CPS3 Update
Work continues on the CPS3 core. We have got to the point where we can simulate complex scenes. Graphics still need work, but the video pipeline is in place and the architectural phase for video is over. A lot of effort keeps going towards the general JT framework expansion to make this possible on MiSTer using a single SDRAM.
Our layout technician is finishing the schematics for Dragon Ball Z at the moment. He will move to CPS3 after that. We already did the schematics for it a long ago but he will review them and clarify some elements using our new understanding of the system. At that point, the whole team is going to be working on CPS3.
The image below comes from a CPS3 core simulation.
Kai Versions
Our two intern students have completed two more upgrades to classic titles. Remember that these versions run on the original hardware. There are no special tricks needed to make them work.
They worked on another Konami title: Kicker. This is a snapshot of the original version.
The KAI version has a character font with more character. More color details in sprites and tiles and new background elements, like the dragon and cloud in level 3.
The other title is Track'n Field. This is an original screen shot:
The KAI version has new type font, using more colors. The background fill patterns have been modified to be less plain.
The MRA files for these changes are attached, including the Yie Ar KungFu we presented two weeks ago. These files will appear in ther alternatives folder with a name starting with "(JT)".
They are working on a bigger title now: Ghosts'n Goblins. There is a lot empty space in the background ROM to make the levels more appealing but managing the color palette is more challenging in that hardware. I am looking forward to their new version!
NeoGeo
You may have seen Plaion's announcement of an ASIC based NeoGeo console. An ASIC is a chip, an application-specific integrated circuit. This is the first retro product I know of that is using making dedicated chips. It is so cool! By the way, I should mention I took a small role in that project. I helped in the design review and I also licensed some of the JT intellectual property for the project. I am looking forward to seeing the final product!
That is all for this week. There are a lot of new faces lately. Welcome to all of you!