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Darksoft Taito F3 Multigame Kit

Product information "Darksoft Taito F3 Multigame Kit"

The Darksoft Taito F3 Multigame Kit allows supported game titles to run on a compatible original Taito F3 arcade motherboard. Games are selected from a prepared microSD card with the included LCD selector and written to flash memory on the multigame board.

Taito F3 Compatibility & Requirements

Compatible Hardware: Working original Taito F3 arcade motherboard
Test Setup: Working arcade cabinet or compatible supergun
Motherboard Preparation: Four plastic region-locking tabs must be carefully removed
Storage: Reliable microSD card required; not included
Game Selection: Included LCD selector
Optional Soldering: SWD7-to-IC35 auto-reset connection

Important: Do not adjust the Taito F3 motherboard potentiometer labeled VR1. It regulates voltage and is not a volume control.

What This Kit Adds

Taito F3 Multigame Support Run supported game titles on compatible original Taito F3 arcade hardware.
LCD Game Selection Browse supported game folders on the prepared microSD card and select the next title.
Flash-Based Loading The selected game is written to flash memory and remains stored after power is removed.
Optional Auto-Reset A documented SWD7-to-IC35 connection can reset the F3 motherboard automatically after loading a different game.
Original F3 Hardware Retained The kit installs directly onto the compatible original Taito F3 motherboard.

What's Included

The kit includes the Darksoft Taito F3 multigame PCB, LCD game selector, selector connection hardware, and the components supplied for the documented installation. Review the current product photos and installation guide for exact component identification.

Important VR1 Warning

Do not adjust VR1 on the original Taito F3 motherboard. Although it resembles a volume control, VR1 regulates voltage. Adjusting it can damage both the motherboard and the Darksoft multigame board.

Preparing the Taito F3 Motherboard

1. Remove the Plastic Region Locks The original motherboard has plastic region-locking tabs on all four cartridge connectors. These must be carefully removed before the multigame PCB can be installed.
2. Protect the Original Connectors Remove only the plastic obstruction. Avoid cutting into or damaging the cartridge connectors or motherboard.
3. Use an Experienced Technician When Needed Have a qualified arcade technician prepare the motherboard if you are not comfortable with this board-level work.

Installing the Darksoft Taito F3 Board

1. Disconnect Power Remove power from the original Taito F3 hardware before installation.
2. Discharge Static Use proper static precautions before handling the original motherboard or multigame board.
3. Handle the PCB by Its Edges Avoid pressing, pulling, or flexing the large multigame PCB from the center.
4. Align All Four Connectors Position the board directly above all four cartridge connectors and verify alignment before applying pressure.
5. Seat the Board Evenly Press gently and evenly until all four connectors are fully seated. Never force one connector while the others are misaligned.

Preparing the microSD Card

Use a Reliable Card A good-quality, properly prepared microSD card is required and is not included. Low-quality cards and incorrect file structures can cause loading problems.
Prepare Each Game Folder Each supported game uses its required folder structure and must include a file named NAME. The text in that file is displayed on the LCD selector.
Do Not Remove During Writing Insert the prepared card before selecting a game and do not remove it while game data or firmware is being written.

Note for Mac Users

macOS can create hidden files and directories beginning with ._ on removable media. These files can interfere with loading.

The installation guide recommends cleaning the prepared card with:

dot_clean /Volumes/SDCardName

Confirm the correct volume name before running the command.

LCD Game Selection & Flash Loading

Browse & Select Use the left and right buttons on the LCD selector to browse titles and press OK to load the displayed game.
Loading Progress The LCD displays progress while the selected game is written to flash. Do not interrupt power during this process.
NOW PLAYING When programming is complete, the LCD displays NOW PLAYING. The game remains stored until another title is selected and written.
LCD Contrast Use the trim control near the microSD-card slot when the LCD appears too light or too dark.

Optional Auto-Reset Wire

An optional auto-reset connection allows the Taito F3 system to reset automatically after a different game is loaded and can help reduce display flicker during the change.

  • One end connects to SWD7 on the Darksoft multigame PCB.
  • The other end connects to IC35 on the original Taito F3 motherboard.
  • The connection requires soldering.
Important Before Use
  • Do not adjust VR1.
  • Do not force the board onto misaligned connectors.
  • Do not remove the microSD card or interrupt power during writing.
  • Do not flex the multigame PCB or press against its center.
  • Review the installation guide before removing region locks or adding the reset wire.
  • Use only game software that you are legally entitled to possess and operate.

Shipping Information

Please note: This product ships with insurance and signature confirmation. Orders normally ship within 1–3 business days.

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 Taito F3 Technical Support

Technical information and community assistance are available through the Arcade Projects Taito F3 forum.

ArcadeProjects.com — Taito F3 Support

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

Darksoft Taito F3 FAQ

What original hardware is required?

A working original Taito F3 motherboard and working arcade cabinet or compatible supergun are required.

Does the motherboard require preparation?

Yes. The plastic region-lock tabs on all four cartridge connectors must be carefully removed.

Should I adjust VR1?

No. VR1 regulates voltage and is not a volume control.

How do I select a game?

Browse with the LCD selector's left and right buttons and press OK to load the selected title.

Does the selected game remain after power is removed?

Yes. It remains stored in flash until another title is selected and written.

Is a microSD card included?

No. A good-quality card must be supplied separately and prepared with the required folders and NAME files.

What does the optional auto-reset wire do?

It lets the system reset automatically after another game is loaded. It connects SWD7 to IC35 and requires soldering.

Where can I review Taito F3 compatibility information?

Visit the Darksoft Taito F3 Multigame Kits compatibility category for motherboard compatibility, installation, and accessory information.

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1 review

January 10, 2026 2:28 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!