How to spot a fake Sega Mega Drive or Genesis game

I got stung when I thought I was buying a real Mega Drive cartridge and it turned out to be a repro. Obviously checking inside the cartridge is the best way to be absolutely sure, but if you haven't got the time to do that, here are some things you can look for.

[mallardtheduck]

Lack of dust is meaningless, since, you know, people tend to clean things before they sell them... The other indications are useful, ofc.

[MIKandJEAN]

You bought it from a Smooth Criminal who was BAD. 😂😂

[dankirt]

I had a copy of this over 10 years ago that would only sometimes work, what could have caused that? I would understand never working. But it was pure chance if I could play it or not 🤔

[local]

Shame, it's a great game. Was thinking about the time I used to play this game.

[Darkharry]

How do you spot a fake game gear game?

[yardgrid]

If adults are buying stuff like this, ripping them off is a Robin Hood move.