A-Hackers-Guide
Super Nintendo

Choosing a method

Choosing a method

There is no single "best" mod for the SNES; the right choice depends on what you want and how much you want to open the console. Here is how the common paths line up.

Your goalRecommended pathOpens the case?
Play most of the library cheaplyFXPak Pro flashcartNo
Special chips + MSU-1 audio/videoFXPak Pro flashcartNo
Run original imports from other regionsSuperCIC region-free modYes (solder)
One switch for region + 50/60HzSuper CIC++ switchlessYes (solder)
Sharper picture on an older boardRGB bypass ampYes (solder)

Order of operations

Most builders start with a flashcart because it needs no soldering and covers nearly the whole library, including special-chip titles. Add a region-free mod only if you collect physical imports, and consider RGB work only on older boards where the picture is soft.

Remember that a flashcart with a multi-region shell sidesteps lockout for the flashcart itself; you only need an internal region mod for original cartridges from other regions.