If you’re diving into the world of retro gaming, you’ve probably noticed that older consoles and modern displays don’t always get along. Enter the Open Source Scan Converter (OSSC), a powerhouse device for making your classic games look amazing on today’s TVs and monitors. This article breaks down what the OSSC does, explores its Add-On Board, and explains some key features like upscaling, scanlines, and smoothing.
What is the OSSC?
The OSSC is a video upscaler designed for retro game enthusiasts. Its main job is to convert and upscale signals from old game consoles—like the Atari Jaguar,Sega CD, Sega Dreamcast, and more—so they look sharp and play smoothly on modern HD and 4K displays. Unlike standard video converters, the OSSC doesn’t compress or alter the signal, meaning you get the most authentic visuals possible. It’s like giving your old games a high-definition makeover without losing their charm.
Meet the OSSC Add-On Board
While the OSSC is incredible, earlier versions primarily worked with RGB, component, and VGA signals. The OSSC Add-On Board changes the game by adding support for composite and S-Video signals, letting you connect consoles that lack RGB or component outputs. Think of systems like the Nintendo 64 or older PlayStation models—this board ensures they’ll look their best too.
By pairing the OSSC with the Add-On Board, you unlock compatibility with a wider range of retro consoles, keeping your gaming setup versatile and inclusive.
What is Retro Game Upscaling?
Upscaling takes the original low-resolution signal from a retro console and transforms it into a higher-resolution output. The OSSC doesn’t just stretch the image; it line-doubles, triples, or even sextuple (6x the original resolution up to 1440p) the signal to fill the screen crisply without adding lag. This method keeps your games looking detailed and avoids the blurry mess you might get from a basic TV scaler.
What Are Scanlines and How Do They Impact the Look of Games?
Scanlines are thin black horizontal lines that were a natural feature of CRT (cathode-ray tube) displays used back in the day. These lines gave old games a distinctive look, blending the pixels together in a way that softened the image and added a nostalgic charm.
The OSSC can recreate this effect digitally, adding scanlines to your upscaled games. This doesn’t just make the games look more authentic—it also subtly enhances the way sprites and textures appear, helping them look closer to how they were originally intended. For many retro gaming fans, scanlines are a must-have feature that bridges the gap between the past and the present.
What Does the Smoothing Setting Do?
The smoothing setting on the OSSC and the OSSC Add-On Board is a tool for softening pixel edges. This can be especially helpful for 3D games or certain sprite-based titles, where sharp edges might look too harsh on today’s larger, crisper screens. Think of smoothing as a way to blend the pixels together slightly, creating a more natural, polished appearance.
Conclusion
The OSSC v1.8 and its Add-On Board are essential tools for retro gaming enthusiasts who want to enjoy classic games on modern displays. From preserving the original look of games with scanlines to enhancing compatibility with composite and S-Video signals, these devices make it easier than ever to keep retro gaming alive and vibrant.
Ready to dive deeper? Watch the video above for more details and to see these features in action. Then click the link to get your own OSSC on Amazon (affiliate link).
