Classic Nostalgia Worth Serious Cash

Retro arcade machines are more than just gaming nostalgia—they’re serious investments. Classic cabinets from the '70s, '80s, and '90s are now highly collectible and can sell for thousands, especially if they’re in original condition. Whether you’re into pixelated platformers or vintage fighting games, these old-school cabinets are worth watching (and maybe cashing in on). Here are 25 retro arcade machines that collectors are paying big money for today.

Pong (Atari, 1972)

The one that started it all. If you find an original Pong machine from Atari's early run, it could be worth a mint—especially if it’s working.

Estimated value: $4,000–$15,000+

Pac-Man (Midway, 1980)

One of the most iconic arcade machines ever. Clean, original Pac-Man cabinets are in high demand and fetch solid prices.

Estimated value: $2,000–$7,000+

Ms. Pac-Man (Midway, 1981)

A twist on the original that arguably became even more popular. Fully working units with original parts can be very valuable.

Estimated value: $2,500–$8,000+

Galaga (Midway, 1981)

A staple of arcades in the early '80s. Collectors prize working units with crisp graphics and original monitors.

Estimated value: $2,500–$8,500+

Tempest (Atari, 1981)

A vector graphics classic that’s become a collector’s favorite. Fully functioning units fetch top prices.

Estimated value: $2,500–$6,000+

Frogger (Sega/Gremlin, 1981)

That catchy music and traffic-dodging gameplay still make people smile. Original cabinets are a hot item.

Estimated value: $2,000–$5,000+

Asteroids (Atari, 1979)

Another vector-based classic. Early upright cabinets in good shape are always in demand.

Estimated value: $1,800–$4,500+

Defender (Williams, 1981)

A fast-paced shooter with serious difficulty. The unique control panel and cabinet design boost its collectibility.

Estimated value: $2,000–$6,000+

Joust (Williams, 1982)

A quirky flying ostrich game that’s now a retro gem. Well-maintained cabinets are worth good money.

Estimated value: $1,500–$4,000+

Q*bert (Gottlieb, 1982)

Famous for its diagonal gameplay and colorful visuals. Cabinets in working order with original controls are collectible.

Estimated value: $2,000–$5,000+

Tron (Bally Midway, 1982)

Based on the movie, this cabinet has glowing neon features and unique gameplay. Super collectible.

Estimated value: $3,000–$9,000+

Dragon’s Lair (Cinematronics, 1983)

This laserdisc game blew minds in the ‘80s with its cartoon-quality visuals. Working laserdisc units are tough to find and super valuable.

Estimated value: $4,000–$12,000+

Punch-Out!! (Nintendo, 1984)

A dual-screen cabinet that’s rare and beloved. Nintendo collectors will pay top dollar.

Estimated value: $3,500–$9,000+

Double Dragon (Technōs, 1987)

Classic side-scrolling beat-’em-up. Cabinets in decent shape still fetch high prices.

Estimated value: $2,000–$5,000+

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Konami, 1989)

The four-player co-op game that ruled arcades in the late ‘80s. Collectors want the original 4-player cabinet setup.

Estimated value: $3,000–$7,000+

Street Fighter II (Capcom, 1991)

One of the most influential fighting games ever. Champion Edition or Turbo versions are most sought after.

Estimated value: $2,500–$6,000+

Mortal Kombat (Midway, 1992)

The arcade fighter that made waves with its violence. Original cabinets with decals and soundboards are highly collectible.

Estimated value: $2,000–$5,000+