What's the rarest console ever?

The rarest console ever is subjective and depends on various factors like limited editions, production runs, and condition. However, several rare consoles stand out due to their limited release or production errors. Here are some of the most notorious rare consoles:

1. Nintendo PlayStation (also known as the "Super NES PlayStation")

• Rarity: Only one unit was ever produced.
• Story: This prototype console was developed in the early 1990s as a collaboration between Sony and Nintendo to create a PlayStation for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). Due to a falling out between the companies, the project was scrapped, and only one prototype was made.
• Current Value: In 2020, this one-of-a-kind unit was sold for around $360,000 at auction.
• More Info: Nintendo PlayStation

2. Nintendo World Championships 1990 Cartridge

• Rarity: 26 gold cartridges were made.
• Story: The Nintendo World Championships in 1990 featured a unique cartridge that was used during the competition. Only 26 gold versions of this cartridge were made and given to the top players. The cartridge contains a modified version of Super Mario Bros. and other NES games.
• Current Value: Depending on the condition, these can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
• More Info: Nintendo World Championships 1990

3. Atari 2600 "Red Box" Prototype

• Rarity: Only 1 unit is known to exist.
• Story: The Atari 2600 Red Box prototype was a test model that never made it to mass production. It is one of the rarest items in gaming history and was kept in the private collection of an Atari employee.
• Current Value: This prototype has fetched over $30,000 in auctions.
• More Info: Atari 2600 Red Box

4. The Gold Sega Saturn (Japan)

• Rarity: Only 1 console was made.
• Story: To celebrate the launch of the Sega Saturn in Japan, Sega created a gold-plated version of the console. Only one was produced and it was given away as a prize for a special promotion. The winner of the prize was an individual who was randomly selected.
• Current Value: The gold Saturn has been valued at around $30,000 or more.
• More Info: Sega Saturn

5. The Neo Geo Gold Console

• Rarity: Limited to 50 units.
• Story: The Neo Geo Gold Console was released in the late 1990s as a premium edition of the already expensive Neo Geo console. Only 50 units were made, and each was hand-painted with gold trim.
• Current Value: The value of this console varies, but it can go for upwards of $25,000 in pristine condition.
• More Info: Neo Geo

6. Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) 20th Anniversary Edition

• Rarity: Limited edition, only 12,300 units were produced.
• Story: To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the original PlayStation, Sony released a special edition of the PS5 in 2015. The console features a custom color scheme of grey, black, and silver, reminiscent of the original PlayStation’s design.
• Current Value: This console can fetch up to $20,000 depending on its condition.
• More Info: PlayStation 5 20th Anniversary

7. The 3DO "M2" Console (Prototype)

• Rarity: Only 1-2 units are known to exist.
• Story: The 3DO M2 was a successor to the original 3DO console, but it was never released to the public. It was developed in the mid-1990s and was only shown to select industry insiders. The prototypes have become incredibly rare.
• Current Value: These prototypes can fetch up to $30,000.
• More Info: 3DO

Honorable Mentions:

1. Apple Pippin: Apple's foray into the gaming console market was short-lived, and the Pippin is a rare collector's item today.
2. Virtual Boy Limited Edition: A very limited release of the Virtual Boy with a different color scheme, making it more collectible.
3. Famicom "Disk System" Prototype: Only a handful of prototype Famicom Disk Systems were made and are highly sought after by collectors.

How to Find Rare Consoles:

• Online Auctions: Sites like eBay often have rare gaming consoles for auction, though prices can be inflated.
• Specialist Collectors Websites: Websites that cater to rare or vintage gaming consoles often list hard-to-find systems.
• Retro Gaming Stores: Some stores specialize in rare or limited edition gaming hardware.
• Gaming Conventions: Events like PAX or Retro Gaming Expo might have rare console vendors or collectors showing off their prized possessions.

In Conclusion:

The rarest consoles in the world are usually limited-run prototypes, special editions, or forgotten gems that never made it to full production. Their rarity and historical significance often drive their prices into the tens of thousands of dollars. If you're looking to own one, it’s best to keep an eye on specialized collectors’ markets, as well as online auctions.