Legendary Video Game Artist Stephen Peringer’s Iconic Nintendo Artwork Heads to Heritage Auctions

Stephen Peringer, a name synonymous with iconic video game art from the 1980s and 1990s, left an indelible mark on the gaming industry through his creative contributions for leading companies such as Nintendo, Irem, Square Soft, Sierra, and Kemco Seika.

Peringer, who sadly passed away last year, was known for his vast and varied body of work that spanned box art, promotional materials, and in-game illustrations, many of which remain instantly recognizable to gamers worldwide.

Now, Heritage Auctions is offering collectors and fans alike an exclusive opportunity to acquire some of Peringer’s rare and even previously unused artwork, with bidding set to open on May 5th, 2024. Peringer’s portfolio is a testament to his versatility and talent, having crafted memorable covers for games like "Final Fantasy Mystic Quest," "Deja Vu," and "Shadowgate." He also provided marquee and side art for Irem’s legendary shooter "R-Type" and was responsible for standout promotional illustrations for hits such as "Super Mario 64" and "King’s Quest VII: The Princeless Bride." Even those unfamiliar with his name have likely encountered his influence, seen in game shops, advertisements, and countless video game memorabilia throughout the decades. The upcoming auction at Heritage Auctions, listed after being discovered by VGDensetsu, features a curated selection of 12 items from Peringer’s archives.

Notable pieces include the instantly recognizable Super Mario 64 advert "Dinosaurs Will Fly," an unused cover art for the "Street Fighter II Turbo Player’s Guide," original cover art for the Game Boy classic "The Final Fantasy Legend," and the original SNES cover illustration for Irem’s 1992 release "GunForce." Each piece is a unique artifact from pivotal moments in video game history, reflecting not only Peringer’s artistic vision but also broader trends in gaming culture and graphic design during the era of the Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Nintendo, and Game Boy. While many fans and preservationists might hope that collections like these ultimately find their way into a museum or institutional archive, the reality is that such works often become prized parts of private collections.

Regardless of where these pieces end up, the auction marks a significant moment to reflect on Stephen Peringer’s impact and the cultural legacy of classic video game art. For those interested in bidding or simply wishing to view the collection, further details and the full catalogue can be found directly on Heritage Auctions’ official website.

This event not only offers a chance to own a piece of gaming history but also ensures that Peringer’s extraordinary contributions to the worlds of Nintendo, Square Soft, and beyond continue to inspire and captivate new generations of fans.

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