Project Status
- PC Windows: version 1.3.2.4 released download
- PC Linux OS: In plans
- Android OS: alpha version 0.3.1 information here
- Development status: There are plans to emulate Audio CD, Video CD and Photo CD, also plans to release the project for android and improved compatibility at all.
4DO - 3DO Emulator History
Across the goal line
4DO Emulator is no longer titled as “beta”. 3DO emulation is in a good state, and the primary features of the emulator have been stable for quite a while. It’s been a quick revival since the release of the FreeDO source code, and 4DO now provides 3DO fans with a clean, functional emulator.
4DO inherited many great features from FreeDO: high-definition rendering, clock speed adjustments, and impressive emulation accuracy! The FreeDO user interface was not open-sourced, but the resulting rewrite for 4DO was an overall benefit. The development of 4DO has introduced several unique features as well:
- Intuitive controller setup, native joystick support, and support for up to 6 players
- Game identification system
- Easy-to-use quick save/load system
- Game compatibility fixes (mainly through the efforts of Viktor!)
- Support for 6 languages
A Brief Overview of 4DO's Journey
Not many might be aware that the first idea about starting 4DO dates back to 2007. The motivation behind its creation was the absence of an advanced, up-to-date, 100% game compatible open-source 3DO emulator. The primary goal of this project has always been to offer a comprehensive, open-source emulator for 3DO enthusiasts.
Initially, my approach was focused on high-level emulation (HLE). The progress was commendable, with the CPU emulation solidified to a point where it could operate numerous non-Opera binary files, including the well-recognized sonic example. Evidence of this achievement can still be found in screenshots on the SourceForge platform for those with a keen interest in emulation history. Despite these advancements, the HLE strategy became increasingly more challenging to pursue with additional support. After countless hours analyzing disassembly, I halted the project in early 2010.
Side Note: If you are interested in this area, the Russian "Phoenix" project is venturing into HLE emulation with noteworthy outcomes. It's currently in a closed beta phase. However, be cautious, as there are counterfeit versions of this emulator circulating.
A significant turning point occurred in November 2010 when FreeDO made the code for its core emulation available to the public. Upon discovering this in July 2011, I undertook the task of revamping the user interface and rejuvenating 4DO using the FreeDO core. This transition marked the evolution of 4DO from a high-level to a low-level emulator. Since that pivotal moment, 4DO has steadily progressed, unveiling features many have come to appreciate.
In a parallel development, following the release of the FreeDO source code, Viktor embarked on the 3DOPlay project, sharing a similar vision of enhancing 3DO emulation. Our paths crossed a month ago, and since then, Viktor's invaluable contributions have significantly enhanced game compatibility within the emulator.
Envisioning 4DO's Path Forward
Regarding the prospective features or modifications for 4DO, I don't hold rigid views. There are, however, several enhancements I'd like to see integrated, such as support for 3DO light guns or 3DO mice, the ability to take in-game screenshots, and the inclusion of visual representations for save slots akin to what's seen in NESticle.
Now that 4DO has been launched, I plan to reduce my active participation for an undefined duration. I take immense pride in having contributed to the realm of 3DO emulation, and I genuinely believe that 4DO emulator has achieved its fundamental mission: to offer a robust, open-source emulator. While I don't plan to cease the development of 4DO entirely, my focus will primarily be on addressing any significant technical issues and ensuring timely updates. I remain hopeful that Viktor will continue his collaborative efforts. As an avid 3DO gaming enthusiast, I won't be surprised if I'm occasionally inspired to introduce new features.
I'd like to emphasize that anyone keen on making code contributions to 4DO is wholeheartedly welcome. Should you reach out on the forums, I assure you of my assistance to help you embark on this journey.
For those not inclined towards development but still eager to contribute, your inputs and updates remain invaluable to the project Compatibility List.
Thank You For Your Help!
3DO emulation would be in poor shape today if it weren’t for the feedback and interest from the sparse, world-wide community of 3DO fans. I’d like to thank everyone who helped identify problems, iron out issues, or just drop by for moral support!
I’d like to also thank the following contributors:
- BryWI : for feedback, community support, and lots of testing!
- Enio Marconcini : for Portuguese translations
- Benjamin Siskoo : for French translations
- “money” : for Chinese translations
- Antonio “Bloodbat” Ramirez : for Spanish translations
- Sedabi : for Russian translation improvements
Long live 3DO!
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Development of 4DO® from its inception in 2007. Evolution from HLE to low-level and enhanced game compatibility. Planed 3DO light gun & mouse support..