Why Resealing Exists
The significant price premium that sealed games command creates a financial incentive for dishonest sellers to reseal opened games and pass them off as factory sealed. As collecting has grown and prices have risen, resealing techniques have become more sophisticated. Understanding the common methods and telltale signs helps protect both your wallet and your collection.
Common Resealing Methods
The most basic reseals use standard shrink wrap machines similar to those used for gift baskets or retail products. These produce wrapping that is often looser and less uniform than factory seals. More sophisticated reseals use better equipment and may closely mimic factory wraps. Some resealers even reproduce security stickers, though these reproductions often differ in material quality, print resolution, or adhesive type.
Telltale Signs of Resealing
Look for these indicators: the wrap may feel different in texture or thickness compared to known factory seals; heat shrink marks may be irregular or in unusual locations; the seam lines may be wider, uneven, or positioned differently than factory standards; security stickers may show signs of reprinting such as color differences or misalignment; the contents may shift more than expected within the wrap; and there may be visible adhesive residue or discoloration at the seal points.
Protecting Yourself
The best protection against reseals is knowledge and caution. Buy from reputable sellers with established track records. Request multiple detailed photos of the seal before purchasing. Compare the seal to known authentic examples. For high-value purchases, insist on professional grading or at minimum, buy games that have already been professionally authenticated. The small cost of authentication is negligible compared to the potential loss from purchasing a resealed game.
