Buying Sega Master System?

[ReTrO-pLaYeR]

I'm thinking about buying a Master System but I need to consider a few things as my budget isn't the best and my mom will kill me for buying yet another system (I already have NES, SNES, Gamecube, PS2, DS at age 14 :x) just because I gotta "buy more games/cartridges for it + damn addons". Is the Master System a fairly cheap console to afford, including a bit of its game library? What major games should I get for it first (WonderBoy and Alex Kidd are all I can think of for now) if I buy it? Is it difficult to obtain complete copies or like the NES will you have to hunt hard for the boxes and manuals? Thanks!

[ReTrO-pLaYeR]

Ooops, stupid me this is the modern section isn't it? Sorry mods for creating extra work for you (moving this to classic gaming)

[Cornelius]

It is pretty inexpensive to collect for, relatively speaking. Also, you have a much better chance of getting complete copies since they came in hard cases like the Genesis. Most games worth playing really aren't very expensive at all, around $10 or so. Golden Axe Warrior being one exception, as it is considered one of the best on the system (a Zelda-style game) and it runs more in the 30-40 range last time I checked.

If you keep your eyes out on Craigslist you should be able to find one with some games for 30 or so. The come along a lot less often than NES/SNES/Genesis systems, though.

[ReTrO-pLaYeR]

It is pretty inexpensive to collect for, relatively speaking. Also, you have a much better chance of getting complete copies since they came in hard cases like the Genesis. Most games worth playing really aren't very expensive at all, around $10 or so. Golden Axe Warrior being one exception, as it is considered one of the best on the system (a Zelda-style game) and it runs more in the 30-40 range last time I checked.

If you keep your eyes out on Craigslist you should be able to find one with some games for 30 or so. The come along a lot less often than NES/SNES/Genesis systems, though.

Thanks, although I'm not sure I'll be doing Craigslist because I have no money in the common paper form. I'm going to be trading in games at a store, and they do have a SMS from what I recall but I am not sure how much it'll cost and if it comes bundeled with games or not. The SMS II however comes built in with Alex Kidd, yes?

[todesengel]

Some of the original model 1 SMS sytems have a game built in as well, mine has Hang On & Safari Hunt, but yeah if I'm remembering correctly the SMS 2 has Alex Kidd.

[Blur2040]

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[whoisKeel]

OK,

Master System is a hoot and all...but why go for that when you can get a Genesis where you'll find cheaper and more plentiful hardware, cheaper and more plentiful games, and the ability to play SMS games with a Power Base converter.

Genesis may not be obscure or anything, but it's a much better place to start. Better software too, in my opinion. Seriously. It's hard to collect video games and not own a Genesis. I'm tripping over the damn things.

I agree with this. I don't own a Master System, so I cannot attest to its greatness. But I can tell you, I hardly ever see SMS games in the wild (though when I do, they are often in their hard box/case). There's so many great Genesis games, and so cheap, and so readily available.

Genny + 6-pak, go for it.

[j_factor]

I have a Master System, but it's away in storage because the Power Base Converter works just as well.

But as has been said already, if you're looking for a fairly cheap console with fairly cheap games that are easily obtained complete, you're really better off with a Genesis anyway. Genesis has a larger library, better games (arguable, but I think most would agree), and games and systems are more plentiful. That and PSX are the two best systems for cheap, complete games.

However, if you just really crave another 8-bit system, SMS is a good choice, as the vast majority of the library is reasonably priced, and it's pretty easy to find games complete. However, you'll have fewer sources of games, and you might find yourself buying games from Europe, which is a trade-off because they're generally very cheap, but shipping can be a bit high.

[swlovinist]

Get both :). If you start with a Genesis, you can always go back and get the converter and play master system games. Also, there is the Sega CD and Sega 32X which are add-ons to the Genesis that are unique in their own right and fun to collect.

I agree that the Genesis is the way to go

[InsaneDavid]

If you go the Genesis + Power Base Converter route, be sure to own at least one Master System control pad since there are a couple games that will not work without an SMS controller connected. Wonder Boy in Monster Land comes to mind as one of them.

[Gameguy]

Master System is a hoot and all...but why go for that when you can get a Genesis where you'll find cheaper and more plentiful hardware, cheaper and more plentiful games, and the ability to play SMS games with a Power Base converter.
I've heard that some SMS games can't save properly when played on a Genesis with a Power Base Converter, is this true? It's pretty much the only reason why I'm holding onto an actual SMS system, I haven't really found too many games for it that I really want, I just want to get Phantasy Star and Golden Axe Warrior at some point.

I agree that the Genesis is a better system to get overall as the games are way easier to find and I find most of them much better to play too.

[grolt]

The SMS is a vastly underrated system, and the feedback in this thread proves it! I don't think you need an SMS though, a PBC with a Genesis is a better investment, but don't doubt that there are a ton of great games on the system. Buy a few lots, the ratio of good games to bad is probably one of the best compared to any other system.

Phantasy Star and Golden Axe Warrior are obvious quality picks, but here are other must haves:

Golvellius: Valley of Doom
Kenseiden
Wonder Boy games
Alex Kidd games
Fantasy Zone games
Enduro Racer
Power Strike
Cloud Master
Sonic the Hedgehog (completely different than the Genesis game - I like the levels better on SMS)
The Ninja
Penguin Land
Zillion
Ys: The Vanished Omens
SpellCaster
Lord of the Sword
Astro Warrior
Thunder Blade (a much better port than the Genesis version)

And that's US only, if you look into Europe or Brazil, there are many more great games out there (like Master of Darkness, Virtua Fighter Animation, etc.)

Good luck!

[Push Upstairs]

I will say that the MS light gun is far, far better than the Zapper. Not as cheap and flimsy.


I'm not above a bit of self promotion, but I am currently trying to sell/trade a Power Base Converter lot, which includes a Phaser. :angel:

[Gamingking]

I picked mine up on Craiglist, Came with two controllers and nine games for $50. Keep a eye out on there.

[Ed Oscuro]

To be "really serious" about your SMS games you really ought to go the Japanese Master System route. Looks like a US SMS...probably smells like one too - same Tonka style box - but you get FM music in a few games. Not really more expensive than the Mark III + FM unit addon I bet, and easier to deal with overall. I've had a Power Base Converter for years, never bothered with it though.

[allyourblood]

...Golden Axe Warrior being one exception, as it is considered one of the best on the system (a Zelda-style game) and it runs more in the 30-40 range last time I checked...


:eek 2:

I just picked this up a couple weeks ago. I had no idea it was worth more than a couple bucks. I must confess I haven't had time to try it yet, either. Zelda-style you say? I'll have to check this out soon. Thanks!

[mastamuzz]

no one says anything about shinobi, that is the only reason I got one (actually I have 2 systems, one with hang on and safari hunt and the other with sonic built in) and games are pretty expensive here in Vancouver I think is a must have here!

I agree with everyone here start on the Genesis side cause most of us are driven by nostalgia more than anything else if you are 14 probably you will be disappointed with the system, remember no memory cards, most didn't have a save option, that means you are ps1 to ps2 generation when you started playing, and I know how hard it is to buy games at your age, also don't get rid of your games to get others if you are serious on collecting, I lost many gems that way when I was on your situation and now I regret it!

[UnpluggedClone]

Google 4 Gaga

[Arkhan]

To be "really serious" about your SMS games you really ought to go the Japanese Master System route. Looks like a US SMS...probably smells like one too - same Tonka style box - but you get FM music in a few games. Not really more expensive than the Mark III + FM unit addon I bet, and easier to deal with overall. I've had a Power Base Converter for years, never bothered with it though.

cause 14 year olds trading stuff in at a local shop have access to import systems and all.

:D



Anyway, OP: Get a genesis. Much better investment in the end. Power base converter = play SMS games, get a Sega CD later....there is almost no reason to get a SMS unless you want the unit itself for its appearance. That was why I got one. I like the pyramid-like shape, and the overall design of the console.

Anyway, with a genesis + pbc youll be set. Then you can get a 32X also! and have a giant mess of Sega going on. all on the cheapcheap.

[segagamer]

I sold my SMS system once I bought the Genesis and the Power Base Converter, as I did not see the point of having two separate systems for my TV, which at the time only had one A/V input. I kept all of my SMS games and they are all playable on it (I did not own F-16 Falcon, the only game not to work on PBC). I have also kept the 3D glasses, Light Phaser, Control Stick and 2 Control Pads for the games that require SMS controllers to play properly.

[jb143]

Some of the original model 1 SMS sytems have a game built in as well, mine has Hang On & Safari Hunt, but yeah if I'm remembering correctly the SMS 2 has Alex Kidd.

Mine just has some lame maze game :(

[ShinobiMan]

Mine just has some lame maze game :(

That game is not lame! It's my claim to fame! Between you and me, it puts Sonic to shame!

Seriously, I once was extremely addicted and skilled at the SMS maze game. I'm afraid to play it again... It won't be pretty.

[jb143]

That game is not lame! It's my claim to fame! Between you and me, it puts Sonic to shame!

Seriously, I once was extremely addicted and skilled at the SMS maze game. I afraid to play it again... It won't be pretty.

Well, when I was hoping for something better and instead got something I could have programmed myself in Jr. High, I was a little disappointed. It did, however, give me the opportunity to test the system before I had any games, which most systems don't do.

[ubersaurus]

I'll echo the sentiment that getting a 1st model Genesis and the Power Base Converter is your best bet for Master System gaming. Access to the full Genesis library, and nearly all of the SMS library with a minimum of space and power supplies! Just make sure it's a 1st model genny - PBC doesn't fit on the 2nd without some case modding.

[sixwayshot]

I've got a Master System. I enjoy it. But, compared to a lot of my other consoles, it's effin' huge. It's roughly the size of the Model 1 Genesis.

If you want my opinion, I'd say you should get a Genesis and the Power Base Converter. I actually don't have a PBC, but I do know I'd use it if I did. The only game, to my knowledge, that won't work with the PBC is F-16 Fighting Falcon, one of the Sega Cards. It's not that good a game and I doubt you'd want to play it too much.

But, like InsaneDavid said, you should definitely try and snag a SMS controller if you get a PBC, because games like Wonder Boy In Monster Land and Alien Syndrome won't work on the PBC without it.

Also, PAL SMS games can be played on NTSC consoles. The carts are identical, for the most part. I got a copy of Desert Speedtrap from Play N Trade and I didn't even know it was a PAL copy until I looked it up online.

[mobiusclimber]

^ Same here. I bought Ultima IV w/o realizing it was an EU exclusive. There's a few cool EU games, and considering how small the SMS library is, it's worth it to track em down.

[PresidentLeever]

Like a few others have said, you're better off with a Genesis and PCB combo. I strongly advice against getting a JP SMS because the FM chip in it really isn't that great. The only example I can think of where it sounds better is the BIOS screen which has a Space Harrier theme remix using both the FM and PSG chips. No actual games did this though.

Good games:

Wonder Boy III
Alex Kidd in Miracle World & Shinobi World
Fantasy Zone 2
Land of Illusion
Castle of Illusion
Phantasy Star
Solomon's Key
R-Type
Shinobi
Golvellius: Valley of Doom
Kenseiden
Power Strike 2
Lucky Dime Caper starring Donald Duck
Bubble Bobble
Sonic the Hedgehog (avoid the sequels though)
Zillion
Ninja Gaiden
Jurassic Park
Asterix
Montezuma's Revenge
Choplifter
Penguin Land (this one requires an SMS joypad)
Road Rash
Enduro Racer (JP version has more levels)
Rambo: First Blood Part 2
Deep Duck Trouble
Renegade
Super Space Invaders
Wimbledon 2
The Ninja
Space Harrier 3D
Outrun 3D
Missile Defense 3D
Pit Pot / Astro Warrior

Lightgun:
Gangster Town
Laser Ghost
Rescue Mission
Trap Shooting / Safari Hunt

Most games are very inexpensive, even the best ones. Power Strike 2 is one exception, but it's worth it.

[Emuaust]

I love the sms, although to be far the bulk of the great games released for the system where released outside of america, check out this thread for some ideas:

http://www.digitpress.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1484

[colicub]

I always end up recommending the first Asterix, The New Zealand Story, and Ninja Gaiden (hey, I like the SMS version!) but I'm pretty sure all 3 are PAL exclusives.

There is also the problem of finding a PBC, in my experience they're a lot rarer than an SMS.

[Emuaust]

Who thinks Ninja Gaiden sms is bad? the master system version is fantastic!

[PSony]

I have a model 1 Genesis with model 1 Sega CD and PBC attached. If I want to play 32X games, I just take off the PBC and swap two av cables. Pretty convenient. Genesis is the way to go.

[Arkhan]

Who thinks Ninja Gaiden sms is bad? !



Idiots!

[A Black Falcon]

Yeah, I agree with many here that the Genesis is definitely the system to get. Genesis systems are easy to find and cheap, while SMS systems will cost more and are much rarer. Genesis games are extremely common and are, I would say, probably the cheapest overall of any system from the third generation or beyond. Genesis games just aren't expensive; even NES games often cost more, and SNES games usually do. On the other hand, while SMS games aren't too expensive, they're fairly uncommon unless you import from Europe, so finding more won't be easy. Many games, including all SMS games released between mid 1991 and the system's final releases in 1995 or so, are also Europe-only releases. Meanwhile the Genesis has a huge library of good, interesting games that are easy to find.

I mean, sure, the SMS is a decent system with some good games. But compared to the Genesis? There's no question which is better, and which is more worth having.

And of course, model 1 Genesises ("High Resolution Graphics" model 1 Genesies are the best kind to get, anyway, for the best graphics and sound) can use the Power Base Converter to play SMS games right on your Genesis... if all you can find is a model 2 though go ahead and get it, Genesises aren't hard to find or expensive so just pick up a High Resolution Graphics model when you can if you like it. I actually like the look of the model 2 better, particularly with the model 2 Sega CD attached to it, but any of them are good, really. Yes, the earlier model 1s have better sound, but while it is worse the sound from model 2s isn't THAT bad... just not quite as good.

[Brianvgplayer]

Like a few others have said, you're better off with a Genesis and PCB combo. I strongly advice against getting a JP SMS because the FM chip in it really isn't that great. The only example I can think of where it sounds better is the BIOS screen which has a Space Harrier theme remix using both the FM and PSG chips. No actual games did this though.

JP SMS does have the extra SG-1000 support, though. I feel it's worth it for that and the alternate versions of Black Belt and Enduro Racer at least (I may be biased since I found a JP SMS bundled with a bunch of cart only SMS and SG-1000 games (I think about 18 games), including Enduro Racer, Zaxxon SG-1000, Final Bubble Bobble, Phantasy Star, and Hotuko no Ken). Then again, the colors are a bit off, but it's also a way to play them in composite rather than RF. I also like how most US/EU games work with it when using an adapter, including a few US/EU only games with FM sound like Time Soldiers.



Good games:

Wonder Boy III
Alex Kidd in Miracle World & Shinobi World
Fantasy Zone 2
Land of Illusion
Castle of Illusion
Phantasy Star
Solomon's Key
R-Type
Shinobi
Golvellius: Valley of Doom
Kenseiden
Power Strike 2
Lucky Dime Caper starring Donald Duck
Bubble Bobble
Sonic the Hedgehog (avoid the sequels though)
Zillion
Ninja Gaiden
Jurassic Park
Asterix
Montezuma's Revenge
Choplifter
Penguin Land (this one requires an SMS joypad)
Road Rash
Enduro Racer (JP version has more levels)
Rambo: First Blood Part 2
Deep Duck Trouble
Renegade
Super Space Invaders
Wimbledon 2
The Ninja
Space Harrier 3D
Outrun 3D
Missile Defense 3D
Pit Pot / Astro Warrior

Lightgun:
Gangster Town
Laser Ghost
Rescue Mission
Trap Shooting / Safari Hunt

Most games are very inexpensive, even the best ones. Power Strike 2 is one exception, but it's worth it.

Nice list. I'll like to add that a the games listed as requiring the SMS joypad work with Genesis controllers in JP mode, oddly enough. It's the same results on a PBC with a region switched Genesis or a JP SMS. No FM sound on the PBC, but I found that to be an advantage with some games (I like the FM sound for many of them, though).

Here's some more that I like:
Bomber Raid (requires SMS pad in US mode, but fine with Genesis pad in JP mode)
Captain Silver (JP or EU, US one is badly cut down)
California Games (actually has pretty good FM too)
Double Dragon
Fantasy Zone
Fantasy Zone the Maze/Opa Opa
Gain Ground
Great Baseball (US, don't have the JP one, which is different)
Hang On
Hotuko no Ken (I like this better than the Black Belt version)
Marble Madness
Missile Defense 3D (light gun)
OutRun
Psycho Fox
Quartet/Double Target
Rambo III (light gun)
Rampage (for 2p)
Shooting Gallery (light gun)
Space Harrier
Time Soldiers
Wonder Boy
Wonder Boy in Monster Land
World Gran Prix/The Circuit
Zaxxon 3D

[Az]

I'll like to add that a the games listed as requiring the SMS joypad work with Genesis controllers in JP mode, oddly enough. It's the same results on a PBC with a region switched Genesis or a JP SMS.

I'm sure this has been listed before, but the PBC manual says these US titles require a SMS pad:
Great Volleyball
Shanghai
Alien Syndrome
Wonder Boy in Monster Land
Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?
Bomber Raid

Also, there are PBC revisions that work on a model 2 Genesis/MD, along with Tototek's PBC that will also work with Mark III games.

[MarioMania]

What store do you have close by??

[Brianvgplayer]

I'm sure this has been listed before, but the PBC manual says these US titles require a SMS pad:
Great Volleyball
Shanghai
Alien Syndrome
Wonder Boy in Monster Land
Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?
Bomber Raid

Also, there are PBC revisions that work on a model 2 Genesis/MD, along with Tototek's PBC that will also work with Mark III games.

I'm aware of those games, but I have a modded Genesis 1 and a Japanese SMS with Tototek SMS-Mark III adapter. It may sound like odd to you that Bomber Raid, Penguin Land, and Wonder Boy in Monster Land (I don't have the others, so I can't confirm them) are playable in Japanese mode with a Genesis controller when the Genesis controller won't work with the games in English mode, but this comes from personal experience with playing the games.

Other games that have problems with the Genesis controller in English mode (I have yet to confirm these for JP mode, aside from Penguin Land) that aren't on the list:
Montezuma's Revenge
Tennis Ace
Penguin Land



What store do you have close by??

Are you asking me? I have done most of my SMS ordering online at places like ebay, Blue Rose Video Games (http://www.bluerosevideogames.com), and eStarland (http://www.estarland.com). I have found a place about 30-45 minutes away called Power Gamer in Glen Burnie, but they only had a couple SMS games. The pricing is very strange there too. I recently scored a complete Shooting Gallery there for about $3.99, though.

[Az]

It may sound like odd to you that Bomber Raid, Penguin Land, and Wonder Boy in Monster Land (I don't have the others, so I can't confirm them) are playable in Japanese mode with a Genesis controller when the Genesis controller

I didn't post that implying you were incorrect, but only as a list that was on the official documentation since all previous posts only mentioned Penguin Land.

Has anyone determined what the technical reason is behind those games working in J mode?