i had a similar problem when i wanted sonic the hedgehog for my gameboy advance. it was really impossible to find and when i did find it (in chinatown in NYC) it was REALLY expensive.
i tried to haggle with the guy behind the counter (since these videogame stores are own independantly in chinatown) but he wouldnt budge. thought i was taking advantage of the "law enforcement discount" and declined.
I just looked on ebay like you suggested. Only problem is they are REALLY spendy. Everyone knows it's rare so they jack up the price. Bastards! :sad: Oh well, just I just better do it.