Vanguard Free Play and High Score Save Kit
Product information "Vanguard Free Play and High Score Save Kit"
The HighScoreSaves Vanguard Free Play and High Score Save Kit upgrades compatible original SNK Vanguard arcade hardware with permanent Top 5 high score saving, 3-character initials, Free Play, selectable 1-button or 4-button shooting, menu-driven settings, separate score tables, ROM Saver, Backup and Restore, Reset, Fast Boot, Stealth Mode, God Mode, and optional Wi-Fi leaderboard functionality while continuing to use the original arcade PCB, controls, sound, timing, and gameplay hardware.
Vanguard Compatibility & Requirements
Installation: Plug-in installation when the original 6502 processor is already socketed. If the 6502 is soldered directly to the PCB, a compatible 40-pin socket must be installed before the kit can be fitted.
Vanguard Settings Menu Access
Power the cabinet off, hold Player 1 Start, power the cabinet back on, and release the button when prompted on screen.
What This Kit Adds
What's Included
Verify 6502 processor orientation, Pin 1 alignment, CPU socket condition, daughter-card seating, ROM Saver configuration, and every documented installation step before applying power.
Standard vs. Wi-Fi Kit
Standard Kit
Saves supported scores locally and includes the core Free Play, shooting-mode, menu, score-table, Backup and Restore, ROM Saver, Reset, Fast Boot, Stealth Mode, God Mode, and other supported local features without requiring an internet connection.
Wi-Fi Enabled Kit
Includes the same local high score and gameplay functionality while adding supported online leaderboard functionality.
Wi-Fi can be disabled without affecting local score saving or normal gameplay. Wi-Fi-enabled kits use compatible 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks.
Vanguard Kit FAQ
Which arcade hardware is this kit designed for?
The kit is designed for compatible original SNK Vanguard arcade hardware.
Which processor does the Vanguard kit require?
A compatible 6502 processor is required.
What comes with the base kit?
The base Vanguard kit includes one HighScoreSaves 6502 daughter card.
Does installation require soldering?
No soldering is required when the 6502 location already has a compatible 40-pin socket. If the processor is soldered directly to the PCB, a compatible socket must be installed first.
How many high scores are saved?
The kit stores the Top 5 supported high scores and supports 3-character initials.
Are there separate score tables for different lives settings?
Yes. Separate supported high score tables are available for 2, 3, 4, and 5 lives.
Can I use 1-button or 4-button shooting?
Yes. The shooting configuration can be selected through the kit menu. Each firing mode uses separate supported high score tables.
How do I enter the settings menu?
Power the cabinet off, hold Player 1 Start, power the cabinet back on, and release the button when prompted.
Can I use Free Play and still keep coin operation?
Yes. The kit supports both Free Play and traditional quarter or token operation.
Can I back up and restore high scores?
Yes. Backup and Restore functionality is included.
What does ROM Saver do?
It allows supported original program ROMs to be removed and stored while the HighScoreSaves kit provides the supported game program.
What is Stealth Mode?
Stealth Mode boots directly into gameplay for a more stock-style cabinet presentation.
Does the kit support upright and cocktail cabinets?
Yes. The current Vanguard documentation supports upright and cocktail cabinet configurations.
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1 review
October 16, 2025 12:09 PM
Love the freeplay with attract mode and High score save!
This kit adds some needed items to the game! High scores save with attract mode is fantastic!
Super easy to install.