Original Banjo-Kazooie Animatronic from N64 Commercial Fetches $2,100 at Auction

In the world of video game collectibles, few items command as much nostalgia as artifacts from the golden era of Nintendo 64 advertising.

This sentiment was rekindled recently when the original animatronic Kazooie, featured in a memorable 1998 Banjo-Kazooie commercial, was sold at auction for $2,100.

The classic platformer, developed by Rare and published by Nintendo, has remained a touchstone for fans and collectors alike since its acclaimed N64 release. The 1998 Banjo-Kazooie commercial, known for its quirky humor, featured campers discussing the legends of a flying, bear-bird hybrid before the titular heroes swooped in, bringing the game's characters to life through animatronics.

The star of the ad, Kazooie, was created by AnimatedFX, Inc., a Los Angeles-based company renowned for their expertise in animatronics and special effects.

The firm’s craftsmanship was evident in the Kazooie puppet, which boasted a 4.5-foot wingspan and articulated mouth and eyes—a testament to the practical effects of the era. Fast-forward to December 2024, when Andrew Olson, a dedicated collector and fan, purchased the animatronic Kazooie at an online auction.

Olson shared his excitement in a Facebook Banjo-Kazooie group, noting that despite its age, the animatronic remained in excellent condition.

According to Olson, it makes for a “fun, nostalgic addition” to his office, further underlining the lasting impact of Banjo-Kazooie on fans who grew up with the Nintendo 64. The sale was first reported by GamesRadar+, with journalist Dustin Bailey tracing the animatronic’s provenance and confirming the final bid of $2,100.

While elaborate video game memorabilia like this are rare, the Kazooie puppet stands out for its direct connection to the iconic N64 title and its innovative marketing campaign. Banjo-Kazooie, originally released for the Nintendo 64 in June 1998, has enjoyed renewed attention in recent years through digital re-releases on platforms like Xbox Live Arcade and Nintendo Switch Online.

Developed by Rare, the game’s lighthearted characters and clever level design have ensured its enduring popularity—a factor that undoubtedly contributed to the enthusiasm surrounding this unique collectible. As gaming history becomes an increasingly prized field among collectors, one-of-a-kind items like the Banjo-Kazooie animatronic not only revive memories of classic Nintendo commercials but also highlight the creative efforts behind some of the industry’s most beloved franchises.

Olson’s acquisition is a vivid reminder of the vibrant legacy that Banjo-Kazooie, Rare, and the Nintendo 64 continue to represent for gamers and enthusiasts worldwide.

Nintendo Banjo-Kazooie Rare Nintendo 64 N64 platformer AnimatedFX Inc. GamesRadar+ Andrew Olson