Italian authorities have dismantled a massive video game trafficking ring worth nearly €50 million. Police seized thousands of fake vintage consoles and games, including popular titles from the 1980s and 90s like Mario Bros., Street Fighter, and Star Wars.
Turin’s financial police confiscated around 12,000 consoles loaded with over 47 million pirated video games. Alessandro Langella, head of the economic crime unit, stated that the haul’s estimated value includes both the consoles and hundreds of licenses for the pirated programs.
Posing potential safety hazards to consumers
“They came entirely from China,” Langella revealed. “They were imported to be sold in specialized shops or online.” The counterfeit consoles mimicked iconic devices produced by Nintendo, Sega, and Atari. However, they failed to meet strict European Union technical and safety standards. Each device contained non-certified batteries and electrical circuits, posing potential safety hazards to consumers.
The seized items have been destroyed to prevent them from entering the market. Authorities have arrested nine Italian nationals involved in the operation. They face charges of trading in counterfeit goods and, if convicted, could spend up to eight years in prison.
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The bust highlights the growing phenomenon of “retrogaming,” where enthusiasts seek out vintage games and consoles. On TikTok, the hashtag #retrogaming has amassed over 170 million posts. “The phenomenon is experiencing a phase of strong popularity and commercial expansion,” Langella noted.
Old games and second-hand consoles are in high demand. A working Super Nintendo system with games can sell online for anywhere between £100 ($131) and £275, depending on its condition. In 2021, a sealed copy of Super Mario 64 shattered records by selling at auction for more than $1.5 million.
The lucrative market has unfortunately attracted counterfeiters looking to cash in. By selling fake consoles loaded with pirated games, they undermine legitimate businesses and defraud consumers. This operation’s success sends a strong message to others involved in similar illegal activities.
Authorities urge consumers to be cautious when purchasing vintage gaming equipment. Buying from reputable sellers and verifying the authenticity of products can help prevent unintentional support of illegal operations. The crackdown aims not only to stop this specific ring but also to deter future counterfeit activities in the booming retrogaming market.
Langella emphasized the importance of protecting both consumers and legitimate businesses. “We are committed to combating counterfeit goods that pose risks to safety and the economy,” he said.
