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slap review

Free#34 of 49 in ROM Hacking Tools

A focused patch utility for ROM workflows, not a game-data editor.

4.1/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

slap is a ROM patching tool for people who need to apply, create, convert, or inspect patch files across multiple games. It is available as a web application and a command-line program, with a free, open-source offering. Its scope is deliberately centered on patch workflows rather than changing game data or graphics directly, so it suits patch maintainers and users handling files in different formats better than creators seeking a full ROM editing suite.

Format support is a central strength: the published list includes APS-GBA, APS-N64, BPS, BSDiff, DPS, EBP, GDIFF, IPS, IPS32, NINJA1, NINJA2, PMSR, PPF1 through PPF4, UPS, VCDIFF, xdelta1, and xdelta3. slap can apply patches, create them by comparing original and modified files, and convert between supported formats. Its inspection features display metadata, record counts, and checksums, and explain patch contents and records. It can also retrieve patches stored inside ZIP and 7z archives. Undoing a patch depends on whether its format supports reversal.

The choice is less suitable when the task is editing a ROM itself: slap does not provide direct ROM data or graphics editing, tile or sprite tools, or a hex editor. That makes it a focused companion for applying and understanding patches, rather than an all-in-one hacking environment. Choose it if patch format handling is the main job; look for a different kind of tool if you need to edit game content or graphics. The web application offers a browser-based route, while the CLI provides another way to work with patch operations.

slap pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Works with a broad range of patch formats, including IPS, BPS, UPS, and xdelta.
    • Creates patches by comparing original and modified files.
    • Explains patch contents and can retrieve patches from ZIP and 7z archives.
  • Where it doesn't
    • Does not edit ROM data or graphics directly.
    • Does not include tile or sprite editing or a hex editor.
    • Patch reversal is available only for formats that support it.

slap fact sheet, pricing and score →

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