Why It's Rare #4 The Rarity of "Tombi" on PS1

In the vast landscape of PlayStation 1 games, one title stands out as a rare gem that has garnered a cult following over the years: "Tombi" (known as "Tomba!" in North America). Developed by Whoopee Camp and released in 1997, this unique platforming adventure game captivated players with its vibrant visuals, engaging gameplay, and whimsical storyline. However, what truly sets "Tombi" apart is its rarity. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the scarcity of "Tombi" on the PS1, examine its worldwide and local sales, and discuss the possibility of a re-release for this beloved classic.

Developers and Gameplay:

Whoopee Camp, a now-defunct Japanese game development studio, created "Tombi" under the guidance of Tokuro Fujiwara, the renowned creator of the Mega Man series. The game follows the adventures of Tombi, a wild-haired boy on a mission to rescue his grandfather and recover his stolen bracelet from evil pigs. With its distinctive art style, lively characters, and unique mechanics like the ability to swing on branches, "Tombi" won over players with its charming and imaginative world.

Worldwide Sales and Rarity:

While "Tombi" enjoyed critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, it didn't achieve commercial success on the same level as other PS1 classics. The game was released in limited quantities in various regions, making it challenging to find a copy today. The scarcity of "Tombi" can be attributed to several factors, including its relatively late release in the PlayStation's lifecycle, limited marketing efforts, and its niche appeal. As a result, copies of "Tombi" became increasingly sought-after over time, driving up its rarity and value.

Sales in Australia:

Although "Tombi" faced similar challenges in Australia, it managed to gain a small but dedicated following. Its distinct gameplay mechanics, charming graphics, and endearing characters resonated with players. However, due to limited distribution and a modest marketing campaign, the game remained relatively unknown to the broader gaming community. Consequently, finding a physical copy of "Tombi" in Australia today can be quite difficult, contributing to its rarity among collectors.

The Chances of a Re-release:

For fans eager to revisit the magical world of "Tombi," the possibility of a re-release remains uncertain. Whoopee Camp disbanded shortly after the release of the sequel, "Tombi! 2: The Evil Swine Return," which faced similar commercial struggles. As a result, the rights to the game may be in the hands of different entities, making negotiations for a re-release complicated. Additionally, the evolving gaming landscape and the focus on modern platforms pose challenges to reviving a lesser-known PS1 title. However, with the recent trend of remastered and re-released classics, there is still hope that "Tombi" might find its way back into the hands of eager gamers.

Price

At the time of writing, a complete copy of Tombi in Australia will set you back around $400-$500 depending on condition.