A new exploit called "Tony Hacks" allows PlayStation 1 (PS1) users to play backup games on their unmodified consoles. The exploit uses a buffer overflow in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 and 3 to load a custom backup loader, unlocking the CD drive and disabling the wobble groove protection. This means users can play backup games without the need for a mod chip. The exploit works on all PS1 models and is easily accessible, making it a game-changer for the console.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The original Sony PlayStation has gained attention due to devices like the X Station and PSIO.
2. Modification of the PlayStation is possible through enthusiast-level upgrades.
3. These modifications require opening up the system and installing complex electronics.
4. A simple standard mod chip for a PlayStation 1 requires experience with soldering.
5. A save game exploit was recently found in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 and 3.
6. The exploit, known as "Tony Hacks," allows for running backup games on an unmodified PS1.
7. Tony Hacks was developed by Marcos Del Soluez.
8. The exploit uses a buffer overflow to load a custom backup loader and unlock a few CD drive commands.
9. Tony Hacks works on all model PlayStation Ones.
10. The exploit leverages secret CD commands found in the PlayStation that were discovered in 2013.
11. The CD commands unlock the drive and effectively disable the wobble groove protection.
12. With the drive unlocked, it's possible to boot from a backup CDR.
13. Opening and closing the tray won't disable or reset the unlock state.
14. The unlock commands were documented by Martin Korth.
15. The commands are supported on every single PlayStation CD-ROM BIOS from the earliest model to late model PS1s.
16. Tony Hacks also works on a Net Yaroze.
17. Marcos Del Soluez has implemented Tony Hacks for more games, with many more on the way.
18. The list of all PS1 titles that can be exploited is outlined on his website.
19. To use Tony Hacks, you need to get the relevant exploited save game and the Tony Hacks loader on a PS1 memory card and boot from that game.
20. Getting a custom save game on a memory card can be done through the PlayStation 2 with Free MC Boot or a new memory card pro.
21. Pre-installed PS1 memory cards with save game exploits are available for purchase.
22. Save game exploit discoveries are not new for the Sony PS1.
23. Vulnerabilities were discovered for original PS1 games in 2018, but they never developed further into a working exploit.
24. Tony Hacks is a very easily accessible entry point for all PlayStation consoles to run backups without opening the system and performing a mod chip.