The numbering system associated with physical releases from Limited Run Games indicates the chronological order in which titles are published. Each game receives a unique number, signifying its place within the company’s catalog. For example, a game labeled “Limited Run #1” was the first physical release offered by the company, while “Limited Run #100” represents the hundredth. This sequential designation serves as a marker for collectors and enthusiasts, allowing them to track and identify specific releases within the company’s overall output.
This numbering system is important for several reasons. It provides transparency and organization to a business model predicated on scarcity and exclusivity. Collectors often use these numbers to catalog their collections, track down specific titles, and understand the historical progression of Limited Run Games’ offerings. The numbering also contributes to the perceived value and collectibility of individual games. As the company grows, the number associated with each title can act as a kind of legacy marker, influencing desirability and resale value. This identification method connects each title to the overall narrative and history of the company.
Understanding the numerical designation system is crucial for those interested in collecting or investing in physical media produced by Limited Run Games. It provides a framework for navigating their catalog and appreciating the history and significance of each numbered release. The following sections will explore the practical applications of this numbering system in game collecting, as well as factors that contribute to the value of numbered releases.
1. Sequential release identifier
The numerical identifier assigned to each physical release by Limited Run Games directly corresponds to its position in the company’s publishing sequence. This system functions as a sequential marker, with each number signifying the order in which the title became available for purchase. The absence of a number would render it impossible to ascertain a games place within the companys timeline, removing a key aspect of its collectibility and historical context. For instance, if a prospective buyer is evaluating two games, Limited Run #50 and Limited Run #100, the sequential release identifier instantly provides information: Limited Run #50 was released earlier than Limited Run #100. This clear distinction becomes important for collectors seeking specific titles based on release era or perceived rarity.
The practical significance of this sequential identification extends beyond mere cataloging. It influences the perceived value of individual releases in the secondary market. Early releases, particularly those with low numbers, often command higher prices due to their historical importance and limited availability. The sequential identifier provides verifiable evidence of a game’s age and position within the Limited Run Games catalog, contributing to its perceived scarcity and, consequently, its potential resale value. Furthermore, the identifier aids in the accurate tracking of production runs, enabling collectors to identify variants or errors associated with specific releases.
In summary, the sequential release identifier is an indispensable component of the Limited Run Games system. It establishes a chronological framework that is vital for cataloging, historical context, and influencing market valuation. This structured identification system provides collectors with a means to navigate the company’s catalog effectively, assess the rarity and significance of individual releases, and make informed purchasing decisions. The sequential release identifier acts as a key element of Limited Run Games’ approach to physical media preservation and collecting.
2. Chronological Order
The numbering system employed by Limited Run Games directly reflects the chronological order in which physical releases are made available. This system provides a clear and unambiguous timeline of the company’s output, establishing a framework for understanding the evolution of its catalog.
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Release Sequencing
The numbers assigned to each game correspond to their position in the release schedule. A lower number indicates an earlier release date, while a higher number signifies a more recent publication. This sequencing allows collectors and enthusiasts to track the company’s output in the order it was originally presented. For example, a game with the designation “Limited Run #25” was released before a game designated “Limited Run #75.”
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Historical Context
The chronological order provides a historical context for understanding the company’s trajectory. By examining the release sequence, one can discern patterns in the types of games published, the partnerships formed, and the evolution of the company’s aesthetic and marketing strategies. Analysis of release #1-20 compared to release #100-120 might reveal shifts in genre focus, platform support, or packaging design, therefore reflecting a progression over time.
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Collectibility Significance
The chronological placement of a game can impact its collectibility. Early releases often acquire greater historical significance and are highly sought after by collectors seeking to assemble a complete set. Scarcity and historical importance are intertwined; the earlier the release, the greater the likelihood of diminished availability, and thus higher perceived value within collector circles. A higher number does not guarantee a lower collectibility.
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Information and Data resource for collectors
It is a primary mean for the collector to assess the possible value of the numbered release. The number, combined with knowledge of Limited Run Games’ release history, provides insights into release volume, potential for variants, and other factors that influence collectibility.
In summary, chronological order, as indicated by the numbered releases from Limited Run Games, provides a framework for understanding the history, evolution, and collectibility of their physical releases. By recognizing the significance of this sequencing, enthusiasts and collectors can gain a more comprehensive appreciation for the company’s contribution to physical media preservation.
3. Cataloging purposes
The numerical system employed by Limited Run Games is integral to cataloging their releases. Each title is assigned a unique identifying number, enabling efficient tracking and organization within collections and databases. The correlation between this system and cataloging is causal: the numbered releases directly facilitate the process. Without this numerical designation, collectors and retailers would face substantial difficulties in differentiating between titles, especially those with similar names or artwork. The existence of “Limited Run #1,” “Limited Run #2,” etc., permits precise identification and prevents confusion, thus enabling effective inventory management and collection maintenance.
Consider the practical application of this system. A collector attempting to organize their Limited Run Games collection relies on these numbers to ensure accurate placement of each title. Online databases dedicated to tracking Limited Run Games releases similarly depend on the numbering to distinguish individual products. For instance, if a collector possesses multiple copies of a game, knowing the specific Limited Run number can help determine if there are variations within that particular release (e.g., different packaging, included extras, or revision versions). Retailers also benefit, as the numbers streamline the process of listing and managing inventory, reducing the likelihood of errors and improving overall efficiency.
In conclusion, the numerical system deployed by Limited Run Games is not merely an aesthetic choice; it is a fundamental component of their operation, particularly concerning cataloging. This system provides a structured and standardized method for tracking, organizing, and differentiating releases, benefiting collectors, retailers, and databases alike. While challenges may arise in cases of re-releases or special editions, the core numbering system remains essential for maintaining a clear and manageable record of Limited Run Games’ offerings. It is this system that allows collectors to confidently and efficiently build and manage their collections.
4. Collectibility marker
The numbered system within Limited Run Games functions as a significant collectibility marker, directly influencing perceived value and desirability. The number assigned to a game is not merely a sequential identifier; it’s an indicator of its position within the company’s history and, consequently, its potential rarity. This numbering acts as a shorthand for collectors, quickly conveying information about a title’s release order and possible production run. This marker influences collector behavior, often driving demand for earlier or particularly unique numbered releases. For example, if a specific Limited Run Games title, denoted as #35, features a unique art style compared to the company’s broader catalog, the numbered release might garner disproportionate attention and increased value due to its position as a distinct collectibility marker.
The relationship between the number and collectibility is multifaceted. Lower numbers often correlate with higher demand due to their early release status and perceived scarcity. However, specific titles with higher numbers, such as those featuring popular franchises or innovative packaging, can also become highly sought-after. Furthermore, the existence of variants or special editions within a given numbered release adds another layer of complexity, transforming the number into an even more granular collectibility marker. A collector might specifically seek out “Limited Run #72 – Collector’s Edition” over the standard version, again emphasizing the role of the number in differentiating and driving demand.
Ultimately, the numerical designation system used by Limited Run Games serves as a foundational element in establishing collectibility. It provides a framework for understanding the company’s history, differentiating between releases, and assessing potential value. This system allows collectors to navigate the catalog effectively and make informed decisions based on the unique attributes associated with each numbered title. While factors beyond the number itself clearly influence market prices, the number remains a crucial and readily accessible indicator of a game’s position within the Limited Run Games ecosystem and its appeal to collectors.
5. Historical Context
The numerical sequence associated with Limited Run Games releases provides a framework for understanding the historical context surrounding the company’s activities and the broader landscape of physical media preservation. These numbers are not merely arbitrary identifiers; they are chronological markers reflecting the evolution of the company’s catalog and its impact on the gaming industry.
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Reflection of Market Trends
The specific games chosen for physical release, as indicated by their numbered sequence, reflect the prevailing market trends at the time of their publication. Early releases may showcase a focus on retro-inspired titles or indie darlings, whereas later releases might indicate a shift toward more mainstream or commercially successful games. Analyzing the sequence of releases can provide insight into Limited Run Games’ strategic adaptations to changing consumer preferences and industry demands.
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Preservation of Gaming Culture
The numbered releases contribute to the preservation of gaming culture by making digitally distributed games available in physical form. This initiative is particularly significant for titles that might otherwise be lost to obsolescence due to platform closures or digital storefront shutdowns. Each numbered release thus serves as a tangible artifact of gaming history, preserving a specific title and its cultural significance for future generations. The numbering underscores the intentionality of this preservation effort.
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Evolution of Physical Media
The design and packaging of Limited Run Games’ physical releases, as seen across the numbered sequence, illustrate the evolution of physical media presentation. Early releases might feature simpler packaging, while later releases may incorporate elaborate collector’s editions with bonus content and premium materials. Examining this evolution provides insight into the company’s growing sophistication and its commitment to providing collectors with high-quality, desirable physical products. The numbered sequence therefore maps the development of physical media as a collector’s item.
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Impact on Game Development
The success of Limited Run Games’ model has potentially influenced game development by providing a viable avenue for smaller developers to recoup costs and reach a dedicated audience through physical releases. The numbered releases demonstrate the demand for physical copies of games, even in an increasingly digital landscape, and may incentivize developers to consider physical releases as part of their overall strategy. This influence on the development landscape is implicitly documented by the ongoing sequence of releases.
In essence, the numbered sequence of Limited Run Games releases provides a valuable lens through which to examine the historical context of the company’s operations, the evolution of physical media, and the broader trends within the gaming industry. These numbers serve as chronological markers, allowing collectors and historians to understand the significance of each release and its contribution to the preservation of gaming culture.
6. Value indicator
The numerical system employed by Limited Run Games provides insight into the potential market value of its releases. These numbers serve as a proxy for scarcity, historical significance, and overall demand within the collector’s market, thereby functioning as an indirect but relevant value indicator.
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Rarity Perception
Lower numbers in the Limited Run Games sequence often correlate with higher perceived rarity, as they represent earlier releases with potentially smaller production runs. This perception impacts market value, with collectors often willing to pay a premium for titles considered foundational to the company’s catalog. For example, a Limited Run #1 release, if well-preserved, may command a significantly higher price than a later release due to its association with the company’s origins and assumed scarcity.
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Historical Significance
The numerical sequence contextualizes each release within the company’s historical timeline. Certain numbers might be associated with key partnerships, innovative packaging, or critically acclaimed titles, thereby increasing their value. A release numbered around the time of a major company milestone or featuring a partnership with a renowned developer may be viewed as more historically significant, and thus more valuable, than a release without such associations. This contextual significance can be gauged through publicly available information relating to past events.
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Market Demand Correlation
The numerical sequence, in conjunction with other factors such as game genre, platform, and critical reception, can reflect market demand. Highly sought-after games, regardless of their position in the sequence, may experience inflated prices due to collector interest. However, within a set of equally popular games, the lower-numbered release might still exhibit a higher price due to the aforementioned perception of scarcity and historical significance. Market trends provide data for gauging demand, however, and should be considered when valuing a specific number.
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Sequential Collection Completeness
For collectors aiming to assemble a complete Limited Run Games catalog, the numerical sequence plays a pivotal role in determining the value of individual titles. Missing numbers in a collection can significantly diminish its overall value, while possessing consecutive numbered releases enhances its completeness and collectibility. The number, therefore, becomes a marker of progress towards completing a collection and a determinant of its potential resale value as a complete set.
In conclusion, the numerical system employed by Limited Run Games functions as a multifaceted value indicator within the collector’s market. The numbers reflect perceptions of rarity, historical significance, and overall demand, thereby influencing collector behavior and market prices. While factors beyond the number undoubtedly contribute to the final valuation of a title, the sequence serves as a valuable reference point for assessing its potential worth.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries concerning the numerical identification system used by Limited Run Games for its physical releases. The information provided aims to clarify the purpose and significance of these numbers for collectors and enthusiasts.
Question 1: What is the significance of the number associated with a Limited Run Games release?
The number indicates the chronological order in which the title was released as a physical product by Limited Run Games. It is a unique identifier for cataloging and collection purposes.
Question 2: Does a lower number automatically mean a game is more valuable?
Generally, earlier releases with lower numbers tend to be more sought after due to scarcity and historical significance, potentially leading to higher market values. However, factors like game popularity, edition type, and condition also influence value.
Question 3: Is the number related to the production quantity of the game?
The number does not directly indicate the production quantity. Production numbers vary between releases and are not encoded within the release number itself. Information on production runs can be gleaned from other sources, such as official announcements or community data.
Question 4: What happens when a game is re-released? Does it get a new number?
Re-releases, if they occur, might be treated differently depending on the release specifics. A straight re-release would often maintain the original number. A substantially altered version might receive a new number, depending on Limited Run Games’ policy and the degree of changes. Consult official announcements for clarification on a case-by-case basis.
Question 5: How can the number be used to track down a specific game?
The number can be used as a search term on online marketplaces, collector forums, and databases dedicated to Limited Run Games releases. Including the number in a search query helps to narrow down results and ensure accuracy in identifying the desired title.
Question 6: Does Limited Run Games have any official documentation regarding their numbering system?
Limited Run Games does not publish explicit documentation detailing the intricacies of its numbering system. Information is primarily gathered through observations of release patterns and community analysis.
In summary, the numerical designation system provides a useful, if not perfectly comprehensive, method for tracking and contextualizing Limited Run Games releases. Consider various factors beyond just the number when evaluating the value or significance of a particular title.
The following section will transition to practical tips for collecting and managing Limited Run Games releases.
Collecting Limited Run Games
Effective collection of Limited Run Games titles necessitates a strategic approach, recognizing the significance of the numerical identification system and its implications for value and completeness.
Tip 1: Utilize the Number for Identification. Employ the Limited Run number to ensure accurate identification of specific releases. Discrepancies in titles or packaging variations necessitate precise identification using the number, precluding errors in acquisition or cataloging. A collector might inadvertently purchase a variant of a specific numbered release if the number is not cross-referenced with a reliable database.
Tip 2: Prioritize Early Numbers for Historical Significance. Early releases, designated by lower numbers, often command higher prices and hold greater historical importance. Direct acquisition of these titles, when available, may prove more cost-effective than later purchases on the secondary market. These early releases also represent the beginning of the series, as represented by the numbered releases.
Tip 3: Track Production Quantities, if Possible. Although the number does not explicitly indicate production quantity, understanding the approximate production run for a particular numbered release can inform acquisition strategies. Limited Run Games production runs vary by numbered release.
Tip 4: Monitor Re-releases and Variants. Re-releases or variants of a numbered release may present unique acquisition opportunities. Assess the differences between the original release and the re-release before making a purchase decision, taking into account the assigned number and any differentiating characteristics.
Tip 5: Leverage Online Resources and Communities. Online databases and collector communities provide valuable information regarding the numerical sequence, production quantities, and variant details of Limited Run Games releases. Consulting these resources can inform purchasing decisions and assist in tracking down specific numbered releases.
Tip 6: Consider the Complete Set. The value of a Limited Run Games collection often increases proportionally with its completeness. If the objective is to compile a comprehensive collection, developing a system for tracking acquired numbered releases and identifying remaining gaps is crucial.
Tip 7: Document All Acquisitions. Maintain a detailed record of all acquisitions, including the Limited Run number, date of purchase, price paid, and condition of the item. This documentation facilitates insurance claims, appraisal requests, and potential future sales.
Strategic collection practices, informed by an understanding of the Limited Run Games numbering system, can optimize acquisition efforts, mitigate risks, and maximize the long-term value of a collection. Understanding the numbering releases will benefit collectors immensely.
The following section concludes the article by summarizing the core principles discussed.
Conclusion
This exploration of “limited run games what does the number mean” establishes the numerical designation as a crucial identifier within the Limited Run Games ecosystem. The sequence serves as a chronological marker, facilitating cataloging, informing perceptions of value, and contextualizing releases within the company’s history. While factors beyond the number itself influence market dynamics, understanding its significance is essential for informed collecting.
Recognizing the multifaceted role of these numbered releases empowers collectors to navigate the Limited Run Games landscape effectively. As physical media preservation gains increasing importance, a continued appreciation for the nuances of this numbering system will enhance the value and enjoyment derived from these tangible artifacts of gaming history. Collectors should, therefore, consult official information from Limited Run Games to make the most educated decision when purchasing a product.
