This program is based on some work I did many years ago back when I still had the time and inclination to play video games. I hadn't gotten around to turning it into something suitable for public consumption, and I've always considered the potential user base to be minuscule (nil it turns out), so it was never publicly released.
Sometime around 2016(?) I decided to rework it into something more presentable as part of a failed program to clear out a few unreleased projects.
This software is a command-line program (*) capable of creating a stand-alone DOL file from the contents of the USA Game Boy Player Start-Up Disc (SUD).
(*) Wait! Come back! I've also created an interactive batch file to aid some of you!
Said DOL can be loaded directly into the GC's memory and executed, providing the same core functionality as the SUD along with additional features and improvements.
With this software, you can...
Some features may not be compatible with your setup or are disabled by default.
Customization Pack - This package would have aided you in editing the graphics for the built-in frames (borders) as demonstrated on this page, but it was canceled due to a bug in wszst that partially corrupts the graphics in certain situations. I sent an inquiry to the author about this, including samples that demonstrate the problem, but never got a reply so that was the end of that.
This procedure will create a DOL file containing enhanced GBP start-up software. While you won't be able to get the full experience without it, you needn't fear the command line as long as you can follow instructions.
Make sure you are confident in your capacity to execute DOL files on the appropriate hardware before you begin. I have created a brief description of what I believe to be the simplest/cheapest method in a file called "Generic DOL Loading.txt" included with the main program.
Assuming the above succeeded, you now need to load the DOL file you just created on a real GameCube augmented with a Game Boy Player. Basic instructions are included with the main program in a file called "Generic DOL Loading.txt".
Once you've had some success using the "Wizard", perhaps you will have the courage to experiment with different options using the command line interface.
If you are having difficulty, and also patience, you may email me for assistance.
To make samples of custom tiled borders, I went old-school.
This is "Gone Fishing" from Windows XP, copyright Microsoft Corporation.
And here's "Bubbles" from Windows 98, copyright Microsoft Corporation.
