Mario Collector Consoles: Nintendo Editions Guide
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GuideCollector's consolesNintendo
Limited editions that turned into objects of desire, from the GBA SP to the Switch. This guide rounds up the collector's consoles devoted to the plumber: the Super Mario Odyssey Switch from 2017, the Mario red 3DS XL from 2012, the Wii 25th anniversary bundle from 2010 and the Game Boy Advance SP in Mario colours. It looks back at this in-house tradition and at what these machines are worth today.
The collector's consoles devoted to Mario stand as the pinnacle of video game craft for any fan of Nintendo. These limited editions, true objects of desire, bear witness to the outstanding legacy of the moustachioed plumber and to his undeniable cultural impact on the world of video games.
Contents
- 1. The history of Mario collector's consoles
- 2. The Red Edition: a visual icon
- 3. The Super Mario Bros. 25th anniversary bundle
- 4. Other iconic collector's editions
- 5. Value and rarity of Mario consoles
- 6. Tips for starting a Mario collection
- 7. The future of Mario collector's editions
- 8. Conclusion
The History of Mario Collector's Consoles: A Nintendo Tradition
Ever since the 1980s, Nintendo has kept up a tradition of collector's consoles to mark the high points of the Mario franchise. As far back as the days of the NES, a handful of special units were handed out at events such as the Nintendo World Championships, and though barely official, they are today ultra-rare.
The Legendary Red Edition: A Symbol of Passion and Excellence
Nintendo Switch Super Mario Odyssey Edition
Released in October 2017, this Switch sported a bright red inspired by Mario's cap. It came with exclusive red Joy-Con, a carrying case themed after Mario Odyssey, and a digital version of the game. It is one of the most coveted modern collector's editions.
Nintendo 3DS XL Mario Red Edition
Released in 2012, this console offered a sleek red shell with a Mario logo. Far from over-designed, it still wins people over today for its restraint and its relative rarity.
The 25th Anniversary Bundle: Celebrating a Quarter-Century of Adventures
What's Inside the Collector's Bundle
- Super Mario All-Stars version Wii
- Art book of 32 pages
- Official soundtrack on CD
- Collector's box in red and gold
Launched in 2010, this anniversary box set was a fine tribute, even if the port of the SNES game brought no major improvements.
Other Iconic Collector's Editions
- Nintendo Switch OLED Mario Red Edition (2023): matte red finish, gold accents, no game included.
- Game Boy Advance SP Mario Edition: metallic red design with a gold button, rare and sought after.
- Nintendo DS Lite Super Mario Bros.: Mario red colourway, sold in a bundle with New Super Mario Bros.
Value and Rarity: The Art of Collecting Mario Consoles
Key Factors Behind the Price
- Rarity (units produced)
- Condition (new, complete, sealed…)
- History (anniversary edition, crossover)
Average Value Estimate
| Model | Year | Estimate (EUR) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch Mario Odyssey | 2017 | 450 – 600 | Exclusive red Joy-Con, case, game |
| 3DS XL Mario Red | 2012 | 280 – 400 | Engraved logo, understated design |
| Wii 25th anniversary bundle | 2010 | 150 – 250 | CD, art book, premium packaging |
| GBA SP Mario | approx. 2004 | 200 – 350 | Red and gold, backlit screen |
Tips for Starting a Mario Console Collection
Strategy
- Focus on one generation (handhelds or home consoles)
- Keep an eye on limited editions bundled with games
- Steer clear of lots with no box or with missing parts
Storage
- Use storage boxes that are neutral and moisture-free
- Keep the cables, manuals and stickers intact
- Handle them as little as possible to preserve their original condition
The Future of Mario Collector's Consoles
With the arrival of the Switch 2 and the growing appetite for retro items, Nintendo could unveil even more prestigious editions in the years ahead. Some fans are already dreaming of OLED editions engraved with a laser or made in collaboration with Japanese artists such as Takashi Murakami.
🍄 Want to keep the adventure going? Check out our Mario toys in the shop.
Conclusion: Mario, a Timeless Collecting Icon
Mario collector's consoles are far more than pieces of hardware: they are digital works of art celebrating more than 35 years of gaming history. Their rarity and their value only keep climbing as nostalgia and geek culture win ever more recognition in the worlds of design and pop culture.
FAQ
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Which Mario collector's console is the most sought after?The Nintendo Switch Mario Odyssey, especially brand new and still sealed.
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Is there a Mario collector's console for every generation?Yes, although the N64 and the GameCube never got a console in dedicated Mario colours; they were mostly offered in official bundles with Mario games (packs Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine).
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Where can you buy a Mario collector's console safely?On established platforms such as eBay (top-rated sellers), LeBonCoin with an in-person handover, or specialist retro shops.
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Do these consoles gain in value?Yes, especially when they are new and complete with their original box and accessories.
Choosing well
Figures, plush toys, bricks and amiibo: our buying guide helps you choose a Mario gift by age and by budget.
🎁 The Mario buying guide →