32X...*First* impressions...

[zektor]

Yep, I never owned this console (or add-on I should say) and just got one only a few hours ago with a few games:

Star Wars Arcade
Virtua Fighter
Virtua Racing
Doom
Night Trap 32X
Blackthorne

I really expected worse. I have been reading sour reviews on this system for years. Well, I really like it! I read not too long ago that the 32X games were not that much better graphically than ordinary Genesis games. Not true at all. The Genesis could never do what is done in Star Wars (awesome game BTW) regarding sound and graphics.

Well, this is my first impression. A nice add-on and upgrade, with some nice games. Just wish it stuck around and received a larger library. Man, imagine what we would have had...

On a side note:

Are those "electromagnetic plates" really necessary? I installed them (and of course caused a little scratch on my Genesis...ARGH) just in case, but I just think that it is really funny that the manual tells you to install these if you have a model 1 or model 2 Genesis (what ELSE would they have thought you had at the time?) but they never explain WHY you would need these little sheet metal plastic scratching pieces in the first place!

Also, there is some weird plastic piece with a cartridge port in the box. I do not see this at all in the manual's content area. Anyone have an idea as to what the heck this is? The only thing it looks you would be able to do with this is plug a genesis cart into it....but it does not look like it can plug into anything else!

[Kid Ice]

I had so much trouble connecting the 32X when I first got it, it left a bad taste in my mouth. Some of the games that I thought were worthwhile have since been done much better (VF, Star Wars Arcade). IMO Shadow Squadron is the only stone cold classic on the system, it's worth having for that.

[bangtango]

Yep, I never owned this console (or add-on I should say) and just got one only a few hours ago with a few games:

Star Wars Arcade
Virtua Fighter
Virtua Racing
Doom
Night Trap 32X
Blackthorne

I really expected worse. I have been reading sour reviews on this system for years. Well, I really like it! I read not too long ago that the 32X games were not that much better graphically than ordinary Genesis games. Not true at all. The Genesis could never do what is done in Star Wars (awesome game BTW) regarding sound and graphics.

Well, this is my first impression. A nice add-on and upgrade, with some nice games. Just wish it stuck around and received a larger library. Man, imagine what we would have had...

On a side note:

Are those "electromagnetic plates" really necessary? I installed them (and of course caused a little scratch on my Genesis...ARGH) just in case, but I just think that it is really funny that the manual tells you to install these if you have a model 1 or model 2 Genesis (what ELSE would they have thought you had at the time?) but they never explain WHY you would need these little sheet metal plastic scratching pieces in the first place!

Also, there is some weird plastic piece with a cartridge port in the box. I do not see this at all in the manual's content area. Anyone have an idea as to what the heck this is? The only thing it looks you would be able to do with this is plug a genesis cart into it....but it does not look like it can plug into anything else!

I spent a full hour Googling web sites one morning to answer that same question about the metal plates. The consensus I found is that you need them for the model 1 Genesis but they are not needed for the model 2. Don't consider me an authority, though. I'm just basing this on what I read on a few Sega-based web sites, some Sega related message boards (only the posts from regulars) and the like. That plastic piece isn't the spacer that you put on the 32X itself, is it?

I bought my first 32X last year and got the same good vibes you did. I really enjoy the port of Doom (note that I've never played the PC version), Star Wars Arcade, Space Harrier and even Metal Head. NFL Quarterback Club and RBI Baseball 95 are a pair of decent sports titles, if you like that sort of thing. I agree with you on another point. The graphics in a game like Star Wars Arcade or even Metal Head are a noticeable upgrade over the regular Genesis.

Of course my opinion might be different if I had paid full price for the 32X and its games, like some of the people here did back in the 1990's but since my entire 32X library has somewhere in the area of $50 invested in it, instead of $200-250, maybe I am just a little less critical. I will say I have had more fun playing 32X games than Sega CD titles. I would be ecstatic to get Afterburner, NBA Jam TE, Virtua Fighter and Virtua Racing, none of which I have played on the system yet.

[zektor]

Yeah, the hook up initially kind of sucked...but only because of those plates. The rest was very easy.

The "adapter" is not part of the 32X package. I am not sure what the heck it is. I guess I'll have to do some searching when I have the time.

All in all, I am quite pleased with it. I got it complete, boxed, with those games complete and boxed for $40 total. So, maybe you are right in saying we may be kind if biased since we didn't pay what someone did back then for it. I was honestly out of the Genesis scene long before this came out back in those days. I saw it often in the stores, but just never had the desire to pick it up. Kind of glad I didn't back then...for the original asking price.

But today, at the budget price it is, it is most certainly a nice little addon for the Genesis. And it adds some more games to my collection :)

[InsaneDavid]

I spent a full hour Googling web sites one morning to answer that same question about the metal plates. The consensus I found is that you need them for the model 1 Genesis but they are not needed for the model 2.

I agree with that, the Genesis 1 is an RF shielding nightmare from my experience - still not as bad as the Jaguar.


Also, there is some weird plastic piece with a cartridge port in the box. I do not see this at all in the manual's content area. Anyone have an idea as to what the heck this is? The only thing it looks you would be able to do with this is plug a genesis cart into it....but it does not look like it can plug into anything else!

Does it fit over the expansion port? Possibly to add further RF shielding?

[retroman]

i didnt use the plates, and its worked fine since 1994.

[zektor]

I agree with that, the Genesis 1 is an RF shielding nightmare from my experience - still not as bad as the Jaguar.



Does it fit over the expansion port? Possibly to add further RF shielding?

No, it only has a cart port on it. Very odd. I also did notice that the manual to the unit actually has instructions to hook it up to a CDX unit. I dunno if that is the norm, but from what I was told Sega had stated that this is NOT to be hooked up to that unit.

I'll try to get pics (and find hosting) maybe this weekend, and perhaps someone can tell me what this thing is.

[ccovell]

Also, there is some weird plastic piece with a cartridge port in the box.

That's the 32X. You can safely throw that part away. ROFL



I kid, I kid.

[j_factor]

I have a model 1 Genesis (actually the older model 1 with no lockout) with a 32x, and have never encountered any issues due to the lack of magnetic plates. Someone told me that those plates are only needed if you're using an RF connection. I can't say how true that is, as I don't have an RF unit.

As for the CDX, the 32x originally came with instructions on how to hook it up with a CDX, and it also had a note enclosed saying not to. Why this is, remains a mystery. Some rumors stated that it was because they failed to get FCC approval for the combination, but for some reason I just don't buy it.

[Bluteg]

I never used the shields nor had any problems. Also Shadow Squadron is a very underrated game as dated as it may look.

[Cafeman]

I loved my 32X (bought it week 1) for about 3/4 of a year. Virtua Racing, Star Wars, Doom made my winter/spring a lot of fun. A Chaotix was pretty cool for a while too. But it all dried up, and was blown away of course by Saturn and PSX.

I remember being in awe of the cartridge music version of the Star Wars theme. It sounded like it was spun of a CD to me.

[Push Upstairs]

I think the reason people were told not to use 32x and the CDX together is because humans are incapable of withstanding the sheer awesomeness of the two machines working together.

But it's probably because that would be one butt-ugly mutant beast.


I hardly played my 32x when I owned the thing. The main reason was because the joy I got from it wasn't enough to overcome the frustration of setting the damn thing up.

[PallarAndersVisa]

I bought my 32x around the time the saturn/psx just came out. I enjoyed the hell out of Knuckles chaotix (even though every copy i owned was bugged) Star Wars Arcade and Virtua Fighter.

[Cryomancer]

Loved it since I bought one way back when they cost like 90 dollars or so. It gets a lot of shit, but it was fun then and is fun now. You set it up once and leave it that way. You can play normal genesis games through it, guys.

[Push Upstairs]

My setup problem was completely due to having a Genesis 1 at its core.

I just don't think there is a good way to have a 32x/Gen1/Sega CD 2 setup and still have glorious stereo sound coming from the SCD.

But it's really about the fact that what I wanted the 32x for the most (Space Harrier and Afterburner) the Saturn just did it better and with less hassle.

[bangtango]

You set it up once and leave it that way. You can play normal genesis games through it, guys.

That's right. I leave my 32X hooked up 100% of the time. I only went through the metal plate thing once, they are in there, and I don't have any reason to take the 32X out of my Genesis. No point, since I can play my Genesis games and 32X games leaving it as is.

[fishsandwich]

Don't forget to pick up one more game... Virtua Fighter. It shows what the 32x can really do.

[Bratwurst]

I love the 32X and bought a second Genesis just for it. Patiently waiting for homebrew magic to come about.

[Chuplayer]

Also, there is some weird plastic piece with a cartridge port in the box. I do not see this at all in the manual's content area. Anyone have an idea as to what the heck this is? The only thing it looks you would be able to do with this is plug a genesis cart into it....but it does not look like it can plug into anything else!

I think it's a special adapter for the Master System Power Base thingy.

[Vroomfunkel]

Also, there is some weird plastic piece with a cartridge port in the box. I do not see this at all in the manual's content area. Anyone have an idea as to what the heck this is? The only thing it looks you would be able to do with this is plug a genesis cart into it....but it does not look like it can plug into anything else!

I think perhaps you are talking about the plastic spacer that you put inbetween the 32X and one of the Genesis models (can't remember if it is 1 or 2, I think the latter), so that it sits snug. If so, it's purely aesthetic really, not at all necessary. It's not for the powerbase adapter - that is not compatible with the 32X.

[mailman187666]

I had 32x back when it first came out. I didn't have a computer at the time so being able to play doom on a home console was the best for me. That port of doom was done well I thought. It wasn't as good as the PC version but it was the first home console port of doom made. It out did the 3DO version by far I thought. My favorite game for the system I'd say has to be Blackthorne. My first 32x eventually died somehow on me and it would freeze games and I would even get error messages on screen. There would also be times when anything being rendered by the 32x wouldn't even show up on the screen, for instance the game screen for doom would be all black but it would still show the health bar at the bottom. I bought a second 32x on clearence at toys r us for $20 when they pulled the plug on the system. To this day my 32x works fine. I wish I could get the original one working again.

[Cryomancer]

Still have it? Try this.

http://www.sonic-cult.org/articles/32x/

[Slate]

I didn't have a good experience with the 32x. First I had to figure out how to put the stupid metal plates in (Wich, I found out, Aren't necessary) And then once I hooked it up, Chaotix didn't work. I found out that the two white wires inside the unit had a poor connection and I had to reconnect them.

[blissfulnoise]

I first got the 32x as a Christmas present back in 1994. We had a model 1 genesis/sega CD and it just didn't work. We just returned it.

Flash forward to 1999 and I give it a second time around.

Most games are truthfully pretty awful. Cosmic Carnage is an abomination. But there are a few very solid games.

Kolibri, though, is the one that I find myself actually wanting to play over time.

[Sweater Fish Deluxe]

Yeah, like others have said, those little pieces of metal are only needed if you're using an RF connection. Well not *NEEDED* maybe, but certainly highly recommended, but then ditching RF altogether if you're still using it is highly recommended anyway. If the the other piece of plastic with the "cartridge port" on it that you mentioned isn't the spacer like Vroomfunkel suggested, it must be the special expansion port cover that shipped with some 32Xs. The expansion port is an edge connector just like a cartridge, so the cover does look like a cartridge port. This too seems to have been for additional RF shielding, though I didn't find that it made any difference when I tested it out on my system, it may have been needed for some systems or configurations, though. The 32X was a total RF nightmare, there's no doubt about that and I see absolutely no reason to doubt that the FCC would have had a problem with using the 32X on a CDX and this is why Sega had to make the last minute correction.

Anyway, zektor, you definitely lucked out with your initial batch of games and that's probably why you have such a positive view of the system. I still think that the 32X versions of Sega's model 1 games, Virtua Racing, VF1 and Star Wars Arcade are the best console versions ever released (I never played that VF1 Anniversary or whatever it was release on the PS2, but that was supposed to be pretty good, I guess) and Blackthorne is a great game, too, though not really any better on the 32X than it is on the SNES. Hopefully you can keep that sweet taste in your mouth, zektor, because honestly the 32X does get a sort of bad wrap, I think. It was certainly a mistake on Sega's part, but that doesn't mean there's nothing good about it.

I definitely second the recommendation of Shadow Squadron. It's even better than Star Wars Arcade in my opinion. I sort of think of it as the lost model 1 game as it would have made a great arcade release and probably would have been just as legendary as the others if it had been instead of being a 32X exclusive. Metal Head is kind of cool, too, though more flawed in terms of graphics and control than the other games already mentioned, so not as highly recommended, I guess, but still pretty cool.


...word is bondage...

[j_factor]

I just don't think there is a good way to have a 32x/Gen1/Sega CD 2 setup and still have glorious stereo sound coming from the SCD.

The Sega CD has stereo RCA audio ports on the back. You just need a mixing cable to connect the Genesis's headphone jack to the "mixing" input on the Sega CD. Alternatively, you can skip the mixing cable and get a headphone to RCA stereo adapter, and just get the sound out of the headphone jack (the Sega CD's sound will pass through as well). The 32x has no bearing on any of this, as the audio will still pass through the headphone jack in full stereo as normal (even with 32x games).

[zektor]

I found out what that "adapter" is. It is a dongle, for the side of the Genesis itself. I spoke with some people, and apparently Sega supplied this for some unknown reason, and it does nothing when it is on (maybe a future thing for the 32X?) Anyway, no mention in the manual...but I guess I can be happy that I have an official, worthless dongle!

EDIT: Oops..I missed the part that was said before about this being some sort of extra rf shielding. Whatever it is, I do not need it, I have my tower all set up (32X/Genesis model 1/Sega CD 1st model) and what a freakin beast it is!

[Push Upstairs]

The Sega CD has stereo RCA audio ports on the back. You just need a mixing cable to connect the Genesis's headphone jack to the "mixing" input on the Sega CD. Alternatively, you can skip the mixing cable and get a headphone to RCA stereo adapter, and just get the sound out of the headphone jack (the Sega CD's sound will pass through as well). The 32x has no bearing on any of this, as the audio will still pass through the headphone jack in full stereo as normal (even with 32x games).


Ah well. I still don't regret selling the damn thing. The Saturn plays "Afterburner" and "Space Harrier" better and only requires 1 plug in.

[zektor]

Ah well. I still don't regret selling the damn thing. The Saturn plays "Afterburner" and "Space Harrier" better and only requires 1 plug in.

These are the best cart based Afterburner and Space Harrier versions ever created tho. And that is enough for me to want to keep the 32X personally. Hell, if Space Harrier was the only game ever released for it, I would still want it and want to keep it. Space Harrier is more than just a game...to me.

[j_factor]

Ah well. I still don't regret selling the damn thing. The Saturn plays "Afterburner" and "Space Harrier" better and only requires 1 plug in.

I agree, but unfortunately, the Saturn can't play Shadow Squadron, Blackthorne, Star Wars Arcade, Tempo, Night Trap, or Kolibri. I'm no fan of the 32x (I'm of the opinion that it should never have existed), but it does have a few good games, and the three-way combination looks cool. :p

[Push Upstairs]

I agree, but unfortunately, the Saturn can't play Shadow Squadron, Blackthorne, Star Wars Arcade, Tempo, Night Trap, or Kolibri.

How can I go on living knowing I can't play "Night Trap"? :roll:

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

No, it only has a cart port on it. Very odd. I also did notice that the manual to the unit actually has instructions to hook it up to a CDX unit. I dunno if that is the norm, but from what I was told Sega had stated that this is NOT to be hooked up to that unit.

I'll try to get pics (and find hosting) maybe this weekend, and perhaps someone can tell me what this thing is.

I have a CD-X and a 32-X used it for years that way - never caused any problems....other than occasionally being mistaken for an old 1950's rotary telephone by guests.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b328/FrankieViturello/bottom.jpg

(photo from emulation zone, my CDX/32X is in storage)

http://www.webfeat.org/images/rotary_phone.gif

[suppafly]

These are the best cart based Afterburner and Space Harrier versions ever created tho. And that is enough for me to want to keep the 32X personally. Hell, if Space Harrier was the only game ever released for it, I would still want it and want to keep it. Space Harrier is more than just a game...to me.


And more because the 32x has better version than the saturn in the following games:

- Doom (32x runs better and more fps than the USA version of doom)
- Virtua Racing (the 32x version is better than the one on saturn)
- NBA JAM on 32x is the best home version, and it has no loading times either.

[xtremegamer]

Also has the best home version of Wrestlemania: The Arcade Game, All charcters, No loading time, No slow down. I have always been a huge fan of the 32X, Only game I've played for the system I dislike is Cosmic Carnage.

[Zebbe]

I just don't think there is a good way to have a 32x/Gen1/Sega CD 2 setup and still have glorious stereo sound coming from the SCD.

I have that setup. I have a mixing cable between the MD and the CD, and speakers through the RCA jacks of the CD. No problem at all.

[kazuo]

Just some random trash I wanted to add to the discussion:

The 32X does work with the CDX, as many have pointed out. SEGA never got FCC approval for it, and this is why they claimed it didn't work. If you own a 32X and have tried using it with a CDX (like me), you'll discover its nearly impossible to get a CD inside the tray with the 32X attached. :)

Other than that, it works, 100%.

It IS possible to get Stereo sound out of your tower of Babel, whether you have a Model1 or Model2 Genesis. Model1 simply needs the mixing cable; Model2 needs, well, nothing.

Alternatively, you can always have your console modded for Stereo RCA output, and use that to get stereo sound (this is what I do, since I am using mono RGB cables).

32X VF is not better than Saturn VF.. seriously. No. Saturn easily has a better polygon count, plays the same, and has minnimal loading. Virtua Racing is easily the better port, since the Saturn version isn't even the same game, really.

Also, 32X DOOM is a giant turd. Sure, it may be better than the Saturn version, but... horse shit, dog shit.

Still shit.

32X is only worth owning for Chaotix (don't care for it), NBA JAM T.E. (awesome!), and Blackthorne, if you don't already have it on SNES.

SEGA would have done better to just have never released the damn thing. But you know, everyone's a genius after the fact.

[suppafly]

32X VF is not better than Saturn VF.. seriously. No. Saturn easily has a better polygon count, plays the same, and has minnimal loading. Virtua Racing is easily the better port, since the Saturn version isn't even the same game, really.

Also, 32X DOOM is a giant turd. Sure, it may be better than the Saturn version, but... horse shit, dog shit.




Who said that virtua fighter was better on 32x than saturn??

And 32x version IS light years smoother than the USA saturn version thats for sure....we´re not saying its perfect, we´re saying its MUCH better than the saturn version.

[Push Upstairs]

I played "Doom" on the PC in '94. It ran smooth, allowed me to save anywhere, and ran at full screen.

[kazuo]

Who said that virtua fighter was better on 32x than saturn??

And 32x version IS light years smoother than the USA saturn version thats for sure....we´re not saying its perfect, we´re saying its MUCH better than the saturn version.


I still think that the 32X versions of Sega's model 1 games, Virtua Racing, VF1 and Star Wars Arcade are the best console versions ever released

I'm sorry, but 32X VF is not better than the Saturn version. It's just not. Not "smoother" or in any other sense.

Except for maybe loading. But even that's not a big deal.

[The EdgeCrusher]

can you use a 32X with a JVC X'eye?

[suppafly]

@Push Upstairs: Yes, I bet that a 2,000 PC back then worked better than a 150 US 32x.

Thanks

[mailman187666]

Just some random trash I wanted to add to the discussion:

The 32X does work with the CDX, as many have pointed out. SEGA never got FCC approval for it, and this is why they claimed it didn't work. If you own a 32X and have tried using it with a CDX (like me), you'll discover its nearly impossible to get a CD inside the tray with the 32X attached. :)

Other than that, it works, 100%.

It IS possible to get Stereo sound out of your tower of Babel, whether you have a Model1 or Model2 Genesis. Model1 simply needs the mixing cable; Model2 needs, well, nothing.

Alternatively, you can always have your console modded for Stereo RCA output, and use that to get stereo sound (this is what I do, since I am using mono RGB cables).

32X VF is not better than Saturn VF.. seriously. No. Saturn easily has a better polygon count, plays the same, and has minnimal loading. Virtua Racing is easily the better port, since the Saturn version isn't even the same game, really.

Also, 32X DOOM is a giant turd. Sure, it may be better than the Saturn version, but... horse shit, dog shit.

Still shit.

32X is only worth owning for Chaotix (don't care for it), NBA JAM T.E. (awesome!), and Blackthorne, if you don't already have it on SNES.

SEGA would have done better to just have never released the damn thing. But you know, everyone's a genius after the fact.


IMO, Chaotix is an OK game at best, it was fun. NBA JAM is awesome. I personally prefer Blackthorne on the 32X becuase it is not edited like the SNES version. Metal Head was ok at best but ran slow at a lot of points. Shadow Squadron is good. I didn't like the 32x verrsion of virtua fighter. MK2 for 32x is not bad but i think the SNES one is better. I personally like Night Trap. I'm into mad cheezy horror and this does it for me.

[Steve W]

It sounds like everybody here has had much better luck with their 32X units than I have. I gave up on playing it because of too many freezes. I bought mine because I loved the T-Mek arcade game, and the 32X received the only port to a home console. Other than playing that game, I have no desire to attempt to hook mine up again.

[Push Upstairs]

@Push Upstairs: Yes, I bet that a 2,000 PC back then worked better than a 150 US 32x.

Thanks

Well, If people currently have a PC that is more the capable of playing "DOOM", why would you wanna blow money on some watered down port?

I could understand if the game offered improved graphics (like in the case of some other games mentioned) but if not, why bother?

[zektor]

Man, the 32X does get some negativity, doesn't it? :) Well, after playing around with it for a day now, I still come to the same conclusion:

I really like it.

I think this is a great add-on for any Genesis enthusiast/collector. It adds some really great games to my collection. I am really glad to have gotten this for a nice price with some quality games (all complete no less), and will surely complete a 32X collection soon. Not too hard after I pass the Web Of Fire hump...which I already have coming :)

[Poofta!]

you think its not bad probably cause you didnt spend 300 dollars on it when it came out, desperately waited for each game to come out, spend 70 dollars for a few of them, never wanting to admit to your friends, parents or even yourself that it was a mistake and you shouldve waited for the saturn, or playstation or n64.

i wasnt one of those people. but i feel for them, i know the feeling of spending your last dime or a console you really really wanted and wanted to succeed and wanted to have fun and enjoy only to see it fail (in your eyes at least).

anyway, i bought the 32x for like 4 dollars new. when kmart or something was clearancing htem in the 90s. i didnt collect back then, and i thought it was complete trash. i threw it away! sure i regret it now... a new 32x would fetch a nice penny on ebay.

all that said, there are like 3-4 games worht playing. but honestly, id rather play arkanoid on dos than any of them.

[Kunk One]

I found a CIB 32X at a yard sale for 75 cents, and lay claim to it being one of my best finds. I don't remember hooking it up to my model 2 as that much of a hassle, but it appears the metal plates weren't necessary. On the other hand, I see a lot of complaints about the system not fitting properly (wobbly, bad connections) and my setup has been solid (as a rock). Mine also came with the extra part that looked like a cartridge (and the spacer), I just left those in the box. Perhaps the best thing about the system was being able to ditch the crummy RF output my Genesis offered and use common A/V inputs to hook the systems up. The worst part may be the two huge power bricks needed to run the console, but at least I have them in the first place.

Since I'm interested in finding a Sega CD, I'll ask if anyone has any opinions on the best Genesis/CD/32X setup - which models work best together or tend to be the most reliable? Maybe it doesn't matter so long as you have all the parts and everything is in good shape, but since I have both models of Genesis and all 32X parts, I have a couple of options as far as "tower" versus "flatland."

[zektor]

I found a CIB 32X at a yard sale for 75 cents, and lay claim to it being one of my best finds. I don't remember hooking it up to my model 2 as that much of a hassle, but it appears the metal plates weren't necessary. On the other hand, I see a lot of complaints about the system not fitting properly (wobbly, bad connections) and my setup has been solid (as a rock). Mine also came with the extra part that looked like a cartridge (and the spacer), I just left those in the box. Perhaps the best thing about the system was being able to ditch the crummy RF output my Genesis offered and use common A/V inputs to hook the systems up. The worst part may be the two huge power bricks needed to run the console, but at least I have them in the first place.

Since I'm interested in finding a Sega CD, I'll ask if anyone has any opinions on the best Genesis/CD/32X setup - which models work best together or tend to be the most reliable? Maybe it doesn't matter so long as you have all the parts and everything is in good shape, but since I have both models of Genesis and all 32X parts, I have a couple of options as far as "tower" versus "flatland."

Well, I use the Genesis 1/Sega CD 1/32X setup. I can't stand the 2nd Genesis model personally. I can't stand the second revision of the Genesis 1 either. Mostly because of the fact that they cannot natively run "Zany Golf", which is one of my favorite titles. Plus, I like "High Definition Graphics" plastered on my game console :)

With this setup, everything runs perfectly. I have never had a "crash", or something not working. And I really do not understand anybody not being able to hook up the 32X (aside from the rf shields...which it seems only 50% of the people I talk to actually use), as it is just a loopback cable, a cable going to the TV, and a power supply. Hell, you do more hooking up with the addition of online play nowadays :)

[zektor]

you think its not bad probably cause you didnt spend 300 dollars on it when it came out


$300? I thought this retailed for $159.99 when it was released. At least that is what I remember dude.

[Vroomfunkel]

I really didn't find much to like on the 32X. Chaotix seems to be a very hit-and-miss affair. Some people love it, others just don't 'get' it. I was definitely in the latter category. Was never a fan of the FMV games so that was all the 32X CD games out the window. Star Wars Arcade was fun. Kolibri was briliant, and so too was Darxide (although an absolute beast in terms of difficulty). Stellar Assault (Shadow Squadron) was quite good too.

I would quite like to have had a bash at the Star Trek game, as I am a nerd, but sadly it didn't get a PAL release. Oh, and I'm told by football fans that Fifa 96 was a good game. I guess there just weren't enough of the type of games that I liked for it - it was all fighters, racers, sports games and FMV crap. I like platformers (of which there was basically ONE), shooters, side-scrolling beat em ups, strategy, puzzle and adventure. So basically, my tastes were fairly badly catered for by the 32X.

[Iron Draggon]

That's right. I leave my 32X hooked up 100% of the time. I only went through the metal plate thing once, they are in there, and I don't have any reason to take the 32X out of my Genesis. No point, since I can play my Genesis games and 32X games leaving it as is.

the ONLY reason to disconnect your 32X from your Genesis is so you can play the Genesis version of Virtua Racing... it won't work through the 32X, because it contains the same SVP chip found in the 32X... but if you have the 32X version of Virtua Racing, you have no reason to even WANT to play the Genesis version anymore, aside from nostalgia and making comparisons...


I found out what that "adapter" is. It is a dongle, for the side of the Genesis itself. I spoke with some people, and apparently Sega supplied this for some unknown reason, and it does nothing when it is on (maybe a future thing for the 32X?) Anyway, no mention in the manual...but I guess I can be happy that I have an official, worthless dongle!

EDIT: Oops..I missed the part that was said before about this being some sort of extra rf shielding. Whatever it is, I do not need it, I have my tower all set up (32X/Genesis model 1/Sega CD 1st model) and what a freakin beast it is!


Well, I use the Genesis 1/Sega CD 1/32X setup. I can't stand the 2nd Genesis model personally. I can't stand the second revision of the Genesis 1 either. Mostly because of the fact that they cannot natively run "Zany Golf", which is one of my favorite titles. Plus, I like "High Definition Graphics" plastered on my game console :)

With this setup, everything runs perfectly. I have never had a "crash", or something not working. And I really do not understand anybody not being able to hook up the 32X (aside from the rf shields...which it seems only 50% of the people I talk to actually use), as it is just a loopback cable, a cable going to the TV, and a power supply. Hell, you do more hooking up with the addition of online play nowadays :)

I have that setup too, and I absolutely love it, although I would love to own a Genesis 2/Sega CD 2/32X setup also... along with a CDX, although I could prolly do without a third 32X to mate with my CDX... it could stay a virgin...

the only thing I don't like about the Genesis 1/Sega CD 1/32X setup is the fact that the motorized door on the Sega CD 1 tends to malfunction and refuse to open... becoming an even worse problem if it happens with a disc inside... which is why I'd like to have an alternate setup as well... no worries about that ever happening with the Sega CD 2... but then an almost equally good solution to the problem would be to just burn backup copies of all my Sega CD games, and use those to play in the Sega CD 1, so if it ever gets a disc stuck in it again, I won't have to worry about it scratching up the disc, trying to get it back out... I got real lucky when it happened the first time... got the disc back out with no scratches on it, and I think I got the motorized door fixed too, but I had to take the whole unit apart to retrieve my disk...

anyway, the "Tower of Babel" is best viewed as Sonic 2, locked onto Sonic & Knuckles, locked onto Game Genie, inserted in 32X, mounted on Genesis 1, with Sega CD 1... but I like to call the combo "Sega Lego"... looks like it to me!

"nothing is more 1994 than the Sega Lego system... potentially paired with the Activator, the Menacer, and the soon to be released Sega VR Headset, the Sega Lego system brings home all the sights and sounds of a 6 story video arcade... conveniently contained within its 6 levels of pure processing power... save space and save the human race with the Sega Lego system!"

[Aswald]

It was said by some 1990s magazines that the 32X was rushed out to match the upcoming 32-Bit era, since the Saturn was not yet ready.

If this was true, could someone explain this to me? How is it faster to rush out an attachment and games, instead of just producing the system and its games?

[j_factor]

It was rushed out in America to meet the Christmas '94 season. The Saturn was launched in '94 in Japan, but couldn't be launched that early in the US due to issues with supply (possibly components) and cost. The May '95 release of the Saturn was as rushed as humanly possible and supply of the console was dismal. 32x was much cheaper, didn't have as many components, etc. and the launch was relatively low-key (a low-key Saturn launch would not have been considered). So they were able to bring it out in all territories faster.

If you meant "rushed out" in terms of like, they created it for the express purpose of rushing it out the door in place of the Saturn, that's not true. The 32x actually has a long, weird, complicated history behind it.

[Aswald]

It didn't seem to have been a good idea, though- they had the "Atari Syndrome" of the 1990s. Like Atari, there seemed to have been too many things to support at that point: arcade games, 32X, Sega CD atachment, Genesis, and the Saturn.

(In the 1980s, Atari was supporting the 2600, the 5200, an arcade division, and I-don't-know-how-many computers (I know of at least 4 or 5). It was too much.)

[j_factor]

the ONLY reason to disconnect your 32X from your Genesis is so you can play the Genesis version of Virtua Racing...

Also Beggar Prince, and the early/unlicensed carts from EA and Ballistix.

My 32x in particular will always cause Shadow of the Beast to freeze, but only after a long time (which makes it much more frustrating). I don't know if it's an anomaly with my system or copy of the game, or an undocumented incompatibility, but removing the 32x makes it not freeze.

[j_factor]

It didn't seem to have been a good idea, though- they had the "Atari Syndrome" of the 1990s. Like Atari, there seemed to have been too many things to support at that point: arcade games, 32X, Sega CD atachment, Genesis, and the Saturn.

Oh, I totally agree (although your list is missing Game Gear, Pico, the Sega PC line, and Sega Toys :p). The Sega CD served a decent purpose, but 32x should never have been made IMO. There's not really any point to it. I also think that the effort and money they put into the 32x harmed Genesis's standing against the SNES -- it's no coincidence, IMO, that the year 32x came out was also the year that SNES edged ahead of Genesis in sales (in North America).

On the other hand, I think supporting multiple platforms -- to an extent -- is beneficial. For example, Sega of Europe's continued support of the Master System was a win-win situation, and heat.net was Sega of America's lone success under Bernie Stolar.

[MarioMania]

I just love the 32X, I don't care what other people say about it

When I got my 32X in '96..there was like a switch in the back of it..Virtua Racing will work on mine..

[Barbarianoutkast85]

I remember my first impression of the Sega 32X I was in the fifth grade so probably ten years old. My cousin had bought a Sega Cd, and 32x and I remember thinking it was the most bad-ass thing since sliced bread. Now I own roughly 15 complete 32x games, but the 32x console/add-on (whatever you want to call it) I have doesnt even work so I havent played most of the titles I have.

[Sweater Fish Deluxe]

the ONLY reason to disconnect your 32X from your Genesis is so you can play the Genesis version of Virtua Racing...Also Beggar Prince, and the early/unlicensed carts from EA and Ballistix.
Also the Power Base Converter, which is actually what I use my Genesis for about 50% of the time.

As for all the different products Sega was trying to support simultaneously back then, there was also the Nomad. Though, in fact, Sega didn't really market it very much or try to support it as a platform of its own. I sort wish they had, though. Back in 1995, I knew I wasn't going to be getting a Saturn or Playsytation or N64, but I was really hopeful that the Nomad (which I certainly wasn't going to be getting either) would be successful and mean that new Genesis games would continue to come out for the forseeable future. That didn't happen, of course. The Genesis died very quickly and I don't think a single game was ever released specifically marketed as a Nomad game, but if it had worked out it would have been really cool. The Nomad had other things working against it, of course, like the size and battery life, but I think that if Sega had put some marketing behind it, it could have been fairly successful despite those things.


...word is bondage...

[Iron Draggon]

It was said by some 1990s magazines that the 32X was rushed out to match the upcoming 32-Bit era, since the Saturn was not yet ready.

If this was true, could someone explain this to me? How is it faster to rush out an attachment and games, instead of just producing the system and its games?

it was mostly rushed out to compete with DKC on the SNES... Sega needed something comparable to DKC on the Genesis, and since the Genesis couldn't possibly pull off a game like DKC without the very expensive ($100 per cart) new SVP chip, it was decided to sell the 32X with the SVP chip in it, so once you bought the addon, you wouldn't have to buy the chip with every game... no one was gonna pay $100 per game... Sega had tried to test the waters for that prospect with the Genesis version of Virtua Racing, and it backfired on them... they also tried it with Phantasy Star 4, which didn't even have an SVP chip in it... they just thought that they would be able to get away with selling it for $100, but they found out that they were wrong about that too...


Also Beggar Prince, and the early/unlicensed carts from EA and Ballistix.

My 32x in particular will always cause Shadow of the Beast to freeze, but only after a long time (which makes it much more frustrating). I don't know if it's an anomaly with my system or copy of the game, or an undocumented incompatibility, but removing the 32x makes it not freeze.

well I haven't tested it with Beggar Prince, but all those other games can be played by inserting them into a Game Genie, and then inserting the combo in the 32X... in fact, that's what you have to do to be able to play them in any model of the Genesis after the very first ones with no lockout... so the ones that don't display the "licensed by Sega" screen at the start of every game... and you have to do the same thing to be able to play them on a Nomad too...

[j_factor]

it was mostly rushed out to compete with DKC on the SNES... Sega needed something comparable to DKC on the Genesis, and since the Genesis couldn't possibly pull off a game like DKC without the very expensive ($100 per cart) new SVP chip,

The history of 32x/Mars goes back before anyone knew about DKC. I don't think 32x was made to compete with DKC... An add-on to compete with a game doesn't really make sense.

Sega's actual attempt at an "answer" to Donkey Kong Country was a little game called X-Perts. Too bad it sucked ass.


it was decided to sell the 32X with the SVP chip in it, so once you bought the addon, you wouldn't have to buy the chip with every game...

The 32x has dual dedicated 32-bit processors, and has nothing to do with the SVP. There was also a plan to sell the SVP chip separately, but instead they decided to just make Virtua Racing the only SVP game.

[Push Upstairs]

My understanding of the "Why of the 32x" was that Sega of America worked on it and developed it because the Genesis, and carts, were more successful.

Sega of Japan favored disc based systems (they were more successful in Japan) and developed the Saturn.

I believe some this information and much more is included in the many interviews conducted over at Sega-16.com.

[grolt]

I finally got myself a boxed 32X after years of wanting to set that thing up. The Genesis was my least favorite Sega console, so I never really played it much aside from the Sonics and a few other games I loved back in the day (Street Fighter II, Altered Beast, etc.). Hooking it up now though, I must say, I'm pretty impressed by it. While Knuckles' Chaotix doesn't even compare to the Sonics in my opinion, it's still an inventive and fun little platformer. It's nice to have comparable graphics to the Saturn MKII without the load times as well.

The real diamond on that system though is the Space Harrier port, which I believe to be the best console version of the game. The Master System game, while I admire the port, is pretty unplayable (although the 3D version is a little better). There's no question about that. People seem to default to liking the Saturn port on Sega Ages because it fixes the slow down found in the 32X port and adds in analog control, but honestly, the 32X version just "plays" better. For me, the Saturn version is way too sensitive, I am just whizzing all over the screen in that, whether I'm using the D-pad or the analog stick. The 32X version though, feels perfect. The sound seems more realistic, too, on the 32X. And no load times. :)

While I like many of the other games on the 32X (Kolibri, BlackThorne), the Space Harrier port is what really sold me on it. Sure, it's an old game, but it really did benefit from that added horsepower. I'm now anxious to track down Afterburner and see if it was done just as well.

I had planned to just hook the 32X up as a novelty, but it's pretty clear now that with the propensity I play Space Harrier, it won't soon be getting any rest.

[suppafly]

Well, If people currently have a PC that is more the capable of playing "DOOM", why would you wanna blow money on some watered down port?

I could understand if the game offered improved graphics (like in the case of some other games mentioned) but if not, why bother?

WHy bother? Because not everyone had a fast pc back in 1993...thats why

I really liked DOom on 32x and im a doom fan...

In fact I didnt have a PC until 1995... :p

[Sweater Fish Deluxe]

I didn't have a PC until 2000!

But then I'm not a DOOM fan at all.

I have enjoyed playing the WolfenDOOM mods on the DOOM ports for the Dreamcast and DS, though.


...word is bondage...

[segagamer]

The Saturn port on Sega Ages fixes the slowdown found in the 32X port and adds analog control, as well as providing a smoother and higher frame rate and making the game run in full-screen mode. Strangely, only Space Harrier 32X is letterboxed, as After Burner II 32X is full-screen.

OutRun was going to be the next 32X arcade to home port, but it was cancelled when the 32X itself was cancelled. It would have been interesting to see how well the OutRun port was going to be on the 32X and compare that to the Saturn port...

[Push Upstairs]

WHy bother? Because not everyone had a fast pc back in 1993...thats why

I really liked DOom on 32x and im a doom fan...

In fact I didnt have a PC until 1995... :p

And what is the excuse for today? I'd rather play some rushed, broken port on 32x than one that is better? Please.

[suppafly]

And what is the excuse for today? I'd rather play some rushed, broken port on 32x than one that is better? Please.

I play it on my 32x because I like the game, and its *far* from a bad port. If you want a bad port check out the snes version.

[Aswald]

it was mostly rushed out to compete with DKC on the SNES... Sega needed something comparable to DKC on the Genesis, and since the Genesis couldn't possibly pull off a game like DKC without the very expensive ($100 per cart) new SVP chip, it was decided to sell the 32X with the SVP chip in it, so once you bought the addon, you wouldn't have to buy the chip with every game... no one was gonna pay $100 per game... Sega had tried to test the waters for that prospect with the Genesis version of Virtua Racing, and it backfired on them... they also tried it with Phantasy Star 4, which didn't even have an SVP chip in it... they just thought that they would be able to get away with selling it for $100, but they found out that they were wrong about that too...



well I haven't tested it with Beggar Prince, but all those other games can be played by inserting them into a Game Genie, and then inserting the combo in the 32X... in fact, that's what you have to do to be able to play them in any model of the Genesis after the very first ones with no lockout... so the ones that don't display the "licensed by Sega" screen at the start of every game... and you have to do the same thing to be able to play them on a Nomad too...



Hmmm...except upgrades don't seem to have had a very good track record. Even the Starpath Supercharger, which was really good, did not do all that well in sales. It's strange- people will buy a new CONSOLE, even if it is incompatable with the old games, but not so much an upgrade.

[Dreamcast]

i thought my 32X was broken becuase it would show my guys. (it was the gay cable) so i orderd another one....then i figured out it was that gay cord.

everyone says that 32x sucks....well the games are expensive but the games are cool. (no one can beat me at virtua fighter =D) I was blown away by virtua racing (the pit crew was really cool looking)

[Dreamcast]

I play it on my 32x because I like the game, and its *far* from a bad port. If you want a bad port check out the snes version.

sorry for double post.

Snes had better music though....

[bangtango]

And what is the excuse for today? I'd rather play some rushed, broken port on 32x than one that is better? Please.

If you think the guy is going to apologize for liking 32X Doom, or should apologize, you may be waiting a while :-D

[Sweater Fish Deluxe]

i thought my 32X was broken becuase it would show my guys. (it was the gay cable) so i orderd another one....then i figured out it was that gay cord.
It was showing you guys? I must admit, that does sound like something a gay cable might do. I always prefer to use straight cables...not there's any thing wrong with being a gay cable. Some of my best cables are gay cables. I just find the straight ones are easier to deal with.


...word is bondage...

[Kunk One]

I was blown away by virtua racing (the pit crew was really cool looking)

While the pit crew leaves something to be desired, the physics in Virtua Racing 32X are tops, especially compared to the VR-In Name Only released on the Saturn. (Damn you Time Warner Interactive circa 1996)

[boatofcar]

i thought my 32X was broken becuase it would show my guys. (it was the gay cable) so i orderd another one....then i figured out it was that gay cord.



Sizz? Is that you?