Condition of GBA titles?

W

Woede

CAG Veteran
What sort of damage/problems could you run into on GBA titles when they're listed as being in "good" or "acceptable" condition on online outlets like amazon and the like? Really, what could be wrong with cartridges like that?
 
They could be knock-offs and the people are trying to give themselves an out. You have to be really careful buying GBA games online (especially from eBay, but they also exist on Amazon and Half and other places).
 
So you're all basically saying that there's nothing to worry about other than basic aestethic problems, right?
 
[quote name='Woede']So you're all basically saying that there's nothing to worry about other than basic aestethic problems, right?[/quote]


Yeah, that and it could be a bootleg cart.
 
[quote name='Woede']So you're all basically saying that there's nothing to worry about other than basic aestethic problems, right?[/QUOTE]

Unfortunately, those kinds of descriptions are so subjective that it's difficult to tell what the seller was thinking when they listed it.

If you're really curious, you could try e-mailing them and seeing the response you get.
 
According to half.com, anything missing the box or manual should technically be "acceptable" -- but that's often ignored for cartridge-only games and they just state "no box" or something in the description.
 
if it's a bootleg game, it should be completely refundable..."acceptable" condition does not in any way cover themselves for selling a fake game.

I'd think torn label can be the worst we're thinking of here as long as it works. Although, I won't deal with those, I'd make sure first.
 
[quote name='"Amazon Listing Guidelines']
  • New: Just like it sounds. A brand-new, unused, unopened video game in perfect condition in its original packaging and with all original packaging materials included.
  • Like New: An apparently unopened video game in perfect condition (although it may be out of its original wrapping). The box and item are pristine, with no signs of wear. Suitable for presenting as a gift.
  • Very Good: A well-cared-for video game that has been played but remains in great condition. The game and its original packaging are complete and slightly worn, but unmarked and undamaged.
  • Good: The video game shows wear from consistent use, but remains in good condition. There may be clear external signs of wear and damage to the original packaging or instructions, but the game plays perfectly. The video game may have identification markings from its owner.
  • Acceptable: The video game is fairly worn, but it continues to work perfectly. The box and instructions may be missing or damaged. The video game may have identification markings from its owner.
[/QUOTE]

People rarely keep the box and manual for cartridge-only games, so, the few sellers that actually read the rules tend to list them as "acceptable" even if the game itself is fine. I know that for the particularly old cartridge stuff, that rule is generally ignored but it is mentioned that box/manual are missing in the description.
 
Trust me, excellent condition on these sites doesn't mean squat. A "like new" or "excellent condition" game will often be filthy dirty, covered in kid grime and not working, this is true especially on ebay. Of course a little cleaning of the contacts with rubbing alcohol and a q-tip makes them work 99% of the time. Sometimes you will run into a dead game, usually that only happens if they have been previously submerged in water, hopefully when and if this happens it will happen from gamestop so you can at least return it. This is just from personal experience. Think gamestop quality games basically.
 
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