SEGA Mega Drive Mini Review

SEGA Mega Drive Mini Review

The official SEGA Mega Drive Mini is widely praised by reviewers for its top-notch build quality, excellent game selection, and solid emulation that corrects many audio issues found in third-party Mega Drive clones. However, some critics note the omission of a six-button controller for certain games, minor audio lag in fast-paced titles, and a poor CRT filter option. The console was first released in 2019. 

Design and build quality

Reviewers are highly impressed with the attention to detail in the miniature replica of the classic Mega Drive console. 

• Aesthetics: The miniaturised unit is beautifully designed to be a smaller, but perfectly scaled, replica of the original hardware. Even the cartridge slot cover can be lifted, and the volume slider can be moved, though these are just for show.
• Controller: The two included controllers are excellent, first-rate reproductions of the original three-button pads and are much better than those from unofficial alternatives. They are USB-connected, with a decent cable length that is a big improvement over earlier mini-consoles.
• Connectivity: The console connects to modern TVs via HDMI and is powered by a micro-USB cable. 

Game selection

The European Mega Drive Mini comes pre-loaded with 42 games, a collection that is largely celebrated as one of the best for a mini console. 

• Hits: Many of the most acclaimed games from the Mega Drive’s library are included, such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Streets of Rage 2, Gunstar Heroes, Castlevania: The New Generation, Earthworm Jim, and Thunder Force III.
• Notable omissions: Some reviewers noted the absence of certain licensed games due to rights issues, such as Micro Machines 2 and some classic sports titles.
• Gaming on modern TVs: The game menu is easy to navigate and can be displayed with either the original box art or spine art. The games look crisp and clear over HDMI, and you can switch between the classic 4:3 aspect ratio or widescreen. 

Performance and emulation

The console’s performance is handled by the renowned developer M2, known for its excellent emulation work. 

• High-quality emulation: M2’s work ensures the games play and sound as they should, avoiding the poor audio and performance issues that plagued many unofficial Mega Drive plug-and-play consoles.
• Minor issues: A few reviews point out some minor input and audio lag, which can be noticeable in very fast-paced games. The optional CRT filter to simulate old TVs is also criticised as poor and best avoided. 

Features and drawbacks

The Mega Drive Mini offers several modern features that enhance the classic experience. 

• Save states: The most significant addition is the ability to create save states at any point in a game. This is a huge convenience for modern players, as many original games did not feature save functions.
• Six-button controller: The console ships with two three-button controllers, which makes certain games like Street Fighter II: Special Champion Edition difficult to play properly. For the ideal experience with those titles, you will need to purchase a separate six-button pad.
• No power plug: While the console comes with the necessary cables, a USB wall adapter is not included.
• No new games: You cannot add new games via cartridges or downloads. The console is limited to its 42 pre-loaded games.