Hey guys, I recently came across a japanese gameboy sp that is a maroon red color and appears to be a non-modified or pirated system. Does anyone have any information about this particular gba sp variation? I can't find info anywhere online. The board is nearly identical to the standard US GBA SP Boards. This is also definitely not just a paint job either, the plastic inside is the same maroon red color (just slightly lighter in color). I noticed that the board on the inside was a rev b board which is typically in an ags-101 model (back-lit model) gameboy, but the gameboy model is an ags-001 and is front lit. Do you think this could just be a case swap?
I agree, you can tell by the recessed rubber pads in the top left/right corners of the screen. The original Nintendo rubber pads protrude slightly to absorb the impact from closing, and to maintain a small gap between the top and bottom halves of the case when closed. Also the motherboard appears to have been water damaged at some point? There should also be a matching water damage indicator sticker inside the battery compartment - if its missing then its definitely a replacement case.
Ok, thank you guys for helping me to confirm my suspicions about this gameboy. I really do appreciate all of your help.