Loose, complete-in-box, sealed and graded games are different comparison categories. Record the platform, region, release and actual included contents before attaching any price to the game in your collection.
Start with the exact release
The same title can have regional editions, platform versions, re-releases and different packaging. Photograph the cover, disc or cartridge label and identifying codes. A familiar title is not enough for a matched comparison.
PriceCharting's methodology separates loose, complete, new and graded categories. Read the category definition and the actual source transaction; a seller can use “complete” more loosely than the evidence warrants.
Inventory the physical contents
| Component | What to check |
|---|---|
| Game media | Correct release, actual condition and any testing performed |
| Case or box | Original, replacement or uncertain |
| Manual | Correct edition, reproduction or absent |
| Inserts and extras | Identify what is present rather than assuming completeness |
| Seal or grade | Document the actual state; never infer it from a stock photo |
Keep functional and cosmetic condition distinct
A game can look clean but remain untested. Record what was actually tested and on what compatible setup if you have that information. Do not describe an untested disc as working merely because its label is readable. Likewise, do not undertake risky repairs just to complete an inventory.
Illustrative example: you own a cartridge with a reproduction box. A complete original-box sale should not be accepted as an exact match. Record the replacement packaging and look for relevant loose or disclosed-reproduction evidence instead of inventing a standard percentage deduction.
Compare a source carefully
- Match platform, region and release.
- Read the included contents and condition.
- Check whether a sale contains one game or a lot.
- Separate sealed or graded evidence from your opened example.
- Keep the evidence date and unresolved differences.
Use Pieces to organize games alongside other collectibles if that suits your collection. A specialist release database or testing log may still be useful; automatic region verification, disc testing and professional grading are not promised. The collectible portfolio guide explains the general ownership workflow.
Sources and further reading
Written by the Pieces team for personal collection recordkeeping. Competitor resources inform the topic; examples and checklists here are original. Pieces is independent of the named services.
Building a complete collection record? Start with how to track your closet’s value, then use this guide for the details.