Sega Master System
Sega's third-generation 8-bit console, an evolution of the SG-1000 designed to compete with the Nintendo Entertainment System.
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Sega's third-generation 8-bit console, an evolution of the SG-1000 designed to compete with the Nintendo Entertainment System.
At its heart sits a Zilog Z80A processor running at 3.58 MHz, paired with 8 KB of RAM. These are modest figures by modern standards, but they defined what an 8-bit living-room console could do in the mid-eighties. Games were built specifically for this hardware, so there is no emulation involved. You play the original software on the original architecture.
The picture is delivered through RF or composite video output. This makes the console easy to hook up to a classic CRT television, which is arguably the most authentic way to experience its games. On modern flat panels, the analog signal may need an adapter or upscaler. Image quality will depend heavily on the display.
As a home console, the Master System is played in front of the TV with controllers connected to the unit, rather than as a self-contained handheld. There is no battery to worry about, but there is also no portability. It is built to sit beneath the television.
Software comes in two formats: ROM cartridges and Sega Cards, the latter being a slimmer card-based medium. This dual-format approach gives collectors two distinct libraries to hunt down. Because everything runs straight from the media, no installation is required.
Ideal for: retro collectors, Sega fans and anyone who wants to experience 8-bit gaming on original hardware connected to a CRT television, as a historical counterpart to the Nintendo Entertainment System.
- Manufacturer
- Zilog
- Model
- Zilog Z80A
- Frequency
- 3 MHz
- Capacity
- 8 KB
- Video Output
- RF / composite
- Card Support
- ROM cartridge / Sega Card
No platform data
Compatible platforms haven't been added yet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- original 8-bit hardware
- Zilog Z80A CPU
- dual format with ROM cartridges and Sega Card
- easy CRT hookup via RF/composite
- collectible Sega history
Cons
- only 8 KB RAM
- modest 3.58 MHz CPU
- analog RF/composite output only
- may need adapter for modern TVs
- no portability
No compatible accessories found
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