Retro-Games FAQs

Here are a few things you are bound to come across while searching for retro games

Emulation

An emulator is a program that copy's the operating system of another type of computer and allows you to run the software written for it. They typically require ROM files which are the games code and data as stored on the game cartridge or even tape. There are loads available for just about every system ever made.

Regional Protection

Most consoles will only play games from the same country as the console themselves, companies do this in order to have better control of the separate markets. The usual method to do this is to have a region code built into the game and or console itself. For more detail see here

Can I use an imported machine in the UK?

It is possible to use consoles imported from abroad but you will need two things; Firstly, you need a TV which will support NTSC as well as a PAL signal. Depending on where the console is from, you may need a step-up power converter due to supply voltage - see grid below. It is possible to get an NTSC to PAL converter but these are typically quite expensive at around £50-£70.

TV Standard/Country Power Level

Region Power TV Type
UK 220V PAL
Europe 230V PAL
USA 110V NTSC
Japan 110V NTSC

What's PAL?

TV standard used in Europe and Australasia. PAL stands for 'Phase Alternating Lines'. It runs at 25 frames per second, with 625 lines on screen.

The name suggests how it works. The phase of the colour carrier is alternated from line to line. It takes four full pictures for the colour to horizontal phase relationship to return to the reference point. This alternation helps cancel out phase errors.

What's NTSC?

TV standard used in USA and Japan. Stands for 'National Television Standards Committee'. It runs at 30 frames per second, with 525 lines on screen. Countries such as Canada and Mexico have also standardized on NTSC.

What's a Super Gun?

The super gun is a small device which can be used to play Jamma boards on a standard TV via a SCART cable.

Why do import games have large black borders?

The line difference between NTSC and PAL systems. NTSC games are programmed to use just 525 lines out of 625 on PAL, so you get the 50 line border above and below the screen.

Why do PAL games run slower than NTSC counterparts?

When the game is reprogrammed to use PAL's 625 lines, the inevitable extra processing requirement needed for the extra 100 lines tends to slow things down.