- What is a BPS file?
- A BPS file is a patch containing a certain amount of changes made to an original ROM, ranging from bugfixes to translations to full hacks. By patching this file to an unmodified ROM image of SMW, the changes will be applied to the ROM. If the patch contains a hack, for example, then the ROM has now changed from the original SMW to the hack in question.
- I have an IPS file, not a BPS file. What's that?
- IPS files are the predecessor to BPS files. These can still be patched using Floating IPS as below.
- Why use patches instead of ROMs?
- Because giving away commercial ROM files is illegal. The patch contains only the differences between the full hack and the original ROM. This way, hacks can be given away legally.
- How do I use a patch?
- Use Floating IPS to apply a BPS patch to a clean ROM of the game that it is a hack of. Here is a tutorial on how to apply and play BPS patches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't worry, we all need to start somewhere—if you're a beginner and still need to find your way around, chances are the F.A.Q. will answer a lot of the questions you may have. Before asking in the forums, it's wise to check this page first!
If you have suggestions for the F.A.Q., feel free to contact a staff member.
BPS Files
- Main
SMW Hacking
- Getting Started
- Level Editing
- Level Entrances and Exits
- Map16
- Overworld Editing
- Title Screen/Credits
- Graphics
- Music
- Patches
- Sprites
- Blocks
- UberASM
- Backups and Transferring Data
- Errors
- Technical Fixes and Helpful Tips
YI Hacking
- Getting Started
- Level Entrances and Exits
- Graphics
- Text Editing
- Sprite/Item Memory
- Sprite Issues
- ROM/RAM Maps
- Errors and Technical Fixes
- Other Resources
General ROM Hacking
- ASM
- Emulators and ROMs
- Hex
- BPS Files
SMW Central
- Forums
- Discord
- Layouts and Profiles
- Submissions
- Usernames
- Ban Appeals
- Social Media
- Miscellaneous
- Glossary!