As parents and grandparents, introducing your kids and grandkids to the things you loved growing up is a special experience. Whether it’s music, movies, or video games, it’s an opportunity to share memories, create new ones, and bond with family. In today’s digital age, bringing back classic NES games offers more than just nostalgia, it’s about passing down a piece of history. These games were the first of their kind, and today, they’re not only fun to play, but they’ve also become highly collectible due to their rarity and significance in gaming history.

With each passing year, these NES classics are getting harder to find, especially in good condition. Their influence on modern gaming, combined with their role as some of the first appearances of now-iconic characters, makes them treasures for any family or collector. Let’s dive into 10 NES classics that are not only a blast to play but are also becoming harder to find, making them perfect additions to any retro gaming collection.

Quick Family Story:

I’ll always remember that snowy Saturday when my mom came over with an old, dusty NES she’d dug out of storage. She smiled and said, "You used to play this for hours when you were little." She plugged it in and booted up Super Mario Bros., a game I hadn’t touched in decades. My kids were curious, so we started taking turns with the controller, laughing as we tried to beat that first level. Before long, the whole family was gathered around, cheering each other on.

It wasn’t just about the game, it was about sharing a piece of my own childhood with my kids. Seeing their excitement reminded me of my own as a kid, and it brought us all closer. Now, every time I see an NES, I think of that afternoon and how a simple video game helped connect our family in a way I’ll never forget.

1. Super Mario Bros. (Released: 1985)

Super Mario Bros. is one of the most collectible NES games today, not just because of its gameplay, but because it’s the first appearance of Mario as a platforming hero. This is where the iconic character began his journey to becoming the face of Nintendo and, arguably, video gaming as a whole. The game’s simple yet challenging design, colorful world, and memorable music make it a joy to play even now. But what makes Super Mario Bros. even more valuable today is how it literally saved the video game industry after the 1983 crash, making it one of the most historically significant games ever.

Why it’s collectible:
As Mario’s first major adventure, original copies of Super Mario Bros. are highly sought after by collectors. As the years go by, finding an authentic, complete version with its original box and manual is getting harder. This game is more than a classic, it’s a piece of gaming history.

Family connection:
Introduce your kids to Mario in his first big adventure. There’s a reason why this game is still loved today, it’s fun, timeless, and a perfect way to bond over gaming.

2. The Legend of Zelda (Released: 1986)

The Legend of Zelda was the first game in the now legendary Zelda series. It introduced the world to the magical land of Hyrule, Princess Zelda, and the brave hero, Link. What made this game revolutionary was its open-world design, where players could explore at their own pace, find hidden treasures, and solve puzzles. This freedom was groundbreaking in the 1980s. And, of course, who can forget the iconic golden cartridge, which has become a symbol of prestige for any NES collection?

Why it’s collectible:
This is Link’s first adventure and the beginning of a series that has become one of the most beloved in gaming history. A complete copy with the golden cartridge and original packaging is considered a valuable treasure among collectors. As fewer copies remain in good condition, the rarity and value of this game continue to rise.

Family connection:
Exploring the world of Zelda with your kids is a great way to work together and discover the magic of adventure gaming. This game teaches patience, problem-solving, and teamwork.

3. Metroid (Released: 1986)

Metroid not only introduced the gaming world to the first female main character in a shocking reveal at the end in the form of Samus Aran but also pioneered the "explore and upgrade" gameplay style. Players navigate an alien world, unlocking new abilities that allow them to revisit areas and discover new secrets. This gameplay was rare in the 1980s and helped define the genre. Today, Metroid is considered one of the most influential games ever, and its impact is still seen in modern gaming.

Why it’s collectible:
As the first appearance of Samus Aran, Metroid holds a special place in gaming history. The game’s importance and the fact that it was one of the earliest "explore and upgrade" titles make it highly desirable for collectors.

Family connection:
Help your kids navigate the world of Metroid and enjoy the sense of discovery as you work through challenges together. Sharing this groundbreaking game can be a fun way to introduce kids to a strong female hero in a sci-fi setting.

4. Excitebike (Released: 1984)

Excitebike may not be the first game that comes to mind when thinking of NES classics, but its innovative track design feature set it apart from other racing games of the time. Players could create their own motocross tracks, making each race a unique experience. This ability to create your own tracks was a novelty in the 1980s and showed just how forward-thinking Nintendo was when it came to letting players experiment.

Why it’s collectible:
Because Excitebike was a launch title for the NES and one of the earliest examples of user-generated content, it holds a special place in retro gaming history.

Family connection:
Race your kids or design challenging courses together. The simplicity of the game makes it easy for everyone to jump in, and the creative element adds extra fun.

5. Dr. Mario (Released: 1990)

Dr. Mario was Nintendo’s answer to puzzle games like Tetris, but with a unique twist: players controlled Mario as he threw colored pills to eliminate viruses. The simple, addictive gameplay made it a hit with players of all ages. Its bright colors and catchy music made it a family favorite, and it became a staple of NES collections in the ‘90s.

Why it’s collectible:
While Dr. Mario may not be Mario’s first appearance, it was one of his first non-platforming roles, which makes it a fun collectible for fans of the iconic character. Puzzle games with this kind of depth were rare for the time, and copies of Dr. Mario have become harder to find.

Family connection:
Compete with your kids to see who can clear the most viruses. This game is perfect for teaching strategy and quick thinking in a fun, colorful way.

6. Tecmo Bowl (Released: 1989)

Before Madden, there was Tecmo Bowl, a football game that allowed players to control real NFL teams and players. This was a huge leap forward in sports gaming at the time, as it was one of the first games to offer real NFL licenses. The gameplay was simple yet strategic, and it quickly became a favorite for sports fans.

Why it’s collectible:
Tecmo Bowl’s use of real NFL teams and players was groundbreaking, making it a valuable piece of sports gaming history.

Family connection:
Play as your favorite team and compete for the championship with your kids. Whether or not they’re big football fans, the fun and easy-to-learn gameplay makes this game a hit for all ages.

7. Castlevania (Released: 1986)

Castlevania introduced players to Simon Belmont, a vampire hunter tasked with defeating Dracula. Its dark atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and iconic music made it an instant classic. Castlevania’s influence can be seen in countless games today, especially in the "Metroidvania" genre, which combines exploration with action.

Why it’s collectible:
This is the first game in the Castlevania series, which went on to become one of Konami’s biggest franchises. Finding the original game has become harder due to its iconic status and influence on later games. Its collectible value continues to rise.

Family connection:
For families with older kids, Castlevania offers a great challenge and a memorable experience. Share the excitement of taking down Dracula together and see who can handle the tough bosses the best.

8. Duck Hunt (Released: 1984)

Duck Hunt was bundled with the NES and came with the NES Zapper, a light gun that allowed players to shoot ducks on the screen. The game was simple but hugely popular, and it became one of the most iconic games on the NES. Its simplicity and family-friendly gameplay made it a hit across generations.

Why it’s collectible:
The combination of the NES Zapper and Duck Hunt made this a must-have game back in the day, and today, it remains a nostalgic favorite for many gamers. Complete sets that include the Zapper and original game packaging are increasingly rare, especially in working condition.

Family connection:
Take turns trying to beat each other’s high scores and enjoy the light-hearted fun of shooting ducks on screen. It’s a perfect game for younger kids, and the novelty of the Zapper makes it even more enjoyable.

9. Mike Tyson's  Punch-Out!! (Released: 1987)

Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! is a boxing game that pits players against quirky, memorable opponents like Glass Joe, King Hippo, Bald Bull and Even Mike Tyson himself. The game requires quick reflexes and strategy, as each opponent has their own fighting style. Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! became famous not just for its gameplay but for its colorful cast of characters and challenging mechanics.

Why it’s collectible:
Punch-Out!! was one of the most beloved sports games on the NES, and its iconic status has made it a valuable collectible. While it has been re-released over the years, the original NES version is the one collectors seek out. Finding an original copy is becoming increasingly difficult due Mike Tyson's Popularity and to its nostalgic appeal.

Family connection:
Boxing against these larger-than-life characters is a fun way to introduce your kids to a classic game with a competitive edge. You’ll have a blast teaching them the strategies to take down each fighter.

Collecting NES Classics: Why These Games Are So Valuable Today

As the first appearances of iconic characters like Mario, Zelda, and Samus, these NES games aren’t just great to play, they are valuable pieces of gaming history. The first editions of anything are always sought after, and these games defined genres, introduced groundbreaking mechanics, and paved the way for the games we enjoy today. Finding these games in their original packaging, complete with manuals, is becoming rarer as collectors hold on to them.

Whether you’re introducing these games to a new generation or adding them to your own retro collection, these original NES classics are more than just cartridges, they’re memories, milestones, and artifacts from a golden age of gaming. At DKOldies, we’re proud to help you rediscover these treasures and keep the spirit of retro gaming alive.