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Super Mario 64: The World’s Most Expensive Video Game and the Nostalgia Economy

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Super Mario 64: The World’s Most Expensive Video Game

Record-Breaking Auction

In a groundbreaking auction, a pristine copy of the beloved video game “Super Mario 64” shattered records, becoming the most expensive video game ever sold. The 1996 cartridge, rated 9.8 on the Wata Scale for its near-impeccable condition, fetched an astounding $1.56 million. This surpassed the previous record set just two days prior by a copy of “The Legend of Zelda.”

The Enduring Legacy of Mario

Mario, the iconic video game character created by Shigeru Miyamoto, has captivated generations of gamers. His first appearance in 1981 as a mustachioed Italian plumber has evolved into one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment. Mario’s signature bright red overalls, cheerful catchphrases, and extraordinary agility have made him a beloved symbol of the gaming world.

Nintendo’s Gaming Dominance

Nintendo, the company behind Mario and “Super Mario 64,” has long dominated the video game industry. The release of “Super Mario 64” in 1996 marked a watershed moment in gaming, as it introduced immersive three-dimensional environments to the Mario franchise. With over 12 million copies sold, “Super Mario 64” remains a testament to Nintendo’s enduring popularity.

Nostalgia’s Role in Soaring Prices

Millennials, who grew up with the video games of the 1990s, are credited with driving the recent surge in retro game prices. The nostalgia associated with these games has led to a renewed appreciation and demand for pristine condition cartridges. This has resulted in record-breaking sales for iconic titles like “Super Mario 64” and “The Legend of Zelda.”

The Perfect Cartridge

The newly auctioned “Super Mario 64” cartridge stands out for its exceptional condition. Encased in protective plastic and still factory-sealed, it received the coveted 9.8 rating on the Wata Scale, indicating virtually no damage. This level of preservation is rare and highly sought after by collectors.

Expert Perspectives

Video game historian Chris Kohler expressed surprise at the record-breaking sale, noting that he had expected a more famous game to hold the distinction. Kohler attributed the high price to the nostalgia factor and the rarity of such well-preserved cartridges.

Heritage Auctions video game specialist Valarie McLeckie echoed Kohler’s sentiments, stating that she was “blindsided” by the final price. She emphasized the importance of pristine condition for achieving high ratings on the Wata Scale.

Market Trends and Future Implications

The record-breaking sales of “Super Mario 64” and “The Legend of Zelda” have set a new benchmark for the value of rare video games. It remains to be seen whether this trend will continue, but it is clear that nostalgia and scarcity play a significant role in determining the prices of these coveted collectibles.

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