10 Iconic ’90s Video Games That Are Now Worth a Fortune
Discover the hidden gold in your old game shelf with these iconic '90s video games that now sell for thousands — if you’ve got the right box and a bit of luck.
- Alyana Aguja
- 3 min read
The ’90s introduced us to some of the greatest video games of all time — but what many don’t know is how valuable those old favorites are now. Sealed or hard-to-find versions of games like Super Mario 64, Chrono Trigger, and Pokémon Red have auctioned for thousands, even millions. Whether you’re a nostalgic gamer or an astute collector, these oldies may be your surprise treasure chest.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) – N64
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One of the most widely regarded all-time great games, Ocarina of Time popularized 3D adventure game play. An early print, sealed copy of the game sold for over $870,000 at auction in 2021. Its rarity and historical significance in mint condition make it a holy grail among collectors.
2. Super Mario 64 (1996) – N64
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This groundbreaking title introduced Mario to 3D and raised the bar for platformers. In July 2021, a WATA 9.8 A++ sealed copy sold for a record high of $1.56 million, the highest sale of any video game at the time. It is valuable both for historical reasons and for its mint packaging.
3. Final Fantasy VII (1997) – PlayStation
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Final Fantasy VII took JRPGs mainstream with cinematic storytelling and emotional depth. Used copies are the norm, but factory-sealed black label versions fetch over $2,000–$3,000. The game’s cultural significance and iconic status continue to drive collectors’ demand.
4. Chrono Trigger (1995) – SNES
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Created by a dream team of developers including Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy creators, Chrono Trigger is an old-school RPG classic. Complete-in-box versions can cost $1,500–$4,000, while sealed ones go well above $10,000. Its artistry and limited production make it rare.
5. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997) – PlayStation
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Now considered to be among the greatest Metroidvania games of all time, it was originally a sleeper hit. The original black label version in sealed condition will fetch $3,000 to $7,000 based on condition. Its genre-bending design and cult following give it high collectible appeal.
6. EarthBound (1995) – SNES
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Even though it bombed financially in the States, EarthBound amassed a huge following over time. Full big-box copies with the guide are often sold for $2,000–$5,000, with sealed ones selling for over $10,000. The game’s weirdness and rarity make it an old-school gem.
7. Pokémon Red & Blue (1998) – Game Boy
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These games ignited a worldwide phenomenon and shaped childhoods worldwide. First-print sealed copies in mint condition can fetch $10,000 to $80,000+ based on grading. Their pop culture value and initial print runs are particularly coveted.
8. Mega Man X3 (1995) – SNES
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Released near the end of the SNES life cycle, Mega Man X3 saw a short run and is now a rare treasure. Loose carts sell for several hundred, but sealed versions have fetched $6,000–$9,000. Its rarity and franchise background increase its worth.
9. Panzer Dragoon Saga (1998) – Sega Saturn
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One of the most scarce RPGs of all time, this Sega Saturn exclusive was printed in North America only in a run of roughly 20,000 copies. Complete copies can sell for $800–$2,000, while sealed ones easily top $5,000. The critical success of the game and production shortage make it a Saturn crown jewel.
10. Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together (1995) – SNES (Japan-only)
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While first released in Japan, this strategy RPG has gained popularity as a coveted gem in other countries. Sealed versions can cost $4,000–$8,000, particularly with English fan translation demand fueling prices. Its rich tactical gameplay and scarcity contribute to it being a treasured import.