It’s a tough pill to swallow, but fake GameBoy games are definitely out there, and it's something every collector should be aware of. The Nintendo GameBoy is more than just a piece of tech; it’s a gateway to countless memories. For many of us, it was the first handheld console we ever owned. I can still hear that iconic start-up chime, and I’m sure many of you can too. The nostalgia is real, and unfortunately, some people want to take advantage of that.
Spotting Fakes with Gamer’s Haven
At Gamer’s Haven, we’re all about keeping retro gaming authentic. We’ve seen an increase in counterfeit GameBoy games here in the GCC, and whether the seller knows it or not, it’s crucial that you, as a collector, can tell the difference between a real game and a fake one.
This guide is here to help you do just that. While it’s not an exhaustive list, it covers the basics of what to look out for when buying GameBoy games. We’ll focus on some common issues you might find in the GCC, but the tips should be useful no matter where you’re buying from. For this example, I’m going to compare a genuine copy of Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins with a fake Pokemon Yellow cartridge.
Check for Wear and Tear
First things first—take a good look at the cartridge. A lot of fake GameBoy games look brand new, which is suspicious when you’re dealing with something that’s over 20 years old. Sure, you might come across a well-preserved original, but if the game looks like it just came off the production line, be cautious.
Check for signs of use. Does the cartridge have any scuffs or scratches? Has it been handled? Most of these games were played a lot back in the day, so they’re likely to show some wear and tear. Of course, this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, but it’s a good starting point.
The Nintendo GAMEBOY TM Recessed Area
Next, look at the top of the cartridge, where there’s a recessed area. In this space, you should see the words "Nintendo GAMEBOY TM" clearly displayed. This is true for all regions, including the ones common here in the GCC. If the cartridge only shows the word "GAME," like the fake Pokemon Yellow I’m looking at, it’s probably not the real deal.
Label Quality
Now, take a closer look at the label. On an authentic cartridge, the label should be perfectly aligned and printed with high quality. If it looks crooked, blurry, or poorly printed, you might be dealing with a fake. Pay attention to the text too—if it’s hard to read or looks off in any way, that’s another warning sign.
Identification Codes
Every GameBoy cartridge has an identification code that starts with the letters "DMG." For most games you’ll find in the GCC, which often come from Europe or the U.S., this code is usually printed vertically on the left side of the label. For Japanese imports, it’s usually horizontal across the top right.
You can check this code online to see if it matches the game in question. If it does, great! If not, or if the code doesn’t show up at all, you might have a counterfeit on your hands. For example, my legit Super Mario Land 2 cartridge has the code "DMG-MQ-UKV."
Also, look for "Made In Japan" on the label. This is typically in English, but it could be in another language depending on the version. The design and color of the label can vary too, so it’s worth doing a bit of research on the specific game you’re interested in.
The Nintendo Seal of Quality
Another thing to check is the Nintendo Seal of Quality. This little circular icon is usually found on the lower part of the label, either on the left or right. For games sold in the GCC, which are often European or American versions, this seal should be there. It should be a perfect circle with tiny triangles poking out, like a rosette. The inside of the circle should be white, with gold triangles around it.
Inspect the Back of the Cartridge
Don’t forget to check the back of the cartridge too. Authentic games often show groove marks from being slid in and out of a GameBoy. This kind of wear and tear is usually more noticeable on the back, where the cartridge meets the console.
The Screw
Lastly, take a look at the screw holding the cartridge together. Genuine GameBoy games use a special screw with a head that has six circular prongs. If the screw is missing, replaced, or doesn’t look right, be cautious. This screw is located in the center of the back, near the bottom.
Wrapping Up
Here at Gamer’s Haven, we’re all about helping you keep your retro gaming collection real. This guide gives you some key tips to help you spot fake GameBoy games. While there are always exceptions, following these guidelines will make you a smarter collector. We’re here to support the gaming community across the GCC, so stay vigilant and keep your collection authentic!