Alongside console legends like the NES, Atari, and even its 90s rival, the SNES, the Sega Genesis is one of the most beloved gaming systems ever released. Console wars come and go with the decades and they will till the end of time, but that doesn't mean the classics of a bygone era can't be enjoyed by modern gamers today.
Granted, a full Sega Genesis and its collection of cartridges aren't as accessible as it once was, but there are still many modern methods to scratch that retro gaming itch. For those wanting one more run through the Green Hill Zone, they'll find some way to recapture the Genesis experience.
10 Dust Off the Original
The Sega Genesis was one of the most successful gaming systems in history, so it's no surprise that so many units can be found on online auctions for as low as $55. With over 30 million units sold at its original release date, an original system is easy to find. If that wasn't a good enough deal, a few original systems are being sold with a cartridge copy of Sonic the Hedgehog just as they did back in the 90s. As the saying goes, seek and ye shall find.
9 Online Emulators
PC gaming is arguably the largest field in the industry, so it makes sense that there are dozens upon dozens of emulators, programs, and other ways to bring Sega Genesis games from the console to the computer.
Recommended emulator programs for Sega titles include Gens, Genesis Plus, and Kega Fusion (the most popular option) are designed for those who don't readily have access to physical hardware. For players not wanting to download online emulation programs, there's an app for that.
8 Download the Apps
Jumping from PC to Mac, there are plenty of Sega genesis titles readily available in app form, sometimes even for free. As of now, Apple currently offers many Sega Genesis titles for iPad and iPhone at the push of a button. Currently, such titles include the likes of Sonic the Hedgehog, Golden Axe, Space Harrier, and even Phantasy Star. While tablet and phone might not be the most popular gaming methods, they still serve a purpose and can get your retro fix in a pinch
7 All-In-One Consoles
It might be a cheap alternative to the proper hardware, but for gamers on a budget, sometimes one either has to make do or do without. There are loads of store-brand and knock off plug-and-play consoles that are better for one's wallet, but with quality always a gamble.
Products like the Retro-bit or the Minigen might look sleek and inviting on Amazon, but as with all off-brand merch, buyer beware.
6 “Modern” Retro Consoles
Since retro gaming is a popular pastime for many players new and old, there has been an increase in new consoles that play vintage cartridges. There are many that play a multitude of cartridge games, including Sega Genesis ones, but then there are also modern twists on the old classic like the Analog Mega Sg or even Sega's own Genesis Flashback to replace a dust-ridden console. For truly dedicated players, there are systems like the upcoming Polymega that can handle nearly any cartridge a player could ever want, Genesis included.
5 The Sega Genesis Mini
Along with other developers like Nintendo, Atari, and NeoGeo, the Sega Genesis also got a mini console release packed with a fine selection of titles from the system's heyday. It might be small but it is mighty, and it packs quite a few classics along with it.
Nearly every compilation will include standbys like the Sonic games and puzzle titles like Puyo Puyo, but this little beauty also features the likes of Ecco the Dolphin, Castlevania: The Adventure, and Toejam and Earl for those tired of hedgehogs and rings.
4 3DS Eshop
Although they recently stopped producing one of their most popular consoles, the Nintendo eShop is still open for the 3DS and those who own them. There are still a handful of decent Sega Genesis titles available for those with a penchant for the beloved handheld system. But for those who have made the transition into the current console generation with ease, have a look at the next entry.
3 Nintendo Switch Eshop
The Nintendo Switch is arguably one of the company's most successful consoles, but it's a veritable goldmine for retrogamers who want to bring their appetites for old games into the modern era. Like the 3DS, the Switch's eShop has more than a few Sega classics, and it certainly has more than its handheld predecessor in terms of titles.
To access them, all one has to do is search for the "Sega Ages" collection of games to satisfy their craving for Genesis titles.
2 Sonic’s Ultimate Genesis Collection
For those who want the essentials of what the system had to offer, this nifty little title for the PS3 and 360 will be sure to satisfy. Essentially a compilation of the best of the best of Sega. Players have their choice of nearly every original Sega property available on the Genesis from Sonic to Comix Zone. If this entry on the PS3/Xbox 360 didn't satisfy, venture over to a more contemporary entry.
1 Sega Genesis Classics Collection
Available on Switch, Ps4, Xbox One, and all other manner of consoles, the Sega Genesis Classic Collection has a beautifully remastered collection of Genesis titles for a new audience, it even comes with a handful of arcade favorites to boot. While it lacks a few games featured on the previous compilation, this collection is probably the most accessible and most user-friendly way to take a trip back to the age of blue hedgehogs, space dragons, and mean bean machines.