Standalone game vs ROM patch: what changes?
First identify what the developer distributes. A ROM patch modifies your own matching base game, a standalone project arrives as a complete application, and a source-built project must be compiled locally. Those routes are not interchangeable.
Bring the matching base
The developer supplies a patch, not the complete game. You apply it locally to the exact legally obtained base game named in the project instructions.
Needs: patch + matching base + compatible patcherInstall the complete application
The developer distributes a complete game for one or more supported operating systems. You follow that project's install instructions without supplying a ROM.
Needs: official installer or package + supported deviceCompile the official code
The developer publishes source code and a toolchain. You create the playable output locally instead of downloading an unofficial ready-made build.
Needs: source + documented toolchain + build stepsWhat you receive—and what you must provide
The profile's Distribution field decides which column applies. Never infer the route from the project's name or visual style.
| Model | Developer provides | You provide | Main action | Never substitute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ROM patch | A patch containing the project's changes | The exact legally obtained base game required by the developer | Apply the patch locally with a compatible patcher | A prepatched download or mirror |
| Standalone install | The complete game application through an official source | A supported computer or device | Follow the project's operating-system-specific instructions | A ROM, emulator or patch |
| Build from source | Source code and build instructions | The exact toolchain named by the project | Compile the project locally, then follow its runtime instructions | An unofficial ready-made build |
Choose the correct route in four checks
- Open the canonical profile. Read its Distribution field before downloading or installing anything.
- Use the developer-owned source. Do not replace an unavailable official page with a mirror, repost or prebuilt copy.
- Follow that project's exact requirements. Base revision, operating system and toolchain can differ between projects.
- Back up before updating. Keep the previous working build and an independent copy of the in-game save.
Pocket Radar never hosts or links ROMs, BIOS files, prepatched games, mirrors or unofficial compiled builds.
Use the guide that matches the model
A patch guide cannot safely replace standalone or source-build instructions. Continue only through the route shown on the profile.