Complete SNES Collecting Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Visual Inspection

• Label Quality: Real labels are glossy and reflective. Fakes are often matte or have incorrect colors.
• Nintendo Logo: Should be crisp and clear. Fakes often have blurry or incorrect logos.
• Font and Spelling: Check for spelling errors or incorrect fonts. Real games have consistent typography.
• Cartridge Weight: Real cartridges have a specific weight. Fakes often feel lighter or cheaper.

Physical Inspection

• Screws: Real SNES cartridges use tri-wing (Y-shaped) screws. Fakes often use Phillips head screws.
• Plastic Quality: Real cartridges feel solid and well-made. Fakes often feel cheap or flimsy.
• PCB Inspection: If you can open the cartridge, real games have Nintendo-branded PCBs with specific markings and date codes.

Price Red Flags

If a game that normally costs $200 is listed for $30, it's almost certainly fake. Be suspicious of prices that seem too good to be true. Always ask sellers for detailed photos of the cartridge, label, and PCB if possible.

Start with Affordable Games

Build your collection with $5-20 games first. Learn what you like, understand the market, and develop your authentication skills before investing in expensive titles. This prevents costly mistakes.

Buy Loose Before CIB

Loose cartridges cost 50-70% less than CIB (Complete In Box). Start with loose games, upgrade to CIB later if you want. You can always add boxes and manuals later.

Wait for Deals

Prices fluctuate. December and January are typically slower seasons with lower prices. Set price alerts, watch auctions, and be patient. Don't buy the first listing you see.

Bundle Buys

Buying multiple games from one seller saves on shipping and often gets you a discount. Look for "lot" listings or message sellers about bundle deals.

Why Japanese Games Are Cheaper

• Larger print runs in Japan kept prices low
• Different collecting culture focuses on condition over hype
• Less speculation and FOMO-driven price spikes
• Mainstream hits in Japan stayed common and affordable

How to Play Japanese Games

Use a $12-25 region adapter, remove the plastic tab from your SNES (5-minute mod), or buy a Japanese Super Famicom console ($30-50). The hardware is identical—it's just a physical region lock.

Best Games for Non-Japanese Speakers

Action games, fighting games, platformers, and sports games work perfectly without Japanese knowledge. RPGs are text-heavy but have fan translations available.

eBay

Largest marketplace. Look for sellers with 99%+ ratings, detailed photos, and clear return policies. Read descriptions carefully and check seller feedback for mentions of fakes.

Local Game Stores

Physical stores let you inspect games before buying. Prices are usually higher, but you can verify authenticity. Build relationships with store owners for deals.

Japanese Imports (Yahoo Auctions, Mercari)

Use proxy services like Buyee or FromJapan. Prices are much lower, fakes are rare. Shipping takes longer but saves significant money.

Facebook Marketplace / Local Groups

Local sellers often have better prices. Join SNES collecting groups. Always inspect items before paying, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity
• Keep cartridges in protective cases or drawers
• Store boxes upright to prevent crushing

Protective Cases

Use plastic game cases or storage drawers to protect cartridges from dust and damage. For CIB games, consider protective box protectors to prevent crushing and wear.

Organization

Organize by alphabet, genre, or region. Use labels or a tracking system to know what you own. This prevents duplicate purchases and helps you find games quickly.

Cartridge Contacts

Use isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and a cotton swab to clean the cartridge contacts. Gently rub until they're shiny. Never use water or harsh chemicals. This fixes most "game won't load" issues.

Labels

Clean labels with a slightly damp cloth, being careful not to damage them. Never use alcohol on labels—it can remove the print. For stubborn marks, use a soft eraser gently.

Console Maintenance

Clean your SNES cartridge slot with compressed air. If games won't load, the slot contacts may need cleaning. Use a cleaning kit or isopropyl alcohol on a soft cloth wrapped around a credit card.

Set Goals

Decide what you want to collect: full set, specific genres, favorite games, or budget-friendly titles. Having clear goals prevents impulse buys and helps you stay on budget.

Track Your Collection

Use a spreadsheet or collection tracking app to know what you own. This prevents duplicate purchases and helps you identify gaps in your collection.

Research Before Buying

Research prices, check multiple sellers, read reviews, and verify authenticity before buying expensive games. Don't rush—good deals come to those who wait.

Network with Other Collectors

Join forums, Facebook groups, and local meetups. Other collectors can help you find deals, authenticate games, and share knowledge. The community is valuable.