I think that retro gaming is generational. Meaning that the ones who partake of the passion grew up during those consoles that they love to go back to. At some point that generation of gamers will pass on, get to a point where their passion grows cold, or grow into something else, etc. I don't think things like this will be passed on to another generation. I know there is virtual console, but that will only last as long as that certain age group is still around to make it profitable. Sometime within the next few years things will change.
I think there is a corner out there that we will go around and what is considered retro now will fall to the wayside and be lost. Prices will plummet. What is NES now to some, with the next generation it will possibly be PS1 or PS2, etc. NES and other cart based consoles will go the way of the Atari 2600. I still see some of the 2600 carts in one local game store, but they are a dime a dozen. Sort-of like the old gray original gameboy carts. And brick & mortar game stores are drowning right now trying to stay afloat. They are selling everything but the kitchen sink. I feel like I am in Hot Topics every time I walk into one. I have to hunt for the games.
Anyone else seeing the writing on the wall? What say you?