Even in normal times, I appreciate physical editions. I much prefer being able to look at the case of a game or touch a book cover. That impulse has only intensified since this pandemic started. The key change is that it’s been much harder to shop in stores like I’m accustomed to. Which makes online storefronts like Super Rare Games so helpful. Not only do they offer physical versions of games, they do cool limited edition prints of really great and unique Switch products. Case in point – I’ve been interested in Graceful Explosion Machine since it released back in 2017. I kept almost buying it, but holding back since it was merely digital. But now, thanks to the good folks at Super Rare Games, I own a physical copy of the game, and I couldn’t be more pleased.
Before I go too much farther, let me talk a bit about the service that Super Rare Games offers. They make a new print of a Switch game every 3 to 4 weeks. Each is pretty rare (hence the name), limited to around 4000 copies or so. They also sell out pretty darn quick, sometimes within 24 hours. There are both standard and fancier editions, but the basic stuff goes for around $30, whereas cool items like steelbooks range closer to $45. Multi-game lots are also offered for much more, along with collector’s editions. But the one feature each physical print from Super Rare Games comes with are great trading cards. Generally there’s a handful per game, and you’ll get 3 randomly in a card pack. Besides that, each game comes with a physical manual (a must for all old school fans). Oh and if you like stickers, they come packaged as well! While it’s true Super Rare Games only makes Switch games, as opposed to places like Limited Run Games, I appreciate that. After all, I’m pretty much a ride or die Switch fan at this point, so getting more physical games for such a expansive and fun system is a great thing.
I talked with a representative for Super Rare Games about who they are, and below is a pretty informative quote:
We’re collectors ourselves and extremely passionate about preservation, so we try to produce a decent variety of games. Some of our previous titles include Human: Fall Flat, Snake Pass, World of Goo, SteamWorld Quest, The Sexy Brutale, Worms W.M.D, and Evoland, so there’s a great variety there. Many of our customers like to collect the full set, but for those that just want physical copies of games they like, chances are if you’re not interested in a release one month, you might be the next.
Now one thing to keep in mind is that Super Rare Games is based in the UK, so it might take a bit longer for your game to arrive. However, as someone who once ordered one item from Play-Asia, only to wait several months, I don’t mind a wait time of a few weeks. And despite the UK connection, the shipping and handling is pretty reasonable, usually less than $10 for the US. Though Super Rare Games is pretty new, they already have a great selection of games. I personally am quite interested in picking up SteamWorld Collection next week, which features SteamWorld Dig 1 and 2, plus Heist, all for less than $70.
Regarding the packaging for the game I received, it came nicely sandwiched in a sturdy container, and everything was in mint condition. I also appreciate their policy about returns within 14 days. Best of all, my copy of Graceful Explosion Machine worked marvelously, and the instruction manual, sticker and cards included all looked snazzy.
Thus far, I have nothing but nice things to say about Super Rare Games. While it’s true their site has experienced some minor technical issues in recent weeks, that’s easily remedied with more experience. If you’re looking for cool, limited physical editions for Switch games, you should definitely put them on your radar.
