Identify the console and supported compressed formats
Keep an uncompressed backup of every original ROM
Use a trusted compression tool for the target format
Compress only formats supported by your emulator or flash cart
Avoid compressing ROMs that are already in compressed container formats
Verify the compressed file launches correctly after compression
Rename files clearly so the game and system remain easy to identify
Store compressed ROMs in organized folders by console
Use lossless compression only
Keep BIOS files separate from game ROMs
Match file extensions to the format expected by your emulator
Test save/load functionality after compressing
Recompress only if the target device benefits from it
Do not alter the ROM contents beyond compression
Check compatibility before using compressed ROMs on original hardware
Keep a checksum or hash list for verification
Remove duplicate ROMs before archiving
Use batch compression only after confirming settings on a single file
Update emulator settings if they require a specific compressed format
Preserve multi-disc game structure when compressing disc images
Archive your compressed library with a consistent naming convention