Best products from r/retrogaming

We found 108 comments on r/retrogaming discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 593 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.

Top comments mentioning products on r/retrogaming:

u/authorblues · 1 pointr/retrogaming

The standard elgato may not be a great choice for twitch, since there is a ~2 second delay that can be a bit of an annoyance.

You basically need:
A capture card
GV-USB2 is pretty great quality for SD, but installing the drivers is entirely in japanese. They're pretty easy to figure out by just hitting random buttons and guessing, but people have made guides for "hit these buttons in this order". Once you set it up, it'll work perfectly from then on. The Dazzle DVC 100 used to be a pretty common choice, but I think the GV-USB2 is honestly better (I have a Dazzle, and even I'll admit the GV-USB2 is better).

As far as a splitter/switch, unpowered splitter cables would be fine, such as these plugged into the side of your NES, just make sure you get RCA cables that match up to go to your TV and to your capture card. If you want to get the best picture quality, a powered splitter/switch like this one will give a slightly better picture and will give you room to hook up more consoles as well (since it is a switch as well).

As for software, the standard entry-level streaming software is OBS, and for free software, it honestly is pretty great. If you want to spend money, there's some other good stuff out there, but OBS does everything you'd probably want to do. If you want something a bit better for a timer than your iPhone, try LiveSplit. You can setup splits to keep track of your pace (though considering how short the WR is, just a basic timer is probably fine, this will just allow you to let people watching on youtube or twitch see your timer too).

If you need any help otherwise, let me know.

u/mrpopsicleman · 3 pointsr/retrogaming

Anyone remember the infamous Miyamoto quotes where he says DKC was not good? Apparently, they came from an interview with Steven L. Kent in the May 1995 issue of Electronic Games magazine. I've never read that issue, but Kent did reprint the quote in his book "The Ultimate History of Video Games" (great book btw).

> An interesting story lies behind Yoshi's Island. When Shigeru Miyamoto first demonstrated the game to Nintendo's marketing department, it was rejected because it had Mario-related graphics rather than the waxy, prerendered graphics of Donkey Kong Country. Rather than change to an artistic look he did not like, Miyamoto made the game even more cartoon-like, giving it a hand-drawn look. The second version was accepted

> Miyamoto, who is rightfully proud of his work, was offended that the first version was rejected. That same month, I interviewed Miyamoto and Tim Stamper, creator of Donkey Kong Country, together and noticed that Miyamoto was a bit hard on Stamper, making such statements as "Donkey Kong Country proves that players will put up with mediocre gameplay as long as the art is good."

> In a later interview, Miyamoto admitted that Yoshi's Island had been a touchy subject at the time:

> "I think that it happened after Donkey Kong Country was introduced. In comparison with the graphics of the Super Donkey Kong, there was not enough punch to Yoshi's Island. That was what I was told by the marketing people."

> "I intensified my hand-drawn touch on Yoshi's Island from the initial part of the program. Everybody else was saying that they wanted better hardware and more beautiful graphics instead of this art."

> "Even while I was working on the Super Mario World, I was thinking that the next hero should be Yoshi. Other people have created games based upon Yoshi. . . . Yoshi's World Hunters, Yoshi's Egg, Yoshi's Cookie, and so forth--games that I don't really like. So I decided that I should make an authentic Yoshi game."

Kent also repeated it on an episode of G4's Icons about DK.

I was glad that Miyamoto addressed this to IGN in 2010. For years, people used that quote as a lame excuse to hate on the DKC series.

> IGN: I was interviewing them earlier, and even though you weren't directly involved you were definitely very inspirational in making sure certain things were done in that game correctly. I'm wondering, which parts of Donkey Kong Country did you like versus not like? And what did you address with them?

> Miyamoto: The first point that I want to make is that I actually worked very closely with Rare on the original Donkey Kong Country. And apparently recently some rumor got out that I didn't really like that game? I just want to clarify that that's not the case, because I was very involved in that. And even emailing almost daily with Tim Stamper right up until the end.

Kinda like IGN founder Peer Schneider there in the above linked Icons video:

> "It's the epitome of bad game design. You're asked to collect all these different things that really don't do anything for the player. 5000 bananas. Yay, what does it get me? Nothing. It's just to keep you occupied and make you walk through the same levels again."

He pretty much just described most video games.

u/Shadowtek · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

Definitely use the Svideo, if you don't want to go the SCART to Component route. I used Svideo cables coming out of the SNES/N64 and they go into a switch that handles svideo and composite RCA(Red, White, Yellow) Cables. Then the switch outputs everything over one svideo cable into the svideo port and the sound I run into the red/white. [Switcher similar to mine] (http://www.amazon.com/C2G-Cables-28750-Composite-Selector/dp/B0032ANC8M)


Best N64/SNES Svideo cable is this one but there are cheaper ones out there too but your mileage will vary. Those cables can be found on ebay usually for more the $50 range. So Run your NES over the composite RCA into the switch, your SNES/N64 into the switch via svideo, and then use just the svideo out on your switch and the red/white audio out because svideo only carries video not audio.


If you really want to get into RGB/SCART/COMPONENT Setups, I'd look at the other posts and also here If you want to do that, you'll need SCART cables for your SNES and 64, then need to run them into a box like [this] (http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-SCART-RGB-to-YUV-Component-Video-Converter-Scaler-/221156873851) And you'll need to split out audio like [this] (http://forums.shoryuken.com/discussion/157395/adding-audio-to-the-cvs287-scart-to-component-converter) also you might need a SCART switch to run from the consoles into SCART switch then out put in SCART to the converter box then from the converter box to the Component on your TV. Also your N64 will need to be modded for RGB output and your NES will too.


The SNES is the only one in your setup outputting full RGB by default. Honestly un-modded Composite is the best you get for NES and Svideo for N64(some even say composite is better for N64 depending on the model and chipsets in the N64).



I've toyed with that setup but honestly Svideo on the old Sony Trinitron looks great to me. Also monster cables are well known for quality, good insulation, etc. So I have some RCA composite Monster cables, the Svideo ones, and a few random RCA ones too.

u/aol_cd_stack · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

I've been collecting SNES games and accessories lately after having a PC and some USB controllers hooked up to my TV for several years (after selling my SNES collection for less than what 3 of the games were worth now...). I prefer playing on the original hardware for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, it seems to me that other, non-nerdy friends who come over to my house, are more apt to see my pretty large SNES collection and actually notice a game that they like and remember, and want to play the game, rather than being presented with a huge list of a thousand titles that they have to scroll through. (Maybe this would be more of a problem if I had 1000+ cartridges? Someday maybe!)

Second, the controllers are better on the real thing. I was using the iBuffalo controllers mentioned a few times in this thread, but they just don't quite feel as nice as real SNES controllers. Maybe someone could mess with some kind of adapter setup to make real SNES controllers work on a computer. I'm sure that's not too difficult.

Last, the old hardware is kind of fun to collect. I now generally play SNES games with a modded Super Famicom, an N64 SCART cable, and a SCART to HDMI upscaler (http://amzn.to/1OJbpLE) that looks really sharp on my 50" LCD TV. I also enjoy bargain hunting for game cartridges, it's a fun hunt and you get to meet some interesting people and talk about old video games :)

u/garasensei · 3 pointsr/retrogaming

With your n64 the best it can do without a mod is Svideo. Nintendo branded cables are priced more as a collectors item. Thefoo sells an excellent version

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F173606272632

You can step it up and rgb mod your n64. The hottest board even has a deblur function that helps clean up the image. The n64 in my experience does not scale nearly as well as other systems. Stick to Svideo unless you really love the system and will be putting a lot of time into it.

Psx and ps2 are much more simple. They both support rgb without a mod. Stick to YPbPr (component) on the ps2. It's nearly as good as rgb and much easier to get working. Get hd retrovisions ps2 cable. It's new and as good or better than the official cables. Official will run you as much or more and be used.

HD Retrovision PlayStation 2 (PS2) PlayStation 3 (PS3) Premium YPbPr Component Video Cable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H3F94ZN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_c7L1BbSF0NXZ0

As for the psx there are several sites making that cable. Get a psx rgb scart cable. Make sure you get euro scart and the proper adapter to plug into your framemeister.

Good luck! Feel free to ask questions

u/OdinRage02 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Here is the switcher that I use. My tv has s video input so it works great because I can use systems that output s video or composite with this one. Here is an s video cable that would work for both your SNES and your N64. Here is a composite cable that would work with your model 1 Sega Genesis, and Here would be am example of composite cables that would work with you NES.

As for the surge protector, here is the one I use and I really like it because it can hold a lot of the big power bricks that these older consoles like to use. Anyway hope that helped point you in the right direction. Of course it is a little bit of an investment, but overall I bet you will be much happier with a set up like this. I know personally I could never go back to constantly physically switching consoles out when I want to play them, this makes it so much easier to enjoy all my consoles with minimal effort. Good luck on your set up!

u/DGolden · 1 pointr/retrogaming

The first game I remember playing is COMBAT on my cousin's Atari 2600. It wasn't actually new out at the time as it was released before I was born.

My parents got a C64 primarily for word processing and allowed gaming on it, then upgraded to a C128 (with its builtin machine code monitor) There are dozens of us. dozens. Obviously the C64 has its enormous game library, with some really good ones. Very few games used the C128's modest additional features but it was essentially fully C64 backward-compatible.

Then a succession of more and more powerful/upgraded Amigas, the Amiga pretty much blew its contemporaries out of the water and certainly the C64. A lot games you've probably heard of started on the Amiga, and were later ported to other platforms more common in the USA.

Obviously the PC eventually caught up with the Amiga through brute force and ignorance (and of course commodore's legendary managerial incompetence) in the 1990s, but it took a long time. Eventually had to get a PC for university though (mostly running linux), did some gaming on it, mostly Descent series, love that 6dof.

The Playstation 1 came out when I was necessarily somewhat focussed on secondary school final exams (Irish points system, your secondary school hiscore decides what you do in uni :-/ ) and off to university. My brother and various friends had playstations though, so I played the odd playstation game, and I do still favor the playstation's now-iconic joypad design.

My brother also acquired gameboy eventually, eventually progressing to gameboy advance, and I still have a gameboy micro somewhere (very well made tiny piece of hardware, sort of a gameboy advance swan-song).

I was always into programming etc. not just gaming too, so while I casually played other people's consoles happily enough they were meh and I preferred having a computer. I never finished any amateur game dev project, hah, but I still mess about sometimes. Happy enough emulating old platforms now though for bouts of retrogaming.

u/Hybrid_Divide · 5 pointsr/retrogaming

If you have good N64 controllers, consider a USB Adapter.

If you want something basic, go with this Mayflash N64 USB Adapter: https://www.amazon.com/MAYFLASH-N64-Controller-Adapter-Pc/dp/B002B9FIUU/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Mayflash+n64+adapter&qid=1570001200&sr=8-1

I haven't tried the Mayflash adapter yet, but I gave one to a friend, and she seems happy with it.

If you want something really good, try this one. It even has Controller Pak and Rumble Pak Support!: https://www.raphnet-tech.com/products/dual_n64_to_usb_adapter/index.php

Raphnet makes a ton of really good adapters for lots of different consoles.

Happy Gaming!

u/ugzz · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

Absolutely, svideo is worlds better. Especially for capture.

RGB is the next level, it has potential to be as clear and noise free as a modern HD signal. You can get the cables on ebay or wherever for about $20. However nothing really uses that plug, so you have to use an upscaler or converter. The nice ones are $$$ (like 200 and up), but you can get cheap ones that work pretty well. I've used this exact setup with my modded N64 (modded to use RGB with snes cables). [retrogamingcables] (https://www.retrogamingcables.co.uk/super-nintendo-entertainment-system-famicom-snes-n64-rgb-av-scart-cable-ntsc-tv-lead-wire-cord?tracking=5543fb4c077bb) and [component box amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/SPECIALTY-AV-SCART-Component-Converter-Genesis/dp/B004XSSDPO). I found the converter box for $35 on ebay. So all in was just over $50, and the quality was like a 10x jump.

There's plenty of other options too, that's just the first setup i messed with and i was perfectly happy with it.

u/maverick_gunn · 12 pointsr/retrogaming

On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JYW96Q2

I wanted the CRT effect but didn't really want to find a 100lb monstrosity sitting on my office desk (I already have the Trinitron for the consoles). It's not perfect and of course isn't the same as a real CRT, but it really looks pretty good for the $30 it cost, and best of all processes the entire image so I don't have to try to run filters for the games themselves. It really looks pretty solid, all things considered.

u/yayitsdan · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I don't know if I've ever seen a gpu with any kind of video input. I'm not saying that they don't exist, but I've never heard of it. Honestly, I think OP is confused on what he's looking for.

OP, why do you want to plug in a console into a GPU rather than a monitor? If the goal is to get the console on a monitor, you'll need some kind of capture card (that accepts what your console outputs) and software or just an upscaler hooked up to the monitor.

I recommend getting an upscaler unless you're trying to record yourself playing. The problem you might have is getting one that can separate video and sound since your monitor doesn't have hdmi.


Edit: Probably the easiest thing that would work for you is getting something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Mini-Composite-CVBS-Converter-Input/dp/B00I482KZI/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1457981421&sr=1-1&keywords=composite+to+hdmi+upscaler

Since your monitor doesn't have hdmi, you'll need a hdmi to dvi cable like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Mini-Composite-CVBS-Converter-Input/dp/B00I482KZI/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1457981421&sr=1-1&keywords=composite+to+hdmi+upscaler

For sound, you'll need to figure out if you can send the red and white cables to your speakers. Do your speakers have a stereo or rca jacks? If they don't, you'll probably have to convert the rca to stereo:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000A88L9E?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

and get a stereo coupler like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-107230-Stereo-Adaptor-Plated/dp/B004C87WQ6/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1457981876&sr=1-1&keywords=stereo+coupler

u/darkchylde28 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I just read through the original post and the comments following and am confused. If the TV in question has HDMI, component (NOT composite aka RCA aka yellow/red/white) and S-Video, then it most certainly does accept RGB natively, as component is literally plugs for Red Green and Blue, separately. According to a list of specs for the model mentioned (here), the unit supports both component and composite.

Without modding anything, the highest video quality for the NES will be composite, no matter what converters you hook them up to, as you're only changing the base video format (composite) into a compatible signal, not improving it in any way. Similarly, for the SNES and N64, S-Video is going to be the highest quality video without modding. The Dreamcast does have a VGA cable available, but you're going to be out some money for an adapter box to move the analog VGA signal to a digital HDMI one. In my opinion, that money would be better spent buying a SCART to composite adapter, as the SNES, Genesis & Dreamcast all have SCART cables available and SCART, while not quite as crisp as component, is a form of RGB and would look great on your TV; here is an example of such a converter. The PS2 has had component cables available for it for years, so you just need to pick up a set; they're usually cheapest when purchased as a generic set for multiple systems--mine is for PS2/Xbox/360.

Note that the N64, while compatible with the SCART cable used for the SNES, won't output SCART/RGB signal without some internal modification. Without modding, you're stuck at S-Video as your top end video quality on it.

Hope this helps!

u/idownvoteallposts · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I have one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/GANA-Composite-Converter-Adapter-Supporting/dp/B01L8GG6PW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1495980818&sr=8-3&keywords=av+to+hdmi

And it works pretty well with a few caveats:

  • It only outputs 16:9 widescreen, so unless you like your games stretched you need to set the aspect ratio to 4:3 on your tv, and some tvs don't have that option

  • Depending on the tv and how that tv handles scaling, it can have some lag. I've only had one tv where it was noticable when playing Punch Out, and when I set the video mode to "GAME" that fixed it to the point where if there was any lag I didn't notice.

  • Finally, you need to use the tv's usb port, or a nearby outlet to power it.

    Aside from those things, it's pretty great for the price. I mean NES with it doesn't looks as good as the AVS, but it's a lot better than composite and a pretty good compromise I think.
u/jjennings089 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

So for scart cables I always go through https://www.retrogamingcables.co.uk a little longer to get delivered to the US but worth the time. So for scart to HDMI; a lot of people start out with one of the little black boxes: https://www.amazon.com/CKITZE-BG-460-System-Digital-Converter/dp/B00988GMLG (note link is generic an not to what you may need for your systems)

Now I have had hit and misses with these converters. And after I got a Framemister I realized they were so crappy. So spend you money wisely.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nd-F0apJZ6s Search Adam Koralick he has some great videos on the topic. Also the my life in gaming guys have some great videos. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpvtp7mH0Cdq8FQUxcjDq0Q

I spent a lot on the mini black box converters and other HDMI upscales and in the end I gave them away because the Framemister just worked so much better. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHoOKLWIMKU&t=475s shows the alternatives.

u/the_fascist · 4 pointsr/retrogaming

Congratulations! That game is pretty tough for your first one. I recommend that you give Mega Man a shot next, start with 2, let us know how it goes.

Honestly, emulators are fine if that's what you've got. The biggest thing you're missing is using the OEM controller which is usually the best way to play those games. If you plan on continuing with emulation, I would invest in a NES/SNES to USB adapter.

I've also heard great things about this USB gamepad:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002B9XB0E/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3UWLBPW51FB0O

I've never used it, but it's literally the only USB SNES controller with positive reviews.

u/duplicitea · 1 pointr/retrogaming

CRT stands for cathode ray tube, AKA an old, big, heavy, tube TV. Retro gaming enthusiasts generally consider them the superior way to play retro game consoles.

Yes, the NES only outputs mono audio just like the AV port on the back of the model 1 Genesis. The model 1 Genesis does stereo out of its headphone jack on the front so you can pipe it into your TV or receiver using a 3.5mm to RCA plug adapter. If you want to plug the mono audio source of the Genesis or the NES into a stereo receiver or TV and get sound out of both speakers you will need to use an RCA Y-cable or splitter. Specifically you will need one with a single female RCA style plug on one end and 2 male RCA style plugs on the other. These can be fairly easily found on sites like Amazon and eBay. Be sure you get one with ONE female and TWO male connectors though.

Something similar to this: https://www.amazon.com/InstallerParts-Stereo-Female-Splitter-Most-Audio/dp/B008NCD5WC/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=rca+mono+splitter&qid=1568118716&s=gateway&sr=8-7

If you use a switch box for your consoles you may consider not even sending the audio to the TV unless you want to control the volume with the TV remote. I have all my retro consoles connected to an 8-way passive switch box. I send the video signal to the TV and I have the audio sent straight to my receiver. It’s just one less thing to add noise to your analog sound signal.

The passive switch boxes are fairly cheap and seem reasonably robust. They can be found on Amazon and eBay as well. I use an 8-way model but you can get 4-way models as well.

I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/Panlong-Switcher-Composite-Selector-Consoles/dp/B00KXVBB7C/ref=sr_1_4?crid=UBDETJBPTMBU&keywords=rca+box+switch&qid=1568118835&s=gateway&sprefix=rca+box%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-4

u/trinitis · 1 pointr/retrogaming

My thoughts - Normally when going to college, the best tool is a laptop. It takes up much less space in the dorm and allows you to take your computer with you to classes. As such, I would go with emulation + a decent TV + an HDMI output on said laptop. Pick up one of these -

http://www.amazon.com/Nintendo-Smartjoy-PC-Controller-Adapter-Converter/dp/B0009VIZSY/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1397721078&sr=8-11&keywords=SNES+USB+adapter

and a solid SNES controller. That will get you set for any NES and SNES game you want to play. If you want to expand your library a little more, pick up one of these -

http://www.amazon.com/May-Flash-Controller-Adapter-Nintendo-64/dp/B002B9FIUU/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1397721145&sr=8-6&keywords=SNES+USB+adapter

and a N64 controller. Then, as a small (10 minutes, tops) project, get one of these -

http://www.amazon.com/Replacement-Joystick/dp/B000F7V2GO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1397721237&sr=8-2&keywords=N64+stick+replacement

and you'll have an amazing N64 controller and a bunch of new games to add to your play list.

u/240pMan · 1 pointr/retrogaming

My first piece of advice with all of this is to take your time to understand the basics. All of this isn't that hard to understand; it just takes a little time. If you really want to RGB mod your consoles to get the best picture then it is going to be expensive. Some consoles, such as the Genesis, early model SNES systems like the SNS-CPU-GPM-02, Sega Saturn and Playstation one output RGB natively so they don't have to be modded. Others like the NES and and N64 require RGB mods. This site is a really good starting point: http://retrorgb.com/index.html. You could also use s-video instead of RGB scart. S-video is better than composite and most consoles output s-video.
 
It seems that you are confused about scart and RGB. RGB is the signal being output by the console and scart is the cable used to carry that signal. If you want to connect your system outputting RGB via scart to a CRT with component input, then you need a scart to component transcoder like this one, https://www.amazon.com/SPECIALTY-AV-SCART-Component-Converter-Genesis/dp/B004XSSDPO. A transcoder simply coverts the signal and does not change the resolution or refresh rate and there should be no loss in picture quality.
 
So it appears that you are trying to RGB mod your SNES? If you have an early model SNES then you don't need to mod it. You don't need an official Nintendo scart cable; you can use a generic one. If you have a later model SNES such as a 1-chip version or SNES mini then the RGB mod you linked to is what you need. You have to keep in mind though that even though the RGB mod kit on that site is $29, it would cost $65 for them to install it. Then you still have to buy a scart cable (maybe $10?) and a scart to component transcoder (at least $50) to connect to your CRT.
 
The cheapest option would be to just get a used Wii, softmod it and play that on a CRT. Wii can output component and you can get a good third party component cable for $10 or less. Retroarch Wii can run retro games in their native resolutions and it looks just like games running on the original systems. You would also need an SD card to run your games off of but those are cheap. This option might cost you $60-70 but that is much better than spending hundreds of dollars if you went with the other options.

u/Sirotaca · 1 pointr/retrogaming

A popular, inexpensive setup is a powered splitter like this one, a capture device like this one, and OBS Studio. Be sure to set the deinterlacing mode in OBS to "retro" for best results.

If you want a really high-quality capture like Darbian and Kosmic, things get a lot more expensive.

u/fridaynightarcade · 4 pointsr/retrogaming

Pretty much what everyone else said... believe me, I've ran many laps around this question and tried several different cheap pieces of equipment. They don't work. Plain and simple. These are your options:

  1. Get a CRT

  2. Hook a PC up to your TV and just use emulation programs. RetroArch when properly configured combined with a USB adapter (http://www.amazon.com/Tomee-NES-Retro-Controller-Adapter-Converter/dp/B00HM3QCN2) for original hardware controllers can provide nearly the exact experience as Framemeister/RGB setups for a fraction of the cost. In some respects, it's a little better. If you configure RetroArch correctly and have Game Mode enabled on your LCD, input lag will not be a problem. I've given it "the Ninja Gaiden test" and it works great.

  3. Save up for a Framemeister and the appropriate SCART cables and possible RGB modifications to your consoles that you are going to need to make it all work.

    That's it.
u/Roppmaster · 5 pointsr/retrogaming

Finding an original SNES or NES controller and then using a USB adapter is probably your best bet. It's hard to beat the originals in terms of quality and feel.

Personally, I use a Sega Saturn model 2 controller and USB adapter. It's the best controller for 2-D games, in my opinion. The D-pad is amazing, and it has all the buttons needed for fighting games. http://resource.mmgn.com/Gallery/normal/White-and-black-Sega-Saturn-Controllers-1041428.jpg. Here's the USB adapter for it, which also supports PS2 and N64 controllers: http://www.amazon.com/Sega-Saturn-Controller-Adapter-Not-Specified/dp/B006ZBHXEO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1403059512&sr=8-1&keywords=saturn+usb+adapter.

If you don't want to mess with USB adapters, this USB SNES controller will get the job done: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002B9XB0E/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=A7ICWZ0VGAFE&coliid=ITRK7QKS41BQP

u/BangkokPadang · 6 pointsr/retrogaming

>would have required a large and expensive upscaler

Oh no, they make RGB scalers the same size, on very small boards.

This one, specifically is only $20 more than the one he purchased, and comes recommended specifically from Adam Koralik of FIOP:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00988GMLG/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

> it wouldn't have fit in the console itself.

This model, as well as the model shown in the video, both use 5v power, and are both small enough to fit within the console.

This RGB scaler is 4x4x1 inch. The Composite scaler he used is 3x2.5x1 inch. There is plenty of room under the "bubble" on the model 1 for either of these scalers to fit

>Converting the RGB signal to HDMI is way more complicated

The SCART signal is already output through the A/V pinout on the back of the model 1.

You simply wire Sync from pin 1 on the genesis a/v out to pin 20 on the SCART scaler,

and then run RGB from pins 7,3, and 8 on the genesis a/v out to pins 15,11, and 7 on the SCART scaler.

Finally, you run stereo L and R from the stereo jack on the front of the system to pins 6 and 2 on the scaler, and connect all your grounds.

It would have only been 3 extra wires (assuming he used a unified ground) to have used RGB instead of composite, but VASTLY improved the video quality.

He could have spent 20 extra dollars, and done the same amount of work, to have a glorious looking genesis.

u/Trilkhai · 1 pointr/retrogaming

According to Wikipedia's entry, "(FF 3) had not been released outside Japan until a remake was developed by Matrix Software for the Nintendo DS on August 24, 2006." The screenshot from the DS remake makes it look like the evil lovechild of particularly cutesy anime and the "Precious Moments" dolls/figures my elderly aunt used to be obsessed with.

Emulators are just programs you can download that open the individual games (called "roms"). One good option for playing GameBoy Advance games is mGBA. (I can't link directly to a place that provides the games, but a Google search for "Final Fantasy Dawn of Souls rom" will direct you to some places you can download it.)

You can play games in emulators using either the keyboard or a USB gamepad. I use an iBuffalo Classic USB Gamepad, which has served me really well for 2.5 years of fairly heavy use. You pretty much just plug the gamepad in, start the emulator, and maybe go into the settings/options screen to tell it which buttons to use.

u/jacob_magoo · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I have used one of these for a long time (link below). Picture is great and it's worked with everything I've thrown at it. Snes, genesis, Saturn, rgb modded n64. It produces a stunning picture on my 36 inch trinitron over component. Not sure how much justice it would do, but I can post some pictures of it in action if you're interested. It's about half the price of the other suggestion as well, it doesn't do audio though, you'll have to make sure you get the scart cables with audio breakouts. When you get it, you may have to open it up and adjust some of the pots on the board to get the color just right, just need a small screwdriver to turn the dials, takes all of 5 minutes.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004XSSDPO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_7DRZAb4TRV7R8

u/rickbodey · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

I would look into the clone consoles. I have a Super Retro Trio and it has great compatibility. It also supports flashcarts/everdrive and repos. It is $54 on amazon. I have the original consoles but is nice to save on space and have all three in one box.

u/tempusfudgeit · 1 pointr/retrogaming

If you have money for all the mods, cables, scart switches, and the framemeister itself, then I guess ya.

I have this upscaler, and it works perfect. Games from nes to gamecube look beautiful in 720 on my projector. There's no noticeable input lag(We played smash on gamecube and wii just fine, I played mega man and super mario world without issues).

I think the framemeister is overhyped on reddit - both here and on /r/gamecollecting . I also think a lot of the review videos make composite look worse than it actually looks. They also overplay input lag on everything else. Every time someone around here buys a cheap upscaler on amazon, they come back and say they don't notice any input lag. I bet most of the people who say upscales have input lag have never tried them.

I've ditched my CRT and if a framemeister fell in my lap for free today, I'd sell it because I don't feel like RGB modding my nes and n64 and buying a bunch of cables. As someone pointed out, games don't always look great ultra sharp. Part of the illusion of good graphics is a slight blur sometimes.

u/accaris · 5 pointsr/retrogaming

The best one ever made is the Buffalo Classic. It is extremely compatible and very high quaiity, on par with an actual original Super Famicom controller.

u/___heisenberg · 1 pointr/retrogaming

just ordered this one here http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DRGDBTG?pc_redir=1409997011&robot_redir=1 had it for about a week now and it's awesome, works great. highly recommended

u/pixiestix88 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Says its imported from Japan on amazon, but i guess it could be made in china. Don't remember since i no longer have the box.

You can always get an adapter for for OG snes controller but im okay with this gamepad since it works as well as my OG snes controllers imo. Seems lots of people on amazon agree. http://www.amazon.com/Buffalo-Classic-USB-Gamepad-PC/dp/B002B9XB0E

u/SNESdrunk · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

I love books on gaming history. If you're interested, I'd recommend Steven Kent's Ultimate History of Video Games and David Sheff's Game Over

u/Talkurt · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

Yes both are av switches. The one with s-video is http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DSQMVKU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1420291068&sr=8-1&dpPl=1&dpID=51uveTmBlCL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SX200_QL40 and the one with just composite is http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DRGDBTG/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1420291068&sr=8-3&dpPl=1&dpID=41lebNURx6L&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SX200_QL40

The S video switch has five inputs and two outputs, the composite switch has eight inputs and one output. The one with S video is autoswitching but requires power. If I had it to do again I would just buy two autoswitching S video boxes. They were cheaper and easier to use. Quality on both seems good.

u/sam7r61n · 6 pointsr/retrogaming

On a budget, get the Retrotink 2x to upscale nicely and convert to HDMI. To plug those consoles into the Retrotink and get a good image:

For SNES and N64, you can solve together by getting this exact S-video cable as it’s commonly known for quality.

For PS2, get Sony’s official component cables or get HDRetrovision’s PS2 component cables found here .

I know OG Xbox component cables can be found from Microsoft, and I’ve read the cheap knockoffs are good.

I don’t know what you can do for Dreamcast.

u/HeliosRises · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Nicely done. A small emulator station is going to be my Christmas present to myself.

I'm still debating the Raspberry Pi vs. Odroid dilemma. Did you get to demo any games on your station? I've heard mixed reviews about the playability of some SNES games on a retro pi. Any thoughts?

Thanks for the heads-up about the stickers. I'm certainly going to order a few do decorate whatever case I use.

ps. Buffalo Classic USB Controller is the best USB SNES Clone I've used. Doesn't match up to anything authentic, but it's a fair controller for the price.

u/gredgex · 5 pointsr/retrogaming

http://www.amazon.com/C2G-Cables-28750-Composite-Selector/dp/B0032ANC8M?ie=UTF8&keywords=s%20video%20switch&qid=1463513498&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1

i use this one, it works fine and i haven't had any issues with it. also, your SNES will have the most improvement over your other consoles, like a real noticeable difference. the N64 and Gamecube will have slightly better resolutions, but mostly just better colors.

u/mangia-cake · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

hey bud, heres the link for amazon, tons of shapes and sizes i use them for my NES games and they fit perfectly. - > https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B001KW0BEC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

u/shizno2097 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

The ultimate history of videogames is really good, the audiobook has an awesome narrator

http://www.amazon.com/The-Ultimate-History-Video-Games/dp/0761536434

u/FutureAvenir · 0 pointsr/retrogaming

I'm in Canada, so it's ~$42 shipping included. I think it might be my best bet for something that actually works. It's this one, yes?

u/RaymondDoerr · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Good advice, I was thinking about going that route as well. My TV does have component input, so it would be logical.

I can also work some hacky magic and run the component through my existing composite switch (using the left/right audio for the other 2 video channels) and having a second 8 way switch for the audio channel. I imagine it shouldnt degrade the picture quality, as it's just a mechanical switch acting as a RCA coupler. Since there arent many (any?!) 8 way switches for component, but there's tons for composite it might be the cleanest solution.

u/wobel85 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I just picked up these: MT-VIKI 8 Ports 8-In 1-Out AV RCA Splitter Selector Switch Adapter MT-831AV https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DRGDBTG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_jNy4xbXK6ZT6T

C&E Premium 3 RCA Audio Video Composite Cable 6 Feet Black, VF-34-RCA-RCA-CBLE-06-4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001VJ465O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kOy4xbHZ2QAYZ

NES AV Cable "Simulated Stereo" Audio Video TV Cord for Original Nintendo System replaces RF Switch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006457FUI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xPy4xbP6JF30T

Sega Genesis 1 Standard AV Cable (Bulk Packaging) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002FY0CM0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_DPy4xbXCD658S

The Dreamcast, GameCube, etc. already came with the AV cords. These will have to do for now, at least they beat RF units even if only by a little. I can't afford mods to make these consoles HDMI compatible. Like you said the Gamecube HDMI cord goes for like $300 on eBay. For a 7yr old I think he'll be fine with these for now until proper funds come in to upgrade so many consoles. I doubt many kids his age would notice the difference unless it was on some huge TV.

Edit: The Element TV I got my son, listed in the OP was an open box and I had to return it base was broke. However all the consoles worked on it. I bought a Westinghouse 40"1080p TV to replace it, it was pretty cheap: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/westinghouse-40-class-40-diag--led-1080p-hdtv-black/5452800.p?skuId=5452800

I just hope all the consoles will work with this TV as well. I noticed some consoles will work on some TVs but not others? Example, his Dreamcast will work on my LG Plasma in my living room but not my LG LED in my bedroom.

u/monkey_scandal · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Here's one example: RCA to HDMI, GANA 1080P Mini RCA Composite CVBS AV to HDMI Video Audio Converter Adapter Supporting PAL/NTSC with USB Charge Cable for PC Laptop Xbox PS4 PS3 TV STB VHS VCR Camera DVD https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L8GG6PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_zhS4Cb8F61RJH

According to the reviews you have to do some tweaking of the tv settings to get it to look right, so if you're happy with the way it looks now, it may not be worth the hassle. It would probably be more practical for larger TVs where the pixels would look severely stretched, but for the one you have, you're probably good.

u/GBrecharge · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Which SCART to Component box did you order? I got one as well and had to mod a headphone out jack to it for sound because it only did video. This powered splitter looks like it would be a good one, if a little overkill, but it's only about $35 USD. This switcher will automatically switch to whatever device is powered on.

Consoles to Hydra, Hydra to splitter, splitter to component box and Framemeister then to the TVs.

I don't currently use this setup, but if I did I'd probably start here.

P.S. if you ordered one of these and don't want to deal with modding the thing, I'd recommend using this adapter to get sound.

RGB is hard.

u/mzupeman · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

If the goal is to just get video and sound output to his TV, couldn't he buy the much cheaper composite to HDMI converter that most people seem to recommend, which is pretty cheap?

Tmvel Composite Video Converter

u/snesislife · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Fantastic job. On your issue of single cord, I'm not sure what power your running out of it but I got one of these for my pi so I didn't have to keep plugging and unplugging. Real lifesaver on the old back.

https://www.amazon.com/Adafruit-USB-Cable-Switch-ADA1620/dp/B00KAE3F58

u/DejoMasters · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

I don't really know what you're asking... My TV has standard composite input and it's 4K and fairly new. But a quick Google search reveals plenty of adapters and upscalers like this. Hope this helps a little.

u/RetroGameGal84 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I bought this off Amazon, I used a label maker to label mine by system instead of numbers. It works great for me!
Panlong 8-Way AV Switch RCA Switcher 8 In 1 Out Composite Video L/R Audio Selector Box for DVD STB Game Consoles https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KXVBB7C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ktQRBbR5MY5KK

u/enragedwalrus · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I use two of these. They aren't 100% the best solution for video quality with an HD tv but it gets the job done :)

https://www.amazon.com/Panlong-Switcher-Composite-Selector-Consoles/dp/B00KXVBB7C

u/Kupotek · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I have this converter/upscaler,


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00988GMLG/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


And I have a Genesis 1 SCART cable and am waiting on a Genesis 2 SCART cable from this place, where I recommend buying them from.


http://www.consolegoods.co.uk/


I actually haven't tried it out yet because I have a Genesis 2 plugged in and didn't want to mess with it. I'm being lazy so I don't feel like digging it out but if you can wait until the Gen. 2 cable comes in the mail I will be glad to let you know how I feel about it.

u/nakedarthur · 1 pointr/retrogaming

That really isn't a very good TV for retro games. The Component and Composite connection share the same jacks, so you can basically only get a Composite switch, run everything into that, then out from the switch to the TV. Since the 3rd connector for the Component uses the Composite jack you will be limited to an inferior connection for everything.

Please do him a favor and really consider that Trinitron. It will be cheaper, zero input lag, way more connections, and a much better picture. (this message courtesy of /r/crtgaming)

u/jonstarks · 1 pointr/retrogaming

bro, http://amzn.com/B004XSSDPO
and buy a scart cable (before u buy anything make sure your tv supports a 240p signal)

u/kalinaizzy · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I have 2 Panlong switches plugged into another switch that has 4 inputs (2 AV and 2 S-Video) for a total of 18 possible consoles. HDMI switch is separate. They work beautifully.

u/jscythe · 3 pointsr/retrogaming

Depends on how "retro" you're going. If you only want games up to the 16-bit era, you can probably get away with the Buffalo Classic SNES controller. If you want to go up to the Dreamcast and PS2, you'll be better off with either a PS3 or Xbox 360 wired controller. And you can always use an old Wiimote and Nunchuck if you happen to have bluetooth on your PC.

u/Greg_Chaco · 1 pointr/retrogaming


There are more expensive ways/higher quality parts and cables (ie Framemeister). But I'm 100% satisfied with my setup, no noticeable lag and high quality video. (Granted my Genesis has modded video and audio encoding chips)

Genesis, Saturn, Dreamcast, Snes, Ps1, Ps2 all are capable of RGB Scart right out of the box. N64 can do RGB Scart after a mod (basically a requirement if you want to play N64 on a 4k screen). NES also needs a mod for RGB but I still use the standard A/V output on my toaster model because I think my TVs built-in upscaler does a fine job handling 8bit.



https://console5.com/store/sega-genesis-2-3-cdx-nomad-rgb-scart-cable.html


https://www.amazon.com/CKITZE-BG-460-System-Digital-Converter/dp/B00988GMLG/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2XOJEDM0L7WP1&keywords=scart+to+hdmi+converter&qid=1554132863&s=gateway&sprefix=scart+%2Caps%2C199&sr=8-3

u/WhoKnowsWho2 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I'm planning on getting that "HD Video Converter" that people seem to have luck with.

I can't make myself get the expensive Framemeister.

u/amoral_crackpot · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I use a version of this. I'm sure others will have had issues with these, but so far it's been working just fine on my end.

u/mccarseat · 1 pointr/retrogaming

http://www.amazon.com/Panlong-Switcher-Composite-Selector-Consoles/dp/B00KXVBB7C

I have one of these so I have 6 systems hooked up through my KV-36FS120 .

Would highly recommend it so you don't have to constantly swap inputs.

u/LordNoFat · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

You need an adapter like this so you can plug your NES controller into your computer.

u/shin0bi272 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I have one of the "8 in 1 out" and one of the "4 in 1 out" ones both from the same company and they work well so far.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KXVBB7C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

u/mynamesstillnotjason · 2 pointsr/retrogaming

I use this for both SNES, NES, and Genesis games on my Retropie setup.

u/imgurfacultyandstaff · 1 pointr/retrogaming

They are all AV component compatible. I plugged them into this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KXVBB7C?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share which is plugged into the TV.

u/Mr_frumpish · 4 pointsr/retrogaming

I used to use Y adapter (two female ends, one male) but now I just switch the RCA connectors out for the console I am using at the time.

There are products out there where you can plug a bunch in at once.
For Example

I know nothing about the above product and am not endorsing it. It's something I found in two seconds of internet searching.

u/etn8127 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

Maybe it's just Buffalo. Swear I've seen it as iBuffalo too. Here's a link to the one I'm talking about.

u/cyburg953 · 1 pointr/retrogaming

This is probably a stupid question so correct me if i am wrong, but arent there other good S-Video & Composite switch boxes like this one(Only has composite though) that are much cheaper?

u/Ninjaivxx · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I will look into this. it appears that its about a 50/50 on these. either people love it or they hate it. and it makes me a little worried that amazon wont carry this one because of complaints. maybe it was just a shitty brand but who knows...

u/tadfisher · 1 pointr/retrogaming

I found that this unit results in similar quality with no perceptible lag using my SNES and an RGB SCART connection:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00988GMLG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1