Super Mario Bros. isn’t just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon. From its humble beginnings on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) to its modern incarnations on the Nintendo Switch, Mario has captivated generations of gamers. But understanding the true cost of Super Mario Bros. goes far beyond the price tag on a new game cartridge or digital download. This article delves into the various factors that determine the price, from the original NES game to its modern-day availability, considering both new and used markets, and the ever-elusive collector’s items.
The Original Super Mario Bros. on NES: A Blast From the Past
The initial price of Super Mario Bros. when it launched in 1985 was around $25 to $30. This price was considered standard for NES games at the time. It’s important to remember that this price reflects the economic climate of the 1980s, including inflation and the purchasing power of consumers then.
Used Cartridges: A Budget-Friendly Option
Today, buying a used copy of Super Mario Bros. for the NES can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the condition of the cartridge, whether it includes the original box and manual, and the seller. Sites like eBay, retro game stores, and local marketplaces are good starting points to find these vintage copies. Always inspect images carefully and ask questions about the game’s condition before making a purchase.
Sealed and Graded Copies: The Holy Grail for Collectors
This is where things get interesting. A sealed, graded copy of Super Mario Bros. can fetch astronomical prices. Factors influencing the price include the grading company (WATA Games being a prominent one), the game’s condition (graded out of 10), the production run, and the presence of hangtabs or other unique features.
In recent years, some sealed copies of Super Mario Bros. have sold for millions of dollars at auction, making them some of the most expensive video games ever sold. This is largely driven by collectors seeking to own a pristine piece of video game history.
What Makes a Sealed Copy So Valuable?
The appeal of a sealed copy lies in its untouched, factory-fresh condition. It represents a time capsule, preserving the game exactly as it was when it left the factory. Graded copies offer an additional layer of assurance, with professional assessment confirming the game’s authenticity and condition. The rarity of well-preserved sealed copies further drives up their value.
Super Mario Bros. on Modern Platforms: Digital and Physical
Super Mario Bros. isn’t confined to the NES. It’s been re-released and reimagined on various Nintendo consoles over the years.
Super Mario All-Stars: A Collection of Classics
Super Mario All-Stars, released on the SNES, featured updated versions of the original Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, Super Mario Bros. 2, and Super Mario Bros. 3. The SNES cartridge typically costs between $20 and $60 depending on condition and completeness.
Virtual Console and Nintendo Switch Online: The Digital Era
Nintendo’s Virtual Console (on the Wii, Wii U, and 3DS) allowed players to download digital versions of classic NES games, including Super Mario Bros. These versions typically cost around $5 to $10 per game.
With the launch of Nintendo Switch Online, subscribers gain access to a library of classic NES and SNES games, including Super Mario Bros. The cost of Nintendo Switch Online varies depending on the subscription tier and duration, but it’s a more affordable option than buying individual digital copies, especially if you want to play multiple retro games. A basic subscription typically costs around $20 per year, while the Expansion Pack, which includes N64 and Game Boy Advance games, costs around $50 per year.
Super Mario Maker 2: Building Your Own Mario Worlds
Super Mario Maker 2 allows players to create and share their own Super Mario levels, incorporating elements from various Super Mario games, including the original Super Mario Bros. The game, available on the Nintendo Switch, usually retails for around $60.
Beyond the Game: Additional Costs to Consider
The cost of Super Mario Bros. extends beyond just the game itself.
Consoles and Accessories: The Hardware Investment
To play Super Mario Bros., you’ll need a compatible console. Whether it’s an original NES, a SNES, a Wii, a Wii U, a 3DS, or a Nintendo Switch, each console comes with its own price tag. An original NES in working condition can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 or more, depending on its condition and completeness. Modern consoles like the Nintendo Switch retail for around $300. Don’t forget the cost of controllers and other accessories, which can add to the overall expense.
Inflation and Currency Fluctuations: The Economic Reality
It’s crucial to consider inflation when comparing the price of Super Mario Bros. in 1985 to its price today. $30 in 1985 has significantly more purchasing power than $30 today. Currency fluctuations can also affect the price, particularly when buying from international sellers or dealing with graded games that are often auctioned in US dollars.
The Cost of Collecting: A Hobby for the Dedicated
Collecting Super Mario Bros. memorabilia can become an expensive hobby. From action figures and plush toys to posters and promotional items, the market for Super Mario collectibles is vast and varied. Prices range from a few dollars for common items to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for rare and sought-after pieces.
Factors Influencing the Price of Super Mario Bros.
Several factors impact the price of Super Mario Bros., especially in the collector’s market.
Condition: The Prime Determinant
The condition of the game is paramount. A pristine, sealed copy will always command a higher price than a used cartridge with wear and tear. For used cartridges, factors like label condition, cartridge color, and overall cleanliness play a significant role.
Rarity: The Scarcity Factor
Rarer versions of Super Mario Bros., such as early production runs or those with unique packaging variations, are more valuable due to their scarcity. The fewer copies available, the higher the demand and the resulting price.
Grading: Professional Assessment
Professional grading by companies like WATA Games provides an objective assessment of a game’s condition and authenticity. A high grade significantly increases the game’s value, as it offers assurance to potential buyers.
Market Demand: The Collector’s Pulse
The overall demand for Super Mario Bros. memorabilia and video games influences the price. Trends in the collector’s market, nostalgia, and media coverage can all drive up demand and prices.
Conclusion: The Enduring Value of Super Mario Bros.
The cost of Super Mario Bros. is multifaceted, ranging from the affordable price of a used cartridge to the astronomical sums commanded by sealed, graded copies. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking to relive your childhood or a serious collector seeking a prized possession, understanding the factors that influence the price is crucial. Ultimately, the enduring value of Super Mario Bros. lies not just in its monetary worth but in its cultural significance and the joy it has brought to millions of players worldwide. The nostalgia factor alone makes it priceless to many.
What factors contribute to the perceived value and high prices of rare Super Mario Bros. cartridges?
Rarity is a primary driver of value. Limited production runs, variants, or specific production errors significantly increase a cartridge’s scarcity. Condition also plays a crucial role; a sealed, graded copy in pristine condition is far more desirable and valuable than an opened, worn cartridge. Beyond rarity and condition, provenance, or the documented history of ownership, can also add substantial value, especially if the cartridge was owned by a notable individual or comes with verifiable authentication.
Nostalgia and cultural significance are powerful forces in the collectible gaming market. Super Mario Bros. is not just a game; it’s a cultural icon that defined a generation of gamers. For many collectors, owning a rare cartridge represents a tangible connection to their childhood and a piece of gaming history. This emotional connection, coupled with the game’s lasting impact on the industry, fuels demand and drives up prices, making it a prized possession for serious collectors.
What is game grading, and how does it impact the value of Super Mario Bros. cartridges?
Game grading is a process where professional companies like WATA Games or VGA assess the condition of a video game cartridge and assign it a numerical grade based on factors like the box’s condition, the seal’s integrity, and the cartridge’s physical appearance. This provides a standardized and objective evaluation of the item’s quality, making it easier for collectors to compare and trade cartridges with confidence. Grading removes much of the subjectivity involved in assessing condition and provides a benchmark for valuation.
A higher grade significantly increases the value of a Super Mario Bros. cartridge. A near-mint, sealed copy graded highly by a reputable company will command a much higher price than an ungraded or lower-graded copy. The grading process adds a layer of legitimacy and trustworthiness, assuring potential buyers that the cartridge is authentic and in excellent condition. This assurance is particularly important for high-value items, where even slight imperfections can drastically impact the price.
What are some of the rarest and most expensive versions of Super Mario Bros.?
The “No Rev-A” sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. is one of the most sought-after and expensive versions. These cartridges were produced during a very early run of the game and lack the “Rev-A” revision mark on the box. Because of their limited production and early distribution, they are exceedingly rare and command exceptionally high prices among collectors.
Another extremely rare and valuable version is the “Left Bros.” variant, named for a printing error on the box where “Bros.” is slightly shifted to the left. While subtle, this error makes the cartridge highly collectible. These rare variants, especially in sealed condition, represent the pinnacle of Super Mario Bros. collecting and can fetch prices in the hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of dollars at auction.
Are all old Super Mario Bros. cartridges valuable?
No, the vast majority of old Super Mario Bros. cartridges are not particularly valuable. Common, opened copies in average condition can often be found for relatively low prices, ranging from a few dollars to a few hundred, depending on condition. These are readily available and do not possess the rarity or pristine condition that drives up the value of the most expensive versions.
The high prices reported in the media are typically associated with extremely rare variants, sealed copies, and those that have been professionally graded. Unless a cartridge is in exceptional condition, a rare variant, or sealed in its original packaging, it is unlikely to be worth a substantial amount of money. Determining value requires careful evaluation of the cartridge’s specific characteristics and condition.
What are some common misconceptions about the value of old video games, particularly Super Mario Bros.?
A common misconception is that any old video game, simply by virtue of its age, is valuable. While age can be a factor, rarity and condition are far more significant determinants of value. A game that was widely produced and is easily found in poor condition is unlikely to be worth much, regardless of its age.
Another misconception is that all sealed games are automatically valuable. The game’s rarity, the seal’s integrity, and the grading by a reputable company all contribute to the final value. A common game, even sealed, will not fetch the same price as a rare variant in similar condition. It’s crucial to research the specific game and its variants before assuming it has significant value.
Where can you sell a rare Super Mario Bros. cartridge to get the best price?
Auction houses specializing in rare collectibles, such as Heritage Auctions, are often the best places to sell extremely valuable Super Mario Bros. cartridges. These auction houses have a global reach, a dedicated collector base, and the expertise to properly market and sell high-value items, potentially driving up the final sale price through competitive bidding.
Consignment with reputable video game dealers or sellers who specialize in rare and graded games is another viable option. These dealers have the knowledge and connections to reach serious collectors and can handle the grading, marketing, and sales process on your behalf. However, they will typically charge a commission on the final sale, so it’s essential to negotiate favorable terms.
Besides the cartridge itself, what other factors can influence the overall cost of owning a rare Super Mario Bros. game?
Insurance costs can significantly add to the overall cost of owning a rare and valuable Super Mario Bros. game. Given their high monetary value, such items need to be insured against theft, damage, or loss, and the premiums for such coverage can be substantial, particularly if the game is stored at home.
Secure storage is another factor. Collectors may choose to store their valuable games in climate-controlled storage facilities or secure vaults to protect them from environmental damage, theft, or unauthorized access. The cost of these specialized storage solutions can contribute significantly to the overall expense of owning a rare Super Mario Bros. game.