The Sega Dreamcast marks the end of an era for the renowned gaming giant, Sega, as it was their final home console release. This system was launched shortly after the moderate success of the Sega Saturn, aiming to stake its claim in the competitive next-gen market, before the arrival of titans like the GameCube and PlayStation 2.
Despite an impressive collection of launch titles, the Dreamcast struggled with dwindling third-party support as consumer interest began to decline. After its debut in 1998, this console was discontinued merely three years later, in 2001.
While the Dreamcast had a brief lifespan and a relatively limited game library, it became a sought-after collectible. Paradoxically, the heightened interest among collectors has seemingly diminished the value of its games. Even the rarest titles are often not worth as much as those from other retro gaming systems like the Game Boy.
Although it may not fetch astronomical amounts, a sealed Dreamcast game can still generate a substantial profit, and its significance in video game history cannot be overstated.
The following titles were selected based on the aggregate values of loose, complete-in-box, and brand-new conditions from PriceCharting.com, with data current as of this writing.
10. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
The Big Lug’s First Appearance
|
Loose |
$46.73 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$59.08 |
|
New |
$332.57 |
By the twilight of the 90s, Capcom’s Resident Evil series stood front and center as a leading pioneer within the survival horror genre. Following the huge success of the first two installments, Capcom was primed to continue that momentum with Resident Evil 3: Nemesis. Initially released on the PlayStation, it was later ported to Dreamcast in 2000.
The gameplay formula remained consistent with previous installments: players explore zombie-infested locales, navigate tank controls and fixed camera angles, shoot various monsters, and solve engaging puzzles. The significant addition was the almost relentless pursuer known as Nemesis, who adds a layer of urgency and strategic decision-making.
However, the Dreamcast version did not quite live up to the original’s acclaim, partly due to critiques of its less impressive graphics compared to its counterpart, Code Veronica. Given the recent remake of Resident Evil 3 drew a mixed response, it’s intriguing to see its original Dreamcast version fetch a high price.
9. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Sewing the Seeds of a Cultural Phenomenon
|
Loose |
$106.56 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$176.06 |
|
New |
$349.99 |
In modern discussions of anime, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has gained immense cultural significance, becoming a prominent topic among fans. However, back in the late 90s, the fame of JoJo was only known to dedicated enthusiasts, who scoured for untranslated manga or the rare OVAs.
The Dreamcast port of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure introduced players to this eccentric fighting game that aligns with Part 3 of the saga, Stardust Crusaders. Players engage with iconic characters like Jotaro, Polnareff, and Dio, enhancing their gameplay through a mechanic associated with calling upon their ‘Stand’.
The Dreamcast rendition was well-received, although its popularity was overshadowed by the unfamiliarity of the series to the wider audience. Recent years, however, may have driven up its value due to JoJo’s expanded global fanbase.
8. Project Justice
Bring Back Rival Schools, Capcom
|
Loose |
$103.68 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$169.19 |
|
New |
$350.00 |
Capcom produced a multitude of unforgettable franchises during the late 80s and 90s, particularly within the fighting game genre. One such franchise that remains dormant today is Rival Schools, which saw its sequel, Project Justice, hit the Dreamcast.
This game shifts the format from two-man teams to three-man teams, allowing for more complex strategies and team combinations in fights. The Japanese release even featured a life simulation board game mode, a feature that was absent in the Western version due to localization issues.
While well-received upon release, Project Justice was seemingly left behind in recent gaming discussions. The enduring interest in Capcom’s franchises suggests a potential revisit could find favor with today’s audiences.
7. Power Stone (Sega All Stars)
Party Brawling for Cheap
|
Loose |
$168.96 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$184.49 |
|
New |
$351.00 |
During its lifecycle, Sega initiated the Sega All Stars series, featuring notable games that were sold at budget prices, including the beloved party brawler, Power Stone. This title surpassed traditional fighting game mechanics by allowing for expansive 3D sidestepping and dynamic arena interactions, showcasing a party atmosphere.
The Power Stones play a critical role in gameplay; collecting them transforms characters into powerful warriors with devastating special moves. A standard copy of Power Stone might fetch around $200 on average, but a Sega All Stars version can reach as high as $351, presenting various opportunities for players.
6. Speed Devils (Variant Cover)
A First-Run Mistake
|
Loose |
$175.00 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$199.99 |
|
New |
$380.00 |
Interestingly, the value of video games is often influenced more by market quirks than by playability. Take for instance Speed Devils, an average racing game released for the Dreamcast. While it garners around $50 for a typical copy, a specific variant edition commands a much higher price.
Notably, the initial production run of Speed Devils contained a printing error on the manual cover, leading the manufacturer to add a sticker to the case to rectify it. This variant, lacking the devil face on the logo seen in subsequent productions, has become quite valuable, potentially fetching around $300 today.
5. Marvel VS Capcom (Sega All Stars)
The Beginning of a Franchising Empire
|
Loose |
$55.00 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$75.00 |
|
New |
$400.00 |
Continuing with the Sega All Stars initiative, one of the most pivotal releases in Capcom’s history, Marvel VS Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes, received the budget label. Not the first of its kind, this title became the cornerstone of Capcom’s crossover fighting franchise.
Marvel VS Capcom features renowned characters like Captain America and Venom battling alongside Capcom’s icons like Ryu and Mega Man. The gameplay allows for dynamic character swapping and unique assist mechanics. A pristine condition of the Dreamcast port can command nearly $329, while copies belonging to the Sega All Stars series may reach around $400.
4. Giga Wing 2
Nothing Like a Classic Scroll ‘N Shoot
|
Loose |
$129.95 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$272.50 |
|
New |
$405.99 |
The vertical scrolling shooter genre largely faded around the same time as the Dreamcast, partially due to saturation in the market. One standout title gaining rarity is Giga Wing 2, which first debuted in arcades before its 2001 Dreamcast port.
3. Marvel VS Capcom 2
Still a Gold Standard in Fighting Games
|
Loose |
$72.75 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$120.57 |
|
New |
$786.54 |
Although the Dreamcast’s overall success was moderate, it was integral in fostering the home gaming market for fighting game ports. Among the critical titles is Marvel VS Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes, which remains a hallmark of fighting games to this day.
The game showcases an extensive roster and an iconic soundtrack, what’s often considered an unmatched bar for all future crossovers. Though generally well received, its absence from current digital platforms could explain its soaring collector’s value.
2. Cannon Spike
The Capcom Crossover Time Forgot
|
Loose |
$215.19 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$320.00 |
|
New |
$713.25 |
Capcom has long excelled in crossover gaming, but Cannon Spike, originally seen at arcades in 2000, hasn’t maintained the same enduring appeal as its counterparts. Unlike traditional fighting games, Cannon Spike offers a top-down shooter experience, featuring beloved Capcom characters.
Players navigate through levels, employing both ranged weapons and melee attacks against a plethora of enemies. Despite its mixed reception, the sheer creativity of combining these characters has contributed to its rising value among collectors.
1. Death Crimson OX (Stinger Light Gun Bundle)
Bad Game Plus Plastic Tat Equals Cash
|
Loose |
$437.50 |
|---|---|
|
Complete-in-Box |
$700.00 |
|
New |
$1, 330.00 |
The value of certain games drastically increases due to unique combinations of factors. The bundled release of Death Crimson OX serves as a prime example. Bundled with the Stinger light gun by Pelican Accessories, this home port of an arcade shooter resonates primarily with collectors.
Even though its gameplay may leave much to be desired, the unique situation created by the bundled light gun has decreased the number of complete sets in circulation, driving up its value to nearly $1, 330 for a brand new unit.
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