The entry price has gone up compared to years ago. $250 is probably around the baseline these days for an EM or early solid state game which might or might not be at least partially working.

I can still get games for that price, but you have to be able to respond and move very quickly. It's pretty competitive out there--lots of people hunting for games while the supply is dwindling. That's why I always cringe these days when a game gets parted out unnecessarily. There are a lot of people who would tackle a project that someone else might think is not worthwhile.

For a fully working, plug & play game--you can still get EMs for $400-$600. For early solid state, $500 is usually about the floor Although, I saw a working dynomite in my area for $400 a few days ago.

You also have to be open to settling on whatever titles happen to become available--if you want a specific game, you'll either have to pay for it, or simply get lucky in finding one.

So, if you want to get into this hobby, then yes, you need to have some spare funds for it. Any hobby that requires parts and materials can be costly.

It can really be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be.

Rarity and desirability tend to drive up the price.

Despite the rising prices, I enjoy the thrill of the hunt for bargains, hidden treasures, and neglected games.

Not everybody wants to or has the time to do that, though. But on the other hand, there are some collectors who go far beyond that and pick-up games in bulk with a fair amount of frequency. Wish I had the contacts (and space) for that.