Sega Master System

Release: June 1986
aka: Mark III (Japan)

Sega had been making games for some of the first game consoles, and decided to create their own system. They created the SG-1000 and Mark III systems in Japan before moving into North America. After witnessing the rapid sucess of the Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega decided to make a move overseas . They made some upgrades to the Mark III, and released it as the Sega Master System (SMS).

The Master System could play two types of games. The first was their standard cartridge, and the second was a cheaper, but less perfected 'Sega Card', similar to a credit card or driver's liscence that could be put into the system.

The Sega Master System was designed to be better than the NES—and according to the hardware specifications, it was. But the SMS never broke ground like the NES, and for good reasons. First, Sega sold the United States Master System rights to Tonka, a toy manufacturer. This was to have the system better circulated. Unfortunately for Sega, Tonka—which had never marketed a gaming console before—turned down several games that were popular in Europe (where the SMS was doing better), and released some less exciting titles. Also, because of Nintendo's strict third-party policies, it was difficult to find good companies that would program games for the Master System. The SMS was also poorly marketed, and could not penetrate a Nintendo-dominated market. The Sega Master System, though technically superior, never came close in the North America.

In Europe, especially in countries that Nintendo had not entered, the Master System was supported until 1996 when it was put aside so that Sega could focus on the Saturn.

Upgrades & Accessories

Sega Scope 3D Glasses

These 3D glasses would enhance the gameplay of many games, and many gamers enjoyed them. Only six titles were released for them, however. They are Maze Hunter 3D, Space Harrier 3D, Blade Eagle 3D, Zaxxon 3D, Poseidon Wars 3D and Missle Defense 3D.

Light Phaser

Sega released its light gun, much like Nintendo's Zapper. Parents worried that it would look like a real firearm, and told Sega to re-design it (they added a neon orange tip).

Power Ball Sports Pad

A Controller designed to enhance sports games, only Sports Pad Football was designed to actually work with the pad. It never caught on, and justly so.

Sega Master System II

In 1990, the Sega Genesis had been released and established, Sega aquired the marketing rights for the Master System back from Tonka. A re-release of the Master System hardware was created and named the Master System II. To cut back on the price tag, the Master System was smaller, had no power light, reset button, card slot or expansion port.

Unreleased Add-Ons

When the Sega Master System was released, a 3.5" disk drive and a drawing board device were announced, but the two devices never made it onto the shelves.

Top Games

• Phantasy Star
  
• Golden Axe Warrior
  
• Zillion