Top Franchises — Collector Favorites • Best-Selling Series • Must-Have Classics
Top Franchises Overview
If you’re searching for the best video game franchises of all time, this hub is your shortcut.
Each link below takes you into a dedicated franchise collection where you can browse the series in one place,
discover standouts you missed, and spot the entries that collectors chase most.
Whether you grew up on cartridge-era classics, disc-based blockbusters, or modern releases, franchise collecting is one of the
most satisfying ways to build a game shelf with real personality.
Want to browse by platform while you hunt your favorites? You can also explore franchise titles within the
Nintendo Entertainment System games,
Sega Genesis games, and
Nintendo Switch games
libraries—then jump back here anytime to keep your collection organized by series.
Collections update as inventory comes in, so check back often for newly added titles across the biggest series—curated with collector-friendly detail by Retro Game Fan.
Why Collect by Franchise?
Easy “Best of” Browsing
- See a series at a glance instead of chasing titles one by one
- Quickly compare entries, spin-offs, compilations, and remasters
- Great for “What should I play next?” decision making
Collector Value in One Place
- Spot the high-demand entries that define a franchise’s legacy
- Watch for variants, reprints, and special editions as your collection grows
- Build display-worthy shelves with series continuity and theme
Nostalgia, Upgraded
- Revisit the games you owned and finally grab the ones you missed
- Discover “hidden gem” sequels that never got their due
- Collect full story arcs, character evolutions, and gameplay eras
Great for Gifts
- Franchise pages make it easy to shop for fans of specific series
- Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and nostalgia-fueled surprises
- Helps gift buyers find a “safe win” without guessing
Collector Insights
Complete sets vs. “best-of” shelves: Some collectors chase full franchise runs, while others build a curated lineup of the
most iconic entries and fan-favorite spin-offs. Either approach works—what matters is collecting with intent, so your shelf tells a story.
Variants and special releases: Many franchises have collector wrinkles like greatest-hits versions, reprints, remasters,
compilation cartridges/discs, and occasional limited physical runs. When you collect by series, these differences are easier to notice,
and your collection ends up more consistent and display-ready.
Condition matters more in flagship series: For the biggest franchises, demand stays strong year-round, which means clean copies
tend to move quickly. If you’re building a showcase collection, prioritize sharp labels, clean cases, and overall presentation that matches the
caliber of the franchise.
Franchise FAQs
What is the best way to collect a video game franchise?
Start with the most iconic entry, then expand into direct sequels and fan-favorite spin-offs.
If you want a display-focused shelf, aim for a “best-of” lineup first—then fill in the deeper cuts later.
Why do some franchise games become more collectible than others?
Collector demand is often driven by a mix of popularity, smaller print runs, late-life releases, and series-defining moments.
Certain entries become the “must-own” titles that fans always want back on the shelf.
Do franchise pages include multiple platforms?
Yes—franchise collections can span multiple systems. If you prefer platform browsing, check out the
NES games,
Genesis games, and
Switch games
libraries and then pivot back to franchise pages to compare series entries across generations.
Do you use stock photos on franchise listings?
It depends—For used games, our listings always feature real photos so you can see the exact item you’re buying.
New items may use stock images when applicable, and we clearly disclose that in the listing.
We also follow
strict condition grading
to keep expectations clear and collector-friendly.
Quick tip: To open a franchise page, select from the tiles below.
If you’re building a display shelf for a specific franchise or series, start with the first or most iconic entry, and work outward to include sequels and spin-offs.
