Foreword: Although this guide is written as a guide to note key differences between real & fake copies of GBA Pokemon games, it is NOT intended to work in every case. If you do suspect the game you've purchased is a fake, contact the seller immediately.

So, you've just got an allowance and have searched eBay tirelessly for that elusive Pokemon game that you don't yet have in your collection. So you find it, pay for it, and when it arrives, you suspect a little foul play. Bad news: You may have just purchased a counterfeit! You didn't think so and thought it was as legitimate as can be, but they took you for a fool. Here are some tips you can use to help you avoid a nasty lightening of your wallet.

First, let's get into detail about which Pokemon games are real and were released by Nintendo. The following is a complete list of games that are legitimate releases for US & Canada (Information valid as of 9/23/2009):

Game Boy/Color:
Red
Blue
Yellow
Gold
Silver
Crystal (First GBC-Exclusive Pokemon Game; Not backwards compatible)
Trading Card Game (First GBC Pokemon game that was backwards compatible)
Pinball

Game Boy Advance:
Ruby
Sapphire
Emerald
FireRed*
LeafGreen*
Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team
Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire
Puzzle League

DS:
Trozei
Diamond
Pearl
Platinum
Pokemon Ranger
Pokemon Ranger: Shadows of Almia
Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team
Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time
Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Darkness
Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky (Due out: 10/15/2009)
HeartGold** (Due out: Spring 2010)
SoulSilver** (Due out: Spring 2010)

Other Consoles:
Pokemon Stadium (N64)
Pokemon Stadium 2 (N64)
Pokemon Colosseum (GameCube)
Pokemon Snap (N64)
Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness (GameCube)
Pokemon Battle Revolution (Wii)
My Pokemon Ranch (Wii***)

* Remake of Red and Green versions. Green version was a Japan-only release.
** Like FireRed & LeafGreen, HeartGold & SoulSilver are remakes of Pokemon Gold & Silver respectively.
*** Game available through Wiiware

Any version other than those listed is FAKE!

Now that the games have been listed, it's time to spot what is real and what is fake.
Note: The following depicts an AUTHENTIC copy of FireRed and a Counterfeit of LeafGreen.

First, let's look at the obvious. The authentic FireRed has a metallic label. LeafGreen does not. Remember: if it doesn't glint in the light when you hold it, be suspicious!
To note the differences internally, I have used a small Tri-Wing screwdriver to open the case (of the cartridge).
After removing the screw (or in this case "screws"), try to slide the top cover downwards toward the contact area. If the case doesn't open easily, you may have a counterfeit! With the top cover removed, look at how everything is positioned on the chipboard. On FireRed the processor is on the left and the capacitor (the battery-looking thing; what keeps the game saves active) is on the right. On the counterfeit everything is reversed. Note that with FireRed, the processor is a LOT smaller than on the counterfeit LeafGreen. Also note that with the FireRed chipboard, it says "Nintendo". That is one of the many signs you can use to determine if it's a fake. Another key thing to note is the color of the contact area. On all authentic GBA carts, this area is gold to ensure proper operation. The counterfeit is made of silver or is lead-based, which can lead to very sloppy and erratic operation.

Lastly, let's check the game from a gamers prospective. Turn the game on and see if the game starts up correctly. Blow on it (the cartridge) if you have to because even authentic copies need a little help. Things you have to watch out for while paying are little dialog boxes that don't appear in other games. For example: if there's a dialog box that says "Save Data OK" or one that explains the controls after pressing start at the title screen, you have a counterfeit!

So now that everything regarding counterfeits has been explained, you'll shop eBay knowing to be slightly more cautious. As the old saying goes "If it sounds too good too be true, it probably is". Here are some things you should ask if you suspect a counterfeit.

• Look to see if they have an actual picture of the item they're selling. If they have a picture of actual game play or a stock photo, be cautious.

• Look at the sellers location. If it says China or says "UNITED STATES, UNITED STATES", pass it up; it may be a counterfeit!

• Also note the price of the item. If the item is "new", cheaper than others similar and is defined as "Buy Now", use caution.

Lastly, as a general rule of thumb, if you have any doubts about the item in question, contact the seller. I hope that this guide was helpful to you. Happy Hunting.