Mister Pc98 Core Verified ^new^ (2026 Release)

Early testing indicates that the Z386 core functions similarly to a smaller ao486 core (the standard MS-DOS core on MiSTer), offering 80386-level performance.

: It supports multiple virtual floppy drives and hard disk images simultaneously.

Fire up your MiSTer, run the update script, and load up The Scheme . You won’t believe your ears.

Run the update_all.sh script from the console. As of April 2025, the PC98 core is included in the official distribution. mister pc98 core verified

Software emulators sometimes struggle with the complex FM and ADPCM sound chip combinations, causing crackling or timing issues. The FPGA core handles this perfectly.

Once the core is booted, press to open the MiSTer OSD (On-Screen Display) menu. Here you can:

For those on the fence about buying a DE10-Nano, the PC98 core alone justifies the investment. You cannot get this accuracy on a Raspberry Pi. You cannot get this sound on a Windows emulator. The only alternative is buying a real PC-9821 for $800 plus shipping from Japan—and then dealing with dying capacitors and CRT geometry issues. Early testing indicates that the Z386 core functions

The is an ongoing FPGA implementation of the legendary NEC PC-9801 series, primarily known for its extensive library of Japanese visual novels and early doujin titles. While functional, it is officially considered a work-in-progress and is not currently listed as a "verified" or 100% accurate core compared to more mature projects like the NES or SNES. Current Core Status and Development

The verification pass included heavy testing on classics like:

While the Mister PC98 Core Verified is an impressive piece of engineering, there are a few areas for improvement: You won’t believe your ears

Proper emulation of the YM2608 (OPNA) sound chip, crucial for the PC-98 sound experience.

✅ – the core is considered feature-complete and stable for daily use. ✅ Cycle-accurate emulation of iconic PC-9800 series hardware (8086 → 486 class). ✅ Improved disk swapping , FDD timing, and graphics modes (EGC, GRCG, 640×400, 16 colors, and analog RGB output). ✅ Native MIDI & sound board support (YM2608, optional Sound Board II). ✅ Save states are now reliable across most popular titles.

A minor nitpick, but I miss the authentic seek/click sounds of twin 5.25" drives. Adds to nostalgia.