Genesis with 32X (USA, NTSC) - MAME machine

Console published 30 years ago:

Sega Genesis 32X © 1994 Sega of America, Inc.

The Sega Genesis 32X is an add-on for the Sega Genesis video game console. Codenamed 'Project Mars', the 32X was designed to expand the power of the Genesis and serve as a transitional console into the 32-bit era until the later release of the Sega Saturn. Independent of the Genesis, the 32X utilizes its own ROM cartridges and has its own library of games.

TECHNICAL
Model No. MK-84000A

CPU: 2 x SH-2 32-bit RISC (23 MHz)
Memory: 2Mbit RAM
Display: 320 x 240 resolution, 32768 on-screen colors.
Dimensions: 110 x 210 x 100 mm (4.3 x 8.3 x 3.9 in).
Weight: 495 g. (17.5 oz)

TRIVIA
Unveiled at June 1994's Consumer Electronics Show, Sega presented the 32X as a low-cost option for consumers looking to play 32-bit games. Developed in response to the Atari Jaguar and concerns that the Saturn would not make it to market by the end of 1994, the product was originally conceived as an entirely new console. At the suggestion of Sega of America executive Joe Miller and his team, the console was converted into an add-on to the existing Genesis and made more powerful. The final design contained two 32-bit central processing unit chips and a 3-D graphics processor. In order to bring the new add-on to market by its scheduled release date of November 21, 1994, development of the new system and its games were rushed.

Ultimately, the console failed to attract third-party video game developers and sufficient consumers due to the announcement of the Sega Saturn's simultaneous release in Japan. Sega's efforts to rush the 32X to market cut into available time for game development, resulting in a weak library of forty titles that could not fully utilize the add-on's hardware, including Genesis ports. By the end of 1994, the 32X had sold 665,000 units. After price reductions in 1995, it was officially discontinued in 1996 as Sega turned their focus toward the Saturn.

Export releases:
[JP] "Super 32X [Model HMA-2400]"
[EU] "Sega Mega Drive 32X [Model MK-84200-50]"

CONTRIBUTE
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