View Full Version : FC Mobile II and Sega Digital Pocket - New Handhelds from Hyperkin.
Sonicwolf
01-30-2009, 03:08 PM
It seems that the handhelds in the topic were shown off at CES this year.
http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2009/01/hyperkins-nes-genesis-handhelds-disappoint.ars
I have found other pictures of this "FC Mobile 2" and it is looking promising aside from the negative reviews from that website. The pictures I found did have the correct button organization for the b and a buttons and the picture in the article above seems to show both av out AND ac input which is great... Personally, I cant wait.
The Genesis handheld that takes cartridges is still ambiguous and I havnt found any pics of it yet.
When I find the other site again with the other pics, I will post it. Hope this hasnt been posted already.
Woo! I found it! http://techrepublic.com.com/2346-1035_11-261668-4.html
ITS BA! haha! No more FC Mobile AB!
MegaDrive20XX
01-30-2009, 04:16 PM
Yeah, I was fixing to ask, where's the love for the Genesis mobile? I'm tired of seeing the NES get screen shots. I think the Genesis mobile could be that pink PSP rip-off?
http://techrepublic.com.com/2347-1035_11-261668-261670.html?seq=2
*edit* that has to be it
Jimid2
01-30-2009, 04:58 PM
I could really go for a cheap mobile Genesis - my Nomad's sweet, but it's heavy using batteries, and the cord on my AC adapter is too short to use very comfortably... Besides, I rather like my FC Mobile, so I'd happily shell out $30-$40 for a Genni equivalent...
Frankie_Says_Relax
01-30-2009, 05:13 PM
THE B and A BUTTONS ARE IN THE CORRECT ORDER!!!
PRAISE THE GODS OF CLONE GAMING!
http://i.techrepublic.com.com/gallery/261672.jpg
If that truly is the case I'll get one when they drop and then my regular FC Mobile will be up for sale at the subsequent NAVA.
Haha ... I love the pink PSP Genesis clone!
Tupin
01-30-2009, 05:22 PM
I'm thinking about getting one of these, but I WAS waiting until they got the buttons right. For $80 though, I might wait.
I'll have to see about the Genesis one, that button placement looks iffy. Once again with bad buttons. :rockets:
Sonicwolf
01-30-2009, 07:14 PM
THE B and A BUTTONS ARE IN THE CORRECT ORDER!!!
PRAISE THE GODS OF CLONE GAMING!
Exactly what I said when I saw this.
guitargary75
01-30-2009, 10:58 PM
At least the buttons are right now!
Sonicwolf
01-30-2009, 11:04 PM
I hope it comes out soon... I will buy it instantly
Tupin
01-30-2009, 11:13 PM
I hope it comes out soon... I will buy it instantly
I can't imagine the screen taking a downgrade, even on the original, the screen looks good.
I can't wait for it to come out, I'll base whether or not I should buy it on reviews and Frankie's inevitable thread/review about these systems. LOL
Frankie_Says_Relax
01-30-2009, 11:39 PM
From the description alone it looks to have corrected all the major problems I had with the first unit.
A.) Backward button syndrome
B.) No option for AC Adapter
I'm sure the screen is fine ... the screen on the 1st FC Mobile unit is very nice (except for spots of color palette flaking out which just requires a reset)
The addition of wireless controllers if you want to use it as a TV unit is pretty awesome if you ask me. They didn't have to do something like that and I appreciate the "thinking outside-of-the-clone-system-box" (though they're likely just integrating the wireless controller hardware from the rash of "Wii clones" into the system hardware ... but hell, I'm not going to fault them for using what's out there to their advantage).
The reviewer from the 1st article saying that he was disappointed with the build quality ... well, frankly that just sounds like a person who doesn't have his clone system expectations in the right place.
Tupin
01-31-2009, 12:01 AM
Well, I expect a clone to be light no matter what the build quality is. Clones like the Retro Duo are light, but built well. I'm assuming the same can be said for the FC Mobiles.
The FC Mobile 2 looks a lot thicker than the original. Is that caused by the receiver for the wireless controllers?
j_factor
01-31-2009, 12:06 AM
The buttons on the Genesis one look uncomfortable. To close to the edge/top of the unit, and the d-pad looks awful.
Tupin
01-31-2009, 12:10 AM
The buttons on the Genesis one look uncomfortable. To close to the edge/top of the unit, and the d-pad looks awful.
It's a first generation unit, it's going to be replaced within a year after it's released with dramatic improvements anyway.
This is also why I waited and opted not to get an FC Mobile 1.
Release dates on these types of things are scattered, but after I heard about the FC3 online, I saw it in stores like two/three weeks later.
Sonicwolf
01-31-2009, 12:45 AM
Release dates on these types of things are scattered, but after I heard about the FC3 online, I saw it in stores like two/three weeks later.
*desperately crosses fingers* lol. The idea of playing NES in portable system is nice to say the least. Especcially with an AC adaptor :D
Leo_A
01-31-2009, 02:18 AM
Buttons may not be backward, but it iooks sucky for games like SMB. A being where B is, with B at turbo B, would've been better.
kedawa
01-31-2009, 06:10 AM
Portable SNES can't be far behind.
A being where B is, with B at turbo B, would've been better.Huh?
Jimid2
01-31-2009, 08:22 AM
THE B and A BUTTONS ARE IN THE CORRECT ORDER!!!Good grief... I didn't even notice this...
I'll have to pick up one of these for sure... But I'll have to relearn to play Contra and Super Mario Brothers the right way again... LOL
Portable SNES can't be far behind.
That would be sweet... I can't understand why one hasn't hit the streets before now... how hard could it be?
bangtango
01-31-2009, 08:33 AM
I'm sure the screen is fine ... the screen on the 1st FC Mobile unit is very nice (except for spots of color palette flaking out which just requires a reset).
That is why people can ignore that review from the web site.
Fact: An "FC Mobile 2" is going to have a screen at least as good as the 1st "FC Mobile", if not better. There is no logical reason to produce a second unit so soon after the first with a screen that is "worse" than the one before.
Leo_A
01-31-2009, 12:38 PM
Portable SNES can't be far behind.
Huh?
Huh?
How was that not clear? Who holds their thumbs in such a way that this setup is convenient to keep B pressed while using A for jump in a game like Super Mario Brothers? You all are just looking at this and seeing that B is to the left of A and acting like a miracle occurred, when its just as useless this way thanks to the locations they picked. Its good that the buttons are now not opposite of what they should be, but its hardly an ideal button layout for playing many NES games.
Once again, if the A button had actually been placed where the B button is presently on this unit, and the B button had been placed where BB is (I assume this is a turbo function for B), it would've been perfect and natural to use when playing a side scroller to keep B pressed to run while using A to jump.
MarioMania
01-31-2009, 01:03 PM
I hate the D-pad on it....
they should of done on the FC moble
..TA
B TB
..A
like playing NES games on the Super NES the SNES Y would be NES B SNES B Would be NES A
Tupin
01-31-2009, 01:21 PM
*desperately crosses fingers* lol. The idea of playing NES in portable system is nice to say the least. Especcially with an AC adaptor :D
That must be why it looks so much bigger than the original.
Still, it's worth it for the correct button configuration.
swlovinist
01-31-2009, 02:57 PM
are these being sold anywhere yet, espically the sega one? When are these supposed to come out? I googled with no avail. Any help would be great, thanks, John
Sonicwolf
01-31-2009, 04:53 PM
I have done a lot of looking around and there is very little information on either of these new handhelds.
Frankie_Says_Relax
01-31-2009, 05:07 PM
Huh?
How was that not clear? Who holds their thumbs in such a way that this setup is convenient to keep B pressed while using A for jump in a game like Super Mario Brothers? You all are just looking at this and seeing that B is to the left of A and acting like a miracle occurred, when its just as useless this way thanks to the locations they picked. Its good that the buttons are now not opposite of what they should be, but its hardly an ideal button layout for playing many NES games.
Once again, if the A button had actually been placed where the B button is presently on this unit, and the B button had been placed where BB is (I assume this is a turbo function for B), it would've been perfect and natural to use when playing a side scroller to keep B pressed to run while using A to jump.
I don't think it'll be as bad as you think.
Yes, they're on a bit of an angle, but being in the correct order makes a tremendous difference.
If the buttons are small enough to at least rock your thumb between I'm sure it'll be at the very least passable and at the worst playable after a bit of practice.
In the systems current state it's damned near impossible to cradle the B button and hit A for a jump ... at least 20+ years of doing it the right way makes it impossible to re-learn how to do it backwards.
Sonicwolf
01-31-2009, 06:08 PM
In the systems current state it's damned near impossible to cradle the B button and hit A for a jump ... at least 20+ years of doing it the right way makes it impossible to re-learn how to do it backwards.
I was going to buy the FC Mobile, even with the button worries, just before I found these new Fc Mobile 2 pics. Im glad I looked around first.
80$!?
Who said it'd retail for $80?
My name is Paul and I happen to work for Hyperkin and I was part of the staff that attended CES 2009 and we have never ever mentioned the retail price. We wanted to bring something new to the show so we asked for a prototype. Nothing about the FC Mobile v2.0 is set in stone yet.
I have not seen any discoloration problems on the FC Mobile. The first version worked fine so I don't see why we'd have that sort of problem on the next version.
As for the design, look and features of the FC Mobile v2.0, those are details which are still being worked on. I'm actually looking for feedback and any comments you might have would be appreciated.
Some of the change requests I've heard so far: (I hope this copies and pastes well).
• No reset button, unnecessary.
• Two toned grey with red buttons to match the original Nintendo controller would be great. Since we have four buttons, you may wish to see the beloved Nintendo MAX controller:
o http://www.axess.com/twilight/console/detail/nes_max.jpg
• Get rid of excess markings like the diagonals on the D-pad and the semi-circles around the buttons.
• Screen:
o An option to adjust brightness.
o Recess the screen – prevents glare (I don’t actually understand how that would prevent glare, but they said it and I’m passing it along).
• Oval shaped Select and Start buttons just like the original controller.
• Two speaker slots on each side have fanatics worried we’re going to attempt stereo sound. Attempts to improve the sound on 8bit systems generally tend to fail miserably.
o Most “famiclones” have poor sound. Nobody seems to know why but so far the best sound still comes from the original.
• The D-pad looks the same as the Playstation 1 controller which was generally despised. The PS1 had four individual buttons and attempting to slide between the buttons for full circle or half circle movements would actually cause blisters over time.
o I know the D-pad for the FC Mobile is not made up of four individual buttons, but it certainly looks that way and should be changed
Sabz5150
02-05-2009, 03:25 PM
80$!?
Who said it'd retail for $80?
My name is Paul and I happen to work for Hyperkin and I was part of the staff that attended CES 2009 and we have never ever mentioned the retail price. We wanted to bring something new to the show so we asked for a prototype. Nothing about the FC Mobile v2.0 is set in stone yet.
I have not seen any discoloration problems on the FC Mobile. The first version worked fine so I don't see why we'd have that sort of problem on the next version.
As for the design, look and features of the FC Mobile v2.0, those are details which are still being worked on. I'm actually looking for feedback and any comments you might have would be appreciated.
Some of the change requests I've heard so far: (I hope this copies and pastes well).
• No reset button, unnecessary.
• Two toned grey with red buttons to match the original Nintendo controller would be great. Since we have four buttons, you may wish to see the beloved Nintendo MAX controller:
o http://www.axess.com/twilight/console/detail/nes_max.jpg
• Get rid of excess markings like the diagonals on the D-pad and the semi-circles around the buttons.
• Screen:
o An option to adjust brightness.
o Recess the screen – prevents glare (I don’t actually understand how that would prevent glare, but they said it and I’m passing it along).
• Oval shaped Select and Start buttons just like the original controller.
• Two speaker slots on each side have fanatics worried we’re going to attempt stereo sound. Attempts to improve the sound on 8bit systems generally tend to fail miserably.
o Most “famiclones” have poor sound. Nobody seems to know why but so far the best sound still comes from the original.
• The D-pad looks the same as the Playstation 1 controller which was generally despised. The PS1 had four individual buttons and attempting to slide between the buttons for full circle or half circle movements would actually cause blisters over time.
o I know the D-pad for the FC Mobile is not made up of four individual buttons, but it certainly looks that way and should be changed
Alright, chance to talk to someone close to this thing.
First off, keep the reset button. Some of us like that security blanket with our RPGs. I have lost a game with my Mobile when I didn't hold reset (Crystalis).
Secondly, thank the gods you fixed the button locations! I would argue that the turbos aren't needed, but some may disagree. Whatever cranks yer cheese wheel I suppose.
I highly recommend making the D-Pad resemble the Genesis controller's pad. A plastic disc with indentations. With the Mobile, I can sometimes press left and right at the same time when I slide my thumb between the two real fast (firing behind me), and sometimes that can freak a game out (I can shoot a stationary Metal Blade in Megaman II, can't enter the weapon menu when a shot from a weapon is onscreen, you see why this is bad).
More compatibility is always nice. I know you can't get 100%, but hey... as close as you can get is good for me.
Make sure there isn't much "wiggle room" for the cart... make it fit a bit snug. Sometimes the game will lock when the cart bumps about (and it can crack solder joints).
Well, those are my suggestions :) /soapbox
Thanks for the feedback Sabz5150.
First off, keep the reset button. Some of us like that security blanket with our RPGs. I have lost a game with my Mobile when I didn't hold reset (Crystalis).
Right now the FC Mobile v2.0 has a reset button on the top, next to the cartridge. When I was testing this prototype I accidentally hit it twice (I'm used to using L-R buttons) and on the FC Mobile v1.0 it's far too close to the B-A buttons. So if you want a reset button, let me know where to comfortably put it.
I highly recommend making the D-Pad resemble the Genesis controller's pad. A plastic disc with indentations.
I wanted a classic looking D-pad. While I do think functionality is more important that looks, I do have to consider the shelf appeal.
More compatibility is always nice. I know you can't get 100%, but hey... as close as you can get is good for me.
Famiclones use NOAC technology so we have limitations. We do have a list of games that have always been trouble and we're aiming for about 99% compatibility.
Make sure there isn't much "wiggle room" for the cart... make it fit a bit snug. Sometimes the game will lock when the cart bumps about (and it can crack solder joints).
I didn't even consider this a concern. Since the 72 pin connectors are brand new, it might even be too tight when new.
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 04:00 PM
Any idea on potential release dates?
They told me March but I seriously doubt it.
Even after the FC Mobile v2.0 is released we're going to continue to offer the original. The FC Mobile v2.0 will come with controllers and a gun so expect the cost to be higher.
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 04:09 PM
Any information on the ambiguous Genesis/Megadrive handheld at the CES?
Sure, that unit is going to be called the retroGENmobile and will be licensed by SEGA once we finish haggling over the royalties.
In my opinion it's a superior product because it does come with a decent rechargeable battery and the twenty games built in. But we all know Nintendo dominated the gaming industry in those days and the following for SEGA just isn't as strong.
I can't figure out how to post the picture... damn my feeble mind...
Anyways, the twenty games for the retroGENmobile have not yet been determined. We have a large catalog of games to chose from but SEGA doesn't want us hurting the retro market by plugging in the top sellers.
Comments on that handheld are also appreciated.
Lost in this conversation seems to be the retroGEN.
It's a remake of the original console (supposed to be shaped like Sonic's head but I fail to see it). Comes with twelve games built in and two wireless controllers.
I don't know why SEGA asked us to come out with both products at the same time. I believe the sales for the consoles will suffer with a handheld alternative.
Frankie_Says_Relax
02-05-2009, 04:16 PM
Paul.
I'm (one of the) resident clone system collectors on the boards.
Thanks for taking the time to stop by and give us some potential specs for the FC Mobile 2.
I've got to ask ... were you on board during the development of the FC Mobile 1 ... and if so, what in the world prompted the reverse-button layout?
Games like Punch-Out and Super Mario Bros are downright un-playable with backwards buttons.
While I'm glad to see that that has been corrected in the design (or at least in the prototype) of the FC Mobile 2 ... it also might serve better from an ergonomic/usage standpoint if you level out the buttons instead of having them on SUCH a dramatic angle.
Also, the "discoloration" does happen frequently on-screen and I've seen it happen on multiple FC Mobile units. It's a complete color palette shift where greens become purples and oranges become blues etc. I've never seen it happen on any other Famicom/NES clone that I've ever used ... it can be alleviated by powering the unit down and then back on again.
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 04:17 PM
The idea of a rechargable battery scares me due to eventual battery death. That is unless its pretty generic and has an AC adaptor.
Sabz5150
02-05-2009, 04:23 PM
Also, the "discoloration" does happen frequently on-screen and I've seen it happen on multiple FC Mobile units. It's a complete color palette shift where greens become purples and oranges become blues etc. I've never seen it happen on any other Famicom/NES clone that I've ever used ... it's can be alleviated by powering the unit down and then back on again.
I have seen this as well. Reset the thing about seven or eight times rather quickly... that's guaranteed to make it happen. Sure, that's not "normal use", but it will give you the effect he describes.
I've got to ask ... were you on board during the development of the FC Mobile 1 ... and if so, what in the world prompted the reverse-button layout?
That reverse button layout is a joke around here. Our original design had the buttons in place correctly but some genius at the factory thought he was doing us a huge favor by correcting our mistake.
We still have a large stock of original FC Mobiles so I wouldn't expect the problem to be fixed unless you get a FC Mobile v2.0
The idea of a rechargable battery scares me due to eventual battery death. That is unless its pretty generic and has an AC adaptor.
Don't worry, we'll sell replacement batteries for a gazillion dollars each.:vamp:
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 04:26 PM
Don't worry, we'll sell replacement batteries for a gazillion dollars each.:vamp:
*CRIES*
Ok anyways, I cant wait. My nes games are calling to me for portable awesomeness. That and my Genesis games.
Sabz5150
02-05-2009, 04:27 PM
Right now the FC Mobile v2.0 has a reset button on the top, next to the cartridge. When I was testing this prototype I accidentally hit it twice (I'm used to using L-R buttons) and on the FC Mobile v1.0 it's far too close to the B-A buttons. So if you want a reset button, let me know where to comfortably put it.
I'd recommend putting it about a half inch to an inch to the right of the power button (if the layout is the same as the original Mobile). It keeps it out of normal finger pressing range unless you're holding it in a non-playing fashion.
Frankie_Says_Relax
02-05-2009, 04:47 PM
That reverse button layout is a joke around here. Our original design had the buttons in place correctly but some genius at the factory thought he was doing us a huge favor by correcting our mistake.
We still have a large stock of original FC Mobiles so I wouldn't expect the problem to be fixed unless you get a FC Mobile v2.0
Don't worry, we'll sell replacement batteries for a gazillion dollars each.:vamp:
Sweet, glad to know that you're aware that that was an issue.
I'd say that it's pretty danged important to make sure the factory has some clear instructions this time around.
Must be the same guy who worked at the factory making the OneStation portables ... those suffer from that same problem. ;)
So, even WITH the 20 Genesis/MegaDrive games on-board is the Genesis unit going to have a cartridge slot, or is it just going to be a plug/play type unit with a screen?
Both will have cartridge slots.
Also, I believe SEGA has given us the chipset necessary to play the trouble games like Virtua Racer. So it should have 100% compatibility but until I receive a prototype I'm not making any guarantees.
thom_m
02-05-2009, 05:02 PM
That reverse button layout is a joke around here. Our original design had the buttons in place correctly but some genius at the factory thought he was doing us a huge favor by correcting our mistake
Ha! Priceless! And so, one of the most intriguing mysteries in the history of famiclones is solved! Well, at least one case...
Poor guy. Does he even know about all the hate he has inspired?
Tupin
02-05-2009, 05:14 PM
Both will have cartridge slots.
Also, I believe SEGA has given us the chipset necessary to play the trouble games like Virtua Racer. So it should have 100% compatibility but until I receive a prototype I'm not making any guarantees.
I guess Sega is better with this kind of stuff, are you in similar relations with Nintendo?
Oh, and if I could say something about the retroGEN, the buttons seem to be at a really steep angle. The FC Mobile 2's buttons look fine, though. The system itself looks a little boxier than the original, but as long as it is ergonomic, I'm fine with it.
Nintendo won't even take my calls, they're too busy make revolutionary new items like the Wii Helm:
http://nexus404.com/Blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/nintendo-wii-wiihelm-controller-helmet-v2.jpg
I'll take another look at the retroGENmobile's buttons.
Tupin
02-05-2009, 05:22 PM
Nintendo won't even take my calls, they're too busy make revolutionary new items like the Wii Helm:
http://nexus404.com/Blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/nintendo-wii-wiihelm-controller-helmet-v2.jpg
I'll take another look at the retroGENmobile's buttons.
True, True. LOL
For the retroGENmobile, you're right, the buttons are at a very steep angle.
I still have not received a working prototype so I can't tell you if it's a problem. At the same time, I don't see how we can fit six buttons horizontally without adding another three quarters of an inch. We could make the buttons smaller, but that's not a very good option.
Maybe we'll reduce the number of buttons to three? What do you guys think of that?
Jimid2
02-05-2009, 06:19 PM
Sure, that unit is going to be called the retroGENmobile and will be licensed by SEGA once we finish haggling over the royalties.
In my opinion it's a superior product because it does come with a decent rechargeable battery and the twenty games built in. But we all know Nintendo dominated the gaming industry in those days and the following for SEGA just isn't as strong.
I can't figure out how to post the picture... damn my feeble mind...
Anyways, the twenty games for the retroGENmobile have not yet been determined. We have a large catalog of games to chose from but SEGA doesn't want us hurting the retro market by plugging in the top sellers.
Comments on that handheld are also appreciated.
Well, the Genesis was less popular in Asia, but it ruled Europe and North America for the majority of the 16-bit era, so I would be surprised if you didn't actually realize higher sales of the Genesis machine in these markets, especially if it's licensed by Sega and comes with a collection of built-in games - heck, I'll buy two! I can't really express how much I'm looking forward to this system. And for the record, yes, I do own an FC Mobile - wonderful toy! but I wish the buttons were positioned a little better; I'll probably buy the FC Mobile V.2...
Frankie_Says_Relax
02-05-2009, 06:23 PM
For the retroGENmobile, you're right, the buttons are at a very steep angle.
I still have not received a working prototype so I can't tell you if it's a problem. At the same time, I don't see how we can fit six buttons horizontally without adding another three quarters of an inch. We could make the buttons smaller, but that's not a very good option.
Maybe we'll reduce the number of buttons to three? What do you guys think of that?
I'd say six on an angle is better than three on less of an angle.
ooXxXoo
02-05-2009, 06:34 PM
Hey Paul,
I'm an electrical engineer and I happen to study very closely the internal designs of many clone systems.... Recently(maybe, since a year or two), I've noticed that the quality of the NOAC's out there is getting cheap, making the gameplay not so desirable...For example: awkward palette colors which results in hot/saturated/distorted backgrounds, the solid greens everyone is mostly used to see during gameplay, become fluorescent greens or even yellow, etc...
I don't own a FC mobile yet, but hopefully it doesn't have this issue..
It would be great if you could let your people know about this problem...So, some of us (tech people) don't bash you all system in the end...
......
......
What you've been seeing is a race to the bottom. It happens with every product once low cost competitors enter the field.
Since patents are almost never enforced during overseas manufacturing. What results is the original developer may not always have an edge and has to compete with unethical copycats who are more than willing to copy and reproduce similar products at lower costs. For retailers and distributors that sort of competition just leads to higher margins and they're more than willing to switch suppliers.
Actually... I'm looking at your website and it really interests me. Is it possible for 8bit systems to have clearer pictures with modifications?
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 07:14 PM
Maybe we'll reduce the number of buttons to three? What do you guys think of that?
Keep the number of buttons to match the Genesis arcade 6 button pad. That would be best
Tupin
02-05-2009, 07:53 PM
Another question, the FC Mobile 2 seems boxier than the original. I'm assuming all the pictures we've seen thusfar are prototypes?
We had to squeeze in the infrared sensor, you can expect the v2 to be boxier. The width from version one to version two will be the same.
Edit: It's a bit off-topic but if you guys have reasonable requests for a new product that'll be marketable to the general retro-gaming public I'd be happy to hear those as well.
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 08:37 PM
Suggestion: A dedicated Super Nintendo portable. That would take off and sell like crazy. I would buy several. lol
Suggestion: A dedicated Super Nintendo portable. That would take off and sell like crazy. I would buy several. lol
That's in the works.
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 08:45 PM
That's in the works.
Heres the part where you tell me your not someone impersonating a company worker .. please?.
Tupin
02-05-2009, 08:51 PM
I always thought a TurboGrafx16 clone or a system with TurboGrafx16 compatibility would be cool, but I think it would be hard to do without stealing the design of a PC Engine clone.
Oh, and to post pics, just upload it to your computer and click the paperclip to add attachments.
Anyways, very cool products, I'll be getting them for sure. The only problem is deciding which one to get first. LOL
Sonicwolf
02-05-2009, 09:05 PM
Imagine the future. Nintendo 64 portable *drools*
Taking a system and cramming into a handheld isn't hard, especially when the system has been aged fifteen years or more.
That being said, I still wouldn't expect a handheld SNES anytime soon. We could probably push it out within a year if we really wanted to but there's so many other business factors to consider before doing so.
btw, nobody here mentioned it... but don't the controllers that come with the v2 bother anyone? They look terrible.
Heres the part where you tell me your not someone impersonating a company worker .. please?.
Send me a PM with your e-mail, I'll send you the latest sample pictures.
Sonicwolf
02-06-2009, 02:34 AM
Send me a PM with your e-mail, I'll send you the latest sample pictures.
Will do.
Im glad there is a Genesis/Megadrive portable in the works. It seemed for the longest time that it was being ignored as a viable clone system. The Sega Nomad is just... not good enough for regular use. Its just a massive battery destroyer. The only use I would get out of it would be plugged into the wall-- Then why wouldnt I just bring out my Genesis 3? lol.
I need some information and I know you fanatics will probably know.;)
Besides Virtual Racing, which games have compatibility problems with the SEGA clones? I got the retroGEN console in this morning and I need to do some testing. One person told me that some games have sound problems on newer clones but could not provide me with a list.
btw the boxed in controllers will not be wireless and will be compatible with your original controllers.
thom_m
02-06-2009, 02:25 PM
Tofu, I'm curious about something: how deep is Sega into endorsing the retroGen? Will it come out with a Sega logo/Seal of approvement on it, or are they only giving their veiled support?
And, most important: since you have some back up from Sega...does their contract with Tec Toy here in Brazil (they license them to make consoles/use games, but don't apply their logo anymore) stop the retroGen from being sold here (I mean, considering that our country is even a viable market :))?
Veiled support, expect no marketing on the part of SEGA. All we're going to get is a big SEGA logo on the product.
retroGEN can be marketed outside of North America but we'd have to go back and renegotiate. What's the market like in South America? Any chance you're in the business or know a good distributor?
Another question, the FC Mobile 2 seems boxier than the original. I'm assuming all the pictures we've seen thusfar are prototypes?
I noticed that too. I actually like to look of the first better.
Also, who must the a and b buttons be on a diagnal angle? Why can't they be straight accross like on the NES controllers? The NES Max started this nonsense.
Tupin
02-06-2009, 03:57 PM
Tofu, can I send you a PM with my email address so you can send me the pics?
I believe Tec Toy is basically the Brazillian division of Sega that specializes in Sega-approved Master System clones.
thom_m
02-06-2009, 03:59 PM
Veiled support, expect no marketing on the part of SEGA. All we're going to get is a big SEGA logo on the product.
retroGEN can be marketed outside of North America but we'd have to go back and renegotiate. What's the market like in South America? Any chance you're in the business or know a good distributor?
Unfortunately, I'm not. I asked because, as Tupin said, currently the Genesis and the Master System are STILL in production, made by Tec Toy. However, they have no cart slot, and the price is abusive; the Genesis sells for almost 300 reais (our monetary unit), which is a LOT for an outdated system.
I can't give you any specifics about the retrogaming marketing here...but I DO know that the Genesis is still a beloved system - even by non-gamers. Besides, game collecting is starting to flourish around here - and I know there are other brazilian gamers in this very forum. In MY opinion, a fairly priced Genesis compatible console with a cart slot would sell at least decently. But, since Tec Toy holds the license, I don't know if it's possible.
I can, however, get in contact with a guy who's a big collector here. He must havea much more solid view of the brazilian retro game market. I'll see if I can get some feedback from him.
P.S.: I guess the big SEGA logo by itself is already a big deal :)
Tofu, can I send you a PM with my email address so you can send me the pics?
Sure, that's no problem.
Be forewarned however that the retroGEN Console prototype I received today is making its debut at Toy Fair in New York. So any pictures I send you are just copies of what we've already passed out at CES. They are not to be widely distributed. I think the only difference is we added "Licensed by SEGA" near the top... because a big fat logo wasn't clear enough.
SEGA has allowed other companies to manufacture handhelds before with games built in but to the best of my knowledge this is the first time they've allowed a cartridge handheld. As for Tec-Toy and what they do... I have no information about them and what licenses they hold.
Also, who must the a and b buttons be on a diagnal angle? Why can't they be straight accross like on the NES controllers? The NES Max started this nonsense.
I don't see how angled buttons would be a bad thing. What's the advantage of horizontal buttons?
videogametrader
02-06-2009, 04:27 PM
I look forward to seeing the FC Mobile 2 and the Genesis handheld. In the next issue of VGTrader Mike from Collectors Cards and Games reviewed the FC Mobile.
Tom
I don't do marketing, that's another department. I hope to someday be the guy hyping up everything positive about our products and flatly denying any problems that evil baby-stomping journalists make up.
Leo_A
02-06-2009, 04:58 PM
I think you need to reconsider your button layout. A game like Super Mario Brothers isn't going to work well on that thing. Either kill the turbo buttons and not make it diagonal, or modify it in the following manner so games that require keeping B pressed to do something such as run while using A for action commands, are actually playable.
Your current layout is almost as flawed as having A and B backwards, like your prior handheld was. The state its in now, I'll be skipping over it and I think you'll find people become pretty discontented with it once they buy one and realize the button layout doesn't make sense for many games.
I think you need to reconsider your button layout. A game like Super Mario Brothers isn't going to work well on that thing. Either kill the turbo buttons and not make it diagonal, or modify it in the following manner so games that require keeping B pressed to do something such as run while using A for action commands, are actually playable.
Your current layout is almost as flawed as having A and B backwards, like your prior handheld was. The state its in now, I'll be skipping over it and I think you'll find people become pretty discontented with it once they buy one and realize the button layout doesn't make sense for many games.
I am no fan of diagnal buttons, but if they absolutely MUST have them, they did it right. They have the first button (B), while the second button (A) is slightly above and to the right. This is consistant with the first NES controller to use diagnals, the NES Max. Your way features the buttons in the correct order, but diagnals backwards.
NES Max:
http://www.axess.com/twilight/console/detail/nes_max.jpg
Sonicwolf
02-06-2009, 05:18 PM
Either of these would suffice.
Tupin
02-06-2009, 05:30 PM
I'm a fan of the first one Sonicwolf posted. THAT would be my preferred layout.
Anything but putting the turbo buttons directly above the normal ones, that would suck.
But yeah, keep turbo. But what about using switches/sliders for turbo rather than having two more buttons? Would that work? If you do that, just do it the way you have it now, but with the switches directly above the buttons so the buttons can be horizontal.
Sonic Wolf sent me a e-mail earlier this afternoon on this very subject. My personal view is to kill off the turbo buttons but I do like Sonic Wolf's idea:
2110
I've also reviewed the Nintendo Max controller and it does intrigue me. How's the D-Pad on the Nintendo Max, was it any good?