A digital file, often compressed, represents a read-only memory image of the software contained within a physical cartridge of a specific handheld game. This file type allows the execution of the game’s code on emulators designed to mimic the hardware of the original console. For example, the digitized representation of a popular monster-collecting adventure, originally released for the Nintendo DS, permits gameplay on computers and mobile devices.
The availability of these files provides a way to preserve gaming experiences and make them accessible to a wider audience, irrespective of the original hardware’s lifespan or availability. It also creates opportunities for modifications, fan translations, and enhanced features that would not be possible on the original platform. Historically, this accessibility has faced legal challenges related to copyright infringement, prompting ongoing discussions about the balance between preservation and intellectual property rights.