Sega Mega-CD & Sega CD

1990 - 4th generation system

The Sega Mega-CD (also known as Sega CD in North America) is a peripheral for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive video game console. It was released in 1991 and it was the first CD-ROM drive for a video game console. The Sega Mega-CD was designed to expand the capabilities of the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, the CD format offered a greater storage capacity than the cartridges used by the Genesis, which allowed for more detailed graphics, better sound, and longer games. The Mega-CD was also capable of playing audio CDs and had a built-in audio hardware that was capable of playing CD-quality audio. The Sega Mega-CD had a library of around 200 games, which included both original titles and ports of Genesis games. Some popular games for the Mega-CD include: Sonic CD: A platform game featuring Sega's mascot, Sonic the Hedgehog, it featured improved graphics and sound compared to the Genesis version. Lunar: The Silver Star: A RPG game that was well-received for its engaging story and characters Snatcher: A cyberpunk adventure game developed by Hideo Kojima, it was known for its cinematic presentation and mature themes. Popful Mail: A action-RPG game developed by Falcom, it was known for its fast-paced gameplay and colorful graphics. Earthworm Jim: Special Edition: A platform game that was a enhanced version of the Genesis game, featuring improved graphics and sound. Despite the potential of the CD format, the Sega Mega-CD was not as successful as Sega had hoped. It was criticized for its high price, lack of popular games and the limited number of games that took advantage of the system's hardware capabilities. The Mega-CD was also released too late in the life of the Genesis console, which had already been surpassed by more advanced consoles like the Sony PlayStation and the Sega Saturn. Sega eventually discontinued the Mega-CD in 1996. The Sega Mega-CD is now considered a collector's item and is highly sought after by Sega enthusiasts and retro gaming enthusiasts.