Understanding the Grading Scale
Video game grading typically uses either a numeric scale (commonly 1-100 or letter-based grades like A+, A, B+, etc.). On a numeric scale, grades above 90 represent games in excellent to near-perfect condition. These games show minimal wear and maintain the visual impact of a new product. The higher within this range, the fewer flaws present. A perfect 100 is virtually unheard of, as even factory-fresh games can have minor imperfections.
What a 90+ Grade Looks Like
A game graded 90 or higher will have sharp, intact corners with perhaps the slightest softening. The surfaces will be clean and vibrant with no significant scratches, stains, or discoloration. Labels will be well-aligned with minimal edge wear. Manuals will be clean and complete. Any flaws present will be subtle and require close inspection to notice. These are the kinds of games that make collectors take notice.
Grade Ranges and Their Meaning
While specific scales vary by grading service, the general tiers are consistent: grades below 60 indicate significant wear or damage; 60-69 represents fair condition with notable flaws; 70-79 indicates good condition with moderate wear; 80-89 represents very good to excellent condition; and 90-100 indicates outstanding to mint condition. Each point within these ranges reflects increasingly subtle differences in condition.
How Grades Affect Value
The relationship between grade and value is not linear -- it is exponential at the top end. The difference between an 85 and a 90 can represent a significant jump in market value, and the gap between a 95 and a 98 can be even more dramatic. This is because higher grades are exponentially rarer. Most surviving copies of any game will fall in the mid-range, while truly high-grade examples are exceptionally scarce.
