In recent years, video game collecting has undergone a transformation with the emergence of Wata Games, a company specializing in the grading of video games. Prior to Wata, there was no standardized grading system for video games, leading to inconsistencies and risk in trading and valuation. With the introduction of professional grading services by Wata, the popularity of video game collecting has surged.
Wata Games was founded with the mission to provide a reliable and standardized grading system for video games. This brought a level of professionalism and reliability, similar to what PSA and ISA had done for sports cards. The company quickly established itself as a leader in the field, offering collectors a way to assess the condition of their games and enhancing their overall value.
To get a game graded by Wata, collectors submit their games to the company, where they are evaluated based on condition, completeness, and quality. Wata provides a detailed grading report and encases the game in a tamper-proof, UV-resistant display case. This not only preserves the game but also enhances its display and potential resale value.
One of the significant impacts of Wata’s grading system is evident in the record-breaking sales at auctions. For example, a sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. for the NES, graded by Wata, was sold for a staggering $660,000 in April 2021, setting a new record for the highest amount ever paid for a video game. Another landmark sale was a sealed copy of The Legend of Zelda for the NES, which fetched $870,000 at auction. The high grades from Wata significantly contributed to the high valuations of these games.
The rise in popularity of video game collecting, facilitated by Wata’s grading services, has expanded the market to include a diverse range of collectors. From nostalgic gamers seeking to own a piece of their childhood to serious investors looking for valuable collectibles, the market now encompasses a broad spectrum of enthusiasts. This diversity has led to increased demand for rare and vintage games, driving up their value and appeal.
Wata’s impact goes beyond just grading games. The company also plays a crucial role in preservation. By grading and encapsulating games, Wata ensures the physical condition of these games is maintained. This preservation is essential for maintaining the value of the games and safeguarding a crucial part of digital entertainment history for future generations.
Furthermore, Wata has taken on an educational role in the collector community. Through its grading services and resources, Wata educates collectors on the importance of game condition, rarity, and provenance. This education has led to a more informed collector base, contributing to the stabilization and growth of the market.
However, Wata’s rise has not been without challenges and criticisms. Some collectors have expressed concerns about the costs associated with grading and the potential focus on the monetary value of games, overshadowing their sentimental and historical value. Additionally, the rapid increase in prices for graded games has raised questions about market sustainability and the risks of speculative investing.
Looking ahead, the future of video game collecting and Wata’s role in it appears promising. As video games continue to be recognized as an integral part of popular culture and entertainment history, the demand for rare and vintage games is likely to remain strong. Wata’s standardized grading process and the growing interest in video game collecting suggest that this market segment will continue to evolve and expand.
The emergence of Wata Games has not only revolutionized video game collecting but also elevated the status of video games in gaming culture. Video games are now seen as valuable collectibles and even as art forms. The passion and investment intersect in video game collecting, where collectors find joy in owning a part of gaming history while also potentially profiting from their collections.
Wata Games has been a game-changer in the world of video game collecting. By providing a trusted grading system, the company has enhanced the value and preservation of video games and has helped legitimize them as a significant category of collectibles. As the market for vintage video games continues to grow, Wata’s role in shaping this space will undoubtedly be at the forefront of collectors, investors, and gaming enthusiasts worldwide.