The Nintendo Switch has gained immense popularity, offering a diverse range of games for all types of players. However, this popularity has also led to an increase in counterfeit Nintendo Switch games and cartridges, posing a risk to your gaming experience.
To protect yourself from these fake switch games, it's essential to learn how to identify genuine products. By following our essential tips, you'll be equipped to spot counterfeit cartridges and safeguard your investments.
Let's explore the key indicators that will help you distinguish authentic Nintendo Switch games from their counterfeit counterparts!
The Table of Contents
Identifying Fake Switch Games
Below are some key indicators we've put together to help you spot counterfeit switch cartridges. These guidelines will help you spot any counterfeit Switch games:
- Check Serial Numbers and Barcodes: Always verify the serial numbers on both the front and back of the cartridge. They should match precisely. Any discrepancies could indicate a counterfeit product.
- Check the Numbers and Letters: Real Nintendo Switch cartridges have certain markings.
- Be Cautious of Display Cartridges: Watch out for cartridges being sold as if they are real games. Genuine cartridges should not have labels with the "KYOTO" identifier.
- Conduct the Bitter Taste Test: Surprising as it may sound, licking the cartridge can help.
By using these tips, you can improve your skills in spotting fake Nintendo Switch games and protect your gaming experience! Have you ever encountered a counterfeit Nintendo Switch game? Share your experience and how you spotted it in the comments below!
Key Indicators of Fake Nintendo Switch Games
Step 1: Examine Serial Numbers and Barcodes on Genuine Switch Games
- On the front label, you’ll see writing on the bottom of the label like: LA-H-AXB8A-USA. This is the model number of the game.
- On the back of the cartridge, in white lettering, there will be serial numbers. The third group of numbers [AXB8A] needs to be a part of the serial number on the back of the cartridge. This is a very key point that the front & back numbers should match.
- As GameStop has been hit hard with people trading in games with counterfeit labels. Scammers are buying cheap games and changing the labels to make them look like more valuable games.
Have you ever checked the serial numbers on your games? What have you noticed about their reliability? Share your thoughts with us!
Step 2: Examine Imprinted Numbers and Letters on Authentic Cartridges
- Just above the serial number on the back of the cartridge. Each genuine Nintendo Switch cartridge will have Nintendo HAC-008 & the letters CC imprinted into the cartridge.
- Fake Nintendo Switch games may lack or have altered serial numbers and barcodes. Check for errors or signs of tampering, such as smudged ink or mismatched fonts. It's important to remember that most counterfeit games are inexpensive and poorly made.
Step 3: Beware of Display Cartridges - Identifying Fake Switch Games
- What is happening here is that someone is selling these display cartridges as if they are real games. This could be either on purpose or by mistake. They appear to be real game cartridges, but the "KYOTO" label on the back is a key sign that the game is fake.
- When examining this Breath of the Wild Cartridge. (below) – You’ll notice the model #number on the front bottom of the game. [LA-H-AAAAA-JPG]
- On the back of the cartridge, the model number should match the front model number. On the back cartridge, the model number starts with the lettering [KYOTO], instead of starting with [AAAAA]. This is also very similar method you can you on How to tell if DS Game is fake or real.
Step 4: Spotting Counterfeit Switch Games - Licking the Cartridge
- Yes, you read that correctly, lick the cartridge and see if it tastes bitter.
A bittering agent (Denatonium Benzoate) has also been applied to the Nintendo Switch game cartridges. This bittering agent is non-toxic. Yes, it sounds gross, but at least you’ll know.
The Wrap Up:
Fake Nintendo Switch games pose a significant risk to both gamers and the overall integrity of the gaming community. By knowing the signs of what fake games look like, following the steps given, you can avoid buying fake Switch games by mistake.
Share Your Experiences:
Your experiences with counterfeit switch cartridges can serve as a valuable resource for fellow gamers. When you share your thoughts and experiences, you help others learn. You also help people understand why it's important to spot fake products.
We want to hear from you! What experiences have you had with counterfeit games, and how did you overcome them? Your insights can help fellow gamers!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a Nintendo Switch game is fake?
- To identify fake Switch games, check for mismatched serial numbers and barcodes. Inspect the quality of the label and compare it to a legitimate cartridge.
Are counterfeit Switch cartridges harmful to my console?
- The short answer is no, but they can cause gameplay issues or glitches. In some rare cases, using counterfeit cartridges has been reported to corrupt saved data.
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