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Genesis Release Guide

Converting MIDI files into a playable music Sega Genesis (also known as Mega Drive) cartridge involves several steps. This process includes preparing your MIDI files, converting them into a format compatible with the Genesis’s sound hardware, assembling a Genesis ROM, and finally flashing the ROM onto a physical cartridge. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

Step 1: Prepare Your MIDI File

1. Simplify the MIDI File

The Sega Genesis has specific audio capabilities:

Use a MIDI editor to tailor your MIDI file for the Genesis:

Recommended MIDI Editors:

Step 2: Install DefleMask Tracker

1. Download DefleMask

2. Install and Set Up DefleMask

Step 3: Import and Edit MIDI in DefleMask

1. Import MIDI File

DefleMask does not support direct MIDI import, so you’ll need to convert your MIDI file to a format that can be imported, or manually input the notes.

Alternative Method Using MIDI2Tracker:

2. Map Tracks to Genesis Channels

3. Edit the Song

4. Test the Music

Step 4: Export the Music Data

1. Export from DefleMask

Note: The VGM (Video Game Music) format is a logging format for sound data, suitable for the Genesis.

Step 5: Convert VGM to Sound Driver Format

The Genesis cannot directly play VGM files; you need to convert the VGM data into a format compatible with a sound driver that can be used in your Genesis program.

1. Use vgm2psg or vgm2epsg Tools

2. Alternatively, Use SGDK’s XGM Format

Step 6: Install SGDK (Sega Genesis Development Kit)

1. Download SGDK

2. Install SGDK

3. Install GCC for 68000 CPU

Step 7: Set Up Your SGDK Project

1. Create Project Directories

2. Place Music Files

Step 8: Write the Main Program

1. Create main.c in the src Directory

#include <genesis.h>

int main()
{
    // Initialize the VDP
    VDP_init();

    // Load the music
    XGM_setMusicTempo(60); // Set tempo if needed
    XGM_startPlay("res/your_song.xgm");

    while(1)
    {
        // Game loop
        SYS_doVBlankProcess();
    }

    return 0;
}

2. Create a resources.res File in the Project Root

XGM your_song "res/your_song.xgm"

Step 9: Configure the Makefile

SGDK provides a sample Makefile you can use.

1. Copy the Sample Makefile

2. Edit the Makefile

Step 10: Build the Genesis ROM

1. Open a Terminal or Command Prompt

2. Run the Make Command

make -f Makefile.gen

3. Troubleshooting

Step 11: Test the ROM in an Emulator

1. Choose an Emulator

2. Load and Test the ROM

Step 12: Flash the ROM onto a Genesis Cartridge

1. Obtain a Flash Cartridge

2. Prepare the ROM

3. Transfer the ROM

Step 13: Play the Cartridge on a Genesis Console

1. Insert the Cartridge

2. Load and Test the ROM

Additional Tips

Summary

By following these steps, you can successfully convert MIDI files into a playable music Sega Genesis cartridge:

  1. Prepare and simplify your MIDI file to match the Genesis’s audio capabilities.
  2. Install DefleMask Tracker and import/edit your music, creating Genesis-compatible instruments.
  3. Export your music as a VGM file and convert it to an XGM file compatible with SGDK.
  4. Install SGDK and set up your project, including the music resources.
  5. Write a simple program to play your music using SGDK’s functions.
  6. Configure the Makefile and build your ROM using SGDK’s tools.
  7. Test your ROM in an emulator to verify functionality.
  8. Flash the ROM onto a physical cartridge using hardware like the EverDrive MD.
  9. Play the cartridge on an actual Genesis console to enjoy your custom music.

This process allows you to experience custom music on your Sega Genesis console and provides valuable experience in retro console development.

Disclaimer: Modifying your Sega Genesis console and creating custom cartridges involves risks and may be subject to legal restrictions in some jurisdictions. Always ensure you are complying with local laws and do not engage in piracy or distribute copyrighted material.