Tetris is among the most popular retro video games in our list, based on Google search data. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

From Super Mario Bros to Tetris, video games often trigger memories of our childhood and the “good old days.” Nostalgia has a powerful pull in the world of gaming, bringing both emotional and financial success to classic titles. But which games do Brits feel the most nostalgic about? 

we analyzed Google search volume data in the UK

To find out, we analyzed Google search volume data in the UK, focusing on queries like ‘where to play [game]’ and ‘where to buy [game].’ This allowed us to identify the retro video games – whether for home consoles, online platforms, or arcades – that hold the highest nostalgic value among Brits today.

On top of this, we investigated the average resale price of each retro game and the number of listings on eBay to determine their current market worth, revealing which classics are the most valuable in the gaming world right now.

Tetris is Britain’s most nostalgic video game 

Topping the list is Tetris, a timeless puzzle game that debuted in 1985 on the Nintendo Gameboy. Despite its age of nearly 40 years, Tetris continues to maintain an impressive monthly search volume of 174,930 in the last 12 months. It captivates players in the UK with its straightforward yet repetitive gameplay, where players arrange falling blocks to complete lines.

Following closely is Mortal Kombat, which boasts a monthly search volume of 61,400. This game sparked both acclaim and controversy upon its 1992 debut across various game consoles, igniting debates on video game violence that still resonate in gaming culture today.

Another standout title that resonates with Brits is Tomb Raider, boasting a monthly search volume of 40,610 in the UK. The game first launched in 1996 across platforms such as the Sega Saturn, PlayStation, and PC. Tomb Raider introduced players to the daring archaeologist Lara Croft, who set a new standard for 3D action-adventure games. Its seamless blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and cinematic storytelling has left an impactful mark on gaming history.

The 10 most profitable nostalgic video games

Now that we’ve identified the most nostalgic video games in the UK, we evaluated each based on their frequency of resale and profitability by scraping eBay listings.

1. Super Mario Bros is the most profitable nostalgic video game, with an average resale value of over £10,000

Super Mario Bros, the iconic platformer that introduced the world to Mario and Luigi, continues to dominate the retro gaming market with 810 listings on eBay and an impressive average item value of £10,156 ($13,178). Released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), this game revolutionised the platforming genre and became a cultural phenomenon. 

some limited edition items fetching as much as $2m in auctions

Its enduring popularity is evident not just in its high listing numbers but also in its significant resale value, the highest of all games studied. Collectors eagerly seek out rare editions and mint condition copies, with some limited edition items fetching as much as $2m in auctions. The game’s success paved the way for countless sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across various gaming platforms, cementing its place in gaming history as one of the most beloved franchises of all time.

2. Tomb Raider is the most commonly resold video game 

Tomb Raider takes second place with the highest number of eBay listings among all the games studied, boasting an impressive 2,122 listings. With an average item value of £119 ($154), Tomb Raider has captivated gamers since its 1996 debut. Its widespread availability on eBay underscores its enduring appeal and market value, attracting both avid collectors and new enthusiasts eager to explore Lara Croft’s adventures. Tomb Raider’s success has spawned numerous sequels, reboots, and adaptations in film and other media, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of gaming nostalgia.

3. DOOM is the third most popular video game to resell online

DOOM completes the top three with 1,154 listings and an average item value of £88 ($114). Released in 1993 by id Software, DOOM revolutionised the first-person shooter genre with its fast-paced action, immersive atmosphere, and innovative level design. Players assumed the role of a space marine battling demonic forces on Mars, and the game’s adrenaline-pumping gameplay captivated audiences worldwide.

 historical significance and intense gameplay experience

DOOM not only popularised multiplayer gaming but also became synonymous with gaming innovation and technological advancement during the early 1990s. Its continued presence on eBay reflects its enduring popularity among retro gaming aficionados who appreciate its historical significance and intense gameplay experience.

Methodology 

To uncover the video games that evoke the most nostalgia among Brits, we analysed Google search volumes in the UK over the last 12 months for more than 50 nostalgic video games across home consoles, online platforms, and arcades. Our analysis combined the total number of searches for various terms including “[game],” “where to buy [game],” and “where to play [game].”

To reveal the most popular and profitable games for resale, we analysed nearly 20,000 eBay listings to determine which video games are most frequently sold and their average sale price. These metrics were then used to create an index that ranked the top 10 games.