Ebay Due Diligence
Report for Game Start Japan
Why we think so
Game Start Japan lists this Banpresto Madoka Magica figure set as new, with over 350 units sold and a very high feedback score (99.7%). The seller operates from Hyogo, Japan with a store featuring over 830 items. Pricing is in line with current US and Japanese retail for new Banpresto sets, though cheaper secondhand options exist. The store itself appears established and active, sporting a diverse inventory and clear return and payment policies. No direct reports of scam activity or counterfeit items are connected specifically to "Game Start Japan". However, there are general cautionary notes about eBay sellers from Japan, including potential for mixing authentic with counterfeit goods, and use of high feedback ratings as a cover. Visuals and item information seem consistent with legitimate Banpresto releases. Still, buyers should check for real photos (not just stock images), and use eBay protections for payment and returns. If authenticity is critical, and for items valued close to $500 (authentication threshold), ask for extra photos and documentation, and verify pricing against known Japanese outlets like AmiAmi, Mandarake, and official retailers. Overall, this listing shows strong signals of legitimacy, but remain vigilant and follow best practices for collector purchases. 🛡️
Risk Insights
High-volume, highly rated eBay seller 🛡️
Market price and return policy check
General eBay buyer risks for Japanese collectibles
Contradictory Signals
While no issues were found for Game Start Japan, caution is merited due to broader category risk. Encourage best buying practices for high-value or collector purchases.
Signal A: Seller has high feedback and extensive positive selling history.
Signal B: General warnings exist that high feedback can be manipulated or used as cover for counterfeit sales in other categories.
Category Scores
Red Flags & Warnings
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Wider reports highlight that some Japanese eBay sellers may use high feedback and mix authentic with counterfeit stock; buyers should remain alert for signs like reused stock photos and too-good-to-be-true prices.
🔎 Detailed Checks & Analysis
Seller identity and eBay reputation consistency
Seller identity and eBay reputation consistency
"No anomalies found in reputation or history. Seller's inventory and public store details match the claimed identity."
Reason: Game Start Japan's eBay profile shows a high feedback score and a track record of hundreds of sales, including new and collectible products.
Product listing details and authenticity markers
Product listing details and authenticity markers
"Images show correct product packaging and style; no signs of manipulation or inconsistent descriptions."
Reason: The listing supplies consistent product details (Banpresto brand, new condition, figures' names, materials, Japan origin), and the price matches market value.
Price alignment and suspicious pricing checks
Price alignment and suspicious pricing checks
"Used figures and domestic market have lower prices, but new-in-box pricing aligns with international retail norms."
Reason: The price of $69.56 plus shipping is typical for new Japanese Banpresto figure sets when buying direct from Japan.
Fulfillment policies and buyer protections
Fulfillment policies and buyer protections
"Multiple payment methods available, and shipping/delivery expectations are clear."
Reason: eBay purchase, payment, and return features are in place. 30-day returns with buyer responsible for shipping are specified.
Seller business scale and commercial validity
Seller business scale and commercial validity
"A wide selection of Japanese collectibles and electronics, both new and used, is offered across hundreds of listings."
Reason: The seller runs an extensive storefront with a large, varied inventory and repeat sales, indicating a legitimate business.
Counterfeit or manipulation risk (specific evidence)
Counterfeit or manipulation risk (specific evidence)
"A slight risk remains common in gaming/collectibles categories; always verify with extra photos and document communications for high-value purchases."
Reason: While there are general community warnings about some Japanese eBay sellers using high ratings despite selling counterfeits, no direct counterfeit complaints are linked to this specific store or listing.
Your Next Steps
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1Inspect product images closely; if only stock photos are shown, message the seller for additional actual photos of the item.
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2Read recent buyer feedback for this listing or seller to confirm satisfaction with received items.
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3Use eBay's payment and returns system to maintain buyer protection.
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4If buying collectibles for high value or authenticity, compare with pricing and images from known Japanese shops (AmiAmi, Mandarake, Solaris Japan).
Evidence & Citations
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eBay Listing: Madoka Magica Ultimate Madoka & Devil Homura Figure Set
Active listing with all product and seller details, images, and sales history.
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Game Start Japan eBay Store Profile
Storefront information, inventory, and seller standing confirm legitimacy and scale.
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Forum/YouTube: General Scams From Japanese eBay Sellers
Summarizes risks seen with some Japanese eBay sellers, not linked specifically to 'Game Start Japan'.
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Banpresto Madoka Magica Price Comparison
Market comparison for similar new figure sets demonstrates price alignment.
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