Rare SegaSonic Arcade Machine Hits the Auction Block: A Treasure Trove for Collectors and Sega Fans
Opening
For the Sega aficionado with a love of arcade history and a bank account to match, the chance of a lifetime has arrived. A one-of-a-kind SegaSonic the Hedgehog arcade machine, a relic from the golden age of arcade gaming and a symbol of Sega's rich history, is about to go under the hammer. And it's not just any old game cabinet. This is a historic piece of gaming memorabilia that could fetch a staggering sum of over $50,000 at auction.
What the Machine Is
Known as the SegaSonic the Hedgehog Multi Cabinet Swing, this arcade machine is an artifact from Sega World, a gaming haven nestled in London's Trocadero during the 1990s. The Cabinet Swing isn't simply a rare find; it's a piece of Sega's lineage, a tangible connection to the company's arcade roots. It's a game cabinet that, in its time, would have been a centerpiece in any arcade, a beacon for Sonic fans and a testament to Sega's innovative spirit.
What's New
The machine is now set to go up for auction at the UK auction house, Ewbank's. But what sets it apart? According to Ewbank's, this particular machine is the only officially translated version of the 1993 coin-op. After Sega World closed its doors in 1999, the machine changed hands among private collectors, even spending some time on display in the boardroom of Sega's European HQ. It was also featured at a promotional event for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, a joint venture between McLaren and Sega.
Why It Matters
For collectors, this auction represents a chance to own a unique piece of arcade history. The machine's provenance, operational status, and the rarity of its game version make it a treasure. Beyond its value as a collector's item, this SegaSonic arcade machine also represents a piece of gaming history, a nod to the era when Sonic was king, and arcades were the playground of choice for gamers.
What's Next
The auction is set to go live on December 19th at 11 AM, UK time. The guide price for the machine is expected to fall between £20,000 and £40,000. For the lucky bidder who walks away with this SegaSonic machine, it will be more than just an acquisition; it will be a piece of Sega's rich history and a nod to the golden age of arcade gaming.