Possibly getting a Genesis model 3, got some questions.

[dbiersdorf]

Well I've found a great deal on a SEGA Genesis model 3, but I have some questions concerning it.

First off is it compatible with the 32x and the SEGA CD? I've heard that it isn't, and that'd be a pretty big let down. Second is there any obvious reasons, or features of why this unit is better then the others? I really like the look (and the size), and would never dream of buying the ugly version 1 again. Aside from a different look is there any benefits over previous models?

Any other useful information is welcome as well. Thanks in advance.

[Dimitri]

I've heard it can be made to work with the 32X (not sure on that) but it definitely won't work with the Sega CD, as it doesn't have the expansion port. The first and third model systems are also far easier to region mod than the second model ones.

[SuperShark]

Dimitri I believe has answered your questions as best as possible.

The only advantages to the model 3 is that it is smaller and cooler looking, it was also cheeper than the others when origionaly sold. It was an attempt to get the last of the buyers that Sega thought that they could get for the Sega Genesis.

[stuffedmonkey]

Even though it's not compatible with the CD system and the 32x, I still want one. I love the design - I'm a sucker for cool hardware. I've never had a Genesis before... but eventually I want to get Gunstar Heroes and a few others....

Besides, I am not looking for sega cd games, nor 32x carts.

[MegaDrive20XX]

And I'd like to add, that GameGenie will not work on Genesis 3 as well

[Charlesaway]

Also, though not specifically asked, the power base converter (that allows master system games to be played) does not work with the model 3 either.

[Wavelflack]

The Teleplay modem also does not work with it, nor does the Sega Channel, nor does the Colecovision system changer.

[Gamemaster_ca_2003]

The Teleplay modem also does not work with it, nor does the Sega Channel, nor does the Colecovision system changer.

Humm Never heard of the CV System changer

and why do people want a genny 3 if nothing will work for it.

[Wavelflack]

I think it's actually the "expansion module 3", or something.

Anyway, I was just adding to the things that can't be used with a G3, since the list was stacking up.


People want them because they look cool, are tiny, and are part of the genesis lineage.

[Aussie2B]

The Genesis 3 is about as cheap ass as they get. Believe it or not, it was my first Genesis. I guess I was one of those saps they were trying to market it to who didn't already have one and fell for the $20 price tag. As soon as it came out of the box, I had problems with it, and the picture and sound quality BLOWS. I used it for quite awhile so I became very familiar with its flaws. These days I have every model of the Genesis, and it's the Genesis 1 that I keep hooked up for regular use.

Basically, the only things that are good about the Genesis 3 is that it's small and supposedly you can play many Japanese imports on it due to its wider slot. Other than that, the older models are better, and if you're really into the smaller size, you'd be better off with a CDX.

[SkiDragon]

Does the Genesis 3 output stereo sound?

[Push Upstairs]

From what i have heard, only mono sound.

[DigitalSpace]

Add Virtua Racing to the list of stuff that won't work with a Genesis 3. Also, it was made by Majesco and lacks the z80 processor.

It's nice to show off, but I'd go with one of the other models if you only intend to own one Genesis console.

[EnemyZero]

i still have one brand new in a box sitting on my shelf, i never cared much for them since there so small but yeah they def. wont hook up to 32x or CD

[WanganRunner]

I've got a boxed, complete one, and I'm pretty happy with it.

It's definitely not a replacement either of the other two models (I have yet to get a model 1), but it is certainly a neat little piece of hardware, and it's still fairly easy to snap up a complete, boxed, or even brand new one at a low price. Why not do it?

[goatdan]

I've used one, and it is all right if you never plan on doing anything else with it. As already mentioned, it was the re-release by Majesco and is missing a bunch of stuff so it doesn't work with that much. Out of curiousity, does anyone know if it works with the stuff from Accolade? I know Gene 2's didn't...

The size is cool and the picture quality, while worse than a Gene 1 or 2 isn't that bad.

If the deal on it was cheap, grab it. If nothing else you can resell it for a decent price now. If the deal on it is more expensive than a 1 or 2, wait and get those.

Even though you think the 1 is ugly by the way, they are the best when it comes to running everything properly. You need a 1 without the TMSS screen to be able to run everything for the Genesis flawlessly.

If you want something small and cool and Gene-related, go for the CD-X. I have one of those

[dbiersdorf]

Yikes, I didn't realize it had so many faults, I was going to buy if off appearance alone.

Ok now I ask this then, what about the Genesis 2? I really, REALLY don't want to play on the original Genesis, because it could be the ugliest system ever made, and at least Genny 2 was somewhat attractive to look at. I know it hooks up to the the 32x and SEGA CD (right?) which is a big plus, but anything else that it has of pros and cons compared to its other counterparts?

[Algol]

I know it hooks up to the the 32x and SEGA CD (right?) which is a big plus, but anything else that it has of pros and cons compared to its other counterparts?

The first model Sega CD (designed to sit under model 1 Genesis) won't work on a model 2 Genesis. There are also a few very early third party games which work only on a model 1 Genesis. I think the model 2 also has stereo sound, while you need headphones on the model 1.

[WanganRunner]

I love the look of the original Megadrive, it has sort of the same angular, early 90's futuristic aesthetic as the Core Grafx + Super CD. Looks badass.

I still don't have one, something I have to eventually remedy. I think the Megadrive 1 + Sega CD 1 looks the coolest out of the assorted options.

EDIT: Aside from like a Wondermega or Multimega or something like that.

[Dimitri]

I love the look of the original Megadrive, it has sort of the same angular, early 90's futuristic aesthetic as the Core Grafx + Super CD. Looks badass.

Agreed. The second model systems just look flimsy and weak to me. The original system has a very pleasing angular design. Plus it's not completely jet black.

Also, the original model is the only one that works with a few unlicensed EA (who'da thunk it?) carts -- Budokan and Zany Golf I'm sure of, plus I believe there's another but I can't for the life of me find it in the guide. :/