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CreatiVision

CreatiVision icon CreatiVision logo

Overview

The CreatiVision is a hybrid computer/console developed by VTech and first released in 1982. Its detachable keypad/joystick combo lets it function as both a game system and a compact keyboard-driven computer. REG-Linux treats this platform as crvision within the arcade group so themes with the crvision art set can highlight it.

Technical specifications

  • CPU: MOS Technology 6502 at 1.79 MHz
  • Memory: 1 KB RAM plus 16 KB onboard ROM per unit and cartridge slots for extra ROM
  • Graphics: TMS9918A VDP with 256×192 resolution, 16 colors, 32 sprites
  • Sound: AY-3-8910 PSG delivering three channels

Supported ROM extensions

bin, rom, zip, 7z

Quick reference

  • Emulator: MAME
  • ROM folder: /userdata/roms/crvision
  • Accepted formats: .bin, .rom, .zip, .7z

BIOS

MAME requires the crvision.zip (or .7z) BIOS archive in your roms/crvision or global bios/ folder to drive the CreatiVision hardware. Leave the filename intact so REG-Linux can detect it.

ROMs

Place CreatiVision cartridge images in /userdata/roms/crvision. MAME loads raw ROMs or zipped collections containing the same files.

Emulators

MAME

MAME handles CreatiVision emulation. Use the in-game menu ([HOTKEY] + south button or Tab) to adjust controllers, scaling or other options. REG-Linux exposes crvision.videomode, crvision.decoration and crvision.padtokeyboard system-wide.

ES setting name REG-Linux.conf_key Description => ES option key_value
GRAPHICS BACKEND crvision.video Choose BGFX shader-based rendering or Accel/OpenGL for a direct feed.
BGFX BACKEND crvision.bgfxbackend Select the BGFX graphics API.
BGFX VIDEO FILTER crvision.bgfxshaders Apply CRT or scaling shaders.
CRT SWITCHRES crvision.switchres Enable SwitchRes for CRT setups.
TATE MODE crvision.rotation Rotate the output for vertical monitors.
ALT DPAD MODE crvision.altdpad Adjust D-pad orientation if controllers behave oddly.
MEDIA TYPE crvision.altromtype Signal whether a file is a cartridge or cassette.
CUSTOM CONFIG crvision.pergamecfg Enable per-game MAME configuration.

Controls

The CreatiVision controller overlay features a numeric keypad and joystick. The default mapping is shown on a REG-Linux Retropad:

CreatiVision controller overlay

Remap inputs per game through MAME’s UI when certain keypad buttons are required.

Troubleshooting

  • Confirm crvision.zip (or .7z) exists in the bios folder and matches the expected name.
  • Remap controls if the keypad overlay requires special keys not present on standard gamepads.
  • For driver-specific problems, consult the MAME troubleshooting section.