resources
ROM hacking relies on a specialized set of utilities and community resources that make it possible to modify, experiment with, and expand classic games. Below, you’ll find the tools I use for ROM editing, graphics, animations, and music, as well as useful websites for AKI-related archives and references. Each resource is listed with a brief description and links for easy access.
rom hacking utilities
VPW Studio
An AKI-specific program developed by freem that enables direct modification of ROM data, including graphics, animations, and 3D models.
AKI Animation Editor
Developed by RetroRandyPrice, this tool allows detailed creation, modification, and sequencing of character animations, enabling precise control over movement, timing, and in-game behavior.
AKI Model Blender Plugin
A specialized Blender plugin developed by DotGrix that facilitates the import, export, and modification of AKI 3D models, enabling precise adjustments and creative experimentation.
(Most compatible for earlier releases of Blender. I use version 3.0)
TileMolester
Tool for viewing and editing graphical tiles within ROMs, allowing precise manipulation of textures, sprites, and other visual assets. Primarily used in AKI wrestling games to edit fonts.
J’s Palette Editor
Utility for editing in-game color palettes, enabling precise adjustments to character and environment visuals for stylistic consistency. Primarily used for seamlessly editing 256-color palettes.
Luna Project64
A Nintendo 64 emulator used to run and test ROM hacks in a controlled environment, providing tools for debugging, verifying gameplay mechanics, and observing the effects of modifications in real time.
N64 Tools Collection
A suite of utilities designed for inspecting, modifying, and analyzing Nintendo 64 ROMs, streamlining various aspects of development and testing. Primarily used are the Midi and Soundbank Tools.
Hex Editor Neo
A versatile hex editor that allows precise examination, modification, and debugging of raw ROM data, providing granular control over bytes and memory structures to support advanced ROM hacking and data manipulation.
(Any hex editor will work the same, free or commercial, I just prefer this one)
JASC Paint Shop Pro 7
A graphics editing application used to create, modify, and optimize textures, sprites, and visual assets for ROM hacks, combining precision tools with flexible image manipulation capabilities.
(Any image editing software will work such as Photoshop or GIMP, but I prefer this specific program)
Anvil Music Editor
A MIDI editor that allows creation, modification, and integration of custom music tracks into ROM hacks, providing precise control over sequencing, instrumentation, and playback.
websites & communities
AKI.guide
A website offering ROM hacking tutorials and an archive of publicly released ROM hacks, complete with a built-in patcher.
AKI Outsiders – Discord
A community focused on support and discussion of work-in-progress ROM hacks, providing guidance, feedback, and collaboration opportunities for modders and enthusiasts.
N64 Patched Wrestling Roms
A curated collection of pre-patched, ready-to-play ROMs hosted on Archive.org for convenient access and preservation.
VPW2 Dojo
A specialized forum dedicated to Virtual Pro Wrestling 2, focused on coding, ROM modification, and sharing techniques, tools, and insights among enthusiasts and developers.
Generation Hex
An archive of memory addresses and corresponding values for AKI wrestling games, providing a technical reference for ROM modders and developers seeking to understand or modify game behavior.
YouTube Channels
Sean O Connor
This channel features wrestling match simulations from a variety of mod projects, highlighting AKI-inspired creations, custom textures, and reimagined versions of classic wrestling games.
Bean O Mac
This channel highlights the creative legacy of AKI’s titles, showcasing ROM hacks, cross-game comparisons, and community-driven projects.
Fun With CAWs
Showcasing custom wrestlers, edits, and creative experiments from the N64 AKI wrestling games, highlighting fan-made creations and playful reimaginings of classic matches.