PocketStation emulators

The Sony PocketStation

PocketStation is a memory card peripheral made by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation that was released in Japan in 1999. Software for the PocketStation was typically distributed as PlayStation CD-ROM extras, enhancing the games with added features. Stand-alone software could also be downloaded through the PlayStation console. The software is then transferred to the PocketStation for use. A built-in infrared data interface allows direct transfer of data such as game saves between PocketStation units, as well as multiplayer gaming. 60 games in total were compatible with the PocketStation.

Emulators

Name	Operating System(s)	Latest Version	Accuracy	Active	Recommended
MAME	Multi-platform	0.196	?	✓	✓
PK201	Windows, Android	16/01/20 Build	?	✓	✓
PKEmu	Windows	1.1 Private Beta	?	✗	✗

Emulation issues

Missing retail kernel dumps

According to nocash there are two known versions of the PocketStation kernel:

Version	CRC32	Recommended
061	5FB47DD8	✗
110	09881F33	✓

061

Distributed with PKEmu as kernel.bin and is also what MAME uses. It's thought to be from prototype hardware, which would explain its incompatibility with certain games regardless of the emulator used.

110

Also called "J110", this is the BIOS used for all retail PocketStations and should provide compatibility for all software on any emulator. DrHell recommends dumping it yourself using the PocketStation BIOS Tool by Orion_. Unfortunately, no kernel dump of this version has surfaced online.