The PlayStation 3 was never the most popular console of its generation, particularly in North America, but it produced some valuable gaming gems. In fact, many titles in the PS3’s extensive back catalogue have gone on to become highly sought-after collector’s items, and if you’ve got one of the titles on this list, it might finally be time to get on the phone to an auction house... or maybe just go online. It is the 21st century, after all. Could you be sitting on a virtual goldmine? Or – even better – The Last of Us Post-Pandemic special edition worth $1500? Here are the rarest and most valuable games on PS3.
Read more: The 25 best PS4 games to play right now
Uncharted 2: Fortune Hunter Collector’s Edition
Used: $5,000
For a series all about fortune hunting, the story of Uncharted 2’s Collector’s Edition feels quite appropriate for its fanbase. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is a masterpiece, and we would have loved to have gotten our hands on the Fortune Hunter Edition back when it came out in 2009, but it was nearly impossible to find even then, and the price has only gone up since.
This collection is a dream for Uncharted fans, with a replica dagger, strategy guide, art book, and autographed game case, all in some beautifully on-brand packaging. The bad news is that only 200 copies were made, so it’s going to cost you several thousand dollars to be one of the elite few who can claim ownership.
Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag – Black Chest Edition
New: $938
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is a franchise highlight, lack of actual stealth and assassination aside, but does that justify the money required to own the Black Chest Edition? If your sailor’s pockets run deep, this limited edition - complete with a Captain Edward Kenway statue, a pirate map, and the Jackdaw’s black flag (among other things) - can be yours for the low, low price of around $938.
Since Black Flag came out in the waning days of the PS3, more focus was given to the next-gen versions, which ironically made these less attainable editions even more valuable. Get one before they’re gone forever.
The Last of Us Post-Pandemic Edition
New: $1,500
Naughty Dog once again showed off its first-class talent with 2013’s The Last of Us, but the game’s quality extends well beyond the software itself. The rare Post-Pandemic Edition of The Last of Us was a thing of beauty, boasting a 12-inch statue and authentic comic, as well as all DLC and multiplayer content.
Getting your hands on this one will be a real punch to the wallet nowadays, though, as there aren’t too many going around. On the other hand, if you managed to pick up this super-limited version of The Last of Us, you could be in for a quick payday.
Demon’s Souls Deluxe Edition
New: $219
Used: $119
Before Bloodborne, there was Dark Souls, but before even that, it all began with Demon’s Souls. Those who had faith in From Software’s abilities were smart enough to pick up a Deluxe Edition of the 2009 PS3 exclusive at launch, but these days the rest of us must turn to the collector’s market.
This one isn’t too expensive compared to other games on this list, and the included strategy guide would surely be a major help considering the franchise is known for its crushing difficulty. Demon’s Souls wound up being so popular that plans to shut down the servers were scrapped, so it’s not too late to dive into the game that went on to inspire an entire genre of action-RPGs.
Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD ReMix Collector’s Edition
New: $249
Used: $95.95
Placing convoluted lore and obscurely named sequels to one side for a moment, Kingdom Hearts is one of the most beloved RPG series in Square Enix’s inventory. This collection includes Kingdom Hearts II: Final Mix, Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep Final Mix, and Kingdom Hearts Re:Coded.
On top of that, the adorable Shadow Heartless plush toy, a collectable pin, and a gorgeous art book round out the limited edition set. With Kingdom Hearts III on the horizon (next year, if you can believe it), this is a great time to enjoy the series’ most important titles as they were originally intended, while scoring some cool merchandise at the same time.
FFXIII Lightning Returns Collector’s Edition
New: $159.95
Used: $90
How much of a die-hard Final Fantasy fan are you? Enough that you’ll pay more to get a digital Aerith costume for FFXIII Lightning Returns? Ok, that’s not the only thing that comes with this collector’s edition - there’s also a hardcover art book, a pocket watch and some, uh, “commemorative packaging.”
Still, these prices aren’t bad, and what better way to celebrate the (slowly) upcoming release of Final Fantasy VII’s remake than by acquiring this rare digital callback to one of its central characters?
Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Wizard’s Edition
New: $479.96
Good luck getting your hands on this one. The ultra-rare Wizard’s Edition of Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch isn’t easy to come by, and when you do find it, expect to shell out a few hundred dollars for the purchase.
Even if you’re a sucker for hardcover art books, golden coins, and Drippy plush dolls, that price isn’t to be sniffed it, but it could well be worth it for the more hardcore collectors among us. If you’re really smart about it, you might consider investing in the inevitable collector’s edition that's bound to be released for Ni No Kuni II. Who’s to say it won’t also be worth a fortune in 2025?
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood Limited Codex Edition
New: $525.97
Not only is this limited edition almost as rare as a piece of Eden itself, it was only released in a limited selection of regions, making it one of the most elusive PS3 games of all time.
That’s quite apt, come to think of it, considering Ezio’s knack for subterfuge. Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood Limited Codex Edition (which is an absolute mouthful of a title) is loaded with goodies both physical and digital, including a beautifully designed chest and a map of Ubisoft’s Ancient Rome. I reckon it would look great hung up behind that $900 statue of Edward Kenway...
BioShock Infinite Ultimate Songbird Edition
New: $169.99
This ultra edition of BioShock Infinite isn’t too pricey all in all, making a tempting offer for any fans of the acclaimed series. The included Songbird statue, on its own, is a gorgeous addition for any shelf, and the additional goodies included are just extra dollops of icing on the cake.
Sadly, the included Murder of Crows vigor replica doesn’t actually give you the ability to command armies of birds from your fingertips. Superpowers or no superpowers, all that’s left for you to decide is whether $169 represents a fair price to pay for a Songbird protecting your home 24/7.
The Beatles Rock Band (Full Game Bundle)
New: $399
Used: $159.99
If you’ve got a full set of The Beatles: Rock Band and all its themed instruments in good condition hanging around your house, now’s a perfect time to sell. Even used, this 2009 limited edition set goes for $160 and upwards, and with good reason.
The instruments are designed with the game’s iconic band in mind, which is what gives it that collector’s item flair above your typical Rock Band peripherals. We’re not talking original copy of “Can’t Buy Me Love” levels of rare, of course, but the chance to own this collection doesn’t come easy.
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