Many video game consoles have come and gone, but not all have faded into complete obscurity. Some of the most forgotten consoles are now highly sought after by collectors, prized for their rarity and unique place in gaming history. Despite their commercial failures, these systems represent important milestones in the evolution of video gaming technology. From ambitious designs to limited releases, these consoles are now treasured relics that offer a glimpse into the industry’s past. Whether due to their innovation or their quirks, they have become valuable collector’s items over time.
Fairchild Channel F
Released in 1976, the Fairchild Channel F was the first console to use interchangeable cartridges. While it lacked the graphical prowess of later systems, its innovative approach to gaming paved the way for future consoles. The games were simple, with limited colors and basic sound, but for its time, it was revolutionary. Today, collectors seek it out for its historical significance and rarity. Units in good condition with working cartridges can fetch high prices at auctions. Despite being overshadowed by Atari’s success, its place in gaming history is cemented.
Vectrex
Launched in 1982, the Vectrex was unique for its built-in screen and vector-based graphics. Unlike other systems, it displayed crisp, monochrome lines instead of pixelated graphics. Its stand-out feature was a 3D Imager accessory, which was incredibly advanced for the time. Despite this, the Vectrex was a commercial failure due to its high price and limited game library. Today, it’s highly sought after by collectors for its uniqueness and rarity. Finding a working Vectrex in good condition, especially with the 3D accessory, can be a significant investment.
Atari Lynx
As one of the first color handheld consoles, the Atari Lynx was ahead of its time when it launched in 1989. It featured backlit graphics and multiplayer capabilities via a link cable. Unfortunately, poor battery life and fierce competition from Nintendo’s Game Boy led to its demise. Collectors today prize it for its relatively advanced hardware and unique games that were exclusive to the system. Original units in good condition, especially with the original packaging, are rare finds. The Lynx’s limited success makes it a true collector’s gem.
Sega SG-1000
Predating the famous Sega Master System, the SG-1000 hit the market in 1983. Although it was released in a limited number of regions, the SG-1000 marked Sega’s first foray into the home console market. Its library was small and primarily featured arcade-style games, which made it appealing to die-hard Sega fans. As the system was quickly overshadowed by its successor, few units were sold, making it a prized possession for collectors today. Complete units, especially in Japan, can command steep prices. Its obscurity adds to its mystique and value in the retro gaming community.
Bally Astrocade
Originally launched in 1977, the Bally Astrocade didn’t gain widespread attention despite its advanced features for the time. It boasted a built-in BASIC programming language and supported multiple players. Competing against Atari, it struggled to gain traction due to poor marketing and limited game releases. Today, the Astrocade is valued for its technological innovation and limited production run. Finding a fully operational unit can be a challenge, and those with all accessories intact are even rarer. For vintage console enthusiasts, this is a coveted piece of gaming history.
Amiga CD32
Launched in 1993, the Amiga CD32 was the first 32-bit CD-based console in Europe, but its lifespan was short-lived due to company financial struggles. It offered advanced graphics and sound for the time, but a lack of third-party support hindered its success. Despite this, the Amiga CD32 had a strong following among fans of Commodore computers. Its rarity, coupled with the nostalgia of Amiga fans, has made it a sought-after collector’s item. Consoles in good condition with working controllers and original games are highly valued. The CD32’s untimely demise adds to its appeal as a collectible.
TurboGrafx-16
Originally released in Japan as the PC Engine in 1987, the TurboGrafx-16 arrived in North America in 1989. It was the first console to feature a CD-ROM attachment, which was revolutionary at the time. However, it was overshadowed by the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo, leading to its early exit from the market. Despite its commercial failure, the TurboGrafx-16 has developed a cult following over the years. Collectors prize its unique design and library of rare games, which can fetch hefty sums. The console’s limited success in the U.S. only increases its allure among retro enthusiasts.
Mattel Intellivision
Released in 1979, Mattel’s Intellivision was an ambitious console that competed directly with Atari. It was the first system to offer downloadable games through a phone line and featured advanced sports and strategy games for the time. Despite its innovative features, the console’s complex controller and limited third-party support held it back. Today, it’s a collector’s dream, especially for fans of early video game history. Finding a fully functional unit with all its original parts is becoming increasingly rare. The Intellivision’s groundbreaking yet short-lived influence has made it a sought-after piece.
Philips CD-i
In 1991, Philips attempted to revolutionize gaming with its CD-i system, marketed as an interactive multimedia device rather than just a gaming console. Unfortunately, its high price point and a lack of quality games led to its quick downfall. Today, the CD-i is remembered more for its infamously bad games, like the Zelda series spin-offs. Despite its poor reception, collectors value it for its quirky history and rarity. Complete sets, especially those with the iconic bad games, are prized. The CD-i’s infamy has ironically turned it into a valuable piece of gaming history.
Pioneer LaserActive
The Pioneer LaserActive, launched in 1993, was a hybrid console that combined LaserDisc technology with video gaming. It could play both Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx-16 games through additional modules. Its massive price tag and limited game library ensured its quick failure in the market. However, its novelty and the rarity of its hardware have made it highly collectible today. Fully operational systems, especially with the game modules, are incredibly rare and can fetch thousands. For collectors, the LaserActive represents an ambitious but flawed piece of gaming history.
3DO Interactive Multiplayer
Released in 1993, the 3DO Interactive Multiplayer was the brainchild of Electronic Arts founder Trip Hawkins. Despite being technologically superior to its competitors, its high price point of $699 at launch led to poor sales. Today, the 3DO is remembered for its advanced graphics and sound capabilities but also its short lifespan. Collectors seek it out for its historical value and the niche library of games exclusive to the system. Pristine consoles and rare games command high prices in the retro gaming market. The 3DO’s commercial failure only adds to its allure as a collector’s item.
Neo Geo AES
Released in 1990, the Neo Geo AES was marketed as an arcade-quality system for home use, but its steep price made it inaccessible to most gamers. The games were massive, expensive cartridges that contained the same data as arcade machines, providing an unparalleled gaming experience for the time. Although it didn’t achieve mass-market success, the Neo Geo AES became a symbol of high-end gaming. Collectors today covet both the console and its games, with some titles fetching thousands of dollars. Its premium price tag and limited availability have made it one of the most sought-after retro consoles.
Atari Jaguar
In 1993, Atari launched the Jaguar, touting it as the first 64-bit console. However, it struggled with hardware issues and a limited game library, leading to its early demise. Collectors value the Jaguar for its unique place in gaming history as Atari’s final home console. Despite its technical shortcomings, the console has a loyal following today. Finding games in good condition can be tricky, as only a small number were ever released. The Jaguar’s bold claims and eventual failure make it a highly desirable collector’s item.
ColecoVision
Released in 1982, ColecoVision was praised for its arcade-quality graphics and controllers. It offered ports of popular arcade games like Donkey Kong, which set it apart from competitors. However, the video game crash of 1983 drastically shortened its lifespan. Today, it’s a sought-after console among retro collectors due to its strong game library and nostalgic value. Complete sets with original controllers and games are rare and valuable. Despite its short run, ColecoVision left a lasting impact on the gaming world, making it a prized collectible.
Sega Saturn
Launched in 1994, the Sega Saturn was Sega’s attempt to enter the 32-bit console market. Despite its advanced hardware, poor marketing decisions and the early release of the PlayStation led to its downfall. However, the Saturn developed a cult following, especially in Japan, where it received more game support. Today, it’s a collector’s favorite for its unique games, especially Japanese imports that never saw a U.S. release. Finding a working unit with original accessories is becoming increasingly difficult. The Saturn’s turbulent history only adds to its status as a coveted collector’s piece.
Bandai Pippin
The Bandai Pippin, released in 1996, was Apple’s foray into the gaming world. It combined gaming with a multimedia computer experience but failed to gain traction due to its high price and lack of software. Today, the Pippin is a rare collector’s item, particularly for fans of Apple’s early ventures into different industries. Units in good condition with all the original components are hard to come by. Despite its failure, the Pippin’s rarity and its connection to Apple make it a unique piece of gaming history. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for complete sets.
Gizmondo
Released in 2005, the Gizmondo was a handheld console that promised to revolutionize mobile gaming, but it ended up becoming infamous for the scandals surrounding its executives. Despite some innovative features like GPS integration and text messaging, the high price and limited game library doomed the console. Today, collectors seek out the Gizmondo due to its rarity and the bizarre story behind its release. Finding a working Gizmondo is a challenge, as very few units were sold. Its infamous legacy has only made it more appealing to retro gaming enthusiasts. The Gizmondo stands as a symbol of what could have been.
Epoch Cassette Vision
The Epoch Cassette Vision, released in Japan in 1981, is often overlooked in discussions of early consoles, yet it played a key role in Japan’s gaming history. Its games came on large cartridges and were rudimentary by even the standards of the time. Despite its basic graphics, the Cassette Vision had a small but loyal following. Today, collectors value it for its obscurity and the role it played in Japan’s pre-Nintendo gaming scene. Complete sets, including its rare game library, are highly prized. As a forgotten console, the Cassette Vision has earned its place as a valuable collector’s item.
FM Towns Marty
Released exclusively in Japan in 1993, the FM Towns Marty was the first 32-bit home console, predating both the PlayStation and Sega Saturn. It boasted impressive multimedia capabilities but suffered from a lack of support and high price point. Due to its limited release and niche appeal, few units were sold. Today, it’s a highly sought-after console for collectors interested in rare Japanese technology. Finding a working FM Towns Marty, especially with original packaging, is rare, making it a prized possession for any gaming collector. Its combination of rarity and cutting-edge design makes it a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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