Video Games — Auction Preview by Brett Weiss

The Nintendo NES tends to overshadow other consoles in many of our video game sales, which is understandable, but let’s not forget about the mighty Sega Genesis. The console is home to a ton of favorites, including Sonic the Hedgehog, Golden Axe, and Streets of Rage, to name just a few.

In our upcoming April 4 Ages of Sega Showcase Auction, we’ve got some great games for the system, including some classics and as well as some hidden gems that we’re incredibly excited about. Here are five that make us want to yell, “Sega!”

Death Duel – Wata 9.6 A++ Sealed, Genesis Razorsoft 1992 USA.

This first-person shooter was so far ahead of its time that it’s totally mind-boggling. And even a little bit scary! Released during an era of cute platformers and pre-dating Doom and Mortal Kombat, Death Duel was visceral and violent, featuring blood and dismemberment. Plus, a scantily clad female would frequently appear and dish out such text-based advice as, “Turn him into maggot fodder” and “Kick his asteroids.” This is just our second time offering this rare, edgy, highly unusual (for the era) game.

Mutant League Football – Wata 9.2 B Sealed [Trading Cards Included], Genesis Electronic Arts 1993 USA.

Mutant League Football reimagines gridiron battles with its perilous fields and player fatalities, injecting fantasy and mayhem into the classic sport. Utilizing the John Madden Football ’93 engine, it blends traditional gameplay with fantastical elements, creating an experience that’s both familiar and wildly original. Its popularity has soared among collectors, with sealed copies being prized possessions. The game inspired both a sequel, Mutant League Hockey, and an animated series, cementing its status in gaming and pop culture. It remains a must-own for fans of extreme and unconventional sports titles.

Skeleton Krew – CGC 9.2 B+ Sealed, Genesis Front Street Publishing 1995 USA.

Offered here at Heritage Actions for the very first time, Skeleton Krew is a hidden gem that lets players select from three different warriors, each outfitted with bombs and mutant-blasting weaponry. The action evokes such run-and-gun games as Robotron: 2084 and Ikari Warriors, but jumping and an isometric viewpoint set it apart from the pack. Also cool is the wicked skeleton box art, which reminds us of the work of such comic book artists as Simon Bisley and Glen Fabry. The game was never released in Japan or Asia, adding to its desirability as an exclusive collectible.

Rocket Knight Adventures – Wata 9.8 B+ Sealed [10-Digit UPC], Genesis Konami 1993 USA.

Rocket Knight Adventures was directed and co-designed by Nobuya Nakazato, the visionary developer behind such Contra titles as The Alien Wars, Hard Corps, and Shattered Soldier. The game introduces players to Sparkster, an opossum knight armed with a rocket pack and sword, navigating through richly detailed levels from forests to castles. Despite its quality—excellent graphics, gameplay, and sound—it’s nowhere near as well-known as a game like Sonic the Hedgehog. In fact, it’s fairly obscure and very hard to find in today’s collector’s market.

Truxton – Wata 9.6 A+ Sealed, Genesis Sega 1989 USA.

On a system with a ton of great shoot-’em-ups, Truxton is one of the best. It’s also in high demand as a collectible for shooter fans as well as Genesis completists. An early release for the console, the game has players piloting their Super Fighter ship over eight different asteroids, firing away at aliens, turret guns, anti-aircraft guns, meteors, storehouses, energy buoys, and other enemies and obstacles. There are three types of standard weapons, including the titular Truxton Beam, as well as an incredibly cool Destroyer Bomb shaped like a giant skull. Adapted from the 1988 Toaplan arcade game, it includes a feature not found in the original: rapid fire, which really saves wear on the thumbs.

Bidding is underway—good luck!

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Video Games — Auction Preview by Heritage Editorial

VALARIE’S PICKS

Valarie Spiegel
Managing Director, Video Games
ValarieS@HA.com
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261
1-800-872-6467 Ext. 1994

1. Super Mario Bros. – VGA 90+ NM+/MT Unopened [Barcode, FF Logo, Later Production], Famicom Nintendo 1985 JPN

My appreciation for the Famicom Super Mario Bros. stems from its essential role in the history of one of my, and many others’, favorite video game franchises-the eponymous “Mario Bros.” series. Super Mario Bros. for the Famicom debuted several months prior to the NES version in the US, establishing it as the original incarnation of the game. Unopened copies are a rare find, especially in its exceptional, practically factory-fresh condition. We have submitted a lot of games to VGA, and I can attest how incredibly difficult it is for a game to achieve this grade. This is especially true for games that were manufactured without a plastic seal because they are more prone to the elements. I see this as a timeless artifact, emblematic of the franchise’s profound influence on our collective global culture.

2. Peter Bollinger Gex Panasonic 3DO Video Game Original Box Art (Crystal Dynamics, 1995)

Original video game art is an incredibly rare find in video game collectibles. It’s especially exciting when a piece of art from a series that resonated with many people surfaces. The original box art for Gex for the Panasonic 3DO (and PlayStation) is one of my favorite video game original art lots we’ve had the opportunity to offer. Seriously. Maybe I’m just a Gex fangirl, but I have always found the game deeply charming and funny. To whoever ends up winning this lot-I’m sincerely jealous (but I promise I’m still happy for you!).

3. Ultima: Escape From Mt. Drash – Condition: VG CIB, Commodore Vic-20 Sierra On-Line 1983 USA

For me, the allure of this game was mostly due to the level of detective work that was necessary to verify its authenticity amidst the controversies of counterfeit versions in recent years. Learning everything I have about this game in the past couple of months was an incredibly rewarding journey for me. Each component of this game, from its box to the cassette, manual, and registration card, has undergone meticulous verification, and all components align with the characteristics of known, genuine copies leaving no doubt of its authenticity in my mind.

EVAN’S PICKS

Evan Masingill
Consignment Director, Video Games
Read past blog posts
EvanM@HA.com
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261
1-800-872-6467 Ext. 1977

4. Del Thompson Ghoul Patrol Super Nintendo Video Game Original Box Art (JVC, 1994)

One of my favorite parts of this job is seeing one-of-a-kind items like original video game art. Video Game artwork is an emerging area of collecting, and it has been gaining popularity over the last few years. Collectors seeking to participate in this hobby will quickly find that many video game covers are either lost to time or part of private collections. Final pieces, like this beautiful Ghoul Patrol cover, are rarely offered for public sale, and once they sell, they’re unlikely to reemerge.

5. Atari 2600 Console – VGA 85 NM+ Sealed [Black Console, Square Box, with Pac-Man & Combat], 2600 Atari 1983 USA

Longtime collectors know that most video game consoles were manufactured without a seal on the box, making this unopened 40-year-old pre-NES console quite rare! This particular example is unique because the box is sealed by the original Montgomery Ward branded tape that attached the receipt to the box. The receipt shows this console was purchased in 1984, during the transitional phase between the 1983 video game crash and just a year before the NES’s groundbreaking 1985 launch. This sleek model is colloquially known as the “Vader” because of its black casing, which omitted the earlier faux wood-grained design.

6. Metroid – CGC 9.6 CIB [Hangtab, First Production], NES Nintendo 1987 USA

When this game came to our office ungraded, I knew it would receive a record grade the moment I held it. The condition of the box was genuinely stunning and uncharacteristically clean for a 37-year-old NES game. Even though this game is opened, its 9.6 box grade indicates it is in better shape than most sealed copies! CIB collecting has been gaining popularity, as evidenced by our record CIB sales. Collectors recognize that early-NES games as mint as this are rarely found.

BRETT’S PICKS

Brett Weiss
Lead Cataloger, Video Games
Read past blog posts
BrettW@HA.com
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261
1-800-872-6467 Ext. 1348

7. Espial – CGC 8.0 NS Unopened, 2600 Tigervision 1984 USA

As a hardcore video game collector and longtime Atari 2600 fan-I began playing the system in 1977, the year it came out-I have amassed a huge collection of games for the console. I haven’t counted recently, but it’s probably around 300 or so titles. One game I’m still lacking is Espial, a rarity reminiscent of such classic shooters as Xevious and The Dreadnaught Factor, but not as well-known. Released in 1984, after the industry crash in North America, the game was produced in low quantities, hence its scarcity. I would be thrilled to simply add a cart-only copy of Espial to my collection, but the unopened example we’re offering would truly take my library of Atari 2600 games-or pretty much anyone else’s-to the next level.

8. Alien 3 – VGA 95 Mint Uncirculated Sealed [Oval SOQ R], NES LJN 1993 USA

You often hear about great movies inspiring bad video games. The most famous example is probably E.T. the Extraterrestrial for the Atari 2600. But what about a truly awful movie as the basis for an awesome video game? It does happen from time to time, as with Alien 3 for the NES. While your mileage may vary with David Fincher’s addition to the Alien film franchise, I can’t stand it, but I LOVE the video game it inspired. Gamers guide Lt. Ripley through six stages of the Florina 161 prison colony, using a flamethrower and other weapons to battle the titular creepy creatures. Atmospheric visuals and a nice mix of exploration and intense action make it one of the best movie-based games of the era. The VGA 95 Mint Uncirculated copy we’re offering is so pristine it’s scary.

9. Justice League Task Force – Wata 9.8 A+ Sealed, SNES Acclaim 1995 USA

Released the same year as Marvel’s Superheroes for the PlayStation, Justice League Task Force was overlooked to some degree back in the day, but it holds the honor of being the first-ever fighting game featuring DC Comics heroes (and villains). Loosely based on the comic book series of the same name, the game pits the likes of Flash, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, etc. against one another in a series of one-on-one battles. Curiously, Green Lantern didn’t make the cut, but the equally emerald, yet less popular Green Arrow did. Regardless, this is a fascinating fighting game that would absolutely rock the shelves of any video game or comic book collector, thanks to the awesome cover art, which epitomizes DC Comics of the 1990s. The Super NES version of the game was co-developed by Blizzard Entertainment, adding to its value for fans of that legendary company.

BRIAN’S PICKS

Brian Nocenti
Consignment Director, Video and Trading Card Games
BNocenti@HA.com
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261
1-800-872-6467 Ext. 1876

10. Game Boy Advance SP Console – VGA 95 Mint Unopened [Charizard Edition, Japanese Version], GBA Nintendo 2004 JPN

The Game Boy Advance SP was a big hit, thanks in part to its front-lit screen and compact design. However, finding a sealed special edition today can be a tough task. This limited version was only available through Pokémon Center stores, making it even more special. In Japan, seven variants of this console were released, representing different Pokémon characters, with Charizard and Rayquaza being the most desirable. Finding unopened consoles of these rare releases is extremely difficult. Don’t let this opportunity to own this stunning piece of Pokémon history go up in flames.

11. Tekken – Wata 9.8 A++ Sealed [Jewel Longbox, Early Production], PS1 Namco 1995 USA

When it comes to PlayStation fighting titles, Tekken is one of the biggest names in the game. The longbox version of Tekken was released in two variants: the large jewel version, which is being offered here, and a cardboard variant. Shortly after the release of the two longbox versions, a CD-style jewel case was used to package the game moving forward, thus making the longbox releases the early production variants for the PS1. Only 102 games were released on PlayStation using the longbox style. I’m sure we will see an epic battle for this game on the auction block.

12. Grand Theft Auto – Wata 9.6 A++ Sealed [Mature Rating on Back, Mid-Production], PS1 Take-Two 1998 USA

The GTA series will go down in history as one of the most controversial franchises ever created. This, folks, is where it all started! Grand Theft Auto was initially released for DOS and Windows in November 1997 and was followed by the PlayStation version in December 1997. The game portrayed a character you could control to commit crimes and wreak havoc throughout the city, if you desired. This sparked a bit of controversy initially and has only continued and accelerated throughout the years, with the release of many sequels. Some even had to be changed from MA rating to Adults Only. This title will be one to watch to ensure no one steals it on auction day.

CIERRA’S PICKS

Cierra Caballero
Associate Video Game Specialist
CierraC@HA.com
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261
1-800-872-6467 Ext. 1348

13. Mighty Morphin Power Rangers – Wata 9.8 A++ Sealed, Game Boy Bandai 1994 USA

“Make my monster grow!” And oh boy, is this copy of Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers a big deal. I grew up watching the series and the movie with my sister. You better believe we jammed to the series and movie soundtracks and joined gymnastics in hopes of becoming Power Rangers ourselves. I am not authorized to say if that dream came true. I still re-watch the series regularly, and I am grateful it got me into the Tokusatsu and martial arts genre. Sadly, I never got to own a Game Boy, but if I did there is no question that I would play this for hours.

14. The Karate Kid – Wata 10.0 A++ Sealed [Oval SOQ TM, Later Production], NES LJN 1987 USA

It’s astonishing that The Karate Kid franchise, despite its iconic status, has inspired so few video games, with just one title based on the original 1984 film. I’m a huge fan of the movies and have been glued to the Cobra Kai television series. With the final season on the horizon and the franchise growing, seeing the NES game in top-tier condition in our Signature Auction floods me with nostalgia from watching the first two films as a kid. Graded Wata 10.0 A++, this copy shows no mercy!

15. Mario Power Merchandising 1990 Black Corduroy Jacket [Size Large], Nintendo 1990

16. Mario & Yoshi Power Team Black Denim Jacket [Size Medium], Nintendo 1991

Talk about making a “Powerful” statement! I am a massive fan of vintage clothing, so when I saw these two Nintendo employee jackets in our Signature auction, I was extremely impressed with their quality. Getting to wear them even for a second for our Instagram reel was a treat, and I can attest they are incredibly comfortable. My favorite part, of course, are the logos of Mario and Yoshi on the back!

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Step into a world of gaming nostalgia and modern marvels with our March 7 Sixth Generation and Beyond Showcase Auction. This carefully curated selection spans an array of beloved consoles, including the Game Boy Advance, DS, GameCube, Switch, PlayStation 2-5, PSP, Xbox, and Xbox 360, offering something for every type of gamer.

While these titles represent the more contemporary side of our collection, they carry with them an undeniable charm and a touch of nostalgia that resonates deeply with me. Some of these gems have been part of our lives for two decades, entertaining generations of gamers with shared memories and experiences.

So, without further delay, let’s dive into five standout games from our upcoming sale that are sure to rekindle fond memories and perhaps inspire new ones.

1.      Super Mario Bros. (Classic NES Series) – Wata 9.8 A++ Sealed [Multiplayer Printed], GBA Nintendo 2004 USA.

In 2004, Nintendo ingeniously bridged the gap between nostalgia and modern gaming convenience by launching the NES Classic Series for the Game Boy Advance. This initiative saw the re-release of some of Nintendo’s most beloved NES titles, each ported onto individual cartridges. Priced at an accessible $20, these games offered fans a direct pipeline to a golden age of gaming.

Among the titles, Super Mario Bros. stood out as a shining example of timeless game design and universal appeal. While there was some initial grumbling among the gaming community regarding Nintendo’s decision not to release compilation cartridges featuring multiple games, the ability to carry Super Mario Bros. in your pocket quickly turned skeptics into believers. This portable version of the game not only preserved the original’s fantastic gameplay and iconic levels but also introduced the classic adventure to a whole new generation of gamers.

The example we’re offering is about as close to perfect condition-wise as it gets.

2.      Resident Evil 4 – Wata 9.8 A Sealed [GameStop Special Edition SteelBook], GameCube Capcom 2005 USA.

Right from the beginning, Resident Evil 4 was a game-changer. It blew countless gamers away with its innovative gameplay and gripping story. In addition to helping popularize the over-the-shoulder third-person perspective in video games, it was simply an action-packed blast to play. Both critics and gamers couldn’t stop raving about it, putting it on a pedestal as not just the best in the Resident Evil series but as one of the top video games of all time. It quickly gained a reputation as the most thrilling and intuitive entry in the franchise.

As someone who’s been a fan since playing the original Resident Evil on PlayStation and even reviewing Resident Evil 2 for the Nintendo 64 for the late, lamented All Game Guide, I’ve always loved how the series mixes horror and action so well—it’s scary just how good these games are.

My deep appreciation for the series didn’t immediately lead me to buy Resident Evil 4 upon its release. However, everything changed when I stumbled upon the special SteelBook edition at my local GameStop. This wasn’t just any game; it was a treasure for collectors and fans alike, offering not only the unforgettable adventure of Resident Evil 4 but also a stylish, unique presentation.

The opportunity to own such a remarkable piece of gaming excellence was irresistible. It was more than adding a game to my collection—it was a way to commemorate a series that has left a significant mark on the gaming community. Getting my hands on that edition was an easy decision; it was a tribute to the incredible impact and innovation Resident Evil 4 introduced to the world of gaming.

The copy we’re offering is in remarkable shape, especially considering how easy it is for these SteelBook releases to get scratched and dinged.

3.      Super Mario Odyssey – Wata 9.8 A++ Sealed [105882C, Later Production, WATAGraphs – Limited Signing 3 of 25 Charles Martinet], Switch Nintendo 2017 USA.

As a retro game enthusiast, I seldom complete titles on modern consoles due to time constraints. I love big, epic games as much as anyone, but they just take so darned long to finish. Yet, Super Mario Odyssey for the Nintendo Switch is an exceptional case and my favorite game for the console.

Odyssey transports you to a world teeming with life and color. From the Sand Kingdom’s vast deserts to New Donk City’s vibrant streets, each kingdom is a marvel. The game’s innovative capture mechanic, allowing Mario to control anything from a T-Rex to a streetlamp, injects creativity and excitement into every moment. The soundtrack, with its memorable melodies, perfectly complements the adventure.

The game shines with its ingeniously designed puzzles and boss battles, encouraging inventive use of Mario’s abilities. The quest for Power Moons, hidden throughout, adds a layer of rewarding exploration. If you beat the game without collecting all of them, I almost guarantee you’ll want to dive back in and find some more.

Above all, Super Mario Odyssey celebrates the joy of gaming. It honors Mario’s heritage while setting new standards. Nintendo has crafted more than just a game—it’s an immersive journey that epitomizes the magic of video games. Odyssey is not just a must-play; it’s a masterclass in game design, offering an experience every gamer should enjoy.

The copy we’re offering is as close to perfect as the game itself. As a bonus, it’s signed by the voice of Mario himself, Charles Martinet.

4.      Metal Slug 7 – Wata 9.8 A++ Sealed [with Slipcover], DS Ignition Entertainment 2008 USA.

The Metal Slug games were notorious quarter gobblers in the arcades, so I always preferred playing at home. The first game in the main series without an arcade counterpart, Metal Slug 7 is a noteworthy continuation of SNK Playmore’s celebrated run-and-gun franchise. Exclusive to the DS, it upholds the series’ tradition of Contra-style action, challenging gameplay, and distinct hand-drawn art style that has captivated and challenged fans since the original Metal Slug debuted in 1996.

In this installment, players choose from six familiar characters—Marco, Eri, Tarma, Fio, Ralf, and Clark—to take on the perennial antagonist, General Morden, who is back with new alliances and an even more formidable army. Metal Slug 7 retains the classic gameplay mechanics, employing the DS’s D-pad for movement and buttons for shooting, grenade throwing, and melee attacks.

The game cleverly utilizes the DS’s dual screens, with the action displayed on the top and a map on the bottom screen, aiding players in navigating stages and locating POWs (actually, this map isn’t really necessary, but it certainly doesn’t hurt anything). Featuring seven explosive stages, an array of power-ups, and awesome vehicles, the game provides an adrenaline-fueled, old-school experience.

New vehicles to the series include Slug Truck, a modular war machine with upgradable firepower; Slug Gigant, a towering robot armed with a destructive wave cannon; and Slug Gunner, a nimble armored suit with exceptional firepower. Additionally, the inclusion of an 80-mission Combat School mode offers extra challenges and replayability, pushing players to improve their skills and achieve higher ranks.

The copy we’re offering is the only one on Wata’s December 2023 population report, helping make it a collector’s treasure to be sure.

5.      Star Wars: Battlefront – CGC 9.8 A++ Sealed, PS2 LucasArts 2004 USA.

There’s something magical about bonding over video games, especially when it involves a galaxy far, far away. I’ll never forget the day my then-12-year-old son Ryan and I squared off in Star Wars: Battlefront. As we dove into the game, it quickly became apparent that he was the Obi-Wan to my Anakin; he wasn’t just winning, he was teaching me a lesson in humility. It was a playful reminder that sometimes, the student surpasses the master.

The game shines with its conquest-based gameplay and strategic elements like Galactic Conquest. Players dive into the roles of various factions, commanding familiar characters like Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader across vast landscapes. Despite critiques of its limited single-player mode and questionable AI, Battlefront‘s engaging multiplayer experience and the enjoyment of iconic battles have made it stand the test of time.

Star Wars: Battlefront does a great job of bringing the epic Star Wars movie universe to our fingertips. With over 25 vehicles and interactions with native forces, it remains a beloved chapter in the Star Wars saga, capturing the essence of the epic onscreen confrontations that inspired it. Developed by Pandemic Studios and published by LucasArts, it coincided with the Star Wars Trilogy DVD release, marking a significant moment in the saga’s gaming history. It set the stage for its even better sequel, Star Wars: Battlefront II, which my son also conquered (me, not so much).

The example up for auction is the highest-graded copy we’ve ever offered.

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Video Games — Auction Preview by Brett Weiss

Since the dawn of our video game auctions back in early 2019, one truth has emerged: Nintendo reigns supreme in the realms of collectability, unwavering brand loyalty, and the pantheon of iconic characters. Nintendo’s magic casts a wide net, captivating collectors and fans alike, ensuring that games for its consoles consistently perform beyond expectations in our auctions.

We are thrilled to present our upcoming Nintendo Showcase Auction, a curated celebration of both first- and third-party titles across an impressive array of Nintendo’s storied platforms, including the NES, SNES, N64, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance. But it’s not just games we’re excited about – the auction also features an extraordinary collection of memorabilia. Personally, I’m eyeing the Killer Instinct black leather vest—if only it were my size!

Narrowing down the myriad of treasures to a mere five highlights was no small feat, yet here we stand. Below are five gems that are not only rare and desirable but also encapsulate the heart and soul of our auction.

1. Arcade Classic 2: Centipede / Millipede – Wata 9.6 A++ Sealed, Game Boy Nintendo 1995 USA.

The 1981 arcade classic Centipede, programmed by Dona Bailey and Ed Logg, is one of the most famous shooters to ever ingest a quarter. Designed to appeal to a broad demographic, the game has players firing away at a segmented centipede that winds its way down a mushroom-filled screen. A similar sequel, Millipede, followed the next year, upping the ante with, among other features, DDT bombs that players could shoot to destroy all the insects in range of the resultant blast. Both games are included in this compilation title for the Game Boy. While the Game Boy of course lacks trackball control, the cartridge is compatible with the Super Game Boy, letting players add framed backgrounds designed to resemble the original arcade cabinets. This stunning copy of the game is the highest graded out of just three on Wata’s December 2023 population report.

2.      The Lone Ranger – Wata 9.6 A++ Sealed [Oval SOQ R] (The Indiana Collection), NES Konami 1991 USA.

If you could only pick one hidden gem in this sale, for my money it would be The Lone Ranger, a game inspired by the legendary radio, TV, and movie character. Based on the 1981 film, The Legend of the Lone Ranger, this action/adventure title puts players in the role of the masked former Texas Ranger, who must avenge his brother’s death and rescue the president, who has been kidnapped by the evil Butch Cavendish. The game employs a staggering array of genres and viewpoints, from top-down action to light gun shooter to side-scrolling platformer to role-playing adventure. Despite being published by Konami, and despite oozing with quality, the game flew under the radar when it was new in stores. Today, it’s a tough title to track down, especially sealed and in top condition like this one. This copy holds the top grade on Wata’s Population Report for December 2023.

3.      Mario Paint – VGA 80 NM Sealed, SNES Nintendo 1992 USA.

It’s not often that we get the chance to offer a Mario title for the very first time, but that’s exactly what we have here with this sealed copy of Mario Paint. We’ve sold several Display Only boxes for the game previously, but this is our debut copy of the game itself, which comes in a large box to house the bundled Super NES Mouse and Mouse Pad. For creative types, the game made quite the splash back in the day, thanks to a ton of fun features. Gamers could create their own drawings, paintings, animations, and more using a nice variety of brushes, pens, colors, erasers, and other tools. They could even create songs and play an action game called Gnat Attack. Mario Paint was a fairly popular game when it came out, but new-in-the-box copies like the one we’re offering are extremely hard to find today.

4.      Super Nintendo Console – Unused, SNES Nintendo 1991 USA.

The release of the Super NES in 1991 kickstarted what is arguably the most famous, most dramatic console war in the history of the industry. The 16-bit system’s rivalry with the Sega Genesis is the stuff of legend. In fact, there are entire documentaries on the subject. We love both consoles and refuse to take a side, but there’s no doubting just how special it would be to unbox an unused Super NES, hook it up to a CRT television set, and throw down on some Super Mario World. The winner of this lot can do just that. Or, they can keep it in the box and display it as a rare treasure. Either way, this is a can’t-miss item for pretty much anyone who has even heard of Mario – and that’s virtually everyone!

5.      Vintage Killer Instinct Black Leather Medium Vest – SNES (1995).

A nice vest can complement just about any outfit, whether you’re wearing a T-shirt, a button-down shirt, or even a dress. A vintage vest can not only enhance your look, but it can also give you serious fashion cred. What about a rare vest with killer branding? As in Killer Instinct for the Super Nintendo? Off-the-charts cool! This sartorial collector’s item, given to a select few Nintendo employees during the game’s production, is easily one of the most amazing pieces of vintage clothing we’ve seen here in the video game department at Heritage. While I’m going to have to pass on bidding for it myself since I wear a large and not a medium, I’m already super jealous of whoever wins this thing. Imagine strutting around a retro gaming store or convention in this bad boy – priceless!

Browse the Video Games Showcase Auction

These items are merely the tip of the iceberg of our Nintendo 8 to 64-Bit Video Games Showcase Auction. This collection is a nostalgic journey through Nintendo’s groundbreaking moments, from the charming 8-bit era all the way to the immersive 64-bit games that changed the gaming landscape. The sale is perfect for gamers who want to relive those epic gaming moments or collectors looking for that rare find. Think of it as your exclusive invite to celebrate Nintendo’s legendary impact on the industry. So, whether you’re here to simply reminisce or to try and snag a piece of video game history, you’re in for a real treat!

The post Nintendo 8 to 64-Bit Video Games Showcase Auction – March 21 appeared first on Old School Gamer Magazine.

Video Games — Auction Preview by Cierra Caballero

Our December 14^th Power of PlayStation Showcase features a pair of dazzling copies of ParRappa the Rapper, widely considered the first true rhythm game. We’ve got a shiny VGA 90 NM +/MT copy as well as a pristine Wata 9.8 A+ example.

PaRappa has always been ahead of the game, as he is the OG with an out-of-this-world “Cool Ranking!” Since the title essentially created a new genre, the Sony team and even its creator, Masaya Matsuura, didn’t know how to market such a novel idea. Surprisingly, PaRappa the Rapper became an overnight sensation, garnering wide praise in contemporary publications and quickly gaining a cult status, which it has maintained over the years.

Similar to his rap career, PaRappa inspired plenty of copycats and fresh new rhythm game titles, such as Dance Dance Revolution, Guitar Hero, Donkey Konga, Rock Band, Maimai, The Idolmaster, Hatsune Miku: Project Diva, and the musical shooter Music GunGun! 2, among countless others.

PlayStation owners who liked to get their groove on couldn’t resist the funky, fresh beats and freestyle-prowess of PaRappa, and you better believe he got a sequel, PaRappa the Rapper 2, and a guitar-focused spin-off, Um Jammer Lammy. If you complete Lammy’s mission in the latter game, a side-story featuring PaRappa unlocks. You didn’t think PaRappa wouldn’t show up, did you?

PaRappa understood the hustle life and knew he had to break into other avenues outside his music career. In 2001, the PaRappa the Rapper anime series premiered on Fuji TV in Japan with a total of 30 episodes. It featured music written by Masaya Matsuura. Voicing PaRappa was Miyu Irino, known for his role as Haku in Spirited Away and Sora in Kingdom Hearts. Sadly, the anime series ended in 2002, but this didn’t stop PaRappa’s stride as his original game was remastered recently for its 20th Anniversary.

The original PaRappa the Rapper is not only a trendsetter, but it also introduced a beloved character who captured the heart of fans who still rap his songs, wear replicas of his beanie, and groove to his fun beats.

If you’ve ever dreamed of adding a sealed, high-grade copy of ParRappa the Rapper to your collection, or you’ve been told you got bars (meaning you have incredible rapping talent), then our December 14th Power of PlayStation Showcase auction is for you. Remember these lyrics by Eminem: “Look, if you had one shot or one opportunity. To seize everything you ever wanted in one moment. Would you capture it or just let it slip?”

Ask yourself: what would PaRappa do? He would get his bid on and freestyle a cool rap like this:

Get ready for this funky flow! These high-grade beauties will make your collection glow! Show them off to your friends at the Club. They know this rhythm game invented Fun. The sickest flow, wordplay, and bangin’ beats, if the haters don’t believe you, freestyle some flips to end their streak. Raise your “U-Rappin” meter with PaRappa the Rapper, the top rapping dog with the cutest swagger! (mic drop)

Browse all the titles for sale in the 2023 December 14 Power of PlayStation Video Games Showcase Auction.

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I play and collect video games from all eras, but those from my formative years hold a unique, nostalgia-filled spot in my heart. As such, our Pioneers of Home Console Video Games sale is tantalizing. This auction features a veritable treasure trove of games from the ground-breaking second generation of consoles, including the Atari 2600, Intellivision, ColecoVision, and Atari 5200.

Not just limited to these, the sale presents a few delightful wild cards that are bound to excite bidders. Expect to find a pair of Atari Jaguar games, an array of collectibles straight from Japan, and the first three initial issues of the coveted JoyStik magazine, among other fun odds and ends.

My personal collection of retro video games is extensive, yet there are select items in this auction that have thus far eluded me. Here are the top five lots that I’d love to add to my ever-growing gaming display:

Ultra Pong Doubles Console – Sealed, Pong Atari 1977 USA

I discovered video games in 1975, via local arcades and my cousin’s Atari home Pong console, which he got for Christmas that year. He invited me into his room to play the game, and I was mesmerized. Since I was unaware of the Magnavox Odyssey, I assumed you had to go somewhere—an arcade, a skating rink, a pizza parlor—to play video games. I had no idea up until that moment that you could enjoy them at home. This Ultra Pong Doubles unit, which is ultra rare considering it’s sealed, would look ultra-cool on my shelves. Better yet, I would probably open it to play—the four-player compatibility aligns perfectly with my family of four.

Lochjaw – Loose Cartridge, 2600 Apollo 1981 USA

My son is a hardcore Jaws fan and even collects memorabilia related to the classic film. I love the movie as well and have seen it many times. While Lochjaw isn’t an official Jaws tie-in, it does share some dubious history with the cinematic masterpiece. To keep the Jaws copyright holders at bay (so to speak), the publisher changed the game’s name to Shark Attack shortly after release, meaning copies of Lochjaw under the original title are scarce. I own a copy of Shark Attack, but Lochjaw is another story entirely. To paraphrase an iconic line in the film, “I’m gonna need a bigger collection.”

X-Man – Wata 9.4 A Sealed, 2600 Universal Gamex 1983 USA

Confession time: I love sensual book covers and alluring album art. It follows that I enjoy collecting video games that feature provocative box designs. The cover art for X-Man is actually sillier than it is sexy, but that buxom blonde is nevertheless tantalizing—I certainly wouldn’t kick her out of my game room (if I were single, that is). Unfortunately, the game is very hard to find, especially factory-sealed. Fortunately, we do have a beautifully preserved copy in this very auction. Regarding the game itself, it’s an adult maze title that is fairly entertaining for an oddball third-party title. It even includes a sex minigame, decades before God of War.

Rent Wars – Wata 9.2 A+ Sealed, 5200 Atari2600.com 2007 USA

Do any of you remember Atari2600.com? While no longer in operation, it was an awesome website for purchasing boxed video games, and the company would vend its wares at gaming conventions, most notably the late, lamented Classic Gaming Expo in Las Vegas. They even published games, including Rent Wars, which was developed by First Star Software back in 1983 but remained unreleased until 2007, more than 20 years after the Atari 5200 was discontinued. Atari2600.com only produced 100 copies of Rent Wars, meaning there are far more collectors wanting the game than there are copies to go around. We’re offering #16 in the production run, and we have no idea if or when we’ll be able to list another copy.

Superman: The Game – Wata 9.4 A++ Sealed, Atari 400/800, C64 Main Street 1986 USA

There are two games in this sale I want strictly for display purposes as I couldn’t play them, even if they weren’t slabbed. These are Scooby Doo’s Maze Chase, which requires the computer add-on for the Intellivision (I have an Intellivision, but not the computer); and Superman: The Game, which requires a hard drive (I can only play cartridges on my C64 and Atari 800). Superman: The Game gets the edge because I like the Man of Steel even more than the Scooby Gang. I love the game’s box art, with Superman appearing to burst out of the box and the Super Powers logo taking me straight back to the ‘80s, when I collected that awesome line of action figures and other merchandise.

Let us know in the comments which items from this sale you would want in your collection!

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Sony’s original PlayStation is one of the greatest gaming consoles of all time. I love the system’s DualShock controller, evolutionary leaps forward in 3D gaming, and sleek CD format (compatibility with audio CDs was a nice bonus), which offered more memory than cartridges. Selling more than 100 million units, the PS1 changed the industry forever with such iconic releases as Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Final Fantasy VII, PaRappa the Rapper, and Twisted Metal.

Bidding Opens November 16 in the 2023 December 14 Power of PlayStation Video Games Showcase Auction

We have exemplary copies of these and other legendary titles in our December 14 Power of PlayStation Showcase Auction, but it’s time to shine the spotlight on some lesser-known games that deserve more attention. The following five titles are not only obscure but also hard to find in sealed condition, so we have no doubt that many PS1 fans out there need them to fill out their collections.

1.      Barbie: Gotta Have Games – Wata 9.8 A+ Sealed, PS1 Vivendi Universal 2003 USA

With all the hoopla surrounding Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie, it’s the perfect time to hop aboard the pink bandwagon, especially when you’ve got a chance to snag a beauty like this attractive, highly displayable PS1 release. It features eight different games, from DJ Booth to Bubble Machine to Fruit Fallout. Each can be played with Barbie or any of three of her friends. Are you “Kenough” for Barbie: Gotta Have Games? We think so, but only one lucky bidder will walk away with this lot.

2.      Countdown Vampires – CGC 9.8 A+ Sealed, PS1 Bandai 1999 USA

If you like Resident Evil—and who doesn’t!?—check out Countdown Vampires, which plays a lot like the earlier games in the RE series. While it’s been labeled a clone of the survival horror classic, the game does have some key differences, such as a secondary dart gun weapon that can sedate enemies long enough for you to sprinkle “white water” on them, saving them in the process. This is our first time offering Countdown Vampires, and we can’t imagine getting a higher-graded copy any time soon, so creatures of the night as well as PS1 collectors should definitely stake out this lot.

3.      Darkstalkers: The Night Warriors – Wata 9.6 A+ Sealed [Ridged Longbox, Early Production], PS1 Capcom 1996 USA

Darkstalkers was originally slated to be a Universal Monsters game, but no worries, the programmers came up with 10 creatures of their own, including unique takes on such archetypes as the vampire, werewolf, mummy, and even Frankenstein’s monster. There’s a Bigfoot character and a catwoman as well. The graphics are colorful and detailed, making for a very nice-looking game. The fighting action is similar to Capcom’s own Street Fighter II, but the game boasts some new moves, including Air Blocking, Crouch Walking, and Chain Combos. There are only four copies of this longbox variant on Wata’s June 2023 population report, meaning graded examples don’t show up for sale very often.

4.      Gekioh: Shooting King – Wata 9.8 A Sealed, PS1 Natsume 2002 USA

The PlayStation is famous for bringing 3D gaming to the masses, but it has its share of 2D gems as well. One of the latter is Gekioh: Shooting King, a vertical shooter that gets intense to the point where some might call it a “bullet hell” game. It is an enhanced port of Sega’s Shienryu coin-op, but with a variety of quirky game modes, including Pocket, which imitates PocketStation graphics; Comical, which replaces standard sounds with laughter and applause; and Ancient, which has a decidedly retro vibe. There are only five copies of this game on Wata’s June 2023 population report, adding to its allure.

5.      Monkey Magic – VGA 90 NM+/MT Sealed, PS1 Sunsoft 1999 USA

If you’ve only heard of some of the more popular PlayStation platformers, such as Crash Bandicoot and Rayman, might I suggest Monkey Magic? Beyond the likably alliterative title, the game features a nice mix of action and puzzles, and it has rock-solid controls and level design. Unlike the original Rayman, which is brutally difficult, Monkey Magic is magnificently manageable, thanks in part to copious extra lives. The game is based on the anime of the same name, which in turn was based on the Chinese novel, Journey to the West. This is just our third time offering the game, and there aren’t a whole lot of sealed copies floating around out there in the wild, so be advised.

What are some of your favorite hidden gems for the original PlayStation? Let us know in the comments!

Browse all the titles in the 2023 December 14 Power of PlayStation Video Games Showcase Auction

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I’ve been a cataloger here at Heritage Auctions for two years, but this month marks the first time we’ve offered the Super Nintendo version of Mr. Do!, my favorite video game of all time. There are only four copies on Wata’s June 2023 population report, and the game is hard to find in general, especially factory sealed, but we’ve got a gorgeous 9.2 A+ example in our November 30 Nintendo 8 to 64-Bit Video Games Showcase Auction.

Years ago, I had the opportunity to write about Mr. Do! for the late, lamented Game Informer column, “Greatest Game of All Time,” a memorable section of Classic GI.

Here’s that write-up, reprinted for your perusal:

Despite a mere two megs of power and a distinct lack of graphical sophistication, Mr. Do! for the Super NES is sheer gameplay excellence, offering up a killer rendition of the vastly underrated Universal coin-op classic from 1982. Players control a goofy-looking clown as he digs tunnels, gobbles cherries, and throws a magical ball at “creeps” that prowl the ever-changing mazes in hot pursuit of our hero. Near the center of each maze lies a food item, which when eaten brings forth an Alphamonster and his henchmen. Killing enough Alphamonsters can spell out EXTRA, granting players a bonus life.

Occasionally, a sparkling diamond will appear. Gobbling up this goodie is worth 10,000 points and advances the game to the next screen. Level progression otherwise requires eating all the cherries, spelling out EXTRA, or killing all the monsters.

Mr. Do! is often dismissed as a poor man’s Dig Dug by philistines of the gaming world. While it was indeed inspired by that great game, it’s an excellent title in its own right. Throwing a ball at enemies may not be as satisfying as blowing them up with a pump, but watching helplessly as the ball bounces around the tunnels, missing the enemies when you desperately need the ball back, is excruciating—in an exhilarating kind of way. More importantly, spelling out EXTRA adds an additional element to the action, and the “pushable” apples in Mr. Do! are more versatile than the “unpushable” rocks in Dig Dug.

Mr. Do! is strategically diverse and endlessly entertaining, and it has smooth difficulty progression, meaning anyone can play. In later levels, it takes tremendous skills to survive, but the game never gets frustrating. Upping one’s high score to the nth degree can be a years-long objective.

So, what makes this version superior to the arcade original? Nothing less than a two-player Battle Mode that pits one clown against another! Thus, Mr. Do! for the Super Nintendo gets my vote as the Greatest Video Game of All Time.

Browse all the video games for sale in the November 30 Nintendo 8 to 64-Bit Video Games Showcase Auction.

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Video Games — Auction Preview by Brett Weiss

Offering several Atari 2600 games in our November 3-4 Signature Auction warms my heart. As the Lead Video Game Cataloger with Heritage, and as a gamer who enjoys all eras, I love “everything from Atari to Xbox,” as the saying goes, but the Atari 2600 represents my Golden Age of console gaming.

Browse all the vintage video games in our 2023 November 3 – 4 Video Games Signature® Auction

I was 10 years old when the system—then called the Atari VCS—was released in 1977, and I had a blast playing Combat, Air-Sea Battle, and other launch lineup games at various friends’ homes–my parents weren’t about to shell out $250 plus $30-$45 or so each for games. Later, coin-op ports like Space Invaders and Missile Command convinced me that I must own the system.

Finally, during the spring of 1983, a kid at school sold me his 2600 complete with 10 games for just $10, which was an incredible bargain. I’ve been collecting for the console ever since and have well over 200 titles in my collection, some sealed, some complete-in-box.

We’ve got nine different 2600 games in this sale, plus a factory case of six copies of Asteroids.

Here’s a brief look at each of these highly nostalgic lots:

Centipede – Wata GEN Sealed [1982 Silver Box, Alamogordo Dump Excavation #09188, with Certificate of Authenticity], 2600 Atari 1982 USA

The mushrooms in this port of the coin-op classic are rectangular, but that didn’t stop me from spending a ton of time with this fantastic shooter. It certainly captured the spirit and fun of its progenitor, and compatibility with the trackball controller was a major plus. The fact that this copy was excavated from the famous Alamagordo dumping ground makes it more than just a fun game—it’s a landmark (literally and figurately) collectible for fans of video game history.

Ghostbusters – Wata 9.6 A Sealed, 2600 Activision 1985 USA

As we approach the 40th anniversary of the 1984 horror/comedy Ghostbusters, it’s impossible not to feel a touch of nostalgia. Amongst these cherished memories is my thrill of experiencing its debut on the big screen. Also memorable was the fun I derived from the Atari 2600 game programmed by Pitfall! mastermind David Crane. This action/adventure title holds a revered place in my collection, thanks in part to its iconic cover art. Moreover, this specific copy reigns supreme as the highest graded on Wata’s June 2023 pop report, enhancing its desirability exponentially.

Home Run – CGC 9.6 Glue Seal, 2600 Atari 1978 USA

The graphics for Home Run may look primitive to modern players accustomed to the photo-realistic visuals of today’s baseball video games, but the title was nothing short of magical when it was released in 1978. Just the fact that you could control the onscreen action was mind-bending to my 11-year-old self as video games were still very much a novelty. While cart-only copies of Home Run are plentiful, sealed examples like the one we’re offering are rarer than an in-the-park homer.

Mario Bros. – Wata 8.0 A Sealed [1983 Silver box, First Production], 2600 Atari 1983 USA

When Nintendo’s Mario Bros. coin-op was released in the arcades in 1983, my best friend Johnnie and I would play the two-player mode at the local mall for hours and hours, laughing and trash-talking almost the entire time. One of the brilliant things about the game is that you could cooperate or compete, the latter of which was much more fun as you could sabotage your opponent in a number of fun ways when they least expected it. This Atari adaptation, which mimicked the action well, meant you could save your quarters and thwart your Mario brother at home.

Masters of the Universe: The Power of He-Man – CGC 9.0 A+ Sealed, 2600 Mattel Electronics 1983 USA

When it comes to Saturday Morning cartoons, I grew up on the Super Friends and Thundarr the Barbarian. By the time He-Man and the Masters of the Universe aired in 1983, I thought I was too old for adventure cartoons, so I missed out. Fortunately, through the magic of streaming, I’ve checked it out and enjoyed it in recent times. Conversely, I’ve been a fan of the video game since it first came out for both the 2600 and Intellivision. The sealed/graded 2600 copy we’re offering is perfect for display, thanks to its excellent condition and amazingly cool cover art.

Miner 2049er – CGC 9.2 A++ Tape Seal, 2600 Tigervision 1983 USA

The ColecoVision version of Miner 2049er, with its 11 screens and ingeniously challenging climbing/platform action, is one of my favorite video games of all time. For years I didn’t even know there was a 2600 release of the title with only three screens. The reason for my ignorance is that the game was uncommon (bordering on rare), even back when it first came out—I simply never saw it for sale in stores. Today, the game is a grail among Atari completionists. The beautiful copy we’re offering, safely preserved in a sturdy CGC slab, miraculously maintains its original tape seal.

Pac-Man – Wata GEN NS Glue Seal [No “Video Computer System”, Thumbcut Box, Early Production, Alamogordo Dump Excavation #09268, with Certificate of Authenticity], 2600 Atari 1982 USA

Growing up as a gamer, I had heard rumors of thousands of Atari 2600 games being dumped in a landfill in New Mexico to get rid of unsold inventory. Decades later, at the 2014 Classic Gaming Expo in Las Vegas, I watched the premier of Atari: Game Over, a documentary covering just that topic. It was fascinating and filled with numerous details surrounding this phenomenon, which many thought was a myth, but indeed was true. The fact that we’re offering two games from the excavation—Pac-Man and Centipede—in this sale is nothing short of historic.

Pelé’s Soccer – CGC 8.0 Glue Seal [1981 Light Green Box, Early Production], 2600 Atari 1980 USA

When I was a pre-teen, I went through a major soccer phase. I played soccer at school and in the neighborhood, I picked out a “Soccer Action!” T-shirt at K-mart, and I would listen to Dallas Tornado soccer games on my little transistor radio. Admittedly, I wasn’t super impressed with Championship Soccer for the Atari 2600 at first, but when they changed the branding and title to Pele’s Soccer, it definitely kicked (so to speak) the game up several notches in my book. Sadly, the legendary “footballer” of the title passed away in December of 2022, but this gorgeous copy of the game he endorsed is a nice tribute to his memory.

Star Wars: Jedi Arena – Wata 9.8 A++ Sealed, 2600 Parker Brothers 1983 USA

Along with Activision and Imagic, Parker Brothers was one of the stronger third-party companies that created games for the Atari 2600. Along with such titles as Popeye and Super Cobra, the company released three Star Wars-themed games for the console, including Star Wars: Jedi Arena. While I didn’t play Star Wars: Jedi Arena nearly as much as Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, I loved the cover art, and I was impressed by the graphics and music, including the iconic theme song. The first video game to feature lightsabers, Jedi Arena was inspired by the scene in the original Star Wars movie where Luke Skywalker practices using his lightsaber inside the Millennium Falcon.

Factory Case Pack of 6 (Sealed) – Asteroids – 2600 Atari 1981 USA

Collectors love warehouse finds and “new old stock.” What could be cooler and more nostalgic for us longtime retro gamers than a sealed factory box of six copies of Asteroids for the Atari 2600? Adapted from Atari’s own 1979 arcade classic, the 2600 version of Asteroids is widely regarded as one of the better ports for the console, even though it looks much different than its progenitor (thanks to technological limitations), employing raster graphics instead of vector graphics. The port is enhanced with 66 gameplay variations, including shields, fast and slow asteroid speeds, the ability to flip the ship 180 degrees, and modes of play without satellites and UFOs.

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Video Games — Auction Preview by Brett Weiss

The sixth generation of video game consoles is one of the best, comprising four legendary systems from four iconic companies: the Sega Dreamcast, the Sony PlayStation 2, the Nintendo GameCube, and the Microsoft Xbox. We’re offering a variety of games from these consoles in our November 9th Showcase Auction, plus some titles for more recent systems, including the Switch and Xbox One.

Here are seven lots from the sale that caught my attention:

Browse all the video games in the 2023 November 9 Sixth Generation and Beyond Video Games Showcase Auction #44220

1.      Catherine: Full Body – VGA 95 Mint Sealed [Heart’s Desire Premium Edition], PS4 Atlus 2019 USA.

A couple of years ago, I did a video on my YouTube channel about climbing games, focusing on such popular retro titles as Donkey Kong and BurgerTime. A viewer suggested I try a more modern take on the genre and generously sent me a copy of Catherine: Full Body, which I had never played before. I loved the game’s sexy aesthetic and was impressed with its storyline and challenging, puzzle-focused gameplay. The special Heart’s Desire Premium Edition we’re offering is loaded with extras and housed in a gorgeous collector’s box.

2.      Microsoft Xbox Console – VGA 85 NM+ Sealed [Halo Special Edition Green Console], Xbox Microsoft 2004 USA.

When the OG Xbox hit stores in November of 2001, I held off on purchasing one. I was intrigued by the fact that Microsoft had entered the console market, and I figured I would get one eventually, but I was plenty busy at the time with my PlayStation 2, which had been released the previous year. When the beautiful green Halo Special Edition version of the Xbox appeared at my local Target in 2004, I couldn’t resist grabbing one, and I finally experienced the awesomeness of Halo (among other fantastic Xbox exclusives), which quickly became my favorite first-person shooter of all time.

3.      Night Trap: 25th Anniversary Edition – VGA 95 Mint Sealed [Blue Cover], Switch Limited Run 2018 USA.

While it seems tame today, Night Trap for the Sega CD was highly controversial upon release. In fact, the full-movie video game was cited, along with Mortal Kombat, in a series of congressional hearings in 1993. Senator Joe Lieberman, who led the hearing with Herb Kohl, claimed the game had gratuitous violence and promoted sexual aggression against women (hyperbolic nonsense on both fronts). The hearings helped lead to the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which is still in use today. Rated T for Teen, the Switch version celebrates the 25^th anniversary of the game and offers a host of new features, including deleted scenes, two documentaries, and more. We’ve got the Red Cover variant in this sale as well.

4.      River City Girls – VGA 95+ Mint Uncirculated [Standard Cover], Switch Limited Run 2019 USA.

River City Ransom is one of those NES titles you still frequently hear about from gamers and collectors. It’s fairly hard to find, and it’s a great beat-’em-up that is deeper than most, thanks to its adventure and RPG elements. River City Girls for the Switch is a female-powered take on Ransom, enhanced with such flourishes as manga story panels, anime cutscenes, and a synth-pop soundtrack. Kuni and Riki have been captured, and it’s up to their girlfriends, Kyoko and Misako, to save the day. Gamers can go it alone or team up with a friend for couch co-op action as they punch, kick, and use weapons to battle an assortment of baddies.

5.      The Simpsons Skateboarding – Wata 9.8 A+ Sealed, PS2 Electronic Arts 2002 USA.

What do you get when you cross Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and a certain long-running animated series? The Simpsons Skateboarding, one of the harder-to-find video games starring Bart, Lisa, Homer, Marge, and company. A PlayStation 2 exclusive, the game features story and dialogue authored by writers for the television series. Better yet, all the character voices were supplied by cast members. The player can control nine characters in all, each capable of 40 unique moves. Yes, you can do grabs and grinds as Chief Wiggum! What do you get for the Simpsons fan who has everything? The Simpsons Skateboarding for the PS2!

6.      Star Wars – VGA 90+ NM+/MT Sealed [Classic Edition], Game Boy Limited Run 2019 USA.

Nintendo’s original Game Boy system is part of the fourth generation of consoles, but this special Limited Run version was released in 2019, so where does that place it on the timeline? We feel it belongs perfectly at home in our Sixth Generation and Beyond Showcase Auction, which is filled with modern gaming goodness, as well as some rereleased retro titles. For a Game Boy release, this is a relatively faithful adaptation of the original Star Wars. Han, Luke, and Leia are playable in side-scrolling, overhead, and shooting stages based on various scenes from the iconic film. What really sells us on this Limited Run release is the packaging, which evokes the old Kenner action figures. The translucent blue cart is the icing on the cake.

7.      Super Mario Sunshine – VGA 90+ NM+/MT Sealed [Made in USA, Later Production], GameCube Nintendo 2002 USA.

Back in the day, the purple GameCube console I bought at Walmart came with Super Mario Sunshine. The game is sometimes thought of as the black sheep of the mainline Super Mario 3D platforming series, thanks in part to its unusual gameplay mechanic of spraying water to clean sludge, attack enemies, and more. Despite this designation, it was one of my son’s favorite games when he was growing up, and I enjoyed watching him play it. I got pretty far in the game myself and had a blast doing so. In fact, along with Resident Evil 4 and Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, it’s one of my top picks for the platform.

The post November 9 Sixth Generation and Beyond Video Games Showcase Auction appeared first on Old School Gamer Magazine.