dR,
To begin the dark road to Dreamcast softmodding you really only need a very general knowledge of how the backup process is done.
I am going to bypass all the technical junk (like I almost always do) and say this:
There is 2 ways (that I know of) to play backed up games. First is a special iso boot loader you can find if you google. Second is a patched iso.
Now the first option is very simple. Pop in the boot loader, wait for the Sega logo, then you see a strange looking dog with antlers (no joke!), then you put in your backed up cdr game. You are good to go.
Second option is even easier, you just play the backed up game. These games are patched with the proper boot sector to allow the games to load from the console. I should point out that most popular games have been patched and work fine. PROPS go out to the group ECHOLEON who did most of the games I have.
If you are just looking to get some games working on your dreamcast box I suggest downloading the iso's. NOTE: Dreamcast are not dvd size. They are cdr size (700 megs or smaller).
If you need the bootloader and cant find it, msg me and I will see if I can dig it up
If you need instruction on how to burn or backup original isos I may make a tutorial when I have more time.
For now if you have the iso on your hard drive use an app like Alcohol 120%
Hope this helps
MIKEMAN