How to spot a reproduction cartridge

Reproduction carts and boxes are common. The warning signs to check before you buy, and a quick checklist.

Why it matters

A reproduction is a copy made recently to look like an original. Some are sold honestly as reproductions; some are not. They're worth a fraction of an original, and gamepricefeed leaves any listing that says reproduction, repro, custom or aftermarket out of its prices.

Warning signs

A price that's too good for a famous, valuable game.
The label: blurry or overly glossy printing, colours that look off, a label that's crooked or doesn't fit the recess, missing small print.
The shell: plastic of the wrong colour or texture, or ordinary screws where the original used special security screws.
Inside, if you can look: original boards carry the maker's markings; reproductions often use a different, simpler board.
The box and manual: thin card, flat printing, or a supposedly decades-old box with no wear at all.
The listing: words like repro, reproduction, custom, homebrew, aftermarket or "for display".

Quick checklist

The price is far below what this game usually sells for The label print looks blurry, too glossy or the colours are off The label is crooked or doesn't fit its recess Ordinary screws where the original uses security screws The shell colour or texture looks wrong The board inside looks simpler than an original's An 'old' box with no wear at all, or thin card The listing says repro, custom, homebrew or for display

If you're not sure

Ask the seller for clear photos of the label, the back of the cartridge and, if possible, the board inside. Compare with photos of a known original. Buy from sellers with a long, good record, and pay in a way that protects you.

Questions

Are reproductions illegal?

That depends on the game and where you live. What matters for a buyer: a reproduction is not an original and is worth far less.

Does gamepricefeed count reproduction sales?

No. Listings that say reproduction, repro, custom or aftermarket are left out of every price.

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