Top 5 Retro Consoles Every Collector Should Own
Are you a retro gaming enthusiast looking to start your collection? Or maybe you’re just curious about the history and value of some of the most iconic retro consoles. Either way, you’re in the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 retro consoles worth adding to your collection, along with some fun facts and why they still hold value today.
What Is a Retro Console?
A retro console is an old-school video game system that you can’t find in stores anymore. Typically, these consoles are over 10 years old and bring a wave of nostalgia to many gamers who played them when they were younger. Whether you're a longtime fan or curious about how gaming used to be, retro consoles offer a glimpse into the past and showcase how video games have evolved.
Why Should I Collect Retro Consoles?
Collecting retro consoles is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to relive classic games, explore gaming history, and appreciate how far gaming technology has come. Playing old-school games is still a blast, and these consoles often feature unique designs and gameplay that shaped the gaming world. Plus, collecting lets you uncover hidden gems, building a personal archive of gaming history while appreciating the evolution of video games.
How Do I Start Collecting Retro Consoles?
Starting your retro console collection is flexible and can depend on your personal preferences and budget. Here are some helpful tips to get you started:
Go Online: Sites like eBay, Amazon, and Craigslist have many retro consoles for sale.
Thrift Store Hunt: Check out second-hand shops, flea markets, or garage sales for hidden treasures.
Swap with Fellow Collectors: Join online forums or local groups to trade consoles and get tips from experienced collectors.
How Do I Know if a Retro Console Is Worth Collecting?
Determining if a retro console is worth collecting depends on factors like rarity, condition, popularity, and interest. Here are a few ways to evaluate if a console is worth the investment:
Do Some Homework: Research online to see what other collectors are paying for the console and which ones are in demand.
Check Reviews: Read feedback from other gamers and collectors to gauge the console's reputation and overall appeal.
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Released in 2004, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s first handheld console. It made waves with its sleek design and innovative features. It was the first handheld to use an optical disc format, and the Universal Media Disc (UMD) was specially created for the PSP to handle both games and movies. The PSP sold over 80 million units globally and continues to be a favorite for collectors.
Why Collect It:
The PSP’s iconic design, a large library of games, and the ability to play movies make it a standout in any collection.
Fun Facts:
The PSP was the first handheld console to offer Wi-Fi, allowing users to play online and download content.
It had a web browser and could even play movies and music from UMDs or downloaded files.
A GPS add-on was available for certain games like Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker.
Nintendo Wii
Released in 2006, the Wii changed the way we think about gaming with its innovative motion controls. This console appealed to a wide audience, from casual gamers to families, and sold over 100 million units worldwide. First-party titles like Super Mario Galaxy and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess made it an instant classic.
Why Collect It:
The Wii’s groundbreaking motion controls and huge collection of family-friendly games make it a valuable piece for collectors.
Fun Facts:
The Wii’s original code name was “Revolution.”
Wii Sports, a bundled game, helped the console become a cultural phenomenon.
The Wii Remote, or “Wiimote,” could detect movement in three dimensions.
Nintendo GameCube
Nintendo’s GameCube, released in 2001, marked the company’s shift from cartridges to optical discs. It stood out for its portable size and built-in handle, making it easy to transport. The GameCube boasts a library filled with iconic games like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and Super Smash Bros. Melee.
Why Collect It:
The GameCube’s unique design, impressive lineup of first-party games, and nostalgic value make it a top pick for collectors.
Fun Facts:
The GameCube isn’t exactly a cube! Its dimensions aren’t perfectly even.
Holding the “Z” button during startup activates a hidden sound effect.
It uses smaller game discs, unlike the full-size DVDs other consoles adopted at the time.
Nintendo DS
The Nintendo DS revolutionized handheld gaming with its dual-screen layout and touchscreen, which was a first for consoles at the time. Released in 2004, the DS became an instant hit with casual gamers and families, boasting an extensive library of games such as Mario Kart DS, Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, and New Super Mario Bros.
Why Collect It:
The DS’s innovative design and massive game library make it one of Nintendo’s most successful and desirable handhelds for collectors.
Fun Facts:
The DS was originally called “City Boy” to appeal to young adults commuting in urban areas.
Neal Mueller and Chris Grubb took their DS to the top of Mt. Everest, and it worked perfectly under extreme conditions.
DS Download Stations in stores allowed gamers to try demos of upcoming games.
PlayStation 3 (PS3)
The PS3 was released way back in 2006, and it was Sony's third home console. It was cool because it was the first console to use Blu-ray discs, so you could play higher-quality games and watch incredible movies. The PS3 had some great games, like Uncharted 2: Among Thieves and The Last of Us. Nowadays, collectors are all over it because it has a unique design and an impressive library of games, and it is Sony's 3rd most successful console.
Fun Facts About The PS3
The Air Force Research Laboratory built the 33rd most powerful supercomputer in the world using the PlayStation 3 networked together.
The PS3 was first announced at the E3 convention in 2005 and finally hit shelves in Japan on November 11, 2006, and in North America on November 17
PCMag, Reddit, YouTube, YouTube, The New York Times (Wirecutter)