As I’ve noted in previous reviews, my early computing experiences revolved around the Atari 1040 STe, leading me to miss out on many iconic video games of the 80s and 90s. Consequently, I’m only now catching up on these classic titles. My Nintendo Switch has been seeing a lot of use, and the announcement of Sega Mega Drive Classics for the Switch was welcome news. We previously discussed this collection on the senses Youtube channel upon its release for Xbox One and Playstation 4 this spring. Here are some observations specific to the Nintendo Switch version, released on December 7th.
The game presents a virtual room, complete with era-appropriate posters, a CRT TV, and a Sega Megadrive. Gameplay involves selecting a cartridge and starting the game. Titles can be chosen from a menu, and the emulator offers fast-forward functionality for skipping cutscenes, as well as a reliable save and load feature for recovering from mistakes. While some may consider it an advantage, its use is optional.
A notable detail is the ability to change the time of day within the room, altering the lighting and background view.
Regarding the games themselves, the selection is generally strong. As with most compilations, the quality varies, with some titles standing out as classics, such as Altered Beast, Bonanza Brothers, and Sonic the Hedgehog.
The collection also includes lesser-known titles like Comix Zone and Landstalker. As with any collection of retro games, not every title has aged equally well, and some may not hold the player’s attention from beginning to end. There’s a decent variety of genres, ranging from puzzle to fighting games. However, the omission of certain entries in established series is somewhat disappointing. For example, Shinobi III and Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi are present, but the earlier games in the series are absent. The same applies to Virtua Fighter, with only the second installment included (likely due to the original not being officially released on the Mega Drive).
The save/load function offers convenience, albeit potentially diminishing the challenge for some players.
While Sonic (parts one and two, plus other entries) and Streets of Rage (parts one through three), and VectorMan (one and two) are included, the lack of complete series representation feels somewhat incomplete. It gives the impression that certain popular titles are being withheld for separate distribution, as exemplified by the availability of the original Shinobi as a standalone download on Xbox One.
The fast-forward feature proves useful for skipping less engaging sections in certain titles.
The collection offers online multiplayer functionality, which can be enjoyable. Be prepared for some skilled competition, however.
I primarily play these games in handheld mode, as the pixelated visuals can appear somewhat overwhelming on a large display. While various settings allow for pixel smoothing and blending, I find that these options don’t significantly enhance the experience on a TV.
The “Pixel Bleeding” feature offers minimal improvement to the visual fidelity.
The graphics are generally acceptable as they are, and perfectly playable on a larger screen, but these games were originally designed for smaller displays. Personally, I find the experience more comfortable in handheld mode. There is also the option to simulate the scanlines of older CRT televisions, providing an authentic retro aesthetic. However, I find this setting less appealing, as it overly emphasizes the limitations of the original technology.
VectorMan has become a personal favorite due to its engaging gameplay and fluid animation.
In conclusion, Sega Mega Drive Classics is a worthwhile compilation. For a reasonable price, it provides access to a substantial library of classic 16-bit games in their original pixelated form, making it an ideal collection for those seeking a nostalgic experience.
Complete list of included games:
- Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle
- Alien Soldier
- Alien Storm
- Altered Beast
- Beyond Oasis
- Bio-Hazard Battle
- Bonanza Bros.
- Columns
- Columns III: Revenge of Columns
- Comix Zone
- Crack Down
- Decap Attack
- Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine
- Dynamite Headdy
- ESWAT: City Under Siege
- Fatal Labyrinth
- Flicky
- Gain Ground
- Galaxy Force II
- Golden Axe
- Golden Axe II
- Golden Axe III
- Gunstar Heroes
- Kid Chameleon
- Landstalker
- Light Crusader
- Phantasy Star II
- Phantasy Star III: Generations of Doom
- Phantasy Star IV: The End of the Millenium
- Ristar
- Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi
- Shining Force
- Shining Force II
- Shining in the Darkness
- Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master
- Sonic 3D Blast
- Sonic Spinball
- Sonic the Hedgehog
- Sonic the Hedgehog 2
- Space Harrier II
- Streets of Rage
- Streets of Rage 2
- Streets of Rage 3
- Super Thunder Blade
- Sword of Vermilion
- The Revenge of Shinobi
- ToeJam & Earl in Panic on Funkotron
- ToeJam& Earl
- Vectorman
- VectorMan 2
- Virtua Fighter 2
