Best N64 Games to Collect in 2026
The Nintendo 64 has entered full nostalgia mode. The console that defined late-90s gaming is now a serious collecting category, with prices climbing for complete-in-box copies and even loose cartridges of the best titles. Whether you're building your first N64 collection or hunting for the games you owned as a kid, knowing which titles hold value and gameplay relevance in 2026 is critical.
This guide covers the best N64 games to collect right now — a mix of affordable classics, mid-tier must-haves, and rare titles worth tracking down if your budget allows.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Why collect it: Widely considered one of the greatest games of all time, Ocarina of Time is the cornerstone of any N64 collection. It's not rare, but complete-in-box copies in good condition have appreciated steadily. The gold cartridge variant (first print run) commands a premium.
Current value (2026): Loose cartridge: $35-50. Complete in box: $150-250. Gold cartridge CIB: $300-450.
Playability: Still holds up. The 3D Zelda formula was perfected here — dungeons, exploration, music, and story all land perfectly.
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Collector tip: The gray cartridge is more common than the gold, but both play identically. Gold is purely a collector's item.
2. GoldenEye 007
Why collect it: The game that proved first-person shooters could work on consoles. GoldenEye's multiplayer mode defined countless sleepovers and remains iconic. It's common, but complete-in-box copies with the manual and poster insert are harder to find than you'd expect.
Current value (2026): Loose cartridge: $25-35. Complete in box: $100-150.
Playability: Multiplayer holds up if you can tolerate N64-era graphics and controls. Single-player feels slow by modern standards but has charm.
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Collector tip: The manual often has water damage or tears from years in storage. Inspect condition closely if buying online.
3. Super Mario 64
Why collect it: The game that launched the N64 and redefined platformers in 3D. Every collector should own this. It's common, affordable, and still incredibly fun to play. Complete-in-box copies are easy to find and reasonably priced compared to other flagship titles.
Current value (2026): Loose cartridge: $20-30. Complete in box: $80-120.
Playability: Timeless. The controls are tight, the level design is brilliant, and the game respects your time. Speedrunners still compete on this title.
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Collector tip: The "Player's Choice" reprint with the yellow banner on the box is worth less than the original black label release.
4. Mario Kart 64
Why collect it: The multiplayer karting game that defined the genre. Rainbow Road, battle mode, and four-player split-screen chaos — this game is a must-own for the nostalgia factor alone. Copies are abundant, but condition matters for collectors.
Current value (2026): Loose cartridge: $30-40. Complete in box: $100-150.
Playability: Still fun in short bursts, especially with friends. Tracks are memorable, and the rubber-banding AI keeps races competitive (or frustrating, depending on your tolerance).
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Collector tip: The game's box art is vibrant and prone to fading. Look for copies stored away from sunlight.
5. Paper Mario
Why collect it: One of the last major N64 releases and one of the best RPGs on the system. Paper Mario has a dedicated fanbase, and complete-in-box copies have appreciated significantly in recent years. The game is charming, accessible, and still worth playing.
Current value (2026): Loose cartridge: $60-90. Complete in box: $250-400.
Playability: Excellent. The art style is timeless, the turn-based combat is engaging, and the humor lands. If you skipped it in 2000, now's the time to experience it.
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Collector tip: This game often shows up in "childhood collection" lots on eBay. Watch for deals if you're patient.
Honorable Mentions: Mid-Tier Collectibles
These games are slightly harder to find or more expensive but worth adding if you're serious about collecting:
- Banjo-Kazooie — Rare platformer with personality, holds value well (CIB: $120-180)
- The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask — Darker follow-up to Ocarina, holographic label variant is collectible (CIB: $180-300)
- Conker's Bad Fur Day — Mature-rated rarity with cult following (CIB: $600-900)
- Pokémon Snap — Nostalgic photography game, affordable entry point (CIB: $80-120)
- F-Zero X — Fast-paced racer with dedicated fanbase (CIB: $100-150)
High-End Grails (If Budget Allows)
For advanced collectors, these are the N64 games that command serious prices:
- Sculptors Cut (ClayFighter 63 1/3) — Blockbuster Video exclusive, extremely rare (CIB: $2000+)
- Harvest Moon 64 — Low print run, high demand from RPG collectors (CIB: $800-1200)
- Bomberman 64: The Second Attack — Late release, overlooked gem (CIB: $600-900)
Final Thoughts
Start your N64 collection with the heavy hitters — Super Mario 64, Ocarina of Time, GoldenEye, and Mario Kart 64. These four games are affordable, easy to find, and define the console's legacy. From there, add Paper Mario if you love RPGs, Banjo-Kazooie for platforming depth, or Majora's Mask to complete your Zelda set.
Focus on condition. Loose cartridges are fine for playing, but complete-in-box copies appreciate faster and look better on a shelf. Buy from reputable sellers, inspect photos closely, and avoid reproductions (check for "Made in Japan" or "Made in Mexico" stamps on cartridges).
The N64 market has matured. Prices are stable for common games and rising for rarities. Collect what you love, play what you buy, and enjoy the hunt.
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