The Rarest Console Ever: Exploring the Rarity and Value of Retro Gaming Systems
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When it comes to retro gaming consoles, collectors and enthusiasts often seek the rarest pieces in the market. These consoles aren't just about nostalgic gameplay; they represent a piece of history in the gaming world, often marked by limited production, unique features, or even a brief moment of innovation. But what makes a console rare? What is the rarest gaming console ever created, and why does it have such immense value? In this blog, we'll dive into some of the rarest consoles ever made, why they are so coveted, and explore the one that stands out as the rarest of them all.
What Makes a Console Rare?
Before we get into the rarest consoles, it's important to understand what makes a console rare. Here are some factors that contribute to rarity:
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Limited Production: If only a few units of a console were produced, it immediately becomes rare. This could be due to a short production run, limited edition releases, or even failed console launches.
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Unreleased or Prototype Models: Some of the rarest consoles are those that never saw a commercial release or were developed as prototypes but never made it to market.
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Special Editions: Consoles released as part of a promotion, anniversary, or as a custom edition for specific games or events often become rare over time.
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Historical Significance: Consoles that played an important role in shaping the gaming industry, even if they were short-lived, are often considered rare due to their historical impact.
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Unique Features: Consoles that offered unique technology or features ahead of their time can be considered rare because of the innovation they represented.
Rare Consoles That Stood the Test of Time
There have been several consoles over the years that have gained a reputation for being rare, valuable, and difficult to find. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Nintendo PlayStation (SNES-CD)
The Nintendo PlayStation is arguably one of the rarest consoles in gaming history. Developed as a collaboration between Nintendo and Sony in the early '90s, the console was meant to be an add-on for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), allowing for CD-based games. However, the partnership was short-lived, and the project was canceled before it could reach the market.
Only around 200 prototypes were made, and most of them were destroyed when the project was canceled. In 2020, one of these rare prototypes was auctioned off for $360,000, setting a record for the most expensive gaming console ever sold at that time. Its rarity comes from both its limited production and its significant historical value, as it represents the birth of Sony's gaming division, which would later develop the PlayStation.
Read More: Nintendo PlayStation Prototype - Wikipedia
2. The Nintendo World Championships 1990 Cartridge
While not a console per se, the Nintendo World Championships 1990 cartridge is one of the rarest pieces of gaming hardware ever made. This cartridge was used in a series of competitions across the United States in 1990. There were only 116 cartridges made, and they were distributed among the winners and some notable figures in the gaming community.
These cartridges were designed to be used in a custom game that combined segments from three popular NES titles: Super Mario Bros., Rad Racer, and Tetris. Today, these cartridges can fetch prices of around $20,000 to $30,000 on the rare occasion one comes up for sale.
Read More: Nintendo World Championships - Wikipedia
3. The Sega Neptune
The Sega Neptune was an early 1990s console that combined the Sega Genesis and Sega 32X into a single unit. Although it was never officially released, there were prototype units created, making it one of the rarest consoles from Sega.
The Neptune was essentially a hybrid console that allowed players to enjoy both Genesis and 32X games. It was showcased at the 1994 Consumer Electronics Show but was eventually canceled in favor of the Sega Saturn. Only a handful of prototype units were made, and the console remains an enigma in Sega's history.
Price: A prototype of the Sega Neptune can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, with an average sale price of $15,000 to $20,000 for a unit in good condition.
Read More: Sega Neptune - Wikipedia
4. The Atari 2600 "Cheetah" Console
The Atari 2600 "Cheetah" is one of the rarest versions of the iconic Atari 2600 console. Released in the early 1980s, only 100 units were made with a special design. These limited-edition units were sold at a higher price and are now regarded as some of the most valuable pieces of Atari memorabilia.
The "Cheetah" Atari 2600 features a distinctive cheetah print pattern, which makes it stand out from the traditional models. Because of the limited production run, these consoles have become highly sought after by collectors.
Price: The price for a rare Cheetah Atari 2600 can range from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on its condition and packaging.
Read More: Atari 2600 - Wikipedia
5. The Neo Geo Gold System
The Neo Geo Gold System is another rare console, with only 50 units produced. Released in 1991 by SNK, the Neo Geo was known for its high-quality arcade games that were playable at home. However, due to its high price point (around $650 for the console alone), it never achieved widespread commercial success.
The Gold edition was a special version of the Neo Geo that came with a golden-colored casing, making it one of the most sought-after consoles for collectors. Despite its short lifespan, the Neo Geo continues to hold a special place in gaming history, particularly for its incredible library of classic arcade games.
Price: The Neo Geo Gold System can fetch upwards of $50,000 depending on its condition and rarity.
Read More: Neo Geo - Wikipedia
The Rarest Console Ever
Out of all the rare consoles, the Nintendo PlayStation Prototype takes the crown as the rarest console ever made. With only around 200 prototypes produced, it was destined for a canceled collaboration between Nintendo and Sony, and it holds immense historical significance for both gaming companies. As one of the most expensive consoles ever sold, it has become a holy grail for collectors and a symbol of a "what could have been" moment in gaming history.
Conclusion
The world of rare gaming consoles is filled with fascinating pieces of history, each with its own unique story. Whether it's the Nintendo PlayStation, the Neo Geo Gold, or the Sega Neptune, these consoles capture the essence of the early gaming era and the technological ambitions of their respective creators. While these rare consoles can come with hefty price tags, they serve as valuable collector’s items that continue to fuel the passions of retro gaming enthusiasts.
For more information on gaming consoles, check out some of the Wikipedia pages we’ve linked throughout the post, or join the conversation on Reddit to discuss these rare gems further!
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