One of the great feature that Sony implemented on their PS1 emulator on the PSP is the ability to read manuals when pausing the game. This is accessed when pressing the Home button. A menu will pop up allowing various configurations such as the screen mode and the emulated disc-loading speed. Also available is 'Software Manual', accessible if a document exists on your PS1's game folder. If you've decided to make your own PS1 eboot.pbp files, you can easily create your own manuals or download them from this very useful site. In either case you will have to place the DOCUMENT.DAT file into the folder that contains the relevant PS1 eboot.pbp file.
Personally I can't be bothered by manuals, so I create text files that contains FAQs or maps (in PNG file format). This are usually for difficult PS1 games that I've not played, which tends to be plenty of obscure RPG titles. In any case all I've to do is use something like IceTea and generate the files through the program. You will need to assign each document file to a PS1 ID in order for the emulator to recognise the file to the game. For example the Disc ID for the US NTSC version of Dragon Quest VII is SLUS-01206. You will need that ID when generating the document. Once successful, simply copy the generated DOCUMENT.DAT file into the same folder as your eboot.pbp file.
Showing posts with label Guide. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Guide. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Multi-disc PlayStation PSP eboots
My last guide for creating PSX eboots actually only applies to single disc eboot games. So what do you do if you have a copy of a multi-disc game that you want to install? For example getting the two disc Metal Gear Solid and want to get both discs onto a single eboot file? It is simple, just download the Impaler PSX eboot creator. The application is UI based and supports the creation of PSone eboot files with up to five discs. Not too shabby, and the program itself isn't too bloated. Anyway, like all the other PS1 to PSP creators out there it also allows you to embed your own custom icon, background image and background music. Pretty standard really, and if you have trouble making your own icons and backgrounds you can peruse the images available on this site. Unfortunately I've already wasted some time making my own MGS background based on Yoji Shinkawa's classic illustration of Solid and Liquid Snake. Feel free to use it for your own MGS eboot if you like it:
Getting used PS1 games is getting trickier than before but for those in the UK, do check out your local GameStation and markets. Another source I recommend is Gumtree. From time to time, you do find people giving away their PS1 collection. Now if you will excuse me, I am going to East London today, with a portable MGS to keep me company.
Labels:
Guide,
PS1,
PSP,
Video Games
Saturday, February 16, 2008
A newbie's guide to installing custom firmware on PSP Slim & Lite
Before you install a custom firmware on your newly purchases PSP Slim, you will need a couple of things. A PSP Slim (d'uh!), a Pandora Battery (or Datel Max Power Tool or Datel Tool Battery for Slim), a genuine Memory Stick Pro Duo (Magic Gate) with a capacity above 128MB and below 4GB as well as access to a Windows PC. Note that this guide can also be used on older PSP (PSP-1000 series). See the comments.
The next step is so easy even George Bush can do it:
If you want to install the latest 3.90 M33, just download the M33 release file and Sony's official 3.90 update file and rename it to 390.PBP. Copy the UPDATE folder into ms0:/PSP/GAME and copy 390.PBP into the same folder. Navigate to GAME/Memory Stick on the XMB and run the installer. The firmware will be installed by Sony's own updater program. Make sure your battery is charged and follow the instructions. If you have a slow Memory Stick, you may want to patch the firmware with 3.71 fatmsmod.
After installing the custom firmware the first thing I recommend is to turn on your PSP while pressing the right shoulder button to put the PSP into recovery mode and "overclock" your PSP Slim into 333Mhz for games. This will provide a massive performance improvements to games originally developed to run at 222Mhz. Format the Memory Stick if you need the extra space.
After that how you want to use your PSP is up to you. I personally use it to extract the ISO from my UMDs so as to be able to run them from the Memory Stick rather than UMD drive. This is as easy as dragging the ISO onto your desktop, then compressing it via a CSO compressor utility (search engines are your friends) to reduce the size. The massive battery improvement alone is worth it, but there are other advantages like reduced loading time and the convenience of not having to carry many UMDs. I also use custom firmware to run PS1 games via emulation.
Disclaimer: This is merely a guide. I will not take responsibility if you brick your PSP.
Update: Not all PSP-2000 can be used with a Pandora battery, right now specifically those with TA-088 motherboards.
- Download the TotalNewbieEasyInstaller program (Google or Yahoo! it).
- Run the program (Start.exe).
- Put your PSP (with the Memory Stick) into USB mode and connect it to your PC via a USB cable.
- Follow the instructions (this will involve formatting your MS stick so be sure to backup any content before).
- Choose 4. Universal Unbricker: 3.71 M33 Installer and install.
- Follow the instructions.
The next step is so easy even George Bush can do it:
- Make sure the Memory Stick is inserted inside.
- Insert the Pandora's Battery or Datel Tool battery into your PSP Slim's battery slot.
- Follow the instructions. Here you can restore your PSP Slim to 3.71 official firmware, install 3.71 M33 or backup the PSP's NAND ROM to MS by pressing 'Square'.
- Press 'X' to install 3.71 M33 firmware.
- Once done, remove the battery and insert a none-hacked battery.
- Turn it on. You can confirm the firmware by checking the System Information.
If you want to install the latest 3.90 M33, just download the M33 release file and Sony's official 3.90 update file and rename it to 390.PBP. Copy the UPDATE folder into ms0:/PSP/GAME and copy 390.PBP into the same folder. Navigate to GAME/Memory Stick on the XMB and run the installer. The firmware will be installed by Sony's own updater program. Make sure your battery is charged and follow the instructions. If you have a slow Memory Stick, you may want to patch the firmware with 3.71 fatmsmod.
After installing the custom firmware the first thing I recommend is to turn on your PSP while pressing the right shoulder button to put the PSP into recovery mode and "overclock" your PSP Slim into 333Mhz for games. This will provide a massive performance improvements to games originally developed to run at 222Mhz. Format the Memory Stick if you need the extra space.
After that how you want to use your PSP is up to you. I personally use it to extract the ISO from my UMDs so as to be able to run them from the Memory Stick rather than UMD drive. This is as easy as dragging the ISO onto your desktop, then compressing it via a CSO compressor utility (search engines are your friends) to reduce the size. The massive battery improvement alone is worth it, but there are other advantages like reduced loading time and the convenience of not having to carry many UMDs. I also use custom firmware to run PS1 games via emulation.
Disclaimer: This is merely a guide. I will not take responsibility if you brick your PSP.
Update: Not all PSP-2000 can be used with a Pandora battery, right now specifically those with TA-088 motherboards.
Labels:
Guide,
PSP,
Video Games
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Vagrant Story on PSP
I have been experimenting with playing PS1 games on the PSP, and so far it has been a joy. For times when I am away from a PS2 console, having a portable console that allows me to play a perfectly emulated Vagrant Story anywhere was something I didn't think possible and yet I was doing so yesterday in the tube. Obviously you will need to install a custom firmware (3.40 OE-A and above) on your PSP which can be tricky but not too difficult, as well as access to a couple of PS1 games. As for the games itself, thankfully it is just about hitting your local independent video games store, flea market, GameStation, CEX or worse eBay. Prices varies based on quality and rarity, but you can never go wrong with a preowned classic like Metal Gear Solid for £2.99 (GameStation price).
Vagrant Story in zoom screen mode where the top and bottom part are cropped
Once you have ripped your game to your PC, you will need to a program to convert your PS1 game to a PSP format, in which case a PS1->PSP application like IceTea is needed. IceTea, for example, allows you to select the compression level. Using the 'best compression' setting, I was able to get Vagrant Story's 700MB ISO size down to 116MB file size, which is impressive as the game contains bits of FMV. You can also create your custom icons (144x80 PNG) and background image (480x272 PNG) for when highlighting the game file in XMB. Dump the generated Eboot file into a folder inside the ms/PSP/GAME folder on your Memory Stick. PS1 game saves will automatically created upon booting the game and you can manage it on the XMB save utility just like normal PSP game saves.
And here it is in normal mode which contains no cropping. Sorry about the crap lighting.
PS1 games can be played via different screen modes, including original and zoomed (both 4:3), zoom (cropped) as well as fullscreen (squashed). Because of the lack of dual analog as well as L2 and R2 shoulder buttons on the PSP, you may find some games to be pretty difficult to play. Fortunately there aren't that many games that uses those buttons or the right analog nub (Metal Gear Solid for example does not use the right stick). Plus you can map the left analog nub to emulate the L2 and R2 triggers. In Vagrant Story's case, the game actually support for the right analog stick for freelook but fortunately Squaresoft also mapped the same function to the Start key. Performance wise, the game runs brilliantly with no stuttering framerates or sound issues.
Hope this mini-guide will help. I tried to keep technical stuff out, but seriously, converting a game is a very easy process. Now if you excuse me, I need to go hunting for a copy of the super rare PS1 port of Chrono Trigger.
Vagrant Story in zoom screen mode where the top and bottom part are cropped
Once you have ripped your game to your PC, you will need to a program to convert your PS1 game to a PSP format, in which case a PS1->PSP application like IceTea is needed. IceTea, for example, allows you to select the compression level. Using the 'best compression' setting, I was able to get Vagrant Story's 700MB ISO size down to 116MB file size, which is impressive as the game contains bits of FMV. You can also create your custom icons (144x80 PNG) and background image (480x272 PNG) for when highlighting the game file in XMB. Dump the generated Eboot file into a folder inside the ms/PSP/GAME folder on your Memory Stick. PS1 game saves will automatically created upon booting the game and you can manage it on the XMB save utility just like normal PSP game saves.
And here it is in normal mode which contains no cropping. Sorry about the crap lighting.
PS1 games can be played via different screen modes, including original and zoomed (both 4:3), zoom (cropped) as well as fullscreen (squashed). Because of the lack of dual analog as well as L2 and R2 shoulder buttons on the PSP, you may find some games to be pretty difficult to play. Fortunately there aren't that many games that uses those buttons or the right analog nub (Metal Gear Solid for example does not use the right stick). Plus you can map the left analog nub to emulate the L2 and R2 triggers. In Vagrant Story's case, the game actually support for the right analog stick for freelook but fortunately Squaresoft also mapped the same function to the Start key. Performance wise, the game runs brilliantly with no stuttering framerates or sound issues.
Hope this mini-guide will help. I tried to keep technical stuff out, but seriously, converting a game is a very easy process. Now if you excuse me, I need to go hunting for a copy of the super rare PS1 port of Chrono Trigger.
Labels:
Guide,
PSP,
Video Games
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Video Game Guide: Getting the Zodiac Spear in Final Fantasy XII PAL
This guide is for getting the most powerful weapon, the Zodiac Spear, in the PAL version of Final Fantasy XII.
Lowtown (South Sprawl)
Do not open the isolated urn found opposite the entrance to Old Dalan's home.
Rabanastre Royal Palace (Cellars)
There are two urns in the south-east side of the Cellars. Do not open the one on the south-eastern corner.
Nalbina Dungeons (The Confiscatory)
After collecting your belongings from the Confiscatory, you will find that there are three urns in the room. Do not open the urn in the middle of the room (the one directly opposite the save crystal).
*spoiler warning*
After you obtain the Dawn Shard it is possible to get the Zodiac Spear. However getting it this early would be extremely difficult and tantamount to a suicide mission for your party.
Whenever you are ready, head to the West Barbican from the Nalbina Aerodome, then head north-west to the Mosphoran Highwaste. If there is a cut scene showing the guards blocking the entrance to the Mosphoran Highwaste just hire a Chocobo and charge at them. It is probably a wise idea anyway to continue with the Chocobo for this venture if your party is too weak. Continue north-west until you reach the beautiful Salikawood.
Find the zone with the teleport crystal (there is a wandering moogle nearby), save, then head north and defeat the optional boss Bomb King. He is pretty easy if your party is fully equipped with Flame Shields. Just cast silence so he couldn't call for help, then pound it with physical or water-based Black Magick attack. He will renew his HP a couple of times but just keep on pounding. Make sure to use a handkerchief every time a party member is hit with oil. If you have Belias, summon him.
After felling the Bomb King, head westwards to the Necrohol of Nabudis and watch the cut scene (which may not appear if you come too early in the game). The Zodiac Spear is in the middle of the room at the third zone (Cloister of the Highborn). Getting there is tricky as the dungeon is fiendishly difficult to fight through at this stage of the game, and your party will most likely be wiped out after only a couple of hits. As it is likely that your party level is around the low 30s, I would recommend fleeing through the dungeon both ways (make sure you equip Libra, Protect and Float!), or just take the sensible option and ignore this whole side quest until you grind your way up to Level 50-53, like I did.
Regardless, the Zodiac Spear is in the second urn (of the cluster of 16) from the left from the direction of the room entrance. DO NOT open the urn if you are equipped with a Diamond Armlet!
o= Open urn without Diamond Armlet equipped to receive Zodiac Spear.
x= Open once you are equipped with a Diamond Armlet, if you care to receive Dark Matter.
Congratulations, you are now in the possession of the most powerful raw physical weapon in Final Fantasy XII with its +150 attack and +8 evasion. Sadly if your party level is low, the weapon won't be of much help in physically fighting your way out. So try to flee out. If you have the chance try to visit the secret shop in the northern part of the first zone.
If you wisely chose to ignore the Zodiac Spear for now and continue with the main quest, there is another treasure urn that must not be opened:
Phon Coast (The Vaddu Strand)
Among the group of 16 treasure urns, do not open the third urn from the north-west corner.
N
x x o x
x x x x
x x x x
x x x x
S
o= DO NOT open!
x= Open once you are equipped with a Diamond Armlet, if you care to receive Dark Matter.
If you accidentally did open any of the urns, there is another chance of getting the Zodiac Spear. There is an urn in the Phase 2 Dig zone in the Henne Mines, which when opened the party leader must be equipped with a Diamond Armlet. There is a 10% probability that an item will manifest from the urn. Of that, there is only a 10% probability it will be the spear. So really you will have a 0.1% chance of getting the Zodiac Spear there. Good luck!
Credits: Necrohol of Nabidus map by Seph, NeoGAF, Coca Cola, Piggyback and Square-Enix for making a damn good game.
Lowtown (South Sprawl)
Do not open the isolated urn found opposite the entrance to Old Dalan's home.
Rabanastre Royal Palace (Cellars)
There are two urns in the south-east side of the Cellars. Do not open the one on the south-eastern corner.
Nalbina Dungeons (The Confiscatory)
After collecting your belongings from the Confiscatory, you will find that there are three urns in the room. Do not open the urn in the middle of the room (the one directly opposite the save crystal).
*spoiler warning*
After you obtain the Dawn Shard it is possible to get the Zodiac Spear. However getting it this early would be extremely difficult and tantamount to a suicide mission for your party.
Whenever you are ready, head to the West Barbican from the Nalbina Aerodome, then head north-west to the Mosphoran Highwaste. If there is a cut scene showing the guards blocking the entrance to the Mosphoran Highwaste just hire a Chocobo and charge at them. It is probably a wise idea anyway to continue with the Chocobo for this venture if your party is too weak. Continue north-west until you reach the beautiful Salikawood.
Find the zone with the teleport crystal (there is a wandering moogle nearby), save, then head north and defeat the optional boss Bomb King. He is pretty easy if your party is fully equipped with Flame Shields. Just cast silence so he couldn't call for help, then pound it with physical or water-based Black Magick attack. He will renew his HP a couple of times but just keep on pounding. Make sure to use a handkerchief every time a party member is hit with oil. If you have Belias, summon him.
After felling the Bomb King, head westwards to the Necrohol of Nabudis and watch the cut scene (which may not appear if you come too early in the game). The Zodiac Spear is in the middle of the room at the third zone (Cloister of the Highborn). Getting there is tricky as the dungeon is fiendishly difficult to fight through at this stage of the game, and your party will most likely be wiped out after only a couple of hits. As it is likely that your party level is around the low 30s, I would recommend fleeing through the dungeon both ways (make sure you equip Libra, Protect and Float!), or just take the sensible option and ignore this whole side quest until you grind your way up to Level 50-53, like I did.
Regardless, the Zodiac Spear is in the second urn (of the cluster of 16) from the left from the direction of the room entrance. DO NOT open the urn if you are equipped with a Diamond Armlet!
N
x x x x
x x x x - Entrance
x x x o
x x x x
S
x x x x
x x x x - Entrance
x x x o
x x x x
S
o= Open urn without Diamond Armlet equipped to receive Zodiac Spear.
x= Open once you are equipped with a Diamond Armlet, if you care to receive Dark Matter.
Congratulations, you are now in the possession of the most powerful raw physical weapon in Final Fantasy XII with its +150 attack and +8 evasion. Sadly if your party level is low, the weapon won't be of much help in physically fighting your way out. So try to flee out. If you have the chance try to visit the secret shop in the northern part of the first zone.
If you wisely chose to ignore the Zodiac Spear for now and continue with the main quest, there is another treasure urn that must not be opened:
Phon Coast (The Vaddu Strand)
Among the group of 16 treasure urns, do not open the third urn from the north-west corner.
N
x x o x
x x x x
x x x x
x x x x
S
o= DO NOT open!
x= Open once you are equipped with a Diamond Armlet, if you care to receive Dark Matter.
If you accidentally did open any of the urns, there is another chance of getting the Zodiac Spear. There is an urn in the Phase 2 Dig zone in the Henne Mines, which when opened the party leader must be equipped with a Diamond Armlet. There is a 10% probability that an item will manifest from the urn. Of that, there is only a 10% probability it will be the spear. So really you will have a 0.1% chance of getting the Zodiac Spear there. Good luck!
Credits: Necrohol of Nabidus map by Seph, NeoGAF, Coca Cola, Piggyback and Square-Enix for making a damn good game.
Labels:
Final Fantasy,
Guide,
PS2,
Square-Enix,
Tips,
Video Games
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