Keio Flying Squadron 2 English Hack Delivers Perfect Performance on Sega Saturn NTSC Systems

Keio Flying Squadron 2, developed by Victor Entertainment, is revered among retro gaming enthusiasts for its unique blend of shoot 'em up mechanics and vibrant, platforming action.

Originally debuting on the Sega Saturn in 1996, this sequel built upon the playful, Parodius-style charm of its Sega CD predecessor, adding creative platforming sections and eye-catching graphics to the formula.

While Keio Flying Squadron 2 left a lasting impression in the Japanese and European markets, North American players never received an official release, making English-accessible copies both rare and expensive. For years, English-speaking fans seeking to experience the game on original hardware faced a pair of frustrating barriers: the English PAL version is not only scarce but also operates at 50hz, which is incompatible with the standard NTSC (60hz) refresh rates found in Japanese and North American systems.

This mismatch led to technical issues, notably audio desynchronization that truncated voice overs at the end of each chapter. In a breakthrough for preservation and accessibility, independent hacker KoolFiller has developed an English text and dubbed audio hack specifically for the Japanese NTSC version of Keio Flying Squadron 2.

As reported by Sega Saturn Shiro, this patch brings the language features of the European release to NTSC consoles, running at an optimal 60hz.

KoolFiller commented that the modified ROM is "almost identical to the European release, except running in NTSC 60hz, without cutting short the end of chapter static screen voiceovers audio." This community-driven enhancement is a significant step for fans and preservationists.

Not only does it restore the full intended experience, but it also ensures that Keio Flying Squadron 2 remains accessible and enjoyable for modern retro gamers and collectors who prioritize perfect performance.

The hack allows gamers to bypass the technical and financial hurdles associated with the rare PAL version and enjoy the seamless gameplay and rich voice acting as originally intended by Victor Entertainment's developers. Keio Flying Squadron 2 stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of its time—a hallmark of 1990s game development, enhanced now by modern fan dedication.

With the arrival of this new English hack for the Sega Saturn, the classic game is poised to reach a broader audience and cement its reputation as a must-play entry in the shoot 'em up and platforming canon.

Sega Sega Saturn Saturn consoles English Keio Flying Squadron 2 Victor Entertainment KoolFiller English hack NTSC Parodius Sega Saturn Shiro