Sega 32X facts for kids
Japanese Sega Saturn, released in November 1994. The 32X was incompatible with Saturn software.
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| Manufacturer | Sega |
|---|---|
| Type | Video game console add-on |
| Generation | Fourth generation |
| Discontinued | September, 1995 |
| Units sold | At least 600,000 |
| Media | Cartridge, CD-ROM with Sega Mega-CD/Sega CD |
| CPU | 2 × SH-2 32-bit RISC (23 MHz) |
| Predecessor | Sega Mega-CD |
The Sega 32X was a special add-on for the Sega Mega Drive video game console. It was first released by Sega in 1994. This device was Sega's first step into the world of 32-bit games. These games offered better graphics and more complex gameplay than older 16-bit systems.
The 32X had different names depending on where it was sold. In Japan, it was called the Sega Super 32X. In North America, it was known as the Sega Genesis 32X. In Europe and Australia, people called it the Sega Mega 32X.
Contents
What Was the Sega 32X?
The Sega 32X was not a full game console on its own. Instead, it was an accessory that plugged into the top of a Sega Mega Drive (or Genesis). It added more power to the console, allowing it to play games with improved graphics and faster action. This was Sega's way of trying to compete with newer, more powerful systems coming out at the time.
How the 32X Worked
The 32X had two special chips inside called Hitachi SH-2 processors. These chips helped the Mega Drive create more detailed visuals and handle more complex game worlds. It also added new colors and special effects that the original Mega Drive could not do alone. To play 32X games, you needed the add-on, a Mega Drive, and a special game cartridge made for the 32X.
Games for the 32X
About 40 games were released for the Sega 32X. Some popular titles included Doom, Virtua Racing Deluxe, and Star Wars Arcade. These games tried to show off the new power of the 32X with better graphics and faster gameplay. However, many games were also available on other systems, which made the 32X less unique.
Why the 32X Was Discontinued
The Sega 32X was stopped being sold in September 1995, less than a year after it came out. There were a few reasons for this. Sega was also working on its next big console, the Sega Saturn, which was a much more powerful 32-bit system. Many people decided to wait for the Saturn instead of buying the 32X add-on. Also, the 32X was an extra cost on top of the Mega Drive, and it needed its own power supply, which made it a bit complicated.
Even though it was not around for long, the Sega 32X is an interesting part of video game history. It shows how companies tried to upgrade older systems before moving on to completely new ones.
Images for kids
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Japanese Sega Saturn, released in November 1994. The 32X was incompatible with Saturn software.
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Twin Hitachi 32-bit SH-2 chips power the 32X
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The 32X version of Doom.
See also
In Spanish: 32X para niños
