A ROM file is a digital copy of the data from a read-only memory (ROM) chip, typically from a computer or video game cartridge. These files are created by copying the data from the physical hardware to a digital file. For arcade games, you'll need data from several different chips, grouped together to form a ROM set for that game.
ROM files are used by emulators to mimic the hardware of old gaming systems on modern devices, allowing you to play classic games on your computer, phone, or other devices.
## What are the types of Arcade ROM Sets?
- **Non-Merged Sets**: Contains everything needed for a game in one ZIP file. It's space-inefficient but keeps everything self-contained.
- **Split Sets**: The parent set has all the normal data, and clone sets contain only the changes compared to the parent set. This saves space.
- **Merged Sets**: Combines the parent and clone sets into one ZIP file, which is space-efficient but more complex to manage.
## Save States or In-Game Saves, what should I use?
Always use **In-Game Saves** they are generally more reliable and less prone to corruption compared to **Save states** .
**Save states** can be affected by emulator errors or just normal version updates of the emulator.
**What is the difference?**
- **Save States**: Facilitated by the emulator, capturing the game state at any point, often that specific version of the emulator.
- **In-Game Saves**: Built into the game, usually with specific save points or conditions.
## What are Save States in Emulation?
**Save states** in emulators allow you to save the exact state of a game at any moment.
This feature is useful because it goes beyond the in-game saving mechanics available in many classic games.
When you use a save state, the emulator records the game's current state, including progress, character health, items collected, and settings.
Loading a save state restores the game to that exact point, letting you continue playing from where you left off, even in the middle of a level or battle.
### Benefits of Save States
- **Convenience**: Easily manage game progress and try different strategies without replaying from the start.
- **Experimentation**: Test different settings without risking the original game.
### Drawbacks of Save States
- **Game Integrity**: Regular in-game saves are designed to maintain the integrity of the game's progression and mechanics. Save states can bypass these mechanics, potentially leading to unintended consequences for good or bad.
- **Reliability**: In-game saves are generally more reliable and less prone to corruption compared to save states, which can be affected by emulator errors or just normal updates of the emulator.
- **Fair Play**: Using save states can give players an unfair advantage, especially in competitive gaming scenarios. Regular in-game saves ensure a level playing field for all players.
