When it comes to video game grading, there are two major players (pun definitely intended) in the space: WATA and VGA.
VGA (Video Game Authority) is a branch of Collectible Grading Authority, Inc. whereas WATA Games is fully dedicated to graded games. Both offer video game authentication and grading services; however, the designs and grading scales they use vary.
Here’s what you need to know about each.
Graded Case Design
When you get your graded games back from VGA or WATA, you’ll immediately notice a couple of different things. First, the size.
WATA’s graded cases tend to be a bit bigger than VGA’s because the label placement is different on each. Also, tamper-proof clips on the tops and bottoms of WATA’s cases lend a bit more bulk to the overall design.
In terms of the labels, you’ll notice that WATA’s cases contain a bit more detailed information about the game, whereas VGA’s are quite simplistic. People seem to like WATA’s level of detail, though VGA does have a better handle on overall simplicity of design.
Also, one thing to note: Horizontal boxes, such as those used for Super Nintendo and N64 games, tend to display better with VGA because they offer a more native horizontal design.
Grading Scales
Next comes the different grading scales each of these companies use. The three major submission types accepted are factory sealed games, opened but “Complete In Box” (C.I.B.), and loose video game cartridges without the book or box.
The important distinction here is that VGA includes both the outside shrinkwrap and overall box condition in a single grade, whereas WATA grades each of these items separately.
WATA operates on a 10-point scale with a curve, as there are different sub-grades in between. From the lowest grade (0.5) on up to 9, grades are distinguished at 0.5 increments. From 9 to 10, however, is where the curve kicks in. Grades in this range are set at 0.2 increments, so your games can score (hard to avoid these puns!) a 9.2, 9.4, 9.6, or 9.8 as well.
Secondly, with WATA, factory sealed games will also receive a separate letter grade reflecting the quality and integrity of their shrink-wrap/seal. The scale here ranges from A++ (like new condition) to a C (poor condition) with five steps in between.
VGA, on the other hand, operates on a 100-point scale, ranging from very poor (10) on up to gem mint (100). The scale is broken up in increments of 10, though once you get up to 70 you start to see sub-grades such as 75 and 75+. As mentioned, there is no seal grade.
Tips: When to Submit Games to Each
Both companies’ grading scales have their advantages depending on the condition of your game.
With VGA, for example, if you have a really bad seal but a really nice box, you’re ultimately going to get dinged. Because WATA looks at those things separately, your game might fetch a higher overall grade. The same goes for when you have a perfect-looking box with a few minor flaws (such as tiny tears or holes) in the shrinkwrap. In that instance, WATA’s your play.
On the other hand, if you have an amazing seal but a decent enough looking box, consider sending it to VGA. The fact that they combine both into a single grading scale could very well work in your favor if you decide to make that your play.
Overall, the market seems to favor a high-grade box over a high-grade seal, so that’s another piece of info you can use to help determine where to send your game.
Market Perception
Speaking of the market, when it comes to each of these companies, it helps to know where you can get the most bang for your buck in terms of selling your graded games.
The good news is: in terms of overall market liquidity, both WATA and VGA games are relatively easy to sell. Video game grading is very much on the rise, but it’s not like the market is currently flooded with highly graded games. When supply is low, demand is high—that’s the name of the… okay, I can’t do that to you this time.
That said, all things being equal, the market does seem to prefer WATA-certified games. WATA’s teamed up with Heritage Auctions, who sells a lot of high-end games. If the games you’re looking to sell are high-end, WATA feels like the smart play. Otherwise, VGA’s sleek design, quicker turnaround, and less expensive pricing structure might be a little more collector-friendly.