Is the Sega Genesis Mini Worth the Hype? A Complete Review

With gaming seeing a sot of “retro-revival” over the past few years as many are seeking out older gaming consoles to relive old memories or to experience the roots of gaming firsthand, one console that is getting talked about is the new Sega Genesis Mini, but is it worth the hype, and more importantly, is it worth the money?

Hardware and design

If you grew up in the 90s, the Sega Genesis Mini will certainly take you on a trip down memory lane. While smaller (55% scale), it looks a lot like the original and comes with two wired controllers that are also similar to the ones that came with the system.

You can also purchase officially licensed retro six-button controllers that were popular with the system in the later years and help you navigate the save files and game menus a little easier.

Game selection

The Sega Genesis Mini boasts an impressive lineup of games that cover a wide range of genres. From platformers to RPGs, there is something for every type of player. You’ll find several of the most popular games of the time, including Sonic the Hedgehog, Castle of Illusion, Earthworm Jim, ToeJam & Earl, Streets of Rage, and many others, for 42 games in total that you can play right out of the box.

Performance and display options

All of the games run smoothly with no noticeable lag and provide an authentic visual and audio experience. Seega has also included some new options to improve the experience. You can choose between 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios, with a CRT filter available for those looking for a more authentic retro feel. However, it’s worth noting that the CRT filter tends to darken the image significantly and might force you to turn up your TV brightness.

Limitations and drawbacks

The Sega Genesis Mini is a solid system that will appeal to any retragamer or Sega fanatic. The only real complaints are that it’s a little clunky to choose your game, get to the main menu, and manage saves, though it’s a little easier with the upgraded six-button controller. There are also some notable games missing that were hugely popular, including Alladin and Outrun.

Is it worth buying?

Ultimately, the Sega Genesis Mini is a fantastic purchase for anyone with a soft spot for retro gaming and the games built into the system. The carefully chosen selection will keep you busy for many hours, and you will spend most of that time on the edge of your seat. The graphics and sound are perfect for the era, and the console and controllers feel sturdy and durable.

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