How to Fix a Loose Disc Inside a Factory Sealed Video Game

Discovering a loose disc inside a factory sealed game can be disappointing, especially if you've been searching for a pristine collector's copy. The good news is that, in many cases, it's possible to carefully re-seat the disc onto the centre spindle without opening or damaging the factory seal. Having re-seated hundreds of loose discs over the years, this is the method I use to carefully re-seat them while preserving the factory seal.

Video Tutorial

Before attempting this method, watch the demonstration below. Seeing the technique in action makes it much easier to understand how to safely re-seat a loose disc while preserving the original factory seal. Once you've watched the video, follow the step-by-step instructions below.

Follow the written guide below for a detailed breakdown of each step.

Before You Begin

This method should only be attempted if:

• The factory seal is genuine and completely intact.
• The game case is not cracked or damaged.
• The disc is able to move freely inside the case.
• You are confident the seal will not be put under stress.
• Extra care is required with PS1 jewel cases and other hard plastic cases, as they can be more rigid and may be more susceptible to cracking or damage. Use only very gentle movements and stop if the case needs to be forced.

Step 1 – Inspect the Case

Check that the disc has simply come away from the centre spindle and is not trapped behind the manual or inserts. Check through the plastic to make sure the spindle is not broken.

Step 2 – Position the Disc

Hold the game flat with the front cover facing upwards. Gently tilt and rotate the case until the disc moves towards the centre and the hole in the disc is aligned with the spindle.

Avoid shaking the game. Small, gentle movements work best.

Step 3 – Re-Seat the Disc

Once the disc is aligned, hold the game with the disc facing upwards, approximately 2 feet (60 cm) above a soft surface, such as carpet or a thick rug.

Extra caution for PS1 jewel cases and other hard plastic cases: These cases can be more rigid and more susceptible to cracking. Take extra care when positioning the disc and do not force or flex the case. If the disc does not naturally re-seat, stop rather than risk damaging the case or factory seal.

Allow the game to drop flat onto the surface. If positioned correctly, the disc should click back onto the spindle.

If it doesn't re-seat, carefully repeat the positioning process. Do not increase the drop height or use a harder surface. If the disc will not re-seat naturally, stop and leave it loose rather than risk damaging the case or factory seal.

Step 4 – Check the Disc

Gently tilt the game in different directions.

If you can no longer hear or feel the disc moving inside the case, the disc has been successfully re-seated.

Things to Avoid

• ❌ Do not squeeze the plastic case.
• ❌ Never hit or bang the game against a hard surface.
• ❌ Do not bend the case to force the disc onto the centre spindle.
• ❌ Avoid excessive drop heights or hard landing surfaces.
• ❌ Stop immediately if you believe the factory seal could be damaged.

Final Thoughts

Loose discs are relatively common in factory sealed games, particularly titles that have spent years in storage or have been transported multiple times. In many cases, they can be safely re-seated without opening the game or affecting the original factory seal.

For collectors, preserving the integrity of the factory seal should always be the priority. Take your time, be patient, and never force the process.