As I contemplated parting ways with my neglected console games, Hyperkin, a Los Angeles-based retro game console manufacturer, unveiled a captivating reason to hold onto those classics. Enter the ‘Mega 95,’ a handheld console still in its prototype stage but already igniting excitement among retro gaming enthusiasts. This device allows players to resurrect the golden era of Sega Genesis and Mega Drive cartridges, presenting a mouthwatering prospect for fans of the iconic gaming platforms.
Though currently a prototype, the Mega 95 beckons a return to battling Robotnik on the formidable Death Egg in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, reminiscent of my scrawny, dotty-faced teenage days spent at friends’ houses. Unlike the gaming devices of yore, this console offers far more functionality, making it a Sega fan’s dream. Anticipated features include the ability to directly insert original Sega game cartridges into the top of the chassis, providing dual functionality for gameplay on the console itself or connecting to any display.
The Mega 95 boasts a familiar handheld design, featuring a D-pad on one side and action keys on the other. While its controls may not be detachable like the Nintendo Switch, it compensates with a 5-inch screen that can switch between classic 4:3 and expanded 16:9 aspect ratios at the touch of a button. The console’s connectivity surpasses Hyperkin’s previous SupaBoy line, thanks to a Type-C display dock that enables HD output (720p) to a TV or monitor via an HD cable.
Although official release dates and pricing details remain elusive, Hyperkin’s announcement at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) hints at a promising timeline. The showcased prototype design, reminiscent of the classic Sega Genesis Nomad console, adds to the anticipation. While the wait for a retail version may be challenging, it offers the perfect opportunity to scour flea markets and car boot sales for vintage Sega cartridges.
