I've mentioned in another thread that I'm strongly considering picking up a 4-slot MVS cabinet for an arcade setup in a warehouse at work.
We're thinking about requiring quarters for play, but having the proceeds go to charity.
Anyway, I'm hoping to build a bit of a library of MVS carts over the years (maybe to feed a second cabinet later) but cart prices of popular games do add up quickly.
I don't necessarily want to just stock up on a bunch of the cheapest titles, since theoretically only 4 (maybe 8 someday) titles will be active at a time and you want some good variety and quality.
I want to have some hardcore enthusiast interest for myself and a couple others on staff, but also have some titles that may appeal to a more casual crowd as well.
So here's a few questions:
1) What's the 4 NG titles you would choose without spending too much (I don't want to set a hard dollar limit, but keep cost in mind)
2) What's 4 others you would have to rotate in occasionally or have in a second cabinet
3) What are some cheap titles that are totally worth accumulating for variety?
4) Which expensive ones are totally worth splurging on for the game as opposed to collectable value?
I'm using this link for price guide to save me time -- not sure how accurate still
http://www.neogeokult.com/mvs-price-guide/
With that being said, here's some of my early notes:
1) My initial 4:
- King of Monsters ($75) - fun brawler with casual appeal. I have fond memories. Dirt cheap
- Samurai Shodown 2 ($60) - classic fighter that isn't typical. Best in series??? Dirt cheap
- Bust A Move ($100) - one my favorite puzzle games. Pretty good value
- Metal Slug ($200) - inching toward pricy, but essential Neo Geo game
2) Next 4
- Fatal Fury: Mark of the Wolves ($500) - expensive, but I LOVE this game and I'd love to play on a cab in "public" instead of just the Dreamcast at home.
- Pulstar ($500) - another expensive, but would love to have a great SHMUP without investing in another dedicated non-Neo Geo cab. Worth it? (not played much)
- King of Fighters '98 ($80) - gotta have a KOF somewhere and IIRC, this is regarded as one of the best installments.
- SVC Chaos ($100) - not in love with the game, but I thought it might be a fun value at $100.
3)
Sengoku ($70)
Art of Fighting 3 ($70)
Windjammers ($100)
Top Hunter: Roddy & Cathy ($120)
4)
The Last Blade $170
Shock Troopers $200
Wake Waku 7 $200
Magic Drop 3 $200
Twinkle Star Sprites $600 -- probably too expensive, but it's a cool game to wish for
Neo Bomberman $200
Strikers 1945 $230
Aero Fighters 2 $150 -- not especially expensive -- worth it?