Grading and sealing console games with the Video Game Authority (WATA) can be a highly controversial topic, with both strong arguments for and against the practice. On one hand, grading games can provide a sense of authenticity and value to collectors, as it can confirm the rarity and condition of a particular game. On the other hand, however, grading can also be prone to fraud and can have negative psychological effects on collectors and gamers.

One major argument in favor of grading and sealing console games is that it can provide a sense of authenticity and value to collectors. By grading games, collectors can be assured that their game is genuine and has been evaluated by a professional organization for condition. This can be especially important for rare or valuable games, which can command high prices on the collectors’ market. However, even relatively common games can see inflated pricing such as the classic example of Super Mario Bros for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). A “9.8” graded copy of this very common NES game from the mid 80’s made headlines in late 2021 selling for a record 2 Million US Dollars causing many collectors to scratch their collective heads.

However, the practice of grading games is not without its flaws. One major concern is the potential for fraud. Some collectors may attempt to pass off counterfeit or altered games as genuine in order to obtain a higher grade and, in turn, a higher price. This can be difficult to detect, as even “experts” may not always be able to spot a fake game. This can lead to collectors paying exorbitant amounts of money for games that are not authentic, which can be a major disappointment and financial loss.

Fraud can also occur within the grading process itself. There have been instances where individuals or companies have bribed or otherwise influenced WATA graders in order to obtain higher grades for their games as well as WATA employees allegedly selling their own graded games at really high prices which is apparently against WATA’s policies. This undermines the integrity of the grading process and can lead to a lack of trust among collectors.

Another issue with grading console games is the psychological aspect of collecting. For some collectors, the pursuit of the “perfect” game can become all-consuming. This can lead to an unhealthy focus on grades and rarity, rather than on the enjoyment of playing the games themselves. Collectors may become obsessed with obtaining the highest possible grades for their games, leading to a never-ending cycle of buying and grading. This can be a major drain on both time and finances, and can take the fun out of collecting.

Additionally, grading and sealing console games can also create a hierarchy among collectors, with those who own graded games often viewed as more “serious” collectors. This can create a divide among collectors, with those who do not own graded games feeling like they are not part of the “elite” group. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and exclusion, which can be harmful to both individuals and the collecting community as a whole.

Inflation of prices for relatively common games can also be a major issue in the collecting community. When a game is initially released, it may be priced at a certain level due to production costs and market demand. However, as the game becomes rarer and harder to find, its price can increase significantly on the secondary market. This can be especially true for popular or highly sought-after games. While this can be frustrating for collectors who missed out on the initial release and are now looking to purchase the game, it can also lead to speculation and hoarding, as individuals try to take advantage of the inflated prices.

Just this week, a console game enthusiast and vlogger Madlittlepixel reported on a reproduction copy of Castlevania Rondo of Blood for the PCEngine which was graded by WATA listed on eBay for several thousand dollars. The copy, sealed in a WATA graded case is clearly a PCEWorks reproduction and yet WATA still graded it as a legitimate copy. This seems like a pretty big error on WATA’s part and perhaps their practices should be evaluated. Additionally, the eBay seller sent a rudimentary “legal-eese” email to the vlogger demanding he remove all evidence of his defamation and libel from the Internet regarding the copy of  Castlevania Rondo of Blood listed on eBay or face legal action. Rightly so, the vlogger refused and the content continues for consumption. With light investigation, the same seller is selling other PCEWorks PCEngine reproductions as originals for over inflated prices in their eBay store. One of the games clearly has the PCEWorks logo on the disc.

Overall, while grading and sealing console games with WATA can provide a sense of authenticity and value to collectors, it is not without its drawbacks. The potential for fraud, both in the grading process and in the selling of games, and the negative psychological effects of collecting can be major concerns. Can we trust WATA after this? Did we ever trust WATA? WATA mess.

The popular and enduring Final Fantasy series of role-playing games has won the hearts of players all across the world. The series is renowned for its intricate plotlines, endearing characters, and cutting-edge gaming elements. Nevertheless, it appears that Final Fantasy is never truly “final,” despite the name. Whenever does Final Fantasy end?

Since the 1987 debut of the first Final Fantasy game, the franchise has produced a large number of prequels, spin-offs, and remakes. Every new game in the series has added to the general mythology while also introducing fresh characters, settings, and gameplay mechanics. Due to the series’ popularity, a multimedia franchise that features anime, movies, and other items has been developed.

The query, Is Final Fantasy ever final, still stands. The fact that each new game in the Final Fantasy series offers a stand-alone story is one of the reasons it has survived for so long. While several themes and characters have continued from one game to the next, it is not necessary to experience the series’ earlier titles in order to appreciate the new games. This enables the creators to continuously innovate and provide fresh concepts, keeping the series engaging for viewers.

The way that the Final Fantasy series has developed throughout the years is another element that has contributed to its continuing popularity. Although later iterations of the Final Fantasy series have included aspects of action, strategy, and even multiplayer gameplay, the original titles were essentially turn-based role-playing games. This variety has made the series appealing to a variety of players and kept things interesting for devoted fans.

The fact that Japanese culture is incorporated into the Final Fantasy series is one of its most intriguing features. Japanese mythology, folklore, and religion have always had a significant effect on the series, and many of the characters, settings, and creatures are based on Japanese cultural practices.

The kappa and the tengu, for instance, are two mythical beings that the series includes that are based on Japanese yokai. The characters in the anime frequently take their names and appearance cues from Japanese folklore and stories, while also being heavily influenced by Japanese mythology.

In addition to the mythological components, the series features a variety of Japanese-specific cultural allusions and themes. The idea of honor and responsibility is one such instance. This idea is frequently portrayed in the series through the interactions between the main characters and their allies. The value of honor and duty is a recurring motif in many Japanese cultural practices, and it gives the storylines in the series depth and complexity.

The emphasis on aesthetics and beauty is another characteristic of Japanese culture that is prevalent in the Final Fantasy series. Many of the places and characters in the series, which is renowned for its beautiful artwork and design, are influenced by traditional Japanese art and architecture. The series’ vivid colors, minute details, and symbolic iconography all contribute to its aesthetically appealing and engaging environment.

Japanese culture has always had a big impact on the Final Fantasy series. The series is a celebration of the rich cultural traditions of Japan, from its themes and aesthetics to its roots in Japanese mythology and folklore. Whenever does Final Fantasy end? The series is an enduring classic that will never truly be “finished” since with each new release, it develops and offers players new experiences.

Retro video games have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, leading to an increase in demand for vintage consoles and games, particularly in Japan where many of these products were originally released. However, there is a growing concern that the supply of these retro games may be depleted due to the increasing popularity of online auctions and the use of proxy services by foreign collectors. Is retro game stock depleting in Japan?

Online auction sites like Yahoo! Auctions Japan have made it easier for collectors to bid on and purchase rare and hard-to-find items from anywhere in the world, leading to a surge in demand for retro games and consoles, particularly from foreign collectors raising the question is retro game stock depleting in Japan? This trend is exacerbated by the use of proxy services, which allow foreign collectors to purchase items from online auctions and other retailers in Japan, even if they do not have a Japanese shipping address.

The depletion of retro game stock in Japan is a concern not only for collectors, but also for the preservation of video game history. Many of these vintage games and consoles are no longer being produced, making them irreplaceable once they are gone.

Japanese collectors in Japan also have their own set of concerns regarding the depletion of retro game stock. The increasing competition for these items from foreign collectors may make it more difficult and costly for them to obtain the games and consoles they are seeking. In addition, the use of proxy services by foreign collectors may make it harder for Japanese collectors to gauge the true value of an item, as the prices paid by foreign collectors may be artificially inflated due to the additional cost of using a proxy service.

In conclusion, the demand for retro games and consoles in Japan is being strained by the rising popularity of online auctions and the usage of proxy services by international collectors. Japanese collectors in the nation are concerned about this tendency because it could affect the preservation of video game history.

Proxy services like Buyee, Sendico, Zen Market, and Jauce offer a convenient way for individuals to purchase items from online retailers and auction sites in Japan, even if they do not have a local shipping address. These services act as a middleman, allowing users to bid on and purchase items from sites like Yahoo! Auctions Japan and Rakuten, and then have the items shipped to a location of their choosing.

One of the main benefits of using a proxy service to purchase items from Japan is the ability to access a wider range of products. Many online retailers and auction sites only ship within their own country, making it difficult for individuals living outside of Japan to purchase items from these sites. By using a proxy service, users can bypass these restrictions and purchase items from any site that ships to Japan.

The chance to benefit from cheaper rates is another benefit of proxy services. When compared to equivalent products sold in other countries, commodities on Japanese websites occasionally may be less expensive. By using a proxy service, users can benefit from these lower pricing and possibly save money when making purchases directly from Japan.

However, using proxy services to buy goods from Japan has certain disadvantages as well. The extra expense is one of the biggest disadvantages. Proxy services frequently demand a fee, which considerably raises the price of an item. Additionally, it might be expensive to export goods from Japan, especially if they are sent by air.

Sea mail is a much slower but far less expensive alternative to transporting goods by air. The drawback of using sea mail is that, depending on the destination, it may take many weeks or even months for the packages to arrive directly from Japan via proxy service. For customers who require their products earlier, this might not be the best choice.

Even those without a Japanese delivery address can buy goods from online shops and auction sites in Japan with the help of proxy services like Buyee, Sendico, Zen Market, and Jauce. These services have advantages, but they also have disadvantages, such as extra expenses and the possibility of pricey shipment. Before using a proxy service to buy something from Japan, users should examine the benefits and drawbacks, as well as their shipping alternatives.