DOSBox Archives

AppWizard

March 1, 2025

8 reasons why PC gaming is better than console gaming

PC gaming offers a vast library of games, including mainstream titles, indie games, and classic re-releases. Major first-party titles are increasingly available on PC, diminishing the appeal of console exclusives. PCs excel in game preservation, allowing access to classic titles through emulators and tools like DOSBox. The PC gaming community benefits from mods that enhance older games with improved graphics and new content. PCs provide unmatched performance and customization options, allowing gamers to tailor their experience. Unlike consoles, PC gaming does not require subscription fees for online multiplayer. PCs can be upgraded incrementally, extending their lifespan and saving money. Emulation on PCs allows access to games from various consoles without original hardware. PC gamers enjoy extensive creative control over their gaming setups, including hardware and peripherals.

AppWizard

December 2, 2024

Blizzard’s pulling of Warcraft I & II tests GOG’s new Preservation Program

GOG has enhanced the networking code for Warcraft I and refined the DirectX wrapper for Warcraft II, improving compatibility with modern monitor resolutions. GOG's commitment to preserving classic games includes the Warcraft series and may extend to other titles facing diminishing publisher interest. However, GOG faces limitations in modifying certain games due to rights issues, which complicates ensuring compatibility with modern systems. Warcraft II: Remastered allows players to toggle between classic and remastered graphics, enhances support for widescreen monitors, and increases the number of selectable units. The 2020 release of Warcraft III Reforged received significant backlash, criticized for its execution and lack of polish, while the remastered versions of the first two Warcraft games feature numerous visual updates for the UI and improved gameplay experience.

Winsage

November 22, 2024

5 cool things to do with virtual machines on Windows 11

Windows 11 simplifies the setup of virtual machines (VMs) using Hyper-V or Oracle's VirtualBox, allowing users to quickly establish VMs for various purposes. Users can run legacy applications and games that struggle on modern systems by utilizing older operating systems like Windows XP or Windows 7, or using DOSBox for very old games. VMs enable users to operate multiple operating systems simultaneously, catering to different needs such as programming or graphic design. They can also help maintain privacy against workplace monitoring by isolating personal activities from employer-mandated tracking software. Additionally, VMs allow users to safely explore potentially harmful software for cybersecurity purposes, although caution is advised due to the risk of sophisticated malware escaping the VM. Backing up an entire operating system within a VM is straightforward, involving the management of files like virtual disk images and configuration files, but users should be aware of legal considerations regarding sharing or duplicating VMs.

AppWizard

November 13, 2024

GOG commits to ‘preserving’ 100 classic PC games, forever

Good Old Games (GOG.com) has launched the GOG Preservation Program to keep classic PC games playable despite the lack of ongoing developer support. The program features a curated selection of 100 iconic games, including Diablo, Resident Evil, Wing Commander III, Ultima VII, and Fallout, which are labeled as “Good Old Games” on GOG’s store page. This initiative addresses the issue of code incompatibility that can render older games unplayable on modern systems. GOG ensures these classic titles remain functional without introducing new features and offers DRM-free access with dedicated tech support. The company has been working on preservation efforts for several years, resolving issues with specific games and enhancing compatibility with modern operating systems.

Winsage

October 22, 2024

Cast your eyes upon this deeply cursed setup: Windows 95 on a hacked Nintendo 3DS

MetraByte, a YouTuber, is attempting to run Windows 95 on the Nintendo 3DS using a version of DOSBox tailored for the device. The setup process involves extensive command line input and faces numerous challenges, including limited memory, with only 16 MB allocated to the installation. The New Nintendo 3DS has 256 MB of RAM, but struggles to handle the operating system. MetraByte encounters technical hurdles when trying to allocate more memory, with the system crashing beyond 32 MB. The project highlights the limitations of the 3DS while showcasing the interest in retro technology.

Winsage

October 21, 2024

A TechTuber nostalgically runs Windows 95 on a Nintendo 3DS with 256MB of RAM and a stylus pen — but painfully slow boot times hashed his mellow

MetraByte has successfully run Windows 95 on the Nintendo 3DS using DOSBox, but faced significant challenges such as slow boot times and performance issues. Initial attempts to run applications like Paint were frustrating, leading him to abandon plans for music creation. Each installation attempt took around 30 minutes, with a final successful installation taking over two hours, often resulting in Blue Screen of Death errors and driver issues. The experiment illustrates the nostalgic appeal of older operating systems, despite the difficulties encountered in retro computing.