In a nutshell: Sega earlier this yr introduced it could be launching a follow-up to its authentic Genesis Mini retro console. The new mini can be based mostly on the Genesis Model 2 and can include over 50 pre-installed retro video games however as was revealed in July, US distribution is a little bit of a large number and we now have a greater understanding of why that’s.
In a press release to Ars Technica, a Sega of Japan rep instructed the publication that the brand new miniaturized console was actually a “Japan-only mission.” Sega ultimately determined to do a Genesis Mini 2 for Western audiences however mentioned the system might solely be produced in small numbers because of the international semiconductor scarcity.
Sega of Japan mentioned the variety of Genesis Mini 2 consoles manufactured will equal one-tenth the whole manufacturing of the unique Genesis Mini. We do not know what number of Genesis Minis have been produced so it is arduous to quantify manufacturing capability. Still, one-tenth is considerably much less regardless of the way you slice it.
This being a Japan-only mission explains why events in North America need to import the Genesis Mini 2. It is just being offered by means of an Amazon itemizing at an inflated worth and with a supply payment of $21.99. As of writing, NA patrons should shell out $128.64 plus any relevant taxes to have the mini console shipped over from Japan.
That’s far more than the unique’s $79.99 worth out of the gate however is not far off what new-in-box examples are at present commanding on eBay.
The Genesis Mini 2 will ship with greater than 50 pre-installed video games together with OutRun, Virtua Racing and Vectorman 2 in addition to a handful of Sega CD titles like Sonic CD and Mansion of Hidden Souls. I personally do not suppose the library is as robust as what debuted with the unique mini console however there are some gems I’d like to play, and the machine itself would make a pleasant addition to my mini console assortment.
It launches on October 27.
