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Under the microscope: Battle Arena Toshinden URA (Saturn)

Rings of Saturn • 72 implied HN points • 11 Mar 26
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. The game records button sequences in memory and matches them against stored patterns to flip bitflags that enable cheats, letting you play as bosses or hidden characters, enable easy secret moves, or enable URA-specific modes.
  2. New and partly undocumented codes let you control the title screen background and in-game videos with the D-pad and face buttons, and a broken A,A code can be fixed by a simple memory edit to make the "Press Start" text spin.
  3. Some codes can undo other cheat effects, similar tricks weren’t found on the PlayStation Toshinden releases, and there are likely more console-specific secrets still waiting to be discovered.

Under the microscope: MX 2002 featuring Ricky Carmichael (PlayStation 2)

Rings of Saturn • 72 implied HN points • 27 Feb 26
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. You can enter a controller-button sequence at the title screen that spells out OPEN IT ALL to unlock every track, multiplayer mode, and challenge clip.
  2. The game maps controller buttons to letters stored in memory so you literally type cheat words (A–Z and space); other valid cheats include CLEAR, TRACKS, MODES, BIKES, CHALLENGES, NO CHEATS, and FREESTYLE.
  3. Many online cheat listings are wrong, but using an emulator debugger and the game's debug symbols reveals the real cheat strings and shows that QUICKSEASON is a cheat that sets races to one lap.

Under the microscope: RoboCop (PlayStation 2, GameCube, Xbox)

Rings of Saturn • 72 implied HN points • 20 Feb 26
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. There are multiple real cheat codes for RoboCop (2003) — not just the single one often posted online — including infinite power, infinite ammo, invincibility, instant level completion, and a level-select option.
  2. Because the PS2 build included debug symbols, the cheat-handling function and its data structures could be found and inspected, which made it possible to map button bitmasks to actual button sequences and uncover the codes.
  3. Cheat availability differs by platform: the PS2 and GameCube share the same set, the Xbox is missing some, and a few codes are impossible to enter on certain consoles because their controllers lack the needed buttons.

Under the microscope: Hyper Duel & Blast Wind (Saturn)

Rings of Saturn • 72 implied HN points • 02 Feb 26
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. Both Saturn shooters, Hyper Duel and Blast Wind, hide a Freeplay mode that you can unlock from the Options/DIP Switch screen by entering a special button sequence. Hyper Duel: hold L+R and press Up, Right, Down, Left, A, Y, C, Start; Blast Wind: hold L+R+A+C+Y and press Up, Left, Down, Right, X, B, Z, Start.
  2. Flipping DIP switch number 5 turns on Freeplay in both games, giving unlimited credits or continues once the cheat sequence is accepted.
  3. Reverse-engineering with the Mednafen debugger and Ghidra shows the games check held-button bits (L+R and extra buttons) and increment a counter for the sequence; when the counter reaches the expected value the code enables the Freeplay option.

Under the microscope: Kinetica (PlayStation 2)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 13 Feb 26
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. The game encodes button sequences into an accumulator: L3 clears it and other buttons shift the value by 3 bits then OR in a small button code.
  2. Entering L3, Right, L1, Down, R1, Left on the title screen sets the accumulator to the unlock value and reveals all seasons, bonus characters, tracks, and the history movie.
  3. The same cheat-input system appears in other Sony games like God of War, and there’s a separate hidden sequence (Down, Start, Left, L1) that sets a different value likely meant to show biker coordinates but has no visible effect.
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Under the microscope: Aero Elite: Combat Academy (PlayStation 2)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 06 Feb 26
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. There’s a hidden secret-command system that’s triggered by disconnecting controller 1 and entering specific button combos on controller 2; the primary unlock code is hold L3+R3+Triangle and press X to enable cheat mode.
  2. Using the cheats unlocks every aircraft and emblem and activates an Alert Hangar menu option, and other codes enable features like a free camera (enter R2+L3+R3 then Triangle, use Square+Triangle to pause and L1/R1+D‑pad to move) and a replay cinematic bars effect.
  3. Reverse‑engineering with the game’s debug symbols revealed additional flag bits tied to fog, object scaling, and an unused bit that appear to be leftover developer features with no obvious in‑game effect.

Under the microscope: Road Rash 3D & Road Rash Jailbreak (PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 23 Jan 26
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. In Road Rash 3D, certain player names trigger strcmp checks that activate cheats — for example, IBaChtR gives $33,333 and unlocks all bikes, while MACVVASM and _33333 provide subsets of those effects.
  2. In Road Rash Jailbreak you open a hidden cheat textbox by highlighting Options → Multiplayer and holding L1+L2+R1+R2+Left then pressing X, and entering codes like KLFSDA, CMB, BDK, and FDMFG unlocks mode settings or grants four nitros.
  3. Looking at the PlayStation BIOS string-comparison calls and the game code lets you verify and discover real, working cheats and clarifies how to enter ones that online lists describe poorly.

Under the microscope: Steam-Heart's (Saturn)

Rings of Saturn • 72 implied HN points • 09 Dec 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. The Saturn port includes NSFW interstage scenes that are less explicit than the PC-98 original but can still be disturbing or offensive.
  2. Multiple undocumented cheats work from the title screen by holding button combos and pressing Start — e.g., A+B unlocks all stages and extras, X+Y+Z disables enemies, L+R shows hit boxes, A+C upgrades weapons — and an old invincibility code (Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A) is also known.
  3. Reverse engineering with Ghidra shows the game checks controller bitmasks to set bits in a cheat_flags variable and a stages_available value at specific memory addresses, and there’s an A+X code path that sets a flag which appears unused.

Under the microscope: ReBoot (PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. ReBoot was a groundbreaking TV show in 1994, famous for its 3D CGI animation, which felt futuristic at the time.
  2. The PlayStation game based on ReBoot includes several cheat codes, some of which were discovered by examining the game code more closely.
  3. New cheat codes like 'Rainbow' and 'Long Camera' can change the visuals of the game, making it more colorful or giving a top-down view.

Dreamcast cheat code roundup: Surf Rocket Racers, Carrier, Vermillion Desert

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 19 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. In some Dreamcast games, using the second controller can unlock hidden cheat codes. For example, playing 'Fighting Vipers' with controller 2 allows you to access secret features.
  2. In 'Surf Rocket Racers', you can unlock a rubber duck character by using a specific cheat code with controller 4. This makes it easier to enjoy the game without completing all modes.
  3. In 'Carrier', special inputs with controller 4 and other controllers allow access to various debug menus and sound tests. This can enhance your gaming experience by giving you more control.

Under the microscope: Criticom (Saturn)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. Criticom is generally considered a poorly rated fighting game, with reviews highlighting its lack of quality.
  2. Players can use cheat codes to unlock special features and abilities in the game, enhancing their gameplay experience.
  3. Specific passwords allow players to upgrade character ranks or even play as the final boss, adding depth to the game.

Under the microscope: Batman Begins (PlayStation 2, GameCube, Xbox)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. Batman Begins, the old video game, has a cheat code that lets you unlock everything. You can access all bonus content just by entering a special button sequence.
  2. The cheat codes for the game are different for each console, like PlayStation 2 and Xbox. This means you need to follow the right button combo for the version you're playing.
  3. Finding cheat codes can be fun and remind you that it's never too late to explore old games. Who knows what other secrets are hidden in games from the past?

Under the microscope: Beach Spikers (GameCube)

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. You can unlock all player customizations in Beach Spikers by entering the name 'VDF5PS'. This gives you access to special uniforms and character designs.
  2. The game has hidden player names that are like secret codes to unlock features. 'ARKATA', 'JUSTICE', and 'DAYTONA' are some, but 'VDF5PS' is the big one everyone missed.
  3. While the game's controls could be better, it still has a fun appeal for those patient enough to explore all its hidden features and cool outfits.

Under the microscope: Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX 2 (PlayStation 2, GameCube, Xbox)

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. There are new cheat codes for unlocking all riders in Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX 2. You can enter a specific sequence to get all riders at once instead of unlocking them one by one.
  2. You can also unlock a multiplayer mode for the Tiki Battle mini-game. This adds a fun twist to the game by allowing you to play against friends.
  3. The process of finding these cheat codes involved looking closely at the game code. This means there are still secrets to uncover in old games, and enthusiasts can contribute by exploring further.

Under the microscope: BattleSport (3DO, Saturn, PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Cheat Codes
  1. There are many cheat codes available for the game BattleSport on 3DO and Saturn. These codes can unlock new characters, tanks, and arenas.
  2. The PlayStation version of BattleSport uses a unique system where you enter special names to unlock cheats instead of using button combinations. This makes it tricky since you can't see the numbers when you enter them.
  3. Some codes seem to be different or completely new for the Saturn version compared to the 3DO version. This means players may discover new ways to enjoy the game depending on the system they are using.

Under the microscope: Strikers 1945 & Sengoku Blade (Saturn, PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. The games Strikers 1945 and Sengoku Blade have hidden cheat codes that let you access features like test modes and invincibility. You just need to enter the right button sequences at the start.
  2. For Strikers 1945 on Saturn, you can skip levels and even make your character invincible, giving you a fun way to enjoy the game without dying.
  3. Both games can be accessed in a special test mode by holding the Start button during boot-up, offering players a look behind the scenes of the game.

Under the microscope: Sakura Wars & Sakura Wars 2 (Dreamcast)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Cheat Codes
  1. Sakura Wars and Sakura Wars 2 for Dreamcast both have powerful debug modes that let players access hidden features and options. You can unlock these modes by entering specific cheat codes at certain points in the game.
  2. The debug menu in Sakura Wars allows players to jump to different scenes, play mini-games, and select characters from the game. This creates a fun way to explore parts of the game that are usually unseen.
  3. In Sakura Wars 2, there are two sets of cheat codes needed to access the debug menu, and it even allows sound and gameplay adjustments. This gives players an opportunity to mess around with different settings and find new ways to enjoy the game.

Under the microscope: Tokyo Highway Battle (Saturn)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Cheat Codes
  1. Tokyo Highway Battle was released on both Saturn and PlayStation, but the Saturn version had unique cheat codes. Players can gain points quickly using specific button combinations.
  2. The cheat for getting 9,999,999 points on the Saturn version is different from the PlayStation version. This points boost allows for more customization options in the game.
  3. Technical differences between the two versions affect how cheat codes work. The Saturn’s code is simpler and easier to find compared to the PlayStation's.

Under the microscope: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 (PlayStation, Dreamcast)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. There are new cheat codes in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 that have been undiscovered for 24 years. This was found by someone analyzing the game and its cheat code system.
  2. A special Python script was created to discover these cheat codes by attacking the game's hashing system. This method used a combination of known button sequences and permutations.
  3. One of the new cheat codes allows players to turn off shadows in the game. Another doubles the score, which can make gameplay more interesting!

Under the microscope: Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX & Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX (Dreamcast, PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 14 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. You can unlock all characters and bikes in 'Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX' with a specific button code. Just remember to follow the right sequence at the title screen.
  2. There are some cool pause menu codes for 'Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX' that let you do things like slow motion and show the balance meter. It's a fun way to play the game!
  3. In 'Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX,' there's a hidden cheat code to unlock all characters, including the 'Amish Boy.' You just have to enter the right code after unlocking another character.

Under the microscope: MDK (PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. MDK has hidden cheat codes that many players might not know about, adding more fun to the gameplay.
  2. Some codes need to be unlocked with other specific codes to work, which can change game mechanics and visuals significantly.
  3. Finding these codes involves programming and testing various button combinations, which can be a fun challenge for enthusiasts.

Under the microscope: Elevator Action Returns

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. In Elevator Action Returns, you play as a special agent trying to stop terrorists. You use elevators to move around levels, which makes for some fun gameplay.
  2. A new code was discovered for unlocking extra options in the game like game speed and player lives. This adds more variety to how you can play.
  3. There's a hidden debug mode that lets you control the game in unique ways, but it can cause some glitches. A patch has been created to fix these issues and enhance the experience.

Under the microscope: Off-World Interceptor (3DO, Saturn, PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Cheat Codes
  1. New cheat codes for the game _Off-World Interceptor_ were found, which had been hidden for 30 years. These codes work across multiple platforms like 3DO, Saturn, and PlayStation.
  2. The cheat codes can kickstart various features in the game, such as level selection, invincibility, and unlimited time. Players can enter these codes at the Options screen for added fun.
  3. The author used a tool called Ghidra to analyze the game’s memory and discover these codes. This shows that there’s still fun to be had from old games with a bit of technical know-how.