Published on January 29, 2021
Updated on March 17, 2024

All SEGA Consoles Ever Released (1983-2024)

Reflecting on the chronological release of all SEGA consoles, it is intriguing to ponder how this legendary company encountered a tragic fate. During the fourth generation of consoles, SEGA seemed to reign supreme, bolstered by an impressive library of games and exceptional arcade ports of classic titles. However, the sixth generation of consoles did not yield the anticipated prosperity that SEGA had envisioned, leading to challenging times for the company.

In its prime, Sega engaged in a direct rivalry with Nintendo, employing every possible means to captivate customers and promote their SEGA-related products. One of the most notable strategies was the creation of numerous promotional advertisements that humorously taunted Nintendo. These marketing gems, known for their wit and charm, continue to evoke laughter and amusement even in the contemporary era.

Following the unfortunate downfall of the Dreamcast, SEGA has left a remarkable legacy that remains accessible for all to reminisce about. Despite the company’s shift towards software development, there is a persistent hope among fans that SEGA will someday stage a triumphant return to the hardware business. With that being said, let us explore all SEGA consoles and handhelds released throughout the years.

How many SEGA consoles are there? SEGA developed 8 consoles (without counting the re-branded consoles). And how many SEGA handhelds are there? SEGA developed 3 handhelds.

Table of Contents

SEGA Consoles

Every SEGA Console released

SEGA SG-1000 (1983)

CPU: NEC 780C (based on Zilog Z80A)
GPU:  Texas Instruments TMS9918A
Memory: 17 KB of RAM
Storage: ROM cartridge, Compact Cassette
Optical Drive: ROM cartridge,
Video Output: RGB SCART cable
Resolution: 256×192 pixels
Audio: Texas Instruments SN76489A

Release Date:  July 15, 1983 (JP-AU)
Region: Japan, Australia
Code Name: Unknown
Generation: Third Generation
Status: Discontinued, 1984
Release Price: $143.99 (15.000 Yen)
Units Sold: 160,000
Best-selling Game: James Bond 007

SEGA made its debut in the gaming industry with the launch of the SEGA SG-1000. Released on July 15, 1983, in Japan, Australia and several European territories, it entered the market during the same period as the release of Nintendo’s Famicom. The SG-1000 came equipped with a range of technologically advanced features, highlighting SEGA’s dedication to innovation in gaming.

This particular was launched in various forms, one of which was the home computer-based SC-3000. Additionally, two other iterations of the SEGA SG-1000 were introduced, each building upon the technical capabilities of its predecessors.

Despite its technical advancements, the SG-1000 couldn’t hold a candle to the NES, and SEGA found the need to change its strategy with the launch of the Master System.

SEGA SG-1000 II (1984)

The SEGA SG-1000 II serves as an updated model of the original SG-1000 console released on July 31, 1984, in Japan and Taiwan. While sharing many similarities with its predecessor, the SG-1000 II stood out with its hardwired joystick controller, and an additional port was provided for an optional extra controller. Moreover, the console featured two detachable joypad controllers, offering enhanced control options.

SEGA Mark III (1985)

The SEGA Mark III serves as the successor to the SEGA SG-II and was the company’s final endeavour to create a worthy competitor to the Famicom system. It made its debut on October 10, 1985, in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Unlike the original SEGA SG-1000, the Mark III remained exclusive to the Asian market, marking a strategic focus on that region.

SEGA Master System (1985)

CPU: Zilog Z80A @ 4 MHz
GPU: Sega VDP
Memory: 8 kB RAM, 16 kB VRAM
Storage: ROM cartridge, Sega Card
Optical Drive: ROM cartridge, Sega Card
Video Output: RGB SCART cable
Resolution: 256 × 192 resolution
Audio: Yamaha VDP PSG

Release Date:  October 20, 1985 (JP)
Region:Japan, North America, Europe
Code Name: Unknown
Generation: Third Generation
Status: Discontinued, 1989
Release Price: $200
Units Sold: 13 million
Best-selling Game: Unknown

Upon the release of the Master System, SEGA recognized the necessity for another console to compete effectively against Nintendo. The Master System, being the successor to the SEGA SG-1000 series, especially the Mark III, emerged as the optimal choice.

While the Master System demonstrated technical superiority over its rival, the NES, it faced a significant drawback due to the lack of captivating exclusives. As a result, many gamers considered owning the Master System a secondary option rather than their first preference.

In contrast to the SG-1000 line of series, which had limited availability in specific territories, the Sega Master System enjoyed a global release. The console’s reach extended even to regions such as Brazil and Russia, showcasing SEGA’s commitment to expanding its market presence and catering to gamers worldwide.

While the Sega Master System enjoyed lucrative success in Brazil and Europe, it faced challenges in establishing a foothold in both the Japanese and North American markets. Nintendo’s fierce dominance in these regions made it difficult for the Master System to gain significant traction and compete effectively.

SEGA Genesis / Mega Drive (1988)

CPU: Zilog Z80 @ 3.58 MHz
GPU: VDP (Video Display Processor)
Memory: 72 kB of main RAM
Storage: ROM cartridge
Optical Drive: ROM cartridge
Video Output: RGB SCART cable
Resolution: 320×240,
Audio: Yamaha YM2612

Release Date: October 29, 1988 (JP)
Region:Japan, North America, Europe
Code Name: Neptune
Generation: Fourth
Status: Discontinued, 1997
Release Price: $189.99
Units Sold: 40 million
Best-selling Game: Sonic the Hedgehog

The Sega Genesis marked the beginning of the legendary 16-bit console wars, an era that witnessed SEGA standing tall in direct competition against the gaming giant Nintendo, even managing to ruffle a few feathers along the way.

Serving as the successor to the Master System, the Sega Genesis proved to be one of the best SEGA consoles ever produced. Its memorable library of games and intense rivalry with Nintendo cemented its position as a beloved and iconic gaming system in the hearts of many players.

Although the Sega Genesis faced financial challenges in Japan, where it struggled to outperform the SNES and the PC Engine, it experienced considerable success in North America and Europe. This achievement was attributed to its potent marketing campaign and a lineup of superb exclusives, such as Sonic The Hedgehog and Shinobi™

SEGA CD (1991)

CPU: Motorola 68000 @ 12.5 MHz
GPU: Sega 315-5548 Custom ASIC
Memory: 64 kbit internal RAM
Storage: 500 MB CD-ROM discs
Optical Drive: CD-ROM, CD+G
Video Output: RGB SCART cable
Resolution: 320 x 224 pixels
Audio: Ricoh RF5C164

Release Date: December 12, 1991 (JP)
Region: Japan, North America, Europe
Code Name: Unknown
Generation: Fourth
Status: Discontinued, 1996
Release Price: $299.
Units Sold: 2.24 million
Best-selling Game: Sonic CD

The Sega CD, known as the Mega-CD outside of North America, functioned as an expansion accessory for the Mega Drive/Genesis gaming system. This situation paralleled the scenario with the 32X add-on. Notably, the Sega CD could accommodate CD-based games and introduced hardware improvements, including an upgraded central processing unit and graphical enhancements such as sprite scaling and rotation.

During its era, one of the standout advantages of owning the Mega-CD was its substantial storage capacity. This feature enabled games to expand to almost 320 times the size of traditional Genesis cartridges.

The Sega CD achieved sales of 2.24 million units and gained acclaim for its supplementary capabilities and notable games like Sonic CD. Nevertheless, it wasn’t immune to the challenges faced by its predecessors. The console faced significant criticism due to its high price tag during that time and the limited diversity of supported games.

SEGA Pico (1993)

CPU: 16/32-bit Motorola 68000.
GPU: Sega 32X VDP @ 23.01136 MHz
Memory: 64 KB of Main RAM.
Storage: Storyware cartridges of various sizes
Optical Drive: ROM cartridge
Video Output: Unknown
Resolution: 256×224, 640×480 (SD)
Audio: Texas Instruments SN76489 PSG

Release Date: June 26, 1993 (JP)
Region: Japan, North America, Europe, South Korea
Code Name: Unknown
Generation: Fourth
Status: Discontinued, 1998
Release Price: $139
Units Sold: 3.4 million
Best-selling Game: Unknown

The Sega Pico, also recognized as the Kids Computer Pico, stands out as an educational gaming console developed by Sega Toys. Its primary objective revolves around engaging a youthful audience, particularly children aged between 3 and 7 years old.

Remarkably, the console achieved an unexpected level of success, tallying sales of 3.4 million units alongside 11.2 million game cartridges. Despite this accomplishment, the console’s production was halted five years after its initial launch. Nonetheless, Sega introduced the Advanced Pico Beena exclusively within the Japanese market in 2005, positioning it as a successor to its predecessor.

SEGA Genesis 32X (1994)

Sega 32X Model 2

CPU: Twin Hitachi SH-2
GPU: Sega 32X VDP @ 23.01136 MHz
Memory: 256 KB RAM, 256 KB VRAM
Storage: Internal RAM, cartridge
Optical Drive: ROM cartridge
Video Output: RGB SCART cable
Resolution: 320×448
Audio: QSound PWM @ 23.01136 MHz

Release Date: November 21, 1994
Region:Japan, North America, Europe
Code Name: Mars
Generation: Fifth
Status: Discontinued, 1996
Release Price: $159.99
Units Sold: 800,000
Best-selling Game: Sonic the Hedgehog

The 32X emerged as an expansion console for the Sega Genesis (known as the Mega Drive in the EU), geared towards augmenting the capabilities of its precursor. The moniker “32X” reflects its intention to transition into the 32-bit gaming era. Operating on separate ROM cartridges, it boasts an exclusive collection of games. This accessory was marketed as the Super 32X in Japan, Genesis 32X in North America, Mega Drive 32X in the PAL region, and Mega 32X in Brazil.

Much like the Sega Saturn, the 32X faced challenges in attracting both third-party developers and consumer interest. This predicament arose due to the simultaneous announcement of the Saturn’s impending launch in Japan. Compounding these difficulties were issues of mismanagement and hasty decisions on Sega’s part, culminating in a sparse game library that failed to harness the full potential of the hardware.

Ultimately, the 32X suffered the same fate as its beleaguered sibling, the Sega Saturn. Despite its affordability, reasonable pricing, and intriguing features for its time, the 32X was not immune to the critical reception it received. It ultimately found itself deemed a failure, mirroring the difficulties encountered by the Sega Saturn.

SEGA Saturn (1994)

CPU: 2× Hitachi SH-2 @ 28.6 MHz
GPU: VDP1 & VDP2 video display processors
Memory: 2 MB RAM, 1.5 MB VRAM
Storage: Internal RAM, cartridge
Optical Drive: CD-ROM, CD+G, CD+EG, Video CD, Mini CD
Video Output: RCA / composite / RGB Scart / S-Video
Resolution: 320×224 to 704×480
Audio: Yamaha YMF292

Release Date: November 22, 1994 (JP)
Region:Japan, North America, Europe
Code Name: Saturn
Generation: Fifth
Status: Discontinued, 1998
Release Price: $399
Units Sold: 9.26 million
Best-selling Game: Madden NFL 97

The Sega Saturn belongs to the fifth generation of video game consoles and stands as the follow-up to the well-received Sega Genesis (known as the Mega Drive in the EU). In contrast to the Dreamcast, the Sega Saturn bore a hefty price tag, making it a substantial investment for consumers. This premium cost was primarily attributed to the Saturn’s notable technical advancements during its time.

The Sega Saturn was distinguished by its dual-CPU architecture and an impressive assembly of eight processors. Games for this console were presented in CD-ROM format, offering a diverse selection ranging from ports of arcade classics to original titles. Notable among these were titles like The House of the Dead, Burning Rangers, Nights into Dreams, Tomb Raider, and Deep Fear.

Upon its debut, the Sega Saturn gained traction in Japan; however, it failed to replicate this success within the United States. This shortcoming can be largely attributed to issues within Sega’s management, as well as the unexpected entry of Sony’s PlayStation and Nintendo 64. Following the launch of these competing consoles, the Saturn’s popularity took a swift downturn, ultimately leading to its discontinuation in 1998. In the wake of this setback, Sega turned its attention to developing the Dreamcast, which would eventually supersede the Sega Saturn.

SEGA Dreamcast (1998)

CPU: Hitachi SH-4 32-bit RISC @ 200 MHz
GPU: 100 MHz PowerVR2, integrated with the system’s ASIC
Memory: 16 MB RAM, 8 MB video RAM
Storage: VMU 128 kbyte memory card
Optical Drive: 1.2GB GD-ROM, 12x access speed
Video Output: RCA / VGA / RGB Scart / S-Video
Resolution: 640×480 pixels
Audio: 67 MHz Yamaha AICA with 32-bit ARM7 RISC CPU core, 64 channels

Release Date: November 27, 1998 (JP)
Region:Japan, North America, Europe
Code Name: White Belt (Katana, Guppy)
Generation: Sixth
Status: Discontinued, March 31, 2001
Release Price: $199
Units Sold: 9.13 million
Best-selling Game: Sonic Adventure

The Dreamcast marked Sega’s final entry into the video game console arena, signifying the culmination of their eighteen-year involvement in the console business. It also represented Sega’s last-ditch attempt to recover from the setback of the Sega Saturn’s failure. Regrettably, this endeavour proved short-lived, as Sony’s PlayStation 2 emerged on the scene and extinguished any remaining glimmers of optimism for Sega.

The Dreamcast’s significance lay in its being remarkably ahead of its time. It secured a pivotal position as the pioneer in integrating a modular modem, fostering Internet support and online gameplay—a pioneering move among gaming consoles. This groundbreaking attribute enabled players to engage in online gaming experiences through the internet or cooperative modes.

Despite its relatively brief existence and somewhat constrained third-party support, the Dreamcast garnered praise for its distinctive offerings. It often earned accolades for being a futuristic console with titles that many considered ambitious, entertaining, and unforgettable. Among these noteworthy games were classics like Crazy Taxi, Shenmue, Jet Set Radio, Maken X, and Phantasy Star Online. Today, the Dreamcast is considered one of the best Sega consoles.

SEGA Advanced Pico Beena (2005)

CPU: ARM7TDMI clocked at 81MHz
GPU: Not Specified
Memory: 64 KB of Main RAM.
Storage: “Storyware” cartridges of various sizes
Optical Drive: Not Specified
Video Output: RCA / composite
Resolution: 256×224, 640×480 (SD)
Audio: Texas Instruments SN76489 PSG

Release Date: August 6, 2005 (JP)
Region: Japan-Only
Code Name: Unknown
Generation: Sixth
Status: Discontinued, 2011
Release Price: $139
Units Sold: 3.4 million
Best-selling Game: Unknown

The Advanced Pico Beena, or simply known as Beena or BeenaLite, is the successor to the original Sega Pico released in 1993. The latter wasn’t made for hardcore gamers. In fact, it is an educational console system targeted at young kids. The console was marketed and sold by Sega Toys back in 2005.

The focus of the Advanced Pico Beena, according to Sega Toys, is on learning in a new social environment and sharing educational topics. Basically, it’s for children. Now while the console wasn’t officially discontinued, it stopped receiving new games. It could be because the console was released exclusively in Japan, unlike the original Pico console.

SEGA Handhelds

All SEGA Handhelds released

SEGA Game Gear (1990)

CPU: Zilog Z80 @ 3.5 MHz
GPU: Sega 32X VDP @ 23.01136 MHz
Memory: 24 KB of main RAM
Storage: ROM cartridge
Optical Drive: ROM cartridge
Video Output: 3.2-square inch backlit screen
Resolution: 160 x 144 pixels
Audio: Texas Instruments SN76489

Release Date: October 6, 1990 (JP)
Region: Europe, Japan, North America
Code Name: Mercury
Generation: Fourth
Status: Discontinued, 1997
Release Price: $149
Units Sold: 10.62 million
Best-selling Game: Sonic Dash

The primary objective of the Game Gear was to directly challenge Nintendo’s Game Boy during its era. While the Game Boy was an 8-bit handheld console that could also play Master System games through an adapter, the Game Gear aimed to outshine it in terms of technical capabilities.

From a technical standpoint, the Game Gear boasted significantly superior specifications compared to Nintendo’s Game Boy. Nevertheless, this advantage came at the cost of shorter battery life. The Game Gear demanded more frequent battery replacements or recharges due to its power-hungry nature, whereas the Game Boy managed to sustain longer play sessions.

Ultimately, despite its technical prowess, Sega’s Game Gear struggled to surpass the widespread popularity of the Game Boy. Sales figures reflected this discrepancy, with the Game Gear selling a modest 10.62 million units, paling in comparison to the remarkable 118.69 million units achieved by the Game Boy.

SEGA Mega Jet (1994)

CPU: 16-bit Motorola 68000 at 7.61MHz
GPU: VDP (Video Display Processor)
Memory: 64 KB of Main RAM.
Storage: ROM Cartridge
Optical Drive: ROM Cartridge
Video Output: LCD Backlit Screen
Resolution: 320×224 pixels
Audio: Texas Instruments PSG

Release Date: March 10, 1994 (JP)

Region: Japan-only
Code Name: Unknown
Generation: Fourth
Status: Discontinued, around 1999
Release Price: $123
Units Sold: Unknown
Best-selling Game: Unknown

This particular iteration represents another portable version of the Sega Genesis (known as the Mega Drive in Europe). Notably, this version was exclusively launched in Japan and specifically provided for rental on Japan Airlines flights.

Distinguishing itself from the Sega Nomad, the Mega Jet did not feature an integrated screen. Nevertheless, it had the capability to run Genesis games when connected to compact armrest monitors utilized on JAL flights. The handheld device arrived with a selection of four games, including titles like Sonic the Hedgehog and Super Monaco GP, designed for in-flight entertainment. Furthermore, since the device was compatible with Mega Drive cartridges, passengers were granted the freedom to bring along their own cartridges to enjoy.

The extent of the Mega Jet’s success remains undisclosed, leaving uncertainty about its performance as a venture. However, its concept alone eventually laid the foundation for the Sega Nomad, which notably included a backlit screen—unlike the Mega Jet.

SEGA Genesis Nomad (1995)

CPU: Motorola 68000
GPU: Not Specified
Memory: 64 KB of Main RAM.
Storage: ROM cartridge
Optical Drive: Not Specified
Video Output: 3.25-inch backlit color screen
Resolution: 320x224d (NTSC)
Audio: Mono speaker Headphone jack

Release Date: October 1995 (NA)

Region: North America-Only
Code Name: Venus
Generation: Fourth
Status: Discontinued, 199
Release Price: $180
Units Sold: 1 million units
Best-selling Game: Sonic the Hedgehog 2

The Genesis Nomad, also recognized as the Sega Nomad, stood as one of the premier 16-bit handheld gaming consoles of its time. Regrettably, this remarkable device had an exclusive release in North America. Less known is the fact that this console is essentially a portable iteration of the Sega Genesis, capable of seamlessly playing any Sega Genesis game.

While the primary purpose of the Genesis Nomad was to offer on-the-go gameplay for Genesis titles, it also featured the innovation of connecting to a television through a video port. Unfortunately, this handheld marked Sega’s final foray into the handheld gaming market.

Despite managing to sell 1 million units, the Genesis Nomad faced the label of a commercial disappointment. Sega’s concentrated efforts on promoting the Sega Saturn led to the lack of robust support for this handheld. Additionally, the device suffered from compatibility issues with several Genesis peripherals, including the 32X, Power Base Converter, and the Sega CD. Despite these setbacks, the console did earn accolades for its impressive technical specifications and the distinction of being the first genuine 16-bit handheld gaming system.

SEGA Micro-Consoles

All SEGA micro and mini consoles

SEGA Genesis Mini (2019)

CPU: ARM7TDMI clocked at 81MHz
GPU: Not Specified
Memory: 256 MB of RAM
Storage: 512 MB flash memory
Optical Drive: Internal flash memory
Video Output: HDMI
Resolution: from 720p to 4K
Audio: Yamaha YM2612

Release Date: September 19, 2019 (WW)
Region: WW
Code Name: Moon
Generation: Fourth
Status: Active
Release Price: $79.99
Units Sold: 30 million units
Best-selling Game: Unknown

The Sega Genesis Mini, known as Mega Drive Mini, is Sega’s answer to the SNES Classic Edition by Nintendo. This particular is a tiny model of the original Sega Genesis, and it comes packed with over 42 games. Some of the most notable games are:

  1. Castlevania: Bloodlines
  2. Shining Force
  3. World of Illusion
  4. Comix Zone
  5. Contra: Hard Corps

The Sega Genesis Mini achieved significant success, boasting sales surpassing 30 million units on a global scale. With this impressive accomplishment, there is a shared anticipation that Sega might contemplate the creation of either a Sega Saturn Mini or a Dreamcast Mini, capitalizing on this remarkable triumph.

SEGA Game Gear Micro (2020)

CPU: ARM7TDMI clocked at 81MHz
GPU: Not Specified
Memory: 24 KB of main RAM
Storage: Packed with 4 games
Optical Drive: Internal flash memory
Video Output: LCD Screen
Resolution: unknown
Audio: Headphone Jack

Release Date: October 6, 2020 (JP)
Region: Japan-Only
Code Name: Mercury
Generation: Fourth
Status: Active
Release Price: $50
Units Sold: Unknown for now
Best-selling Game: Unknown

On June 3, 2020, as part of its 60th-anniversary celebration, Sega unveiled the Game Gear Micro. This unique handheld release was limited exclusively to Japan and represents a miniature rendition of the original Game Gear.

The Game Gear Micro arrived in four distinct versions, differing primarily in colour and the assortment of games included. These variants were Blue, Red, Yellow, and Black. Notably, each unit contained its own selection of four separate Game Gear games. While the differences between the units were minimal apart from the games offered, the colour variations and game choices set them apart.

SEGA Genesis Mini II (2022)

Sega Mega Drive 2 Japanese Model

CPU: ARM7TDMI clocked at 81MHz
GPU: Not Specified
Memory:8 GB NAND flash
Storage: 512 MB flash memory
Video Output:1 HDMI port
Resolution: from 720p to 4K
Peripherals: 2 USB controller ports
Built-in Games: 60

Release Date: October 27, 2022 (WW)
Region: WW
Generation: Fourth
Status: Active
Release Price:¥9,980 (JP), $99.99 (North America), £104.99 (Europe)

The Sega Genesis Mini 2, known as the Mega Drive Mini 2 in Japan and Europe, follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Sega Genesis Mini. This updated version is supplied with an impressive collection of 60 pre-installed Sega Genesis and Mega CD games.

Unveiled on October 10, 2022, this second rendition of the Sega Genesis Mini arrives with notable enhancements including a 6-button controller, a more compact redesign, and an extensive array of games waiting to be discovered by players.

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FreeckyCake

I'm just your average gamer who enjoys hunting hidden gems and underrated games. My love for Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams is like a truck and I recommend that you play it.

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3 responses to “All SEGA Consoles Ever Released (1983-2024)”

  1. Ve says:

    You forgot the SEGA MEGA CD console.

  2. popeye says:

    what a geek

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