For many retro gaming fans, Super Smash Bros. 64 holds a special place in their hearts. Released in 1999 for the Nintendo 64, it paved the way for one of Nintendo’s most beloved franchises. Today, gamers can relive that nostalgia on modern PCs using emulators like Project64. But if you want to skip unlocking characters all over again or just want to use your old save data, you’ll need to know how to load and manage save files properly. This guide walks you through the process step by step.
TL;DR:
If you want to use Super Smash Bros. 64 save files in Project64, you’ll need to download or locate your .eep or .sra save files. These files must be placed in the correct ‘Save’ directory used by the emulator and matched properly with your ROM. Once done, you can enjoy all your unlocked characters and settings without replaying everything from scratch. Just make sure the ROM and the save file are from the same regional version for compatibility.
Understanding Save Files in Project64
Before jumping into the setup process, it’s worth understanding what kind of save files Project64 uses:
- .eep – This format is typically used for games that use EEPROM save types, common among N64 titles.
- .sra – This is used for games that use SRAM-based saves. Although not as common for Super Smash Bros., some versions may generate this format.
- .pj – This is Project64’s native saved state format but used differently from game-internal save files.
For Super Smash Bros. 64, you will most likely be working with a .eep type save file.
Step-by-Step: Using Smash 64 Save Files in Project64
1. Locate or Download the Save File
If you’re transferring a save from another computer or you’ve downloaded one, make sure it’s specifically for Super Smash Bros. 64. Many fan communities share 100% completed save files, which include all characters unlocked.
Look for file names like:
- Super Smash Bros. (U).eep
- Smash64Save.eep
Make sure the save file matches the ROM version you are using — a USA (U), Europe (E), or Japan (J) release.
2. Find the Save Directory in Project64
Once you’ve got your save file, the next step is to locate Project64’s save directory:
- Open Project64.
- Click on Options > Settings.
- In the settings window, click the Directories tab.
- Take note of the Save directory path. This is where your save files are kept.
Navigate to that folder on your computer using File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac with Wine or Crossover setup).
3. Place the Save File in the Right Folder
Simply drag and drop your downloaded or transferred save file into the folder you just located. Make sure the file has the exact name as your ROM (excluding file extensions). For example:
- ROM: Super Smash Bros. (U).z64
- Save File: Super Smash Bros. (U).eep
Mismatched names can cause Project64 to ignore the save file altogether.
4. Load the Game and Confirm the Save
Now reopen Project64 and load your Smash Bros. ROM. Once the game starts, go to the title screen or character selection. You should notice that all characters (Jigglypuff, Captain Falcon, Ness, etc.) have been unlocked. If so, success!
In case nothing changes, double-check:
- The save file name matches the ROM name exactly.
- The file was correctly placed in the Save directory.
- You’re using the correct version of the ROM (USA, EU, or JP).
Where to Find Save Files Online
If you don’t already have a save file, there are several trustworthy sources to grab one:
- Reddit: Subreddits like r/Roms or r/emulators often have pinned resources with save files.
- Emulation Game Sites: Sites like EmuParadise (archived), GameFAQs, or Zophar’s Domain.
- Discord Communities: Emulator-focused groups frequently trade save files in dedicated channels.
Be cautious about downloading from sketchy or ad-focused sites. Stick to trusted forums and communities wherever possible.
Using Save States vs Native Save Files
It’s worth noting that Project64 allows both “save states” and “native save files”. While save states record a game’s exact memory at a moment in time, they are dependent on the specific emulator setup and version. Native save files (.eep and .sra), however, are more portable and work across different emulator versions, making them ideal for transferring progress.
If you regularly switch devices, use installed OS updates, or try different emulator versions, native save files are far more reliable than save states alone.
Backing Up Your Smash 64 Progress
Once you’ve unlocked everything and have your ideal setup, consider creating backups of your save files. Just copy the .eep file and move it to a separate folder or external drive. This protects your progress from accidental overwrite or emulator issues.
A good rule of thumb: back up before tweaking settings or updating Project64 versions.
Troubleshooting Tips
Still having issues using your Smash 64 save file? Here are some quick fixes:
- Rename ROM and Save File: Make sure they match letter for letter.
- Test with a Fresh ROM: Sometimes ROM corruption can cause save recognition bugs.
- Use Recommended Versions: Project64 v2.3 or later tends to handle save files more seamlessly.
- Don’t Mix Save States and Saves: Load from memory card-style saves, not save states, when using shared files.
Conclusion
With just a bit of setup, you can use Super Smash Bros. 64 save files inside Project64 to jump directly into the action with all characters and features unlocked. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or challenging friends to casual couch matches, save files make the experience faster and more flexible.
Emulators open doors, but it’s the little things—like preloaded save files—that make rediscovering classics smoother and more fun. Happy smashing!
