How to Use a GameShark on Nintendo 64: Complete Setup Guide

The GameShark isn't "turned on"—it's a pass-through cartridge that boots a menu before your game. Follow these steps exactly.

Hardware Setup

1. Power OFF the N64.
2. Insert GameShark cartridge into the console slot.
3. Insert your game cartridge into the GameShark's top slot.
4. Power ON the N64.

Accessing the Menu

• GameShark Pro / v3.0+: Menu appears automatically. Navigate with D-Pad, confirm with A.
• Older Models (v1.x, v2.x): Hold L + R + Z + Start during boot (while the GameShark logo shows) to force the menu.
• GameShark Lite: Press the reset button on the cartridge once the game logo appears.

Entering Codes

1. Select Add New Cheat or Enter Codes.
2. Name the cheat (e.g., "Infinite Health").
3. Input the 12-16 character hex code (format: `80XXXXXX XXXX`). Use the on-screen keyboard.
4. Enable the cheat (checkmark/ON).
5. Select Start Game.

Critical Warnings

• Region Match: Codes must match your game's region (USA/NTSC-U, EUR/PAL, JPN/NTSC-J). Wrong region = crash.
• Master Code: Most games require a "Master Code" (often labeled "Must Be On") enabled first.
• Save Corruption: Never save with cheats active unless the code notes say "Safe to Save."
• Hardware Wear: Frequent cart swapping wears the N64's connector. Use a GameShark with a parallel port (v3.3+) to load codes via PC instead.

Find verified codes at GameHacking.org (search by GameShark/N64).