PC gaming stands as the cornerstone of the video game industry, a realm where technological evolution and groundbreaking releases have shaped the landscape we know today. As gamers continue to engage with platforms like Steam and various digital storefronts, the allure of physical game releases remains strong, particularly for collectors who seek out rare gems that have become increasingly elusive.
Dark Souls III (Prestige Edition)
An intimidating, yet prestigious collectible
The Dark Souls series has garnered a dedicated following, especially among console gamers. The final installment, Dark Souls III, released in 2016, invites players into a world filled with challenging boss battles and intricate exploration. Among its various editions, the Prestige Edition stands out, featuring a treasure trove of collectibles including an art book, a metal case, and a striking 40cm Lord of Cinder figure. While a loose version of this bundle can fetch around 2, complete editions often soar to over ,000, making it a prized possession for any collector.
Garage Bad Dream Adventure
A surreal PC gem
Released in 1999 by Toshiba-EMI, Garage Bad Dream Adventure is a point-and-click horror game that has since become a cult classic. The game follows Yang, a young man trapped in a therapy machine that creates a surreal world within his mind. With only 3,000 copies produced, the physical version is now a rare find. While digital adaptations have emerged, collectors value the original release, with prices ranging from ,500 to over ,200 for complete copies.
Rockford
Going classic arcade
Originally an arcade game from 1988, Rockford was later adapted for home computers. Players navigate through stages collecting treasures while avoiding obstacles. Despite its simplicity, the physical release of Rockford has become a sought-after collectible, with loose copies valued at over ,000 and complete-in-box versions reaching upwards of ,500, and in some auctions, even exceeding ,000.
Wolfenstein 3D
The original FPS classic
Before Doom revolutionized the first-person shooter genre, Wolfenstein 3D made its mark in 1992. This iconic title, developed by Id Software, set the stage for future FPS games. The original retail release, particularly the big box version from Apogee Software, is highly coveted, with loose copies valued around ,400 and complete editions averaging around ,200, often fetching much higher at auction.
Nora Princess And Stray Cat Heart
An expensive adult visual novel
In the realm of niche gaming, Nora Princess And Stray Cat Heart stands out as a unique adult visual novel released in 2016. With its limited physical release, copies of this game are rare and highly valued, with loose versions exceeding ,000 and complete-in-box editions sometimes reaching prices as high as ,000 in auctions. Its distinct gameplay and storyline have cemented its status as a collector’s item.
Pursuing the PC collectibles
The landscape of PC gaming is rich and varied, offering an abundance of titles that continue to captivate players. While the industry has largely transitioned to digital formats, physical releases have become coveted collectibles, often commanding impressive prices. For those looking to expand their collections, acquiring these rare titles will require more than just a modest investment; it may take a considerable financial commitment to secure these elusive treasures.
