Educational Guide + AI Tool

How to Check Video Game Condition
Before Grading

Master the 5-step checklist pros use to evaluate sealed games. See exactly what graders look for—then use AI to spot what you missed.

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The Professional 5-Step Checklist

This is exactly what CGC graders evaluate. Master these 5 components to predict your grades with confidence.

1

Seal Integrity

Check for microscopic separation, edge lifting, or resealing indicators. This is the #1 factor graders examine.

H-seam alignment and thickness
Y-fold tightness and consistency
Edge adhesion (no lifting or gaps)
Seal clarity (no cloudiness or residue)
2

Case Clarity

Assess plastic condition, yellowing, scratches, and overall transparency. Clear cases grade higher.

UV yellowing or discoloration
Surface scratches and scuffs
Plastic cloudiness or fogging
Stress marks or cracks
3

Insert Positioning

Verify cover art alignment, centering, and condition. Shifted or damaged inserts hurt grades significantly.

Centering within the case
Print quality and color fade
Water damage or staining
Tears or edge wear on insert
4

Edge Condition

Examine all corners and edges for wear, dings, or crushing. Mint edges are critical for high grades.

Corner dings or crushing
Edge wear along seams
Shelf wear on top/bottom
Impact damage or dents
5

Authenticity Markers

Identify legitimate factory seals, proper shrink wrap type, and correct packaging for the game's era and region.

Factory seal characteristics
Correct shrink wrap type for era
Region-appropriate packaging
Security labels (if applicable)

Let AI Do the Heavy Lifting

Now that you know what to look for, use our AI to catch what your eyes can't see. 30-second analysis reveals microscopic flaws.

Analyze Your Game Now

Why Smart Collectors Use GameMintAI

Combine professional knowledge with AI precision for perfect evaluation.

Learn What Graders Actually Look For

Component-by-component breakdown shows you exactly how CGC evaluates sealed games. Understand seal integrity, case clarity, insert positioning, and wear patterns before graders ever see your game.

Catch Flaws Your Eyes Miss

Our 5-photo AI analysis detects microscopic seal separation, case yellowing, and edge wear that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. See potential issues in seconds, not after paying $150 in grading fees.

Evaluate Your Collection Like a Professional

Build grading expertise while analyzing. Every report teaches you what separates a 9.0 from a 9.6. Train your eye once, apply that knowledge to every game you own.

Collectors Who Learned Fast

“After analyzing 20 games, I now understand what actually matters for grading. I'm making better buying decisions because I know what to look for.”

Samantha L.

Investment Collector

“The component breakdown is incredibly educational. I learned more from GameMintAI in one afternoon than from months of reading grading forums.”

Marcus T.

Retro Game Collector

“I thought I knew what graders looked for until I saw the AI analysis. It caught seal issues I would have never noticed on my own.”

David R.

WATA/CGC Collector

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