Metroid (NES) Value Guide

This Metroid (NES) cartridge is part of the later 'Adventure Series' production run, featuring a distinct yellow label that sets it apart from the 1987 original. It represents a pivotal moment in gaming history, introducing Samus Aran and the non-linear exploration that defined the Metroidvania genre.

What Is Metroid (NES) Worth?

The typical price range for Metroid (NES) is $25 - $28 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the yellow label, specifically checking for 'bubbling,' peeling, or UV-induced fading.
• The state of the gray plastic shell, including the absence of cracks, chips, or permanent marker inscriptions from previous owners.
• The cleanliness and functionality of the gold-plated connector pins on the internal circuit board.
• Current market demand for the Adventure Series variant relative to the more expensive 1987 black-box first edition.

How to Identify Metroid (NES)?

• Look for the prominent yellow 'Adventure Series' logo on the front label, which replaced the original 1987 pixel-art design.
• Confirm the presence of the official Nintendo Seal of Quality and the standard gray plastic NES cartridge housing.
• Check the internal PCB for authentic gold-plated contacts and the specific NES-MT-USA product code.
• Verify the assembly style, as these later runs typically feature the 3-screw cartridge design common between 1989 and 1994.

History of Metroid (NES)

Released in North America in 1987, Metroid introduced players to Samus Aran, one of the first prominent female protagonists in video games. It pioneered the 'Metroidvania' genre, characterized by non-linear exploration and ability-based progression. This specific 'Adventure Series' yellow label version is a later production run compared to the original 1987 pixel-art box release.