Last Updated on January 3, 2020 by Danielle

In celebration of the Genesis’s 30th anniversary, Sega Genesis Mini / Mega Drive Mini set to launch in September with 40 games, varying by region.

Retro gaming is all the rage nowadays – even though Nintendo has ceased production on the NES Classic and SNES Classic, which were both extremely hot sellers and well-received to much fanfare. In fact, they were so hot – prompting the release of the Sony PlayStation Classic last year.

At Sega Fes 2019 in Tokyo, Sega officially announced that it will launch its Sega Genesis Mini / Mega Drive Mini console later this year on September 19th in celebration of the Genesis’s 30th anniversary. The console will be launched as the Sega Genesis Mini in the US, while in Japan it will be marketed as the Mega Drive Mini with a synchronized launch.

Genesis Does What Nintendon’t!

Experience the glory days of gaming with the 16-bit revolution! Remember the infamous and genius Sega marketing slogan from back in the day: “Genesis Does What Nintendon’t!” It all brings back good memories of a wonderful time in gaming. In this blast from the past, watch this hilarious video from the vault touting the ‘Blast Processing’ power of Genesis over Super Nintendo!

Sega Genesis Mini/Mega Drive Mini – What’s Included In The Package?

This revamped mini console bundle will include a miniature Sega Genesis mini console, a pair of 4-button USB controllers, HDMI output cable, a USB to Micro-B power cable, and 40 pre-loaded games, which is very similar to the SNES Classic bundle. In contrast, the Mega Drive Mini will feature a 6-button controller and in addition there will be a bundle with two controllers.

New Features

What’s cool? In addition to being roughly 55-percent smaller than the original, the system will support save states so you can save anywhere and pickup where you left off, making it easier to complete games. While you won’t be able to insert your original Sega Genesis games or controllers, there will be a reset button. The great news is that Sega developer, M2, will now be in charge of development of system software with AtGames no longer involved in its production.

What Games Will Be On Genesis Mini/Mega Drive Mini?

As for the game lineups, they will vary by region. Here’s the current full list of confirmed Genesis Mini games, with more games to be announced later:
• Altered Beast
• Castlevania: Bloodlines
• Comix Zone
• Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine
• Ecco The Dolphin
• Gunstar Heroes
• Shining Force
• Sonic The Hedgehog
• Space Harrier II
• ToeJam & Earl

Here’s the current list of confirmed Mega Drive Mini Games for the Japanese market:
• Castlevania Bloodlines
• Comix Zone
• Gunstar Heroes
• Madou Monogatari Ichi
• Powerball (Wrestleball)
• Puyo Puyo 2
• Rent-a-Hero
• Shining Force
• Sonic The Hedgehog 2
• Space Harrier II

How Much Will The Sega Genesis Mini/Mega Drive Mini Cost?

The Sega Genesis Mini reportedly will sell for $79.99 with 2 controllers and 40 pre-installed games, while the Mega Drive Mini will be offered in two bundles. The Mega Drive with the 6-button controller and games will retail for ¥6,980 ($60) or ¥8,980 ($80) with two controllers.

Where To Buy/Preorder Sega Genesis Mini/Mega Drive Mini?

According to SEGA, pre-orders for both the Sega Genesis Mini and the Mega Drive Mini will be more widely available soon. In fact, Walmart has already begun taking preorders here: https://fave.co/2WwrEq0 . Reserve yours today while supplies last!

So there’s your ‘First Look’ at the Sega Genesis Mini / Mega Drive Mini! What games are you most excited to play? What games would you like to see added to the roster of playable games? Sound off in the comments below. We’d love to hear from our fans!

Source: The Verge