Classic Sega Consoles Worth Revisiting
For retro gamers and collectors, the classic game consoles from Sega hold a special appeal. While Sega stopped making hardware long ago, their iconic systems remain popular with fans looking to relive the magic of the early console wars. Here's a look at some of the vintage Sega systems that are still worth your time today.
Genesis/Mega Drive
The Sega Genesis, known as the Mega Drive outside North America, was Sega's 16-bit workhorse console of the early 90s. It went head-to-head against the Super Nintendo and featured a Motorola 68000 CPU along with a Zilog Z80 sound chip. The Genesis is still renowned for its excellent library of arcade ports and action games like:
- Sonic the Hedgehog
- Streets of Rage
- Golden Axe
- Shinobi
- Gunstar Heroes
Later revisions of the Genesis like the Model 2 and 3 ironed out some early technical quirks. Many popular controllers like the 6-button pad made the Genesis more versatile. The Genesis remains easy to collect for and fun to play today.
Dreamcast
The Dreamcast was Sega's final console before leaving the hardware business in 2001. Released in 1998, it innovated with built-in modem connectivity for online multiplayer and downloadable content. Some groundbreaking Dreamcast games include:
- Sonic Adventure
- Soul Calibur
- Crazy Taxi
- Shenmue
- Skies of Arcadia
Despite a cult following, the Dreamcast suffered from piracy concerns and ultimately could not compete with the PlayStation 2. However, its game library was excellent, and its VMU memory cards with mini-games were revolutionary. The Dreamcast has one of the most passionate collector communities today.
Saturn
The Sega Saturn was designed to push 2D sprite-based games to new heights. While it struggled against the PlayStation commercially, it's now remembered fondly for its many excellent 2D shooters and fighting games like:
- NiGHTS Into Dreams
- Radiant Silvergun
- Guardian Heroes
- Dragon Force
- Marvel vs. Capcom
The Saturn's complex dual-CPU architecture made it difficult to develop for, limiting potential hits. Still, fans of 2D games and arcade-perfect ports seek out the Saturn today thanks to its impressive handling of the format.
There's no denying the lasting appeal of Sega's classic game consoles. For many gamers, they represent a golden era of bold ideas, iconic mascots, and revolutionary technology. Revisit the Genesis, Dreamcast, and Saturn to experience Sega's unique hardware heyday firsthand.
Genesis/Mega Drive
Debuting in 1988, the Sega Genesis, known as the Mega Drive outside of North America, ushered in the 16-bit era of video game consoles. With its Motorola 68000 CPU and Zilog Z80 sound chip, the Genesis competed fiercely against the Super Nintendo and became Sega's most successful console ever.
Technical Specifications
- Main CPU: Motorola 68000 @ 7.6 MHz
- Graphics: Yamaha YM7101 VDP
- Resolution: 320x224 pixels
- Max colors: 512 (64 onscreen)
- Sound (PSG): Yamaha YM2612
- Media: ROM cartridges
Various cost-reduced variants were released, including the Genesis 2 and Genesis 3, before production ended in 1997.
Controllers
The standard Genesis controller featured a simple 8-button layout. The 3-button control pad limited gameplay options at first. The 6-button pad released later became the preferred controller, adding more face buttons.
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Add-Ons
Sega released several major peripherals for the Genesis:
- Sega CD - CD-ROM add-on
- 32X - 32-bit cartridge addon
- Power Base Converter - Play Master System games
- Sega Channel - Game downloads via cable
Notable Games
The Genesis was home to some of Sega's most iconic franchises and games:
- Sonic the Hedgehog
- Golden Axe
- Mortal Kombat
- Streets of Rage
- NBA Jam
- Gunstar Heroes
With its expansive library and popularity, the Genesis cemented Sega's significance in the 16-bit console wars of the early 1990s.
Genesis/Mega Drive Mini
Part of the surge in retro mini consoles, the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive Mini encapsulates the 16-bit glory of Sega's legendary console in a compact, plug-and-play package. With 40 built-in classic games, the Mini faithfully recreates the vintage Sega experience on modern HD TVs.
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Specifications
- Dimensions: 120mm x 32mm x 116mm
- Weight: 0.36kg
- Video Output: 720p HDMI
- Audio Output: Stereo Minijack
- Controllers: 2 USB controllers
The Mini emulates the original console with no cartridge slot but includes two wired controllers. The US version has a volume switch and headphone jack on the front.
Game Library
The Mini contains 40 built-in Genesis/Mega Drive games:
- Sonic the Hedgehog 1, 2
- Ecco the Dolphin
- Castlevania Bloodlines
- Space Harrier 2
- Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine
- Golden Axe
- Shining Force
Regional releases vary slightly but focus on Sega's core classics and fan favorites.
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Features
- Save/reload game state slots
- Various visual filters for nostalgia
- Screen settings like burn-in effect
- Rewind gameplay by up to 40 seconds
The Mini provides quality of life improvements like save states while remaining true to the authentic Genesis experience.
Reception
The Genesis Mini garnered very positive reviews from critics and fans alike. Praise focused on:
- Accurate emulation and sound
- Game library hits the right nostalgia notes
- Affordable price point
- Controller quality and lag-free response
For the price, the Genesis Mini is an excellent way to revisit Sega's 16-bit glory on a modern TV with a curated library of classics.
Must-Have Games for Sega Fans
With its long history of consoles, Sega has produced hundreds of iconic and memorable video games. For diehard Sega fans looking to collect and play the very best, here are some must-have titles across various Sega systems.
Sonic the Hedgehog Series
No Sega collection is complete without games starring their lightning-fast blue mascot. Essential Sonic titles include:
- Sonic the Hedgehog (Genesis)
- Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Genesis)
- Sonic CD (Sega CD)
- Sonic Adventure (Dreamcast)
Streets of Rage Series
This iconic side-scrolling beat-em-up series defined Sega's action pedigree. Don't miss:
- Streets of Rage
- Streets of Rage 2
- Streets of Rage 3
Ecco the Dolphin
Players guide Ecco through beautiful underwater worlds in this unique Genesis series:
- Ecco the Dolphin
- Ecco: The Tides of Time
Phantasy Star Series
This pioneering Sega RPG series began on the Master System and continued through later consoles:
- Phantasy Star (Master System)
- Phantasy Star IV (Genesis)
- Phantasy Star Online (Dreamcast)
Shenmue
This groundbreaking open-world action game remains a landmark Dreamcast title.
Crazy Taxi
This super fun arcade racer had rip-roaring success on the Dreamcast.
From Sonic to Shenmue, these games showcase the range and diversity that makes Sega such a revered name in gaming history.
Sonic the Hedgehog Series
Sonic the Hedgehog burst onto the scene in 1991 as Sega's speedy new mascot to compete against Nintendo's Mario. With his signature red shoes and "gotta go fast" attitude, Sonic quickly became a popular and iconic character across a wide range of games.
Origins
Sonic was conceived as a new mascot that could rival Mario's appeal. Some key aspects of his creation include:
- Designed by Naoto Ohshima
- Influenced by Felix the Cat, Mickey Mouse
- Purposefully crafted attitude and aesthetics
- Debuted in Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
Main Series
The main numbered entries in the Sonic franchise include:
- Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
- Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992)
- Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (1994)
- Sonic Adventure (1998)
- Sonic Adventure 2 (2001)
These games established Sonic's trademark speedy side-scrolling gameplay along with familiar elements like gold rings and emeralds.
Notable Spin-offs
Notable spin-off titles starring Sonic include:
- Sonic CD (1993)
- Sonic R (1997)
- Sonic Shuffle (2000)
- Sonic Heroes (2003)
- Shadow the Hedgehog (2005)
These games explored different genres beyond Sonic's core side-scrolling roots.
Legacy
With dozens of games over 30+ years, Sonic remains an iconic mascot. His speedy attitude and stylized aesthetic represent Sega's spirit. For Sega fans, Sonic is sure to be a cherished staple series.
Streets of Rage Series
Also known as Bare Knuckle in Japan, the Streets of Rage series is a trilogy of classic side-scrolling beat 'em up games developed by Sega for the Genesis/Mega Drive in the early 1990s.
Gameplay
Core gameplay elements:
- Up to 2 players simultaneously
- Choose from 3-4 playable characters
- Fight through urban streets and environments
- Defeat waves of enemies using punches, kicks, grabs, and special moves
- Battle end-of-level bosses
Weapons like pipes and knives can also be used. Co-op play increases the fun exponentially.
Streets of Rage (1991)
The first entry introduced characters like Axel, Blaze, and Adam as ex-cops taking vigilante justice to the streets. Its grimy urban atmosphere and electronic dance soundtrack were groundbreaking.
Streets of Rage 2 (1992)
Considered the pinnacle of the series, SOR2 refined the combat and music. New characters like Max and Skate joined. Two-player co-op was a blast.
Streets of Rage 3 (1994)
The third game had more complex graphics and new moves, but controversial changes in the Western release. Still a solid entry overall.
Spin-Offs
Notable spin-offs and compilation titles:
- Streets of Rage Remake (fan project)
- Sega Vintage Collection: Streets of Rage
- Sega 3D Classics: Streets of Rage
Legacy
The Streets of Rage series defined Sega beat 'em up action in the 16-bit era. Their gritty style and multiplayer combat still impress today.
Lcnylfjs Retro Game Console Game List
Introduction:
Retro gaming is a popular hobby for many people, and Sega Systems are a big part of that. Whether you're a long-time fan of Sega or just getting started, this ultimate guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Sega Systems and retro gaming.
- History of Sega Systems:
Sega has a long and storied history in the gaming industry, and their systems have played a big part in that. From the Sega Master System to the Sega Genesis, we'll take a look at the history of Sega Systems and how they've evolved over the years.
- Best Sega Games:
One of the best things about Sega Systems is the amazing games that were released for them. From Sonic the Hedgehog to Phantasy Star, we'll take a look at some of the best Sega games of all time and what makes them so great.
- Sega System Buying Guide:
If you're looking to buy a Sega System, there are a lot of options out there. We'll provide you with a comprehensive buying guide that covers everything from the different systems available to the best places to buy them.
- Sega System Maintenance:
If you already own a Sega System, it's important to know how to take care of it. We'll provide you with tips and tricks for maintaining your system so that it lasts for years to come.
- Sega System Emulation:
If you don't have a physical Sega System, emulation is a great way to play your favorite games. We'll take a look at some of the best Sega System emulators available and how to use them.
- Sega System Accessories:
Finally, we'll take a look at some of the best accessories available for Sega Systems. From controllers to memory cards, these accessories can enhance your retro gaming experience and make it even more enjoyable.
Sega Consoles In Order
Sega has released several consoles since the third console generation to the sixth. Here is a list of Sega consoles in order:
- SG-1000 (1983)
- SG-3000 (1983)
- Sega Mark III (1985)
- Sega Master System (1985)
- Sega Genesis/Mega Drive (1988)
- Sega Game Gear (1990)
- Sega CD/Mega CD (1991)
- Sega Pico (1993)
- Sega 32X (1994)
- Sega Saturn (1994)
- Sega Nomad (1995)
- Sega Dreamcast (1998)
- Advanced Pico Beena (2005)
Sega has also released licensed and unlicensed variants of their consoles, and some third-party companies have produced their own versions of Sega consoles.
