Back in the 1990s, before smartphones stole our attention, handheld gaming was a quiet revolution. While Nintendo dominated with the Game Boy, three underdogs carved out their own legacies: Sega’s Game Gear, SNK’s Neo Geo Pocket, and Bandai’s Wonderswan. Today, these systems aren’t just relics-they’re prized pieces in retro gaming collections. If you’re looking to start or grow a collection of these classic handhelds, here’s what actually matters.
Why These Three Systems Matter
Most people think Game Boy was the only handheld that mattered. But that’s not true. The Game Gear, Neo Geo Pocket, and Wonderswan each brought something unique to the table. They weren’t just cheaper copies of Nintendo’s machine-they were bold experiments in color, performance, and design.
The Game Gear is a 1990 handheld from Sega that ran on six AA batteries and featured a full-color 3.2-inch LCD screen. Also known as Sega Game Gear, it was designed to compete directly with the Game Boy. It had hardware nearly identical to the Sega Master System, which meant it could run more complex games with better graphics and sound.
The Neo Geo Pocket is a 1998 handheld from SNK that used a monochrome screen but delivered arcade-perfect ports of Neo Geo fighting games. It was released just as the PlayStation and Nintendo 64 were taking over, and it flew under the radar-until collectors realized how rare and well-made it was.
The Wonderswan is a 1999 handheld from Bandai that debuted in Japan with a black-and-white screen and a unique vertical orientation. It was built for Japanese gamers, had incredible battery life, and featured a library full of obscure gems you won’t find anywhere else.
What You Need to Know Before You Buy
Collecting these systems isn’t like buying a modern console. You’re dealing with 25-year-old electronics, fragile screens, and parts that wear out. Here’s what to look for.
- Screen condition - The Game Gear’s screen is prone to backlight failure. If it’s dim or flickers, the backlight bulb or inverter is dead. Replacing it isn’t hard, but it’s a job.
- Power issues - All three systems used battery packs. Original ones are long gone. Look for systems with working AC adapters or modded battery compartments that accept modern rechargeables.
- Cartridge connectors - Dust, corrosion, and bent pins are common. A game that doesn’t load? Clean the connector with isopropyl alcohol and a soft brush. Don’t just plug and play.
- Case wear - The Neo Geo Pocket’s plastic shell cracks easily. Check the hinges and the edges. A mint-condition unit with original box sells for 3x more than one with scratches.
- Regional variants - The Game Gear had different power adapters for North America, Europe, and Japan. Make sure you have the right one. The Wonderswan Color only worked in Japan until later models.
Game Libraries: What’s Worth Hunting
These systems didn’t have hundreds of games-but they had a few that still command high prices.
For the Game Gear, the holy grail is Sonic Chaos, Altered Beast, and Golden Axe Warrior. But the real standout is GG Shinobi. A sealed copy sells for $200+. The Sega Sports series, especially Sega Soccer Slam, is rare and highly sought after.
The Neo Geo Pocket had a tiny library-only 35 games total. But they’re all arcade-perfect. Samurai Showdown, King of Fighters ’98, and Metal Slug are the big three. A sealed King of Fighters ’98 can go for $300+. The Neo Geo Pocket Color version of Magical Drop is a cult favorite.
The Wonderswan had over 100 games, but most were Japan-only. Blue Dragon, Dragon Quest Monsters, and Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon are the most valuable. The Wonderswan Color version of Yokai Dochuki is a rare gem. A complete set of 10 original cartridges can cost $500+.
Condition Matters More Than You Think
There’s no universal grading system for retro handhelds, but collectors use a rough scale:
- Mint (M) - Original box, all manuals, no scratches, screen flawless, works perfectly. Rare.
- Excellent (E) - Minor wear, no cracks, works fine. Screen is bright. Most collectors aim for this.
- Good (G) - Visible scratches, cracked casing, dim screen, but still playable. Good for budget buyers.
- Fair (F) - Broken parts, non-functional, needs repair. Only for tinkerers.
A Game Gear in Excellent condition with original box and manual? $80-$120. Same unit in Fair? $20. That’s the difference between collecting and just buying junk.
Where to Find These Systems
You won’t find these at Best Buy. Here’s where collectors actually shop:
- eBay - The biggest marketplace. Watch for fake listings. Look for sellers with 98%+ feedback and clear photos of the console and cartridges.
- Reddit (r/retrogaming, r/GameGear) - People sell directly here. You can find deals if you’re patient.
- Japanese auction sites - Yahoo! Japan Auctions and Mercari Japan have the best Wonderswan selections. Use a proxy service.
- Local retro shops - Portland has a few. Ask if they’ve had any Game Gear or Neo Geo Pocket stock come in.
Pro tip: Don’t buy a system without testing it. Ask the seller to turn it on and show a game running. If they say “it works,” ask for a video. If they refuse, walk away.
Costs and Value Trends
Here’s what you’re looking at in early 2026:
| System | Console (E Condition) | Sealed Game (Rarest Title) | Complete Set (Console + 5 Games + Box) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sega Game Gear | $90-$130 | $200-$250 | $400-$600 |
| Neo Geo Pocket | $110-$160 | $300-$350 | $500-$700 |
| Bandai Wonderswan | $70-$100 | $180-$220 | $350-$500 |
Prices have climbed 40% since 2020. Demand is up because younger collectors are discovering these systems. The Neo Geo Pocket is the fastest appreciating-its arcade roots make it a favorite among fighting game fans.
What to Avoid
Counterfeits are rare but real. The biggest red flags:
- Game Gear cartridges with mismatched labels or poor print quality
- Neo Geo Pocket systems with non-original colors (pink, green, or blue shells were never official)
- Wonderswan games with English titles on Japanese cartridges
Also avoid “restored” units with replacement parts unless you know the seller. A Game Gear with a modern LED backlight might look nice, but it’s not original-and collectors care about authenticity.
Why Collect Them Today
These aren’t just nostalgic toys. They’re pieces of gaming history that pushed boundaries. The Game Gear was the first color handheld. The Neo Geo Pocket brought arcade quality to your palm. The Wonderswan proved that a simple design could last for 100+ hours on two batteries.
Collecting them now means you’re preserving something that almost disappeared. Thousands of these systems were thrown away. The ones still around are the ones people cared enough to save.
And here’s the truth: You don’t need to spend $1,000 to start. A Game Gear for $60, a couple of games for $20 each, and a clean case? You’ve got a real collection. It’s not about how much you spend. It’s about what you love.