How to Spot Fake Retro Gaming Games, Consoles & Merchandise

Counterfeit retro gaming products are unfortunately common, but with some careful inspection, you can avoid falling victim to these scams. Use this guide to help identify fakes and ensure your collection/set-up remains authentic.

1. Check the Packaging

• Authentic Details: Original boxes usually have high-quality printing, official logos, and detailed descriptions.
• Red Flags: Blurry text, grammatical errors, or incorrect logos often indicate a counterfeit.
• Look & Feel: New counterfeit (repro) boxes often look glossier, and almost perfect - as if it had just been printed, because it most likely has, original boxes often become a little scuffed and folded and wont look like they just came out of the factory.

2. Inspect Labels and Serial Numbers

• Original Labels: Official games and consoles have clear labels with aligned text and authentic fonts. Serial numbers should match the system or game version.
• Signs of Fakes: Peeling labels, mismatched fonts, or missing serial numbers are common in counterfeits.

3. Examine Build Quality

• Authentic Build: Original cartridges and consoles have solid construction, durable plastic, and clean seams.
• Fake Signs: Rough edges, inconsistent colouring, or lightweight plastic can indicate a fake.
• Check the inside: if you have doubts about something you own & your comfortable taking a console or game apart you can check the insides as the vast majority of boards will bear signature trademarks and will be consistent over time - re-makes often use modern boards which can easily be identified as being different from an original.

4. Test the Game or Console

• Performance: Authentic games load quickly and function without glitches on the intended system.
• Red Flags: Freezing, crashing, or graphics that differ from the original are common issues with counterfeit games.

5. Research Market Prices

• Realistic Prices: Genuine rare games and consoles often sell for predictable ranges.
• Too Good to Be True: Prices far below the market value are a strong warning sign.

6. Look for Official Documentation

• Authentic Items: Many products come with manuals, warranty cards, or certificates of authenticity.
• Fakes: Missing or poorly printed documentation is another red flag.

7. Purchase from Reputable Sellers

• Trusted Platforms: eBay with verified sellers who have good feedback & specialised retro gaming stores are safer options.
• Avoid: Unverified listings on marketplaces or obscure websites with little seller information.

8. Join Gaming Communities

• Community Insights: Forums and social media groups are valuable for identifying authentic items and spotting scams.
• Collective Expertise: Members often share tips and experiences to help fellow collectors.

Tools to Help You Verify

1. Weight Comparisons: Authentic cartridges and consoles often weigh more due to higher-quality materials.
2. Online Databases: Use websites or specific forums to compare items against known authentic versions.

Spotting fakes can be tricky, but with practice and vigilance, you’ll protect your collection and enjoy genuine retro gaming experiences. For trusted retro gaming tools and guides please subscribe, and help us grow!

If you have a specific enquiry or need further advice on spotting fakes, please leave a comment below