/vr/ - Retro Games

>>3804879
Literally in the sticky
http://emulation.gametechwiki.com/index.php/Modding_Consoles/Flashcarts

Since all my replies about Mother 1 got deleted, I thought I'd compile a mini FAQ.

> Should I even play Mother 1?
It's a great game, but quite different from Earthbound. Its focus lies more on more engaging gameplay than story/characters/atmosphere.

> Do I miss story if I skip it?
Very little of it (you could read it online if you wish). It's not crucial to understanding SNES EB at all. The direct connection between the games is mostly only in the main villain.

> What is the definitive version of Mother 1?
Earthbound (U) (Prototype). Earthbound Beginnings on Virtual Console uses the same ROM.

> Is it a finished game?
It's a completely finished and translated game. It was ready for a release but got cancelled. The ROM, however, got leaked.

> What makes the NES prototype better than the other versions?
First, it's an official English translation of the game. Second, it has some improvements over the original, including an ability to run (crucial), an expanded ending, several bug fixes, etc. GBA version keeps all of these changes and adds a quick check button, but it has a lower screen space and much worse audio.

> Can I buy it on an official cart?
You can't. Earthbound for NES was finished but never got a release, hence the carts were never printed.

> What are my options if I want to play it on original hardware?
Either a flashcart or, undesirably, a reproduction cart. If you're dead set on it, you could buy a Mother cart and play it in Japanese.

> What is a Demiforce Hack?
Originally, back when the game was released, it didn't work properly on some emulators. So it was hacked by its release team to address this issue. Nowadays most emulators play the game without any hacks.

> I've heard the game is grindy, should I play an easy mode hack?
This is mostly bullshit. The game is only somewhat more difficult than Mother 2/SNES Earthbound. All I can say is that if you want the authentic experience, play it in the original form.