How to Grade Nintendo Switch Game Cartridge Condition: A1, A2, B, C Guide

Condition grades for used games sound simple but hide a lot of subjectivity. One seller's "like new" is another's "plays fine but the case is cracked." Here's a clear standard for grading Nintendo Switch cartridges so both buyers and sellers know exactly what they're dealing with.

A1 - Like New / Very Good

This is the standard CartridgeBond requires for all current listings. A1 means:

Game plays perfectly - no save corruption, no read errors, launches to title screen
Original case included, intact, and contains the correct game
Cartridge pins are clean (gold-colored, no corrosion or bending)
Cartridge label is fully intact and legible
Minor surface scuffs on the case or cartridge are acceptable - these don't affect gameplay or value meaningfully
All original inserts present (though many modern Switch games have no inserts)

A1 is the only condition where the full CartridgeBond reference price applies. Games in lower condition should be priced accordingly.

A2 - Good / Lightly Used

A2 games play perfectly but show visible signs of use. This grade includes:

Gameplay: fully functional, no issues
Case: present but may have minor cracks at hinges or edges
Cartridge: minor scratches on label, pins still clean
Missing: original insert/manual (rare for Switch games)

A2 games are typically worth 10-20% less than A1. A buyer should expect to pay $35-38 for an A2 Mario Kart vs $43 for A1.

B - Acceptable / Fair

B-grade games play fine but have meaningful cosmetic issues:

Case is cracked, missing, or not original
Cartridge has a visible scratch on the label (not affecting the pin area)
Minor water damage on case (not cartridge)

B-grade games are typically worth 25-40% below A1. They're a good buy for players who don't care about condition, a risky sell if the buyer is expecting better.

C - Poor / Parts Only

C-grade games are those with functional concerns:

Intermittent read errors or game crashes
Bent or corroded pins
Significant physical damage to the cartridge

C-grade games should be disclosed fully and priced very low - or not sold to someone expecting a working game. CartridgeBond currently only supports A1 condition trades.

How to Inspect a Game at the Meetup

In order of importance:

Insert the cartridge into a Switch - confirm it reads and launches. This takes 60 seconds and is non-negotiable.
Check the pins - gold and clean means good. Dark, corroded, or bent means problems.
Check the label - can you read the title? Are there deep gouges? Light scuffs are fine.
Check the case - hinges intact? Correct game inside?
Overall impression - does it match what was described? If not, renegotiate or walk away.

Ready to trade smarter?

CartridgeBond currently trades A1 condition games - like new, original case, plays perfectly. Submit yours now.

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