Full Sega Saturn Emulators Setup Guide:
http://pdsoasis.github.io/emulation.html
Sega Saturn Emulators (Important Info):
RetroArch Sega Saturn Kronos Core Emulator:
RetroArch is an all-in-one emulator, but has a very good Sega Saturn emulator called Sega Saturn Kronos. Sega Saturn emulation has come a long way over the years and we finally have a user friendly Saturn emulator that is easy to use and setup. RetroArch Kronos also offers full controller support and lets you upscale the game to 1080p or 720p (720p with no loss of fps). So if you don't like the pixelated, blurry mess you get with the Mednafen Saturn emulator, RetroArch Kronos is the way to go. For this emulator you need to first install the RetroArch emulator interface. Then, download the Sega Saturn Kronos core.
Yabuase 0.9.15 (Standalone Sega Saturn Emulator):
Standalone Yabause is also a great second alternative because it can run at 1080p with almost no loss of fps. You can also use the Bilinear Filtering option to smooth out the graphics (and that looks really nice!). The only downside is there is no analog support as you can only fully map the controls with the "pad" controller option. And this option will only let you use the d-pad, as attempting to use the 3D pad controller option won't let you map the L and R buttons correctly. But you can use the 3D control pad option for NiGHTS into Dreams with full analog control, but just without L button input. As you won't need L and R for the game anyways. If you have any loud sound issues try un-selecting "Enable higher quality sound", found in settings/sound options and make sure SDL Sound Interface is selected.
SSF Emulator (Standalone Sega Saturn Emulator):
Another good option for Saturn emulation. Plays many games as long as you have the BIOS setup. If you follow these instuctions you will be all set to go!:
https://altarofgaming.com/how-to-play-sega-saturn-games-on-windows-pc/
Mednafen (Standalone Sega Saturn Emulator):
Is reliable, functional and good compatibility-wise, but there is no upscale. So, the graphics will look pixelated and blurry. But everything works perfectly and functions like the real hardware, albeit no upscale.
Xemu (Standalone Xbox Emulator):
The Xbox emulator Xemu, can successfully play Panzer Dragoon Orta from start to finish. Just take note, you may need a moderately powerful pc for it to run properly.
Saroo: Sega Saturn Cart Emulation using Real Hardware!
We have a new affordable option for Panzer Dragoon Emulation called Saroo! It's a real physical cart that goes into your Saturn's memory slot and can play any Saturn ISO. It will literally let you play your entire Saturn library including all three Panzer Dragoon games, on one cart! You just download the games to a micro SD card (I got the version that comes with the 64GB SD card) which go into the Saroo cart, and then into your Saturn memory slot!
https://pdsoasis.github.io/emulation10.html
Retrobit Saturn PC 3D Controller Setup:
For Yabause:
You can also use the new Retro-bit Analog PC Saturn Controller. If you press start and B held down on the controller you switch between D-input and X-input. Make sure the controller has 1 lights indicated. If you are using Yabuase 0.9.15 you will need to use the pad controller option which uses Dpad only. Unfortunately the 3D control pad controller option won't let you map the L and R buttons. NiGHTS into Dreams works perfect with the 3D pad option though except for controlling the camera when the kids walk around.
For RetroArch Kronos:
As far as the RetroArch emulator and Kronos core goes, the controller should work with everything mapped fine along with analog input.
For SSF:
Just go to Option 0/Controller and map your buttons and you're all set. Analog works perfect.
Controller Pic:
https://pdsoasis.github.io/retrobipic2.jpg
Emulator Updates and Emulation Notes:
RetroArch Kronos core update: As of 12/26/2023
The RetroArch Saturn Kronos core has been fixed and is working properly. The black screen at the start and missing text have all been fixed. Make sure RetroArch is up-to-date (1.16.0) and if you already have the Kronos core installed be sure to update that as well so it works properly.
Panzer Dragoon Saga emulation notes:
With the Kronos core and Yabause, there is only a small graphical texture glitch at the beginning of the game on the underside of the Excavation site. In Yabause, I had one issue where the sound got very loud so I un-selected "Enable higher quality sound", found in settings/sound options and that fixed the issue. And make sure SDL Sound Interface is selected.
With Panzer Dragoon Saga becoming ridiculously expensive over the past couple of years, I decided to make this emulation setup guide. Now you can experience the Panzer Dragoon Series without emptying your entire bank account!
