Download Toolkit:
https://github.com/DerekPascarella/VMU-Disc-Builder
These days, we have many options for transferring save files to or from our VMUs and computers. For instance, a cheap serial SD card reader is readily available on Amazon that works wonderfully with DreamShell. Additionally, the VM2 and upcoming VMU Pro from 8BitMods make this sort of task a breeze thanks to their use of microSD cards for storage. Hell, even the DreamConn+ (and upcoming DreamConn S) allow you to transfer saves directly to your computer via Bluetooth.
However, over the years I’ve seen a growing demand for an alternative way to get save files from the internet directly onto real Dreamcast VMU hardware. If your console can go online with something like the DreamPi, you could hypothetically host your own website, access it on your console, and then save files that way. However, now users can do this without any additional hardware or mods whatsoever.
So, what’s required? Firstly, grab my new VMU Disc Builder toolkit. Next, grab a collection of save files in VMI/VMS format, whether they be game saves, mini-games, or even standalone icons. Finally, run my application, and then either burn the resulting CDI or use it on your ODE of choice. That’s it!
All detailed usage instructions can be found by visiting the GitHub project page. It’s highly suggested that prospective users browse through this before getting started!
As a side note, I’d like to mention that this toolkit is really designed for those wishing to build a curated collection of save files, or those who want a quick and easy way to transfer even one or two save files now and then. For an exhaustive pre-built disc containing thousands of save files, mini-games, and standalone icons, I suggest folks take a look at El Bucanero’s classic VMU Backup CD. And yes, it’s bootable on real hardware!