The Sega Genesis Mini: Sega Does What Nintendon’t…Again

The mini retro console seems to be the current trend in gaming. Companies such as Nintendo and Ne Geo have cashed in on this craze and have flooded the market with less than stellar hardware. From botched designs to subpar software choices, major companies have missed the mark when it comes to fan service. But 2019 appears to be the year Sega fans have hoped for. The Sega Genesis mini sets the record straight when it comes to top-notch design combined with excellent gaming choices. This truly is the time for Sega to demonstrate why it competes so heavily with Nintendo and almost won the 16-bit console war of the ’90s. 

The Hardware

One of the fundamental features that stand out in this mini console is the system itself along with the two controllers it’s bundled with. The plastic is high quality and nearly identical to the material used in the original system the controllers to are almost an exact replica, right down to the three-button layout and d-pad control. It is truly a delight to run through some of the platform titles with the sleekness of a tried and true design. Sega spares nothing in recreating the look and feel of their monolithic console. But the greatness of this tiny powerhouse does not end here. 

The Library

One of the true reasons why anyone would buy such a device is for the catalog of titles embedded in its hardware. This is where the system shines brightest. From Castlevania Bloodlines to Shining Force, this Sega release is chock full of masterful first and third-party games. Unlike other retro-clones, such as the PlayStation Classic, this system hits the mark in fan service. Two controllers plus over fourty games to choose from is nothing to scoff at when realizing you get all this for under a hundred dollars. The price tag certainly justifies the integrity of this product and only a handful of games included with this bundle. Overall it’s a great selection of games with more thriller than filler. 

The Subtleties Make The Difference

Another great addition to this bundle is the inclusion of a region format that can be easily selected from the language menu. One can easily play the Japanese version of Strider simply by choosing that language option from the select screen. This by far goes above and beyond anything that was released by Nintendo or Sony with their retro incarnation. Such attention to nuance elevated this Sega mini system to greater heights of near perfection and is an aspect that all should give kudos to this once-dominant game company. One is simply left amazed at the superior ingenuity and intricate display design that crushes all in its wake. A masterclass in innovation and a wonderful gift to fanboys and newcomers alike. This is the quintessential mini retro console for the modern era. 

The Verdict 

In the end, The Sega Genesis Mini provides consumers with everything that other companies should have included with their retro releases. From its great reproduction of original hardware to its vast and diverse assortment of games, this is a great mini system to own in an era dominated by mindless button mashers and annual sports franchises. Even the box it’s packaged in is a work of art, replicating everything from the original genesis back in 1989. Thirty years later, and Sega strikes at the heart of its competition and places a stamp on the minds of gamers across different generations. For those looking for substance and content, this is the vintage hardware to own. Playing through Strider in a visually upscale art style is a visual delight. These games are as relevant as ever, with only a couple of titles feeling a bit dated even with the HD coat of paint. Sega truly realized their dream of doing what Nintendo could not do with this release.