# Console Specs

> ZX fantasy console hardware specifications and resource budgets. Covers resolution (960x540), memory limits (4 MB RAM/VRAM, 16 MB ROM), render modes, audio system (22 kHz, 16 channels), and input layout. Use when planning resource budgets or checking console capabilities.

- Skill: `nethercore-systems/console-specs` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add nethercore-systems/console-specs`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/nethercore-systems/console-specs/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- License: Apache-2.0
- Author: nethercore-systems (https://skillmd.com/u/nethercore-systems)
- Updated: 2026-09-10
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/nethercore-systems/console-specs

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# ZX Console Specifications

## Core Specs

| Spec | Value |
|------|-------|
| Resolution | 960x540 fixed (16:9) |
| Color depth | 32-bit RGBA8 |
| ROM | 16 MiB total (WASM code + assets) |
| RAM | 4 MiB WASM linear memory |
| VRAM | 4 MiB GPU textures and mesh buffers |
| Tick rate | 30/60/120 Hz netplay; console spec also advertises 24 Hz local-only (verify the pack/runtime path before using 24) |
| Max players | 4 |
| Alpha | 2-bit Bayer 4x4 |

## Render Modes

Choose ONE in `nether.toml`; it is not a runtime FFI call.

| Mode | Name | Best For |
|------|------|----------|
| 0 | Lambert | 2D, flat stylized |
| 1 | Matcap | Stylized 3D, toon |
| 2 | MR-Blinn-Phong | PBR, realistic |
| 3 | Blinn-Phong | Retro 5th-gen |

## Audio System

| Spec | Value |
|------|-------|
| Sample rate | 22,050 Hz |
| Format | 16-bit signed PCM, mono |
| Sound channels | 16 simultaneous |
| Music channel | 1 dedicated |

## Input (Native Controller State)

The FFI reads the host's native controller state for players 0-3. Physical
devices are mapped to those player slots by the host; games consume the
deterministic button/axis queries rather than a keyboard or gamepad library.

| Input | Type |
|-------|------|
| D-Pad | 4-way digital |
| Face buttons | A, B, X, Y |
| Bumpers | L1, R1 (digital) |
| Triggers | L2, R2 (analog 0-1) |
| Sticks | Left + Right (analog -1 to 1) |
| Menu | Start, Select |

## What ZX Excels At

- 3D platformers and action games
- Fighting games (4-player, rollback)
- Racing games
- Third-person adventures
- Split-screen local multiplayer
- Online competitive games

## What Requires Planning

- Large open worlds (16 MB ROM)
- Orchestral soundtracks (16 channels)
- Massive texture counts (4 MB VRAM)