Modchip

A Modchip is a hardware extension that gives video game consoles additional features. The word “Modchip” derives from the English term “modding”, meaning modifying or modifying/extending a particular fact/object. “Mod” or “Modversion” can also mean an extension to a single game that a fan has made in his own work.

The installation of a modchip brings two advantages: The device is able to play copied and imported software titles. Depending on the video game console and the structure of the chip, special functions can be performed that the manufacturer did not provide at all for use with the system. This includes playing additional (disc) formats. In addition, the modchip removes certain restrictions. A typical case study concerns the subsequent increase of the maximum storage capacity of built-in hard drives.

As systems special cartridges used the installation of modchips was not yet particularly widespread. Players at the time simply did not have the technical possibilities to copy game modules privately. In order to play imported cartridges, either the original console version from the corresponding region or a special cartridge adapter were purchased. The imported game module could be plugged into one of these, which was then “decrypted” in a certain way and also ran on other country versions of the corresponding console.

This changed with the CD-ROM from the mid-1990s. The copying of CD-ROM was not only comparatively easy, but also considerably cheaper than duplicating game modules due to the low material costs. Because more and more households had their own PC, the number of private copies increased. With systems such as Sony PlayStation and Sega Dreamcast, copying titles in the video game consoles flourished for the first time. Microsoft’s Xbox, which was built strongly like a standard PC, made modding even easier.

The installation of Modchips is subject to different laws depending on the region and moves in a legal grey zone. The sole possession of a modchip is legal in most countries. To own or play the copy of a game is usually not. Legally, it becomes complicated when the modchip intervenes in the structure of the original software/operating system of a game console.

The installation of Modchips is still as helpful as it is dubious. Video game console manufacturers are very keen to prevent the installation of modchips. Many video game consoles offer hardly any more starting points for installation in the hardware. Modern operating systems of video game consoles recognize a built-in modchip and a player can be excluded from certain functions, such as online gaming. A complete denial of the service of the video game console is also conceivable. In any case, such installation is only offered by third parties, i.e. in-depth dealers familiar with the matter. Logically, with the insertion of a modchip, the guarantee that the buyer enjoys expires. Retailers therefore often offer their own warranty on the function together with the installation of the modchip.