Retro Video Game Console Cost

Typical costs:

• Generally, older systems -- which are often harder to find in good working condition -- are more expensive than retro game systems that were discontinued more recently. For example, original Nintendo Entertainment Systems (which were discontinued in 1994) tend to be more expensive than GameCube systems (which were discontinued in 2006).
• Nintendo's home game systems from the past three decades are readily available through online auctions and retro video game shops. The Nintendo Entertainment System costs $30 -$200 for a used model, with the price varying based on the condition of the console and how many games and accessories are included. The successor, the Super Nintendo, sells used for $25 -$150, depending on condition and bundled accessories and games. The Nintendo 64 costs $30 -$200 for a used unit. The Nintendo GameCube costs about $20 for a used console, primarily because they were the most recent Nintendo home system to be discontinued and still are readily available. The NES and the SNES were two of the most popular game systems ever, and that popularity continues today.
• Nintendo's handheld retro gaming consoles are also available through various online retro gaming locations. The Game Boy Advance generally sells for $30 -$35. More recent models, like the Game Boy Advance SP cost about $50 and the Game Boy Micro costs about $60.
• Aside from Nintendo, there are several other consoles made by manufacturers such as Sega and Sony. The Sega Genesis, which was popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s, sells for $20 -$80 for used or refurbished consoles. The PlayStation 2, which cemented the Sony platform as a real competitor, sells for $25-$200.
• Retro gaming outlets such as DK Oldies^[1] also sell new NES-compatible game systems such as Yobo Group's FC Twin console^[2] , Retrobit Duo^[3] systems or Hyperkin's Retron^[4] systems. The NES-compatible systems work with any original NES game but are made from new components. They look and function similarly to the original NES console, and occasionally are packaged with an assortment of games^[5] , depending on the retailer. These systems typically sell for $30 -$70.
• Some retro systems are still available factory-sealed from some collectors, vendors and online auction sites. These consoles typically start at hundreds of dollars; many can be purchased for $500-$3,000+, depending on the condition of the packaging, console edition (special and collector's editions cost more), and which accessories and games are bundled in the package.

• Most retro video game consoles were packaged with the console itself, a power cord, a TV-hookup, a game controller, and occasionally a game or additional access. Used game consoles are often not sold in original packaging and are rarely in the same condition. Many game consoles are sold refurbished or reconditioned and come with similar game components as the initial bundle.

• Games and accessories for retro gaming systems generally cost $2 -$50. Most popular titles are available for $5 -$20. Games for systems that are more than 25 years old, such as the original NES, can cost slightly more.

• Used game stores such as GameStop allow customers to trade in unwanted games for store credit on future purchases or cash. Typically, the store credit choice nets a higher return on trade-ins.

1.  www.dkoldies.com/Nintendo-NES-Systems-s/90.htm
2.  www.yobogroup.com/main/systems/
3.  retrobitgames.com/retroduo.html
4.  hyperkin.com/retro-gaming/nintendo-nes-game-console.html/
5.  www.dkoldies.com/New-NES-Systems-s/323.htm

Today's Featured Cost Articles

Need an alternative way to stay warm this winter? Try a pellet stove. According to Consumer Reports, November is a good time to buy baby products, like playpens. November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Change the batteries on the smoke alarm the same time you set the clocks back for Daylight Savings. After eating all that candy, is it time to see your dentist?

About CostHelper

CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.

CostHelper Community

Power Washing Paid: 280.00 Highly recommended.Jerry came and gave a free estimate. They pressure washed my walkway and driveway which is nice size and patio area. Did a fantastic job... [more] -John Anderson Pressure Washing Cost Married license Paid: 42.00 We getting married... [more] -Christina battles Marriage Certificate Cost annual physical Paid: 160.00 annual physical, did routine check, I ask about some cancer screenings, did some blood work, went back a week later. told me I was fine... [more] - Annual Physical Cost Neuter mix breed male puppy Paid: 580.00 Just got this estimate for my scheduled procedure this week. So glad I looked here. It does include an overnight stay but this just sounds exorbitant... [more] -Florida Pup Dog Spay or Neuter Cost Snake problem Paid: 0.00 Good smack with a shovel problems solved... [more] - Snake Removal Cost Extraction & Bone graft Paid: 4200.00 12 teeth (upper) extracted. Felt pain of every tooth being pulled. Worse Dental experience ever. Had Novocain and Laughing gas. Told dentists I was in pain and she just kept shooting more Novocain into my gums. Told a total of 5 hours... [more] -denydisco3 Dental Bone Graft Cost