Unveiling the NES Treasure Trove: The Most Expensive and Rare Nintendo NES Games
In the world of retro gaming, few consoles hold as much allure and nostalgia as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). With its iconic gray box and a plethora of timeless classics, the NES remains a cornerstone of gaming history. Yet, nestled within its vast library are gems that stand out for their rarity and commanding prices in the collector's market. Let's embark on a journey through the hallowed halls of NES collecting to uncover the most coveted and expensive titles that make enthusiasts' hearts race with excitement.
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In this post we will not be mentioning values as they fluctuate daily and overtime will be different. Just be aware that these games are very valuable and when you are out looking for NES games you should keep an eye out for any of these. This list is only for licensed Nintendo NES titles. So no unlicensed titles, championship cartridges, promotional, prototypes, homebrews or anything like that. Just games that you could have gone into a store at one point in time and bought.
1. Stadium Events: Originally released by Bandai as "Stadium Events" before Nintendo rebranded it as "World Class Track Meet," this fitness game commands astronomical prices due to its limited release and subsequent rarity.
2. Little Samson: A critically acclaimed action platformer released by Taito late in the life of the NES, in 1992, known for its challenging gameplay and charming aesthetics, which contributes to its high demand among collectors.
3. Flintstones: Surprise at Dinosaur Peak: Released at the end in the NES's lifespan by Taito in 1994, this platformer is scarce due to its limited production and only being a Blockbuster rental exclusive.
4. Power Blade 2: The sequel to the popular action platformer, this game saw a limited release towards the end of the NES's lifecycle, contributing to its rarity and commanding high prices among collectors.
5. Panic Restaurant: Another Taito gem, known for its challenging gameplay and whimsical premise, this platformer is highly sought after by collectors for its rarity and nostalgic appeal.
6. Bonk's Adventure: Originally released for the TurboGrafx-16, the NES port of this classic action platformer is exceedingly rare and commands premium prices among collectors.
7. Zombie Nation: A unique shooter released by Meldac in 1991, notable for its bizarre premise and gameplay mechanics, which have contributed to its status as a sought-after collector's item.
8. Kid Klown in Night Mayor World: Developed by Kemco and released in 1993, this platformer stands out for its colorful graphics and challenging gameplay, making it a prized possession for collectors.
9. Bubble Bobble Part 2: The sequel to the popular arcade game, this Taito platformer is scarce due to its late release and limited availability, contributing to its high demand among collectors.
10. Cowboy Kid: Released by Romstar in 1992, this Wild West-themed action game is rare and highly sought after by collectors for its unique setting and gameplay.
11. Dragon Fighter: Developed by Natsume and released in 1992, this action game is rare and prized by collectors for its challenging gameplay and distinctive art style.
12. Wacky Races: Based on the classic Hanna-Barbera cartoon, this platformer released by Atlus in 1992 is rare and sought after by collectors for its nostalgic charm and limited availability.
13. Snow Brothers: A cult classic arcade port released by Capcom in 1991, this action game is highly prized by collectors for its addictive gameplay and rarity.
14. Gun-Nac: Developed by Compile and released in 1991, this shoot 'em up game is rare and sought after for its fast-paced action and colorful graphics.
15. Sword Master: Released by Activision in 1992, this action game is rare and prized by collectors for its challenging gameplay and atmospheric visuals.
16. Chip and Dale Rescue Rangers 2: Another Capcom masterpiece, this late release platformer is scarce and commands high prices among collectors for its gameplay and nostalgic appeal.
17. Mighty Final Fight: A spin-off of the popular Final Fight series, this Capcom beat 'em up game is rare and highly sought after for its unique art style and gameplay mechanics.
18. Jetsons Cogswell's Caper: Based on the beloved animated series, this platformer released by Taito in 1992 is rare and sought after for its nostalgic charm and limited availability.
19. Duck Tales 2: The sequel to the beloved platformer, this Capcom game is rare and sought after for its late release and relative scarcity.
20. Wayne's World: Developed by Radical Entertainment and released by THQ in 1993, this game is rare and highly sought after by collectors for its tie-in with the popular comedy film franchise.
These 20 NES games represent the cream of the crop in terms of rarity and value in the collector's market. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, these titles embody the enduring appeal and legacy of the NES era. So, if you ever come across one of these elusive treasures in your gaming adventures, consider yourself fortunate – for you hold a piece of gaming history in your hands.