Now, let’s talk about the big boy. The Wonderswan that does it all. The Wonderswan Crystal can play both black and white and color games on the same system. If you’re really committed to playing the Wonderswan and don’t want to deal with multiple systems, this is the one to get. For the Wonderswan Crystal, you will have to drop a slightly larger chunk of change. The minimum price a Crystal goes for is about $75. For some of the complete in box systems, you can expect to pay about $150. Between $75 to $150 is the sweet spot you’re looking for. Unless it’s some special collectors edition you should try to stay within that price range and if you do you can be confident that you’re not being ripped off.
One last bit of info I can offer on getting a system, and the upcoming games, is you can get a slightly better deal if you’re not buying from sellers in the USA. A lot of Japanese companies and people are more than happy to send you a package from Japan, but some are not, so just be careful and read their terms and conditions closely. Another option you can use is a Japanese forwarding service. These services have Japanese addresses which you get your goods delivered to, and then they will ship them to your foreign address for a small fee. When using these services it is best to buy in bulk. Making use of forwarding services can save you a ton of dough in the long run, so just keep that in mind!
Now, the moment you’ve all be waiting for, the games! Games for the Wonderswan are quite easy to get a hold of. Many games are under $20 and rare titles can go for around $50 to $75. The price is definitely right for anybody starting their import gaming collection. A lot of games are Japanese text only but here is a list of great games for the Wonderswan that is easily playable without knowing the language:
Buffers Evolution:
Buffers Evolution is a black and white action platformer. You’re tasked with fighting enemies, running left to right, and collecting checkpoints as fast as possible. Just jump, attack, and use your special abilities to get to the end of the stage. Great graphics and music treat you to fun and addictive gameplay. Give it a try!
BeatMania:
Everyone knows about this rhythm game! This is also a black and white title in which you play with the Wonderswan vertically. Pick your tunes and match your button presses to the beat. Hours later you’ll snap out of your gaming daze and wonder how it got so late in the day.
Kaze no Klonoa Moonlight Museum:
This black and white version of Klonoa is smooth and fun. The puzzle platformer will have you jumping through stages and using the screen both horizontally and vertically. If you’re a fan of Klonoa check this one out since this is a perfect addition to your Wonderswan! This title may be a little more pricey due to popularity but still not too bad, as it can usually be found under $50.
Magical Drop:
This is a very fun and addictive port of Magical Drop in black and white! The Wonderswan has tons of puzzle games and this one is a perfect addition to your library. Play vertically with your favorite Magical Drop character and have a blast.
Rhyme Rider Kerorican:
A rhythm game in beautiful color that is sure to give you hours of gameplay. Run, jump, dodge, and attack to your way to the end of a stage. Menus and instruction are in Japanese, but the game is easy to figure out on your own without hindering the experience. Try this one out for sure! It is a wacky good time.
One of the most notable markets for the Wonderswan is a slew of Digimon games for the system. Many of them are playable with little to no Japanese in their games. We’ve got fighters, simulation games, and strategy RPGs available with Digimon flair. I’ve always loved Digimon more than Pokemon and these games do the series justice!
Lastly, Wonderswan has a lot of ton of puzzle games like Tetris, Mr. Driller, Puyo Puyo, and Gunpey. They are all wonderful ports and great games to have on the go. Everyone pretty much already knows how to play these so pick out your favorites and never look back. Most of these are very cheaply priced as they are usually under $15. So have at it!
These games should get your Wonderswan collection growing quickly. You’ll have hours of enjoyment contained within the titles listed above so I highly recommend you start there. There are tons more titles to play, and many you’re able to play without Japanese knowledge. I chose not to list some titles because they may cost you a little more than you’d feel comfortable paying when starting out or they are just hard to find in general.
So with all this knowledge about the glorious Wonderswan you should be set. I hope this article was helpful, and going forward I’d love to do more import gaming articles for you. If you’ve never collected imports before I’m sure the Wonderswan will get you ready to look at other consoles and games that you may not have noticed, and you’ll be ready to start this amazing hobby with great confidence!
