What do CIB, OVP, PAL & Co. mean? Gaming terms simply explained
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CIB stands for "Complete in Box" – the game is complete with its original packaging, manual, and disc or cartridge.
Anyone buying or collecting used video games quickly comes across abbreviations like CIB, OVP, PAL, or Sealed. Here you will find all important gaming terms clearly explained.
CIB – Complete in Box
CIB stands for "Complete in Box" and describes a game that is complete with its original packaging (OVP), manual, and data carrier (disc, module, or cartridge). CIB is the standard condition preferred by collectors. A CIB game does not have to be new – signs of use are normal as long as everything is complete.
Example: Our PS2 games like Silent Hill 3 or Zelda Twilight Princess for GameCube are CIB – complete with everything that was in the box back then.
OVP – Original Packaging
OVP is the German abbreviation for original packaging. A game "in OVP" still has its original game case or box. OVP does not say whether the manual is included – only that the packaging is present. In German-speaking countries, OVP is used more frequently than CIB.
In short: OVP = packaging present. CIB = packaging + manual + complete game.
PAL – Phase Alternating Line
PAL is the TV standard used in Europe and Australia. PAL games are intended for European consoles. The counterpart is NTSC (USA and Japan). Anyone who owns a European console needs PAL games – NTSC games generally do not work on PAL consoles without modification.
Important for you: All games at NEVO Store are PAL versions, thus compatible with European consoles.
NTSC – National Television System Committee
NTSC is the TV standard for North America and Japan. NTSC games usually do not run on European consoles. For collectors, NTSC versions are sometimes interesting because certain games were only released in the USA or Japan.
Sealed – Originally packaged and sealed
Sealed means that a game is still shrink-wrapped in its original factory film and has never been opened. Sealed games are particularly valuable to collectors because they are in new condition. Sometimes the seal is slightly damaged – then it's referred to as "Near Sealed".
Example: Our Kingdom Hearts 3 Deluxe Edition is Sealed – the film is still original, with documented damage to the back.
Loose – Game only, without packaging
Loose means that only the data carrier (disc, module) is present – without original packaging and without manual. Loose games are cheaper but less interesting for collectors.
Mint – Like new condition
Mint describes a flawless condition with no visible signs of use. A game in Mint Condition looks like new, even if it has been opened. Mint is the highest condition level for used items.
Refurbished – Overhauled and tested
Refurbished means that a console or device has been professionally cleaned, repaired, and tested. Refurbished consoles are a good alternative to new goods because they are significantly cheaper and still function reliably.
Example: Our consoles at NEVO Store are cleaned, tested, and their condition is honestly described – comparable to Refurbished quality.
USK – Entertainment Software Self-Regulation
USK is the German age rating for video games. The levels are USK 0 (no age restriction), USK 6, USK 12, USK 16, and USK 18 (no youth release). The USK label can be found on the front of every game package sold in Germany.
PEGI – Pan European Game Information
PEGI is the European counterpart to USK and is used in most other European countries. PEGI levels are 3, 7, 12, 16, and 18. Imported games often carry a PEGI instead of a USK logo.
Day One Edition / Launch Edition
A Day One Edition is a first edition that was sold on the release day of a game. It often contains exclusive bonus content such as additional DLCs, Steelbooks, or artbooks. For collectors, Day One Editions are more valuable than later standard editions.
Steelbook
A Steelbook is a game case made of metal instead of plastic. Steelbooks are often part of Limited or Deluxe Editions and are popular with collectors because they look higher quality and are rarer.
Greatest Hits / Platinum / Essentials
These are cheaper re-releases of successful games. Sony calls them "Platinum" (PS2) or "Essentials" (PS3/PS4), Nintendo calls them "Nintendo Selects", Microsoft calls them "Classics". For collectors, the first editions are more valuable than these budget versions.
All terms at a glance
CIB – Complete with packaging, manual, and game
OVP – Original packaging present
PAL – European TV standard
NTSC – American/Japanese TV standard
Sealed – Originally packaged, never opened
Loose – Data carrier only, without packaging
Mint – Like new condition
Refurbished – Overhauled and tested
USK – German age rating
PEGI – European age rating
Day One Edition – First edition with bonus content
Steelbook – Metal game case
Platinum/Essentials – Cheap re-release
Looking for tested games and consoles in honestly described condition? Then browse our games, consoles or our accessories now.