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Darksoft CPS1 | CPS1.5 Multigame Kit

Product information "Darksoft CPS1 | CPS1.5 Multigame Kit"

The Darksoft CPS1/CPS1.5 Multigame Kit allows supported CPS1 and CPS1.5 QSound games to run on compatible original Capcom CPS1 arcade hardware. The multigame PCB replaces the original CPS1 B-board while retaining a compatible original A-board and C-board.

CPS1 / CPS1.5 Compatibility & Requirements

Compatible Hardware: Original Capcom CPS1 A-board with populated sound section
Unsupported A-Board: Long A-board model 88617A-7B
Compatible C-Boards: 90630C-4, 90631C-5, and 92641C-1
C-Board Requirement: Original B-21-based C-board in working condition
Soldering: Required for RESET and QSound wire connections
Storage: Compatible microSD card required; not included
Game Selection: Included LCD selector with flash-memory loading

Important: Confirm the exact A-board and C-board before ordering. CPS1.5 A-boards that do not have the required sound section populated are not compatible in that condition.

What This Kit Adds

CPS1 & CPS1.5 Multigame Support Run supported CPS1 and CPS1.5 QSound game configurations on compatible original Capcom hardware.
Flash-Based Game Loading Selected games are written to flash memory and remain stored after power is removed until another title is selected and written.
LCD Game Selector Browse supported titles on the prepared microSD card and select the next game from the included LCD interface.
CPS1.5 QSound Support Compatible CPS1.5 QSound configurations are supported with the correct sound board, connections, and file structure.
Original Hardware Retained Keeps the compatible original Capcom A-board and C-board in service while replacing the original B-board function with the multigame hardware.

What's Included

  • Darksoft CPS1/CPS1.5 multigame PCB
  • Sound-board assembly
  • Filter board
  • JAMMA finger board
  • LCD game selector
  • 30 cm LCD ribbon cable
  • Two female DuPont jumper wires
  • Two PCB spacers
  • Replacement PAL chip

The shipping box contains two layers of components. Remove the main multigame PCB from the upper antistatic-foam layer to inspect the components stored underneath.

CPS1 A-Board Compatibility

Populated Sound Section Required A compatible original Capcom CPS1 A-board must have its sound section fully populated. Some CPS1.5 donor A-boards do not have the required sound hardware and are not compatible in that condition.
Long A-Board 88617A-7B Is Not Supported Do not use long A-board model 88617A-7B with this installation.
10 MHz & 12 MHz A-Boards Most compatible boards use either a 10 MHz or 12 MHz configuration. For the closest original timing, match the selected game configuration to the appropriate board where practical.

Compatible Original CPS1 C-Boards

Supported C-Board Models Compatible original C-boards are: 90630C-4, 90631C-5, and 92641C-1.
Battery Removal If a compatible C-board still has its original battery installed, remove the battery so the multigame kit can program the required keys.
Modified C-Boards Previous modification wires or unofficial alterations may need to be removed. Confirm that the original C-board works correctly before connecting it to the kit.

C-Board Switch Setting

Set the multigame PCB's C-board switch according to the installed original C-board:

  • ON: 90630C-4
  • ON: 92641C-1
  • ON: C-board without original CNI01 and CNI02 control connectors
  • OFF: 90631C-5 with two PAL chips

Installation Overview

1. Replace the A-Board PAL Remove the socketed PAL at PRG1 / 9K and install the replacement PAL supplied with the kit.
2. Install the C-Board Fit the compatible original C-board onto the multigame PCB before installing the multigame PCB onto the original A-board.
3. Install the Supplied Spacers Fit the two plastic spacers in the documented mounting locations. Do not use the smaller mounting position reserved for the optional spinner board.
4. Connect RESET & QSound Solder the two supplied DuPont wires from the multigame PCB's RESET and QSOUND headers to the documented A-board connection points.
5. Install the Multigame PCB Align all four connectors before applying pressure, then press the multigame PCB into place gently and evenly.
6. Connect the Filter Board & JAMMA Finger Install the JAMMA finger board in the filter board with its keyed edge facing outward, then connect the filter board as shown in the installation guide.
Critical Sound-Board Orientation

The CPS1.5 QSound or FPGA sound board can physically be installed backward. Installing it in the wrong orientation can damage both the sound board and the main multigame PCB.

Compare the sound-board orientation with the photographs and silkscreen markings in the installation guide before applying power.

microSD Card & Game Files

  • A compatible microSD card is required and is not included.
  • Game software is not supplied with the multigame kit.
  • Prepare supported game folders using the structure required by the installation guide.
  • CPS1 and CPS1.5 QSound configurations use different audio-file layouts.
  • Standard unprepared MAME sets may not use the required file structure.
  • Use only game data you are legally entitled to possess and operate.
  • Do not remove the microSD card or interrupt power while game data, firmware, or CPLD updates are being written.

LCD Game Selection & Flash Loading

Select a Game Connect the supplied ribbon cable between the multigame PCB and LCD selector, then browse the supported titles on the microSD card.
Loading Progress The LCD displays asterisks while flash memory is erased or programmed. Two status LEDs remain illuminated while programming is active.
Temporary Display Artifacts Temporary graphics artifacts can appear while the board is held in reset during programming. This is normal during the loading process.
LCD Contrast Adjust the LCD contrast using the trim control marked 202 on the main multigame PCB if needed.

CPS1 & CPS1.5 Audio Adjustment

  • Standard CPS1 volume is adjusted with the original volume control on the A-board.
  • The multigame PCB provides an opening near the Z80 for access to the original control.
  • CPS1.5 QSound volume over JAMMA is adjusted with the dedicated potentiometer on the multigame PCB.
  • If using the FPGA sound-board version, follow the qsound.bin programming instructions before initial operation.
Important Before Installation
  • Confirm the exact A-board and C-board models before ordering.
  • Do not use long A-board model 88617A-7B.
  • Do not use an A-board without its CPS1 sound section populated.
  • Remove the battery from a compatible C-board when one remains installed.
  • Do not force any PCB or connector into place.
  • Install the sound board only in the documented orientation.
  • RESET and QSound wiring requires precise soldering.
  • Use an experienced arcade technician if you are not comfortable with this work.
  • Disconnect power and discharge static before handling the hardware.

Shipping Information

Please note: This product ships with insurance and signature confirmation. The current processing time is displayed near the Add to Cart button.

United States: Flat-rate shipping is $35.99 through USPS or UPS based on package size, weight, and destination.

Two Darksoft Multigame Kits can ship together for the same flat-rate U.S. shipping price.

International: Darksoft orders ship by expedited UPS international service.

Customs duties, taxes, brokerage charges, and import fees are the customer's responsibility. A telephone number is required for international shipments, and HighScoreSaves cannot under-declare shipment values. Suggested tariff code: 95049080.

Darksoft CPS1 Technical Support

Technical information and community assistance are available through the Arcade Projects Capcom CPS1 forum.

ArcadeProjects.com — Capcom CPS1 Support

Review the installation guide and contact HighScoreSaves or the support community before concluding that the multigame kit or another component is defective.

Darksoft CPS1 / CPS1.5 FAQ

Which CPS1 A-boards are compatible?

Most original short CPS1 A-boards with the required sound section populated are supported. Long A-board model 88617A-7B and boards without the required sound section are not compatible.

Which original C-boards are supported?

Supported original C-board models are 90630C-4, 90631C-5, and 92641C-1. A remaining battery must be removed before use.

Does the kit support CPS1.5 QSound games?

Yes. Compatible CPS1.5 QSound titles can be used with the correct sound board, required connections, and supported game-file structure.

Does installation require soldering?

Yes. The supplied RESET and QSound wires must be soldered to the documented points on the original CPS1 A-board.

Is a microSD card included?

No. A compatible microSD card must be supplied separately and prepared with the required folders and files.

Does the selected game remain after power is removed?

Yes. The selected game remains in flash memory until a different title is chosen and written.

How is audio volume adjusted?

Standard CPS1 volume is adjusted with the original A-board control. CPS1.5 QSound output over JAMMA uses the dedicated potentiometer on the multigame PCB.

Where can I review CPS1 compatibility information?

Visit the Darksoft CPS1 Multigame Kits compatibility category for hardware identification, compatibility, installation, and accessory information.

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2 of 2 reviews

Average rating of 5 out of 5 stars


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2 reviews

June 29, 2026 9:00 PM

Review with rating of 5 out of 5 stars

Outstanding multigame solution for CPS-1 hardware

I have several original CPS-1 boards, and the Darksoft CPS-1 Multigame Kit has completely changed how I use them. The installation process was straightforward, the documentation was clear, and everything worked exactly as expected. Being able to switch between so many classic Capcom games without swapping boards is incredibly convenient.
The hardware quality is excellent, game compatibility has been solid, and the menu is easy to navigate. It's obvious this kit was designed with enthusiasts and collectors in mind. My order arrived quickly, was packaged securely, and HighScoreSaves answered all of my questions before I purchased.
If you're looking for a reliable way to enjoy your original CPS-1 hardware while reducing wear from constantly changing boards, this is a fantastic investment. I only wish I had bought it sooner

January 10, 2026 2:26 AM

Review with rating of 5 out of 5 stars

J Kramer

Bought a few of the Darksoft kits at the start of the year. Amazingly fast tracking provided and delivery was great. Kits were sent with signature required. Got them all installed and work great! Preordered the MVS coming out soon too! I'll be back for more (and tell all of my friends where to buy them at)

Thank you!