The Rarest and Most Valuable Atari 2600 Games

Presented by Ack & Racketboy

Due to its vintage and the bizarre state of the video game industry in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Atari 2600 library boasts some of the most common and affordable cartridges, as well as some of the rarest and most valuable games ever released. Because of the rarity of certain games, only a few elite collectors are able to even get close to building a complete collection for the iconic Atari console. We have been building out this guide over the last ten years and have recently been talking with some of these elite collectors to refine the ranking of the games and trying to provide the most accurate pricing possible.

Despite the challenges in tracking down some of the gems contained in this list, it is entirely possible to stumble on treasures yourself by chance. In fact, many of the games in this list were discovered in unlikely places and without unusual effort. Be sure to study this list and keep it handy as you might encounter one in your collection or in your game hunting routines.

In stark contrast to the Cheapest Games series , this Rare & Valuable series will round up the rarest and most valuable games for a given console or handheld so you’ll know what to look for whether you are buying or selling. It should be noted, prices vary based on the condition and completeness of the title.

Prices updated June 2022

Air Raid: $2,800 – $33,000

Air Raid was long considered to be a pirate cartridge from South America because of its unusual case and scanline count. Some were later convinced it was indeed a US release from a small LA-based operation. Others argue that the suspicious re-use of code from Space Jockey, absence of advertising, and lacking grammar and punctuation point to it being a Taiwanese hack sold in the States.

Air Raid’s gameplay centers around the player attempting to protect a city by shooting down flying saucers, airplanes, and other kinds of enemies which are trying to bomb said city. The player must fly around in their aircraft, launching missiles at enemy ships. Waves are continuous, though scores are tabulated so players can compete against themselves. There are no solid publication estimates, but there about 28 known copies (with about 10 found in the last five years including all five known boxed units) circulating compared to the one confirmed copy of Birthday Mania or four copies of Red Sea Crossing (mentioned below). The addition of the box to complete the collectors piece is where the true rarity and value lays.

For many years, only unboxed copies of the game had surfaced, including a 2004 sale for $3,305. In 2012, the community saw two boxed copies sell on eBay and GameGavel for $14,000 and $33,400 (included the manual in addition to box) respectively. In 2013, another loose cartridge sold for $2,500. As of this writing, there is a loose copy up on eBay with a Buy it Now of $3999 that has been lingering for a while.

The story behind the previous owner of the $33K boxed copy is especially remarkable. While working in the video game department of a drug store in California in the early 80s, he was given a copy Air Raid to sell by a visiting sales rep. After trying it out at home, he decided the game wasn’t interesting enough for the store. He offered the cartridge back to the sales rep, but he simply told him to keep it. His kids played it a couple times over the years, but it had been sitting among a collection of other boxes Atari games for a couple decades in storage. You can watch them dig it back out right here.

This last Complete-In-Box (CIB) sale made it one of the highest priced public video game transactions of all time (a bit behind the $41,300 that was paid for a copy of Stadium Events for the NES). For the record, it would be interesting to see Gamma Attack or Birthday Mania (or even a boxed Ultravision Karate) change hands just so we can see how they compare.

Currently, it seem there there are about 20 copies of Air Raid in known circulation, but only a few of them have boxes.

  • See Latest Air Raid Cartridge on eBay

Birthday Mania:   $6,500 – $20,000

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One example of this is Personal Games’ attempt at bringing a customized video game experience for the “perfect” birthday present for a early 80’s video game fan. Birthday Mania cartridges were specially ordered cartridges with personalized title screens and a handy space on the label to write the recipient’s name.  The game played “Happy Birthday” tones before launching into a simple Kaboom / shooter-type game where you “blow out” birthday candles. The game wasn’t especially great and the customizing aspect was minimal.

Needless to say, It didn’t really catch on, so there are very few of these out on the market. It is estimated that there were about 300 of the Birthday Mania units produced, with only 10 sold and possibly only a couple surviving the intervening decades that the community is aware of. The cartridge was sold with a three-folded manual sheet, but no box is known.  One is said to be in the hands of Jerry Greiner, known Atari collector and enthusiast, but unconfirmed, while another belongs to a user at AtariAge (I won’t list his name since he appears to value his privacy).

Back in 2009, the highest known offer for a copy of Birthday Mania was $6500, but it was turned down by the owner. With more recent sales of Air Raid, Red Sea Crossing, Extra Terrestrials, and the rise of collecting over the last decade, a legit copy of Birthday Mania should now sell for far about that amount.

  • Check for Birthday Mania on eBay

Red Sea Crossing:   $10,400 – $17,000

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The game was discovered in September of 2007 at a garage sale in Ohio (at the same time as a copy The Music Machine for 50 cents – see more info and the collectors’ value below)  During the vetting process, the AtariAge community contacted Steve Schustack to flesh out the origin story of the game. He mentioned that he made a “few hundred” of the cartridges but didn’t know what happened to them. (He hinted that he might have units in storage, but it would be hard to dig out).  After dealing with a great deal of vetting, skepticism, and relatively small bids by the AtariAge forum, nagn2 waited 8 years before putting it up on eBay, where it sold for $10,400 to AtariAge member Atari4You.

Incidentally, within four days of nagn2 finally announcing he would auction off his copy, Travis from Medium Bob’s Curiosity Shop in Philadelphia mentioned that he had a copy in his shop .   He ended up selling his on GameGavel for $13,900 . Some factors in the higher value include having a better condition of the label and a bit more mainstream press.

Later that month, Atari4You worked with other Atari community members to offer 100 (original plan was 50) numbered reproductions of the cart for $60 each. He was also in contact with the original developer and was open to sharing royalties.  He produced it with colorful, original artwork to prevent confusion and potential fraud.  ( See artwork )

Years after the game was discovered (but before the game was sold) it was discovered that Red Sea Crossing was advertised in the October 7, 1983 issue of Christianity Today . According to the magazine advertisements, the game was supposed to come with a coloring book and an audio tape, but we have yet to see any of those items surface.

Back in late 2018, there were a couple more copies had shown up on eBay.  One didn’t have an end label on it. The one auction spooked a lot of enthusiasts as it had very odd wording on the listing and didn’t even reference Atari at all.  It turns out, the sellers were pawn shop owners that just didn’t know much about what they had and tried to shill bids and such.  As a result, the auction didn’t sell for as much as some past sales.  It did end up in the hands of a true collector, however and all was well.

In conclusion, there have only been four cartridges of Red Sea Crossing that have surfaced.  However, if an original copy ever is sold with the original coloring book and/or the audio cassette (no official box was released), I’m sure it could climb much higher on this list – possibly beating out the complete copy of Air Raid.

The highest recorded sale of Red Sea Crossing was for $13,900 back in 2012.  With a full decade passing and a copy of Extra Terrestrials (see below) selling in 2018 for $16,500, I’m posting a “conservative” estimate of $17,000 for Red Sea Crossing as there are half as many known copies.

  • Check for Red Sea Crossing on eBay

Extra Terrestrials:   $7,000 – $16,500

(No Aftermarket Sales)

The first four of the known, confirmed copies (including the one prototype) are either in the possession of the Personal Computer Museum of Canada or in the hands of the original programmer, Herman Quast. The first cartridge found and donated to the museum was actually a prototype. The museum contacted Mr. Quast who donated one of his personal copies to the Museum for dumping of the ROM and for presentation. Another museum volunteer knew somebody that also had a copy and it was arranged to be donated to the museum and not sold.

Partnering with Good Deal Games, the Museum produced 100 authorized but limited edition reproductions that were shipped in December of 2011. The funds were used to support the Personal Computer Museum.

In the summer of 2018, an experienced collector, known as beardman32 on AtariAge, managed to find a 5th copy of Extra Terrestrials at a yard sale (that was only with an hour drive of his home in Ontario, Canada).   There was a Vectrex and an Atari 2600 with a box of about 40 games for sale for $100.  He scooped it up, but didn’t dig through it until he got home.  He noticed this weird blue cartridge and started searching about it online. Interestingly enough, this guide was what he read through to confirm how exciting a discovery the game was.   He shared his discover on this AtariAge thread — he ended up getting a handful of bids before confirming he sold the cartridge for $16,500 .

The owner of the company that originally produced Extra Terrestrials believes that there were “a few hundred copies” produced. The company lost significant money on the game and no resources were kept.

There was supposedly a box for Extra Terrestrials but one has not surfaced.

Gamma Attack: $6,000 – $14,000

The dilemma is made especially evident in the case of Gamma Attack for the 2600. The game was published in 1983 by Gammation, a company that had previously developed a couple of rapid-fire adapters for the Atari system. Gammation, headed up by programmer, Robert L. Esken, Jr. decided to try their hand at game design with Gamma Attack – a game where you attack tanks on the ground with a zooming flying saucer – seemingly to make good use of their rapid fire accessories. There was only a handful of cartridges produced and sales failed to materialize.

Currently, there is one copy known to exist, in the hands of collector Anthony DeNardo (known as Phantom on AtariAge). Mr. DeNardo picked it up in a large lot of games from somebody his brother knew. He initially thought it may have been a random homebrew game, but he asked about it over at AtariAge Forums to get more information. After the excitement of the discovery, he put the game up for auction on eBay in February 2008 for a Buy-It-Now Price of $500,000. He wasn’t really expecting anyone to jump at that price, but instead he wanted to bring attention to the find and get people talking.

Since 2008, Gamma Attack has gone from mysterious legend to something that has become much more substantial and obtainable. The ROM of Gamma Attack has been released, and in 2008 Gammation unveiled GammAttack4, a re-release of the game for PC emulators. Also, in 2009, Mr. Esken rebooted the Gammation brand to work on selling official re-releases of the game in limited quantities. It stated in an awkward way, but you can read more about this interesting development in our full backstory of Gamma Attack . (Of course, now you can also occasionally find unauthorized reproductions of the game on eBay ).

Without the lone known original copy changing hands or other mystery copies surfacing, it is hard to place a value on it. Back when originally published this Rare & Valuable Atari 2600 guide in 2009, we had Gamma Attack valued between $5,000 and $10,000. We based this quote at Mr. DeNardo’s personal value estimation in 2008, but he confessed that he had received even larger offers for the title. In 2013, we were estimating an unusually wide range of $17,000 to $50,000 if the game ever went on auction. This was due to the excitement over the title at the time and its relative rarity compared to other games on this list. Now that we have spent more time on comparative research done and viewing the sales of the “official re-releases”, we are valuing the cartridge just below that of sale prices of Birthday Mania and Red Sea Crossing mentioned above.   You can read more about how we value Gamma Attack and other super-rare titles in this extra guide .

Superman (Sears Telegames Picture-Labeled Version): $4,000 – $12,000

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However, if you have the Sears version that has the yellow text and the picture of Superman on it ( see comparison shot with the standard release ), you’re in luck. It is the rarest of the Sears Telegames variants and the cartridge alone can fetch a few thousand dollars. A boxed copy (with a blue box instead of the typical red) was surprisingly sold on eBay for over $10,000 in November 2012.  Since an extra decade of increased collecting has passed, we will bump up our high-end appraisal a modest amount from there.

On a side note, it is interesting to see this AtariAge thread from earlier in 2012 where Atari fans had a hard time wanting to pay even a small premium for a text color variation. I can’t say I would have been any different at the time, but it is interesting how the online collecting market has changed our thinking over just a few years.

Back in late 2012, the cartridge was going for about $1,000, but since more attention was drawn to it with the sale of the boxed copy, a loose copy could easily sell for $4,000 if marketed well.

In addition to being one of the rarest Atari variants, the Superman game is also one of the first licensed video games (released in 1979) and was built off prototype code for Warren Robinett’s Adventure (and was published before Adventure’s completion).

I could understand why a publisher may have switched to a text-only label in order to save on production costs, but it’s a curious decision to change the text color AND box color for such a small print run.

  • Check for Superman (hunt for rare variations) on eBay

Atlantis II: $1,000 – $6,000

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In this special release, the gameplay is much faster, the scoring system has been slightly altered from the original, and enemy ships are worth far less points than the original version. Copies of the cartridge were sent to the top players in the “Defend Atlantis” competition, primarily because there were far more than four people capable of maxing out the score in the original Atlantis. Of those receiving the cartridge, four were chosen and sent to Bermuda for the final round of the competition, where the winner won $10,000. The game looks identical to Atlantis, though a sticker with “Atlantis II” typed on it was stuck to the front of the box. ( Read our guide on how to tell the difference between an original Atlantis cartridge and a rare Atlantis II cartridge ) It is unknown who won the competition, but some of the original contestants still have the Atlantis II cartridge .  It isn’t clear how many of these cartridges were distributed, but several sources have mentioned that there are “less than 100” units in existence.

There was an eBay auction in April for 2016 for an Atlantis II cartridge that closed at about $1000. The auction wasn’t publicized heavily and only had three bids. However, due to this lower sale price, we are lowering our price range for this game. On the flip side, there’s currently an auction (in November 2021) of a copy with an asking price of nearly $25,000 ….

  • Check for Atlantis II on eBay

Out of Control: $250 – $8000

Avalon Hill ended up publishing five different Atari 2600 titles and released Out of Control in the middle of the video game crash of 1983. The game remains as their rarest release (Death Trap is another one of their treasures, but a bit more common). The company is still around today, publishing board games and computer games.

For those interested, the objective of Out of Control is to weave your ship through space buoys and pop several balloons before executing a perfect landing in a space station. Loose cartridges show up on eBay fairly regularly for under $300, but the boxed copy were going for well over $2,000 up until 2020.  In August of 2021, however, a pretty solid boxed copy sold for $8,000

  • Check for Out of Control on eBay

Karate – Ultravision release: $850-$6000

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Things didn’t work out as they hoped, and in the end, they only released two Atari 2600 games (Karate and Condor Attack), and they were released under Froggo and K-Kel’s labels respectively. The game software remains consistent through all the Ultravision and Froggo Games releases. Even though it was supposedly designed with the help of black belt Joseph Amelio, it is considered one of the worst games in the Atari 2600 library.

Interestingly enough, there are actually two variation within Karate’s rare production run. One is a more traditional black square cartridge case while another has a T-shaped handle. Back in our 2018 edition, we were seeing roughly equal value of both of these variations.  However, in 2022, we’ve seen a handled version sell for only $825 (vs the $2500 low-end values we were seeing before).  But we did see a combined sale of a T-Handled Karate and Condor Attack (shown below) for $7,500 .  So between this new data, we’ve widened our pricing range on the top and bottom end and will lean towards the T-Handle being more in-demand.

Of course, on top of the cartridge values stated above, the Ultravision box holds significant value as well if you ever find one.

Classifications of some of the games on this list can be tricky, but the Ultravision Karate release might be the rarest and most valuable licensed retail cartridge on the Atari 2600. Nobody has seen a boxed copy of the game surface, but if one showed up for sale in excellent condition, the value could top the boxed yellow-label Superman and get into the $12,000 to $18,000 range.

  • Check for Karate (Ultravision) eBay

Lochjaw: $750 – $6500

The point of the game is to grab as many diamonds as possible without letting the shark get you. If the shark does get you, he eats you, just as he eats any diamonds he comes into contact with. The Loch Ness Monster can also be found hiding in various undersea caves, and will hunt the player down if disturbed.

In 2012, we had Lochjaw priced at $300 for a loose copy and $1375 for a boxed copy, but there have been a number of exchanges since that time. In 2013, two different loose copies sold for $600 and $310 respectively on eBay. In July of 2017 a loose copy also sold on eBay for $550. We also happened to see a loose copy that came with a torn manual sell for $900 in January of 2017. By 2022, we saw loose carts climb up to the $750 range.  We also have some data on complete copies of Lochjaw: a collector is offering $6,000 for a boxed copy in very good shape on AtariAge. And another offer for $7000 here .

There may only be a handful of boxed copies of this rarity in existence, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that bidding could get intense should someone want to part with one.

  • Check for Lochjaw on eBay

River Patrol: $900 – $4000

Back in 2009, the game was valued between $300 and $500, but in 2012, the game cartridge (without box) was sold on eBay for $760. A complete in-box copy sold for $3500 on eBay a few years ago (and also a side-offer in October of 2017 for $3500 as well), but there have been offers of paying $4,000 for a complete boxed copy in very good condition on AtariAge in 2017.  Most recently, we’ve seen a loose cart sell for $900 in 2022.

  • Check for River Patrol on eBay

Gauntlet: $600 – $3000

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The game was mail-order only from Answer Software and was not contained in a box, instead coming in a foam case. We haven’t really seen much activity on this release in recent years. Copies back in the early 2000s went for about $3,000. However, at the end of 2012, a copy sold for only $600.

There has only been one or two boxes copies showing up. With more copies of Air Raid surfacing these last 5 years, Gauntlet stands as rarer than Air Raid in both loose and boxed form. If more units would surface and go up for sale, we might see these valuations rise. This particular title could be a good investment if somebody finds it for a price under $1000 or with a box as it just doesn’t get enough attention.

  • Check for Gauntlet on eBay

Pepsi Invaders: $815 – $2200

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Instead of waves of aliens being fended off, the player must shoot invading letters that say PEPSI, as well as a flying Pepsi logo that replaced the flying saucer at the top of the screen. The game also includes a three-minute timer to test player skills. The games were originally distributed on black cartridges without a label, but there are white boxes with a small, red, circular label with the words “Atari goes better with Coke” on the left side . There have been a number of fan-made labels designed for the cartridges over the years. There are some nicely-designed ones showing up frequently as reproductions on eBay , etsy, etc. (like shown on the illustration here to the right)

There have been a few sales in the $800 to $900 range in 2012 and in 2014. But there have been larger verified sales on eBay including a 2005 sale for $1,825, a 2010 sale for $2,125, a $3500 sale in 2013 and a $2000 sale in 2017.

  • Check for Pepsi Invaders eBay

Eli’s Ladder: $800 – $2400

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The game did not come with a box, but it did come with instructions, a certificate, console overlays, a worksheet/wall chart, and motivational stickers for children, which are especially difficult to find. Those worksheets that have been found haven’t been spotted with stickers applied, so they may not have actually made it in the hands of many actual children for educational purposes.

There are about 15 known copies circulating with about four of them having some extras/documentation. We haven’t seen any complete copies go up for sale in recent years – only loose copies – some of which have end labels missing. Over the last ten years, these loose carts have ranged from $516 to $1500, (but it is safe to say the value has edged up a bit over the few years). If a complete copy were to go up for auction today, it could easily fetch over $2000 if promoted properly.

  • Check for Eli’s Ladder on eBay

The Music Machine: $400 – $2000 – $5500

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This game was the only video game release by Sparrow and a Music Machine LP was released at the same time which contained several inspirational songs which could be listened to at the same time. A loose cartridge of The Music Machine routinely show up on eBay every few months and typically sell for between $300 and $500 (instructions has increased the price to $750). A boxed copy just recently sold in July 2017 for $1,825  and another boxed copy had sold for $1602 in 2016 (also $3000 has been offered for a complete on AtariAge ). However, sealed copy sold on eBay for $5250.00 in 2009 and for $5,500 in January of 2017.

  • Check for The Music Machine on eBay

Cubicolor: $1,200 – $1,500

There was an eBay auction in October 2012 that mentioned that the cartridge included an “original letter from Rob about the game, [which] also included is the packing envelope and game instructions .The letter and envelope both have Rob’s company logo on it (PF. Magic). In the letter he mentions being flattered that anybody would pay attention to these games anymore. He also talks about his fascination with Rubik’s Cube, and Cubicolor being designed and programmed in 8 weeks. He goes on to say he kept 50 copies of the ROM and guaranteed that no more will ever be made.” If you would like to see more pictures of the cart and the letter from Rob Fulop, check out this archived copy of the eBay auction contents .

  • Check for Cubicolor on eBay

Mangia: $400 – $1150

This is a black cartridge Spectravision release, but was only released in the US through the Columbia House Record Club. PAL releases of the game sometimes sell for less than $200, but NTSC cartridges have sold for between $400 and $870 (with the manual adding to the value) over the last three years.

A complete boxed copy sold for $1150 in 2013. Also a boxed copy that was missing the instruction manual just sold in December 2012 for $1000. There is some debate on whether the NTSC boxes are different from PAL boxes or not. Supposedly, there is a sticker that make it a true NTSC box (similar to the barcodes on some rare NTSC Sega Master System games ) .

  • Check for Mangia on eBay

Xante Releases: $800 – $4450 individually

Games released this way include Alien, Solar Storm, No Escape, Demon Attack, Beany Bopper, and Crypts of Chaos. There are certain Brazilian releases with the same-style cartridge, such as Spacegame, but these generally are worth the same amount, so don’t feel bad if it turns out not to be a Xante cart. It’s still worth quite a bit. When we did our last revision of this guide in 2012, the last eBay sale of a Xante release was Beany Bopper in October 2012 for $579. In September 2016, a copy of Worm War 1 sold for $1025. Many of the other loose sales in the last couple of years were selling for the $800 to $1300 range.  July of 2017 saw the following sales: MAS*H (with box) for $4450  and Deadly Duck for $3707

If you’re interested in learning more about these interesting cartridges, you can see some interesting pictures and discussions on this AtariAge thread

  • Check for Xante Releases on eBay

Malagai: $300 – $3000

This title from Answer Software tries to jump onto the Pac-Man bandwagon with a maze-based game that puts you in the shoes of Commander Harrington Crag who must pursue “Malagai” aliens within his troubled starship. The player must touch the aliens in the correct order to unlock the airlock before a time ends.

Much like Gauntlet (also from Answer Software), Malagai was a mail-order only game and game in a foam case instead of a box. A bare cartridge sold for $355 in August of 2016  and $275 in August 2017 on eBay. A sealed copy of Malagai sold for over $2300 on eBay but there are probably only a handful of sealed copies in existence. More recently, in 2018, an unsealed complete copy sold privately on AtariAge for about $2600.  In 2022, we actually saw a couple loose carts sell, for $615 and $700, respectively.

  • Check for Malagai on eBay

Quadrun: $350 – $ 2,500

While the game might not have appealed to the girls, the game is still more interesting than many other games in the 2600 library and was the first Atari game to utilize voice synthesis (the only other was Open Sesame).

Through most of the 2010s, loose copies of Quadrun routinely showed up on eBay for under $200, and complete copies could fetch a range between $400 and $700.  However, Quadrun has seen a solid uptick in recent years with loose copies running for between $240 and $515 while a mint complete copy recently sold for $2500 .  This recent jump has seen Quadrun accomplish the biggest jump on this list of the higher-ranked treasures.

  • Check for Quadrun on eBay

Condor Attack – Ultravision Release: $500 – $2,000 ($2900 Sealed)

In November 2012, a boxed, albeit roughed-up copy, sold for $1340. A more pristine copy sold a month earlier for over $1800 . In July 2017, a boxed copy in Germany sold for $1575. The bare cartridge sold for $350 in August 2017.  Interestingly enough, a sealed Condor Attack was found in a storage locker and then sold on eBay for $2900. Just another example of finding some treasures in oddball places.

  • Check for Condor Attack (Ultravision) on eBay

X-Man: $250 – $2000 ($6500 Sealed)

X-Man eventually received some media attention and faced protest from women’s groups. Understandably, most retailers declined to carry it – or if they did, it was restricted to adults or kept under-the-counter. X-Man cartridges could also be purchased via mail order, and an ad inviting such purchases appeared in at least one gaming magazine. A full-page ad can be found in the July 1983 issue of Videogaming Illustrated. Obviously, with all these restrictions, it has been hard to track down a copy. It should be noted, however that the game is easier to find in PAL format than the rarer NTSC version. It is rumored that there are between 20 and 45 cartridges of this game in the wild.

It has been incredibly difficult to find complete copies of the game, but there are standing offers from established collectors on Atari Age for $1500 to $2000 . There was also a graded sealed copy that sold on eBay in February 2018 for $6500.

  • Check for X-Man on eBay

Cakewalk: $350 – $1500

This gem was published by CommaVid, one of the more innovative mail-order game publishers of the era. While their games weren’t the most popular, they tried to do interesting things with the limited hardware they dealt with.

Other titles from CommaVid include MagiCard and Video Life (two not-really-games mentioned below), Stronghold (mentioned below) and Cosmic Swarm. Cakewalk cartridges had been hovering around the $150 range for many years as of our previous 2018 guide, but more recently in 2022, a loose cart has sold for $350.  Complete copies have sold for $1500 historically, but we haven’t seen a recent example.

  • Check for Cakewalk on eBay

BMX Airmaster – Atari release: $300 – $900

Before you get excited about the BMX Airmaster cartridge in your collection, we will note that TNT Games originally published this game on the 2600 and that variation isn’t terribly uncommon. However, late in this game’s production, Atari bought the rights from TNT and produced a limited number of their own cartridges under their own label. Of these produced, fewer sold, making it difficult to find a copy of Atari’s BMX Airmaster. Don’t be fooled by the “RARE” label you see on most auction sites next to this game: rarely is it really the rare Atari version.

  • Check for BMX Airmaster (Atari version) on eBay

Swordquest Waterworld: $150 – $1500

Each game would come with a comic book to explain the plot and would also be some of the earliest examples of combining narrative with twitch gameplay.

Earthworld sold around 500,000 copies, 5,000 players ended up submitting answers, and only 8 players had all the correct answers to grant them access to the tournament. Fireworld sold well but had a much better turnout of correct answers, so there was an essay phase to narrow down to 50 tournament participants.

Instead of being sold in wide retail distribution at launch, the third installment, Waterworld was only available to Atari Club members who purchased via mail order, starting in February of 1984. The contest for Waterworld was abruptly ended in the middle of 1984 by the request of Tramel CEO, Jack Tramiel, after his company bought out Atari during their financial troubles.

This title has edged up nicely since our last revision in 2012. Bare copies were previously going for about $85 and complete for $400, but in the last five years, values have almost doubled.

An Ultra-complete copy (with all the inserts/posters/etc) sold for over $800 in October of 2018 on eBay and a rather nice complete copy went for $500 on eBay as well.  More recently, in 2022, we’ve seen another Ultra-complete copy sell for $1500 .  However, most complete copies typically fetch between $300 and $450. Bare cartridges have recently been selling for a range of $130 to $250

  • Check for Swordquest Waterworld on eBay

Stronghold: $150 – $1300

The gameplay isn’t especially typical for the era, but seems more of an effective hybrid of some other games. I can sense inspirations from Robotron: 2084, Breakout, and Defender.

Cartridges were going for the $130 to $200 ranger the last 5 or 6 years. A Cartridge with a manual was sold for $350 on eBay in both 2017 and 2022. Complete copies are going for $900 to $1300, when they appear.

Check for Stronghold on eBay

Spider Maze: $150 – $225

This game from K-Tel Vision was sold exclusively in Canada and distributed in Europe. The K-Tel corporation was previously known for selling disco compilations and teflon pots and pans on late-night TV. The decided to create a software division to jump on the video game bandwagon in the mid–80s. K-Tel Vision’s only other title was Vulture Attack, which was also rather limited and mentioned below. The company ended up filing for bankruptcy in 1986.

The K-Tel’s games featured unusual handles on the cartridge and rather randomly odd artwork that has nothing to do with the game. It is also easier to find in PAL format as it had more distribution overseas. ( Comparisons )  One weird thing that has surfaced is that some old Ultravision cartridges seem to have been sold off to K-Tel and re-labeled for K-Tel games

  • Check for Spider Maze on eBay

Tooth Protectors: $200 – $600

Tooth Protectors was an interesting marketing tool in which you play as the Tooth Protector to save teeth from the Snack Attack. To do this, you must knock back the crumbs that Snack Attack shoots at you. If a tooth takes too much damage, you can clean it by using your trusty Reach toothbrush, Johnson and Johnson dental floss and Act fluoride mouthwash.

Since it was only a mail-order release, there isn’t a retail box. However, one recent eBay sale featured the original styrofoam formed backing that was included in the mailer.

  • Check for Tooth Protectors on eBay

Chase the Chuck Wagon: $130-$1000

Over a decade ago, Chase the Chuck Wagon was one of the most iconic Atari 2600 game collectibles, but it was often pointed out by hardcore collectors that there were many more games out there that were far more rare. Since then, we have seen numerous games that were previously undocumented show up as the new “holy grails” of Atari 2600 collecting while more copies of Chase the Chuck Wagon cartridges continue to surface. Of course, a complete copy is still quite hard to find, so it is still worth looking out for.

For much of the 2010s, Chase the Chuckwagon kinda lounged near the bottom of this list, almost falling off at times.  However, the 2020s-era collecting boom has seen a resurgence in collecting this piece.  In the past decade, loose carts of Chase the Chuckwagon could be scored for about $65 and complete copies topped off at about $400.  However, this year we’ve been seeing units sell for pretty much double that ( including this pristine complete copy with pure, shiny foil box ) — the strongest 5 year jump on this list!

  • Check for Chase the Chuck Wagon on eBay

Wizard Video Red Label Horror: $120 – $750

Halloween (Wizard Red Label): $150 – $750 Texas Chainsaw Massacre (Wizard Red Label): $120 – $570

To make things more interesting, Wizard Video ended up selling a good chunk of cartridges with the name written in black marker (sometimes misspelled) to reduce labeling costs. Not surprisingly, the labeled version is more popular with collectors, but the unlabeled version may be slightly more rare. Complete in Box copies of Halloween have been selling recently for $500 to $700 and Texas Chainsaw Massacre have been trading for just under those values.

  • Check for Halloween on eBay
  • Check for Texas Chainsaw Massacre on eBay

Great Escape: $230 – $500

Bomb titles are very difficult to find in the US due to limited distribution, although they are easier to find outside of the US in PAL format.  Other titles from Bomb include Assault, Wall Defender, and Z-Tack (see below).  I’ve noticed some casual Atari fans end up including “Bomb” in the title of the games. It’s hard to blame them upon reviewing the game box. Bomb put their name in the prominent position of the artwork at more than twice the size of the actual name of the game.

  • Check for Great Escape on eBay

Astérix (NTSC Version): $230-$500

journey atari game value

The Atari 2600’s AstĂ©rix game had full distribution across Europe, but it also happened to be at the time of Atari’s decline in the region.

Atari decided to make an extra NTSC-specific print run of the game. Rumor is that it mostly, if not exclusively, targeted Canada. It is uncertain if the game was ever retailed in the United States at all. As a result, it’s considered one of the rarest NTSC Atari 2600 games out there — especially for an “official” release.

Distinguishing the versions visually can be a bit tricky. Based on the diagnosis on this AtariAge thread , there are a few signs of an NTSC game: No “P” sticker under the end label, a green intro screen, and the score and character are yellow on the game screen.

  • Check for Asterix on eBay

Q*Bert’s Qubes: $120 – $600

Much like other games in the series, the player navigates Q*Bert around a plane of cubes (this time more free-standing) while avoiding enemies. Jumping on a cube causes it to change the color (rotates in arcade and other ports). The goal is to match of the line of cubes to the target color.

The Atari 2600 version was released in 1984 / 1985 – right at the tail end of the video game crash that started in 1983. The original arcade version didn’t get a lot of attention, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that the poorly-timed Atari 2600 version didn’t get much distribution either.

  • Check for Q*Bert’s Qubes on eBay

Video Jogger & Video Reflex Bundle (w/ Foot Craz Activity Pad): $300 – $1500

journey atari game value

You might be able to scrape together a little collection of the loose game cartridges and the pad itself for under $300 (some loose copies of the games have sold for $75 as a pair a decade ago), but, as you can imagine, the real money is when you have the packaging, manuals and such.

It’s also worth noting that supposedly there were a lot of the game cartridges liquidated a while back ( more info here , but we still don’t see a lot of the surface. I’ve seen even fewer of the Foot Craz Activity Pad.

Back in 2018, an AtariAge member sold a pretty much complete set for approximately $1,200 USD . It had the boxed Foot Craz controller and the games with custom game boxes and manuals. However, the official manual was missing from the Controller bundle. These items don’t surface often and if there was a fully complete set sold on eBay, I think it could easily sell for $1500 or more as we enter this 2020s market.

  • Check for Video Jogger / Video Reflex on eBay

Rare Atari 2600 Carts That Aren’t Really Games

Videolife. $2000 – $7000.

  • Check for VideoLife on eBay

MagiCard $900 – $2400

journey atari game value

  • Check for MagiCard on eBay

Color Bar Generator: $230 – $480

journey atari game value

  • Check for Color Bar Generator on eBay

ECPC Cartridges: $150-$695

journey atari game value

  • Check for ECPC Cartridges  on eBay

Copy Cart – $300 – $1000

journey atari game value

  • Check for Copy  Cart on eBay

Boxed Copies Only

Below, we will highlight some games that are fairly inexpensive as a bare cartridge, but have a high premium for a complete/boxed copy.

Math Gran Prix (Sears Telegames Release): $230 – $700 There are plenty of copies of the standard Atari release of this game, and it’s a bit more difficult to find the Sears Telegames variation of this cart (can be found for $10 or so) but even experienced Atari collectors think it’s easier to find cartridges of some of the games at the top of this list than it is to find a box for this game variation.

  • Check for Math Grand Prix on eBay

Up ’n Down $150 – $500 This interesting arcade port from Sega had a boxed copy show up  in 2016 and sold for $1000 on a 7 day ebay auction (we haven’t seen anything replicated like that in recent years, however). Cartridges are showing up with some regularity (going for about $20 to $40), but you rarely ever see the box come up for sale.

  • Check for Up ‘n Down on eBay

Xonox Single-End Games: $300 – $1000 individually Xonox was a division of K-Tel software (see Spider Maze above) which published eight different games at the peak of the Atari 2600’s popularity and tried to push the novelty and consumer value of two games being on one double-ended cartridges. They eventually gave up on this concept and released each of the games as single-ended cartridges. Many of the single cartridges are rather hard to find even as bare cartridges, but usually sell for about $20 to $40. The boxed copies, on the other hand go for a nice chunk of change. Here’s some examples of complete-in-box valuations (single-ended unless specified):

  • Spikes Peak: $500-$1000 ( eBay )
  • Chuck Norris Superkicks: $400-$550 ( eBay )
  • Sir Lancelot: $350 ( eBay )
  • Motocross Racer: $300-$400 ( eBay )
  • Chuck Norris/Spikes Peak Double-Ender: $300–600 ( eBay )

Cannon Man (Sears Telegames Variation): $400 Much like Superman and Math Gran Prix, this Sears release is quite difficult to find with all the cardboard in good shape.

  • Check for Cannon Man on eBay

Additional Games of Value

There are quite a few other rare and valuable Atari 2600 titles. If interested in finding more information, the website AtariAge.com keeps lists of rare titles and offers a forum for those interested in Atari collecting. Here’s just a few other titles that are rare, valuable, or both:

  • Spike’s Peak (people have offered over $500 for CIB but never comes up for sale): $65-$650 ( eBay )
  • Rescue Terra: $200-$500 ( eBay )
  • Glib: $100-$600 ( eBay )
  • Z-Tack: $60-$600 ( eBay )
  • Subterranea: $65-$565 ( eBay )
  • Guardian: $90-$500 ( eBay )
  • Mr. Do’s Castle: $80-$500 ( eBay )
  • Miner 2049er Volume II: $105-$465 ( eBay )
  • Basic Math: $15-$500 ( eBay )
  • Vulture Attack: $150-$350 ( eBay )
  • Treasure Below (PAL Exclusive): $40-$440  ( eBay )
  • Mission Survive (PAL Exclusive): $37-$430  ( eBay )
  • Berenstain Bears: $60-$400 ( eBay )
  • Scuba Diver: $50-$400 ( eBay )
  • Pac-Man (Grey Box Kay Bee Stores): $50-$400 ( eBay )
  • Custer’s Revenge: $105-$345 ( eBay )
  • Boing!: $90-$350 ( eBay )
  • Crazy Climber (Silver): $110-$300 ( eBay )
  • Shuttle Orbiter: $80-$305 ( eBay )
  • Sir Lancelot: $70-$300 ( eBay )
  • Motocross/Tomarc: 100-$250 ( eBay )
  • Gremlins (Original Red Logo Background): $50-$250 ($400 Sealed) ( eBay )
  • Krokodile: $60-$190  ( eBay )
  • Rush Hour: $60-$190 ( eBay )
  • Springer: $60-$185 ( eBay )
  • Assault: $60-$180 ( eBay )
  • The Power of He-Man: $28-$210 ($345 Sealed) ( eBay )
  • Gas Hog: $28-$200 ($450 Sealed) ( eBay )
  • Wall Defender: $30-$180 ( eBay )
  • Fade Out: $45-$150 ( eBay )
  • Philly Flasher / Cathouse Blues: $50-$135 ( eBay )
  • Cosmic Corridor: $25-$150 ( eBay )
  • GI Joe Cobra Strike (With Color Label): $50-$100 ($170 Sealed) ( eBay )

38 Comments

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Another Great Article. Pretty sure I remember seeing a Copy Cart somewhere, but that was long ago! Thanks for the list Racket!

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Had chase the chuckwagon, bought it for $2.00 and sold it for 75.00! currently have swordquest waterworld! I would love to find one of the extremely rare titles though!…I should of kept chase the chuck wagon!

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I have a complete working prototype copy of Quadrun and it’s not synthesis saying Quadrun, it’s a digital sound sample. Notice the screen blanks when that clip plays. Digital sound on the 2600 is hard to do. I also have a playable prototype of Sinistar. a friend of mine has a complete prototype copy of Crazy Climber which I’m surprised you didn’t even mention!

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A sealed copy of The Music Machine just sold on Ebay for $5,250

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I just found a copy of Glib for the 2600. That’s a pretty rare title that’s not listed here. It’s about $75-$100 for Cart only. But my girlfriend got it for a steal at $17 for my birthday. Pretty minty cart, too.

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I sold a copy of Tooth Protectors on ebay about 10 years ago for about $115. It wasn’t it perfect shape, but it did still play.

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The Romox ECPC programmable cartridge titles listed are not Atari 2600 titles. Romox made similar cartridges for other consoles and computers, and of course each system had its own list of titles. Castles and Keys, Flapper, Bartender, and Topper can be found for the Atari 400/800 home computer systems, and possibly others.

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I was in the original Atlantis contest and have a cartridge Imagic sent me to get into their competition. The cartridge looks exactly like the original cartridge and the only way to tell the difference between the two is to plug them in and play. I’m able to do this on my machine but was wondering if this is the same cartridge talked about when someone says Atlantis II?? Any comments would be appreciated. I also have many other cartridges and believe it or not am the original owner of almost all of them.

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Victor, considering only a few Atlantis II cartridges were released, there’s only speculation. AtariAge claims that Atlantis II has not only a different style font for keeping score in the game, but also the cartridge picture is the “Night Scene” instead of Atlantis’ “Day Scene”. So, I’d say go play it and see.

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the main difference is the text…

atlantis II had a unique font in the game..

if the text is different,ya got one of the 12 rumoured atlantis 2 carts…

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I knew The Music Machine was rare, but it was even nicer that I managed to get if off of eBay remarkably cheap. I have the rarer version that’s black and has the triangular indents in the sides. My goal as a collector is to get most of these titles as complete as possible. Air Raid, well…that’s a long shot. @Jason: I’ll consider buying your Coleco Voice Module, shoot me a PM and I’d be glad to negotiate.

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To someone who asked if Texas Chainsaw Massacre is worth money. It’s value is about $300,according to an episode of Angry Video Game Nerd, Currently there’s a cart on eBay running for $500 buy it now, manual included.

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I recently rediscovered my old stash of games from childhood and learned I might have some rare WIP versions of Halloween and some prototype Starpath games. Anyone help me figure out their rarity? Details and pictures here: http://www.atariage.com/forums/topic/174969-demounfinished-versions-of-games-found/page__st__25

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I just found a copy of “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” for my Atari 2600 about 3 weeks ago. Awesome! \m/

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Since it’s probably the only time I’ll have anything on this list, I figure I’ll mention this here. I actually own a copy of Music Machine for 2600 and put a short video up on YouTube of me playing it! Go here to check it out: http://youtu.be/Sh163BZw5rY

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I was a bit suprised that Video Reflex went up to $950! I got my copy for a steal!

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@jimmy flahive. No The ones that were returned were the ones that were unsold which were most of them which atari burried in the desert along with Pac man, However both games are amongst the best selling atari 2600 games Pacman alone sold 7 million carts and atari still had millions left over ET itself sold over a million copies. Atari had unrealistic slales expectations and produced millions of carts. Even if the games were critical hits Atari would still likely been left with a bunch of unsold carts as they were producing more carts then there ere Atari 2600’s Call of duty Modern Warfare 3 is one of the best selling Xbox 360 games at 14.23 million copies. the 360 itself has sold 67 million units even if you factor in people buying multiple systems you still got a large gap between the two. So atari really did have unrealistic sales expectations. So most likely there are still carts out there that were sold but it’s not really any more rare than most Atari 2600 carts.

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Im sitting on 1 copy of each of these: The musuc machine Chase the chuck wagon Montezumas revenge.

Plus 150 other wonderful memories from childhood:)

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That would be included in the NES section, not the Atari 2600 guide http://www.racketboy.com/retro/nintendo/nes/the-rarest-and-most-valuable-nes-games

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Hello! I’d love a little more information on the font differences in Atlantis vs. Atlantis II. Any suggestions on what to look for? I have a night scene version of one or the other. Also, I am interested in finding out any information on Donkey Kong with a French label. Any suggestions? Thanks!

I’ve just added a guide for Atlantis vs Atlantis II http://www.racketboy.com/retro/atari/rarest-and-most-valuable-atari-2600-games This is to go with the updated guide. I hadn’t heard about the Donkey Kong label…

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says right in the article that there are no outside differences…you have to buy several versions and compare the speed and score amounts. I have seen hundreds of the Atlantis games and a few sword-quest water-world at the local flea markets….time for some weekend searching !!

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Any chance an Atari Jaguar list will hit soon?? Still clinging tight to my AvP cart.

Maybe sometime — I’ve got a bunch that I’m trying to catch up on after coming back from hiatus. This one just got update this week and I’m plugging away at more! Thanks for your support!

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You want to hear a real horrorfest? I’m now 47 years old and I had pretty much all of the Atari 2600 games you could get at a retail store back in the 80s I even had the 5200 with a good amount of games as well,all in perfect condition. I loved those Atari games and I kept them all these years then when I momentarily moved back to my parents house around 1998 my brother went through all of my things that I kept there and gave all my Atari stuff to my sister in law who didn’t even want it and threw it all away in the trash! I was SO PISSED!!! I said to my brother…who the hell are you to go through my things and then give it away!?? He says why do you want that stuff for? Its out dated. I said because I loved those games and second because they belonged to me!! What a f’ ing dickhead! I’ll never get over that ever!.!!!!!! That is how my brothers mentality is,he still thinks I’m wrong! The stuff belonged to me ,nothing else be said!

That does stink! That is weird for him to give them away…. Thanks for sharing the story though. If you ever want to share some of the stories behind the store stuff, lemme know.

' src=

That’s my comparison shot for Superman. Haha, never thought it would make it into an article. LOL.

http://atariage.com/forums/topic/200108-help-with-id-rarity-of-superman-game/?hl=sears%20superman

This is my 2012 post about the game.

Well thank you for the contribution! I JUST updated the guide too, so I hope you find it useful!

' src=

It’s great that you’re starting to up date the Rare & Valuable sections!! I hope you keep updating all the other systems.

Thanks for your support! It’s been a very interesting process — I hope everyone enjoys it!

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Retro Gaming 101

Retro Gaming 101

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Defining Games

Discover the games that gave each machine its personality.

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Most Valuable

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How Much Is My Old Atari Worth? A Guide to Determining the Value of Your Retro Gaming Treasure

If you’re a fan of retro gaming, chances are you’ve come across an old Atari console at some point. Whether it’s gathering dust in your attic or sitting neglected on a shelf, you may be curious about its worth. In this guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of Atari collecting and help you determine the value of your old gaming treasure. From rare and sought-after games to the condition and packaging of your Atari system, we’ll explore all the factors that contribute to its potential value. So, if you’ve ever wondered how much your old Atari is worth, keep reading to find out!

Table of Contents

Understanding The Rarity And Demand Of Atari Systems

If you’re wondering about the value of your old Atari, it’s important to first understand the rarity and demand of Atari systems in the current market. Atari systems, especially the iconic Atari 2600, hold a special place in retro gaming history and are highly sought after by collectors.

The rarity of Atari systems can vary depending on the specific model and its production numbers. Generally, earlier models such as the Atari 2600 “heavy sixer” are considered rarer and therefore more valuable. Limited editions or special releases, like the Atari 2600 “Darth Vader” console, can also fetch a higher price.

Demand for Atari systems is driven by nostalgia and collectors’ appreciation for the pioneering role Atari played in the gaming industry. As more people seek to relive their childhood memories or add to their gaming collections, the demand for Atari systems continues to rise.

When determining the value of your Atari system, take into account its rarity, condition, and the current market demand. Understanding these factors will help you make a more accurate assessment of how much your old Atari is worth.

Evaluating The Condition And Completeness Of Your Atari

When determining the value of your old Atari system, one crucial aspect to consider is the condition and completeness of your Atari console and accessories. The overall physical state of the system, including any signs of wear, damage, or functionality issues, will greatly impact its worth.

Start by thoroughly examining your Atari console for any cosmetic imperfections, such as scratches, discoloration, or missing stickers. Look for any cracks or damage to the plastic casing, as this can significantly decrease the value. Additionally, make sure all the original cables and power adapters are present and in good working condition. Controllers should be tested to ensure they are functional and responsive.

Next, assess the condition of your game cartridges and other accessories. Look for any damage to the labels or cartridges themselves, such as torn labels, cracked cartridges, or missing components. Complete sets or bundles with all the necessary components and accessories tend to have higher value among collectors.

Remember, the better the condition and completeness of your Atari system, the higher the potential value it may have in the retro gaming market.

Researching The Market Trends For Atari Collectibles

When determining the value of your old Atari, it is crucial to understand the current market trends for Atari collectibles. By researching the market, you can gain insight into the demand and popularity of specific Atari systems, games, and accessories among collectors.

Start by browsing online auction platforms and retro gaming forums to get an idea of what Atari items are currently fetching higher prices. Pay attention to listings that have received multiple bids, as this indicates a strong demand for those particular items. Look for patterns in pricing, such as certain game titles or limited-edition accessories that consistently sell for higher amounts.

Additionally, stay updated on the latest news and developments in the retro gaming community. Keep an eye out for any upcoming gaming conventions or events where Atari collectibles will be showcased or sold. Attending these gatherings can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and insights into the current market.

Remember, the value of Atari collectibles can fluctuate over time, so it’s important to stay informed about any shifts in the market. By researching market trends, you can make more accurate assessments of your old Atari’s worth and potentially maximize its value when it comes time to sell.

Identifying Valuable Atari Games And Accessories

When determining the value of your old Atari, it is crucial to identify valuable games and accessories. Some Atari games have become highly sought after by collectors, leading to an increase in their market value. Look for games that are rare, limited edition, or have a significant impact on the gaming industry. These often include popular titles like “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “Pitfall!,” and “Space Invaders.”

In addition to games, certain Atari accessories can also hold value. Controllers, such as the paddle controller or the driving controller, may be sought after by collectors. Other potentially valuable accessories include the Atari 2600 game cartridge holder and the Atari CX40 joystick.

To determine the value of specific games and accessories, consult online resources, such as price guides and auction websites. These platforms will provide you with valuable insights into recent sales and current market prices. Be sure to take note of the condition and completeness of the items when comparing prices.

Remember, the rarer and more desirable the game or accessory, the higher its potential value. Keep an eye out for unique variations or limited edition releases, as these can significantly impact the worth of your Atari collection.

Consulting Price Guides And Online Auctions For Atari Pricing

Price guides and online auctions are valuable resources for determining the value of your old Atari gaming treasure. These tools provide insights into current market trends and can help you discover the worth of your specific Atari system, games, and accessories.

Price guides are often available in book or online format and offer comprehensive listings of Atari items along with their estimated values. They consider variables such as rarity, condition, and demand in determining the worth of each item. It is important to consult updated price guides that reflect the current market conditions to ensure you get an accurate estimate.

Online auctions, such as eBay, are another excellent resource for assessing the value of your Atari. By searching for similar items that have recently sold or are currently on auction, you can gather real-time data on the market value of your Atari system. Pay attention to completed listings, as they reflect the actual amount buyers were willing to pay.

Keep in mind that prices may fluctuate over time, so it is crucial to research the most recent sales and auction results for comparable Atari items.

Exploring Specialty Retro Gaming Stores For Appraisal Opportunities

Specialty retro gaming stores can be a hidden gem for determining the value of your old Atari. These stores are dedicated to preserving and selling vintage gaming systems and often have knowledgeable staff with expertise in appraising retro gaming treasures. Here’s why you should consider exploring these stores for appraisal opportunities.

When you visit a specialty retro gaming store, you’ll have the chance to meet experts who have extensive knowledge about Atari systems and games. They can examine your Atari, assess its condition, and give you a fair estimate of its value based on their experience and market trends. Additionally, these experts can also guide you on the rarity and demand of your specific Atari model.

Furthermore, specialty retro gaming stores often have a wide range of Atari systems, games, and accessories in their inventory. By browsing through their collection, you can compare your Atari with similar items and get a better understanding of its worth.

Lastly, visiting these stores allows you to network with other retro gaming enthusiasts. They may offer valuable insights or even be interested in purchasing your Atari at a fair price. Moreover, they can point you in the right direction for further research and finding potential buyers.

In conclusion, exploring specialty retro gaming stores provides an excellent opportunity to get a professional appraisal of your old Atari, connect with enthusiasts, and gain valuable insights about your gaming treasure’s value.

Considering the Historical Significance of Atari for Collectors

Historical significance plays a crucial role in determining the value of vintage gaming items, and Atari holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. As the company that introduced home video gaming to the masses in the 1970s, Atari systems and games hold both nostalgic and historical value.

Atari is often considered the cornerstone of the gaming industry, and its influence can still be seen today. The success of games like Pong, Asteroids, and Pac-Man laid the foundation for the entire gaming landscape we enjoy today. Collectors appreciate the importance of owning a piece of gaming history, and this drives up the value of Atari consoles, cartridges, and accessories.

To assess the historical significance of your Atari, consider factors such as its release date, the impact it had on the gaming industry, and the number of units sold. More significant models, limited editions, or consoles associated with groundbreaking games will likely hold higher value.

Remember to highlight any unique features or prototypes as these can be highly sought after by collectors who want to delve into the fascinating history of Atari and its contribution to gaming.

Seeking Expert Opinion And Appraisal Services For Your Atari

If you are unsure about the value of your old Atari console and games, seeking expert opinion and appraisal services is a reliable option. These experts have extensive knowledge and experience in the field of retro gaming and can provide an accurate evaluation of your Atari’s worth.

Expert opinions can be obtained from reputable retro gaming collectors, enthusiasts, or appraisers who specialize in vintage gaming items. You can reach out to them through online forums, social media groups, or retro gaming communities to seek their advice.

To obtain a professional appraisal, you can also consider hiring the services of certified appraisers who are well-versed in assessing the value of retro gaming collectibles. These appraisers have access to databases, pricing guides, and historical data that can help them determine a fair market value for your Atari system.

Keep in mind that expert opinion and appraisal services may come at a cost, but the investment will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the value of your Atari. Their knowledge and expertise will help ensure that you receive a fair assessment, and you can make informed decisions regarding the sale or insurance of your retro gaming treasure.

1. How do I determine the value of my old Atari console?

Determining the value of your old Atari console involves several factors. Firstly, the condition of the console plays a significant role, as well as any accompanying accessories or games. Researching the current market demand for Atari consoles and checking online platforms, auction sites, or specialized retro gaming stores can provide valuable information on price ranges. Additionally, considering the rarity of the specific model or edition you own can also impact its value.

2. Are all old Atari games equally valuable?

Not all old Atari games have the same value. The rarity, popularity, and condition of each game heavily influence its worth. Some highly sought-after games, like original copies of “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” or “Air Raid,” can fetch a higher price due to their scarcity and collector demand. Additionally, limited-edition releases or games in pristine condition with original packaging tend to have higher values. Conducting thorough online research or consulting with retro gaming experts can help assess the value of individual games in your collection.

3. How can I sell my old Atari for a fair price?

To sell your old Atari for a fair price, it’s important to do some research before listing it for sale. Start by researching similar listings on online platforms, auction sites, and retro gaming forums to gauge the current market prices. Taking high-quality photos of the console, accessories, and games can enhance its appeal to potential buyers. Consider providing detailed descriptions of the condition, any repairs or modifications, and any special features that could add value. To ensure a fair transaction, it’s recommended to use reputable platforms or trusted retro gaming stores for selling your old Atari.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, determining the value of your old Atari and other retro gaming treasures can be a complex process. Several factors including condition, rarity, demand, and market trends all play a role in determining its worth. It is essential to thoroughly research the specific item and consult with retro gaming specialists or online forums to get a more accurate estimate. Additionally, keeping your item in good condition and preserving its original packaging can increase its value significantly. Remember that the market for retro gaming is constantly evolving, so staying informed and regularly reassessing the value of your old Atari can help you make informed decisions when buying, selling, or valuing your retro gaming treasures.

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Atari 2600 Video Game Prices

Atari 2600 Price Guide (NTSC)

Below is a list for the Atari 2600 and their estimated market values.

How We Do It

We update our Atari 2600 game prices daily from completed eBay listings. if there is not a sale when we gather the data, the latest sold date will be listed. We gather the data and send it through our algorithm to determine the current going rate one should expect to pay for any given game.

Price Guide Download

atari_2600_price_guide.pdf

Retro Only

Atari 2600 Games Value: How Much Are They Worth?

*This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Have you ever come across some original Atari 2600 games and wondered if they were valuable at all? Maybe you or your friends own some and you were considering selling them, but want to see if any of them are valuable. Well, we have the answers for you! 

So how much is an original Atari 2600 game cartridge worth?

T he average price for an Atari 2600 game cartridge is only $10-$30. If you happen to have a rare game that is still sealed, however, the prices can easily go up to thousands of dollars. 

When trying to figure out the most valuable Atari 2600 games it really comes down to condition and rarity. If you have an extremely rare game from that era it can be incredibly valuable. However, even if you have a common game but its overall condition is almost perfect, that can make it worth thousands as well.

The Atari 2600 games from the early 1980s that will be worth the most money are brand-new games that are still sealed and graded. if you have a complete game with the box, the instruction manual and everything else that came with it it will be more valuable than just the cartridge as well.

If you want to know what the rare games for the Atari 2600 are and their value, you will want to keep reading. You can also check out this video that will show you what the rare games are for the Atari 2600. 

It is one thing to own Atari 2600 games, but it is an entirely different story to own the rarest and most unique ones. I will say having all the original Atari 2600 collections is probably close to a million-dollar asset.

This is why owning the collection is something most people only dream about. 

Although the original 2600 has some games that are extremely rare that we will discuss below, most games are not that rare and only sell for a small amount. However, if someone were to complete the entire 526 game collection, this would be basically a priceless collection as no one in the world owns the entire collection. 

So despite Atari being a small company that could never really compete with the Nintendo NES or Playstation consoles that were also released during that time, there are still some Atari games that are quite valuable.

If you are an old-school Atari lover then you have to get a classic Atari T-Shirt to show it! To see the most popular Atari T-Shirt retro designs that will stay classics for years just click here.

Atari Flashback 8 Gold Console HDMI 120 Games 2 Wireless Controllers

If you love all things Atari then you have to check out this awesome Atari Flashback console.

The Atari Flashback 8 comes with two wireless controllers (YES, WIRELESS!) two paddle controllers, and 120 authentic Atari games.

Atari Games Value: Most Valuable Atari Games Which Atari Games Are Worth Money

If you have a bunch of Atari games lying around your house or garage you might be wondering which Atari games are worth money. Of course, as I mentioned earlier most Atari games aren’t worth a whole lot but there are some valuable Atari games that you should keep an eye out for.

Below I will give the Atari games values of the rarest and most valuable Atari games that you could possibly own. So if you happen to have any of these titles and they are in decent condition then you could have a few thousand dollars on your hands!

BIRTHDAY MANIA: $6,500 – $16,000

This home video game was introduced to the game industry when it was still taking baby steps. It did however have a whole lot of commercial potentiality in it, especially in the late 90s.

This video game is sold /bought within the ranges of $6,500-$16,000. Yes, you read that right.

Birthday Mania is a specifically customized video game with title screens and a handy space on the label to write the receiver’s name. It is a customized birthday home video game that plays birthday songs and has a sound for blowing out candles too.

Some people actually have the opinion that the game is not so great but it serves its purpose quite well.

However, there are just a few of the birthday mania Atari games available today. Very few were produced and owned by some Atari collectors. Just about 300 of these games were produced and sold to the public. 

AIR RAID: $2,800 – $33,000

This is yet another valuable type of Atari 2600 game that is sold for an expensive chunk of money which should actually be part of a collector’s collection. Air Raid was argued to be from South Africa, the US, or a Taiwanese hack that was sold in the states.

This game is about the player trying so hard to protect the city by shooting down enemies flying above him and trying to destroy his city, the player then launches his missile against the enemy’s ships to take them down. Scores are shown in a tabular form whilst the players compete with themselves. This game today sells for an incredible $2,800-$33,000!

According to estimates, there are only about 23 known copies of Air Raid from which only 10 were said to be found in the last five years. This need for collectors to add this piece to their collection is where the true value lies. That is why this game has become so rare to find and sells for so much money. 

Red Sea Crossing : $10,400-$14,000

As a way of trying to reform the gambling and corrupted children who were playing these video games, the Red Sea Crossing game was introduced. It was one of the earliest Bible-based games which was created by Steve Schustack in 1983.

The price range of this game is between $10,400-$14,000. It was later discovered that Red Crossing was advertised on October 7, 1983, by the “issue of Christianity Today” magazine. The Red Sea Crossing game is one of the rarest games to try and find.

One owner even listed the game for a few hundred thousand dollars! Some factors in the higher value is a better condition in which the game is found.

Gamma Attack : $6,000-$14,000

This is another original and valuable Atari 2600 game that was published in 1983. It was created by Gammation headed by a programmer called Robert L. Esken.

This game centers around the gamer attacking tanks on the ground with a flying saucer to make good use of their rapid-fire accessories. There were just a few cartridges produced and it sells for about $6,000-$14,000.

One copy that is known to exist is in the hands of Anthony DeNardo. Initially, he didn’t know the value of this until he did some research and learned how valuable it is. He once placed it on auction for an extremely high price of $500,000.

Although he didn’t expect it to sell, he did it to just bring attention to the game. 

Karate UltraVision Release : $12,000-$18,000

This game was developed and designed by Joseph Amelio (black belt holder). This UltraVision release was released with another game called Condor Attack.

Even though it was seen as one of the worst games in the Atari 2600 library, nobody has seen a boxed copy of the game surface. However, one in excellent condition ranges between the ranges of $12,000-$18,000 if not more as it is the only one available. 

Pepsi Invaders : $815-$3,500

This Atari game was a result of the Pepsi challenge when there was a war between Coke and Pepsi. The 1970s and 80s were full of so many promotional fights between these two soda brands.

Below are some commercials from the Coke and Pepsi war. 

This game was commissioned as a revision of Space invaders by the Coca-Cola corporation and was distributed to their executives at a sales conversion. There are only 130 of these games at most believed to have existed.

The Pepsi Invader game ranges between $815-$3,500, as there were verified sales on eBay including a 2005 sale for $1,825, a 2010 sale for $2,125, a $3500 sale in 2013, and a $2000 sale in 2017.

The game is centered on the player shooting invading letters that say PEPSI and a flying logo that replaces the flyer at the top of the screen. The game also has a 3-minute timer to test the player’s ability.

ELI’S LADDER: $750-$2,400

This Atari 2600 game is the rarest educational game that has ever been designed. It was produced by Simage and aimed at boosting children’s mathematical skills.

The player solves a math question and a correct answer helps Eli to climb a ladder that is supposed to take him to his ship so he can fly to the moon. There are about 15 copies circulating around and it is priced in the range of $750 – $2400.

Additional Valuable Atari 2600 Games

But if you are looking at one of these in your collection you will want to beware as there are quite a few of these that are not official copies. 

There are some other games that have also become quite valuable in recent years with sale prices selling in the thousands of dollars too (again depending on condition). Those games are:

  • Star Wars Ewok Adventure Prototype
  • Stadium Events
  • Beany Bopper
  • Atlantis ii

So if you have one of these game cartridges and it is in good condition (or ideally even still sealed in the box) then you want to check out eBay to see what the most recent sales of these cartridges have been.

Atari 2600 Value: How Much Is An Atari 2600 Console Worth?

So now you know what the most valuable games for the Atari 2600 are. You also know that most Atari 2600 game cartridges are only worth between $10-$30. But what about the Atari 2600 system itself?

Unfortunately, the Atari 2600 is only worth around $50-$60 for second-hand units.

If you would like to know the exact value of your system you should check out the article that I wrote about Atari console values by clicking here. I go into detail about the value of all of the variations of the Atari consoles including the:

  • Atari Jaguar

In that article, I will also go into the graphics, mechanics, rarity of the included games, and more.

There are so many other original Atari 2600 games that are worth an amazing amount of money.  First, we have the Music Machine ranging between $400-$2,200. Second is Cubic Color which sells for $1,200-$1,500.

The third is Lochjaw which sells for $550-$6,500. Lastly is River Patrol which sells for $760-$4,000.

On top of all of these, there are several other original Atari 2600 games that sell for a decent amount, but just don’t quite make the list.

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Screen Rant

10 most expensive atari games (& how much they’re worth in 2022).

Atari was instrumental in the development of the video game home console industry, and some of the publisher's games are incredibly valuable today.

While it wasn't the very first of its kind, the Atari 2600 legitimized the concept of the home console and helped to usher in a new era of gaming. It's undeniably Atari 's most iconic piece of hardware, and, from innovative arcade ports to endlessly entertaining original titles, it made an incredible and lasting impact on the industry.

That said, it was far from Atari's final console, having spawned a lineage that continues to this day via the Atari VCS. Hosting a variety of forgotten gems and coveted rareties, these are some of the most valuable Atari games ever produced.

Meteorites ($174.65)

The Atari 5200 is often remembered as one of the most egregious miscalculations in console gaming history. The system was bulky, the controllers broke easily, and it launched less than a year before the notorious video game crash of 1983.

RELATED: 10 Retro Handheld Consoles From The 90s You Probably Never Knew Existed

Yet, there are more than a few worthwhile video games on the Atari 5200, most of which are overlooked due to the system for which they were developed. Meteorites , an obvious clone of the arcade hit Asteroids , offers more gameplay depth and variety when compared to the title that inspired it, and, in 1984, it would have been an awesome rendition of a 1979 favorite.

Tank Command ($208.26)

Nintendo usurped Atari as the number-one name in home video game consoles with the release of the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1985. Atari responded with the Atari 7800 in 1986, but the system failed to topple the stiff competition.

There aren't many ultra-rare games for the Atari 7800, though Tank Command is a notable exception. Easily the most valuable officially-released game for Atari's third-generation system, Tank Command is a top-down shooter that resembles popular 8-bit titles of the time like Akari Warriors and Twin Cobra . A fairly unforgiving title that emphasizes accuracy and ammo conservation, it's certainly an interesting piece of Atari history.

Atari Karts ($280.53)

Atari jaguar.

Marketed as a 64-bit console in an era during which 16-bit consoles were the norm, the Atari Jaguar turned heads initially, but it notoriously failed to live up to the hype and was shortly after steamrolled by systems like the PlayStation and Nintendo 64.

RELATED: 10 Classic Video Games That Have Free Smartphone Versions

Hidden gems are few and far between on the Atari Jaguar, though the mascot racer Atari Karts seems to have earned favorable reviews. A Mario Kart clone that demands some pretty slick steering on harder difficulties, it was serviceable for the time, though the title couldn't outpace its primary influence, which ran on hardware that was supposedly significantly inferior.

Softp*** Adventures ($379.98)

Atari 8-bit computers.

In 1979, Atari introduced a line of 8-bit home computers that were surprisingly capable gaming systems, especially for the time. Marketed as multifaceted machines perfect for both work and play, the Atari 400 and Atari 800 made gaming on a home computer more widely accessible than it had ever been to that point.

While most of the titles available for these machines were traditional sidescrollers or typical arcade ports, Softp*** Adventures is a notable oddity that sought to bridge the gap between adults and gamers. Today, it's a clunky and very out-of-date text-based adventure, but it still stands as an important PC gaming relic that, according to PCGamer , actually served as a starting point for the Leisure Suit Larry series.

Bounty Bob Strikes Back ($610.00)

Released in 1982, Miner 2049er was a modest success for Atari's 8-bit line of computers, and it eventually received a sequel in Bounty Bob Strike Back . An arcade platformer that plays like a cross between Donkey Kong and Qbert , the game tasks players with navigating a series of platforms and avoiding enemies while filling in a series of colored tiles.

RELATED: 10 Best Modern 3D Platformers, Ranked

There's not that much that stands out about the Atari 5200 port of the game save for the price. In 2022, a loose copy goes for around six hundred dollars, making it one of the priciest non-Atari 2600 games by quite a bit.

Ultima 1 ($810.00)

The godfather of fantasy RPGs, Ultima was among the first games to accurately replicate the complex gameplay of traditional tabletop role-playing titles . An epic tale of sorcery and time travel, Ultima was way ahead of its time, and it helped to begin a trend that would eventually spawn modern-day hits like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Cyberpunk 2077 .

While it's so clunky and hard to get running as to be nigh-on unplayable today, Ultima 's innovative open world and impressive first-person dungeon crawling segments remain worthy of praise. It's a must-have for hardcore RPG fans, though some ports of the game come with a massive price tag.

Battlesphere ($850.01)

Battlesphere is a first-person aerial combat title that was originally set to release in 1994, but various issues and delays led to cancelation and subsequent revival in the year 2000, four years after the Atari Jaguar was officially discontinued. Undoubtedly the prized collection of a small number of Atari Jaguar collections, the title is incredibly pricey today, sometimes selling for in excess of $1,000.

RELATED: 10 Most Relatable Retro Gaming Memes

While it's a surprisingly robust title that far outstrips many of the clunky, poorly-optimized 3D games on the system, Battlesphere has remained an unknown oddity relegated mostly to circles of dedicated Atari fans.

Red Sea Crossing ($1,306.97)

Red Sea Crossing is among the absolute rarest video games ever to exist. Sold exclusively through the magazine Christianity Today in 1983, only two copies are known to exist, one of which, according to IGN , sold for over $10,000 at auction in 2012.

Currently, Pricecharting.com speculates the title to be worth over $1,000, though less recent estimates value the game at nearly $14,000. Regardless of an exact figure, Red Sea Crossing is about as priceless as a video game cartridge can be.

Pepsi Invaders ($1,512.25)

Another Atari 2600 game so rare as to be almost mythical, Pepsi Invaders is a simple clone of the beloved arcade hit Space Invaders that simply swaps out the enemy sprites for the letters P, E, S, and I. Though to have been distributed to Coca-Cola higher-ups in the early 1980s, Pepsi Invaders is a relentlessly weird and unbelievably rare title.

With that in mind, physical copies of the game do indeed exist and are estimated to be worth around fifteen hundred bucks in 2022. That's quite a sum for a slightly modified version of the otherwise very common Space Invaders game.

River Raid ($8,143.50)

By far the rarest Atari 2600 game ever released, Air Raid tasks players with defending Manhattan from alien invaders. Something of a different take on the standard Space Invaders formula, players must prevent enemy ships from destroying 12 skyscrapers as the screen constantly scrolls to the left.

According to Polygon , a Texas Goodwill store sold a loose copy for $10,000 dollars as recently as 2021, and, as per IGN , a complete-in-box version of the game sold at auction for $33,000. This would definitely make for a great conversation piece among collectors, to say the least.

NEXT: 10 Unpopular Opinions About Classic Video Games, According To Reddit

Journey Escape

Journey Escape

What's it worth.

Journey Escape ~ Atari 2600 ~ 1982 ~ Factory Shrink Wrapped ~ Sealed ~ Nice ~

Journey Escape ~ Atari 2600 ~ 1982 ~ Factory Shrink Wrapped ~ Sealed ~ Nice ~

Journey Escape (Atari 2600) By Data Age CIB (Complete In Box) Seal Torn

Journey Escape (Atari 2600) By Data Age CIB (Complete In Box) Seal Torn

Journey Escape Atari Game Complete In Box CIB Cartridge Cart Manual OEM

Journey Escape Atari Game Complete In Box CIB Cartridge Cart Manual OEM

Journey Escape (Atari 2600, 1982) Cart Only, Authentic

Journey Escape (Atari 2600, 1982) Cart Only, Authentic

Atari 2600 Games

Atari 2600 Games

Journey Escape (Atari 2600, 1982)

Journey Escape (Atari 2600, 1982)

Journey Escape (Atari 2600) NEW/SEALED! READ DISCRIPTION

Journey Escape (Atari 2600) NEW/SEALED! READ DISCRIPTION

JOURNEY: ESCAPE ATARI 2600 VIDEO GAME CARTRIDGE WITH ORIGINAL MANUAL DATA AGE

JOURNEY: ESCAPE ATARI 2600 VIDEO GAME CARTRIDGE WITH ORIGINAL MANUAL DATA AGE

Journey Escape (Atari 2600)(D)

Journey Escape (Atari 2600)(D)

Journey Escape (Atari 2600)(B)

Journey Escape (Atari 2600)(B)

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The Rarest Atari 2600 Games (& How Much They're Worth)

Collecting classic gaming memorabilia is something of a treasure hunt, especially when it comes to these incredibly rare Atari 2600 games.

Thanks to the Internet, video games from every era have become easy to copy and preserve. However, physical copies and cartridges can be incredibly hard to come by, which is why museums and private collectors put in a lot of time and effort to find and preserve these pieces of history.

RELATED: Things You Never Knew About The Atari 2600

The Atari 2600 was the first really successful cartridge-based home gaming console, and it has a massive library of titles with some incredibly valuable cartridges. Because while some games were bestsellers with copies that are easy to find even now, others hardly sold any cartridges and have become rare collector's items instead.

All prices were taken from PriceCharting.com and were accurate at the time of publication.

13 Karate ($24)

Back in 1982, video games were still new enough that developers could get away with generic titles like Karate . Reviewers panned this fighting game both at the time and in retrospective reviews, but then collectors don't care much about game quality. What's more important is that two different publishers would release the game: first Ultravision, and then Froggo.

Ultravision would hand distribution over to Froggo soon after Karate came out, so there are far fewer copies with the Ultravision name on them in circulation. So, while the listed prices are fair for Froggo editions of the game, an Ultravision copy can sell for $1,000 or even more.

12 E.T. ($45)

Journalists have written a lot about E.T. on the Atari 2600, focusing mostly on its quality (or lack thereof). Still, gamers shouldn't think any less of programmer Howard Scott Warshaw. Warshaw developed the game in a little over a month, a breathtakingly short timeframe when average development cycles at the time were anywhere from seven months to a year. It also didn't help that E.T. demands that players collect phone parts to phone home if they want to complete the game. Most Atari 2600 titles have players repeat the same task on the same screen over and over to achieve a high score, which is much easier to program.

The story of E.T. 's release and the shock it dealt to the games industry is well known. Eventually, Atari would collect the unsold and returned copies and throw them into a desert landfill, there to be lost forever. When company Fuel Industries finally unearthed the landfill in 2014, they found nine hundred copies of E.T. , along with other Atari games. Fuel Industries brought several hundred of them to auction, where they collectively sold for over $100,000. With a copy now sitting in the Smithsonian Institution, E.T. has turned out to have quite an important legacy.

11 Gauntlet ($59)

While Atari would make a fantasy arcade game called Gauntlet in 1985, this game for the Atari 2600 is completely unrelated. In it, players assist Sir Robert Wittenbottom through a gauntlet of obstacles to prove his worth to a remote tribe in the Amazon jungle. Unlike most other Atari 2600 tiles, which were available in stores, gamers could only get Gauntlet by mail order directly from the developer, Answer Software.

RELATED: The Rarest Amiga Games (& How Much They're Worth)

The fact that the game was never mass-produced adds to its value, which, when it first resurfaced sold for around $3,000. However, the price has declined quite a bit since then as collectors have found more copies.

10 Extra Terrestrials ($61)

Not to be confused with the infamous video game adaptation, Extra Terrestrials was made by a Canadian family who wanted to take advantage of the video game craze. Sadly, however, they joined in a little too late. Their company, Skill Screen Games, didn't finish Extra Terrestrials until after the big market crash.

To try and salvage their investment, the game was reportedly sold door-to-door locally, with only one hundred copies ever produced. The game wouldn't resurface until 2011, and in 2019 a private seller put a copy on eBay for $90,000 . They didn't get the full asking price, but the number of known authentic copies is still in the single digits. As such, most collectors can only expect to buy museum-funded recreations.

9 Gamma Attack ($299)

It may not be the most expensive, but Gamma Attack is quite possibly the rarest Atari 2600 game ever made. Reportedly, only a single authentic original copy exists , and its whereabouts are well known. One collector has it, and they refuse to part with it for anything less than half a million dollars.

Fortunately, there are ways for other collectors to get copies of this game. The original developer created a limited-release edition of the game after Gamma Attack 's rediscovery in 2008, and this is the version collectors can find listed by online sellers. They may not be authentic, but they're still physical examples of gaming history.

8 Superman ($389)

The Man of Steel has not had the best luck with video game adaptations . However, his first entry fared better than most of his follow-ups, and it's significant for being both one of the first licensed games and one of the first action-adventure games to feature several locations. In fact, the landmark game Adventure wouldn't come out until a year later.

RELATED: Most Expensive Console Gaming Accessories (And How Much They Are Going For)

Not every edition of Superman is worth a lot, but the limited Sears tie-in edition with a yellow title can fetch several thousand dollars. Other versions, like the one that came in a blue box instead of the usual red, can also command a significant sum, making Superman one of the most expensive games for the Atari 2600.

7 River Patrol ($832)

River Patrol came out in arcades and on several other consoles, but it's the Atari 2600 version that collectors covet. Players have to save NPCs on a river while avoiding hazards along the way. It's not the only game of the era to have players navigate a river , but this one is about saving people instead of destroying boats and helicopters.

The arcade version came out in 1981, but developer Tigervision released the Atari 2600 port in 1984. This was bad timing because the great video game crash had been going on for a year by that point. The poor performance due to the crash is the major reason for the game's scarcity.

6 Mangia ($1,249)

Mangia means "eat" in Italian and perfectly describes the game's mechanics. Players are forced to eat plate after plate of spaghetti until their stomach explodes. To prevent this game over, players must feed some food to their dog or cat without their mother looking.

The graphics are surprisingly good for an Atari 2600 game, but the simple game loop and unpleasant end state are probably why the game never sold well. On the bright side, poor sales have made the North American version of Mangia one of the rarest Atari 2600 games in existence.

5 Pepsi Invaders ($3,500)

People complain about ads in sports games all the time, but even back in the Atari 2600's day, there were times when entire games were essentially just interactive ads. For instance, Pepsi Invaders is a clone of Space Invaders made by the Coca-Cola company.

RELATED: The Most Expensive Video Game Consoles At Launch

In this title, players destroy ships that spell out Coca-Cola's main competitor, Pepsi. They only made about 125 copies, and the company gave them out for free during conventions, which is why Pepsi Invaders is one of the most valuable Atari 2600 games. Pepsi wouldn't respond to this game until 1999's Pepsiman , an endless runner starring the titular mascot .

4 Eli's Ladder ($5,419)

Eli's Ladder is the single rarest educational video game in existence. The game was developed and published by Simage in 1982, and, like most Atari 2600 titles, the gameplay is simple. Players must perform basic arithmetic to help the alien Eli climb back into his spaceship and go home.

What makes Eli's Ladder such a collector's item is the fact that the box came with a dozen different extras like stickers, worksheets, wall posters, instructions, and more. So, while the cartridge on its own is worth a lot, collectors will pay even more for a boxed version that still has every last sticker.

3 Out of Control ($6,008)

Good investments often become poor ideas once everyone catches wind of them, and this can leave latecomers in the lurch. This is the case with Avalon Hill, a board game company that decided to go into video game publishing just as the industry crashed.

As a game, Out of Control is nothing special. Players simply fly a ship through space and then land it to complete the missions. However, thanks to the company's timing, every Avalon Hill game is rare, and Out of Control is easily among the rarest games for the Atari 2600.

2 Red Sea Crossing ($10,400)

The story behind this game is as mysterious as the biblical event that inspired it. Steve Slack at Inspirational Video Concepts developed Red Sea Crossing and it depicts Moses parting and traversing the Red Sea while leaving Egypt . The company only made 100 copies, and they all seemingly disappeared without a trace.

It would take 30 years for Red Sea Crossing to resurface, and, even now, only two original copies are known to exist. One copy was sold in 2012 for $10,400. According to PriceCharting the only sale since then was a remake sold on eBay for $137.06.

1 Air Raid ($33,433)

A complete boxed version of this shoot-em-up sold for well over $30,000. The curious T-shape design of the cartridge is a big contributor to this value and explains why even the cartridge on its own is worth an absolute fortune.

Less than five sales of this game have taken place , making it a Holy Grail for Atari 2600 collectors. While the cartridge shape has a practical value (gamers can use it as a handle to plug it into and pull it out of the console), it's also very rare, and developer Men-A-Vision only ever created Air Raid . Together, these factors explain why Air Raid is the most expensive Atari 2600 game on the planet.

MORE: The Best-Selling Atari Games, Ranked By Sales

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Product Identifiers

  • Publisher Data Age
  • eBay Product ID (ePID) 56236240

Product Key Features

  • Genre Action & Adventure
  • Platform Atari 2600
  • Game Name Journey Escape

Additional Product Features

  • Release Year 1982
  • Country/Region of Manufacture USA
  • Control Elements Gamepad/Joystick
  • LeafCats 139973

Atari 2600 Journey 1982 Release Year Video Games

Journey atari 2600 video games, atari 2600 games, atari 2600 consoles, atari for atari 2600 gamepads, atari 2600 accessories.

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10 Most Rare Atari Games and How Much They’re Worth

  • December 9, 2022
  • Jason Brown

Rare Atari Games

It’s time to blow some dust off those cartridges you have stored in the attic as we check out the most rare Atari games and how much they’re worth!

Atari’s Video Computer System – or VCS – released in 1977 and became an absolute phenomenon.

Atari have an even longer history in the video games industry though, having been founded 50 years ago. Check out our Atari 50 review , which looks at the recently released anniversary compilation, for more on that!

Rebranded as the Atari 2600 in 1982, it wasn’t the first home console to use swappable game cartridges (many consoles at the time simply came with games built in to the hardware. But it was definitely the machine that brought the concept to the mainstream.

The Atari 2600 had a particularly elongated lifespan, despite Atari playing a big part in the mostly US-based video game crash of 1983.

Production of the console ended in 1992, with the final games arriving in the same year.

So many games were released over those 15 years that some have ended up becoming extremely sought after. 

Whether they were released in limited numbers, were just highly desirable or have since become difficult to find in good condition, some Atari titles now sell for eye-wateringly huge amounts of money.

Which ones are the rarest and most valuable though?

Let’s find out, as we check out the ten most rare Atari games and how much they’re worth!

Table of Contents

10. The Music Machine (1983)

The Music Machine - Rare Atari Games

Though the name of our number ten entry evokes thoughts of an early rhythm action game, the truth – of what The Music Machine actually is – is far stranger.

Developed by Christian Software Development and sold only in religious bookshops, The Music Machine sees players in control of two kids, Stevie and Nancy. Gamers attempt to catch the ‘Fruits of the Spirit’ that the eponymous Music Machine drops from the top of the screen.

Once each of the different types of item – which represent ‘good qualities’, such as a Snail denoting ‘patience’ or, bizarrely, a mustard seed being ‘faith’ – have been collected, a heart drops.

Catch this and you’ll move on to the next stage.

However, the dastardly Mr Pims is also above the children. He drops his assistants, The Pudgeons – catch these and it’s a life lost!

It’s just as bizarre as it sounds, though as with most Atari games you need the manual to give you context for the on-screen action.

Given its nature as part of a line of religious products – including albums – which featured The Music Machine, this Atari game is incredibly rare. 

Price-wise, it has sold for $600 as a loose cartridge, as much as $1800 complete in box and over $5000 new in shrink-wrap!

9. River Patrol (1984) 

River Patrol

A belated port of a fairly obscure 1981 arcade game (with both the original and this Atari port developed by Orca Corporation), River Patrol sees players in charge of a boat, travelling upriver to rescue drowning people while avoiding numerous deadly obstacles and creatures.

Though largely forgotten these days, River Patrol was the eleventh highest grossing coin op in Japan in 1981.

The Atari port was released by Tigervision, a subsidiary of Tiger Toys – and was one of only ten games they released for the system.

River Patrol didn’t get very widely distributed and is known as an extremely rare game in the Atari 2600’s library. As such, it can fetch prices of close to $700 just for the cartridge, $2000 for complete in box copies and $3000 for new, unopened copies!

8. Lochjaw (1982)

Lochjaw - Rare Atari Games

Publishers Apollo Inc were legally forced to change the name of their shark-themed video game Lochjaw due to its similarity to the movie Jaws. 

Which meant that Lochjaw was withdrawn from sale and went on to be re-released as Shark Attack. The second version also fixed numerous bugs and is generally considered to be a much better game.

This Pac-Man style underwater adventure is of course very rare due to the fact that it was replaced by Shark Attack; consequently, unboxed copies have shifted for as much as $750. 

No doubt boxed and new copies would fetch incredibly high prices, but there’s no sales data on those due to how much of an endangered species the Lochjaw video game is!

7. Atlantis II (1982)

Atlantis II

Only the second third party publisher for the Atari 2600 (after Activision), Imagic released 24 games before going out of business in 1986.

One of these games was Atlantis, a visually impressive (for the Atari 2600!) single screen shoot ’em up.

A competition was run by Imagic, in which players of Atlantis were encouraged to send photos of their high scores to the publisher. The players who submitted the highest scores winning a copy of the specially produced Atlantis II cartridge.

Atlantis II was essentially just a more challenging version of the original game, but due to its nature as a competition prize, it’s one of the rarest games on the Atari 2600.

Prices start in the region of $800 – and at the time of writing, one seller on eBay is offering their copy for an eye-watering $23,000! 

6. Karate (Ultravision Version, 1982)

Ultravision: Karate - Rare Atari Games

Ultravision were a third party publisher for the Atari 2600; they had ambitions of creating an all-in-one TV/computer/games console device (which would have additional modules to play Atari 2600 and Colecovision games), but it sadly never came to fruition.

They only ended up releasing two games for the 2600: Condor Attack and Karate .

One-on-one martial arts fighting game Karate was released in two versions; one is worth far less (in a ‘Froggo Games’ box) and the other – the Ultravision branded game – is the one which seems to fetch very high prices.

Each of their games are rare, but it’s the Ultravision Karate which has made it to the most rare Atari games list. That’s all thanks to an eye-watering price of $1100 unboxed that it’s been known to sell for! 

No information on pricing for the boxed or new copies is available, but no doubt they’d fetch exceedingly large prices if any ever surfaced!

5. Magicard (1982)

Magicard

Though not actually a game, this is a rare Atari cartridge that definitely earns a place on this list thanks to its value to collectors.

Magicard is programming software, with which very basic programs could be created. 

It’s unlikely that it was ever made available at retail; instead, Magicard was likely sold only via mail order, from the publishers (CommaVid – though the cartridge credits them with their original name: Computer Magic).

There was no box, so of course this means that a complete copy is just the very plain-looking cartridge and it’s rather extensive, 100 page manual.

Five sample programs were included in the manual. Although users weren’t limited to these five programs, they were useful as demonstrations of what Magicard was capable of; they included a Memo Pad and a basic Target Practice game. 

The Magicard cartridge alone can sell for $1200, but with a manual the value doubles to as much as $2400!

4. Pepsi Invaders (1983)

Pepsi Invaders - Rare Atari Games

Despite the Pepsi branding in the title, hilariously this next entry in our rare Atari games list was commissioned by The Coca-Cola Company as a promotional item to be given out at their 1983 sales convention.

A Space Invaders clone – essentially a hack of the Atari version of Space Invaders – Pepsi Invaders sees players shooting down adversaries that are either the letters of the word ‘Pepsi’ or, in the final column, an alien.

The bonus UFO – which occasionally moves across the top of the screen for extra points if shot – is also changed to look like what was then the Pepsi logo.

The black cartridge – of which 125 were manufactured – had no label and many were simply discarded by the salespeople they were handed out to as incentives. 

This, of course, makes Pepsi Invaders an extremely rare find – copies change hands for around $1500-$1800 at present.

3. Eli’s Ladder (1982)

journey atari game value

An early example of an ‘edutainment’ game – that is, educational entertainment software – Eli’s Ladder has players solving mathematical problems during the game.

Successfully solving a problem helps the titular Eli climb his spaceship’s ladder – with the ultimate aim being for Eli and his crew to journey to the moon.

Interestingly, the game was packaged with a wall chart and stickers to keep kids invested in progressing.

Thanks to limited distribution – this is publisher Simage’s only Atari 2600 game – Eli’s Ladder is a real rarity.

The cartridge alone fetches prices in the region of $2600, but boxed (with wall chart and stickers) it can command $7000.

Unopened, as new copies sell for as much as $10,000!

2. Red Sea Crossing (1983)

Red Sea Crossing - Atari - Rare Atari Games

Perhaps the most legendary of all our rare Atari games in existence, it’s thought that there are only two copies of Red Sea Crossing in the world.

Much like The Music Machine, Red Sea Crossing is a religion-themed game. It’s much more overt here, with the game directly taking players through the story of Moses parting the Red Sea.

With the player in control of Moses as he attempts to reach the Sinai Peninsula, they must dodge obstacles and the Egyptians in pursuit of the Biblical character.

Red Sea Crossing was published by Steve Stack Inc/Inspirational Video Concepts in 1983 – and was only made available via mail order, with adverts having appeared in Christianity Today magazine.

A copy of Red Sea Crossing sold for just over $10,000 in 2012; the whereabouts and value of the other copy are not known at this time – but if sold it would no doubt reach an incredibly high price!

1. Air Raid (1982)

Air Raid Atari - Rare Atari Games

Though not as rare as Red Sea Crossing (of which only two copies are known to still exist), there are only 13 copies of Air Raid known to exist at present.

The only release from publisher Men-A-Vision, Air Raid is a single screen, arcade style game in which players aim to protect two buildings from being destroyed by enemy ships.

In 2010, a boxed copy – with just the cartridge and no manual – sold online for a huge $31,600. 

A year later, a cartridge only auction sold for $3,575 – then in 2012, the first ever fully complete copy to surface in decades (which included the cartridge, instruction manual and box) sold for an incredible $33,433.30.

Others have popped up since then, though they’ve sold for less; for instance, in 2021 a copy sold for just over $10,500.

So Air Raid, thanks to a combination of its extreme rarity and the high prices it commands, makes it to the very top of our most rare Atari games list!

While you’re here and checking out Atari games, why not take a look at our very own list of the best Atari 2600 emulator apps?

Along with this, why not check out our list of all Atari consoles too?

This article may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to purchase an item we may earn a commission.

Jason Brown

Jason – who lives in the UK – has had a lifelong interest in video games, which all started when he discovered Space Invaders in the early 80s. The first game he ever completed was Wonder Boy in Monster Land on the Sega Master System – which remains one of his proudest gaming achievements. Jason is a passionate writer – and has been writing about gaming since the late 90s. He currently runs pop culture blog midlifegamergeek.com, which he updates on a daily basis (and has written more than 700 articles on the blog alone!).

Outside of video games, Jason is a keen tabletop gamer, film buff and comic book fan.

Become a patron at Patreon!

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That time the band Journey made an Atari 2600 game

As Atari celebrates its 50th year, why not recall the pinnacle of gameplay that was “Journey: Escape” – the vivid Atari 2600 title to match the band.

Believe it or not, Journey signed off on not one but two game versions of themselves in the early 80s – 1982’s Atari 2600 title from mighty developer Data Age, and then an unrelated 1983 arcade cabinet from Bally Midway that even had digitized band member images.

But the Data Age title was next-level even by the hit-or-miss standards of early home Atari titles. There’s so much to unpack here. Why does the band manager look like the Kool-Aid man? How are you even supposed to get through the game play? (It’s both brutally confusing and brutally difficult.) What… is the music that’s playing? (It isn’t Journey, because of course it’s not – they contribute only one recognizable snippet on the title screen, and then you’re in some very abstract Atari sound world.)

Behold. “Don’t Stop Bel– actually, yeah, stop.”

The advertising is as epic as you’d expect.

journey atari game value

I’m reminded of this as our friend Adam Young actually played it, apparently, purchased from a grocery store. (Where else?) Amusingly, sounds like Adam only just discovered what was going on in the game from its Wikipedia page.

As the manual explains – sort of:

You’re on the road with Journey, one of the world’s hottest rock groups. A spectacular performance has just ended. Now it’s up to you to guide each Journey Band Member past hordes of Love-Crazed Groupies, Sneaky Photographers, and Shifty-Eyed Promoters to the safety of the Journey Escape Vehicle in time to make the next concert. Your mighty manager and loyal roadies are there to help, but the escape is up to you!

Mike Ryan for Uproxx went hands-on and did a breakdown of the game’s instructions:

We Bought And Played ‘Journey: Escape’ On Atari 2600, For Some Reason

journey atari game value

Maybe you need a proper review before you pull this out of someone’s trash – erm, buy it? ( via )

Sadly, this so far is not part of the Atari 50 anniversary collection coming to game platforms this fall. (That does look fascinating, though, with additional content like interviews – and a great look back at some seriously retro game music.)

There are rumors of surprises for that collection, though, like a hidden E.T. game, so – stay tuned.

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Alan Cross' A Journal of Musical Things

Remembering Journey’s ancient Atari 2600 video game

If you’re of a certain age, you might have owned an Atari 2600 like this.

journey atari game value

In 1982, Atari was hot, publishing both E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Pac-Man , shipping close to 700,000 copies into what they thought was an insatiable market. But then came The Great Video Game Crash of 1983.

So many manufacturers were in the video console game that the market became saturated. At the same time, there was a movement away from consoles towards games played on more powerful personal computers.

Millions of game cartridges went unsold, forcing Atari to dump an untold numbers in a landfill near Alamogordo, New Mexico. It took another two years for the industry to recover.

It was in the midst of this video game irrational exuberance that a company called Data Age released an Atari 2600 game based on the 1981 Journey album, Escape . It was an insanely successful album, featuring singles like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Who’s Crying Now,” “Stone in Love,” and “Open Arms.” A surefire hit, right?

journey atari game value

The game was described like this:

You’re on the road with Journey, one of the world’s hottest rock groups. A spectacular performance has just ended. Now it’s up to you to guide each Journey Band Member past hordes of Love-Crazed Groupies, Sneaky Photographers, and Shifty-Eyed Promoters to the safety of the Journey Escape Vehicle in time to make the next concert. Your mighty manager and loyal roadies are there to help, but the escape is up to you!

journey atari game value

The graphics were, er


journey atari game value

Is
is that the Kool-Aid “Oh YEAH” guy? Yes. Yes, it is.

Let’s play, shall we? Love those 8-bit versions of songs from the the album.

Share this:

  • This track won the AI Song Contest, sort of a Eurovision for algorithms
  • Help support musicians and #BuyMusicFriday

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 37974 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

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Random Music News for Tuesday, May 17, 2016

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If you’re a child of the 80s, this music video might make your head explode

Random music news for saturday, november 17, 2018, one thought on “ remembering journey’s ancient atari 2600 video game ”.

I still have my original 2600, with 42 games and one of them being the Journey Escape game. In this time of “spare time”, maybe I should bring it out and let my kids experience!

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Journey Escape – Review

Review by mariner.

Reviewed: 02/09/2002 | Updated: 02/09/2002

My goal is to make this review more fun than the game. That's not too hard to do.

  • Rating:   3

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Home » Discover the 7 Best Atari Games Ever: A Nostalgic Journey Back in Time!

Discover the 7 Best Atari Games Ever: A Nostalgic Journey Back in Time!

Rediscover gaming history with the best Atari games. Iconic graphics, addictive gameplay, and vintage charm. Experience the magic of retro gaming!

Explore nostalgia with the best Atari games. Classic titles, immersive gameplay, and timeless fun

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  • 1 Centipede Board Game | Best Arcade-to-Tabletop Adaptation
  • 2 Defender – Atari 2600 | Best Classic Side-Scroller
  • 3 Space Invaders – Atari 2600 | Most Iconic Retro Game
  • 4 Keystone Kapers | Best Chase Gameplay
  • 5 Grand Prix Atari 2600 | Best Retro Racing Experience
  • 6 Pole Position | Pioneer of Racing Simulations
  • 7 Chopper Command Atari 2600 | Best Aerial Combat Game
  • 8 What Makes an Atari Game the Best?
  • 9 7 Essential Buying Criteria for Atari Games
  • 10 Did You Know?

Welcome, fellow gaming enthusiast! Remember the golden era of gaming when Atari reigned supreme? If you’re feeling nostalgic or simply curious about the best Atari games, you’re in the right place .

  • Atari games set the foundation for modern gaming.
  • “Space Invaders” and “Pac-Man” are among the top-selling arcade games.
  • Know what to look for when buying Atari games.
  • Discover the hidden gems and iconic titles of Atari.
  • Get insights from our expert, Owen Gower, and his personal Atari experiences.

Centipede Board Game | Best Arcade-to-Tabletop Adaptation

Centipede Board Game Review

The Centipede Board Game is a delightful adaptation of the classic arcade game, bringing the digital challenge to your tabletop. It offers engaging gameplay that encourages strategic thinking, making it suitable for both kids and adults. A perfect game for nostalgic evenings or family game nights.

Defender – Atari 2600 | Best Classic Side-Scroller

Defender - Atari 2600 Review

Defender for the Atari 2600 is a classic that showcases the charm of early video gaming . Its side-scrolling shooter gameplay is both challenging and engaging, making it a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts . It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Space Invaders – Atari 2600 | Most Iconic Retro Game

Space Invaders - Atari 2600 Review

Space Invaders for the Atari 2600 is more than just a game; it’s a piece of gaming history. Its iconic gameplay and alien designs are instantly recognizable. While it might seem simple by today’s standards, it offers a pure and challenging gaming experience that’s timeless.

Keystone Kapers | Best Chase Gameplay

Keystone Kapers Review

Keystone Kapers brings a unique chase dynamic to the Atari 2600, tasking players with catching a thief while navigating various obstacles. Its colorful graphics and increasing difficulty levels ensure that players remain engaged. It’s a delightful addition to any retro gaming collection.

Grand Prix Atari 2600 | Best Retro Racing Experience

Grand Prix Atari 2600 Review

Grand Prix for the Atari 2600 offers a thrilling racing experience, capturing the essence of speed and competition. Its vibrant graphics and sound effects enhance the gameplay, making it a standout title for the console. It’s a must-play for fans of classic racing games.

Pole Position | Pioneer of Racing Simulations

Pole Position Review

Pole Position is a cornerstone in the racing game genre, offering a realistic simulation for its time. Its competitive gameplay and iconic visuals make it a classic that paved the way for future racing titles. A must-have for any retro gaming enthusiast.

Chopper Command Atari 2600 | Best Aerial Combat Game

Chopper Command Atari 2600 Review

Chopper Command for the Atari 2600 is a thrilling combat game where players navigate a helicopter through challenging scenarios. Its vibrant graphics and smooth controls make it a joy to play, while the challenging enemies ensure that players remain engaged. It’s a hidden gem in the Atari 2600 library.

What Makes an Atari Game the Best?

Atari games are not just about pixels and beeps. They represent the dawn of home gaming, bringing joy to millions. The best Atari games offer engaging gameplay, innovative mechanics, and a dose of nostalgia.

7 Essential Buying Criteria for Atari Games

1. gameplay.

At the heart of any great Atari game is its gameplay. The best titles offer a perfect blend of challenge and engagement, ensuring players remain hooked. Whether it’s the thrill of dodging asteroids, navigating mazes, or shooting down alien invaders, the gameplay should be intuitive yet demanding, pushing players to hone their skills and achieve higher scores.

2. Graphics

While Atari graphics might seem primitive by today’s standards, they were groundbreaking in their time. The best Atari games showcased vibrant colors, smooth animations, and detailed sprites that brought the game world to life. When considering an Atari game, it’s essential to appreciate its visual appeal in the context of its era, recognizing the creativity and innovation that went into every pixel.

Sound is an often overlooked but crucial aspect of Atari games. The iconic beeps, blips, and chiptune soundtracks of classic titles are instantly recognizable and add depth to the gaming experience. A memorable soundtrack or sound effect can elevate a game from good to great, immersing players in the game’s world and enhancing the overall experience.

4. Replay Value

Replay value is a testament to a game’s longevity and appeal. The best Atari games are those that players return to time and again, driven by the desire to beat their high scores or discover new secrets. Whether it’s through varied gameplay mechanics, multiple difficulty levels, or just sheer addictive fun, a game’s replay value is a clear indicator of its quality.

5. Originality

In a market saturated with similar titles, originality is a breath of fresh air. The most memorable Atari games brought something new to the table, whether it was a unique gameplay mechanic, an innovative story, or a fresh take on a familiar genre. Originality ensures that a game stands out from the crowd and offers players a unique and unforgettable experience.

6. Popularity

While popularity isn’t the only measure of a game’s quality, it’s often a reliable indicator. Popular games have usually struck a chord with a broad audience, delivering gameplay, graphics, and sound that resonate with many. When a game is loved by many, it’s often for a good reason , and its popularity can be a testament to its quality and appeal.

Some games are more than just fleeting entertainment; they leave a lasting impact on the industry and influence future titles. A game’s legacy speaks to its significance in the gaming world. Whether it introduced a new genre, pioneered a gameplay mechanic, or simply set new standards for quality, games with a strong legacy have shaped the course of gaming history and continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.

Did You Know?

According to a survey by Statista, “Space Invaders” and “Pac-Man”, both available on Atari, are among the best-selling arcade games of all time, with over 360,000 and 400,000 arcade cabinets sold respectively.

Fact: “Adventure” for the Atari 2600, released in 1980, is often credited as the first action-adventure video game. It introduced many innovative elements that are now common in games.

Quote: Nolan Bushnell, the founder of Atari, once said, “Video games foster the mindset that allows creativity to grow.” This speaks volumes about the impact of Atari games.

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One response to “Discover the 7 Best Atari Games Ever: A Nostalgic Journey Back in Time!”

Owen Gower, you’ve done it again! Such a riveting piece – it resonated with my own experiences in the field. Have you considered the recent data trends on this topic? I feel that could add a new dimension to your arguments. Moreover, perhaps discussing the potential implications on smaller, local industries might provide a fresh perspective? On a personal note, I found my recent trip to a local industry starkly showed me the impact of these issues. Thoughts? đŸ€”đŸ’­

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Atari 2600 logo

Journey Escape by Data Age on the Atari 2600

Journey Escape is a video game developed and manufactured by Data Age in San Jose, California for the Atari 2600 console

journey atari game value

General Information

Developer - Data Age

Publisher - Data Age

Release - 1982

Platform(s) - Atari 2600

Number of Players - Single-player

Genre - Action

Social Media

You're on the road with Journey, one of the world's hottest rock groups. A spectacular performance has just ended. Now it's up to you to guide each Journey Band Member past hordes of Love-Crazed Groupies, Sneaky Photographers, and Shifty-Eyed Promoters to the safety of the Journey Escape Vehicle in time to make the next concert. Your mighty manager and loyal roadies are there to help, but the escape is up to you! The player must lead the band members to their "Scarab Escape Vehicle" (as featured on the cover) and protect the concert cash from "love-crazed" groupies, sneaky photographers, stage barriers and "shifty-eyed" promoters. Assisting the player are roadies, which provided short periods of immunity to obstacles, and The Manager, inexplicably depicted as the Kool-Aid Man, which allowed the player to move to the Scarab completely unhindered. The screen scrolls vertically non-stop, although the speed can be controlled; the player moves side to side to dodge the aforementioned obstacles.

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Journey Escape

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About Atari 2600 Journey Escape

Journey Escape is a unique video game for the Atari 2600 console that puts players in the shoes of the members of Journey, one of the world’s hottest rock groups at the time. The game’s objective is to guide each band member past various obstacles to reach the safety of the Journey Escape Vehicle in time for the next concert.

The gameplay consists of a vertically scrolling screen that moves continuously, with the player controlling the speed. Players move the band members side to side to dodge obstacles, such as love-crazed groupies, sneaky photographers, stage barriers, and shifty-eyed promoters, all while protecting the concert cash.

To assist the player in their escape, roadies provide short periods of immunity to obstacles, and The Manager, represented by the Kool-Aid Man, grants the player unhindered movement to the Scarab Escape Vehicle. Journey Escape challenges players to navigate the chaotic world of rock stardom while ensuring the band makes it to their next performance on time.

Journey Escape Atari 2600 game facts

GAME TITLE: Journey Escape

PLATFORM: Atari 2600

GAME ORIGIN: 3rd party

MODEL NUMBER:

RELEASE DATE: 1982

GAME GENRE: Action

FAVORITE COUNT: 1

USER RATING: 2 ( 2 )

COMMENTS

  1. Journey Escape Prices Atari 2600

    Box Only. $5.38. Manual Only. $4.01. All prices are the current market price. Journey Escape (Atari 2600) prices are based on the historic sales. The prices shown are calculated using our proprietary algorithm. Historic sales data are completed sales with a buyer and a seller agreeing on a price.

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  5. Journey Atari 2600 Video Games for sale

    Get the best deals on Journey Atari 2600 Video Games and expand your gaming library with the largest online selection at eBay.com. Fast & Free shipping on many items!

  6. Journey Escape

    Atari 2600. Release. NA: 1982. Genre (s) Action. Mode (s) Single-player. Journey Escape is a video game developed and manufactured by Data Age in San Jose, California for the Atari 2600 console, and released in 1982. [2] It stars the rock band Journey, one of the world's most popular acts at the time, and is based on their album Escape.

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  10. Journey Escape Value

    Completed Sales. WATA Sales VGA Sales. Total Sold Sealed CIB CIB IMP No Seal Loose Cart Box Only Prototype Homebrew Accessory GEN Sealed GEN CIB 0.5 1.8 3.0 4.5 6.0 7.5 9.0 9.6 10.0 0 0.5 1 1.5. Grade. Sealed.

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  12. Journey Escape (Atari 2600, 1982) for sale online

    Journey Escape Atari 2600 Videogame Cartridge with Instruction Manual. $4.99 +$6.52 shipping. ... Journey Atari 2600 Video Games. Atari 2600 Consoles. Atari 2600 Games. Atari for Atari 2600 Gamepads. Atari 2600 Accessories. Journey Escape (Atari 2600, 1982) 1 product rating | Write a review About this product.

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  15. That time the band Journey made an Atari 2600 game

    Believe it or not, Journey signed off on not one but two game versions of themselves in the early 80s - 1982's Atari 2600 title from mighty developer Data Age, and then an unrelated 1983 arcade cabinet from Bally Midway that even had digitized band member images. But the Data Age title was next-level even by the hit-or-miss standards of ...

  16. Remembering Journey's ancient Atari 2600 video game

    It was in the midst of this video game irrational exuberance that a company called Data Age released an Atari 2600 game based on the 1981 Journey album, Escape. It was an insanely successful album ...

  17. Journey Escape Review for Atari 2600:

    For Journey Escape on the Atari 2600, a reader review titled "". ... big of a fan). It's quite annoying and repetitive, which pretty much puts it on par for Atari games. ... paying attention to your money would probably be fun and give you some enjoyment. But, like I said, it's a bad game. Any replay value here is worlds apart from a game ...

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  19. Amazon.com: Journey Escape (Atari 2600) : Video Games

    Journey Escape is an Action game, published by Data Age, which was released in 1982. Brief content visible, double tap to read full content. ... Replay value not really high though. Read more. One person found this helpful. Helpful. Report. Lindalut. 4.0 out of 5 stars Fun game. Reviewed in the United States đŸ‡ș🇾 on January 21, 2010.

  20. Journey Escape by Data Age on the Atari 2600

    Publisher - Data Age. Release - 1982. Platform (s) - Atari 2600. Number of Players - Single-player. Genre - Action. You're on the road with Journey, one of the world's hottest rock groups. A spectacular performance has just ended. Now it's up to you to guide each Journey Band Member past hordes of Love-Crazed Groupies, Sneaky Photographers, and ...

  21. Journey's Atari 2600 Game #MusicMonday

    Believe it or not, Journey signed off on not one but two game versions of themselves in the early 80s - 1982's Atari 2600 title from mighty developer Data Age, and then an unrelated 1983 arcade cabinetfrom Bally Midway that even had digitized band member images.

  22. Journey Escape Atari 2600 Complete Game Gameplay

    https://www.patreon.com/NoSwearGamerhttps://www.facebook.com/thenosweargamerhttps://twitter.com/thenosweargamerThis is just the gameplay without commentary f...

  23. Journey Escape (Atari 2600) online game

    The game's objective is to guide each band member past various obstacles to reach the safety of the Journey Escape Vehicle in time for the next concert. The gameplay consists of a vertically scrolling screen that moves continuously, with the player controlling the speed. Players move the band members side to side to dodge obstacles, such as ...