Collecting retro games is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, it’s become a serious hobby with real investment potential. Prices on certain titles have skyrocketed over the past decade, but some game series consistently stand out for holding their value, even in fluctuating markets. The truth is, not every game or franchise is worth collecting if you’re aiming to build a collection that retains or increases in value. After years of buying, selling, and watching the retro market evolve, I’ve learned that certain series almost never lose their shine.
In this article, I’m breaking down the top collectible game series that hold value, based on years of experience and market tracking. Whether you’re just starting your collection or looking to invest in titles that won’t crash in price anytime soon, these franchises are the cornerstones of any serious retro gaming shelf.
What Makes a Series Collectible?
Before diving into specific titles, it helps to know why some game series become collectible gold. The most sought-after series usually check several of these boxes:
- Consistent quality across multiple generations
- Cult followings with diehard fan bases
- Limited releases or regional exclusives
- Strong historical significance
- Scarcity in good condition, especially complete-in-box (CIB)
Many of the top collectible game series that hold value weren’t even massive hits at launch. In fact, their relative obscurity often made them rarer, increasing their appeal years later.
Pokémon Series (Game Boy and Beyond)
There’s no ignoring Pokémon when talking about collectibles. Starting with Pokémon Red and Blue for the original Game Boy, the franchise has only grown in popularity, and so have its prices. Sealed or CIB copies of early entries like Red, Blue, Yellow, Gold, and Silver are worth hundreds, if not thousands.
Even spin-offs like Pokémon Stadium, Pokémon Snap, and Pokémon Colosseum fetch good prices in top condition. What makes Pokémon games particularly collectible is their emotional pull. Most collectors played them growing up, and now they’re willing to pay a premium to relive those memories.
Among the top collectible game series that hold value, Pokémon is arguably the most universal. Its appeal spans age groups, and it hasn’t faded with time.
Castlevania Series (NES to PS2)
Castlevania is another franchise that seems to defy the aging curve. From its roots on the NES with Castlevania and Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse, all the way through the Symphony of the Night era on PS1 and the Game Boy Advance/DS trilogies, the series has produced consistent collector gems.
Titles like Castlevania: Bloodlines (Genesis), Dracula X (SNES), and Rondo of Blood (PC Engine) have seen big jumps in value. What makes Castlevania stand out is that nearly every entry is worth owning, not just one or two. The series also has crossover appeal among fans of horror, platformers, and Metroidvanias.
For those building a portfolio of the top collectible game series that hold value, Castlevania is a must-have. Its reputation only grows with time.
Fire Emblem Series (GBA to 3DS)
Fire Emblem flew under the radar in the West for years, but since its official localization on the Game Boy Advance, it has become one of Nintendo’s most treasured franchises. Titles like Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance (GameCube), Radiant Dawn (Wii), and the GBA entries command high prices, especially when complete.
Fire Emblem games hold value because of their strategy-focused gameplay, permadeath mechanics, and detailed character development. They’re also known for limited print runs, especially pre-Awakening entries.
Collectors recognize that the Fire Emblem brand represents both rarity and replayability, which is why it remains one of the top collectible game series that hold value, particularly in North America and Japan.
Mega Man Series (NES, SNES, PS1)
Capcom’s Blue Bomber is a legend in the retro scene. The original NES entries, Mega Man 1 through 6, are always in demand, with Mega Man 5 and 6 often fetching the highest prices. Then you have the X series on SNES and PS1, which also command solid value.
Even the lesser-known titles like Mega Man & Bass (Super Famicom/GBA) and Mega Man Legends on PS1 have become highly collectible. Part of the appeal comes from the consistency in gameplay and the nostalgic challenge they represent.
Whether boxed or cart-only, Mega Man games tend to stay valuable. Their shelf appeal, iconic design, and fan loyalty make them one of the top collectible game series that hold value long-term.
Suikoden Series (PS1 and PS2)
The Suikoden series doesn’t have the mainstream recognition of Final Fantasy, but among RPG collectors, it’s pure gold. Suikoden II is often considered the holy grail of PS1 RPGs, regularly selling for over $500 when complete and in great condition. The first game also holds strong value, while PS2 entries like Suikoden III, IV, and V have appreciated steadily.
What sets Suikoden apart is its limited print runs and deep gameplay. Recruiting 108 characters, exploring political storylines, and managing your own base were groundbreaking features.
For RPG lovers, the Suikoden franchise is absolutely one of the top collectible game series that hold value, especially since Konami has left it mostly dormant, which only adds to the demand.
Final Fantasy Series (NES to PS2 and Beyond)
Even though Final Fantasy had massive print runs, many of the older entries are still worth good money, especially if you’re looking at complete copies. Final Fantasy III on the NES (the U.S. release was actually FF1), Final Fantasy II on SNES (really FFIV), and Final Fantasy III on SNES (really FFVI) are all staples of retro RPG collecting.
Final Fantasy VII on PS1 still moves units, particularly in the black-label edition. Then you’ve got Final Fantasy Tactics, VIII, IX, and the PS2 titles like X and XII, which are beginning to rise in value as PS2 collecting becomes more popular.
Final Fantasy is a household name, and for collectors, it’s a must when discussing the top collectible game series that hold value. The blend of mass appeal and nostalgic punch makes even common titles collectible in good condition.
EarthBound Series (Mother Series)
No list would be complete without EarthBound. Originally released on the SNES in North America, it didn’t sell well and was largely ignored, until the retro community gave it a second life. Today, complete EarthBound sets with the big box and scratch-and-sniff stickers can sell for over $2,000.
Japan-only entries in the Mother series, Mother (Famicom) and Mother 3 (Game Boy Advance), have also become coveted by import collectors. Fan translations have made them more accessible, increasing demand.
Even loose EarthBound cartridges go for hundreds. This series has one of the most passionate fanbases around, and that makes it one of the top collectible game series that hold value, especially for SNES-focused collectors.
Metroid Series (NES to GameCube)
Metroid games have always stood out for their eerie atmosphere, deep exploration mechanics, and strong female lead. The NES original holds steady value, but it’s the later titles that have really climbed. Super Metroid for SNES, Metroid Prime Trilogy on Wii, and Metroid Fusion and Zero Mission on GBA all fetch top dollar.
Collectors love the series for its continuity and the quality of its entries. The Prime trilogy, in particular, has become a centerpiece for GameCube and Wii collectors.
When thinking of the top collectible game series that hold value, Metroid is often less hyped but no less important, especially as new entries in the series breathe fresh life into older games.
Zelda Series (NES to Switch)
The Legend of Zelda has a little bit of everything: iconic status, consistent quality, and collectible packaging. From the gold cartridges of Zelda and Zelda II on NES, to the rare holographic cover of Majora’s Mask on N64, the franchise is packed with value.
GameCube titles like Wind Waker and Twilight Princess, as well as the Wii U HD remasters, are steadily appreciating. Even the less-played entries like Zelda: Four Swords Adventures and Spirit Tracks are becoming harder to find.
Because of its longevity and the popularity of new titles like Tears of the Kingdom, the entire franchise continues to gain attention. Among the top collectible game series that hold value, Zelda ranks at the very top for both casual collectors and hardcore fans.
Panzer Dragoon Series (Sega Saturn)
Panzer Dragoon is a more niche series, but it’s incredibly valuable. Panzer Dragoon Saga on the Sega Saturn is one of the most expensive games in North America, regularly selling for over $1,000 in good condition. Its limited release, strong gameplay, and cult reputation have made it a holy grail for collectors.
Even the other titles, Panzer Dragoon and Panzer Dragoon Zwei, hold strong value because of their rarity and connection to the flagship title.
This series may not have the name recognition of Zelda or Pokémon, but in collector circles, it’s highly respected as one of the top collectible game series that hold value.
Ys Series (TurboGrafx-16, SNES, PS2, PSP)
Falcom’s Ys franchise may fly under the radar, but early entries, especially for the TurboGrafx-CD, are incredibly collectible. Ys Book I & II is one of the best-known titles for the TurboGrafx-16 and often serves as a gateway into that console’s niche scene.
Later releases on PS2 and PSP, like Ys: The Ark of Napishtim or Ys: Oath in Felghana, also maintain their value due to smaller print runs and the hardcore fanbase that follows Falcom’s work.
If you’re looking to collect RPGs beyond the typical franchises, Ys should be on your radar. It’s one of those top collectible game series that hold value but hasn’t yet exploded in price, making it a good investment opportunity.
Conclusion
Building a valuable game collection isn’t just about chasing rare individual titles, it’s about knowing which franchises stand the test of time. The top collectible game series that hold value all share traits that keep them relevant: loyal fanbases, consistent quality, limited availability, and nostalgia that hits hard.
Whether your shelves are packed with Pokémon and Zelda or you’re digging into hidden gems like Suikoden and Ys, these series offer the best combination of collectibility and long-term worth. As the retro gaming market continues to evolve, keeping your focus on trusted franchises can help ensure your collection stays both meaningful and valuable.
So the next time you’re hunting for deals or deciding which titles to hold onto, think about these series. They’re more than just great games, they’re anchors for collections that appreciate in both sentiment and value.