If you've received an "Integrity check failed" message while using your Operator device, it indicates that data from your cartridge is not being properly read. This could stem from various issues, which this guide aims to help you troubleshoot.
1. Clean the Cartridge Pins: The foremost cause for this error, especially with official games, is improper contact between the cartridge and the Operator device. Always ensure that your cartridge is clean. Dirty contact pins can interfere with the device's ability to read the game data. For a detailed guide on cleaning cartridge pins properly, please refer to our tutorial: How Should I Clean my Game Cartridge Pins?
2. Proper Cartridge Insertion: If your cart is authentic and has been meticulously cleaned, but you still face the error, the challenge could lie in how the cartridge connects with the Operator device. The cartridge should sit comfortably in the device; it shouldn't be loose or need force for insertion. It’s also beneficial to open the cartridge and inspect the PCB (printed circuit board) for any visible damage or worn-out pins.
3. Issues with Unofficial Games: Unofficial or counterfeit games might often fail the integrity check. This could be due to the architecture of these carts differing from the original ones, or simply because they degrade faster due to inferior components. Another potential reason is if the game flashed onto the cartridge contains irregular or corrupted data.
4. Check Multiple Games: To narrow down the root cause, try using as many games from your collection as possible with the GB Operator. If several official games give this error, it may indicate a hardware issue with the Operator itself. In such instances, File a Warranty Request, and our dedicated team will investigate the matter further.
5. Single Game Issues: If only one or a couple of your official games give this error, after executing the above steps, the problem most probably lies within the cartridge itself. There are multiple possible causes for this issue, but most commonly we find that cartridge pins with corrosion/grime/excessive usage are at fault, some of these issues can't be corrected by an IPA cleanup. The GB Operator is designed to conduct extensive integrity checks to ensure data from the cartridge is read accurately for flawless play on the software. Original consoles do not perform such rigorous checks, so while the game may seem to run without hitches on the console, it could have underlying data issues. These could manifest as minor glitches, such as textures having missing pixels or colors appearing slightly off.
The "Integrity check failed" message is the GB Operator's way of ensuring you get the best gaming experience. By following the above steps, you can diagnose and possibly resolve the issues leading to this error.