The hidden 3D mode of the HyperZone video game can be played with 3D glasses

The hidden 3D mode of the HyperZone video game can be played with 3D glasses

HyperZones is one of those SNES titles that didn't set the world on fire at launch, but still built a cult following in the years following its release. Much of the game's appeal is due to the innovative use of Mode 7 effects to present a realistic impression of 3D motion, but HAL had plans to make the visual impact even more pronounced.

You see, HyperZone contains stereoscopic 3D support, but it can only be enabled by entering a cheat code, and Nintendo has never been able to release the hardware needed to make this effect work. This type of visual deception requires a set of "active shutter" glasses like those released for the 8-bit Famicom in Japan, so I could being that Nintendo originally had plans to release a pair for SNES, but never did.

However, it is actually possible to play HyperZone in true 3D, but you will need a lot of equipment to do it.

The code required to activate 3D mode is:

Select, Select, A, B, Select, Select, X, Y, Select, Select, L, R, Up

If entered correctly, the HyperZone title text will change from orange to red. You can then deactivate and reactivate the effect by pressing Select. The problem, beyond the large expense required to obtain all the necessary equipment, is that the game contains slowdowns, which means that the 3D effect is not synchronized with the glasses.

Although the existence of the 3D cheat code has been known for some time, this is the first time we've personally seen anyone mention that the game is also capable of supporting the “Famicom 3D System” glasses.

Source: www.nintendolife.com/