=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= G A M E G E N I E Video Game Enhancer -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- .----------------------------------------------. | Game Genie: Video Game Enhancer FAQ | | (Version 1) | | For Nintendo Entertainment System(tm) | | By: Albert Tran (aka Tranalbert) | | Email: tranalbert@telstra.com | | Created: Thursday, 16 January 2003 | | Date last updated: Thursday, 28 January 2003 | '----------------------------------------------' GG_beginning !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ! DISCLAMER! DISCLAIMER! DISCLAIMER! ! !___________________________PLEASE READ THIS FIRST__________________________! ! This FAQ was written by me, Albert Tran (tranalbert@telstra.com ! ! Unpublished work of Albert Tran 2003, and is for personal use only. This ! ! FAQ may not be republished in any other shape and form, be distributed ! ! for profits nor be used without the author's consent. I am an ! ! understanding person and if you want to post this FAQ on your own ! ! webpage/webpage just contact and ask me. Don't, however, just link your ! ! site to this FAQ on GameFAQs. You may print this FAQ, but remember, you ! ! can't sell it for money. All my FAQs are to be free! All offenders will ! ! be severily dealt with! ! ! ! ! Game Genie and Galoob logos are registered trademarks of Lewis Galoob ! ! Toys Inc. and Nintendo logos are registered trademarks of Nintendo of ! ! America Inc. The author of this document is in no way affiliated with ! ! Lewis Galoob Toys Inc. and/or Nintendo of America Inc. ! ! ! ! The Game Genie is an unofficial and unlicensed Nintendo product so ! ! neither I nor Nintendo is responsible for any damage that the Game Genie ! ! causes to your Nintendo Entertainment System(NES) console or games. I the ! ! author also take no responsibility for subsequent damage to property or ! ! injuries sustained from the use of this FAQ. ! ! ! !_________________________________REFERENCES________________________________! ! Official Galoob Website - www.galoob.com ! ! ! !_____________________________NOTE TO WEBMASTERS____________________________! ! If you want to use this FAQ for your site, make sure that you keep on ! ! checking GameFAQs for latest revisions. Otherwise, I will have to answer ! ! questions that already answered in the latest editions. ! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ___ / I \__________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- REVISION HISTORY GG_revise =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Current Guide Statistics: Current Guide Status: ------------------------- --------------------- Pages: 17 Guide: 100% complete Words: 6,856 File Sizes: 54.1KB - 55,406bytes Characters(no spaces): 39,089 Total e-mails: 0 Characters(with spaces): 53,511 Paragraphs: 858 Lines: 942 Version 1.10 (Started: Tuesday, 28 January 2003) ------------------------------------------------ - Decide to add a MSN Instant Messenger policy for those who choose to talk to me in person - Reformatted the FAQ's layout Version 1.00 (Started: Thursday, 16 January 2003) ------------------------------------------------- - Main body complete and ready for post - Frequently Asked Question section up, but still waiting for the first few questions ____ / II \_________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TABLE OF CONTENTS GG_tble_cntnt =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Press Ctrl+F then type for the section you need to get to. Keyword ------- Start of the FAQ -Disclaimer GG_beginning I. REVISION HISTORY.............................................GG_revise II. TABLE OF CONTENTS............................................GG_tble_cntnt III. INTRODUCTION.................................................GG_intro IV. GAME GENIE BACKGROUND........................................GG_bkground 1. USING THE GAME GENIE.........................................GG_using A. SETUP GUIDE.............................................GG_setup i. ORIGINAL NES.........................................GG_nes ii. TOP-LOADING NES (MODEL 101)..........................GG_nes_101 B. INPUTING CODES..........................................GG_input i. CONTROLS.............................................GG_controls C. GAME GENIE MAINTAINANCE.................................GG_maintain D. TROUBLESHOOTING.........................................GG_trble_sht E. GAME COMPATABILITY LIST.................................GG_cmptblty F. TRICKS..................................................GG_tricks 2. CODES........................................................GG_codes A. SIMPLE CODE PROGRAMMING.................................GG_prgramming i. TECHNIQUE 1..........................................GG_tech1 ii. TECHNIQUE 2..........................................GG_tech2 iii.TECHNIQUE 3..........................................GG_tech3 3. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS...................................GG_faqs 4. CONTACTING THE AUTHOR........................................GG_cntct A. EMAIL POLICY............................................GG_email B. INSTANT MESSENGER POLICY................................GG_msn 5. CREDITS/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.....................................GG_crdts End of the FAQ GG_end _____ / III \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- INTRODUCTION GG_intro =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Hello vast world of the internet! This is my first website appearance on the internet and first attempt at a FAQ ever. Despite being a long term user of GameFAQs' boards, I found writing this FAQ surprisingly alluring and addictive. I first decided to start writing this walkthrough after a long summer break, lots of free moments and noticing that the net was void of any in-depth information on the Game Genie. Having just bought a Game Genie a few weeks before Christmas 2002(11 years after I bought my first NES and videogame), I soon realised that there wasn't much info on this marvellous augmentation of plastic and metal. Since GameFAQs didn't have a walkthrough either, I decided to write this FAQ. I hope you enjoy and find the fruits of my labour helpful. This FAQ is designed for amateurs to novices. It merely covers the basics of the Game Genie so don't expect difficult programming and hacking techniques. If you are more proficient in code hacking and are looking for a more complex guide, try the following link:____________________. I, however, am thinking of extending this guide in the near future to cater for more experienced code hackers. If are one of these experienced guys or gals, I want to hear from you. Pretty please? ____ / IV \_________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- GAME GENIE BACKGROUND GG_bkground =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- A precursor to the many cheat hardwares today, the Game Genie was initially invented in 1990 when the NES was at its acme. Then called the "Power Pak", the prototype design by Codemasters was quickly sold to Camerica for a final touch-up. Although, the product was ready to be released to the public under the new name Game Genie, it never hit the stores. Nintendo had unsuccessfully tried to the sue the company for copyright violation and though they lost, the legal proceddings forced the Game Genie's release date back a year in the US. Despite this, Camerica had won the battle in Canada and were able to release it there. Nintendo, however, had left a large gash in Camerica. The company was suffering from dire financial problems from the lawsuit and was forced to sell the Game Genie to Galoob Toys, the $200 million California-based international toy company. Soon after the sale, Camerica completely disappeared as well as its other videogame products, such as the Aladdin Game Enhancer. From that point on the Game Genie's popularity grew as it was released in America, Europe and Australia(Not surprisingly, the Genie was never released in Japan for the Famicom, which required less connector pins). It became the most recognised unofficial NES peripheral, and although Nintendo was quite bitter about it, it brought in lots of money for Galoob Toys. Even today, this simple product is admired for being one of the first cheat peripherals and being the only one for the most popular consoles in the world. It has certainly built a reputation for itself. The Game Genie is a third of the size of a normal NES cartridge and came in two colours, black and gold. Inside, it contained special computer chips that allowed gamers to "hack" into the programming of games. Later on, probably to counteract the use of unlicensed peripherals such as the Game Genie, Nintendo cunningly installed new chips that prevented the game from loading. Furthermore, Nintendo brought out a new top-loading NES that made using the Game Genie simply impossible. Galoob worked its way around this by producing a Genie adaptor, though this was near the end of the NES's life and few were ever produced. Galoob had always tried to be one step ahead. The Game Genie worked like most cheat peripherals today. Once inserted, codes would be entered in. These codes were stored in the NES's RAM(Random Access Memory) and would overwrite vital values that controlled factors such as the number of lives or the amount of damage sustained. A downside to use of RAM was the lifetime of the entered codes. The codes would only last as long as the time the power was on, disappearing once the power was turned off. This meant codes had to be inputted every time you wanted to play a game. After 5 years, the Game Genie was finally discontinued for all systems(NES, SNES, Genesis and GB). Galoob realised that there was no longer a market for the outdated NES peripheral in 1997 and admitted defeat to the times. This was the death of one of the best peripheral in gaming history(Sniff Sniff) Today, Galoob no longer produces gaming peripherals. The company was taken over by Hasbro a number of years ago and to this day, Galoob continues to produce toys for kids. ___ / 1 \__________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- USING THE GAME GENIE GG_using =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Before even starting to use the Game Genie, it is wise to make ensure your NES is in tiptop condition. Since most problems usually involve the condition of the NES or the game, a cleaning kit, such as the official Nintendo NES one, is an excellent investment. Follow the instruction on the kit and be amazed at the amount of dusk and other gunk that may affect the hardware's performance. Finally, check and test the NES. It's no use having a console or game that simply doesn't work! _____ / 1.A \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- SETUP GUIDE GG_setup =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- This is what a Game Genie roughly looks like: ____________________________________________ |.------------------------------------------.|<----------Console Connection |: :| (inside) |: :| |: :| /|: :|\ / |: :| \ | |: :| | | |'------------------------------------------'| | | |__ __| | | |**| |**| | |__|**|______________________________________|**|__| |**| |**| \**\ galoob <-------------------Game Cartridge |**|____________________________________|**| Connection |**| |**| \**\ /**/ \**\ /**/ \**\ /**/ |**| |**| |**| |**| \**\ /**/ |**| |**| |**|___________________________|**| \**\***********|\*/|***********/**<-------------------Black Harness \**\**********||*||**********/**/ \**\ ||*|| /**/ |**| ||*|| |**| |**|********||*||********|**| \**\********||_||********/**/ |**| ||*|| |**| |**| //***\\ |**| \**\ ||***|| /**/ \**\ ||***|| /**/ \**\ ||***|| /**/ |**| ||***|| |**| |**| |/***\| |**| \**\ /*******\ /**/ |**| |*******| |**| |__|/=========\|__| \**|===========|**/<----------------------------Close Line \*|===========|*/ \|___________|/ The Game Genie has 2 opposite ports. The first, underneath the black, flimsy and cheap "harness", connects to the gamepack. The other must therefore plug into the slot of the console. One of the more important feature is the close line. This line marks the place where the lid of the original must meet (you'll understand when I get into more detail later). For those who are using the Genie with a top loading NES disregard the line completely. The Game Genie has no territorial lock-out so I can safely assume that a Genie from NTSC(American) territories maybe used in PAL(European and Australian) territories, and vice versa. I'm not too sure whether NTSC(Japanese) games can be used with the Genie tough. Maybe via the use of a NES<->Famicom adaptor? Enough talk, let's get down to business! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ! WARNING! WARNING! WARNING! ! !___________PLEASE READ THIS FIRST____________! ! Never plug or remove a Game Genie or game ! ! into or from a NES that is turned on. By ! ! doing so you run the risk off being shocked ! ! by electricity which could prove fatal. ! ! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED! ! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! _______ / 1.A.i \______________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ORIGINAL NES GG_nes =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Connecting the Game Genie ========================= 1. Select the game you intend to use the Genie with and firmly, but gently, push it into the port underneath the black harness. Make sure that it is pushed all the way down and that the label of the game is facing _towards_ the black harness. 2. With the power _off_ push the other free end of the Genie into the slot of the NES, ensuring it is pushed all the way in and the lid is able to close. The lid should rest on the ridges imprinted on the black harness and be in line with the "close line" (see figures below). If not, remove the Genie; check if there is anything lodged in the console and try again. Do not try and push the game down like normal. 3. Turn on the power of the NES and hopefully voila! You are now ready to enhance your games. * __ * * _ /\ * _ | * * _/(_/__\_________ * _/(___ __|_________ ** |____| | * * |______| | ** |============| * * |============| * * |____________| * |____________| * * CORRECT INCORRECT Removing the Game Genie ======================= 1. With the power of the NES turned _off_, grasp the game and Genie. Pull both of them out while holding onto the console. 2. Carefully remove the game from the Game Genie. ________ / 1.A.ii \_____________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TOP-LOADING NES (MODEL 101) GG_nes_101 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Unlike the original NES, this new model was built physically different. The slot is now located on top and it is considerably narrower, inhibiting the use of the Game Genie (Sarcastic voice: "Great job Nintendo"). The connectors of the console are just too deep meaning forcefully putting the Genie in may mean you will never be able to get it out. Galoob, however, found a way around this by making an adaptor, extending the NES's connectors so that the Game Genie would easily fit. These specifically designed adaptors were unfortunately released at the end of the NES's life and are gradually becoming difficult to track down. If you can find one you are extremely lucky! Connecting the Game Genie ========================= 1. Select the game you intend to use the Genie with and firmly, but gently, push it into the port underneath the black harness. Make sure that it is pushed all the way down and that the label of the game is facing _towards_ the black harness. 2. Push the other free end of the Genie, surprisingly, into the Game Genie end of the adaptor. 3. With the power _off_ push the other end of the adaptor into the slot of the NES. If it does not go all the way down check if there is anything lodged in the console and try again. 4. Turn on the power of the NES and hopefully voila! You are now ready to enhance your games. Removing the Game Genie ======================= 1. With the power of the NES turned _off_, grasp the game, the Genie and the adaptor. Pull all three of them out while holding onto the console. 2. Carefully remove the game and the Game Genie from the adaptor. 3. Carefully remove the game from the Game Genie. _____ / 1.B \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- INPUTING CODES GG_input =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Once correctly setting up the Game Genie you will see the following screen. If you don't or the screen is distorted turn the console off; make sure that the game and the Genie are firmly connected and try the power again. You may have to try this numerously if your game, console or Genie are old and worn. _________________ | Game Genie | | A G P O Z X L U | | G K I S T V Y N | | * _ _ _ _ _ _ _ | | _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ | | _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ | |_________________| N.B. The * symbol indicate the "swirling star" cursor If you still don't see this screens after many attempts, you may be trying to use the Genie with a game that simply does not work. Check the compatibility list for games that don't work. Use the controls outlined below, on the control pad plugged into socket 1, to input codes. You may have up to three lines of code. _______ / 1.B.i \______________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- CONTROLS GG_controls =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- This is the Nintendo Entertainment System Control Pad. The control pad is composed of a cross- .-----------------------------. shaped piece that controls the movement | _ :--------: | of the onscreen hand; the Start button | _| |_ :========: NINTENDO | that starts the game; the A and B buttons ||_ o _| :--------: | that are used to input and delete letters; | |_| [SEL][STA] (B)(A) | and the Select button that does absolutely | :________: | nothing. '-----------------------------' _ _| |_ |_ o _| Use the directional pad to move the hand and select the desired |_| letter. [Select] Pressing this button does nothing. [Start] Pressing this button starts the game. (B) Pressing this button deletes the last letter entered. (A) Pressing this button enters the selected letter into the blank space indicated by the "swirling star". Once you have entered all the desire codes check them again. If they aren't correctly inputted the effect you seek will not work. If they still don't work: 1. Turn the console off then on then try again. 2. Check if you entered the codes correctly (Hey, you might have entered the codes incorrectly twice). 3. Try different codes for the game. It might be that particular code which is buggy. 4. Try entering the code lines in a different order. REMEMBER: The Game Genie is not compatible with some games. Therefore, there is a slight chance that the menu will never appear no matter how many times you check and renter the lines of code. _____ / 1.C \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- GAME GENIE MAINTAINANCE GG_maintain =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- The Game Genie, as any NES game, eventually becomes a dust collector, hindering its performance and stopping it from working to its potential. Indeed, there are ways to prevent this, allowing your Genie to serve you for many more years A majority of the possible problems usually involve the Genie's connectors in one way or another. Users generally report distorted and choppy graphics, black screens and mysterious crackling noises from their television. The proper way to fix this is to buy a proper NES cleaning kit. Though they might be quite expensive, they are the only way that assures that the connection are completely dust free. If all else fails, you may decide to either phone the makers of the cleaning kit or perform radical DIY surgery. This will be explained later on. Some people decide to clean the connectors by simply blowing them. This, however, is not a good idea. While it may prove as a short-term cure and remove loose dust, it also comes with a hefty price. Moisture from your breath, when you blow, is exposed to the copper connections and eventually corrodes them, rendering them useless for transferring electrical pulses. If they do corrode, you can kiss your beloved Game Genie goodbye. If you decide you must blow the connections, I suggest that you do it through a piece of thin cloth. The cloth will act as a barrier and trap any moisture expelled, though this won't guarantee that your Genie won't corrode. The connectors are the most delicate part of the Genie, but the outer casing may be attributed to a number of problems. Material/gunk stuck to the casing may be lodged and prevent the Genie from fitting perfectly into the game or the console, therefore it is ideal to clean the casing once and a while. The best way to attack this problem is with soapy water, a piece of cloth and a little bit of elbow grease; don't attempt to use benzene or any other type of alcohol as this may "melt" the plastic casing. Using a lightly damp cloth, carefully clean the casing, removing all of the attached material. Try to not get water onto the connections, as once again, like your breath, this will corrode them. Ensure that the Genie is completely dry before use. Remember that your Game Genie is as delicate as, maybe even more than a normal NES game and it continues to become more fragile as time passes. Treat it with the care it deserves and it will never fail you, at least for a long time. Game Genie Surgery: ------------------- If your Game Genie continues to fail, even after repeated connector cleanings, the Genie's connectors may be covered in corrosion. This is not the end of the world, however. You may like to attempt the procedure outlined below, but I'd like to caution those who dare use it. You are putting the life of your Game Genie when you try this surgery! (This technique is based on Jay McGavren's NES Cleaning Guide also found on GameFAQs) What you need: - Q-Tips - Windex or a solution of 50% isopropyl alcohol, 50% water 1. Dip a Q-Tip in the cleaning solution and rub firmly across the metal contacts of the dirty Game Genie. Repeat until the Q-Tip comes out clean. 2. Use a dry Q-Tip to wipe off the excess solution. 3. Once the Game Genie is dry, plug it in to test it. You may want to remove and reinsert it a couple times more to make sure the contacts are completely clean. If you have tried this technique and the Genie continues to fail, you are out of options. Don't even attempt to open the casing. The Genie has no screw and once you crack the casing, you may never be able to put it together nor be able to use it again. _____ / 1.D \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TROUBLESHOOTING GG_trble_sht =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- This section of the guide is merely for those who seek a quick solution to common problems. Just follow the individual steps below and follow the labelled instructions. 1. Does the game freeze, stop or show glitchy graphics? Yes: - Clean the Game Genie's connectors(Consult Game Genie Maintanance section [Keyword: GG_maintain]). - Problem with code. Try a different combination of codes(Consult Controls section [Keyword: GG_controls]). No: Goto 2 2. Is there a picture on screen? Yes: Goto 3 No: - Make sure the Game Genie is pushed all the way into the console. - Clean the Game Genie's connectors(Consult Game Genie Maintanance section [Keyword: GG_maintain]). - Make sure the TV and NES are plugged in. - Make sure the TV and NES are turned on. - Make sure the TV and NES are correctly connected. Consult the NES' instruction manual. - Check that you are on the correct channel to which the NES is tuned to. - Remove then reinsert the Game Genie from the console. If you have an original NES, check that the lid is closed and reaches the close line. - Remove Genie from both the console and the game cartridge. Reassemble the Genie and game into the console. 3. Does the Code Screen appear? Yes: Goto 4 No: - Make sure the Game Genie is pushed all the way into the console. - Clean the Game Genie's connectors(Consult Game Genie Maintanance section [Keyword: GG_maintain]). - Turn the console off then back on. - Remove then reinsert the Game Genie from the console. If you have an original NES, check that the lid is closed and reaches the close line. - Remove Genie from both the console and the game cartridge Reassemble the Genie and game into the console. - Check whether the game is compatible with the Genie(Consult Game Compatabilty list section [Keyword: GG_cmptblty]). 4. Do pictures and the code screen appear sometimes? Yes: - Check whether the game is compatible with the Genie(Consult Game Compatabilty list section [Keyword: GG_cmptblty]). - Clean the Game Genie's connectors(Consult Game Genie Maintanance section [Keyword: GG_maintain]). - Remove then reinsert the Game Genie from the console. If you have an original NES, check that the lid is closed and reaches the close line. - Remove Genie from both the console and the game cartridge. Reassemble the Genie and game into the console. No: Goto 5 5. Is it hard to push the Game Genie into the game cartridge? Yes: - This is normal when the Genie is new and does not harm the game. - If it is unusually difficult, check whether there is anything lodged in side the connector housing. Remove any foreign matter you may find. No: Goto 6 6. Is it hard to push the Game Genie into the NES console or is there a scraping noise when it is pushed in? Yes: - This is normal when the Genie is new and does not harm the console. - If it is unusually difficult, check whether there is anything that is preventing the Game Genie from being inserted into the console. Remove any foreign matter you may find(Consult Game Genie Maintanance section [Keyword: GG_maintain]). No: Goto 7 7. Is there an unintended effect that does not interrupt normal gameplay? Yes: - Problem with code. Try a different combination of codes(Consult Controls section [Keyword: GG_controls]). No: Goto 8 8. You have a problem that is unable to be solved. Please contact me, stating the symptoms, and I might be able to find a solution. If you live in America, another option is to call the Game Genie Hotline for assistance. Their number is 1-513-868-8835(Could someone in the US verify whether or not this hotline still exists). _____ / 1.E \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- GAME COMPATABILITY LIST GG_cmptblty =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- As Nintendo continues to frown upon unofficial peripherals today, the Game Genie, back then, was a nightmare for the massive videogame corporation. Nintendo absolutely hated the Game Genie as it allowed gamers, for the first time, to find faults in games' construction/programming and play games in a way never seen before. Stated in the Game Genie's Background, Nintendo soon found a way to circumvent this form of "cheating", stopping it in its tracks and hitting it with a new kind of computer chip. Installed in most new NES cartridges, this chip basically recognised that a Game Genie was connected and stopped it from working; the code screen never appeared. This part of the guide aims to distinguish and list some specific games that will never work with the Game Genie. If anyone knows of a game that does not work with the Genie, please contact me. You will receive full credit. I would also like someone to clarify how the lockout chip worked and whether or not there is a way of disabling it. Thanks. <<>> _____ / 1.F \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TRICKS GG_tricks =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- More than Three Lines of Code ----------------------------- If three lines of code are not enough, you may well decide to attempt what is know as a "double whammy". This involves having two Genies connected together. You may even decide to connect more together if you desire more codes and have enough Game Genies. I actually found this tip while browsing the net, so I'm not so sure about its authenticity and whether it works or not. If you have the hardware and have tried it, please tell if it works. You will receive full credit! ___ / 2 \__________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- CODES GG_codes =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Since there are so many games for the NES there are also many Game Genie codes, 1000's in fact. I'm not going to list any here due to the number, however they are quite easily found on the net. Use either search engines or notable game pages, such as Gamefaqs or the official Galoob website, and cheat to your heart's content. I'm willing to write down some excellent links below but DON'T email codes for specific games. Your email will be deleted! The following links are excellent sources of Game Genie codes. Just copy and paste them into your browser: - www.gamefaqs.com - www.vgstrategies.about.com/cs/gamegeniesites/ _____ / 2.B \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- SIMPLE CODE PROGRAMMING GG_prgramming =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- This part of the guide will show you how to make your own codes, but I am not a fluent person in the world of console hacking and I am unfortunately restricted to basic code changes. This means that I can only change existing codes and reiterate what I have learnt and read from the original Game Genie manual. Sorry! There are several methods of creating your very own cheat code and while they may seem easy, code programming is a tedious technique that requires patience, practice and a lot of luck. It takes many attempts to create a perfect working code so always keep at it and be persistent. Of course, some of the effects you create you may not like. Some may good, bad, weird or just plain frustrating. Remember! If a code you program crashes the game or causes an undesired effect, just turn the console off then on again, and try again. Good luck and have fun! _______ / 2.B.i \______________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TECHNIQUE 1: RANDOM CODE GENERATION GG_tech1 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- By far, the easiest method involves inputting random letters, and by chance, you might get a working code. Although easy, this technique is also depends on luck the most, making it the most unreliable. Use the following guidelines: - Codes with 6 letters work best. - Using 3 lines of random code will more likely produce an effect, but it much harder to refine the code as you do not know which code line is producing the effect. - Many codes produce an effect but some of these effects are so minor that they aren't clearly visible. You may have to try many codes before you will be able to see and effect. - If you find a random code that has an interesting effect write it down and try techniques 2 and 3 to refine the coding, . This way, you are more likely to "home in" on a good effect. ________ / 2.B.II \_____________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TECHNIQUE 2: CHANGING THE FIRST OR SECOND LETTER OF CODE GG_tech2 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Before starting, you must have an existing line of code. This code may be either one self created or one taken from a code book, website, etc... Once you have the original code, you have a number of options: 1. Change the first letter of the code 2. Change the second letter of the code 3. or change both the first and second letters of the code In order to determine which letters change to which, you need the following tables: _________ _________ |_Table 1_| |_Table 2_| | A | | E | | P | | O | | Z | | X | | L | | U | | G | | K | | I | | S | | T | | V | |____Y____| |____N____| How to use the table: Find the letter you want to change then substitute it for any other letter in the same table. You can use any other letter in the same table, but for a greater difference in effect try using letter that are the furthest apart. For example: A and Y are further apart than A and T. Try using all the letters to "tune" the effect to your desire. Example for Technique 2: An existing Game Genie code for The Legend of Zelda ------------------------ (tm) is ESKUILTA and this code gives the player a blue ring. We shall first attempt to change the first letter. To change the first letter find E in Table 2 and change it to a different letter Table 2. In this example we shall substitute E for O. .-------------------------------------. | Using Table 2 | |Original Code -------------> New Code| | ESKUILTA OSKUILTA| '-------------------------------------' We shall now attempt to change the second letter. To change the second letter find S in Table 2 and change it to a different letter Table 2. In this example we shall substitute S for N. .-------------------------------------. | Using Table 2 | |Original Code -------------> New Code| | ESKUILTA ENKUILTA| '-------------------------------------' Finally, we shall attempt to combine the two previous techniques and change both the first and the second letters. .-------------------------------------. | Using Table 2 | |Original Code -------------> New Code| | ESKUILTA SNKUILTA| '-------------------------------------' After testing all three of the new codes, we find that the first new code (OSKUILTA) gives us a red ring. This is our new code for the game. Simple? _________ / 2.B.iii \____________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- TECHNIQUE 3: CHANGING THE FIRST OR THE LAST LETTER OF CODE GG_tech3 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- This final technique is similar to that of the last, however it uses a separate set of conversion tables. Once again, you will require an existing line of code, either self created or found. Once you have the original code, you have a number of options: 1. Change the first letter of the code 2. Change the last letter of the code 3. or change both the first and second letters of the code In order to determine which letters change to which, you need the following table: _____________ |___Table 3___| | A <-----> E | | G <-----> K | | P <-----> O | | Z <-----> X | | L <-----> U | | I <-----> S | | T <-----> V | |_Y_<----->_N_| How to use the table: Find the letter you want to change then substitute it for the letter it corresponds with. Example of Technique 3: An existing Game Genie code for Kiwi Kraze(tm) is ----------------------- AAEGNPZA and this code gives the player 1 life after continuing. We shall first attempt to change the first letter. To change the first letter find A in Table 3 and change its corresponding letter. In this example we shall substitute A for E. .-------------------------------------. | Using Table 3 | |Original Code -------------> New Code| | AAEGNPZA EAEGNPZA| '-------------------------------------' We shall now attempt to change the last letter. To change the last letter find A in Table 3 and change its corresponding letter. In this example we shall substitute A for E. .-------------------------------------. | Using Table 3 | |Original Code -------------> New Code| | AAEGNPZA AAEGNPZE| '-------------------------------------' Finally, we shall attempt to combine the two previous techniques and change both the first and the last letters. .-------------------------------------. | Using Table 3 | |Original Code -------------> New Code| | AAEGNPZA EAEGNPZE| '-------------------------------------' After testing all three of the new codes, we find that he second new code (AAEGNPZE) gives us 9 lives instead of 1. This is our new code for the game. ___ / 3 \__________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS GG_faqs =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- <<>> ___ / 4 \__________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- CONTACTING THE AUTHOR GG_cntct =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Like any other FAQ you can contact the author, me. You, however, have the choice of emailing me at tranalbert@telstra.com or chatting to me using MSN Messenger(tranalbert@hotmail.com). The following sections will show you how to contact me and the acceptable way of doing so. _____ / 4.A \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- EMAIL POLICY GG_email =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- I am happy for people to email me, but since I don't want useless emails turning up in my mailbox(I get my share of spam you know :)) I'm going to outline what's acceptable and what isn't. Don't try and push your luck. If you don't follow the guidelines below you will be sure that your emails will go unanswered and you may be blocked. Remember: YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED! Do's ---- - Put Game Genie in the subject field. If I don't see it I might your letter is junk mail. - Send me emails in text or htlm format. - Please send me questions that are not found on this or if you aren't clear on a particular issue. Remember to always check the latest version at GameFAQs before asking. - Use specific questions. I can't help you if I don't know what you are talking about or if you are too broad. - Please send in contributions, corrections and suggestions. Once again, always check the latest version beforehand. - Try and use correct grammar and spelling. I can't stand English laziness. - Be patient. I'm a very busy person, school for such, and I may not reply instantly. I may be late, however I will reply! - Be polite. I am a human and I don't need to be yelled and sworn at. - FAN MAIL! I just love the stuff so please send some in. Do Not's -------- - Send me emails that are executables. Like everyone else, I don't want viruses. - Ask questions that can be answered in this FAQ. - Ask for Game Genie codes. - Send me emails that are entirely written in caps lock or contain stupid changes in fonts or case. iT caN BE VerY ANnoYiNg. - Send me stupid letters that either don't make sense or are completely irrelevant. I can not tolerate asinine letters who are writen by sensible people. God gave you a brain, so use it! - Use foul language. - Send me spam or chain letters. You know what spam and chain letters are so don't do it. If you do, you will be permanently blocked! The basis rule of thumb is to use nice, everyday language and get my attention to your email. If I don't think it isn't spam, I won't delete it and block you. _____ / 4.B \________________________________________________________________________ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- INSTANT MESSENGER POLICY GG_msn =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- After much thought and some hesitation I have decided to use MSN Instant Messenger as a contact point. Like emails, I have also decided to post a few guidelines for those who choose to make use of this service. Basic Setup/Guidelines ---------------------- 1. Get MSN Instant Messenger. If you don't have it, you need to get it. 2. To talk to me add the following email to your contact list: tranalbert@hotmail.com.
3. Set your default name to Game Genie so I know your business then log in.
4. If I'm on, usually under various aliases, just simply start talking to me.
5. Once all your queries have been answered just tell me. I will then delete
   your contact from my list.

REMEMBER: I live in Brisbane, Australia, and there maybe a slight or large time
difference between where I live and where you are contacting me from. I'm
usually on MSN between 7:00pm-10:00pm AEST, Tuesdays and Sundays, so ensure
your local time corresponds to these times when you attempt to contact me. Just
to help you, AEST is 10 hours ahead of GMT(Greenwich Mean Time).

Do's
----
- Ask me questions and contributions that don't appear in this FAQ.
- Ask for Game Genie codes.
- Talk in plane English. No shorthand or text message mumbo jumbo, please.
- Be patient. I'm usually talking to other people, so I might not reply
  instantly.

Do Not's
--------
- Ask questions that can be answered in this FAQ.
- Use an extremely awful font. Some of them are just too hard to make out and
  understand.
- Talk to me about another subject other than the Game Genie.
- Use foul language.

Like my email policy, be nice and I will talk to you. After all, I'm always
willing to help.:)
 ___
/ 5 \__________________________________________________________________________
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
CREDITS/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS                                               GG_crdts
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
- Thanks to Galoob Toys for producing this marvellous piece of hardware and to
  Codemasters who originally came up with the idea.

- Thanks to Nintendo for producing one of the best consoles ever and bringing
  us some of the best games and memories. You will always be the best gaming
  company in my eyes and you hold a special place in my heart.

- Special Thanks to my parents who bought me this computer and my vast library
  of games; their complete support during my gaming moments; and their guidance
  all these years. Without them, this FAQ would not exist. I love you!

- Great Thanks to my friends: Nicholas Gaffney, Matthew Gilpin and Kieran
  Roberts who all meticulously proofread my guide and gave me some suggestions
  and feedback. You have made my life at Nudgee College, a horrid cesspool,
  more bearable!

- Special Thanks to Mark Humphreys, my eternally best friend, who lead me to
  the world of videogames and bliss. I will always remember the fun we had
  together as kids.

- Special Thanks to those souls who wrote the Official Game Genie Programming
  Manual and Codebook for the information on Game Genie setup, basic
  programming and troubleshooting.

- Major Thanks to NESWORLD.com for information pertaining to the history of the
  Game Genie.

- Special Thanks to Jay McGavren and Outkast for the various bits of
  information on game cleaning. Please also visit their FAQs also on GameFAQs.

- And lastly, but most importantly. Thankyou CjayC! You have given so many
  authors, including myself, the chance to write game guides and help so many
  other gamers. You and GameFAQs are a testament to pure gaming and you deserve
  applauds for the work you do. Thankyou so much! and keep up the magnificent
  work!

These are all the acknowledgements to this date and I'm grateful for each and
every one of them. If you have not been acknowledged, just email me. I might
have just overlooked you while searching through the junkmail and spam in my
inbox.

Everyone who makes contributions, suggestions, comments or corrections will be
credited and be immortalised on this page. If I receive the same piece of
information, however, I will work on the "first come, first serve" basis. Just
remember to send them to the email at the top of this FAQ. Thankyou so much!



                                 Game Genie(tm)
              is a registered trade mark of Lewis Galoob Toys Inc.

          Nintendo Entertainment System(tm) its accessories and games
             are registered trade marks of Nintendo of America Inc.

                      Game Genie: Video Game Enhancer FAQ
                             Copyright January 2003
                                  Albert Tran




                                                                         GG_end