10 Most Expensive Video Game Consoles
Video game consoles have been around since the 1970s. And as decades passed, consoles have continually evolved not just in terms of power and technology but also in prices as well. The first-ever console, the Odyssey, only cost $99. Compared to the newest consoles today, prices for the Playstation 5 and the Xbox Series X/S can go as high as $500. And this doesn’t even include the Windows PC which can be a console if the player decides to turn it into a high-end gaming device. Consoles are indeed costly, but there have been times that prices have gone up further especially for special edition units. Here are the eight most expensive video game consoles ever released:
1. Philips CD-i - $1,800
The Philips CD-i (Compact Disc Interactive) was an innovative multimedia platform developed by Philips in collaboration with Sony, aiming to merge interactive entertainment with educational content. Launched in 1991, it was designed to function as a versatile home entertainment system, capable of playing interactive CD-i discs, audio CDs, CD+G (CD+Graphics), and, with an optional Digital Video Cartridge, Video CDs (VCDs).
2. Neo Geo - $1,550
The Neo Geo is a renowned video game platform developed by SNK Corporation, first introduced in 1990. It encompasses both arcade and home console systems, celebrated for delivering high-quality, arcade-like gaming experiences.
Neo Geo Multi Video System (MVS): Launched in 1990, the MVS is an arcade system board that allows operators to install up to six different games in a single cabinet, optimizing space and cost efficiency. This flexibility contributed to its widespread adoption in arcades.
3. 3DO Interactive Multiplayer - $1,500
The 3DO Interactive Multiplayer, released in 1993, was a groundbreaking video game console developed by The 3DO Company. It featured advanced multimedia capabilities and a CD-ROM format. Despite innovative technology and extensive game library, high pricing limited its success in the market.
4. Intellivision - $1,190
Intellivision, launched by Mattel in 1979, was a pioneering home video game console known for its innovative 16-bit microprocessor and unique controller with a number pad and overlays. It competed with Atari 2600 and influenced future console designs with advanced gameplay.
5. Atari 2600 - $1,000
The Atari 2600, launched in 1977, revolutionized home gaming with its interchangeable cartridges and joystick controllers. Known for classics like Space Invaders and Pitfall!, it laid the foundation for modern video gaming, making interactive entertainment widely accessible and popular.
6. Atari 5200 - $864
The Atari 5200, released in 1982, was a second-generation home video game console designed to compete with the Intellivision. Known for its advanced graphics and unique analog controllers, it struggled due to poor marketing, compatibility issues, and stiff competition from the emerging gaming market.
7. Sega Saturn - $825
The Sega Saturn, launched in 1994, was a 32-bit fifth-generation console known for its impressive 2D graphics and dual-CPU architecture. Despite pioneering efforts, it faced tough competition from Sony's PlayStation and struggled with third-party support, ultimately leading to limited commercial success.
8. PlayStation 3 - $780
The PlayStation 3, released in 2006 by Sony, was a seventh-generation console known for its advanced Blu-ray support, strong online capabilities through PlayStation Network, and iconic exclusives like Uncharted. It featured backward compatibility, multimedia capabilities, and cutting-edge graphics for its time.
9. PlayStation 5 Pro - $699
The PlayStation 5 Pro is an advanced version of the PS5, featuring enhanced performance with upgraded GPU and CPU capabilities. It offers improved 4K gaming, ray tracing, and potential 8K support, catering to gamers seeking higher frame rates and greater graphical fidelity.
10. Xbox One - $499
The Xbox One, released in 2013, is Microsoft's eighth-generation video game console. It features an AMD Accelerated Processing Unit, supports 4K video streaming, and offers backward compatibility with select Xbox 360 titles. The console emphasizes internet-based features, including gameplay recording and streaming.
