What does “instruction booklet” mean?

What it means

The instruction booklet, or manual, is the printed guide supplied with a video game cartridge or disc. It contains operational details, system requirements, and supplementary material such as character bios or cheat codes. In the collecting sphere, it is a core component of a Complete In Box (CIB) presentation. Its presence verifies the package's original retail state. The term is straightforward; there is no specialized jargon beyond the classification of the item itself.

What it does to price

The inclusion of the original, undamaged instruction booklet significantly elevates value. A loose copy of a game might sell for \$20; the same game in CIB condition, including the manual, typically commands 1.5x to 3x that price, depending on rarity. Minor damage—creases, light spine wear—can reduce the premium by 20-30%. Conversely, a booklet with missing pages or heavy water damage can cause the price to drop closer to that of a loose copy, even if the game itself is mint. For a common title, a pristine manual might add \$5 to \$15 over a bare cartridge.

How to spot it

Authenticity checks involve examining the print quality and paper stock against known examples of the game's release. Look for specific copyright dates and publisher logos printed on the inner sleeve or first page. Sellers should provide high-resolution photos of the spine and the first few pages. Common mistakes include sellers substituting a generic "guide" or a modern reprint for the original factory manual. Fakes are rare but usually involve poor print registration or incorrect paper texture. Always verify the manual matches the specific region code (NTSC-U/C, PAL, etc.) of the game cartridge.

Buying smart

Paying a premium for a manual is justified when the game is rare, highly sought after, or when the market demands CIB condition for maximum return. If the game is common and the manual is only slightly worn, the premium may not outweigh the cost of a loose copy. A fair deal involves the manual being present, intact, and showing only minor shelf wear. If the manual is heavily damaged but the game is extremely rare, the value calculation shifts toward the game itself, but the manual's condition still dictates the final price ceiling.

Selling smart

Listing the item as "CIB w/ Manual" or "Complete" immediately sets the expectation for a higher price tier. High-quality, well-lit photos showing the manual's condition—specifically the spine and any visible text—are mandatory. The single most effective descriptor is "Mint Manual" or "Pristine Condition." This terminology justifies the highest end of the pricing spectrum, signaling to serious buyers that the item is investment-grade, not just a used copy.