In the world of collectibles, few markets have seen as rapid a rise as the sealed video game market. What was once considered a niche interest has blossomed into a full-fledged investment category, drawing in collectors, investors, and gaming enthusiasts alike. But what exactly is the sealed video game market, how did it emerge, and why are people spending millions on games that they may never even play?
The sealed video game market refers to the buying and selling of video games that are still in their original, unopened packaging. This market began to take off in the early 2010s, fueled by nostalgia for the golden age of gaming in the 1980s and 1990s. As retro gaming became more popular, collectors started to see the value in games that had remained untouched since their release.
One of the earliest and most significant milestones in the market was the 2019 auction of a sealed copy of “Super Mario Bros.” for the NES, which sold for over $100,000. This sale caught the attention of the broader collecting community and marked the beginning of what would become a booming market.
The sealed video game market shares many similarities with other collectible markets, such as art, comic books, and rare coins. Like these markets, the value of sealed games is driven by factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance. For example, a sealed copy of “Stadium Events” for the NES, one of the rarest games in existence, can fetch upwards of $50,000.
Fun fact: Did you know that the sealed video game market is sometimes compared to the art market? Just as a painting’s value can skyrocket due to its rarity and the artist’s legacy, so too can a video game’s value rise based on its cultural impact and scarcity.
Another key factor in the rise of the sealed video game market is the role of grading companies like WATA and VGA (Video Game Authority). These companies assess the condition of sealed games and assign them a grade, which can significantly impact their value. A game with a high grade, such as a 9.8 or 10, can command much higher prices than one with a lower grade.
For instance, a sealed copy of “Super Mario 64” graded 9.8 by WATA sold for a staggering $1.56 million in 2021, setting a new record for the most expensive video game ever sold. This sale highlighted the growing demand for top-tier collectibles and solidified the role of grading in the market.
Nostalgia plays a huge role in the sealed video game market. Many buyers are now adults who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s, during the height of the gaming boom. These individuals are often looking to recapture a piece of their childhood, and owning a sealed copy of a beloved game is one way to do that.
Moreover, the rise of video game culture in mainstream media has further fueled interest in this market. Games like “The Legend of Zelda,” “Super Mario Bros.,” and “Pokemon” are not just games; they are cultural icons. The value of these games is not just monetary but also emotional, as they represent a connection to the past.
Fun fact: The original “Super Mario Bros.” for the NES is often considered the “Mona Lisa” of video games, not just because of its historical importance, but also due to its significant impact on the gaming industry as a whole.
The rise of the sealed video game market has also led to the formation of vibrant online communities where collectors can share their passion, trade games, and discuss the latest market trends. One of the most active groups is the Sealed Games Market on Facebook. This group has become a hub for enthusiasts, offering a space to connect with like-minded individuals and stay updated on market developments.
Communities like Sealed Video Games Collectors and Investors play a crucial role in the market, offering advice, support, and a platform for trading games. For anyone looking to get involved in the sealed video game market, joining such a group can be an invaluable resource.
The rise of the sealed video game market: part 1 was originally published in Golisto on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.
Back