Retro game collecting has become a surprisingly serious market, and classic Super Mario games are right in the middle of it. These were once the games people played after school, traded with friends, or packed away in a closet. Today, the right copy can sell for hundreds of dollars, and some versions can climb past $1,000.
The catch is that value depends on more than just the title. Collectors look closely at the version, packaging, condition, and whether the game is complete or sealed. Early prints, complete-in-box copies, rare editions, and high-grade sealed games are usually where the biggest money is.
That unpredictability is part of what makes the market so interesting. The most famous Mario games are not always the most valuable, while lesser-known releases, oddball editions, and harder-to-find versions can bring in much higher prices. From NES favorites to rare Virtual Boy titles and newer high-grade collectibles, these games show how nostalgia and scarcity can turn old Nintendo cartridges into real money.
For anyone with old Mario games tucked away, it may be worth taking a second look. The copy sitting in a box might be a common childhood favorite, or it could be one of the versions collectors are paying serious money to own.
These Mario Games Are Worth Serious Money Right Now
Some classic Super Mario games have quietly become valuable collector items, with certain versions selling for hundreds or even over $1,000. The biggest factor is not just the game itself, but condition, packaging, and rare variants. Sealed or complete-in-box copies consistently bring in the highest prices.
If you have old Nintendo games sitting in storage, it may be worth taking a second look. Collectors are especially interested in early prints, limited runs, and pristine copies. Knowing what to look for can turn an ordinary game into a valuable collectible.
Super Mario Bros (NES Early Variants)
Originally released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Mario Bros helped define modern platform gaming and has sold over 40 million copies worldwide. It remains one of the most recognizable and influential games ever made.
Not all copies are equal. Early five-screw cartridges and hang-tab box versions are significantly more valuable than later releases. Complete copies can sell for a few hundred dollars, while rare early variants in excellent condition have reached around $810.
What to look for:
• 5-screw cartridge instead of later versions
• Hang-tab box (early retail packaging)
• Original manual and inserts
• Clean label and minimal wear
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Released in 1996 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Mario RPG was a collaboration between Nintendo and Square. It introduced RPG mechanics to the Mario franchise and remains a fan favorite decades later.
Complete copies typically land in the low hundreds, but condition makes a huge difference. Near-mint or sealed versions have sold for close to $985, especially when packaging is pristine.
What to look for:
• Original box with sharp edges
• Plastic tray and inserts intact
• Manual included and undamaged
• Minimal fading or wear
Mario’s Tennis (Virtual Boy)
Mario’s Tennis launched in 1995 as a key title for Nintendo’s Virtual Boy, a short-lived console with limited production. Because of its brief lifespan, many of its games are now considered collectible.
Complete-in-box versions can sell for around $290, with sealed copies going even higher. Loose cartridges are far less valuable, making packaging essential.
What to look for:
• Complete box and manual
• Original cardboard inserts
• Minimal box wear
• Functional cartridge (Virtual Boy hardware is fragile)
Mario’s Time Machine (NES)
Mario’s Time Machine was released in the early 1990s as an educational spin-off, making it less widely owned than core Mario titles. Because of its niche appeal and later release, complete copies are harder to find today.
Complete-in-box versions have reached around $860, especially in strong condition. Sealed copies can command even higher prices due to rarity.
What to look for:
• Complete packaging (box, manual, inserts)
• Late-release NES labeling
• Minimal wear on box edges
• Clean cartridge label
Super Mario World (SNES Boxed)
Released in 1990 alongside the Super Nintendo, Super Mario World sold over 20 million copies and became one of the system’s defining games.
However, many copies were bundled with the console, making standalone retail boxes rarer. Complete boxed copies can reach around $830, with pristine examples going higher.
What to look for:
• Standalone retail box (not bundle packaging)
• Manual and promotional inserts
• Clean cartridge and label
• Minimal box creasing
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (High Grade)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe launched in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch and has sold over 50 million copies, making it one of the best-selling games of all time.
Even modern games can become valuable when graded. A factory-sealed VGA 95 copy is considered extremely rare, with sales around $1,150.
What to look for:
• Factory-sealed copy (no tears in plastic)
• High grading score (VGA or WATA)
• No shelf wear or dents
• Original retail condition
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