The Counterfeit Problem
The retro gaming market has a growing counterfeit problem. Reproduction carts are becoming increasingly convincing, and selling them unknowingly damages your reputation.
Common Signs of Counterfeits
Label Quality
- Colors slightly off compared to authentic copies
- Font differences, especially in small text
- Label material feels different (glossy vs matte)
- Missing or incorrect regulatory logos (Nintendo Seal of Quality)
Cart Shell
- Screw type mismatch (authentic Nintendo uses gamebit screws)
- Shell color slightly wrong shade
- Mold quality differences — rough edges or seams
- Weight difference (counterfeits often lighter)
PCB Inspection
- Open the cart and compare the PCB to known authentic boards
- Counterfeit PCBs often have fewer components
- Check for glob-top chips (black blobs) — common in reproductions
- Look for correct manufacturer markings on chips
Game Boy Specific
- Hold up to light — authentic Game Boy carts are slightly translucent
- Check the Nintendo logo on the cart's circuit board
- Battery saves may not work on counterfeits
Using AI to Help
RetroSwap's authenticity checker can analyze photos of carts and compare them against known authentic examples, flagging potential counterfeits before they enter your inventory.
What To Do If You Find One
- Do not sell it as authentic
- Some stores sell clearly-labeled reproductions at lower prices
- Refund customers who unknowingly received counterfeits
- Document and track counterfeit sources