How to Recognize Pirated PS2 Games

Look at the price of the game and see whether the price matches your valuation of the product. Is it a game that needs to be priced so low? If it is a rare collector's item and it is selling for an extremely low price, be suspicious; why would anyone want to lose money on a rare PS2 game?

Examine the cover and title sleeve. Make sure you check for authentic publisher and developer logos and language, spelling or grammar consistency---all are signs of a genuine game.

Check for other copies of the game. A store should not have nine or 10 copies of a rare PS2 game. If the game you want is hard to get hold of in the first place, there should not be more than one or two copies.

Check the PS2 disc. If the disc has scratches or has an inconsistent cover, it is likely a fake. Check also whether the underside of the disc is a different color than the usual PS2 disc finishes (a reflective, clear surface). Most PS2 games also will come with the PlayStation logo on the disc. Check for one to ensure a genuine copy of the title.

Trust your instincts. If you have any reason to question the authenticity or legality of a game title, then it is likely to be a fake. Use common sense: Is the game presented in a similar way to any of the other games you own or have seen?