Who Grades Old Video Games?
The nostalgic joy of collecting old video games has led to a flourishing industry of grading and authentication. Among the pioneers is Wata Games, an established company that provides rigorous authentication and grading services to retro gaming enthusiasts. Other players like CGC (Certified Guaranty Company) and Beckett Grading Services are also part of the equation.
What is Grading and Authentication?
Grading refers to the evaluation of the physical condition, completeness, and aesthetic appeal of a game to assign a grade or rank on a scale (0-10). This system provides buyers and sellers a standard measure of the item’s condition, enabling price comparisons and facilitating market value determinations.
Authentication is the process of verifying the authenticity of the game, ensuring that the copy being sold is original and not a reproduction, fake, or manipulated copy. Authenticity guarantees protect both the buyer and the seller by preventing disputes arising from questionable provenance or modified condition.
Types of Grading Companies:
There are various types of grading companies catering to the diverse needs of video game collectors. Each firm has its unique standards, protocols, and certification labels:
• Wata Games: Known for its expert evaluation and precise classification system.
• CGC Video Games: Industry pioneer offering a grading platform with comprehensive certification services.
• Beckett Grading Services: Another recognized company in the grading industry, specializing in collectible comic books and video games.
• Heritage Auctions: A premier auction house, offering authenticated gaming memorabilia and rare titles.
• Goldin Auctions: Specialized in authenticated sports and pop culture collectibles, including vintage video games.
The Importance of Grading in Video Games:
Grade, a measure of quality and authenticity, becomes significant for buyers, sellers, and collectors when purchasing, trading, or selling old video games. Here’s why:
• Buyers: With grading, they gain assurance that the item’s condition, rarity, and provenance are authentic. Graded games enable market-driven prices, protecting investors and ensuring fair valuations.
• Sellers: Authentication and grading certify the game’s origin and quality, providing sellers an assurance that their game has market value and legitimacy, hence commanding a better asking price.
• Collectors: Graded video games hold significant sentimental, artistic, and financial value. Authentication and grading increase confidence, allowing collectors to purchase rare and high-priced games without concerns.
Cost and Speed of Grading Services:
Prices vary across companies, influenced by the complexity of the certification process and the cost of shipping, handling, and evaluating games. Typical services offered and their estimated prices include:
| Grading Service | Basic Fee | Rush Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Wata Games | $5 (non-wata label), $25 (Wata label) | N/A |
| CGC Video Games | $5 – $125 (per title, per label) | N/A |
| Beckett Grading Services | $4 – $250 (per title, per label) | $35 (1-3 day service) |
| Heritage Auctions | Free auction service; commission fee of 12.5-25% | N/A |
| Goldin Auctions | Free auction service; commission fee of 10-20% | N/A |
Processing time and fees may apply:
- Basic service: Typically takes 2-12 weeks.
- Rush service: Express processing usually completed within 1-4 weeks.
Tips and Recommendations for Grading Video Games:
- Choose a reputable service: Ensure the chosen service is trusted and respected by collectors, with clear instructions, secure submission processes, and accurate certification.
- Document your submission: Retain records, certificates of authenticity, and any correspondence during the submission process for further verification and potential disputes.
- Condition check: Prior to grading, carefully inspect the game to detect any damage, issues, or tampering to ensure the grading process can accurately evaluate the game.
- Resealability: Be prepared to receive a non-Sealed, Graded card with Wata Games services. The card cannot be resold with its current graded value.
- Compare services: When possible, submit multiple samples to various grading companies, evaluating differences in grade consistency and value.
In summary, video game grading ensures the integrity and market worth of these nostalgic and cultural icons. By choosing reliable and recognized grading companies and adhering to industry-recognized guidelines, collectors can maximize their investment, purchase rare titles with confidence, and share their passion with the gaming community.
Whether a novice or a seasoned collector, understanding the art of video game grading simplifies the process, ultimately securing your place as an active and informed player within this rapidly growing and entertaining field.