The arcade machine collecting market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by nostalgia and the desire to own a piece of gaming history. Unfortunately, this popularity has also led to a rise in counterfeit and bootleg products that can trap unsuspecting buyers. Understanding the most common issues is crucial for any collector or enthusiast.

One of the most prevalent problems is the circulation of counterfeit Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). Bootleggers create unauthorized copies of original game boards, often with inferior components. These fake PCBs frequently suffer from graphical glitches, sound errors, and a higher failure rate. They are sometimes sold as "original" or "untested" to unsuspecting buyers.

Another widespread issue is the reproduction cabinet. Instead of an original arcade cabinet from the era, sellers offer newly built cabinets passed off as vintage. These reproductions often use modern materials and construction techniques that differ from the originals, lacking the authenticity and durability of genuine cabinets. The wood type, joinery, and overall build quality are common giveaways.

Fraudulent art and marquees are also a major concern. The vibrant side art, control panel overlays, and marquees are iconic parts of an arcade machine. Counterfeiters produce low-quality prints on incorrect materials, resulting in colors that fade quickly or graphics that lack the sharpness of original silk-screened art.

Furthermore, the market is flooded with bootleg conversion kits. In the past, arcade operators would often convert existing cabinets to new games using official kits. Today, scammers create fake conversion kits containing copied PCBs and reproduction art to turn a common cabinet into a rare, expensive title, dramatically inflating its value deceptively.

The proliferation of these fakes damages the preservation of gaming history and can lead to significant financial loss for collectors. To avoid these issues, buyers should purchase from reputable sellers, educate themselves on the specific details of original hardware, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Verifying the authenticity of PCBs, cabinets, and art is an essential step in the collecting process.