NES Top Loader

[ElkinFencer10]

I know that removing the 10NES chip when they released the NES Top Loader allowed it to play PAL games, but what about Japanese Famicom games? Can it play those, too, or just European games?

[Zing]

Yes. You need a 72 to 60 pin converter.

[ElkinFencer10]

Yes. You need a 72 to 60 pin converter.

Sorry, I'm not sure I understand. I can play Famicom games on a Top Loader, but I need a converter? Is that right? Or am I confusing myself? If so, what should I look for to find that converter?

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Yes, a "toploading" NES (NES-101) can play Famicom games, but you need a 60 to 72 pin converter since Famicom games use only 60 pins vs the NES using 72. Google for more info.

Although you technically CAN run PAL NES games on a US NES-101, you probably shouldn't. See, the PAL NES uses a 1.66Mhz processor vs the NTSC systems using 1.79. This results in a 17% reduction. Most worthwhile PAL games, not to mention the exclusive ones, were programmed for the slower speed. If you try and run PAL NES games on a NTSC system, the game and the music will play 17% faster than they should. As well, some PAL exclusives such as Elite will not display on NTSC televisions.

If you must import, import Famicom games. Japan is NTSC same as North America. Only thing you'll need is either a Famicom or Famicom to NES pin adapter.

[o.pwuaioc]

For Gyromite's converter, see this:

http://www.racketboy.com/retro/hacks/gy ... pter-guide

[Duke.Togo]

Don't forget that some Famicom games used special sound chips which cannot be heard on a top loading NES without modification.

[Ziggy]

Just buy an AV Famicom and a 72 to 60 pin converter!

[Satoshi_Matrix]

Indeed. That might be your best choice, but its far from the only one.

Check out this beginner's guide that I wrote to help people decide which system is best for them.

http://satoshimatrix.wordpress.com/2011 ... ing-guide/

[ElkinFencer10]

Awesome, thanks!