VGBA-Android 3.9.9 with improved Cheatopedia

Hello, All!

I have published VGBA-Android 4.3.10 to the Google Play Store today:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

This update fixes the ARM V flag computation on x86 Android, adds the often requested slow-motion mode, and extends Cheatopedia with more Pokemon Fire Red cheats, submitted by users.

More importantly, Android Kitkat users should now be able to run games from their SD cards. As you know, Kitkat restricts third-party apps from creating or modifying files on the external SD card. Because of this limitation, if you store your games on an SD card, VGBA will save your gameplay and screenshots to the "VGBA" folder in the internal storage. If this folder does not exist, VGBA will save to the app-specific SD card folder, where it is permitted to write. Please note that all app-specific folders are deleted when you uninstall the app, so you may want to manually create that "VGBA" folder, or simply keep all your GBA games in the internal storage, avoiding Google's draconian restrictions.

ALL CHANGES:
* Fixed ARM V-flag computation after subtraction (Caravan Heart works).
* Added slow-motion mode, combined with fast-forward mode.
* Added more Pokemon Fire Red cheats to the Cheatopedia.
* Made a work-around for external SD card use on KitKat!
* If can't write to external SD card, saving states to /storage/sdcard0/VGBA.
* If VGBA folder doesn't exist, saving states to /storage/sdcard1/Android/data/com.fms.vgba/files.
* Fixed a crash in Cheatopedia, when displaying the list.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

Just released VGBA-Android 4.3.12 to the Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

Those Kitkat users, who had problems with Cheatopedia in the last release, should find Cheatopedia working now. Same goes for .IPS patches support. People with Moga gamepads and other analog controllers are now able to adjust their analog controllers sensitivity. There have been many fixes to the File Selector and a few UI enhancements. See the complete change list below.

ALL CHANGES:
* Fixed Cheatopedia and IPS patches on Kitkat, when running games from SD card.
* Added "Analog Joystick Blind Radius" setting for Moga and other analog joysticks.
* Added "Show File Selector Toolbar" option to the File Selector.
* Added "Settings" menu option to the File Selector.
* Fixed a File Selector crash, when deleting a file.
* Fixed auxillary files display in the File Selector.
* Fixed sections navigation in the File Selector.
* Fixed scanline effects with OpenGLES enabled.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

I have updated VGBA-Android, my GameBoy Advance emulator, to version 4.3.13 today:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

The updated version fixes the network play, for people who had connection problems. It also introduces a tilt joystick sensitivity setting and adds cheats for 7 more games to the Cheatopedia, including three Rugrats games.

ALL CHANGES:
* Fixed network play, although it is still slow.
* Added "Tilt Joystick Blind Radius" setting.
* Improved melodic audio quality.
* Added cheats for three Rugrats games to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc to the Cheatopedia.
* Added R-Type 3: The Third Lightning to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Prehistorik Man to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Sabre Wulf to the Cheatopedia.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

The new VGBA-Android update, version 4.3.14, is now ready to download from the Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

Starting with this version, there is a GBA-like decorative background when running VGBA in portrait mode. I have tried to make the an nice looking, low-key background, to avoid interfering with the controls, but if you have a better idea for a background, send it in. I have also fixed a problem where touching anywhere on the screen, while holding the directional pad, was interpreted as holding that pad with two fingers. Also, lucky Xperia owners should find their circle button working. If it still isn't, let me know. Finally, I have added four more games to the Cheatopedia. Enjoy!

ALL CHANGES:
* Added decorative background that looks like a real GBA SP.
* Fixed directional pad activated by touching outside.
* Hopefully fixed "O" button on Sony Xperia gamepads.
* Fixed cheats not showing up automatically for recently added games.
* Added Gauntlet Dark Legacy to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Galidor to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Monster Force to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Phalanx to the Cheatopedia.

Hello, All!

I have released the VGBA-Android 4.4, a new version of my GameBoy Advance emulator:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

In this release, I am introducing the Box Art Downloader function, that searches and downloads cover art images of your games. You can either enable it permanently via the File Selector menu, or search for an individual game cover by selecting "Download Box Art" from the context menu. Keep in mind that not every cover can be found and sometimes the search may return a wrong image. To save network bandwidth, the Box Art Downloader only works over WiFi.

I have also been trying to make DropBox users' life easier. With the new VGBA, you no longer need to enter the password every time you use DropBox. Also, as you finish playing a DropBox game, your gameplay state will be automatically uploaded back into the DropBox.

There were other changes as well. See below for details.

ALL CHANGES:
* Improved sound chip emulation, adding GBA-specific bits to channel #3.
* Added box art downloader that searches and downloads game box images.
* DropBox no longer requires login every time you open it.
* Gameplay saved back to DropBox after you are done playing.
* Added "Download Box Art" option to the File Selector menus.
* Added Gallery support for SD card folders on Android Kitkat.
* Added DropBox upload from SD card folders on Android Kitkat.
* Gallery now shows box art, as well as screenshots.
* Improved background image in portrait mode.
* Upgraded DropBox SDK to the latest version.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

I have updated VGBA-Android, my GameBoy Advance emulator, to version 4.4.1 today:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

Whoever complained about .ZIP file problems, your pleas have been answered in this release. VGBA is now able to use .ZIP files from SD cards inserted into Kitkat devices. As it cannot unpack these files in-place, the unzipped ROMs are now cached in the application's private directory. Running .ZIP files from Internal storage, on rooted and pre-Kitkat devices works as it did before.

I have also added the ability to assign and use the "O" button on Xperia Play devices and made the backdrop image customizable. Or, you can disable the backdrop completely, via the "General | Show Portrait Backdrop" option.

ALL CHANGES:
* Fixed support for .ZIP files stored on Kitkat SD cards.
* No longer showing box art for .ZIP files, as we cannot identify them.
* Now allowing to remap the "O" button on Xperia Play gamepad.
* Made backdrop optional (see "General | Show Portrait Backdrop").
* You can now supply your own backdrop in /sdcard/VGBA/Backdrop.png.
* Added two Lilo and Stitch games to the Cheatopedia.
* Added two Kim Possible games to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Peter Pan and Catwoman to the Cheatopedia.

Have a nice weekend! :)

Hello, All!

The next VGBA-Android 4.4.2 release has arrived to the Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

The hardware media keys will now save, restore, and replay your gameplay. If you do not have media keys, assign these functions to any other key on your gamepad or keyboard via "Input | Assign Keys".

Also, I am no longer prohibiting LuckyPatcher use. Too many users complained about not being able to run my emulators with LuckyPatcher installed, so from now on you will see a warning, but no crash. Please, do not use this as an excuse to pirate my apps: I can't keep developing them if people keep stealing them.

There is now proper, hopefully painless Wiimote support. You won't even need to assign anything, just enable "Input | Wiimote Support" in the Settings. Also, the BACK button found on some gamepads should be fully usable and assignable.

Finally, while testing VGBA on a real x86-based Android tablet, I have found a problem with the scanline effects and fixed it. Glad to say that these x86 Dell Venue tablets run VGBA very smoothly, even with all the special effects enabled.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added "Input | Wiimote Support" option for easy and painless Wiimote support.
* LuckyPatcher use now accepted, by public demand, but you will see a warning.
* Gamepad BACK button fully usable and assignable.
* Fixed scanline effects on x86-based Android devices.
* Added custom key assignments for freezing, restoring, and replaying gameplay.
* Added "General | Confirm Freezing State" option for people who tend hitting "Freeze" by mistake.
* Tested VGBA on real a x86-based Android device (Dell Venue 8).
* Fixed crashes when downloading DropBox files.
* The "REWIND" hardware key now replays recent gameplay.
* The "RECORD" hardware key now freezes gameplay state.
* The "PLAY" hardware key now restores gameplay state.
* No longer showing box art for .ZIP files, as we cannot identify them.
* Moved "Screen Orientation" and "Keep Screen On" to the "Video" tab.
* Reordered items in the "Video" tab.

Have fun! :)

Hello, All!

I have just released VGBA-Android 4.4.3, a new version of my GameBoy Advance emulator:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

Starting with this release, I am switching to the new Layout Editor that lets you control individual joystick button sizes, shape and opacity. It also shows button labels (something it has been missing for a while) and the screen edges buttons stick to. If the new Layout Editor is not working for you, or you have a suggestion about it, please, email me.

Also, the "Assign Keys" screen will now show current key assignments for each button. It is another obvious feature that should have been there from the start.

ALL CHANGES:
* Now showing current key assignments in "Assign Keys".
* Replaced "Edit Layout" option with "Edit Virtual Joystick".
* Buttons can be individually resized in Joystick Editor.
* Added scale, shape, and transparency options to Joystick Editor.
* Added gravity indication with dotted lines to Joystick Editor.
* Added button labels to Joystick Editor.
* Removed separate joystick size, shape, and opacity settings.
* Reordered items in the "Input" tab.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

Today, I am rolling out VGBA-Android 4.4.6, a new version of my GameBoy Advance emulator:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

The new version lets you move and resize the game screen. Simply go to "Input | Edit Virtual Joystick" and drag or resize the blue screen rectangle with your fingers. Landscape and portrait screens have separate settings. This feature has been requested by many users, so here it is.

I have also fixed a bunch of issues in the Joystick Editor and added a hack to make some previously broken hardware keyboards work. If you can't use your Bluetooth keyboard, enable "Input | Ignore Fake KeyUp Events" and see if it helps.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added screen resizing/positioning to the Joystick Editor.
* Added "Input | Ignore Fake KeyUp Events" option to make misbehaving keyboards work.
* Added backdrop image to the Joystick Editor.
* Fixed joystick shape changes in the Joystick Editor.
* Fixed joystick resizing/positioning in the Joystick Editor.
* Fixed backdrop image shifting down after rotation.
* Removed some outdated code that is no longer relevant.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

I have been busy fixing GBA emulation bugs this week. As result, Sword of Mana, Rayman 3, and a few other popular games work flawlessly in the new VGBA-Android 4.5:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

As users keep asking me for compatibility with other GBA emulators, I am now now storing in-game saves in VBA-compatible .SAV files, by default. You no longer need to enable this feature in the Settings and manually rename files. Finally, I have fixed a few native code crashes that appeared after introducing the custom screen feature. If you experienced crashes recently, they should be gone now.

ALL CHANGES:
* Now saving VBA-compatible .SAV files by default.
* Disabling windows with invalid coordinates (fixed black screen in Sword Of Mana).
* Resetting rotation when BG size changes (fixed Rayman 3 Swamp Zone).
* If Duel Masters doesn't work for you, truncate it to 4MB, 8MB file is wrong.
* Fixed After Burner in Sega Arcade Gallery (by handling illegal reads).
* Fixed playfield and in-game saves in Crazy Taxi (no longer hangs).
* Fixed screenshots when using custom-positioned screen.
* Fixed crash when drawing custom-positioned screen.
* Fixed accidental crash when drawing overlay.

Have fun!

The new VGBA-Android 4.5.2 release is now on Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

I have been fixing pending emulation issues lately, so this release makes 10+ previously broken games from my bug list work. I also looked at the problem where some VGBA threads remained running after quitting the app, tying up CPU and memory. This problem should be gone now. Finally, as VGBA-Android now stores in-game saves in plain binary format, I've removed the "Save VBA Save File on Exit" option: you will no longer need it.

ALL CHANGES:
* Removed "Save VBA Save File on Exit" option, as no longer necessary.
* Implemented proper shutdown of DropBox and BoxArt threads at exit.
* Fixed stale timer thread remaining after exiting a game.
* Went through the global bug list fixing various emulation bugs.
* Fixed hangups in E.T., Worms World Party, Black Belt Challenge.
* Fixed playfield in Nicktoons Racing.
* Fixed dialogs in Scooby Doo Mystery Mayhem.
* Fixed sprites in Barbie Horse Adventures.
* Fixed background scroll in Altered Beast.
* Fixed sound in Monster Truck Madness.
* Fixed level finish in Hugo Evil Mirror.
* Fixed a bunch of other, mostly Japanese games.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

In VGBA-Android 4.5.3, released today, I have fixed a nasty bug that left multiple "zombie" processes as you used VGBA and heavily optimized the utility library, for faster startup times:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

The new VGBA computes many utility function results just once and does not start Google Analytics until needed. This gives you faster game startup and snappier switching between Settings, Cheatopedia, Netplay, and other activities. I have also removed the AdMob library, as I am not planning to show any ads.

The cheaters among you will be glad to see cheat codes for two more Dragonball games, updated Castlevania: Harmony Of Dissonance codes, new Spyro and James Bond cheats.

ALL CHANGES:
* Eliminated multiple zombie processes created when starting activities.
* Reduced game start times by moving many common values to globals.
* Reduced switch times between activities (Settings, Exchange, etc).
* Only starting Google Analytics tracker when needed.
* Keeping just one instance of Google Analytics tracker.
* Removed AdMob library, as VGBA is not running any ads.
* Added new Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance cheats to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Dragonball GT: Transformation to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Dragonball Z: Taiketsu to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Airforce Delta Storm to the Cheatopedia.
* Added James Bond 007: Nightfire to the Cheatopedia.
* Added James Bond 007: Everything or Nothing to the Cheatopedia.

Happy new school year :)

Hello, All!

Starting today, September 18 2014, I am making VGBA-Windows free for everyone to use and share. As you probably know, VGBA is the oldest GameBoy Advance emulator out there and you can now download it directly from the home page:

http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/

The new VGBA-Windows 4.5 includes many changes, fixes, and improvements accumulated in VGBA-Android releases over the last few years. I continue developing it though, so if you have complaints or suggestions, report them in this discussion group:

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!newtopic/emul8

Following is somewhat complete list of changes between VGBA-Windows 4.5 and the previous paid version 3.6. I will update VGBA-Unix to the latest version shortly.

ALL CHANGES.
* Improved audio quality.
* Now saving VBA-compatible .SAV files by default.
* Added GameShark cheats emulation (both v1 and v3).
* Added backward compatibility with VBA .SAV files.
* Added week day register to the RTC emulation.
* Added light sensor emulation (Boktai and Boktai 2).
* Added gyro sensor emulation (Warioware Twisted).
* Added tilt sensor emulation (Yoshi Topsy Turvy, etc).
* Fixed RumblePak emulation (Warioware Twisted and Drill Dozer).
* Fixed sprite color blending (Boktai 2 and other games).
* Fixed FlashROM saves in Pokemon and other games.
* No longer generating HBlank and VBlank IRQs at the same time (EZ-Talk).
* No longer allowing ICount to fall too far behind after a DMA transfer (Lego Racers 2, etc.).
* Fixed rotation parameters initialization in ResetGBA() (Lego Racers 2, etc.).
* Fixed ResetCPU() to request THUMB-to-ARM switch from the emulation loop.
* Fixed handling of >16MB games by disabling EEPROM at 0x09000000.
* Fixed ArcTan2() BIOS function (Mario and Luigi dyeing minigame).
* Fixed SoftReset() BIOS function, no longer accepting an argument.
* Fixed CPUSet() BIOS function (Galidor and Final Fantasy 6).
* Fixed RegisterRAMReset() BIOS function to unconditionally reset DISPCONT and BLDCONT VDP registers (Spyro+Crash Fusion).
* Fixed tilt sensor emulation to use separate developer supplied Tilt() function rather than FIREL/FIRER button bits.
* Added BIOS read protection to ARMonARM emulation (Tetris Worlds, Onimusha Tactics, Salt Lake City 2002, etc.).
* Fixed ARM V-flag computation after subtraction (Caravan Heart).
* Fixed THUMB PUSH instruction for cases where DMA is initiated with PUSH.
* Fixed MOVLR/BLL instruction sequence in THUMB mode to correctly perform a call (Mario Golf Advance Tour).
* Fixed LDM/STM instructions accessing stack at misaligned addresses (Mario Golf Advance Tour).
* Fixed a typo in the SMLAL instruction (Lego Racers 2, etc.).
* Fixed color #0 transparency in VDP MODE4.
* Fixed -ds command line parameter to take values from 0 ("mute") to 3 ("fast").
* Disabling windows with invalid coordinates (fixed Sword Of Mana).
* Resetting rotation when BG size changes (fixed Rayman 3 Swamp Zone).
* Fixed After Burner in Sega Arcade Gallery (by handling illegal reads).
* Fixed playfield and in-game saves in Crazy Taxi (no longer hangs).
* VGBA-Windows, VGBA-MSDOS, and VGBA-Unix now use mouse buttons to simulate tilt sensor.
* Switched VGBA-Windows to Direct3D in full-screen mode.
* Fixed VGBA-Unix to correctly restore sound when mouse focus returns to the window.
* Reduced audio latency setting in VGBA-Unix to 50ms.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

Today's VGBA-Android 4.6 release adds the Cheat Hunter feature that lets you hunt for your own cheat codes in games:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

Search for cheats in these few simple steps:
1) Start a game and select "Cheats | Cheat Hunter | Add Watch".
2) Enter the value to search for (money amount, ammo count, lives), how it changes, and the replacement value (like 99).
3) Play the game to make the watched value change.
4) Select "Cheats | Cheat Hunter | Scan for Changes" to find changed memory locations.
5) Repeat previous two steps several times, to minimize false positives.
6) Select "Cheats | Cheat Hunter | Create Cheats" to add and enable found cheat codes.
7) To edit newly found cheats, use "Cheats | Edit Cheats".

Enjoy your new cheat codes!

Hello, All!

VGBA-Android 4.6.2, released today, fixes a rather serious bug that completely skewed 32bit memory access timings on ARM devices (i.e. 99% of all Android devices):

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

As result, the hangups in Metroid Fusion and Wario Land 4, as well as other hangups the users have not yet complained about, are completely gone. In addition, Pokemon players with different Pokemon games (Leaf Green, Fire Red, Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald) should now be able to interconnect using network play.

ALL CHANGES:
* Fixed serious bug with 32bit memory access timings (were completely wrong on ARM).
* Fixed Wario Land 4 hangup after jumping onto the blue frog.
* Fixed Metroid Fusion hangup during intro sequence.
* Players with different Pokemon games can connect over NetPlay now.
* MULS/MLAS instructions no longer change C/V flags.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

You can now pick up free VGBA 4.6 for Windows or Ubuntu Linux from the home page:

http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/

The VGBA-Windows 4.6 has got a built-in utility to search for game cheats. Press F5 and select "Search cheats" to activate. VGBA-Linux 4.6 comes with a long list of additions and fixes, accumulated since 2008, when the last Linux binaries were released. These include better sound, wider compatibility, cheats, instant replay (press F8 to activate), and more.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

I have just released VGBA-Android 4.7 that addresses the remaining complaints about the sound quality:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

The VGBA audio has improved a lot over the past few years, but some glitches still remain. Today's release attempts to fix these last glitches. I have corrected an arithmetic error that occurred when mixing direct sound channels and added a buffer to take care of an occasional jitter. Clicks in Castlevania and Metroid title sequences should be gone now, as well as crackling sounds in Golden Sun and many other games.

A few users also wanted to have individual backdrop images for each game. Your wish has been granted, just call your image Game.back.png and place it into the same folder where Game.gba is.

ALL CHANGES:
* Corrected remaining sound problems, fixing audio in many games.
* Added large safety buffer to account for audio jitter.
* Fixed arithmetic bug in the EMULib audio mixing routine.
* Each game can have own backdrop. For Game.gba, place it into Game.gba.back.png.
* Cleaned audio in Metroid Fusion and Metroid Zero Mission.
* Fixed scratching sounds in Castlevania: Circle Of The Moon title.
* Fixed distortions in Golden Sun and Golden Sun 2 intros.
* Aligning backdrop to the bottom on stretched screens.
* Moved GBA timers emulation into a separate function.
* Removed debug messages from the BIOS emulation.
* Added explanation messages to the Cheat Hunter.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

This week's VGBA-Android 4.7.1 release fixes several emulation bugs and improves emulation of the legacy sound chip that GBA has inherited from the original GameBoy:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

I have fixed the corrupted background in Golden Sun, reported by some users, by correctly resetting the background rotation parameters when its priority is changed. Similar problem affected Rayman, but was fixed a while ago. The invalid memory read that made Zelda hang at the top of a castle tower has been fixed as well.

For Android KitKat+ users, I've also added the "immersive mode" that completely removes all system controls when you are playing a game. You can temporarily restore the controls by pulling down from the top of the screen. Please note that even if you are using an older Android, you will still need to fling your finger from the top in order to show the title bar. This is done to avoid erroneous flings. Also, with the auto-hide option enabled, the title bar will disappear after 5 seconds.

ALL CHANGES:
* Fixed resetting rotation when background priority changes.
* Fixed corrupted background in Golden Sun battles.
* Fixed hangup in Legend Of Zelda: The Minish Cap.
* Fixed GB noise channel emulation.
* Fixed restoring GB sound chip state.
* Added immersive mode support for KitKat and newer.
* Autohiding title bar when "Hide Title Bar" enabled.
* You must start or finish your fling at the top to toggle title bar.
* No longer muffling legacy noise channel (no more need).
* Added configurable random noise generator to EMULib.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

In advance of the holidays, I have updated VGBA-Android to version 4.7.4 and released the new VGBA-Windows 4.7 for free:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba (Android)
http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/ (Windows)

The Android version has got translucent navigation bars and separate settings for hardware media keys (PLAY, RECORD, FFWD, REWIND). If you like playing while listening to the music player, these settings will come handy. Also, VGBA-Android now speaks French! :)

The Windows version fixes several emulation bugs and greatly improves the audio. The sound glitches should now be gone from most games.

CHANGES IN VGBA-Android 4.7.4:
* Made system UI translucent when immersive mode is on.
* Added "Use PLAY/RECORD Media Keys" option.
* When enabled, RECORD saves, PLAY restores gameplay.
* Added "Use FFWD/REWIND Media Keys" option.
* When enabled, FFWD fast-forwards, REWIND replays.
* Added French translation, thanks to Sylvain St-Amand.

CHANGES IN VGBA-Windows 4.7:
* Fixed corrupted background in Golden Sun battles.
* Fixed hangup and walk-then-roll in Legend Of Zelda: The Minish Cap.
* Greatly improved sound quality, fixing audio in many games.
* Resetting rotation when background priority changes, not size.
* Added large ring buffer to account for audio jitter.
* Added correct legacy noise channel emulation.
* Added configurable random noise generator to EMULib.
* Fixed restoring legacy sound chip state.
* Fixed arithmetic bug in the EMULib audio mixing routine.
* Moved GBA timers emulation into a separate function.
* No longer muffling legacy noise channel (no more need).
* Cleaned audio in Metroid Fusion and Metroid Zero Mission.
* Fixed scratching sounds in Castlevania: Circle Of The Moon title.
* Fixed distortions in Golden Sun and Golden Sun 2 intros.
* Removed debug messages from the BIOS emulation, making things faster.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello, All!

I recently got a new Android phone and started improving VGBA for bigger screens and modern Android features. The VGBA-Android 4.8 adds multi-window and mini-window support on Samsung Galaxy devices, so that you can run VGBA side by side with other apps:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

I have also added assembly-optimized routines for scaling GBA display to 1280x800+ Android screens, so it now looks bigger and better on high resolution devices. If it is still too small for you, enable "Hardware Accelerated Video" to make it fill the whole screen, at the cost of slight fuzziness.

Many people asked for a way to search for a game by name. The new File Selector Search now lets you enter a keyword when starting search, or leave it empty to find ALL your GBA games.

Finally, I have fixed a bunch of nasty Android-related bugs. The automatic frame skip and hardware accelerated audio are once again enabled by default when you install VGBA. The screen no longer shakes when you enable both auto frame skip and OpenGLES, and the problem pulling the title bar on some phones has been fixed.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added multi-window and mini-window support on Samsung devices.
* Added searching by name to the File Selector Search.
* Added assembler routines for scaling GBA screen to 1280+ pixels.
* Fixed auto frame skip when accelerated video enabled.
* Fixed reenabling UI with a fling on Kitkat+ phones.
* Reenabled automatic frame skip by default.
* Reenabled accelerated audio by default.
* You can now fling from the top or the bottom to toggle UI.
* Removed deprecated code, settings, and resources.

Enjoy!

Hello, Everyone!

Here is the last VGBA-Android release this year:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...d=com.fms.vgba

VGBA-Android 4.8.1 adds an option to always show box art over screenshots, fixes hangups when using accelerated video on devices using Mali GPU (Samsung, Rockchip, etc) and makes screenshots display bigger on larger screens. As most people do not like to see any decorations during gameplay, VGBA now hides the title bar by default. Pull it down to reenable.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added "Show Box Art First" option to the File Selector.
* Fixed OpenGLES lockups on Mali GPUs (Samsung, RK, etc).
* Fixed flickering border when simulating scanlines on x86 devices.
* Made screenshots and box art display bigger on large screens.
* Hiding the title bar is now the default behavior.
* Fixed premature hiding of the title bar.

Merry Christmas!

Hello, All!

It looks like Google has removed my VGBA app from the Google Play, claiming that "screenshots violate third party intellectual property" and "the application icon looks deceptive". As ludicrous as both these claims are, I am currently talking to Google drones, trying to resolve the issue. As these corporate human replacements are unable to maintain an intelligent conversation and keep responding with canned replies, it looks like I will have to republish VGBA under a new package name, meaning that everyone who needs an update will have to pay for it again.

Because I do not want people to pay twice for the same thing, I am currently working to extend VGBA with new features that make it worth the extra money. I should have a new version published the next week. In the meanwhile, you can find the new free VGBA-Windows and VGBA-Linux 4.8 packages at the VGBA home page:

http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/

Most changes are platform-specific, optimizing the way GBA screen is rendered.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

As you probably know, a while ago Google has banned my VGBA emulator from the Google Play, citing intellectual property violation by the screenshots. Since arguing with Google corporate drones is impossible nowadays, I had to publish a new emulator package, compliant with all possible objections they might have.

Meet The Emulator, emulating stuff since 1993:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

I understand that there are many current VGBA users disappointed by losing the app they have paid for and having to pay for a new app. While I cannot do much about it, I have taken two steps to ease your pain and make it worthwhile:

1) The Emulator now combines both VGBA and VGB functionality. It emulates GameBoy Advance, GameBoy Color, GameBoy Classic, and Super GameBoy, in one handy package.

2) For a limited time of two weeks, I am offering The Emulator for $1.99, to let every current VGBA user jump back in. Of course, some new users will use this opportunity as well, as I have no way to tell who is who, but it is ok. :)

Have fun and sorry for all the trouble!

Hello, All!

As you know, I had to replace the VGBA-Android app, removed by Google, with the new Emulator app. I have since renamed the new app to "VGBAnext", releasing the first major update today:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

Unlike VGBA, VGBAnext supports *both* GameBoy Advance and GameBoy Color games, and also GameBoy Classic and Super GameBoy. In VGBAnext 1.1, I have switched to the Material Design theme, with the flat title bar, new navigation, and light backgrounds. I have also updated all the icons (including app icon) and redesigned menus to make them all work uniformly. People who could not save gameplay for DropBoxed games, should find this bug fixed now.

Please, note that VGBAnext is available for $1.99 for another week, to let all current VGBA users jump in. This is the best I can do at the moment, with Google disabling the original VGBA.

ALL CHANGES:
* Switched to the Material Design theme.
* Added new app icon showing both GBA and GB.
* Added "up" buttons to all title bars.
* Revised all menus, making them work uniformly.
* Fixed uploading state back to DropBox after playing.
* Updated all icons to the newest Lollipop versions.
* Retired some icons, replacing them with better fitting ones.
* Removed application name from all title bars, to save space.
* Now defaulting to the "light UI" mode.

Have fun!

Hello, Everyone!

The VGBAnext 1.2 for Android is now online and ready for download:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

In this release, I have added initial support for AndroidTV. Unfortunately, not having an AndroidTV, I cannot fully test it. If you have one of these devices, please, try VGBAnext on it and tell me how well it works (or doesn't). I also continued fixing and updating the user interface. The File Selector Grid View has got Lollipop-like tiles, or "cards", and various UI warts in the Gallery, State Exchange, State Selector, and the Palette Editor have been eliminated.

As I have to start from scratch with VGBAnext (my long running VGBA app banned by Google), I would like to ask anyone who likes VGBA and VGBAnext to review VGBAnext on the Google Play. Please, do waste a minute or two writing that feedback: it really helps me to get more users (something I need) and make a better app (something you need).

ALL CHANGES:
* Added experimental AndroidTV support. Please, test!
* Added tiles to the File Selector grid view.
* Fixed screenshots and highlight in the State Selector.
* Fixed Moga library to work on Android Lollipop.
* Fixed screenshot sizes int the State Exchange.
* Fixed black banding in the Palette Editor.
* Fixed text color in the Gallery.
* Switched to android-21 API, as required for AndroidTV.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

The new version of VGBAnext is now ready for download:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

VGBAnext 1.2.3 further improves the grid view, presenting each game with a raised tile (like Google Play does). On Android TVs, the grid view should come up automagically when you install VGBAnext. Also, the TV users should now be able to reassign their gamepad buttons with the "Assign Keys" option. Once you are done assigning buttons, press the dpad center button to confirm your assignments and close the dialog box. Finally, I have added cheats for 10 more games to the Cheatopedia. Enjoy! :)

ALL CHANGES:
* Cleaned up and beautified the grid view in the File Selector.
* When assigning keys, DPAD_CENTER button confirms assignments.
* Attached original VGBA history of changes to VGBAnext changelog.
* Added cheats for Bubble Bobble and Butt Ugly Martians.
* Added cheats for Chessmaster and Colin McRae Rally 2.
* Added cheats for Donald Duck Advance and Dual Blades.
* Added cheats for F1 2002 and Flintstones.
* Added cheats for Cubix: Robots for Everyone.
* Added cheats for Gem Smashers.

Hello, All!

This week's VGBAnext 1.2.5 release continues lollipopping (lollipooping?) the user interface, adding the top-left corner navigation menu and the optional tiles to the File Selector:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

Please, keep in mind that some menu options have migrated to the navigation menu. To get tiles in the grid view, enable both "Grid View" and "Show Tiles" options. Starting with this release, VGBAnext will also look for a user supplied game database in the /sdcard/VGBAnext/names.dat file. Each line should contain the unique ROM identifier, in the "GBA-xxx*" or "GB-xx..x" format, and the real game name. Finally, I added cheat codes for Prince Of Persia and five Sponge Bob games to the Cheatopedia.

ALL CHANGES:
* You can add your own game names database in "/sdcard/VGBAnext/names.dat".
* Added navigation menu to the File Selector.
* Added tile view to the File Selector.
* Added "up" button to the main emulator title bar.
* Made "grid view" and "tile view" options separate.
* Moved File Selector view toggles to the navigation menu.
* VGBAnext now shows up in the Google Play for AndroidTV.
* Added Prince of Persia: Sands of Time cheats.
* Added cheats for five Sponge Bob Square Pants games.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

You can now download the latest VGBAnext 1.2.6 from the Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

This release fixes the score bar in Pinball Tycoon and probably a bunch of other games, by properly resetting the rotation parameters on VDPCNT register changes. I have also fixed a crash when reporting deprecated package version and added cheats for 13 new GBA and GB games.

Please note that VGBAnext replaces the original VGBA app banned by Google. So far, I have not been able to make Google reenable VGBA or switch existing VGBA users to the new app.

ALL CHANGES:
* Now resetting rotation when screen mode changes.
* Fixed score bar in Pinball Tycoon.
* Fixed crash when detecting an outdated version.
* Enabled application-wide hardware acceleration.
* Moved GB options straight into Emulation Settings.
* Improved "What's New" page formatting.
* Added Ice Age and Increidble Hulk GBA cheats.
* Added Iridion3D and Iridion II GBA cheats.
* Added Karnaaj Rally and Hey Arnold GBA cheats.
* Added Adventure of Lolo and Catz GB cheats.
* Added Alfred Chicken and Casper GB cheats.
* Added Croc and Croc 2 GB cheats.
* Added Airforce Delta GB cheats.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

VGBAnext 1.3, my universal GameBoy emulator, is now ready for download:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

The new version comes with the floating action button requested by many users. Pressing the button will run the last game you have played. If you do not like the new feature, simply uncheck the "Show Floating Action Button" option in "Settings | General".

I have got an Nvidia Shield Portable and thoroughly tested VGBAnext on this gaming handheld. The new button assignments let you easily use the File Selector without ever touching Shield's screen. The same assignments should also work with Xperia Play, or any gamepad you may have.

Finally, there has been a couple of fixes to the GameBoy Classic emulation. The PCM sound pitch problem, so many people complained about, has been fixed. This affects the music in Pokemon Yellow, among other games. I have also fixed the hardware window display, making menus show up in Duke Nukem.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added floating action button that starts the last played game.
* Added "Show Floating Action Button" option to the Settings.
* Fixed window display in old GameBoy (Duke Nukem and other games).
* Fixed legacy wave sound pitch (Pokemon Yellow, Baloon Kid, etc).
* Removed waveform interpolation for more realistic sound.
* Optimized legacy wave sound emulation.
* Optimized controls for Nvidia SHIELD Portable and similar devices.
* FIRE-R, FIRE-Y, and SELECT buttons open File Selector main menu.
* FIRE-X button opens File Selector navigation menu.
* FIRE-L button opens Gallery from the File Selector.
* FIRE-B button now exits File Selector.
* Fixed "About VGBAnext" banner.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

After getting an AndroidTV device (ADT-1), I have been improving VGBAnext for AndroidTV and other gamepad-only Android devices. The newest VGBAnext 1.3.1 adds many optimizations that will make your big-screen gameplay enjoyable:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

First of all, I have added the overscan padding, required to make application fit your TV screen. I have also changed the application banner so that it looks sharper and more similar to built-in app banners.

On the gamepad front, you should now be able to exit emulation with the BACK key and open the menu with the MODE key. If your gamepad has no MODE or MENU keys, just press A+BACK for the menu. Furthermore, if your gamepad has no SELECT or START keys, X and Y will do their job now.

The key mapping dialog ("Settings | Input | Assign Keys") has also been changed. Pressing the same key twice unmaps it, pressing it three times confirms the dialog. You can still cancel the dialog with the BACK key at any time.

As this release contains some major UI changes, I would especially like to know of any problems you are having with it. Please, either email me or post to the EMUL8 discussion forum:

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/emul8

ALL CHANGES:
* Optimized app for AndroidTV, tested on the ADT-1 box.
* Added overscan border on AndroidTV devices.
* Added hints to the emulator and key mapping dialog.
* Fixed crashes on devices with no web browser (e.g. ADT-1).
* Replaced AndroidTV banner image.
* Enabled gamepad-only emulation interface.
* Press BACK on gamepad to exit emulation.
* Press MODE or BUTTON_A+BACK to open menu.
* Press BUTTON_X if you have no SELECT button.
* Press BUTTON_Y if you have no START button.
* Xperia CIRCLE button now acts as BUTTON_B.
* Redesigned key mapping dialog.
* Press same key twice to remove it from assignments.
* Press same key three times to confirm key mappings.
* DPAD_CENTER key no longer confirms key mappings.

Enjoy :)

Hello, All!

The new VGBAnext 1.3.2 is now available from Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

This release adds "Reset All Settings" option that lets you return to default settings without having to reinstall the app. For people with gamepads, R1 shoulder button now invokes the context menu in the File Selector. Finally, I have added six more games to the Cheatopedia.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added "General | Reset All Settings" option.
* Pressing BUTTON_R1 now invokes File Selector context menu.
* Added Super Robot Taisen J cheats to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Namco Museum cheats to the Cheatopedia.
* Added NASCAR Heat 2002 cheats to the Cheatopedia.
* Added NBA Jam 2002 cheats to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Spirits And Spells cheats to the Cheatopedia.
* Added Tarzan: Return To The Jungle cheats to the Cheatopedia.

Enjoy!

In the new VGBAnext 1.3.3 release, I cleaned up several virtual gamepad skins and switched to Material Design action bar icons throughout the app:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

If you still see a non-material piece of the UI anywhere, please, let me know. I have also added cheat codes for 7 more GameBoy Advance games and 12 more GameBoy Classic games. See below for the complete list.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added Material Design icons everywhere.
* Retouched virtual gamepad images.
* Added cheats for Aero The Acrobat.
* Added cheats for Alienators: Evolution Continues.
* Added cheats for Angelic Layer (Japanese).
* Added cheats for Around The World In 80 Days.
* Added cheats for ATV Quad Power Racing.
* Added cheats for two Battlebots games.
* Added cheats for Elmo in Grouchland and Emperor's New Groove.
* Added cheats for Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back and Fish Dude.
* Added cheats for Faceball 2000 and Fist Of The North Star.
* Added cheats for F-1 Race and F-18 Thunder Strike.
* Added cheats for Famista and Famista 2.
* Added cheats for Frogger and Frogger 2.

Have fun!

Hello, All!

VGBAnext 1.3.4, the new release of the universal GameBoy Advance, GameBoy Color, and GameBoy Classic emulator, is now ready:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

The Joystick Layout Editor is once again fully operational. I have fixed several issues, including gravity lines not moving and the size/skin/opacity changes not showing up. I have also added support for the second Super GameBoy player, as long as you have a second gamepad connected. This should work for all Super GameBoy games supporting more than one player. Make sure both gamepads are connected before you start VGBAnext though. Finally, there are cheats for 8 more GameBoy Advance games, including Pitfall, Pirates Of The Caribbean, and Oddworld.

ALL CHANGES:
* Super GameBoy games can now be played with two gamepads.
* To play together, connect both gamepads before starting VGBAnext.
* Fixed Joystick Layout Editor to properly show labels and gravity.
* Added cheats for two Pirates Of The Caribbean games.
* Added cheats for two Pitfall games.
* Added cheats for Oddworld: Munch's Oddyssee.
* Added cheats for Operation Armored Liberty.
* Added cheats for Planet Monsters.
* Added cheats for Planet Of The Apes.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

VGBAnext 1.3.5, a new version of my universal GameBoy emulator, has been released:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

This release has been specifically tested and optimized for Nvidia Shield Player and other AndroidTV devices. Pressing both thumbsticks down should open the menu when running a game, something that was a problem with AndroidTV before. I have also released free VGBA 4.9 for Windows and Linux:

http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/

The new Windows release switches to the texture-based Direct3D display rendering and adds an option to stretch GBA display to the full screen. See below for all the changes.

ALL CHANGES:
* VGBAnext tested and optimized for Nvidia Shield AndroidTV device.
* On AndroidTV, press both thumbsticks down to invoke the menu.
* Made "Emulation" tab show "no settings outside emulation" hint.
* Added cheats for Razor Freestyle Scooter to VGBAnext Cheatopedia.
* Added cheats for Reign of Fire to VGBAnext Cheatopedia.
* Added cheats for Revenge of Shinobi to VGBAnext Cheatopedia.
* Removed waveform interpolation for more realistic sound.
* Switched VGBA-Windows to Direct3D textures-based rendering.
* Added "Video | Stretch Full Screen" option to VGBA-Windows.
* Added "Hardware | Debugger" option to VGBA-Windows.
* Added -lcd and -nolcd command line options.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

I have just updated VGBAnext to version 1.3.6:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

This version fixes a crash in the State Exchange feature (that lets people trade gameplay states) and reenables the action bar on devices with physical MENU buttons. Some Cyanogen users complained that their devices misreport MENU button as "present", effectively disabling all menus. This issue should be gone in this new VGBAnext version. I have also added cheats for 11 more games, including SD Gundam, [i[Samurai Jack[/i], Sea Trader, and Sheep.

ALL CHANGES:
* Reenabled action bar on devices with physical MENU key.
* Fixed a crash in the State Exchange browser.
* Added cheats for Samurai Jack: The Amulet of Time.
* Added cheats for Sea Trader: The Rise of Taipan.
* Added cheats for Sabrina: The Teenage Witch.
* Added cheats for Shifting Gears: Road Trip.
* Added cheats for SD Gundam Force.
* Added cheats for Salt Lake 2002.
* Added cheats for four Shrek games.
* Added cheats for Sheep.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

I have released VGBAnext 1.3.7, a new version of my universal GameBoy emulator for Android:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

Starting with this version, you can supply your own virtual joystick skin in /sdcard/VGBAnext/Controls.png. For a sample skin image that you can modify, look here:

http://fms.komkon.org/EmuAndroid/#Skin

Many people, whose Android devices have MENU buttons, have complained that the Cheats and Freeze/Restore menus are "gone" in the previous VGBAnext release. These menus were not gone, but moved to the action bar icons. By public request, I moved them back to the menu. If you do not see the menu, or would like to see the action bar, use the new "General | Enable Action Bar" option in the Settings. Finally, I have added cheats for 27 more GameBoy Color and GameBoy Classic games.

ALL CHANGES:
* Added joystick skins, place your own skin into /sdcard/VGBAnext/Controls.png.
* Sample joystick skin image available at http://fms.komkon.org/EmuAndroid/#Skin.
* Made action bar optional on devices with MENU button (off by default).
* Added "General | Enable Action Bar" option for devices with MENU button.
* Added exception for LG Optimus Zone 2 (does not show submenus).
* Added cheats for 27 GameBoy Color and GameBoy Classic games.
* Added cheats for Addams Family, A Boy And His Blob, Aerostar.
* Added cheats for Adventure Island, Bonk's Adventure, Dracula.
* Added cheats for Avenging Spirit, Blaster Master, Burai Fighter.
* Added cheats for Burger Time Deluxe, Battle City, Choplifter.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

I've released VGBAnext 1.3.8 tonight, the new version of my universal GameBoy emulator:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

This release fixes sound in International Karate and other games that only use "legacy" melodic sound. I have also improved VGBAnext behavior on devices that do not allow writing to external SD card. From now on, if you run games from external storage where state cannot be saved, VGBAnext will automatically create /sdcard/VGBAnext folder in the internal storage and save game states there. Finally, I added cheats for 9 more GameBoy Classic games, including Daikatana and Cutthroat Island.

ALL CHANGES:
* Fixed melodic sound when wave sound disabled (International Karate).
* Removed "DirectSound Off" option from the Advanced Settings menu.
* Now automatically creating /sdcard/VGBAnext if missing.
* When VGBAnext cannot write SD card, it will save to /sdcard/VGBAnext.
* Added cheats for Cyber Tiger and Cyraid.
* Added cheats for Daikatana and Darkman.
* Added cheats for two Daffy Duck games.
* Added cheats for Cool Spot Adventure.
* Added cheats for Crazy Castle.
* Added cheats for Cutthroat Island.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

I have released VGBAnext 1.3.9 tonight, with updated backdrop images and cheats for eight more GBA games:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

Also, starting with this release you can have individual backdrops for each game. For example, if you have a file named Game.gba, place Game.gba.back.png file with the backdrop in the same folder. The preferred size is 640x800, but you can have any size you want. The backdrop will always be cut off at the bottom, as needed.

ALL CHANGES:
* Updated backdrop images in portrait mode, with no gaps.
* Changed backdrop rendering algorithm to the top alignment.
* You can have custom backdrop for Game.gba in Game.gba.back.png.
* Typical backdrop size is 640x800, bottom part may go off-screen.
* Added cheats for Nicktoons Racing and Ninja Five-O.
* Added cheats for No Rules: Get Phat and Paperboy+Rampage.
* Added cheats for Peter Pan: The Movie and Piglet's Big Game.
* Added cheats for Pinball Tycoon and Pinobee: Wings Of Adventure.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

I have just released VGBA 5.0, a new version of my GameBoy Advance emulator, for Windows and Linux:

http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA -- homepage
http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/VGBA50-Windows-bin.zip -- Windows binary
http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/VGBA50-Ubuntu-x86-bin.tgz -- Ubuntu Linux binary

The new release changes sound rendering algorithms, fixing the sound in Super Puzzle Fighter 2, International Karate, and other games. Sound rendering is also faster now.

The Windows version adds options for selecting 64kB/128kB FlashROM type and makes sure that the automatic type selection overrides, but does not change user settings. If you would like to use your own settings, uncheck the "Guess Hardware" option.

ALL CHANGES:
* Now rendering remaining samples when direct sound channel disabled.
* Now playing all rendered samples at the end of a video frame.
* Fixed direct sound with rates close to 22kHz (Super Puzzle Fighter 2).
* Fixed melodic sound when wave sound is off (International Karate).
* Removed "Direct Sound Off" option from built-in menu and VGBA-Windows.
* Added "64kB FlashROM"/"128kB FlashROM" options to VGBA-Windows.
* Made sure "Guess Hardware" does not mess user-selected storage options.
* When guessing hardware, default to 6bit EEPROM, 64kB FlashROM.

Enjoy!

Hello, All!

The new VGBAnext 1.4, based on the recently released VGBA 5.0, is now available online:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...id=com.fms.emu

This version once again changes sound rendering algorithms, making sound rendering faster and fixing sound in Super Puzzle Fighter 2 in the process. You can also get free versions of VGBA 5.0 for Windows and Linux from the homepage:

http://fms.komkon.org/VGBA/

ALL CHANGES:
* This version is based on the just released VGBA 5.0 GBA emulator.
* Fixed direct sound with rates close to 22kHz (Super Puzzle Fighter 2).
* Now rendering remaining samples when sound DMA gets disabled.
* Now playing all rendered samples at the end of a video frame.
* Improved overall emulation performance.
* Made GBA backdrop image shorter.

Have fun!