Author Archives: Bartman

Final 12 Mega Drive/Genesis Mini Lineup Revealed Including Darius MD and Tetris, Accessories

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It’s the last 10– no wait… 12! Yes, the last 12 games set for the SEGA Genesis Mini and the SEGA Mega Drive Mini in all territories. SEGA has recently showcased on their most recent livestream the remaining games in the collection along with some other tidbits on accessories you can purchase for your miniature system including a carrying case as well as the ability to “dress up” your system in the tower of power with an attachable (non-functioning) SEGA CD and 32X units along with miniature cartridges of Sonic 1 and Sonic & Knuckles (Actual games not included) to your system. The last two games, Darius MD and Tetris appear as special bonus games. Darius’s inclusion is notable in that this conversion was never before produced and the mini system features official support from the Tetris Company to include the ultra rare Mega Drive conversion of SEGA’s Arcade Tetris.

[Source: SEGA of America Twitter, SEGA Mega Drive Mini Livestream]

Click below to reveal the last remaining titles in the line up as well as pictures of the accessories shown during the livestream.

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SEGA’s Fish Life Preserved at Musée Bolo in Switzerland, Publically Released

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The Dreamcast based virtual aquarium, Fish Life, has been given new life thanks to Musée Bolo, the Switzerland based video game museum. Thanks to approval from SEGA of Europe, they have also allowed for the release of the disc images that would run on on the specialized hardware. To help show off the hardware in a broader sense, the museum has also crafted a webpage full of valuable resources that cover this uncommon part of SEGA’s Amusement history.

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PtoPOnline Reveals Climax’s Prototype Footage of Unreleased Crazy Taxi Game

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If you haven’t been following the YouTube channel PtoPOnline run by Andrew Borman, you’re missing out on a channel that shows games that were cancelled, in-development or purely conceptual. As is the case for a video recently uploaded showcasing Climax’s development of a Crazy Taxi game, Crazy Taxi Twenty Four – Seven. The purpose of the video isn’t fully known nor how far the deal between Climax and SEGA proceeded, however the video was likely a demonstration to be shown to SEGA that outlines the general workflow of the game’s development had they decided to proceed with the project. Climax, now known as Climax Studios who are into VR development these days, are more famous for titles such as Sudeki on the original Xbox as well as the developer behind Silent Hill titles such as Silent Hill: Origins and Silent Hill: Shattered Memories.

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Classic Disney Mega Drive Platformer Cold Shadow Returns on Steam and GOG

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Disney threw a surprise today on PC digital download services by bringing back two of their classic platformers today. One being the PSOne/PC adaptation of Disney’s Hercules the other being the PC version of a classic Mega Drive game starring private investigator with a secret ninja alter ego, Maui Mallard played by Donald Duck. Or just Donald Duck. Whatever you call him in your region, Maui Mallard in Cold Shadow a.k.a. Donald in Maui Mallard returns on Steam and GOG.

The PC version, built off of the original Mega Drive/Genesis version, was enhanced with increased sound quality including Michael Giacchino’s soundtrack presented in CD redbook audio. Trying to run the PC version as-is today from an original copy will be impossible without the use of Virtual Machines as this version was made for Windows 95 before graphics libraries such as Direct X existed. Luckily this digital release has been reworked to run on modern Windows operating systems and plays exactly as it did back in 1995.

It joins Disney’s previous efforts to re-release it’s catalog from 3 years ago. This release is especially great for those in the US as the NTSC version of Cold Shadow never saw release on the Genesis due to a console exclusivity deal with Nintendo at the time.

Download it today on Steam or GOG.Com.

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Review: ToeJam and Earl Back in the Groove

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Disclaimer: The author of the review is a Kickstarter Backer and received a copy of the PC version through the campaign. A Nintendo Switch review copy was also provided by the via the game’s PR team.

ToeJam and Earl have returned during a time that could not be more appropriate for not only SEGA fanatics but also for the roguelite genre’s recent surge in popularity with ToeJam and Earl Back in the Groove. The game serves as a return of the adventure-like aspect from first game, serving as an all-star tribute to the history of the franchise and provides a strong artful representation of the culture with it’s cast of characters and musical appreciation. Starting as a Kickstarter project in 2015 this allowed the developers to stick closer to the first game without having to bend to publisher direction and create the long awaited follow-up to the original ToeJam and Earl. Despite the long development time, having to shave off a few goals, (Sorry Wii U) and going through two publishers, the game succeeds bringing the first game’s roguelike experience up to date with bigger multiplayer opportunities while struggling with performance issues on consoles.

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Analogue Mega SG to Include Unreleased Title Ultracore from Battlefield Developers

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Analogue’s FPGA Mega Drive/Genesis console, the Mega Sg is giving would be owners an additional bonus built into the console. A pack in title! Hardcore, a side-scrolling shooter in the vein of other European shooters such as the Turrican series, was developed by Digital Illusions who have since changed their name to DICE. (Who went on to become famous for the Battlefield series.) Due to the impending arrival of disc based consoles in 1994, the publisher of the game, Psygnosis decided to cancel the title despite being slated for release on Amiga, Mega Drive, Genesis and SEGA CD, with the Mega Drive/Genesis version being nearly ready for shipment. However due to legal issues, Analogue states on their website the game will be renamed to Ultracore. The game content will remain the same.

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Retro Fighters Launches Pre-Orders and Kickstarter for SEGA Controllers

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The modern retro accessory manufacturer Retro Fighters famous for the Brawler 64, a modern two-prong controller for the Nintendo 64 previously funded through Kickstarter, are now looking to release controllers for Mega Drive, Genesis and Saturn for pre-order as well as looking for funds for their Dreamcast controller via Kickstarter.

Featured on their website is the 2 in 1 controller designed for use on Mega Drive/Genesis and Saturn platforms named the BrawlerGen. Featuring six face buttons and an analog control stick supporting all platforms, a ‘Mode’ button for supported Mega Drive and Genesis games and two shoulder buttons for Saturn. The two handed design mimics the ergonomic form seen in modern controllers while supporting features necessary for all platforms. Bypassing crowdfunding, the controller is available with an MSRP of $39.99 for pre-order on their website with a launch date set for the 10th of June this year.

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Analogue FPGA Mega Sg Console and 8bitdo M30 Controller Available for Pre-Order

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Analogue, makers of the FPGA based Analogue NT, NT Mini and Super NT consoles have finally gone SEGA with their latest announcement of the Mega Sg. The Mega Sg touts region-free compatibility with SEGA Genesis, Mega Drive and Master System cartridges and comes in four different color sets. (Master System games will work with an included adapter.) In addition the system will also feature an edge connector to allow for compatibility with all SEGA CD and Mega CD add-ons. Just like the other Analogue systems before it, it will feature games running up to 1080p via HDMI only with a wealth of features for any kind of owner. Pre-order prices are set at $189USD and will ship April of 2019 and are available only through Analogue’s store. The Mega Sg will also support several other adapters that provide compatibility with SEGA’s other consoles including the SG-1000 and the Game Gear that will be made available later in 2019.

In addition 8bitdo is launching the M30, a bluetooth controller that comes with a receiver that works on all SEGA Genesis and Mega Drive consoles. These are likely to work like their other bluetooth controllers and receivers which allows for compatibility with a wealth of consoles, mobile devices and more. These are also available for pre-order on Amazon for $24.99USD with discounts offered on those who pre-order with the Mega Sg.

This is exciting for those who are looking for a Mega Drive that supports the most compatibility with a large library of games. Unlike other clone consoles on the market, the FPGA based console is thanks to the work provided by Kevtris who has also supported Analogue’s previous consoles which means the system will receive better support for game compatibility. Unlike other consoles that make use of cheaper hardware or emulation that abuses licensing from homebrew developers the system will allow for updates and support at a faster pace and will be more accurate. You can find more information on the Mega Sg hardware and it’s specifications on their website.

[Source: Analogue]

[Pre-Order: Analogue Mega Sg, 8bitdo M30]

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SEGAbits at E3 2018: Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom Hands-On Preview

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The Wonder Boy series creator, Ryuichi Nishizawa, returns for an all new heavily inspired 2D platformer title, Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom. Co-developed by France based Game Atelier and Germany based publisher FDG Entertainment, the gameplay is largely the same and bears a striking similarity to Wonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap. Two demo levels were available to play allowing you to play as Monster Boy or as a transformed anthropomorphic creature. I played through the latter. You can hit the jump to read on, check out the image gallery and hit up links for the trailer.

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GDC Vault Offers the Sonic the Hedgehog Postmortem For Free Viewing

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If you’re like me who wasn’t able to visit GDC this year and are hoping to find a way to watch the GDC talk on Sonic the Hedgehog. You’re in luck as GDC has begun uploading this year’s panels, along with the Sonic GDC panel, onto their website the GDC Vault. The video has been made available for free viewing on their website and may even appear on their YouTube channel. Currently the GDC Vault does not allow video embed, so you’ll have to go over to their site by clicking one of the many convenient links like this one here.

In case you missed it, Naoto Oshima and Hirokazu Yasuhara hosted a panel talking about their perspective on the creation of the character, what made him stand out as well as the game design and art direction that brought us the Mega Drive/Genesis title. Previously we were only given a glimpse thanks to the efforts of Frank Cifaldi on Twitter. Now we are able to witness more with an edited video that presents the two speakers along with their slides for easy viewing. The Q&A session follows after the panel, plus a bonus speed drawing from both Oshima and Yasuhara.

The GDC Vault is home to plenty of talks that range from game development tactics, to important topics and postmortems of other games. Some panels will require a paid subscription for viewing. You can watch the Sonic panel or other panels from this year’s conference here.

[Source: GDC Vault]

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Wii Shop Channel Guide for SEGA Fans – Backups, WiiWare, Noteworthy Titles

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There’s only one day left before Nintendo pulls the plug on point purchases on the original Wii Shop on March 26th. We’ve already covered titles on the Mega Drive, Genesis, Master System and Arcade systems. What’s left on the service for the SEGA fan? We’ve still got a couple of WiiWare games to check out, some alternative versions to Wonder Boy games, and games from fan-favorite SEGA developers Atlus, Hudson and Treasure that appeared on non-SEGA platforms. Also we’ll be taking a look at options to back up your games once the store goes down for good. You can expect to see associated SEGA Retro articles to check out box and manual scans as well as additional information on each game in the list below. This is also a good time to let you all know about another one of our sister sites, NEC Retro which includes coverage of PC Engine and Turbo Grafx-16 games if you have not seen it before!

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Wii Shop Channel Guide for SEGA Fans – Screen Setup, Master System & Arcade

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We are still a little under a month before Nintendo disables the ability to add funds to your Wii Shop credit to their aging Shop Channel up to the ultimate shut down in January of next year. This guide will cover the must-haves of the SEGA Master System and SEGA-related Virtual Console Arcade titles. While both haven’t received nearly as many Genesis or Mega Drive titles SEGA put out some notable releases you can’t get anywhere else. In addition we’ll be checking out screen setups for those who want the ultimate retro gaming setup to those who can’t break away from their modern HD setups. The Wii provides solutions that will work for everyone who has an interest in SEGA’s vintage lineup.

All screenshots are captured on real Wii U hardware outputting at 720p downscaled to 480p. You’ll also find Sonic Retro and SEGA Retro articles to check out for additional information as well as box art and manual scans you don’t get to see in these re-releases.

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Wii Shop Channel Guide for SEGA Fans – Controller Adapters, Mega Drive & Genesis

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wii shop

The Wii Shop Channel is beginning it’s operations to shut down the service on the 30th of January in 2019. Nintendo put out a reminder that the service will prevent you from being able to add points to purchase games from their service March 26th.

Not only will you be unable to redownload games you purchased from the service after the shutdown date, this will take away several games that include titles that are very difficult to find in the after market. Leading up to the closure of the service we will be posting articles featuring games that SEGA fans will want to keep their eyes on. SEGA has been a major supporter for the service since the beginning of Nintendo’s foray into the digital market. Starting off with titles from the Mega Drive and the Genesis, the service grew to provide cult favorites, rare and valuable titles and even imports from Japan. There are also a few WiiWare titles to consider, exclusive games that were hampered by small file size limits for developers and lack of advertising. We won’t exactly be recommending recommend Sonic 4 Episode 1, but it is worth mentioning since it will no longer be on sale.

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Traveller’s Tales Founder Uncovers Sonic R, Mickey Mania 2 Prototypes

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Game developers are rarely able to showcase their efforts in video game preservation. Publisher and developer regulations may prohibit this material be preserved for future generations to learn and understand from to avoid competition and protect resources. In a rare opportunity developers may uncover unreleased materials they held in their personal collection. Some recent examples include prototypes of games such as the Super Nintendo version of Rayman discovered by series creator Michel Ancel or Twelve Tales Conker 64 dug up from Rare’s archives. Recently Traveller’s Tales founder, Jon Burton, has pulled out pitch videos and prototypes of his company’s earlier efforts on his YouTube channel GameHut. The most recent videos at the time of this writing the first known prototype of Sonic R for SEGA Saturn shown off to SEGA as well as prototype footage of Mickey Mania 2 running on Mega Drive hardware.

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New Persona Q, Dancing All Night Games Announced

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Bet you never see this coming. Atlus and SEGA are pushing hard after the success of Persona 5 by bringing back two of it’s spinoff franchises. Just announced today is Persona Q2  for Nintendo 3DS and Persona 5 Dancing Star Night for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita. But wait! Without having to play catch up, Atlus also announced Persona 3 Dancing Moon Night for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita. All three titles have special websites open but the only information shown are the target platforms and release windows slated for the dancing titles in Spring of 2018. That’s three new Persona titles and equally surprising are two new PlayStation Vita titles that will release next year.

The Persona Q series is developed by the same team responsible for the Etrian Odyseey series that focuses on dungeon crawling and a super deformed art style with the first game focusing on Persona 3 and Persona 4 characters. Meanwhile the previous Dancing title played similar to the Hatsune Miku music rhythm series of games and focused only on Persona 4.

More information on these titles as more news develops. You can check out trailers for the two dancing games after the jump.

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