This is the most common PS1 game case.

Dimensions: 141.0mm × 129.0mm × 17.0mm

Standard Jewel Case

The standard jewel case was the most common packaging format for PlayStation games in the PAL region. This transparent plastic case became synonymous with CD-based gaming in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Physical Characteristics

The standard PS1 jewel case measures approximately 142mm × 125mm × 10mm and features a hinged design with a clear front cover and black back tray. The front insert typically displayed the game’s cover art, while the back showed screenshots, game information, and barcode. The clear front leaf of the case had a frosted effect along the top and bottom to obfuscate the contents of the game. It additionally had a PlayStation logo embossed on both top and bottom.

Interior Design

The case interior includes a black plastic tray designed to securely hold a single CD. The tray features a central spindle hub with retaining clips that grip the disc’s center hole. There is an additional PlayStation logo embossed along the spine ridge.

There is an additional black plastic tray that was inserted into the inside of the front leaf. This completely covered the front inlay artwork, and added support for a second CD for the Jewel case.

Common Variations

While the standard design remained consistent, manufacturers produced jewel cases in different plastic grades. Early releases often featured thicker, more durable plastic, while later productions sometimes used thinner materials to reduce costs. The clarity of the plastic could also vary, with some cases appearing crystal clear and others having a slightly cloudy or blue-tinted appearance.

Durability Issues

Despite their widespread use, jewel cases were notorious for their fragility. The hinges connecting the front cover to the back were particularly prone to breaking, and the thin plastic tabs holding the disc could snap off with repeated use. Cracks along the spine and corners were also common, especially in cases that had been stored or shipped improperly.

History

The PlayStation One full jewel case became the standard for games released on this console. In the early years there appeared to be a shortage of these cases available to publishers, as well as likely cost saving to be found in releasing in other case formats. In 1997, Sony standardised the PlayStation game format, integrating an additional console logo along the bottom with an authenticity hologram. By the end of 1997, this was the only case used for PlayStation releases with up to two disks.

Releases (1973)

Browse variants by letter.

Total: 1973 variants