This page gives you an overview of the different rarity numbers in our database. The Rarity is additionally explained in detail by an extended description of each rarity number.
Every rating is based on our own experience as Atari 2600 collectors over a period of over two decades and is not set in stone. Rather, it is a constant snapshot of the current situation on the collector's market.
That is why we revise the rarities at irregular intervals in order to adapt them to the respective market conditions (supply and demand).
Rarity |
Title |
Description |
|
very common |
These are the most common games. Everyone has these in their collection. Some were often included as part of the console package as an add-on. |
|
common |
Almost identical to "very common." Anyone can find and collect these titles without much effort. They are easily found in almost every pile. |
|
very usual |
"Very usual" carts are not found in every pile. You won't come across these titles on your first try, but you won't face significant challenges collecting them either. |
|
usual |
Now it becomes a bit more difficult to find these titles. You’ll need to put in some effort and may have to explore alternative procurement channels beyond just flea markets. |
|
less rare |
These titles are not found everywhere. You’ll need to make a bit more effort to locate them. However, you don’t need to rush—waiting for a better offer is often worth it. |
|
rare |
Now you’re entering the more interesting realm of collecting. Success will usually come only after several attempts. It’s often advisable to connect with other collectors rather than relying solely on sales platforms. |
|
more rare |
Finding these will take significant time and persistence, but patience pays off. Don’t give up—the opportunity will arise eventually. These titles also make excellent trading items for deals with other collectors. |
|
very rare |
From this point onward, collecting becomes expensive. These titles are rarely available for purchase. Consider yourself lucky if you manage to find one as part of a larger package. |
|
extremely rare |
Welcome to the premier class of collecting! Even seasoned collectors feel like kids on Christmas morning when they acquire such rare pieces. These titles are typically exchanged privately between collectors rather than sold openly. |
|
incredible rare |
These games are almost impossible to find. Even die-hard collectors often wait in vain for an opportunity to acquire them. Owning one of these crowns a collection, making the owner the envy of others due to its uniqueness and beauty. |
|
Undetermined |
These games have not yet been rated for rarity. However, this does not mean they are worthless—they can range from very common to incredibly rare. A good starting point is to examine other titles from the same manufacturer for a rough idea of their rarity. |
|
Homebrew |
We do not include homebrew games in our database, as they fall outside our scope of interest. However, there are other websites where you can find information about them. |
|
Reproduction |
Reproductions are newly made releases of old games, often unpublished prototypes that never made it to market at the time. They may also include re-releases of official titles. |