What does “manual included” mean?

What it means

"Manual included" signifies that the original, manufacturer-supplied instruction booklet or guide accompanies the video game cartridge or disc. This is standard terminology in the collecting niche, equivalent to stating the item is "complete." It is not merely a digital download or a modern reprint. The manual is an original artifact tied to the specific release of the game. Its presence elevates the item from a "loose" copy (game only) to a "Complete in Box" (CIB) or "Complete in Manual" (CIM) listing, depending on whether the original packaging is also present.

What it does to price

The inclusion of the original manual provides a measurable price uplift. A CIB copy, which includes the manual and original box, typically fetches 1.5x to 3x the price of a loose copy, depending on the game's rarity and demand. A manual alone, if the box is damaged or missing, can still add 15% to 30% to the base price of the game. Factors pushing the price up include pristine manual condition (no creasing, yellowing, or missing pages). Factors pushing the price down include heavy wear, water damage, or missing inserts from the manual itself. For a mid-tier, sought-after title, the difference between a loose copy and a CIB copy can easily be $20 to $50.

How to spot it

Verification requires inspecting the physical item. Look for the specific publisher's logo, copyright dates, and game title printed on the manual's cover or first page. For older titles, check the paper stock quality; modern reprints often use cheaper, glossy paper. Sellers should provide clear, high-resolution photos of the manual's spine and the interior pages, not just the cover. A common mistake is sellers including a modern, unofficial fan guide and listing it as the original manual. Always confirm the manual matches the game's release year.

Buying smart

Paying a premium for a manual is justified when the game is highly sought after, rare, or when the buyer intends to complete a definitive collection. If the game is common and the manual is heavily damaged, the premium is not worth the investment. A fair deal for a CIB copy should reflect the market average for the game's condition, with the manual adding a predictable, moderate premium (e.g., 20-40% over the loose price). If the seller demands a price that is double the established market rate for a loose copy without significant condition upgrades, the premium is likely inflated.

Selling smart

Proving the manual's inclusion is the single most effective way to command a higher price. The listing title must explicitly state "CIB" or "Manual Included." The primary photo must be a clear, flat-lay shot of the manual itself, positioned next to the game. Do not just show the game case; show the manual. This single piece of evidence validates the higher price point. Describing the manual's condition (e.g., "Near Mint, no folds") directly translates to buyer confidence and higher offers.