Sega CD
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| Manufacturer | SEGA |
|---|---|
| Generation | Fourth generation |
| Release date | December 12, 1991 (JP) October 15, 1992 (NA) |
| Media type | CD-ROM & CD+G |
The Sega Mega-CD (メガCD Mega Shī Dī) (released as the Sega CD in North America) is an add-on device for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis video game console, designed and produced by Sega. The device adds a CD-ROM drive to the console, allowing the user to play CD-based games and providing additional hardware functionality. It can also play audio CDs and CD+G discs.
The first version of the Mega-CD sits underneath the Mega Drive console and loads CDs via a motorized tray. A second version places a top-loading CD-ROM drive to the right of the console and is intended primarily for use with the redesigned Mega Drive II. Both versions of the Mega-CD are compatible with the initial two versions of the Mega Drive console, but not with the Genesis 3.
Technical specifications
Models
- Mega-CD I (Sega CD I in North America)
- Mega-CD II (Sega CD II in North America).
- Designed for the Mega Drive 2/2nd model Genesis (also compatible with the Mega Drive/1st model Genesis and included a special add-on for this purpose) and to reduce manufacturing costs.
- Victor Wondermega RG M2
- JVC Wondermega RG M1
- Released on April 1, 1992 only in Japan, as a combination Mega Drive/Mega-CD player with enhanced sound, video and karaoke capabilities and a mechanized CD tray lid. Also included MIDI functionality. Sega themselves released on April 24, 1992 a variation of this unit with slight cosmetic changes, but functionality remains identical, branded as Sega Wondermega)
- JVC Wondermega Model RG M2
- A second model (Japan exclusive as the first) with a different case design and wireless controller functionality built in. The mechanized CD tray was omitted in favor of a more conventional spring-loaded tray design. Otherwise, functionally identical to the Wondermega I. This model was stripped down released in the US as the JVC X'Eye.)
- Pioneer LaserActive
- Sega Mega-CD module, an add-on device available for the LaserActive system
