is creating a verified digital copy (ROM image) of a physical cartridge, ensuring the dump matches the original hardware bit-for-bit and includes accurate metadata (title, region, serials, checksums, mapper/chip info, and optionally box/manual scans).
The Ultimate Guide to Redump SNES: Preserving Super Nintendo History Digitally
Using a Sanni Cart Reader ($100-$150) or Retrode 2, you can dump your personal SNES collection and verify them against Redump’s DAT files using tools like or RomVault . This is the purest legal method. redump snes
The No-Intro project earned its name by removing "intros" (custom splash screens added by early hacking groups) to restore games to their original, retail state. For an SNES collector, this offers several benefits:
If you want to expand your digital library further, I can provide information on , explain the difference between SNES revision chips (like the Super FX) , or help you set up a ROM manager to clean up your existing files . Which topic Share public link is creating a verified digital copy (ROM image)
| Feature | Redump SNES | No-Intro SNES | |--------|-------------|----------------| | | Optical + Carts (all media) | Primarily cartridges | | Dumping method | Strict, multi-source verification | Strict, multi-source verification | | Header handling | Removes all copier headers | Removes all copier headers | | ROM format | Usually .sfc (headerless) | Usually .sfc (headerless) | | Preservation goal | Byte-perfect replica | Byte-perfect replica | | Parent/clone handling | Includes all regional variants & revisions | Includes all regional variants & revisions |
: Avoid old sets labeled "GoodSNES". While revolutionary in the early 2000s, these sets are filled with duplicates, bad dumps, and hacks. Stick to No-Intro for clean lists. The No-Intro project earned its name by removing
Older ROM dumps, created in the 1990s using early, flawed methods, may contain subtle corruption that was not recognized at the time.
: "Bad dumps" occur if the cartridge pins are dirty or the reader is faulty. A verified dump ensures that the data is 100% identical to the original retail mask ROM. Preservation Impact
In practice, for SNES games, . Both produce verified, high-quality dumps. The main difference is historical: Redump started with CDs; No-Intro started with carts. Today, many preservationists check both databases. However, some emulator developers slightly prefer Redump’s naming conventions and their handling of obscure copier formats. For 99% of users, either set is excellent — but Redump SNES is particularly favored by those who also collect disc-based ROM sets and want a unified standard.