As players and collectors,
we’ve been around the block,
hunting, trading, and playing
retro gear long enough to know that
condition
isn’t just “nice to know,” it's
everything
. That's why we keep our
grading system
simple and inspired by
Japanese game standards
where "
" is the
ultimate rank
so you always
know exactly
what you get when you
shop
with us.
Play
Collect
Rewind
3 Levels
S
This is our highest grade. Reserved for the rarest finds: Brand new, factory-sealed retro gaming products that have never been opened or used. With extremely limited stock, often available as single units. Premium collector territory.
A
Retro gaming products in mint condition, almost new. Opened but showing minimal to no signs of use, and complete-in-box. These units have been fully inspected and tested. Great for both players and collectors.
B
Complete-in-box (CIB) retro gaming consoles and accessories in great condition. These units or boxes may show very light signs of handling but are well cared for. Fully inspected to meet RetroPixl standards for the best experience.
S Rank - Premium Retro Gaming
In Japanese gaming culture, an S rank is a badge of absolute excellence; The kind you earn only after mastering a level, defeating a tough boss, or pulling off a flawless run. It sits above the traditional A grade, reserved for the rarest, most exceptional achievements.
At RetroPixl, S Rank is our highest honor, given only to brand new, factory-sealed retro gaming consoles that have never been opened or used.
These are unicorn-level finds, the type serious collectors dream of and players rarely encounter in the wild. The S stands for Super, Special, Shū (秀), or Shinpin (新), Japanese for “excellent” and "new".
Only a handful of S Rank retro consoles ever make it into our store, often as single units. When you see one, it’s now or never.
A Rank - Mint Retro Gaming
An A rank is the mark of mint condition; Opened, but virtually indistinguishable from new. These consoles are complete-in-box with all original parts, fully inspected, tested, and ready to play or display.
The A stands for Almost New, Authentic, Assured (all have been tested and verified by RetroPixl), and Appeal (for their stunning condition for both players and collectors).
While not sealed, they’ve been so well preserved that even seasoned collectors often do a double take. A Rank consoles offer the satisfaction of owning something premium, without the scarcity-driven price tag of factory-sealed pieces.
Perfect choice when you want the look and feel of new, without paying sealed-collectible prices.
B Rank - Complete in Box
B rank means great condition; Fully functional, complete-in-box retro gaming consoles and accessories that have been well cared for. These units or boxes may show light signs of handling, but nothing that affects performance or enjoyment.
The B stands for Boxed, Better Value (quality gear at a lower price point), Battle-Tested (inspected and confirmed to work flawlessly), and Beloved (perfect for players who appreciate authenticity without paying top-tier collector prices).
While not mint, B Rank consoles offer an ideal balance for gamers and collectors who want quality, reliability, and a piece of retro history that’s meant to be enjoyed. It's the smart choice for both playing and displaying.
RetroPixl Journal
Sega Mega Modem: when Sega takes gaming online
In 1990, the Sega Mega Modem connects the Japanese Mega Drive to network services, bringing downloads and connected gaming to retro gaming years ahead of the mainstream.
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Mini consoles: when retro gaming becomes miniature
Mini consoles transform some of the most iconic Japanese consoles into miniature celebrations of retro gaming, from the Famicom and Mega Drive to Neo Geo and PC Engine.
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Bandai Playdia: Japan’s forgotten console
Released only in Japan, the Bandai Playdia combines colorful hardware, anime franchises, and unusual CD-ROM experiences into one of the most fascinating Japanese consoles in retro gaming.