You read "FF IX PS1 CIB" or "Loose cartridge, very good condition" in an ad and you're not sure you understand everything? The world of the collection has its vocabulary. Controlling it is buy at the right price and without bad surprise. This is the essential glossary.

The 3 major states

Loose

The game only, without box or record: just the cartridge or disc. This is the cheapest option, perfect for play without ruining. For the collector, it is often a basis to be completed later.

CIB (Complete In Box)

Complete in box: at least the game, its original box and its notice in the definition used by many price guides. In an advertisement between collectors, "complete" may also imply holds, registration card, advertisements or other inserts originally delivered. Always ask the seller what is actually included.

Sealed

Presumed nine under original seal, never opened. This is neither automatically the most sought-after state nor a guarantee of authenticity: false blisters and re-sealings exist, and the inner contents cannot be checked without opening.

The vocabulary that often comes back

  • Notice / manual: the instruction booklet. Its presence and state count in the value of a IPC.
  • Cale / insert: the cardboard elements that set the game in the box. Often missing, they make the difference on a "complete" IPC.
  • Jaquette / inlay: the printed illustration slided into the case.
  • Obi : the lateral paper strip of Japanese editions, very popular.
  • PAL / NTSC-U / NTSC-J: the region or commercial family of the game depending on the generation (see guide PAL FR).
  • Repro: ambiguous term for reproduction. A copy not authorized or presented as genuine is prohibited on large markets; a clearly marked replacement part does not have the same value as an original.
  • Mint / Near Mint: state "as new" or almost perfect.
  • Rating: the estimated market price (see our guide).

Why the state changes everything

For the same game, the price gap between loose, CIB and sealed can be huge. That's why a serious announcement always specifies the state and why you must record the status of each game in your collection. This refines your estimated value and helps you know what to improve (e.g. passing a IPC loose).

In SideQuest, note the status and editing of each game. This makes inventory and research more accurate, without turning an estimate into guaranteed price.

What state to aim for?

  • For play: loose, unbeatable price side.
  • For collect: IPC, reference standard.
  • To keep a closed copy: sealed, provided you can authenticate the seal and agree not to check inside.

Many collectors mix: loose for the games they just want to finish, CIB for their heart series.

Verified sources

FAQ

What does IPC mean for a video game?

IPC means Complete In Box. Check the details of the advertisement: depending on the seller, the term may include only game, box and notice, or also original inserts.

What is the difference between loose and CIB?

"Loose" = game alone, without box. "CIB" = complete box. The IPC is generally worth much more.

Is a sealed game really worth more?

Not systematically. Some sealed copies are sold more expensive, but demand, the authenticity of the blister, the state and publishing remain decisive.

Reference the status and edition of each game to keep a workable collection. [Try SideQuest →][/]