FPGA Core developer srg320 has rolled out a massive update to the Sega Saturn core, bringing fixes and refinements across graphics, sound, and system timing. This update significantly boosts accuracy and compatibility, tightening the Saturn experience closer to original hardware performance.
Graphics improvements are extensive. Sprite and display issues were resolved in ST-V Taisen Tanto-R Sashissu, Saturn Bomberman Fight!!, Battle Arena Toshinden URA, Worldwide Soccer ’98, Vatlva, Gokujou Parodius Da!, and Pro Yakyuu Greatest Nine ’98 – Summer Action.
Sound has been fine-tuned as well, with NHL All Star Hockey 98 now playing correctly following a fix to the SCSP audio system.
System-level fixes are equally impressive. Updates to the SCU, SMPC, and SH7604 modules improved performance, timing, and stability in games like Crusader, Shinobi Legions, Hi-Octane (Japan), Batman Forever, and NBA Action 98.
Disc-related bugs were also squashed, restoring proper behaviour in Suchie-Pie Doki Doki Nightmare and the Flash Sega Saturn Vol. 14: Monster Slider demo.
Finally, the ST-V (Sega Titan Video) platform received new cart bit mapping for DaeJeon! SanJeon SuJeon and an added BIOS selection menu, which is a handy touch.
Overall, srg320’s latest work stands out as one of the most thorough Saturn core updates yet, refining nearly every sub-system and delivering a smoother, more authentic 32-bit experience.
While srg320 recently stated that the core is still far from being 100% accurate, honestly, most people playing this on the MiSTer won’t be able to tell the difference, myself included (I love this core).
If you haven’t already, run the ‘Update All’ script and enjoy both the SEGA Saturn and the ST-V cores!
You can support srg320’s work via their Patreon.