Convertors!

[maxlords]

First.....topic....so.....difficult!

Ok...as you all may know, there are a ton of different convertors for your importing needs for most systems! This thread can be to discuss the merits of the different convertors and their costs, dowsides, etc! For starters, I'll list the few I have, and what they do and such:

Genesis/Mega Drive:

Mega Key (black w/yellow label) - The Mega Key is a wonderful all-in-one convertor for the Mega Drive. It unlocks PAL as well as NTSC Jp games for any Genesis, including the Sega CDX! Very nice convertor, passthrough with dip switches. Downside - They're kinda hard to find and kinda spendy. Price - $50-60 average, but can be had as low as $20-30 if you're lucky

Skeleton Convertor - The skeleton convertor for the Mega Drive is a straight passthough convertor that allows you to play Jp Mega Drive games on a US system. No goodies, no perks, just Jp games. It's got no case, so it's not pretty, but it works! Downside - No PAL support. Price - $20-30 usually, sometimes more, sometimes less


NES:

Honeybee convertor - The most common convertor I've ever seen....has a 60-72 pin convertor in it, stragiht passthrough, so you just pop a Famicom cart on, pop it in your NES, and you're good to go! These are VERY common, as well as there being a bunch of knockoff ones, so easy to come by. They have a ribbon to allow you to pull the convertor and game out so that it doesn't get stuck inside your NES (unless you have a top loader, then no worries). Downside - Really isn't one! Price - $5-10, don't overpay for these!


Saturn:

ST-Key - The ST-Key is one of the easier convertors to get. It pops in the memory card slot of your Saturn. Then when you turn the Saturn on, it goes to a boot screen for the ST-Key, you select Start Application from the main Saturn menu, and you're playing imports! Easy to use, easy to find. Downside - With the straight ST-Key, you can't play imports that require the RAM expansion, and you can only save to internal memory, which isn't so useful if your battery is dead! Price - $10-15, also very inexpensive!


TG16/Duo:

TV Game Computer Cartridge Convertor - This is one of the less well known Duo/TG16 convertors. It comes in black and white. The black is smaller and only fits TG16 systems, while the white is taller and fits the Duo slot if you remove the huCard lid. Basically, pop this into the TG16/Duo port and put a Jp huCard into it and it'll play it! The TV GCCC convertors are a funny shape, but not nearly as irritatingly long as the "diving board" convertors also available for the TG16/Duo. Downside - Good luck finding one...they're rare as hell, and sometimes huCards take a couple tries to seat properly in it. Price - $60-75 average, sometimes higher, sometimes lower, but don't expect to find one under $50!

That's all I've got for now, but as I get more, or more info, I'll list more of em! Feel free to add more convertors to the list, along with your thoughts on em!

[Funk Buddy]

Saturn:

Sega Satellite

Features:

Plays JPN, PAL & US games on all systems
$9.90

Action Replay (called 4 in 1 or 5 in 1 sometimes)

Features:

1 M ram and or 4 M (depending on the cart)
Memory manager
Cheat device
Allows play of JPN, PAL & US games on any system

Can be bought for $19 - $30 depending on where you buy them. Please be aware that sometimes the ram will not work, even with new carts. There is a fix you can do inside, but I never have done it. Also, sometimes they are dead, right out of the box. Keep this in mind too! ;)

There are many different varietys of this cart. The AR by EMS is the most popular version you will find. It just so happens I have a bunch of new ones to sell. :-D

Play Station:

PS-X-Change v2.0

Features:

Plays imports on PS & PS One
You can add code to defeat anti-mod protection
Only works with single disc games
$19

Gold Finger

Features:

Same as Mini Game Hunter (could be the same item)
$15

Mini Game Hunter 2M Lite

Features:

Memory card manager
Cheat device
Allows you to watch in game video
I believe there are two more features, but I can't recall.

Works on model 100 and 700 systems only. Plugs into expansion port. I don't know much about them, sorry. :embarrassed:

Dreamcast:

DC-X

Features:

Allows the play of JPN, PAL & US games on any system.
Has VGA support.
(I will edit this once I get the other features)

DC-IE

Features:

Plays imports (I assume just like the DC-X)

Lik-Sang states that this item is, "Blaze's DCX OEM production for Interact".
$12.99

Cheats and Codes (I think that's what it's called?!? x_x)

Features:

Plays imports
(I will edit this once I get the other features)

Game Shark Lite

Features:

Cheat device
Plays imports
$14.99

Game Cube:

Action Replay

Features:

Cheat device
Play imports
$36.95

Free Loader

Features:

Plays JPN, PAL & US games on any system
Works for multi disc games
$19.90

N64:

Passport Adapter Version III

Features:

Plays JPN, PAL & US games on any system
Cheat device
$21

SNES/SFC:

Super Magic Converter

Features:

Plays JPN, PAL & US games on any system
Not compatible with FX chip games
$14.90

Genesis/Megadrive:

Honey Bee Game Adaptor

Features:

US Games on Japanese Consoles
Japanese Games on US and PAL consoles
PAL games on Japanese Consoles
Will not work with games that have 'Lock-Out' protection
$9.99

I have a few of these items, but used several sites for info on the rest. Check here (http://www.lik-sang.com) or here (http://www.ncsx.com) for some of the items I listed.

[kainemaxwell]

Know any other good places for this stuff?
I take it even with the converter any text will still be Japanese then?

[Biohazard]

NES:

Gamekey Adaptor by Horelec

This is a pretty big converter. It justs slides in like your normal cart, only you have to put two NES carts on the part of the converter that's on the outside of your NES. Back: game cart that's the same region as your NES. Front: Import game.

On the box it says it will only convert US games into PAL. I'm not sure if it will work the other way around too... And it doesn't play JAP games.

Saturn:

Saturn Universal Game Adaptor by Super UFO

- Supposed to play any region software on whatever Saturn you'd like to play them on. I haven't been able to test this as I only have European hardware.

[maxlords]

Know any other good places for this stuff?
I take it even with the converter any text will still be Japanese then?

Most of the older convertors are hell to find, and yes, they leave 99% of games in the laguage they're programmed in. Conveniently, some of the better Jp imports are IN English already (those wacky Japs!) and any PAL games will have an English language setting.

[Funk Buddy]

Know any other good places for this stuff?
I take it even with the converter any text will still be Japanese then?

What are you looking for?

There are no language convertors that I know of. That can be confusing when people call the region switch mod a "language switch". Like Max said a lot of games have English in them. You will find anywhere from just the title screen, title screen and menus, to the full game being in English. If you don't play RPGs, some adventure games and dating sims you'll be ok without English. This is one area Game FAQs is actually good for! O_O There are some Japanese members that do menu translations and or walk throughs to help in some games. Plus, there are a few Americans thrown in that speak the language and have done the same. If you see a title you're interested in give the site a look and see what's there if anything. Most of the obsure titles you're on your own, but main stream games should be there. Or you can check JVG Fanatic (http://www.jvgfanatic.com) for Japanese game info... if the site loads that is. He was moving and that URL doesn't work for me, I'll e mail and find out what's up.

[Dire 51]

I swear by my Magic Key III (Genesis), ST Key (SS) and Honeybee (NES).

[jaydubnb]

Anyone know the differences between the various Mega Keys?

I picked up a Super Mega Key for 20 beans not too long ago. It has the dip switches and what not. Is it the same thing as a "Mega Key"? Because thats what its says on the back of it.

[Captain Wrong]

This is an excellent topic. I'm stickying it so hopefully people will look here first for this info.

(Yeah...I know...it's a long shot, but you never know. :))

Also, let me throw in a few more...

Genny:

I believe the Game Shark will work in most cases. You may need to find the codes and enter them each time, which kinda sucks, but these are easy to find.

Saturn:

Some of the thrid party "mega" memory cards will bypass region lock out. I have one, I think it's an Innovation, and it works. An undocumented feature, for sure.

DC:

I mention this cautiously, but the infamous Utopia boot disc which you can find on the web is an excellent swap disc for imports. That's what I use and I've never had a problem.

[Bighab]

Datel Pro CDX cart: Plays Japanese and PAL MegaCD's on a US SegaCD.
72-60 pin adpater: Plays Nes games on a Gameaxe or Famicom system

Does anyone have or know where I can get a converter to play PAL games on my Snes?

[Funk Buddy]

Datel Pro CDX cart: Plays Japanese and PAL MegaCD's on a US SegaCD.
72-60 pin adpater: Plays Nes games on a Gameaxe or Famicom system

Does anyone have or know where I can get a converter to play PAL games on my Snes?

Check Lik-Sang.

[Dire 51]

DC:

I mention this cautiously, but the infamous Utopia boot disc which you can find on the web is an excellent swap disc for imports. That's what I use and I've never had a problem.

The Utopia disc I use from time to time has never given me a problem either.

[maxlords]

DC:

I mention this cautiously, but the infamous Utopia boot disc which you can find on the web is an excellent swap disc for imports. That's what I use and I've never had a problem.

The Utopia disc I use from time to time has never given me a problem either.

I agree. I DLed a Utopia disc and burned it and it works like a charm with EVERYTHING.

[Ruudos]

NES:
Game Key, it was already mentioned but there's also a version that looks like a Game Genie.

SNES:
Super Fire converter and Super Fire FX converter
First one isn't compatible with games that have the Super FX chip in them.
Second one partially works with Super Mario RPG and FInal Fantasy III, but screw up later in the game.

UD-29 Universal Adapter
Works with Super FX games. Doesn't work at all with Super Mario RPG. There's also an Upgrade version.

[Ruudos]

And I believe the Pro Action Replay, both for SNES and Genesis.

[Tetsu]

Saturn:

Super Pro Action Replay 5 in 1 +

The last converter you will ever need for your Saturn. It's a 4mb RAM cart, backup cart, cheat code device, memory manager, and region bypass. You can save your games on it, use it with games that use 1 or 4mb of RAM (like some of the fighting games), apply PAR codes and play Japanese games on American Saturns. The only problem is that these bad boys tend to die early. I had one for about 3 years, then suddenly it konked out. I bought another, and it's been going strong for 2 years so far. I've read that taking the cart out of the Saturn and putting it in creates some static that kills the chips, so I'm leaving it in there all the time.

Dreamcast:

Gameshark

I had some problems with the Utopia boot disc, namely with Capcom games. Marvel vs Capcom, Mars Matrix, and Street Fighter III Third Strike wouldn't load. No problems at all with the Gameshark, however, which is a boot disc and a memory card. Besides having codes for games on it (if you like that sort of thing), it plays all imports (at least all of mine) flawlessly, and the memory card can be used to save all games just like an official DC VMU. Complaint: The memory card is ugly as sin, a black card with the gameshark logo on the top that barely fits in the second DC controller slot and won't fit in the first at all. You'll have to put it in the second slot of a second controller if you want to use your jolt pack.

[MrKitt]

Dreamcast:

there are some games the Utopia BootCD's dont handle.. for instance.
US Time Stalkers on PAL DC
US EGG on PAL DC

reason is quite simple.. both games have PAL / RGB protection can be patched on backedup copys.. but still wont work using Orginal copies.

timestalkers do boot but screen looks totaly screwed up
egg immitates a boot and then fails and falls back to the dc title screen.

[VACRMH]

Most of the older convertors are hell to find, and yes, they leave 99% of games in the laguage they're programmed in. Conveniently, some of the better Jp imports are IN English already (those wacky Japs!) and any PAL games will have an English language setting.

Sorry that my post isn't about Convertors, but do you mean that some JP imports are released in the US in english, or in Japan in english?

And if it's the second guess, can you list some games? :D

[maxlords]

Most of the older convertors are hell to find, and yes, they leave 99% of games in the laguage they're programmed in. Conveniently, some of the better Jp imports are IN English already (those wacky Japs!) and any PAL games will have an English language setting.

Sorry that my post isn't about Convertors, but do you mean that some JP imports are released in the US in english, or in Japan in english?

And if it's the second guess, can you list some games? :D

I mean that some Japanese imports are released in Japan in English. Please feel free to start a thread asking about it and I'll list a few to get it going...trying to keep this thread about convertors! :D

[mrhaboobi]

TG16

KISADO : The best tg16 converter, works with all games and add on cards like Arcade Cards. Getting hard to find, expect to pay $$ for one..

TZD/Telegames Converters : Havent used one myself but have been informed they dont work with Arcade Cards ...

[liquidmetal]

i made my nes convertor...so easy..so cheap

[Vroomfunkel]

RIght. Megadrive converters ...

I have a fat bunch of these. And *NONE* of them will play my Yu Yu Hakushu game! I will give precise details when I've dug them all out and got the details.

I have a "Mega Key" and a "Mega Key 2", both without dip switches. I guess there must be different types of these since I am sure I have seen ones with switches as well.

If you have the right codes, you can use the Galoob Game Genie as an import converter - this is what i do with Yu Yu Hakushu at the moment.

I used to have a Nitro 2 Game Adapter, which did play Yu Yu Hakushu ... but foolishly I sold it with a bunch of stuff before I realised quite how irritatingly difficult it is to find any other converter that will play this game!!

I had a Datel Pro CDX cart for playing import Mega CD games - but it did not work with my Multimega. I believe that there was a different version released to be compatible with the Mega CD2 BIOS, it comes in a red box rather than the original greyish one. I haven't had a chance to try one of these yet. Both can go for anything between $40 - $80.

I currently have a "CD Plus" converter, which I am waiting to try out (should be getting Ninja Warriors in the post this week, which I will use to give it a test run).

There is also a program called "SCD_CONV" which you can use to change the region of an ISO of a Mega CD game. Since the Mega CD has no copy protection then you can just burn your altered ISO onto a CD and go. However the program is not 100% successful - I have tried it a few times. t worked on Dennin Aleste, but failed on Masked Rider Zo. I will also try it on Ninja Warriors when I get a chance.

There are no converters for the 32X as far as I am aware. Which sucks. I want to play some of those luvverly US 32X games that we didn't get. hmph!

Vroomfunkel

[hu6800]

TG16

KISADO : The best tg16 converter, works with all games and add on cards like Arcade Cards. Getting hard to find, expect to pay $$ for one..

TZD/Telegames Converters : Havent used one myself but have been informed they dont work with Arcade Cards ...


What about the pcengine ground mod?
The conversion to use a cdrom with a shuttle grafx ?
the converter to hook the supergrafx up to a pcengine cdrom drive?

and these fine pieces here...

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/games&.dnm=PARS.jpg

Pro action replays for snes and genesis.. 3 different models..

or..

I did this myself so i could have control over the 4 meg boost.

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/saturn+and+toys&.dnm=greysaturn3.jpg

letsee ,, what the hell else did i do....
oh yeah , my neo cart system had a switch on it to play import version from same cart.. i sold that unit though..

Omars saturn has a region switch hardwired to the board.

Dont know if this is a converter or not,, but it hooks up to the psx..
(i never used it though)

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/saturn+and+toys&.dnm=Drive2.jpg

This could be considered a converter.. for back up

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/FOR+SALE&.dnm=boosterplus.jpg

And the Tenokoe bank maybe...

the tv tuner is a add on that upgrades a turboexpress
http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/FOR+SALE&.dnm=express+side.jpg

This gameaxe uses a converter to play american NES carts...
http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/FOR+SALE&.dnm=gameaxe.jpg


but i loved this converter the most.. i owned two of these but
i sold them a while back ....

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/Instruments&.dnm=vDr64hu.jpg

[hu6800]

and these pieces right here

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/hu6800/detail?.dir=/Yahoo!+Photo+Album&.dnm=cards.jpg

[pango]

NES:http://nesworld.parodius.com/unines2.htm
This lets you play US games on a PAL system

[josekortez]

Also, the Cheats 'N Codes Volume 1 Gameshark disc kicks ass for import games on the Dreamcast. Plus, it's cheap. Mine booted my PAL copy of Rez when the Gameshark Lite wouldn't...

[dreamcaster]

Today I just got (well, I think it is), a Datel Pro CDX. Basically it's a black cartridge with "Pro CD X" written on a narrow label.

However, I put it in my Sega Mega Drive II (which is connected to my Mega CD II), and nothing happens.

I have cleaned the connector thoroughly but I still get a blank display.

I read earlier in the thread that there were two versions of these and my question is: how can I tell which I've got?

[Vroomfunkel]

There are indeed two. One has a black / blue box and label, and is for the Mega CD 1, and the other (harder to find) has a red/ black box and label and is for the Mega CD 2.

I am still looking for one, to see if it will work with my Multimega. Have tried the black/blue CDX, to no avail, and also tried a "CD Plus" cart, which also told me "not compatible with this BIOS" or something

Vroomfunkel

[maxlords]

As far as I know, none of the Datel carts are compatible with the CDX.

[flywheels]

I've read the posts that state some of the Mega Drive convertors won't play games w/ lock-out chips. I recently bought a complete boxed Golden Axe 3 for super cheap ($5), but my Genesis (model 3) won't play it b/c of a lock-out chip. This is the first Mega Drive game that I have bought that won't work without an adapter on the Genesis 3.

I was told the Nitro 2 convertor is the one to search for. Does anyone else know of a different convertor that will play games w/ lock-out chips?

[Vroomfunkel]

I am pretty sure that a Mega Key 3 will do the trick also. But the Nitro 2 is the only one I know for sure will do it. I just got a brand new one for $20 :)

I keep meaning to pick up a couple more GA3s .. then I could try it with the other converters I have kicking around here and give some feedback ..

Vroomfunkel

[drwily008]

Sega Saturn- Maybe newbies dont know this, but if you own a game shark and hold down A,C, and X then hit start, it will load up your JP saturn games. About $5 is an exceptional start to import gaming.

[LiquidPolicenaut]

On the subject of the Datel Sega/Mega CD convertors, neither of the versions will work on a Wondermega (if anyone cares LOL). Also, in regards to the scd-conv utility that changes the region code of a Japanese Mega CD to play on a Sega CD...has anyone tried the OPPOSITE way? Can you change the region code on a Sega CD to play on a Mega CD (specifically my Wondermega)? If so, has anyone done it with luck? I'm looking for a way to play my own legit copy of Snatcher on my Wondermega but cant unless someone can burn my copy and delete the region coding..

[Keir]

Of all the different converters that will let you play Japanese Hucards on a US system, does anyone know which is best for a Laseractive with the NEC module? Some of them look like they wouldn't even fit, the diving board kind looks like it would work but I'm afraid it's not going to be sturdy.

I didn't even care until I found out about Battle Lode Runner. Four-player Lode Runner? I’m all over that!

[Robin F.]

I've got a NES converter made by a Belgian company named Horeleg (how about that for a stupid name), it's the GameKey mentioned before in this thread. I've got the Game Genie shaped version, which doesn't require a local cartridge. Very cheap plastic, and even cheaper electronics. It's got two ICs in it, both of which had their part numbers sanded off :roll:

Now it doesn't work perfectly for me. Nearly all games have some graphic glitches, sometimes even making the game unplayable (Rad Racer). But the most annoying part is that the adapter seems to introduce a high-pitched noise into the sound system. This happens with any cart I plug in, even local games. I resoldered all solder points in the converter (like I said, very cheap electronics) but the problem remains.

Does anyone have similar problems with NES converters, or suggestions for a solution? I was thinking RFI issues, could extra shielding or maybe capacitors across power supply lines help? Any electronics experts here?

[esquire]

SNES

Super 8 by Innovation allows yoy to play NES, Famicom and SFC games on the SNES

Genesis

Game Genie by Codemasters allows you to play JAP NTSC Mega Drive games on Genesis models 1 and 2. I have not tried any PAL Mega Drive Games on it yet.

[BloodshedPlague]

Does anyone know of a converter for PS2 games?

[maxlords]

Does anyone know of a converter for PS2 games?

THere's no such thing as a convertor for PS2 yet that I know of. You install a mod chip or rig your system for a swap disc trick. Either one is equally risky. That's it. I recommend gettinga Jp PS2 if you can.

[esquire]

Does anyone know of a converter for PS2 games?

THere's no such thing as a convertor for PS2 yet that I know of. You install a mod chip or rig your system for a swap disc trick. Either one is equally risky. That's it. I recommend gettinga Jp PS2 if you can.

There are several routes you can go, one being a modchip, which I have installed with no risk at all. Sure it took some effort to install it, but as long as you are good with a solder gun, you'll be ok. I've been using my modded PS2 for over 2 years now with no problem.

Another way to go is to use a swap disc. A local importer swears by a product called "Swap Magic 3.0." Here is their link

http://www.swapmagic3.com/

[BloodshedPlague]

Thank you very much for the help guys. I think I'll stick with getting a JP PS2, but still your help is much appreciated. Now to the new JP PS2 shmups.

[MegaManFan]

Don't think I've seen anybody mention the Freeloader yet, but it's a great swap disc import enabler for GameCube.

Does anybody know where I can get a Mega Key? Every time I've tried to buy one on ePay the listing gets cancelled. I need one so I can play The Wily Wars (I tried it on my Nomad and still got a lockout message).

[Kepone]

Did anyone mention this?

NES

Famicom adaptor. Cheap. Can be found in some earlier NES games like Gyromite. You open up the game, take it off and use it.

Just wondering. Wasn't sure if anyone had mentioned it.

[dj898]

Of all the different converters that will let you play Japanese Hucards on a US system, does anyone know which is best for a Laseractive with the NEC module? Some of them look like they wouldn't even fit, the diving board kind looks like it would work but I'm afraid it's not going to be sturdy.

I didn't even care until I found out about Battle Lode Runner. Four-player Lode Runner? I’m all over that!

i'd be interested what kisado(?) converter looks like?
I already have two different types of converters.

cheers

[evilmess]

Will a gameshark work for playing imports on an N64?

Either the GAMESHARK VERSION 2.1 or GAMESHARK PRO 3.0 or 3.3?

For use with Sin and Punishment

[esquire]

I am pretty sure that a Mega Key 3 will do the trick also. But the Nitro 2 is the only one I know for sure will do it. I just got a brand new one for $20 :)

I keep meaning to pick up a couple more GA3s .. then I could try it with the other converters I have kicking around here and give some feedback ..

Vroomfunkel

I just picked up Xenon 2 for European Mega Drive and went to play it using my Game Genie, but with no luck, of course I didn't have any codes for it. The message says it will only work on a European Mega Drive. I suppose this must be the region lockout. So I need to get a new convertor. Which one do you recommend? Magic Key, Mega Key, or Nitro 2? Also is the Honey Bee just a straight through skeleton converter? Thanks!

[Vroomfunkel]

I heartily recomend the Nitro 2 - I have not found anything that it will not play, on any system. However, I just got a Magic Key III today, which I have heard very good things about. I'm gonna give it a whirl when I get back tonight, with Alien Soldier and Mega Man on the Nomad, and see what it can do.

Vroomfunkel

[maxlords]

I recommend the Mega Key myself. It plays everything including the lockoout games with no issues.

[flywheels]

I heartily recomend the Nitro 2 - I have not found anything that it will not play, on any system.

Question is though, just where can you find a Nitro 2 converter?!

[Vroomfunkel]

The trouble with Mega Key adapters is that there are a large amount of adapters floating around that call themselves "Mega Key" adapters, and not all of them do work with lockout carts. I have been stung by that one before :/

In my opinion, the Nitro 2 is a safe bet, because as far as I know there aren't any dodgy knock-offs of it that also call themselves "Nitro 2". If you get a Nitro 2 then you know you've got the real deal ...

Vroomfunkel

P.S. In answer to previous question .. watch my auctions :D

[esquire]

The trouble with Mega Key adapters is that there are a large amount of adapters floating around that call themselves "Mega Key" adapters, and not all of them do work with lockout carts. I have been stung by that one before :/

In my opinion, the Nitro 2 is a safe bet, because as far as I know there aren't any dodgy knock-offs of it that also call themselves "Nitro 2". If you get a Nitro 2 then you know you've got the real deal ...

Vroomfunkel

P.S. In answer to previous question .. watch my auctions :D

Do you have a link to your auctions? Not sure if you go by the same name on ebay?

[Vroomfunkel]

Nitro 2 + Alien Soldier:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=8148057773

Magic Key III + Mega Man: The Wily Wars:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=8148057812

Both tested on territory locked games (Alien Soldier, Mega Man, Yu Yu Hakushu Battle) and work fine.

Don't know if I already mentioned this, but there is a code for the Game Genie that will allow you to play Yu Yu Hakushu, which is a territory locked game. I don't know if the same code will work for all others, but it might be worth a try.

Vroomfunkel

[dreamcaster]

I just bought a Datel Universal Adapter for my Mega Drive.

And I can't seem to get it to work in either my Mega Drive, or Mega Drive II.

When I first put it in, it came up with a yellow screen. Now, it's nothing more than a black display. Connectors have been cleaned, and still no result.

It also has a two-setting switch on the side.

I don't want to assume it's broken, because my Datel Pro CDX cartridge did the same thing when I first bought it. Now it works perfectly.

I'd appreciate any help anyone can provide on getting this thing to work!

[dj898]

any idea how to use this thing?

http://img155.exs.cx/img155/2774/dsc001805iq.jpg

cheers

[GunPanther]

any idea how to use this thing?

http://img155.exs.cx/img155/2774/dsc001805iq.jpg

cheers


Yes. I have one almost exactly like it attached to my old model Playstation.

Mine is called the "Gold Finger", but it has the exact same shape and design of an Action Replay.

Anyway, that particular device in the picture is designed for the first and second generation Playstation (32-bit) consoles, which still have the I/O port on the back/right of the console.

Once you plug that puppy into the I/O port, you can toggle the switch on (up) or off (down).

It works as not only a Gameshark/Action Replay, where you input codes to 'hack' the PS1 games, but it should also work as a 'media' viewer where you can access ".bin" movie and sound files straight from the PS1 disc.

In addition to the above mentioned features, it also acts as a Memory Card manager that has a seemingly more presentable (IMHO) appearance as opposed to the standard PS1 Memory Manager.


Hope this info helps.





:rockets: GunPanther :2gunfire:

[dj898]

great thanks!

about your PAL TV issue your only bet will be one of those PAL->NTSC device from like lik-sang or others...

we PAL users don't have such problem as our PAL TV can sync with pretty much anything - well as long as within PAL/NTSC/SECAM spec... o_O

[blue lander]

I've always preferred modding a system over converters. It just adds another step you have to take when you want to play a game. Here are some alternatives to adapters:

Turbografx-16: I added a switch, allowing me to switch between PC Engine and Turbografx-16 modes. It seems to work perfectly, but installing it required a lot of wiring. I hear the import adapters for the TG-16 can be a little twitchy, whereas this works all the time.

Genesis 3: The Genesis 3 already has a slot large enough to take Japanese Megadrive games, so no modding is needed there. To get past the software lockout, I sort of had to use trial and error since my circuit board was laid out totally differently than the examples on GameSX. I rigged it up so that all you have to do is hold down the reset button while powering it up to make it enter Megadrive mode. Seems to work on all games with no hassle. It was worth the effort, since the mod is just one wire.

Sega CD: I've used SCD_Conv and wasn't happy with the results. Some of the games I wanted to play wouldn't work, and I didn't want to have to burn copies of all Mega CD games. I also didn't want to pay out the nose for one of those adapter cartridges. I ended up adding a multibios instead. With the flip of a switch, I can change it from Sega CD to MegaCD modes, and it works with every game I've tried with it. I also tried making a single universal BIOS by altering the boot code, but I discovered the code I'd need to change is compressed and I don't know the compression algorithm.

[CasualCoreGamer]

TurboGrafx:

"Diving Board" style converter. It's pale green & the official name for it escapes me at this time. Since I only have a copy of Wonder Momo (which works fine), I don't know how reliable it is with the rest of the PC Engine library.

NES:

A converter that I liberated from a copy of Gyromite. Since the cart bay on my standard issue NES is deep for a Fami cart w/converter, I think I'm gonna scoop up a Neo Fami instead.

[Tron 2.0]

Of all the different converters that will let you play Japanese Hucards on a US system, does anyone know which is best for a Laseractive with the NEC module? Some of them look like they wouldn't even fit, the diving board kind looks like it would work but I'm afraid it's not going to be sturdy.

I didn't even care until I found out about Battle Lode Runner. Four-player Lode Runner? I’m all over that!

i'd be interested what kisado(?) converter looks like?
I already have two different types of converters.

cheers
http://www.tzd.com/images/422.jpg

[Tron 2.0]

[quote=mrhaboobi]TG16
the converter to hook the supergrafx up to a pcengine cdrom drive?

To hu6800

It's not realy a converter it's just a adapter to use the (SuperGrafix) on the (PCE cd-rom drive).Still it's not the only way to, play (PCE-CD) games on a SuperGrafix.Just find a Super CD-rom II unit and plug the SG in 'no adapters needed at all :D

[dj898]

like this...

http://members.optushome.com.au/currypuff1/photos/pce_supergrafx1.jpg

[Immutable]

Did anyone mention this?

NES

Famicom adaptor. Cheap. Can be found in some earlier NES games like Gyromite. You open up the game, take it off and use it.

Just wondering. Wasn't sure if anyone had mentioned it.

Yeah, finding those things can be easy if you use this technique.

http://www.planetnintendo.com/thewarpzone/famadapt.html

[Immutable]

Sorry, double post...

[Speedy_NES]

Two for the NES that have not yet been mentioned:

Magic Key: Similar to the Game Key adaptor, allows you to play US NTSC games on your PAL system. It is shaped like a Game Genie, and thus very similar to one of the Game Key variants.

Family Adaptor (Honey Bee): this Famicom-to-NES converter is unlike the common Family Converter from Honey Bee. It comes in the size of a whole cartridge with a small extension in which the Famicom cartridge is plugged into. Compared to the Family Converter and other half-cartridge sized Famicom-to-NES converters, the Family Adaptor is inferior as its connection piece on the top is not very sturdy, and of course due to its larger size.

-Speedy

[kainemaxwell]

Anyone hear of this N64 adapter in this auction:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=8215275877&ssPageName=STRK:MEBI:IT

[dj898]

probably simple passthrough adapter to bypass the physical tabs...

[Sailorneorune]

I have a question about the Dreamcast Gameshark CDX.

Will it work with PAL games? I've been eyeing a fairly reasonably priced Shenmue II that's been rotting away on a shelf at a local game shop, and if my Gameshark will indeed play PAL games, I believe that copy of Shenmue II will be mine.

Information please.

Thanks.
sailorneorune

[phreak97]

any idea how to use this thing?

http://img155.exs.cx/img155/2774/dsc001805iq.jpg

cheers

dunno if it's been said, but these also let you play imports (and backups). they usually come with a spring to hold the button inside the disc door down. if not, just jam something in there. basically i think what you do is start the psx with a legit game in and the cart switched on, put your import in, then start the game through the menu. if yours doesnt support that, either get one which does, or i can reflash them here, as i have a pc isa card to match these game enhancers. i wont charge for it, all you gotta do is pay shipping to australia and back again.

if you have one of these which does nothing, or crashes the psx, it is entirely possible the bios is corrupt, reflashing it can also fix this.

[dj898]

mate I'm in Sydney. :D

it's good mate, That thing works fine.
I do get another one called Gold Finger that apart from running "backups" also let you play gameboy roms... ???
No idea how to use that feature though...

[Spartacus]

Well, I'm suprised nobody's mentioned this yet because it's the best damn 60-72 pin famicom/nes adapter I've owned! LOL
http://i2.tinypic.com/or05zr.jpg


This is a GoldenKey 72-60 pin nes/famicom adapter by Sachen. There's a dip switch on the back of the adapter and the box says it will play PAL carts also. I didn't have any PAL carts to test, but it worked just fine playing famicom games in my toaster and top loader. It's got a nice solid handle for yanking it out of toasters with those death grip replacement pin connectors you find on Ebay!
http://i2.tinypic.com/or07fc.jpg
http://i2.tinypic.com/or07m1.jpg


I don't know who makes this nes/famicom adapter. Just says T89 on it. Has a nice ribbon to it, but I don't push my luck with it and only use it on my top loader. Works perfect for me.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or07xk.jpg


This is the Game Saver by Naki. It let's me play SFC carts on my SNES just fine, but doesn't let me play PAL carts. The really weird thing is that it won't play Captain Novolin either! Don't know why it refuses to play a North American cart on a SNES.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or12yr.jpg
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1381.jpg


This is a HoneyBee adapter for the SNES and is my favorite by far! This thing plays SFC and PAL carts without any problem. Just needs a North American cart to be plugged in also and it works every time!
http://i2.tinypic.com/or13fa.jpg
http://i2.tinypic.com/or13pc.jpg


This is a Wonder adapter for the N64. Don't know who makes it. Just a simple pass thru device that let's me play my entire collection of Japanese N64 games (all four!) on my N64. Works everytime! LOL
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1j7r.jpg


For the Sega Genesis I have this Super Mega Key by Realtec. It has dip switches on the back that let's me play both Japanese and PAL Mega Drive carts with lockout chips. I tested it with a Genny 1, Genny 2, and a CDX and it works excellent with all three.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1jk7.jpg
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1lvt.jpg


For the Sega Saturn I have something called Ultra Madness. It has a dip switch that changes it from 1mb to 4mb Ram. Never had a box to it, so I don't know who makes it. Let's me play Japanese Saturn games on my North American system without any cheat code nonsense.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1m4h.jpg


For the Sega Dreamcast I have a Paradise CD Loader. I have a suspicion that this is simply a Utopia boot disk that has been packaged and sold. It works playing Japanese Dreamcast games on my North American system and that's all I care about.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or31bm.jpg


For the Playstation I have something called a Boot Disk. Really nice product that works playing both Japanese and PAL games with my PlayStations and PSOne's. It doesn't change the output of PAL games, but does load them without a hitch. Very simple to use and comes with a spring for PlayStations and a stick-on latch tab for PSOne's. Plus, this company has it's own web site that has tons of patches for those who care to burn a copy of thier game and alter region codes or add cheats codes built in. Excellent product!
http://i2.tinypic.com/or31n7.jpg
http://i2.tinypic.com/or31qx.jpg


And last but not least is something I just picked up a week or two ago to kick around and try out. It's a PAL to NTSC output converter by May Flash. It seems to do everything but change the 50hz signal to 60hz. In other words you get color and Y positioning corrected, but the screen still rolls. It's actually very primitive and only works with composite cables, but I wanted to see what would happened if I used it. There's an alternate version too that converts NTSC to PAL. As I'm just now beginning to understand, PAL region TV's are much more flexible about changes in Hz and this works much better for them. There are far more expensive and capable products out there to convert PAL signals for NTSC TV's and there are also Multisystem TV's for sale here that accept PAL signals for anyone who's serious about it. Did I learn anything from my little experiment? Well, yes actually! I found that if I put the PAL game's display in my PIP while using this converter, the color and Y position was corrected and the roll disappeared! Very strange! Not an ideal solution, but interesting none the less!
http://i2.tinypic.com/or321d.jpg
http://i2.tinypic.com/or328l.jpg

[dj898]

This is a Wonder adapter for the N64. Don't know who makes it. Just a simple pass thru device that let's me play my entire collection of Japanese N64 games (all four!) on my N64. Works everytime! LOL
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1j7r.jpg


Aye! I have the same thing to play US carts on JPN Skeleton/Grey N64



For the Sega Genesis I have this Super Mega Key by Realtec. It has dip switches on the back that let's me play both Japanese and PAL Mega Drive carts with lockout chips. I tested it with a Genny 1, Genny 2, and a CDX and it works excellent with all three.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1jk7.jpg


Mine says MagickKey III and comes in different packaging.
Maybe updated version?
Since having only JPN carts never used it on my Sega Wondermega...



For the Sega Saturn I have something called Ultra Madness. It has a dip switch that changes it from 1mb to 4mb Ram. Never had a box to it, so I don't know who makes it. Let's me play Japanese Saturn games on my North American system without any cheat code nonsense.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or1m4h.jpg


I used to use EMS 4-1+ cart though now using region moded JPN Saturn.



For the Sega Dreamcast I have a Paradise CD Loader. I have a suspicion that this is simply a Utopia boot disk that has been packaged and sold. It works playing Japanese Dreamcast games on my North American system and that's all I care about.
http://i2.tinypic.com/or31bm.jpg


I chipped mine for the convenience sake.
I do have CodeBreaker but it's pain in the backside to use the boot disc. :p



For the Playstation I have something called a Boot Disk. Really nice product that works playing both Japanese and PAL games with my PlayStations and PSOne's. It doesn't change the output of PAL games, but does load them without a hitch. Very simple to use and comes with a spring for PlayStations and a stick-on latch tab for PSOne's. Plus, this company has it's own web site that has tons of patches for those who care to burn a copy of thier game and alter region codes or add cheats codes built in. Excellent product!
http://i2.tinypic.com/or31n7.jpg


I have green DebugStation so no need for the boot disc.
Though I actually use chipped PS1 for play most of time.

And being in PAL land our TV supports PAL/NTSC and anything in between. No need for signal converter...
Though I use RGB->YUV transcoder for those consoles I have the RGB cables for...

[MrSmiley381]

Well, I've been reading up on the Swap Magic and flip top mod for PS2. Anyone have any problems with it? I'm hoping to play Vampire Chronicles, KOF, and new stuff like that.

[klausien]

Of all the different converters that will let you play Japanese Hucards on a US system, does anyone know which is best for a Laseractive with the NEC module? Some of them look like they wouldn't even fit, the diving board kind looks like it would work but I'm afraid it's not going to be sturdy.

I didn't even care until I found out about Battle Lode Runner. Four-player Lode Runner? I’m all over that!

i'd be interested what kisado(?) converter looks like?
I already have two different types of converters.

cheers
http://www.tzd.com/images/422.jpg

That's not a Kisado, THIS is a KISADO! (sorry 56k!)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v695/klausien/Kisado.jpg

Actually, the converter Tron 2.0 has pictured is the Mirai Adapter. They were manufactured relatively recently, I believe in Australia, for TZD from custom made parts. Thus the high price. The Kisado was conceived and manufactured by David Shadoff. Not sure how many are out there, but they are definitely on the rare and expensive side. TZD recently had a few they found up on their site for $149.99. I had one in the mid-'90s that I ended up selling for what I paid ($34.99) on the Turbolist. BIG mistake. Yeah, I spent the $150 at TZD to replace it. I know that I could/should have just gotten the Mirai, but I just had get that Kisado back. It was an obsession.

The Kisado is near 100% effective. Worth the price if you need to play the Arcade Card. Can't vouch for the Mirai, though I'm sure it's great and leagues better than the Purple Barney or the Green Diving Board.

Here is another picture of the Kisado (with game inserted):

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v695/klausien/Kisadosfii.jpg

[Sailorneorune]

I have recently received an Action Replay 4-in-1 for the Saturn... I have this and an ST Key. Is the AR supposed to have a switch of some kind between the 1M and 4M settings? I tried to use this in my Saturn and nothing works (testing with Vampire Savior and X-Men vs. Street Fighter). Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
-sailorneorune

P.S. The ST Key works.

[Tron 2.0]

Of all the different converters that will let you play Japanese Hucards on a US system, does anyone know which is best for a Laseractive with the NEC module? Some of them look like they wouldn't even fit, the diving board kind looks like it would work but I'm afraid it's not going to be sturdy.

I didn't even care until I found out about Battle Lode Runner. Four-player Lode Runner? I’m all over that!

i'd be interested what kisado(?) converter looks like?
I already have two different types of converters.

cheers
http://www.tzd.com/images/422.jpg

That's not a Kisado, THIS is a KISADO! (sorry 56k!)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v695/klausien/Kisado.jpg

Actually, the converter Tron 2.0 has pictured is the Mirai Adapter. They were manufactured relatively recently, I believe in Australia, for TZD from custom made parts. Thus the high price. The Kisado was conceived and manufactured by David Shadoff. Not sure how many are out there, but they are definitely on the rare and expensive side. TZD recently had a few they found up on their site for $149.99. I had one in the mid-'90s that I ended up selling for what I paid ($34.99) on the Turbolist. BIG mistake. Yeah, I spent the $150 at TZD to replace it. I know that I could/should have just gotten the Mirai, but I just had get that Kisado back. It was an obsession.

The Kisado is near 100% effective. Worth the price if you need to play the Arcade Card. Can't vouch for the Mirai, though I'm sure it's great and leagues better than the Purple Barney or the Green Diving Board.

Here is another picture of the Kisado (with game inserted):

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v695/klausien/Kisadosfii.jpg
Well i didn't know they look "similar" to me no wounder i got them confuse.

Heck, TZD never bother to listed what type of converter it was in the frist place.

Dunno still i find spending $ for a converter is a waste these days.

I find having a region switch put in for a duo or a tg16 a lot cheaper.

[MrSmiley381]

I have recently received an Action Replay 4-in-1 for the Saturn... I have this and an ST Key. Is the AR supposed to have a switch of some kind between the 1M and 4M settings? I tried to use this in my Saturn and nothing works (testing with Vampire Savior and X-Men vs. Street Fighter). Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
-sailorneorune

P.S. The ST Key works.

With the 4M plus it's supposed to auto-detect. When it's properly inserted you'll get a screen when you start up your Saturn. There's some menu options and a Start Game option. If you don't get this screen, restart the Saturn after plugging the 4M plus in again. Otherwise, you may have a broken 4M plus.