Pokemon FireRed is one of the most popular and valuable Pokemon games for the Game Boy Advance. As a remake of the original Pokemon Red version, it allows players to relive the classic Pokemon adventures from the Kanto region with updated graphics and gameplay. But with high demand from Pokemon fans and collectors, what can you expect to pay for a copy of Pokemon FireRed these days? Let’s take a look at the factors that determine the current value of Pokemon FireRed.
The Popularity and Nostalgia of Gen 1 Pokemon Games
As the first generation of Pokemon games for the Game Boy, Red, Blue, and Yellow version carved out a special place in many gamers’ hearts. The chance to re-experience the original 151 Pokemon in FireRed and LeafGreen drove strong sales and demand when they launched in 2004. Now, for hardcore fans and collectors, owning a sealed copy or even just the box and cartridge can be highly desirable as a nostalgic piece.
Limited Production Run
While Pokemon Red and Blue sold over 45 million copies, and Gold and Silver over 23 million, the sales of Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen were more limited at around 12 million copies. As remakes, the Gen 1 remake games had a shorter print run before the launch of new titles. Fewer cartridges in circulation means higher rarity and value for collectors’ items.
Condition Impacts Value
Like any collectible item, the condition of a Pokemon FireRed cartridge or full boxset impacts the value significantly. Here is an overview of how condition grades affect value:
| Condition | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Sealed/Mint | Unopened box and packaging in perfect condition | $300 – $1000+ |
| Complete | Used but excellent condition box, manual, and cartridge | $150 – $300 |
| Good | Cartridge only in good used condition | $50 – $100 |
| Poor | Damaged box or cartridge | $10 – $50 |
As you can see, sealed and pristine condition items fetch premium prices from serious collectors.
Authentic Copies Are More Valuable
Like any popular retro game, fakes and reproduction cartridges are common for Pokemon FireRed. Make sure to inspect closely for authenticity markers like the engraved ESRB rating and model number on real Nintendo cartridges. Bootleg copies are worth very little compared to authentic production run games.
Special Editions Increase Value
While standard Pokemon FireRed versions are plentiful, special edition copies are much harder to find. Examples include:
- Not for Resale editions
- FireRed with bonus disc from 2004 Nintendo Power subscriber offer
- Factory sealed copies from Toys R Us, Walmart, or other retailers
These limited release versions can fetch hundreds more than ordinary copies.
Game Saves Impact Loose Cartridge Value
For loose cartridges with no box or manual, the game save file content can matter. Collectors may pay more for:
- A completed Pokedex
- Rare or high-level Pokemon teams
- Event Pokemon like Mew or Celebi
- Naming theme like Pokemon named after characters
Saves with strong nostalgic value or rare Pokemon can add up to $50 or more to the cartridge value. On the other hand, a wiped or corrupted save file reduces loose cart value.
Graded Video Games Are Collectibles
Professional grading companies like Wata Games will assign a numeric grade and seal vintage video games in a clear plastic case. Here is an overview of how Wata grading impacts value:
| Wata Grade | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 9.8 – 10 | Gem mint | $1000+ |
| 9.0 – 9.6 | Near mint/mint | $300 – $600 |
| 8.0 – 8.5 | Very good | $150 – $250 |
| 7.0 – 7.5 | Good | $75 – $150 |
Graded FireRed cartridges over 9.0 condition can sell for $500 or more. Sealed graded boxes can sell for thousands.
Where to Buy and Sell Pokemon FireRed
Here are some tips on finding Pokemon FireRed for sale or selling your own copy:
- eBay – Large marketplace to buy and sell, you can find auctions or Buy It Now listings.
- Facebook Marketplace and Groups – Search local retro game groups and online marketplaces.
- Game shops – Retro gaming stores may buy, sell, or trade FireRed copies.
- Pawn shops – May have game valuables overlooked by staff.
- Conventions – Find fire sales and rare items at gaming conventions.
Use caution for fakes and make condition assessments when buying secondhand. For selling, start high for rare items and negotiate down to market price.
Factors That Could Impact Future Value
Some factors that may increase or decrease Pokemon FireRed values over time are:
- Nostalgia continuing to grow as original fans age
- Interest staying strong from younger generations
- Improved ways to authenticate legitimate copies
- Technology to easily replicate or counterfeit the game
- Re-releases on new platforms
- Anniversaries and special events bringing renewed interest
Like many retro games, values fluctuate but iconic titles tend to hold value and appreciate over decades.
Is FireRed Worth Playing Today?
Beyond collecting, Pokemon FireRed is still very enjoyable to play today. The graphics and gameplay hold up well, especially with the nostalgia factor. Key reasons it’s still worth a playthrough:
- Reliving the classic Gen 1 Pokemon adventures
- Enjoying the quirks and simplicity of early series gameplay
- Exploring Kanto with improved graphics and visuals
- Training up your dream team of the original 151 Pokemon
- Replay value from collecting badges, filling the Pokedex, battling, and more
For millions of Pokemon fans, FireRed delivers an incredible dose of nostalgia. And for a new generation of players, it’s the perfect way to experience the roots of the Pokemon world.
Conclusion
Pokemon FireRed continues to be one of the most treasured Pokemon games on the Game Boy Advance. With original copies ranging from $50 to over $1000 based on condition and rarity, it holds solid value for collectors. Beyond investing, it’s still a great journey through the Kanto region that withstands the test of time. For Pokemon fans old and new, Pokemon FireRed is certainly worth playing – and worth holding onto.