PatchMyROM

How to Patch Pokemon ROM Hacks

A straightforward, step-by-step guide to safely patching Pokemon ROM hacks.

  1. 1

    Get your original ROM

    Start with a legally-dumped backup of the base game the hack is built on. PatchMyROM does not provide ROM files.

  2. 2

    Download the patch file

    Download the hack's patch file (usually .ips, .ups, or .bps) from the hack creator's official page.

  3. 3

    Check the required base ROM

    Read the hack's documentation for the required region and revision (e.g. Fire Red 1.0 USA). Using the wrong base ROM is the most common cause of patching failures.

  4. 4

    Select both files in the patcher

    Choose your original ROM and the patch file. Everything happens locally in your browser — no files are uploaded.

  5. 5

    Apply the patch and download

    Once applied, download your patched ROM and load it in your emulator of choice.

Related Guides

ROM PatcherPatch a ROM file directly in your browser.Pokemon ROM PatcherFormat tips and notes specific to Pokemon ROM hacks.Patch Formats ExplainedIPS vs UPS vs BPS vs xdelta — which one do you need?TroubleshootingFix common ROM patching errors and mismatches.

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