Karate Champ vs Free Play and High Score Save Kits
Download Karate Champ vs Install Guide (PDF)
Upgrade Your Karate Champ vs Arcade Experience
Bring modern convenience to your original Karate Champ vs arcade hardware with our collection of Karate Champ vs Free Play and High Score Save Kits. These plug-and-play upgrades add reliable high score saving, Free Play functionality, and easy on-screen configuration — all while preserving the classic head-to-head fighting gameplay.
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Karate Champ Player vs Player Free Play and High Score Save Kit
Customize Your Karate Champ Player vs Player Free Play and High Score Save Kit Build your kit exactly how you want it. Choose a Wi-Fi Enabled Kit or a Standard Save Kit. You can also add a processor and/or a 40-pin socket — optional but recommended for easy installation. Learn More About This Kit Click a button to view details, tips, or the installation guide. Features Easy install — No soldering, board modifications, or special wiring. Plug in and go! Save your scores forever — Uses reliable serial EEPROM (not failure-prone NVRAM or batteries). High Score Save — Saves all scores shown on screen. Initial entry — Enter and save your initials. Copyright options — Switch between manufacturer logo or HighScoreSaves logo on attract screen. Freeplay — No more coins or opening the coin door. Coin Up — Still supports coins if desired. Attract Mode — Minimizes screen burn; no static screens. Menu-driven DIP settings — Change DIP switches without opening your game. ROM Saver — Optionally remove original program ROMs to save power. Cabinet support — Works in Upright or Cocktail cabinets. Additional Features Backup & Restore — Back up high scores and restore later. Separate score tables — Different high score saving for selected lives (2, 3, or 4). Stealth Mode — Access menu by pressing Player 1 while powering on. Important Ensure your Z80 is socketed. If not, install a 40-pin socket for the kit to work. ROM saver locations — Program ROMs that may be removed: D6, D7, D8, D10, D11, D13. Read the Karate Champ Free Play and High Score Save Kit Installation Guide / Manual (PDF) before setup. Version Selection (DIP1) Set DIP1 = ON for Version 1. Set DIP1 = OFF for Version 2. Just the FAQ's Does this kit require soldering? No soldering is required if your Z80 is socketed. Which scores are saved? All scores shown on-screen are saved permanently. Will Free Play disable coin operation? No — Freeplay and Coin Up can both be used. What does ROM Saver do? Allows removing ROMs D6, D7, D8, D10, D11, D13 to reduce heat and power usage. Where is the installation guide? Download the Karate Champ Free Play & High Score Save Kit Installation Guide (PDF) Can I enter initials? Yes — initials are fully supported. Resources Karate Champ Free Play and High Score Save Kit — Installation Guide (PDF) HighScoreSaves YouTube Channel — Installation Tips HighScoreSaves Facebook Page HighScoreSaves eBay Store
Details and Benefits
The Karate Champ vs Free Play and High Score Save Kit is designed for original arcade hardware to remedy common issues like lost high scores, unreliable resets, and limited configuration options. This upgrade brings modern stability and convenience while preserving the competitive head-to-head fighting experience.
What This Kit Adds
- Free Play support — Enable coin-free operation while still supporting traditional coin play
- Reliable high score saving — Permanent score storage using non-volatile memory
- On-screen control menu — Adjust game options without opening the cabinet
- Monitor-friendly attract behavior — Helps reduce static screen burn-in
- Cabinet compatibility — Works with Upright arcade cabinets
Advanced Features
- High score backup and restore — Save and reload score data as needed
- Separate score tables — Independent tables based on configuration settings
- Optional Wi-Fi support — Upload and sync high scores online
Important Installation Notes
This kit requires a compatible socketed CPU. Always review the installation guide prior to installation to ensure correct setup and reliable operation.
Optional Wi-Fi enabled versions allow scores to be uploaded online and synced to your personal player page in addition to local high score saving on the PCB.