Collector & Reseller Glossary

What the jargon actually means — and what it does to resale value. 3,212 terms across 12 categories.

301 terms in Video Games · page 2 of 6

1. emulatorVideo Games
   An emulator is software that allows a computer or device to imitate the hardware and operating system of another system, such as an old console like the Nintendo 64 or PlayStation 1. For resellers and collectors, underst
2. emulator compatibilityVideo Games
   This refers to the ability of a software program, known as an emulator, to accurately replicate the hardware and software environment of an original gaming console. For resellers and collectors, this is crucial because i
3. emulator compatibleVideo Games
   This describes a game or hardware that can run on an emulator, which is software designed to mimic the functionality of an original console or system. For resellers and collectors, this is a double-edged sword. On one ha
4. emuledVideo Games
   This term refers to running video game software on an emulator, which is a software program that mimics the hardware and operating system of a specific console or system. For resellers and collectors, the concept of emul
5. error cartridgeVideo Games
   An error cartridge is a video game cartridge that has a known, specific malfunction or bug that prevents it from running perfectly or at all on standard consoles. These issues can range from graphical glitches and save d
6. ESRVideo Games
   This abbreviation refers to the Entertainment Software Rating Board, the organization that assigns age and content ratings to video games in North America. These ratings, such as E for Everyone, T for Teen, M for Mature,
7. exclusiveVideo Games
   This term refers to a video game or piece of merchandise that is only available through a specific platform, console, or retailer. For collectors and resellers, exclusivity is a major driver of desirability and potential
8. exploitVideo Games
   In the context of video game collecting and reselling, an exploit refers to a specific, often unintended, mechanic or glitch within the game's code that allows players to achieve something they shouldn't be able to, such
9. factory sealed variantVideo Games
   This refers to a specific edition of a video game that comes in its original, unopened packaging directly from the manufacturer, but features a unique variation in its contents or presentation compared to the standard re
10. fair conditionVideo Games
    This term describes the overall state of a video game, encompassing its physical components like the case, manual, and disc or cartridge, as well as its functional integrity. Fair condition means the item is used and sho
11. fan madeVideo Games
    This refers to content, such as mods, ROM hacks, or custom merchandise, that has been created by enthusiastic fans rather than by the original copyright holder or official developer. For collectors and resellers, the aut
12. fingerprintsVideo Games
    This term refers to unique marks or blemishes present on the physical media, such as game cartridges or discs. These can range from light scuffs to deeper scratches, and they are a critical factor in determining the item
13. firmwareVideo Games
    This refers to the low-level, essential software embedded within a gaming console or peripheral device. It acts as the operating system that allows the hardware components to function correctly, managing everything from
14. first printVideo Games
    On junkpal, a first print video game refers to the absolute initial manufacturing batch, signifying rarity and commanding a significant price premium over later pressings.
15. flash cartridgeVideo Games
    These are small, often proprietary memory modules used in older handheld video game systems, most famously the Nintendo Game Boy. Unlike modern SD cards or internal storage, these cartridges held the game data and were p
16. frame rateVideo Games
    This refers to the number of individual images displayed on a screen per second, measured in frames per second (FPS). Higher frame rates result in smoother, more fluid motion during gameplay, which is a significant facto
17. functionalVideo Games
    This term refers to the operational status of a video game console or game cartridge. When a seller lists an item as functional, they are guaranteeing that the item powers on, the game loads, and all primary features wor
18. game boy advanceVideo Games
    This refers to the handheld gaming console manufactured by Nintendo, specifically the second generation of their portable systems. It was a highly popular device known for its extensive library of titles, including class
19. game collectingVideo Games
    This refers to the hobby of acquiring and preserving video games, which can range from casual ownership to serious, investment-grade collecting. For resellers and collectors, the term encompasses everything from original
20. game insertVideo Games
    This refers to the small, often cardboard or paper insert that comes inside the original packaging of a video game. It typically contains the game's manual, instruction booklet, or sometimes promotional artwork. For coll
21. game preservationVideo Games
    This refers to the practice of maintaining video games, their hardware, and associated media in a stable condition over time to prevent degradation. It encompasses everything from storing cartridges in climate-controlled
22. game save stateVideo Games
    A game save state is a snapshot of a video game's progress at a specific moment in time. Instead of manually saving your game, this feature captures the entire memory of the system—player position, inventory, current lev
23. gameboyVideo Games
    This refers to the original handheld gaming console manufactured by Nintendo, a classic piece of gaming hardware. For resellers and collectors, the specific model—such as the original grey unit or later color variants—si
24. gameplayVideo Games
    This refers to the actual interactive experience of playing a video game—how the mechanics work, the flow of the action, and the overall fun factor. For resellers and collectors, gameplay itself doesn't directly determin
25. gameplay feelVideo Games
    This refers to the subjective, tactile experience of interacting with a video game, encompassing how responsive the controls feel, the weight of the virtual actions, and the overall sense of immersion during gameplay. It
26. gameplay integrityVideo Games
    This refers to the condition of the game itself, ensuring that all intended features, functions, and content are present and operational as originally designed by the developer. For collectors and resellers, gameplay int
27. gameplay testVideo Games
    This refers to a thorough examination of a video game's functionality, mechanics, and overall user experience. For resellers and collectors, a documented gameplay test is crucial because it verifies that the item is full
28. GBAVideo Games
    This refers to the Game Boy Advance, a popular handheld gaming console from Nintendo. For resellers and collectors, identifying the specific model or regional variant of the GBA is crucial, as different versions can comm
29. genesisVideo Games
    This term refers to the original Nintendo Entertainment System, a highly influential and iconic console in the history of video gaming. For resellers and collectors, the Genesis, often used interchangeably with the Sega
30. genesis regionVideo Games
    This refers to the specific geographical market or version of a video game console or cartridge that was originally released in a particular region, such as North America, Europe, or Japan. Different regions often have u
31. glitchVideo Games
    A glitch refers to an unintended error or malfunction within a video game's programming or design. These can range from minor visual artifacts to significant gameplay exploits, such as clipping through walls or triggerin
32. grail findVideo Games
    A grail find refers to an extremely rare, highly sought-after item within a collection, often a specific video game, console, or accessory that is notoriously difficult to locate. These items possess significant cultural
33. greatest hitsVideo Games
    This term refers to a compilation or collection of a series' most popular, critically acclaimed, or commercially successful titles. For collectors and resellers, a "greatest hits" package signifies curated value, as it o
34. grey cardVideo Games
    This term refers to a video game or piece of media that lacks official, verifiable retail packaging or documentation, often implying it was acquired through unofficial channels. For collectors, the absence of a complete,
35. grey marketVideo Games
    This refers to goods, like video games, that are sold outside of the official distribution channels authorized by the manufacturer. These items might originate from different regions, be imported unofficially, or be sour
36. hackedVideo Games
    This term refers to video game software or media that has been modified, often illegally, to bypass original restrictions, such as unlocking content, removing playtime limits, or altering gameplay mechanics. For reseller
37. hacked cartridgeVideo Games
    This refers to a video game cartridge that has been modified or tampered with, often to bypass copy protection, unlock hidden features, or play unauthorized content. For collectors and resellers, the presence of a hacked
38. handheldVideo Games
    This refers to portable video game consoles or devices designed to be played on the go, rather than being tethered to a television or desktop setup. These devices range from classic Game Boy-style units to modern, powerf
39. hang tagVideo Games
    A hang tag is a small, attached piece of paper or cardstock, often found on new video game cases, controllers, or accessories. It typically contains essential product information such as the game title, edition details,
40. hangtagVideo Games
    A hangtag is a small, attached paper or plastic tag, often found on new video game retail packaging, accessories, or collectible merchandise. These tags typically contain essential product information, such as the game t
41. hardware emulationVideo Games
    This refers to the process of using software to mimic the functionality of original gaming consoles or arcade machines on modern computers or devices. Instead of needing the original, often fragile, physical hardware, em
42. hardware integrityVideo Games
    This refers to the physical condition and operational soundness of a video game console or peripheral. It encompasses everything from the casing and buttons to the internal components, ensuring the device functions as in
43. hardware modVideo Games
    A hardware mod refers to any physical alteration or modification made to the original console or game system itself, rather than just software changes. This can range from installing custom cooling systems and upgraded i
44. hardware restorationVideo Games
    This process involves the meticulous repair, cleaning, and refurbishment of video game consoles, controllers, and peripheral devices. It goes beyond simple cleaning; it often includes replacing worn-out components like c
45. hardware revisionVideo Games
    This refers to a specific, often subtle, change made to a piece of gaming console or peripheral hardware during its production run. Manufacturers frequently update components, change internal chipsets, or alter casing de
46. homebrewVideo Games
    This refers to video games that have been independently developed outside of major commercial studios. These titles are often created by hobbyists, programmers, or small groups using specialized tools for older or niche
47. hylian shieldVideo Games
    This refers to a specific, iconic in-game item from the Legend of Zelda series, often associated with Link's defensive capabilities. For collectors, its significance lies in its cultural weight within the gaming communit
48. import copyVideo Games
    This refers to a video game or piece of media that has been legally brought into a specific market from another country. It is distinct from a locally manufactured or distributed item. For collectors and resellers, the o
49. in-game assetVideo Games
    This refers to any digital item or content within a video game that a player can acquire, such as skins, cosmetic items, unique weapons, or virtual currency. For resellers and collectors, these assets are often traded or
50. indie gameVideo Games
    An independent game is a video game developed by a small team or individual developer outside of the major, established publishing houses. These titles often feature unique artistic styles, unconventional gameplay mechan
51. input lagVideo Games
    This refers to the delay between an action you perform on a controller or keyboard and when that action is registered on the screen. In gaming, even a small amount of lag can significantly degrade the player experience,
52. insert includedVideo Games
    This phrase indicates that the item being sold comes with the original packaging or supplementary materials that were part of the initial retail purchase. For collectors and resellers, the inclusion of the insert, manual
53. instruction bookletVideo Games
    This refers to the physical manual that came with a video game, often containing setup guides, cheat codes, and background lore. For collectors, the presence of the original instruction booklet is a significant factor in
54. investment pieceVideo Games
    This term refers to a video game or related merchandise that a collector believes will appreciate significantly in monetary value over time, similar to fine art or rare collectibles. It implies the item is not just for p
55. japan importVideo Games
    This term refers to video games, consoles, or accessories originally manufactured and sold in the Japanese market. These items are often distinct from their North American or European counterparts, featuring unique packa
56. joystickVideo Games
    This refers to a handheld or attached input device used to control movement and actions in video games, often featuring a stick or lever mechanism. For collectors and resellers, the specific model, manufacturer, and cond
57. joystick driftVideo Games
    This common issue refers to the unintended, continuous movement of a controller's analog stick even when the player is not touching it. It's caused by internal wear, dust accumulation, or component degradation within the
58. joystick wearVideo Games
    This refers to the physical deterioration of the input mechanisms on a controller or peripheral, such as worn-down thumbsticks, sticky buttons, or frayed cable connections. For collectors and resellers, the presence and
59. label conditionVideo Games
    This refers to the physical state and appearance of the game's case, box art, and any accompanying labels or stickers. For collectors, the condition of the label is crucial because it directly impacts the perceived compl
60. label damageVideo Games
    This refers to any physical wear, scuffing, peeling, or discoloration on the printed artwork or sticker affixed to a video game case, cartridge, or packaging. For collectors, the condition of the label is a primary indic