Forgotten treasures from a closed video game store in Nebraska have resurfaced, with experts estimating their value in the six-figure range.
In 1998, a video game store in Nebraska closed its doors, leaving behind a forgotten treasure trove of unsealed Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis cartridges. These games, still in their original shrink-wrap, have recently been appraised, revealing a collection of top-graded items that could fetch a hefty sum. With 173 mint-condition cartridges up for sale, collectors and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to own a piece of gaming history.
The Unveiling of the Nebraska Collection:
A viral YouTube video, filmed nearly two years ago, brought attention to the remarkable collection. The footage showcased the hundreds of games, their shiny boxes gleaming under the lights, and the excitement was palpable. The man behind the video, Chris Thompson, owns a chain of video game stores in Nebraska called Gameroom. He was instrumental in getting the games appraised and authenticated.
The Origins of the Collection:
The games had been stored away since 1998 when Mark Odorisio, the owner of the now-closed video game shop, made the decision to pack up his inventory and put it into storage. Mark’s brother, Tim Odorisio, eventually realized that a decision needed to be made regarding the fate of these games. After a conversation with Mark, it was clear that his intentions were to keep the games until his passing and then pass them on to his children. Tim, recognizing the value of the collection, intervened and urged Mark to consider selling them.
The Rarity and Value of the Games:
The Nebraska Collection comprises 173 video game cartridges, some of which are considered rare and highly sought after by collectors. One standout item is a nearly perfectly preserved copy of the game Chrono Trigger. Chris Kohler, a collector and the editorial director at Digital Eclipse, describes Chrono Trigger as an “amazing masterpiece” and one of the best video game role-playing games ever made. This particular copy of the game is deemed to be in pristine condition, making it an incredibly valuable piece.
The Potential Windfall:
Although the Nebraska Collection missed the surge in vintage game sales during the pandemic, experts estimate that individual games from the collection can still fetch prices as high as $10,000. Considering the rarity and quality of the cartridges in the collection, it is predicted that the entire collection could sell for a six-figure sum. While the exact method of sale is yet to be determined, Chris Thompson has stated that the games are not for individual sale but could be purchased as a complete set for a significant amount.
Conclusion:
The discovery of the Nebraska Collection has sent waves of excitement through the gaming community. With its pristine condition and rare titles, this collection represents a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of gaming history. As the games await their fate, the anticipation grows, and enthusiasts eagerly await news of the collection’s sale. Whether the collection remains intact or is dispersed among avid collectors, its value is undeniable, and it serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and cultural significance of video games.
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