Why is Rhythm Heaven Fever Still So Expensive in 2023?

Since the Wii’s official release in 2006, Nintendo has managed to sell over 100 million units worldwide.

It’s, therefore, not surprising that there are still many Wii die-hards in 2023.

That said, some Wii games have gained a reputation for costing more than similar games on other platforms.

So, why is Rhythm Heaven Fever still so expensive in 2023?

The current high prices of the Rhythm Heaven Fever games are primarily due to scarcity and the new hype around retro Nintendo games. The game is generating a lot of buzz on Twitch, with many streamers reminding their fans how fun it was.

What is Rhythm Heaven Fever?

Rhythm Heaven Fever, also known as Minna No Rhythm Tengoku in Japan, is a music video game developed by Nintendo for the Wii.

It is the third entry of the Rhythm Heaven series and was released on February 13, 2012.

The game consists of over 50 quirky and memorable music-based mini-games split into 10 sets with iconic soundtracks that take you on a nostalgic trip.

These mini-games range from playing badminton midair to hitting a golf ball with a club, and the fan-favorite, stabbing peas with a fork. Your objective is to hit the A and B buttons rhythmically for a perfect score.

Each mini-game appears on a different background and poses a different challenge from the previous one. As a result, the game stays fun throughout the gameplay and becomes increasingly difficult as you level up.

How much is Rhythm Heaven Fever?

Rhythm Heaven Fever retails for anywhere between $90 and $160 on Amazon, which is not cheap for a rhythm game.

Even then, it’s rarely ever in stock. So, if you want a physical copy, you have to battle it out with other bidders on eBay, where it costs up to $200!

What Makes Rhythm Heaven So Expensive?

Of course, $200 for a pre-owned game is outrageous, but more so if it’s a simple rhythm game from 2012. To put it into perspective, a new copy of Cyberpunk 2077 costs around $60. So, why the high prices?

1. Streaming

If you type ” Rhythm Heaven Fever” in your favorite streaming platform’s search box, you’ll start to get why the game is so expensive.

The game has been generating a lot of attention online, and every streamer wants a piece of the action.

Most of these streamers praise the game for its simplistic mini-games that are surprisingly hard to beat. Naturally, viewers take this enthusiasm as a recommendation and rush to buy it.

2. Scarcity

With the sudden high demand created by streamers, the available physical copies of Rhythm Heaven Fever are not enough to go around. In fact, it’s seldom in stock on Amazon.

As a result, those who have the game are incentivized to sell it to the highest bidder. Of course, it also doesn’t help that the game was only available for a couple of years.

3. Small Community

Rhythm Heaven Fever was only available for the Nintendo Wii. Unfortunately, while the Nintendo Wii community is close-knit, it’s not as big as the PlayStation or PC ones.

This means that for a developer to make reasonable profits, they have to increase the margins and charge more for each copy.

4. Love for Retro

Most Nintendo gamers love retro games. Unlike modern gamers, retro gamers like to have an original, physical copy of the game to display in their collection.

These collections come with an emotional attachment that makes them harder to sell.

5. It’s a Good Game

All other reasons aside, Rhythm Heaven Fever is just a good game. Although the main story takes about 8h 10 m on average, the levels are so fun that you can keep replaying for weeks.

Each level is more challenging but not hard enough to discourage you. Trying to achieve a perfect score will keep you up all night as you tap the keys rhythmically.

What Is the Most Expensive Wii Game?

The most expensive Wii game in 2023 is American Mensa Academy, a brain teaser that’s so expensive it makes Rhythm Heaven Fever seem reasonably priced. There have been reports of used copies going for more than $350.

Additionally, American Mensa Academy is so rare that even if you were willing to pay the exorbitant prices, you might still not get a copy.

Will There Be More Rhythm Heaven Games?

The Rhythm Heaven games series has a cultic following. So, it’s no surprise to see it do so well years after its release.

Unfortunately, there’s no official confirmation of another entry into the series.

However, given that the fans have been begging Nintendo to bring it to the Switch, we might actually see a new Rhythm Heaven game one day.

It’s actually possible that a new Rhythm Heaven game could be in development, but without any official information from Nintendo, it’s difficult to say for certain.

It’s worth noting that Rhythm Heaven is a beloved franchise with a dedicated fan base, and Nintendo has released new games in the series in the past, so it’s not impossible that we may see a new entry in the future.

Can You Buy Rhythm Heaven Fever Online?

Yes. You can buy the digital version of Rhythm Heaven Fever, released for the Wii U in 2016 online. That version is affordable at $19.99. However, the 2012 version for the Wii is only available as physical copies.

Is Rhythm Heaven Worth the Cash in 2023?

It depends on how much you’re willing to spend. Rhythm Heaven Fever is undeniably fun to play. The levels are so creative and engaging that you’ll have a hard time trying to stop playing.

That said, some of the prices people are asking for are just unjustifiable. If you can find a decent copy for less than $100, you should definitely buy it. But more than $150 is too much, even for a good game.

Read Also: Why is the PS5 So Expensive? (Is it Worth the $1000 Price Tag?)

Where to Buy Original Rhythm Heaven Fever Games

If you’re looking for an original copy of Rhythm Heaven Fever, check out the Nintendo store on Amazon first. You can also try your luck at BestBuy or at your local GameSpot.

However, if you can’t find it in those places, you can always try eBay. It’s important to note that prices on eBay will vary greatly, and higher prices won’t necessarily mean the game is in better condition.

So, take your time, look at the pictures, contact the owners, and try to get the best deal possible.