Retro gaming has never been more popular, and with that surge in demand comes an unfortunate side effect: fake cartridges, counterfeit discs, and scam sellers trying to rip off collectors. Whether you’re looking for a classic SNES game, a rare Sega Genesis cartridge, or a PlayStation 1 disc, it’s important to know how to identify fakes and avoid scams before spending your hard-earned money.
Fake retro games have been around for decades, but modern counterfeits are more convincing than ever. Some look almost identical to the originals, but they often come with low-quality components, missing features, or even non-working parts. If you’re a collector or just someone who wants to play authentic versions of classic games, learning how to spot fakes and avoid scams is essential.
Why Are Fake Retro Games a Problem?
The biggest issue with counterfeit retro games is that they aren’t always easy to detect. Some sellers pass off reproduction cartridges as authentic, while others knowingly sell bootleg discs or reproduction labels on real cartridges. The result? Gamers end up paying premium prices for low-quality fakes that may not work properly or hold any real value.
Common problems with fake retro games include:
❌ Bad save functionality – Many fake cartridges use cheap memory chips that fail to save progress.
❌ Poor build quality – Cheap plastics, incorrect colors, and low-resolution labels are common in fake games.
❌ Missing special features – Some games originally had battery backup saves or custom chips that fakes don’t include.
❌ Non-working PCBs – Counterfeit games often use inferior circuit boards that fail quickly.
❌ Legal and ethical concerns – Buying fakes supports scammers and counterfeiters, rather than original developers or preservation efforts.
Now that we understand why fake games are a problem, let’s dive into how to spot them and avoid getting scammed.
How to Identify Fake Retro Game Cartridges
Cartridge-based games (NES, SNES, Game Boy, Sega Genesis, N64, etc.) are some of the most commonly counterfeited retro games. If you’re buying a cartridge, always inspect these key details before purchasing:
1. Label Quality & Print Details
Legitimate retro game cartridges have high-quality labels with vibrant colors and sharp printing. Counterfeit games often use low-resolution labels that appear blurry, faded, or overly glossy.
🔍 How to check:
- Compare the label to a known authentic copy online (Google Images, game forums, or price guide websites).
- Look for incorrect fonts, misaligned text, or missing logos.
- Check for “reproduction” or “fan-made” markings—some sellers openly label their fakes.
2. Cartridge Shell Differences
The plastic shell of a cartridge should feel sturdy, smooth, and properly molded. Fakes often use cheaper, lighter plastic with incorrect textures or colors.
🔍 How to check:
- Compare the cartridge’s color and texture with an authentic one.
- Many real cartridges have small Nintendo, Sega, or Sony branding on the shell—fakes sometimes miss these details.
- If the screws on the back are Philips-head instead of security screws, it’s likely fake.
3. Open the Cartridge and Inspect the PCB
If possible, open the cartridge and inspect the circuit board inside. Most real games have official branding and serial numbers on the PCB, while fake games often use generic-looking boards with poor soldering.
🔍 How to check:
- Look for Nintendo, Sega, or Sony branding on the circuit board.
- Authentic games usually have gold or well-soldered contacts—fakes often have cheap, thin contacts that wear down quickly.
- If the board looks too new or generic, it’s probably fake.
How to Identify Fake Retro Game Discs
Fake discs are becoming more common, especially for expensive PlayStation, Dreamcast, and GameCube games. Bootleggers create burned copies that look authentic but lack proper reflective layers, logos, and factory-pressed details.
1. Look for Missing Logos and Holograms
Authentic game discs from Sony, Sega, and Nintendo usually have pressed logos, serial numbers, and holographic elements. Bootlegs often lack these details.
🔍 How to check:
- Look for the Nintendo, Sega, or PlayStation hologram—fakes rarely have them.
- Check the inner ring of the disc for official factory-pressed serial numbers.
- If the print looks too bright, glossy, or blurry, it could be a counterfeit.
2. Check the Underside of the Disc
Authentic discs have a factory-pressed surface, while bootlegs are burned onto recordable media.
🔍 How to check:
- Most real PS1 and PS2 games have a reflective silver or black bottom—burned fakes often have bluish or purple tint.
- Look for visible burning rings—these indicate a homemade copy.
- If it looks too perfect or lacks the proper reflection, it’s likely a bootleg.
How to Avoid Retro Gaming Scams
Even if you know how to spot fakes, scammers will always try new tricks. Here’s how to avoid getting ripped off when buying retro games:
✅ Buy from Reputable Sellers – Stick to trusted retailers, local game shops, or well-rated eBay sellers. Avoid listings that seem too good to be true.
✅ Check for Red Flags in Listings – If a seller has stock images, avoids questions, or sells rare games for cheap, it’s suspicious.
✅ Use Buyer Protection Services – If buying online, use PayPal Goods & Services or platforms with money-back guarantees.
✅ Avoid Bulk “New” Retro Games – If a seller has hundreds of sealed copies of rare games, they’re probably fake.
✅ Join Retro Gaming Communities – Forums like r/gamecollecting on Reddit, Discord groups, and specialized websites can help verify listings.
Most Commonly Counterfeited Retro Games
Some games are targeted by counterfeiters more than others due to their high value. Here are some of the most commonly faked games that you should inspect extra carefully:
🔥 NES & SNES: EarthBound, Chrono Trigger, Final Fantasy III, Mega Man X3, Little Samson
🔥 Sega Genesis: Castlevania: Bloodlines, MUSHA, Mega Man: The Wily Wars, Contra: Hard Corps
🔥 Game Boy & GBA: Pokémon FireRed/LeafGreen, Metroid Fusion, Zelda: Minish Cap
🔥 PlayStation & Dreamcast: Silent Hill, Suikoden II, Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Skies of Arcadia
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself from Retro Game Scams
Retro gaming should be about reliving great memories—not getting scammed. Learning how to identify fake cartridges and discs will save you money and frustration in the long run. Whether you’re collecting for nostalgia or investment, buying authentic games ensures you’re preserving gaming history.
Have you ever encountered a fake retro game? What’s your best tip for avoiding scams? Drop a comment below and help fellow gamers stay safe!