The console that laid the foundation for Sega's gaming empire, the Sega Master System is a timeless 8-bit wonder that has numerous hidden gems in its library. From classics such as Phantasy Star, Shinobi, and Sonic The Hedgehog, to simple but captivating games like Mah-jong, the system boasts an impressive library of games.

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The console itself holds countless memories for many gamers too, and with the rising interest in retro games and consoles, its library serves as a treasure trove of sorts. The rarest games for the Sega Master System have also seen a steep increase in price, making them highly sought-after collectibles in certain circles.

8 Ghouls 'N Ghosts ($156)

Developed by SEGA and originally released for arcade machines in 1988, Ghouls 'N Ghosts is a side-scrolling action platformer that was ported to various platforms including Sega Master System in 1990. In the game, the player controls Sir Arthur on a quest to rescue Princess Prin-Prin from the demon overlord Astaroth.

Throughout their journey, the player will face hordes of undead enemies and other supernatural abominations. The colorful visuals, simple and responsive controls, and challenging gameplay made this game a beloved title among retro gamers on the 8-bit console.

7 Asterix and the Great Rescue ($185)

Based on the popular French comic book series Asterix and developed by Core Design, Asterix and the Great Rescue was released by SEGA in 1993. In the game, the player controls the brave Gaulish warrior Asterix on his quest to rescue his dear friend Obelix, who has been captured by Roman soldiers.

Thanks to its colorful and stylish graphics, entertaining gameplay, and faithful adaptation of the source material, Asterix and the Great Rescue is a must-have for any collector who is interested in retro gaming. They may have to settle for a loose copy though, as complete and new copies typically sell for hundreds of dollars.

6 Power Strike ($212)

A classic vertical-scrolling shoot 'em-up game, Power Strike was developed by Compile and released by SEGA in 1988. The game lets the player pilot a powerful spaceship and battle their way through waves of enemies while flying over vibrant environments. There are various power-ups and weapons too, which enhance the gameplay quite a bit.

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The challenging but easy-to-master mechanics of the game make it a satisfying experience, and, when paired with the impressive visuals, the game became a beloved hit for the Sega Master System. Power Strike is a nostalgic favorite for many retro gamers and still holds its value as a collectible.

5 Dick Tracy ($250)

Released by Sega in 1991, Dick Tracy is a detective-themed action game based on the well-known comic strip and movie of the same name. In the game, the player takes on the role of the titular detective and fights against a nefarious cartel to rescue his girlfriend.

The game features side-scrolling fight sequences, in which the player must defeat various Mafiosi using a variety of weapons including Tracy's iconic Tommy gun. The game definitely offers an entertaining experience and is a great addition to any retro game collection.

4 Golden Axe Warrior ($309)

Golden Axe Warrior is an action-adventure game that drew inspiration from the popular Golden Axe series and implements certain elements from The Legend of Zelda. In the game, the player takes control of the brave warrior whose quest is to save the land of Firewood from a villain called Death Adder.

The game includes an open-world environment, unique puzzles, and fierce monster battles. Due to its popularity with collectors, this top-down, action-packed adventure game with RPG elements is one of the rarest Master System games, and also one of the most expensive.

3 Mah-Jong ($600)

A digital version of the infamous Chinese traditional tile-based game that grandmothers just can't seem to get enough of, Mah-Jong was released for the Sega Master System in 1987 by SEGA. In the game, the player must match and discard identical pairs from the Mahjong tiles before them.

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The simple and relaxing gameplay the game offers has enabled Mah-Jong to claim the souls of another generation. With its historical value and the nostalgic memories it holds for many, it's hard to not include this gem in a retro gaming collection.

2 Sonic The Hedgehog ($633)

A classic platformer released in 1991, Sonic the Hedgehog is a legend that speaks for itself. In this version of the game, the player controls Sonic, whose aim is to stop Dr. Robotnik, who has captured the animals of South Island and turned them into vile robots. Players guide Sonic through numerous zones and environments, collecting rings -surprise!- while avoiding traps and said robots.

The game itself is a classic among the gaming community, and with its fast-paced gameplay, vibrant graphics, and cult soundtrack, it is a must-have for any Master System collector. Part of the reason that the game is so rare is that Sonic the Hedgehog was actually released on the Genesis first, meaning that many gamers of the era had already moved on from the Master System by the time it came out.

1 James Buster Douglas Knockout Boxing ($1,299)

Released in 1990, James 'Buster' Douglas Knockout Boxing is based on the famous heavyweight boxing match in which Mike Tyson was defeated by James 'Buster' Douglas. Players are able to control Buster or other boxers in order to defeat all of the opponents before them to become the undisputed champion.

The game features simple controls, colorful visuals, and thrilling gameplay, and offered a rather enjoyable boxing experience for players of the console. Although it is not as widely known as other boxing games like Punch Out, this one is the most expensive Sega Master System game.

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