This is my full review of both grading companies since I decided to send to both of them for grading Starting off with VGA I sent my game at the end of May 2021, their website disclosed that there was a 8 Week backlog until they will reach your game. I send a game to (Halo 2 Collectors Edition). So the setup process is all manual, meaning that you have to download a PDF and fill it up yourself with all the data (the Game title, what services you want, etc...) then you need to either put your CC information and they will charge you or you put your Paypal email and they will send the invoice to you. In my case I chose the Express grading (which they say it takes 2 weeks to grade) + cleaning service. It took until September 1st for VGA to send me an Invoice of the order (the 8 week Backorder became 12) once I paid the invoice it took them less than an hour to confirm the payment and tell me that the grading process will start and will take 2 weeks. Exactly 1 month after the estimated grading date, I received the game graded. In the customer support side, I contacted them once (July 2021)and they answered the next day with the information I needed, so their customer support is effective and the information was truthful (they told me about the extra 4 week backlog due to received a lot of games) and it was exactly 4 week later that it happened. So, for VGA, the total time for a grading was 4 and a half months Now for WATA Games I sent 2 games to Wata on August 12th Their website makes it easy for game submission, you select the game you want to grade, what services and......what speed you want it graded**, from which I chose 15 WORKING DAYS turnaround... that 2 weeks later the website changed to 45** now remember that part because it's important for this process that happened. So when everything is selected you get an email with the paper you need to put in the box to send the games. A month and a half later (September 29th)they send an email that the games got graded and I receive an email about the games receiving a grade above 9.0 and will receive a Deep Badge and that I have to pay for that extra aside for the $8 dollars you already paid beforehand in the website as one of the services.... ok whatever, I approve it. A month passes by, no update, I decide to message them on October 20th since it has been graded and no update was given, on november 4th they finally answer that they have receive a largo volume of games. so the original 15 working days turned to 45 during the process. Fine, they are busy.,. Another month passes by, on December 2nd I decide to message them again as it has been 76 working days , almost double the time they said on their website, I got a vague response back with almost the same response as last time that they were busy blah blah blah.... Since the holidays we coming soon I decided to cut them some slack. Almost 2 months later, still no update, I decide to email them AGAIN on January 21st saying it was 113 working days, they responded 3 days later with the same cookie cutter answer as always saying they are busy blah blah blah, at that point it was Triple the amount of working days and with no updates As a last straw on April 3rd I decided to open a dispute with my bank for the payment of this service and explained to them that I paid for a service that the website clearly specifies a number of days (showed the bank the website and the false advertisement they had on it) and my bank decided to start a dispute with WATA....with my surprise that 2 days after my bank decided to start the dispute WATA magically emails me saying that the game will finally ship on the end of April I finally received my 2 graded games on May 2nd The 15 Working days that turned to 45 working days 2 weeks later ended up being 179 Working Days (that is excluding holidays) Total turnaround = 8 Months!!! Now that I gave you my review and are thinking of grading your sealed game do with this information what you want
Vga has always been classy. WATA has screwed the market by grading CIB copys. The world and its wife are sending in crap open games to grade and causing mad backlog and listing at mad prices 😂 In the past if you wanted graded game it was only a sealed copy you went vga.
Another reason to go with WATA: it's just plain easier to grade through them. I tried VGA and hated the whole experience. Meanwhile WATA submission is pretty painless and extremely transparent.
Yes, absolutely agree with you. Apparently VGA is finally upgrading their relic of a website so it's something I'm going to touch on in a future video!
Another reason is you can send an absolute garbage game in with holes in the plastic and molded...still perfect rating...they even have an auction house they know that will sell it for you...
Having wata being able to go to heritage does make it seem more appealing but I just can't get behind that ugly top bar even if it has extra info compared to vga. Great video keep 'em coming 👍
@@4KAnimeRecap I actually have a link to my collecting discord in the description if that's of interest to you! I do sell on eBay as well, but I don't have an affiliate link or anything (yet😏) My selection on eBay is quite slim at the moment, though haha.
Something I can’t find online is the process for sending a game to VGA. I sent some games to VGA and I feel silly not knowing if they’ve received my order or whether or not I completed the paperwork correctly. It’s definitely a trust/waiting game sending games to get graded, but reassurance from them would be nice. Would that be something you would be able to cover in a future video? Possibly how to send a game and the steps involved?
Tomorrow I have a WATA submission video going up and the VGA one will come soon haha! On my last VGA submission, it took them 3-4 weeks after delivery to finally invoice me/confirm they received it all. Both companies are experiencing major backlogs so it's a major waiting game for any kind of correspondence. Even if you made any mistakes on the paperwork, they will correct them for you or message once they finally begin reviewing your order/confirming it:)
I wrote a little disclaimer in the description below the video. I know that option exists, but it is hardly used by anyone and I can't recommend someone to use it. Many, and myself, prefer the ugly sideways orientation vs having the grade hidden on the side. It's all preference of course, but just my opinion on the 2D design!
Is it just me or is there a significant difference in clarity between the two cases? To me the wata cases look much clearer than VGA side by side in this video. I would lean towards wata just for presentation purposes due to transparency of the case.
What you are seeing is the VGA case is still inside of a decently thick Poly Bag which is affecting the clarity of the case. With the bag removed, they are comparable in presentation. I leave the bags on most games so I don't accidentally scratch the actual case when handling it, but I should have removed it for the video!
seriously though. And open up their submissions to ALL console games at bare minimum haha. albeit they are already mercilessly backlogged so I don't expect any progress on those other things!
So remember, it's a 15 *business day* service. I think it's taking 25-30 total days right now on that service. Bit of a delay on getting the game entered into the system, but then close to the actual 15 business day estimate.
Good info. I’ve never graded a game but right now WATA isn’t grading newer games/consoles. Their customer service told me that eventually they’ll get there but no clue when that will be
I have a few games I want to sent to WATA. Going to do that soon actually! Another informative video man! I’ve heard the differences before but not in the detail that you gave.
There's so much nuance with how each company grades that it will take awhile and some experience for you to really get it down! Definitely get your first submission under your belt though as that alone will teach you so much!
I’m planning on it. I have a few sealed Pokémon games I need to get graded. Definitely some great tips you had though! My boxes and seals are great so I’m thinking WATA.
Well yes Pokémon but they are Pokémon Pinball, Pokémon Pinball Ruby & Saphire and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Red Rescue Team all sealed and mint. Not the heavy hitters unfortunately although I do own those all CIB.
@@stevecraigretrogames haha ok ok, fair enough. But still, those titles have appreciated nicely due to the main games blowing up so much! I'd personally love a Pokemon Pinball, such a cool box that has the unique sizing if I remember correct!
Say my box and seal are...not great. Who would you go with? I’d say both are in “good” condition. The box is probably better than the seal. Thanks, this was very informative!
If both aren't in great shape, it would really come down to your preference. The resale market does favour WATA in most instances, if all other things don't matter to you.
@@GetTheGreg Yeah I was leaning towards Wata as well since I do prefer their labeling. However, I was talking about an N64 game, which unfortunately means the label will be "sideways" according to your video. Oh well, I still think that's the way to go. Just need to wait for this surge to die down first. Thanks again for the reply! Appreciate it!
@@GetTheGreg Thanks for the prompt response. I'm surprised Wata is leading the market because VGA have been dominating on ebay way before I ever saw any Wata graded games. I even saw UKG before Wata but looks like UKG is dead. Is there any reason why Heritage chose Wata over VGA or why not both? VGA cases and label definitely look more appealing.
There is SO much to go through for why WATA dominates the market and the whole WATA and heritage link haha. You can likely Google to find a good rundown of how everything came to be, but essentially WATA and heritage are closely linked - board members on both companies type of thing. WATA is owned by a very prominent collector who was is the scene for a very long time, and is backed by a lot of other prominent members which immediately gave them huge validity/prominence. And then a whole bunch of calculated moves and marketing later, and here we are. Now WATA is recognized as the leader and VGA did nothing to help strengthen their own footprint. They have a lot of catching up to do now...
WATA still, generally speaking, commands the highest resale premiums if you're looking to go that route. If it's just for personal, then go with whichever you stylistic enjoy more!👍
@@GetTheGreg Thank you for the reply, may I ask if you have a "how to spot a reseal" video. I'm investing in PSP games and having a hard time finding the real sealed versions vs the resealed jerks out there.
I just spent 100 bucks on a gamble to be honest. And plan on spending more money on the games console. I hate the feeling I may be buying resealed crap.
Hey Greg Great video man. I binged watched a few of your videos, had to sub and show some support man. Im a collector and a fellow TH-camr that is planning on sending some stuff out to get graded. I would really appreciate your opinion one of my new pickups and a game. In my last pickups video I picked up a Brand New Zelda WiiU and wanted to get it graded being that I believe VGA only grades consoles. I would really respect your opinion as someone who has used these services before and if it is worth sending in a console. I also have a GBC sealed copy of Zelda Oracle of Ages wich was mint until I dropped it before I got it in a protector and pushed in the corner a bit.. I almost had a heart attack, lol! I know you know how that feels or like when you cut open a package and cut the contents inside! But was also wondering if now that game would be dumb to get graded. Its the only flaw on the box. Great content man, keep up the great work! 😁👍
Hey dude! Reach out on my Instagram and send me a few pics about the specific items in question! I can at least provide you an estimate of what I think!
VGA is in the process of updating their website actually! Hopefully they can improve because I agree, WATA is WAY better at this point for website and ease of submission.
So both company only grade game case? I thought it rate how a video game play and everything. I see them on eBay so I don't get why those seal cases are imporant.
Yes, these companies are gauging the condition of the outer case and factory seal. If you send in a CIB, they will assess the case, manual, and disk/cart condition.
They do, yes, but they've only given it out like 10 times out of 40,000 games on the current population report haha. Sooooo, they do, but like, you won't ever get it😅
I really wanna get a couple of my games graded. They sit heavily protected inside boxes inside storage containers inside my closet. Waiting a year for my game to be graded isnt the issue. Do they guarantee that your games will get there and back to you? Have you ever had an issue with a lost game or have you ever sent them a pristine game and got your game back with a terrible grade because it was damaged in the shipping process on the way there?
I haven't had any issues like that (nor have I heard any horror stories like that) but the risk DOES exist. Obviously get your insurance on shipping and be sure to declare proper value with the grading companies, but yea, outside of it all, you still have to accept the risk that something COULD happen.
Hey Willy, have you ever used either company or sold any graded games yourself? Most people, unless grading very worn, common, or undesirable games, see returns that more than justify the cost of grading itself. No, it's not a guarantee, but saying the vast majority won't even cover the cost of grading isn't accurate. I encourage you to try it out yourself if you haven't already!
Oh for sure, I've seen the countless people talking about this. The vast majority without actual experience in both grading there own games and then selling them. People who screw this up don't understand "why" the graded counterparts might sell for more. People who think it is just some kind of money multiplier will be disappointed, yes. Certain titles in certain conditions should never be graded in hopes of making money. However, there is value in simply grading for personal enjoyment, and I recommend everyone try it for themselves if they are unsure. You don't HAVE to do it simply for money - although many do attempt to.
Quite frankly, most collectors are awful at appraising their games' condition and don't participate in the market where slight condition variances matter. Which is fine, but that's where much of the "graded premium" comes from. You personally don't care if your sealed game has some small rips or slight dents, but other people do. These same premiums exist across coins, cards, comics, etc. Just because you don't see inherent value in the appraisal system, doesn't mean others don't. You wouldn't discuss high-end coins with someone who doesn't participate in the market - the same can be said about the vast majority of video game collectors. They don't participate in the graded/sealed/high-end market (or even have accurate knowledge of it) so why would their opinion hold weight? With the hypothetical buyer who won't spend an extra $200 to have a perfect seal - that's fine, they aren't the target market anyhow. There are many instances where I won't pay the premium as well. If that happens with everyone, then yes, the graded example is overpriced and will likely need to be dropped to find a buyer. It still works the same as the ungraded market. Buyer's are the ones who decide if the market will exist or not. The sealed and/or graded video games are basically a separate market and hobby altogether. Some people get excited about finding a cartridge at their local game store. Others get excited when they finally acquire Ocarina of Time in VGA 95 condition.
And I don't think anything I say will change you mind about all of it, but just know that there are many people who simply grade their games and keep them within their collections with no intentions to sell. Don't let the people who purposely try to take advantage of the market ruin your overall perception of the sealed/graded collecting hobby
Weird question but I got a sealed Speed racer game for the wii for 50$ I never want to open since its a childhood art piece but is something of that stature worth getting graded ? super new to this :)
If it's a game that's sentimental and matters to you, I'd for sure go the grading route for your own personal enjoyment. On a purely economic view, it's probably not worth it, no. Unless speed racer Wii is an expensive game already unbeknownst to me haha.
@@GetTheGreg wow. I had no idea, to be honest as a new collector the VGA 100$ price tag just completely made me ignore them. I didn't look into them at all, I don't even think I've been on their website. If they had the same 29$ price tag I would have definitely given them a look.
Yea I'm pretty sure they have an option to have a case that allows for the plastic hangtab to fit inside. They could probably also remove it with the "heavy cleaning" option
Hey man! eBay, of course. And then you have other auction companies to keep an eye on like Heritage auctions Goldin auctions Certified Link Comic connect Hakes auctions PWCC (sometimes)
Preferring WATA. The VGA homepage and the process for grading is absolutely crap in my opinion. Also WATA is a Little more transparent at how they grade the Games. There a lot more information for the grading scales at wata
@Kyle Reese Incel From The Future I agree fully with this haha. Some of the super high grades show blatant wear... That whole section could use a redo/update.
@Kyle Reese Incel From The Future the looking of the cases depends on everyones one opinion. i personally do like the wata displays more than the vga cases. in my opinion wata has no disadvantage opposite to vga, but its just my personal opinion
@Kyle Reese Incel From The Future it’s just fine if that is your opinion. For me vga and also ukg are just some unlovely Acryl cases. The look exactly the same as normal Acryl cases with some printed information. In my opinion wata just got a more nice and more lovely design. Luckily we can choose the system, which we like better, so it’s just fine. Btw is saw many vga cases cracked after hitting the floor once.Wata doesn’t. So i guess wata is actually harder to break than vga is. Saw some vga cases which were cracked during shipping, so i really do not guess that vga is more stable than wata 😂 In fact of protecting the game inside of the grading case, there is waaaay more security at WATA than at VGA
@@GetTheGreg I went to the Wata site and they have a lot of add on services that don't understand. So all info on the Wata grading label is standard for the price you pay?
No worries man! If you go to my videos I have a "1st time WATA guide" and I go over everything. But yes, all of the info on the label is standard at no additional cost
i think grading is stupid. Video Games meant to be played. Only games you should sent to grading, is if you want to display it, and its like top 10 of all time, also extra copy. Most "Graders" like 99% is just to get more profit out of it to sell. But thanks for video, if i ever find perfect/brand new sealed copy of one of my favorite games, i sent it to Wata. =)
It's more important to understand why people are willing to pay more for the graded copy of the game regardless if you agree with it or not. You can utilize grading to your advantage if you know what you're doing, and then cycle that money back into games you would enjoy way more! Of course, that's only if you want to engage in the hobby in that way haha. Everyone enjoys it differently Thanks for checking out the video man!
@@GetTheGreg ;p i think i came off little harsh earlier comment, i totally agree with important of understanding of graded copy. My only issue with it, if it a game you love very much, the most justifying to do is playing it, also i dont think video games should be hitting price ranges over $1000, developers/publishers/people holding license should make them more available to the public. Main reason i always be pro-pirate (unless you selling copies/pirated as real ones, than i highly dont agree with that), cause in the end they be ones preserving history, and giving access to people that would never otherwise be able to play the games. I totally think it a cool idea of getting extra goodies to get graded to cycle the money back into your collection. I usually just left them in the wild for someone else to find and experience finding awesome game in the wild, unless i knew it a game friend was looking for. =) i liked how very detailed/educational your video was.
Haha no worries! I didn't take it as harsh, just wanted to spin the conversation in a different direction😅 My appreciation of course always started with the playing aspect. As I age and time becomes more limited, my appreciation now has come from the preservation and acquiring of little trophies, really. Having favourite games in pristine condition that I can display and talk to people about has become just as fulfilling as the actual aspect of playing. Same with trading cards. I used to derive most of my pleasure from playing with them, now I get most from just looking at them haha. Thanks for sharing your perspective though! I want stuff like this in the comments for people to consider.
@@GetTheGreg With what going on with Sony, it defiantly becoming eye opener, for people who were pro digital. I am really worried, about some games in my collection that might not play correctly once store goes down, and unable to update/purchase.
New subscriber here! I really love you made a step by step for submiting game to Wata! My question is if I decided to cross over to Wata from VGA do I need to cracked the case myself or I can send it to them still inside VGA case. I just want them to be uniformed as I have more wata than vga. Thank you sir!
Most people, I have heard, just leave it inside of the VGA case since it serves as a protective casing for shipping anyway! WATA will then crack the VGA case for you👍
Those 85s can be very nice sometimes haha! I do think it is better to have the wrap and the box separated though so people have a better idea of "why" it got the grade it did
I'm not sure what "blackballed in the gaming community" might mean. I exist in the sealed/graded game community, as well as wider collecting communities. If there's anything you want to know about sealed and/or graded games, variants, etc. Just let me know. I specialize in early Nintendo. Regardless of how you now feel about it all, this community existed before the controversy, and will continue to exist after it.
@@GetTheGreg you exist in a community then that has been hopefully decimated by this report. When average yoohoo yard sale old ladies and alike now think that because a game is vintage or retro that its worth much more than what it actually is...it kills our community. Hopefully the word spreading of a moratorium or boycott of buying graded games...especially by wata or VGA from all collectors or persons will stop this lunacy. Having a graded nintendo championships game is one thing, but the appalling amount of games that are now being graded and sold to people and being hyped up online as how to make a quick buck has to stop. And it will. Wata and heritage will be known as a fraud and anyone who associates with it. Wata just went from being...a name to now being...blackballed. if you have a wata graded game, take it out of its case, the case is worth more than there name now
@@repomanzilla I would like nothing more than the hobby to be seen as legit and trustworthy (as much as it can be, there will always be something/someone trying to pump/manip). Now that this video is out and far more people know the facts of "how we got here", hopefully more conversation can start any actual wrongdoing can be met with charges/fines/whatever. WATAs name very well may become tarnished beyond repair. That of HA, as well. The hobby will still fully exist in that case. If prices come down, great, I'll be able to buy a few things again without going broke, which it sounds like you can agree with. But now that the trajectory is set and the headlines about expensive games are made, it will be a long time until we seen the public consciousness not holding any random video game like it's gold.
@@GetTheGreg I can agree with some of what you said. But I disagree with it will be a long time...with the attention this is getting I feel I hope I pray that its soon. Your community is safe with games like nintendo championships signed copies, low print runs, rare undersold games, earthbounds etc...mine is not. With this flagrant scamming being perpetuated by businesses such as wata, VGA, heritage etc it makes large collectors like myself or even small collectors or first timers pay the price. We dont care the first bit about a graded game....but that doesnt mean the garage sale lady we get our games from doesnt know about the famous million dollar mario.....that's a fraud....then they say hey last week we sold you this game for 5 bucks....well now its 50....sorry that's what the graders and the community says its worth....so yeah it screws us big time. I truly hope that every game that's been graded especially by wata or VGA, drops I value 95percent. It's going to happen, maybe not today maybe not tomorrow but soon....and us collectors that got stomped will gladly buy that 1.5 million dollar mario....for $5
We can all agree there's no better rush than a good garage sale find, but I'm not sure we will ever reach a period where it's generally "worthwhile" to hunt again. Hell, I had to stop doing that years ago once the first big boom happened (maybe 2016ish?) I remember local carts of Mario Kart 64 had gotten to $70CAD at my game shop (I collect everything, not just sealed). A lot of emphasis goes to the sealed and graded market for causing blanket price increases across the board, but this kind of price inflation has been seen before, and when graded games weren't making any headlines. As much as I would love new people to be able to go out and get a snag on some cool games, most will be stuck paying "retail" to enter the hobby. I don't deny that there are trickle over effects into some CIB games, but I honestly feel the cart market, for the most part, will act independently from almost any sealed/graded noise. I'm not sure I've seen any high correlation between sealed selling high and CIB rising in the disk based markets. Tomb Raider and FF7 black label are still very affordable CIB yet both having 100k sealed sales. Anyway, just some more thoughts on the matter.
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Super helpful to see both of the 2 cases side by side like that
This is my full review of both grading companies since I decided to send to both of them for grading
Starting off with VGA I sent my game at the end of May 2021, their website disclosed that there was a 8 Week backlog until they will reach your game. I send a game to (Halo 2 Collectors Edition). So the setup process is all manual, meaning that you have to download a PDF and fill it up yourself with all the data (the Game title, what services you want, etc...) then you need to either put your CC information and they will charge you or you put your Paypal email and they will send the invoice to you. In my case I chose the Express grading (which they say it takes 2 weeks to grade) + cleaning service.
It took until September 1st for VGA to send me an Invoice of the order (the 8 week Backorder became 12) once I paid the invoice it took them less than an hour to confirm the payment and tell me that the grading process will start and will take 2 weeks. Exactly 1 month after the estimated grading date, I received the game graded.
In the customer support side, I contacted them once (July 2021)and they answered the next day with the information I needed, so their customer support is effective and the information was truthful (they told me about the extra 4 week backlog due to received a lot of games) and it was exactly 4 week later that it happened.
So, for VGA, the total time for a grading was 4 and a half months
Now for WATA Games
I sent 2 games to Wata on August 12th
Their website makes it easy for game submission, you select the game you want to grade, what services and......what speed you want it graded**, from which I chose 15 WORKING DAYS turnaround... that 2 weeks later the website changed to 45** now remember that part because it's important for this process that happened. So when everything is selected you get an email with the paper you need to put in the box to send the games.
A month and a half later (September 29th)they send an email that the games got graded and I receive an email about the games receiving a grade above 9.0 and will receive a Deep Badge and that I have to pay for that extra aside for the $8 dollars you already paid beforehand in the website as one of the services.... ok whatever, I approve it.
A month passes by, no update, I decide to message them on October 20th since it has been graded and no update was given, on november 4th they finally answer that they have receive a largo volume of games. so the original 15 working days turned to 45 during the process. Fine, they are busy.,.
Another month passes by, on December 2nd I decide to message them again as it has been 76 working days , almost double the time they said on their website, I got a vague response back with almost the same response as last time that they were busy blah blah blah....
Since the holidays we coming soon I decided to cut them some slack.
Almost 2 months later, still no update, I decide to email them AGAIN on January 21st saying it was 113 working days, they responded 3 days later with the same cookie cutter answer as always saying they are busy blah blah blah, at that point it was Triple the amount of working days and with no updates
As a last straw on April 3rd I decided to open a dispute with my bank for the payment of this service and explained to them that I paid for a service that the website clearly specifies a number of days (showed the bank the website and the false advertisement they had on it) and my bank decided to start a dispute with WATA....with my surprise that 2 days after my bank decided to start the dispute WATA magically emails me saying that the game will finally ship on the end of April
I finally received my 2 graded games on May 2nd
The 15 Working days that turned to 45 working days 2 weeks later ended up being 179 Working Days (that is excluding holidays)
Total turnaround = 8 Months!!!
Now that I gave you my review and are thinking of grading your sealed game do with this information what you want
Vga has always been classy. WATA has screwed the market by grading CIB copys. The world and its wife are sending in crap open games to grade and causing mad backlog and listing at mad prices 😂
In the past if you wanted graded game it was only a sealed copy you went vga.
WATA-R U WAITING FOR?
Another reason to go with WATA: it's just plain easier to grade through them. I tried VGA and hated the whole experience. Meanwhile WATA submission is pretty painless and extremely transparent.
Yes, absolutely agree with you. Apparently VGA is finally upgrading their relic of a website so it's something I'm going to touch on in a future video!
@@GetTheGreg oh that’s wonderful. Maybe I’ll finally use their services more haha
hmmmmm
Another reason is you can send an absolute garbage game in with holes in the plastic and molded...still perfect rating...they even have an auction house they know that will sell it for you...
Thanks for the info! Keep producing, it’s about to boom.
Thanks for checking it out!
Having wata being able to go to heritage does make it seem more appealing but I just can't get behind that ugly top bar even if it has extra info compared to vga. Great video keep 'em coming 👍
Yea the cases are a bit point of contention for a lot of collectors. I'm happy most of my stuff is VGA!
Thank you for making this video, this clears up a lot especially with all these WATA games I've been seeing. Great video and love the music!
Hey no problem! Thanks for the support!
@@GetTheGreg Do you have a link or anything to like ebay and sell games as well?
@@4KAnimeRecap I actually have a link to my collecting discord in the description if that's of interest to you! I do sell on eBay as well, but I don't have an affiliate link or anything (yet😏)
My selection on eBay is quite slim at the moment, though haha.
@@GetTheGreg I'll check it out, thanks!
Well I think this choice might be easier after all the recent reports.
👀👀
Finally someone posted video of this !! thanks!
Absolutely! Hopefully it can help you make a decision!
I keep waiting for Greg's wolverine claws to snikt out. Nice job again!
ahah, you may be surprised to know, not the first time I've been compared to him;)
lmao, discount Hugh Jackman😂
such a helpful breakdown that I haven't seen anywhere else! Thanks!
Cheers!
Fantastic video, learned a lot of good info!
That's awesome to hear! Thanks for checking it out man!
Something I can’t find online is the process for sending a game to VGA. I sent some games to VGA and I feel silly not knowing if they’ve received my order or whether or not I completed the paperwork correctly. It’s definitely a trust/waiting game sending games to get graded, but reassurance from them would be nice. Would that be something you would be able to cover in a future video? Possibly how to send a game and the steps involved?
Tomorrow I have a WATA submission video going up and the VGA one will come soon haha!
On my last VGA submission, it took them 3-4 weeks after delivery to finally invoice me/confirm they received it all. Both companies are experiencing major backlogs so it's a major waiting game for any kind of correspondence.
Even if you made any mistakes on the paperwork, they will correct them for you or message once they finally begin reviewing your order/confirming it:)
You can get your snes/N64 games graded the way you are asking for during the submission process you have the option between 3D Banner or 2D Flat.
I wrote a little disclaimer in the description below the video. I know that option exists, but it is hardly used by anyone and I can't recommend someone to use it. Many, and myself, prefer the ugly sideways orientation vs having the grade hidden on the side. It's all preference of course, but just my opinion on the 2D design!
I just sent my first game to WATA for grading. Learning so much now lol
Good info! But I just can't get past how ugly the horizontal WATA case is- such an eyesore. 👀
Same! It's no bueno as far as I'm concerned!
Hey man thanks. You made this video simple for me to understand.
I'm glad you got value out of it!
Great video. I want to grade some brand new Pokémon games just for my own collection and this video helped.
How does CGC no factor into this, i like the look the best and they have a great history as a company?
This video is well before CGC was even announced haha. An update will have to be made!
Great video!! Thanks
Is it just me or is there a significant difference in clarity between the two cases? To me the wata cases look much clearer than VGA side by side in this video. I would lean towards wata just for presentation purposes due to transparency of the case.
What you are seeing is the VGA case is still inside of a decently thick Poly Bag which is affecting the clarity of the case. With the bag removed, they are comparable in presentation. I leave the bags on most games so I don't accidentally scratch the actual case when handling it, but I should have removed it for the video!
@@GetTheGreg I appreciate the feedback. Thank you
@@sigchiwab5520 No problem! Thanks for checking out the video and pointing that out in case anyone else was wondering!
To me it feels like the wata case is meant to showcase the wata name not the game.
Great video, good information.
Thanks man!👌
WATA need to finally get their shit together and produce their cases on the spot.
seriously though. And open up their submissions to ALL console games at bare minimum haha. albeit they are already mercilessly backlogged so I don't expect any progress on those other things!
How long do you think WATA would actually take for a 15 day service?
So remember, it's a 15 *business day* service. I think it's taking 25-30 total days right now on that service. Bit of a delay on getting the game entered into the system, but then close to the actual 15 business day estimate.
Good info. I’ve never graded a game but right now WATA isn’t grading newer games/consoles. Their customer service told me that eventually they’ll get there but no clue when that will be
Yea, that could well be 1 year+ from now as they are already pretty backlogged with business. You might be waiting awhile!
Hey thanks boss. I bought a sealed .hack infection and it had a hole in the seal but the actual case is in superb shape.
Sounds like a perfect WATA candidate to me!
I'm pretty strictly WATA these days but I really wish they would get a new case for horizontal games.....
likewise! I really don't want to send any horizontal games to them until they change that design!
I have a few games I want to sent to WATA. Going to do that soon actually! Another informative video man! I’ve heard the differences before but not in the detail that you gave.
There's so much nuance with how each company grades that it will take awhile and some experience for you to really get it down! Definitely get your first submission under your belt though as that alone will teach you so much!
I’m planning on it. I have a few sealed Pokémon games I need to get graded. Definitely some great tips you had though! My boxes and seals are great so I’m thinking WATA.
Sealed Pokemon you say!? You're sitting on a gold mine haha!
Well yes Pokémon but they are Pokémon Pinball, Pokémon Pinball Ruby & Saphire and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon Red Rescue Team all sealed and mint. Not the heavy hitters unfortunately although I do own those all CIB.
@@stevecraigretrogames haha ok ok, fair enough. But still, those titles have appreciated nicely due to the main games blowing up so much! I'd personally love a Pokemon Pinball, such a cool box that has the unique sizing if I remember correct!
If your going to grade horizontal with Wata just choose the 2D label
ahhhhhhhh, I honestly think I hate the 2D label even more 😬
Say my box and seal are...not great. Who would you go with? I’d say both are in “good” condition. The box is probably better than the seal. Thanks, this was very informative!
If both aren't in great shape, it would really come down to your preference. The resale market does favour WATA in most instances, if all other things don't matter to you.
@@GetTheGreg Yeah I was leaning towards Wata as well since I do prefer their labeling. However, I was talking about an N64 game, which unfortunately means the label will be "sideways" according to your video. Oh well, I still think that's the way to go. Just need to wait for this surge to die down first.
Thanks again for the reply! Appreciate it!
I prefer VGA myself
Does Wata case has an opening like VGA on the bottom back where water can get in?
No it doesn't. Although, I don't believe the case is airtight, nor would it be "waterproof". But it's definitely more secure/closed off overall
@@GetTheGreg Thanks for the prompt response. I'm surprised Wata is leading the market because VGA have been dominating on ebay way before I ever saw any Wata graded games. I even saw UKG before Wata but looks like UKG is dead. Is there any reason why Heritage chose Wata over VGA or why not both? VGA cases and label definitely look more appealing.
There is SO much to go through for why WATA dominates the market and the whole WATA and heritage link haha. You can likely Google to find a good rundown of how everything came to be, but essentially WATA and heritage are closely linked - board members on both companies type of thing.
WATA is owned by a very prominent collector who was is the scene for a very long time, and is backed by a lot of other prominent members which immediately gave them huge validity/prominence.
And then a whole bunch of calculated moves and marketing later, and here we are. Now WATA is recognized as the leader and VGA did nothing to help strengthen their own footprint. They have a lot of catching up to do now...
Im about to send in a game for the first time. Given what happened with Wata, is it still a good idea to go with them or should I go with VGA?
WATA still, generally speaking, commands the highest resale premiums if you're looking to go that route. If it's just for personal, then go with whichever you stylistic enjoy more!👍
@@GetTheGreg Thank you for the reply, may I ask if you have a "how to spot a reseal" video. I'm investing in PSP games and having a hard time finding the real sealed versions vs the resealed jerks out there.
I just spent 100 bucks on a gamble to be honest. And plan on spending more money on the games console. I hate the feeling I may be buying resealed crap.
Let me know when you need to dump some of your games before the price drops to nothing. Im looking for some Sega Games CIB. #WATAgate
Awesome video!
Thank you!✌️
Hey Greg Great video man. I binged watched a few of your videos, had to sub and show some support man. Im a collector and a fellow TH-camr that is planning on sending some stuff out to get graded. I would really appreciate your opinion one of my new pickups and a game. In my last pickups video I picked up a Brand New Zelda WiiU and wanted to get it graded being that I believe VGA only grades consoles. I would really respect your opinion as someone who has used these services before and if it is worth sending in a console. I also have a GBC sealed copy of Zelda Oracle of Ages wich was mint until I dropped it before I got it in a protector and pushed in the corner a bit.. I almost had a heart attack, lol! I know you know how that feels or like when you cut open a package and cut the contents inside! But was also wondering if now that game would be dumb to get graded. Its the only flaw on the box. Great content man, keep up the great work! 😁👍
Hey dude! Reach out on my Instagram and send me a few pics about the specific items in question! I can at least provide you an estimate of what I think!
Wata's website is wayyy better. I think vga is more popular but vga is complicated in rating
VGA is in the process of updating their website actually! Hopefully they can improve because I agree, WATA is WAY better at this point for website and ease of submission.
hindsight 20/20 with wata
So both company only grade game case? I thought it rate how a video game play and everything. I see them on eBay so I don't get why those seal cases are imporant.
Yes, these companies are gauging the condition of the outer case and factory seal.
If you send in a CIB, they will assess the case, manual, and disk/cart condition.
@@GetTheGreg I see. So how do they rate the disk or is it the same as the box score?
I LOVE The Phoenix Wright theme haha
I've been waiting for someone to comment on the music haha. No Phoenix Wright fans around here apparently!
Does WATA have a 10 grade? I've only ever seen 9.8 or lower.
They do, yes, but they've only given it out like 10 times out of 40,000 games on the current population report haha.
Sooooo, they do, but like, you won't ever get it😅
Very Nice Video Thanks!
I really wanna get a couple of my games graded. They sit heavily protected inside boxes inside storage containers inside my closet. Waiting a year for my game to be graded isnt the issue. Do they guarantee that your games will get there and back to you? Have you ever had an issue with a lost game or have you ever sent them a pristine game and got your game back with a terrible grade because it was damaged in the shipping process on the way there?
I haven't had any issues like that (nor have I heard any horror stories like that) but the risk DOES exist. Obviously get your insurance on shipping and be sure to declare proper value with the grading companies, but yea, outside of it all, you still have to accept the risk that something COULD happen.
Hey Willy, have you ever used either company or sold any graded games yourself? Most people, unless grading very worn, common, or undesirable games, see returns that more than justify the cost of grading itself. No, it's not a guarantee, but saying the vast majority won't even cover the cost of grading isn't accurate.
I encourage you to try it out yourself if you haven't already!
Oh for sure, I've seen the countless people talking about this. The vast majority without actual experience in both grading there own games and then selling them.
People who screw this up don't understand "why" the graded counterparts might sell for more. People who think it is just some kind of money multiplier will be disappointed, yes.
Certain titles in certain conditions should never be graded in hopes of making money.
However, there is value in simply grading for personal enjoyment, and I recommend everyone try it for themselves if they are unsure. You don't HAVE to do it simply for money - although many do attempt to.
Quite frankly, most collectors are awful at appraising their games' condition and don't participate in the market where slight condition variances matter. Which is fine, but that's where much of the "graded premium" comes from. You personally don't care if your sealed game has some small rips or slight dents, but other people do. These same premiums exist across coins, cards, comics, etc. Just because you don't see inherent value in the appraisal system, doesn't mean others don't. You wouldn't discuss high-end coins with someone who doesn't participate in the market - the same can be said about the vast majority of video game collectors. They don't participate in the graded/sealed/high-end market (or even have accurate knowledge of it) so why would their opinion hold weight?
With the hypothetical buyer who won't spend an extra $200 to have a perfect seal - that's fine, they aren't the target market anyhow. There are many instances where I won't pay the premium as well. If that happens with everyone, then yes, the graded example is overpriced and will likely need to be dropped to find a buyer. It still works the same as the ungraded market. Buyer's are the ones who decide if the market will exist or not.
The sealed and/or graded video games are basically a separate market and hobby altogether. Some people get excited about finding a cartridge at their local game store. Others get excited when they finally acquire Ocarina of Time in VGA 95 condition.
And I don't think anything I say will change you mind about all of it, but just know that there are many people who simply grade their games and keep them within their collections with no intentions to sell. Don't let the people who purposely try to take advantage of the market ruin your overall perception of the sealed/graded collecting hobby
Weird question but I got a sealed Speed racer game for the wii for 50$ I never want to open since its a childhood art piece but is something of that stature worth getting graded ?
super new to this :)
If it's a game that's sentimental and matters to you, I'd for sure go the grading route for your own personal enjoyment.
On a purely economic view, it's probably not worth it, no. Unless speed racer Wii is an expensive game already unbeknownst to me haha.
@@GetTheGreg Thanks my man !
VGA gets games back in a reasonable amount of time??? I joined video game grading too late clearly.
Prior to 2020, VGA was $29 and took no more than 3 months for any order 🥲
@@GetTheGreg wow. I had no idea, to be honest as a new collector the VGA 100$ price tag just completely made me ignore them. I didn't look into them at all, I don't even think I've been on their website. If they had the same 29$ price tag I would have definitely given them a look.
AWESOME!!
Hey man I have a sealed Nes Duck hunt with the plastic hang tag still attached. Does that fit in the Wata cases?
Yea I'm pretty sure they have an option to have a case that allows for the plastic hangtab to fit inside. They could probably also remove it with the "heavy cleaning" option
What do you think a WATA 9.4 with a seal A++ would get graded if it was graded with VGA?
85+ or 90 are your most likely outcomes
@@GetTheGreg Thanks! :D
So I’m sure this is a dumb question but where’s a good place to buy graded games?
Hey man!
eBay, of course. And then you have other auction companies to keep an eye on like
Heritage auctions
Goldin auctions
Certified Link
Comic connect
Hakes auctions
PWCC (sometimes)
@@GetTheGreg thank you!
are wata games air tight? or are there air holes
The cases are not air tight, no.
@@GetTheGreg thank you! I've asked a million people and even wata wouldn't even answer me
Preferring WATA. The VGA homepage and the process for grading is absolutely crap in my opinion. Also WATA is a Little more transparent at how they grade the Games. There a lot more information for the grading scales at wata
I agree with everything you just said haha. VGA is redoing their website so I'm really hoping they can improve upon the points you just made!
@Kyle Reese Incel From The Future I agree fully with this haha. Some of the super high grades show blatant wear... That whole section could use a redo/update.
@Kyle Reese Incel From The Future the looking of the cases depends on everyones one opinion. i personally do like the wata displays more than the vga cases. in my opinion wata has no disadvantage opposite to vga, but its just my personal opinion
@Kyle Reese Incel From The Future it’s just fine if that is your opinion. For me vga and also ukg are just some unlovely Acryl cases. The look exactly the same as normal Acryl cases with some printed information. In my opinion wata just got a more nice and more lovely design. Luckily we can choose the system, which we like better, so it’s just fine.
Btw is saw many vga cases cracked after hitting the floor once.Wata doesn’t. So i guess wata is actually harder to break than vga is. Saw some vga cases which were cracked during shipping, so i really do not guess that vga is more stable than wata 😂
In fact of protecting the game inside of the grading case, there is waaaay more security at WATA than at VGA
So if seal is perfect, the box is slightly damaged go wata or vga?
If you want to maximize value, WATA for sure. They have largely taken over the market even more since I made this video
@@GetTheGreg thank you! Great content
With Wata , don't you have to pay for every line of info added?
I'm not sure what you mean by this? All of the lines of detail on the WATA label are standard, if that's what you mean!
@@GetTheGreg I went to the Wata site and they have a lot of add on services that don't understand.
So all info on the Wata grading label is standard for the price you pay?
No worries man! If you go to my videos I have a "1st time WATA guide" and I go over everything.
But yes, all of the info on the label is standard at no additional cost
i think grading is stupid. Video Games meant to be played. Only games you should sent to grading, is if you want to display it, and its like top 10 of all time, also extra copy. Most "Graders" like 99% is just to get more profit out of it to sell. But thanks for video, if i ever find perfect/brand new sealed copy of one of my favorite games, i sent it to Wata. =)
It's more important to understand why people are willing to pay more for the graded copy of the game regardless if you agree with it or not. You can utilize grading to your advantage if you know what you're doing, and then cycle that money back into games you would enjoy way more!
Of course, that's only if you want to engage in the hobby in that way haha. Everyone enjoys it differently
Thanks for checking out the video man!
@@GetTheGreg ;p i think i came off little harsh earlier comment, i totally agree with important of understanding of graded copy. My only issue with it, if it a game you love very much, the most justifying to do is playing it, also i dont think video games should be hitting price ranges over $1000, developers/publishers/people holding license should make them more available to the public. Main reason i always be pro-pirate (unless you selling copies/pirated as real ones, than i highly dont agree with that), cause in the end they be ones preserving history, and giving access to people that would never otherwise be able to play the games. I totally think it a cool idea of getting extra goodies to get graded to cycle the money back into your collection. I usually just left them in the wild for someone else to find and experience finding awesome game in the wild, unless i knew it a game friend was looking for. =) i liked how very detailed/educational your video was.
Haha no worries! I didn't take it as harsh, just wanted to spin the conversation in a different direction😅
My appreciation of course always started with the playing aspect. As I age and time becomes more limited, my appreciation now has come from the preservation and acquiring of little trophies, really. Having favourite games in pristine condition that I can display and talk to people about has become just as fulfilling as the actual aspect of playing. Same with trading cards. I used to derive most of my pleasure from playing with them, now I get most from just looking at them haha.
Thanks for sharing your perspective though! I want stuff like this in the comments for people to consider.
@@GetTheGreg With what going on with Sony, it defiantly becoming eye opener, for people who were pro digital. I am really worried, about some games in my collection that might not play correctly once store goes down, and unable to update/purchase.
@@LordsOfSkulls I agree completely. I will never be pro digital, but I assume there won't be a choice in 2030, or even sooner...
New subscriber here! I really love you made a step by step for submiting game to Wata! My question is if I decided to cross over to Wata from VGA do I need to cracked the case myself or I can send it to them still inside VGA case. I just want them to be uniformed as I have more wata than vga. Thank you sir!
Most people, I have heard, just leave it inside of the VGA case since it serves as a protective casing for shipping anyway! WATA will then crack the VGA case for you👍
@@GetTheGreg thanks for the reply! I feel secure now send the games in VGA cases!
Wolverine 👍
Good video
I would love to grade with Wata but unfortunately they are not grading ps3 games right now 😭
It's probably going to be a lonnnnggg wait until they do 😢
do either of these companies grade vintage consoles ?
VGA will grade new and/or unused consoles.
@@GetTheGreg brilliant thanks a lot 👍🏼
hey, can you do a video on "how to spot fake boxes" there is a ton of replicas in the market... thanks
I will eventually, yes! I have to a quote some fakes myself first so I can do a good compare and contrast on them!
any good discords for trading
Why didn’t you talk about loose grading?
Didn't want it to become messy. Easier to compare against the stuff they both do!
@@GetTheGreg that makes sense. :) great video btw
Thanks dude! Great username and photo btw😉
Because cib grading is a farce.
Wolverine cousin
WATA to me has the better grading system.. can’t get past an 85 being near mint lol. WATA is the way to go
Those 85s can be very nice sometimes haha! I do think it is better to have the wrap and the box separated though so people have a better idea of "why" it got the grade it did
WATABurger.
Will wata grade sealed pc box games
I don't believe so, no. Nothing outside of standard game dimensions for the consoles they already accept.
@@GetTheGreg does vga?
@@adidas1984x yea, VGA will grade basically anything gaming related haha. They make custom size cases and charge based on "size 1", "size 2" etc
Why the fk should we grade through wata? They are scammers right from the inception of the company, stop telling people to grade through fkng wata
You should grade through WATA
Why does your look scream "Amish fratboy" :D
Ahaha I've certainly never heard that one before 😅
So…. many… tank tops.
I....need...More.
why do people grade shit console games
Sorry? What do you mean?
All of you guys are ruining retro gaming as a viable hobby, and driving the average retro gaming enthusiast to commit piracy.
Grüße gehen raus 👍
Cheers from Canada!✌
Neither...and you need to take this video down before your blackballed in the gaming community
I'm not sure what "blackballed in the gaming community" might mean. I exist in the sealed/graded game community, as well as wider collecting communities. If there's anything you want to know about sealed and/or graded games, variants, etc. Just let me know. I specialize in early Nintendo.
Regardless of how you now feel about it all, this community existed before the controversy, and will continue to exist after it.
@@GetTheGreg you exist in a community then that has been hopefully decimated by this report. When average yoohoo yard sale old ladies and alike now think that because a game is vintage or retro that its worth much more than what it actually is...it kills our community. Hopefully the word spreading of a moratorium or boycott of buying graded games...especially by wata or VGA from all collectors or persons will stop this lunacy. Having a graded nintendo championships game is one thing, but the appalling amount of games that are now being graded and sold to people and being hyped up online as how to make a quick buck has to stop. And it will. Wata and heritage will be known as a fraud and anyone who associates with it. Wata just went from being...a name to now being...blackballed. if you have a wata graded game, take it out of its case, the case is worth more than there name now
@@repomanzilla I would like nothing more than the hobby to be seen as legit and trustworthy (as much as it can be, there will always be something/someone trying to pump/manip). Now that this video is out and far more people know the facts of "how we got here", hopefully more conversation can start any actual wrongdoing can be met with charges/fines/whatever. WATAs name very well may become tarnished beyond repair. That of HA, as well. The hobby will still fully exist in that case. If prices come down, great, I'll be able to buy a few things again without going broke, which it sounds like you can agree with.
But now that the trajectory is set and the headlines about expensive games are made, it will be a long time until we seen the public consciousness not holding any random video game like it's gold.
@@GetTheGreg I can agree with some of what you said. But I disagree with it will be a long time...with the attention this is getting I feel I hope I pray that its soon. Your community is safe with games like nintendo championships signed copies, low print runs, rare undersold games, earthbounds etc...mine is not. With this flagrant scamming being perpetuated by businesses such as wata, VGA, heritage etc it makes large collectors like myself or even small collectors or first timers pay the price. We dont care the first bit about a graded game....but that doesnt mean the garage sale lady we get our games from doesnt know about the famous million dollar mario.....that's a fraud....then they say hey last week we sold you this game for 5 bucks....well now its 50....sorry that's what the graders and the community says its worth....so yeah it screws us big time. I truly hope that every game that's been graded especially by wata or VGA, drops I value 95percent. It's going to happen, maybe not today maybe not tomorrow but soon....and us collectors that got stomped will gladly buy that 1.5 million dollar mario....for $5
We can all agree there's no better rush than a good garage sale find, but I'm not sure we will ever reach a period where it's generally "worthwhile" to hunt again. Hell, I had to stop doing that years ago once the first big boom happened (maybe 2016ish?) I remember local carts of Mario Kart 64 had gotten to $70CAD at my game shop (I collect everything, not just sealed).
A lot of emphasis goes to the sealed and graded market for causing blanket price increases across the board, but this kind of price inflation has been seen before, and when graded games weren't making any headlines. As much as I would love new people to be able to go out and get a snag on some cool games, most will be stuck paying "retail" to enter the hobby.
I don't deny that there are trickle over effects into some CIB games, but I honestly feel the cart market, for the most part, will act independently from almost any sealed/graded noise. I'm not sure I've seen any high correlation between sealed selling high and CIB rising in the disk based markets. Tomb Raider and FF7 black label are still very affordable CIB yet both having 100k sealed sales.
Anyway, just some more thoughts on the matter.