Compare Asteroids High Score Save Kits for Original Atari Hardware
Compare the HighScoreSaves and Braze Asteroids upgrade kits for compatible original Atari Asteroids vector PCBs. Both retain the original arcade hardware and install at the 6502 processor location, but their features and ROM/revision requirements differ.
Best suited to customers wanting menu-driven settings, separate supported score tables, Backup and Restore, attract/reset options, and optional Wi-Fi. Requires the supported Asteroids Version 2 vector ROM set.
Best suited to customers wanting the Braze Technologies REV2-based implementation, including its documented missing-final-initial correction and the required compatible REV2 vector EPROM.
Comparing Asteroids Upgrades for Original Atari Vector Hardware
Both Asteroids upgrade options are designed for compatible original Atari Asteroids vector arcade hardware. Neither kit replaces the original game with a multicade, reproduction board, or software-emulation platform. The Atari PCB, vector display system, cabinet controls, and core game hardware remain in service.
The major differences are the additional kit features and the ROM and board-revision requirements. The HighScoreSaves kit emphasizes configurable settings, separate score tables, score management, and optional Wi-Fi. The Braze kit uses its documented REV2 implementation, includes the required compatible REV2 vector EPROM, and provides its REV2 missing-final-initial correction.
HighScoreSaves vs. Braze Asteroids Kit
| Feature | HighScoreSaves Asteroids Kit | Braze Asteroids Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | HighScoreSaves | Braze Technologies |
| Original Hardware | Compatible original Atari Asteroids PCB | Compatible original Atari Asteroids PCB |
| Processor / Socket | 6502 / compatible 40-pin socket | 6502 / compatible 40-pin socket |
| Permanent Score Saving | Top 10 scores | Top 10 scores and initials |
| Extended Scoring | Up to 9,999,990 points | Up to 9,999,990 points |
| Free Play | Yes | Yes |
| Menu-Driven Settings | Yes | Not listed as a Braze product feature |
| Separate Score Tables | Separate tables for supported lives settings | One Top 10 table |
| Backup & Restore | Yes | Not listed as a Braze product feature |
| Reset / Attract Options | Supported | Not listed as Braze product features |
| Optional Wi-Fi Leaderboard | Available | Not offered with this product |
| ROM / Revision Requirement | Asteroids Version 2 vector ROM set required | REV2-based; compatible REV2 vector EPROM required |
| REV2 Vector EPROM Included | No included EPROM listed | Yes |
| REV2 Missing-Final-Initial Correction | Not listed as a specific feature | Yes |
Which Asteroids Kit Should You Choose?
Asteroids 6502, ROM & PCB Requirements
Both upgrades install through the original 6502 CPU location on documented compatible Atari Asteroids hardware and require a compatible 40-pin processor socket.
If the 6502 is soldered directly to the PCB, a qualified arcade technician must remove the processor and install a compatible 40-pin socket before either daughterboard can be fitted.
ROM configuration is an important difference. The HighScoreSaves product requires the supported Asteroids Version 2 vector ROM set. The Braze product uses its documented REV2 configuration and includes the compatible REV2 vector EPROM required for that kit. Inspect the actual Atari PCB and review the installation guide for the specific product before ordering.
Asteroids Kit Comparison FAQ
Are both Asteroids kits designed for original Atari arcade hardware?
Yes. Both products are intended for documented compatible original Atari Asteroids arcade PCBs and install through the original 6502 CPU location.
Do both Asteroids kits require a socketed 6502?
Yes. A compatible 40-pin socket is required at the original 6502 location. If the CPU is soldered directly to the PCB, a qualified arcade technician must install a socket before either daughterboard can be used.
What is the main ROM difference between the two Asteroids kits?
The HighScoreSaves product requires the supported Asteroids Version 2 vector ROM set. The Braze product uses its documented REV2 configuration and includes the compatible REV2 vector EPROM required by that kit.
Which Asteroids kit supports Wi-Fi leaderboard uploading?
The HighScoreSaves Asteroids kit is available in an optional Wi-Fi-enabled version. The Braze Asteroids product is not offered with HighScoreSaves Wi-Fi support.
Does the Asteroids settings-menu video apply to both kits?
No. The Asteroids settings-menu video applies to the HighScoreSaves-designed kit. Follow the Braze installation documentation for Braze setup and operation.
Which kit corrects the Asteroids REV2 missing-final-initial issue?
The Braze Asteroids kit specifically documents a correction for the REV2 issue that can remove the final initial from the tenth high score entry.