admin

Let’s journey back to the early ’90s, a time when handheld gaming consoles were multiplying faster than you could say “8-bit.” Among the slew of contenders vying for a piece of the portable gaming pie was the Gamate, also known as the Super Boy.

Developed by Bit Corporation and United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), the Gamate may not have become a household name, but it certainly made its mark in the colorful history of gaming.

Release Date

The Gamate was first released in Taiwan in 1990, and it soon found its way to international markets, including North America and Europe. It was a period when the Game Boy was already enjoying massive success, but the Gamate aimed to offer something a little different and, perhaps, a bit more affordable.

Overall Popularity

In terms of popularity, the Gamate was very much the underdog. It didn’t achieve widespread acclaim or massive sales numbers like the Game Boy or the Sega Game Gear. Despite its relatively low profile, it garnered a small but dedicated fan base who appreciated its unique charm and the effort behind it. The Gamate’s market presence was modest, and today, it’s more of a collector’s curiosity than a gaming legend.

Technical Details

Now, let’s dive into the technical specs of the Gamate and see what made it tick:

• Display: The Gamate featured a 2.8-inch reflective monochrome LCD screen, offering 4 shades of gray. While it didn’t have the vibrancy of the Game Gear or the Lynx, it got the job done for the games it ran.
• Processor: It was powered by a custom 8-bit CPU, often referred to as the ‘Gamate CPU,’ running at around 6 MHz. It provided adequate performance for the system’s needs.
• Memory: The console had 16 KB of RAM, which was relatively modest but sufficient for its game library.
• Power: The Gamate required four AA batteries, which provided around 8-10 hours of gameplay. This was fairly competitive compared to other handhelds of the era, especially the power-hungry Game Gear.
• Sound: The sound capabilities were basic, featuring a simple beeper speaker system. It was functional, if not exactly symphonic.

The Companies Behind the Magic: Bit Corporation and United Microelectronics Corporation

Bit Corporation was a Taiwanese electronics company founded in 1982. They were known for producing a variety of electronic games and gaming peripherals. UMC, on the other hand, is a prominent semiconductor company also based in Taiwan, established in 1980. The collaboration between these two companies aimed to produce an affordable and competitive handheld console in an already crowded market.

Other Noteworthy Tidbits

• Game Library: The Gamate had a library of about 70-80 games. While it didn’t have the expansive catalog of its competitors, it offered a variety of titles across different genres, including puzzle games, action titles, and shoot ‘em ups. Some notable games included “Galaxy Invaders,” “Legend of Dragon Knight,” and “Pioneer Lander.”
• Design: The Gamate had a chunky, rectangular design that was typical of early ’90s handhelds. It was robust enough to withstand some rough handling, which was a plus for younger gamers.
• Interchangeable Cartridges: Like its competitors, the Gamate used interchangeable game cartridges, making it easy to switch between titles.

Fun Facts

• Name Variations: In some regions, the Gamate was marketed as the Super Boy, an attempt to capitalize on the popularity of handheld consoles with similar naming conventions.
• Distribution Challenges: The Gamate faced significant distribution challenges, especially in North America and Europe. This limited its availability and contributed to its modest sales figures.
• Collector’s Item: Today, the Gamate is a sought-after item among retro gaming collectors. Finding a working unit, along with a collection of cartridges, can be a real treasure hunt.

We Love it, All in All

The Gamate was an ambitious attempt to carve out a niche in the competitive handheld gaming market of the early ’90s. While it didn’t achieve the commercial success of its rivals, it remains an interesting footnote in gaming history. Its technical specs, unique design, and diverse game library make it a fascinating piece of retro gaming lore.

So, if you ever come across a Gamate at a flea market or in an old electronics store, consider giving it a whirl. You might just find yourself appreciating the charm and simplicity of this underdog console. In the grand tapestry of handheld gaming, the Gamate may be a small thread, but it’s one woven with ambition and creativity.

Let’s talk about the Watara Supervision, also known as the QuickShot Supervision in some markets. This handheld console might not have become a household name like the Game Boy, but it has an interesting story and its own place in the pantheon of portable gaming devices.

Release Date

The Watara Supervision was launched in 1992 by Watara, a Hong Kong-based company. It aimed to offer an affordable alternative to the Nintendo Game Boy, which was dominating the market at the time.

Overall Popularity

In terms of popularity, the Supervision was more of a niche product. It didn’t manage to capture a significant market share or achieve the legendary status of the Game Boy. However, it found a modest audience, particularly among budget-conscious consumers and in markets where the Game Boy was less accessible due to its higher price.

Technical Details

Let’s dive into the technical specifications of the Watara Supervision to understand what made it tick:

• Display: The Supervision featured a 3.0-inch reflective monochrome LCD screen with a resolution of 160×160 pixels. Like the Game Boy, it required adequate lighting to see the screen properly.
• Processor: The console was powered by an 8-bit NEC 780C CPU, running at 4 MHz. This provided sufficient performance for the types of games it supported.
• Memory: It had 8 KB of RAM, which was reasonable for the basic games it ran.
• Power: The Supervision required four AA batteries, which provided approximately 12-16 hours of gameplay, making it quite efficient compared to some of its contemporaries.
• Sound: The audio capabilities were basic, featuring a simple speaker that produced monophonic sound. It wasn’t exactly symphonic, but it added to the overall gaming experience.

The Company Behind the Magic: Watara

Watara was a relatively obscure electronics manufacturer based in Hong Kong. The company specialized in producing affordable consumer electronics, including calculators and digital watches, before venturing into the gaming market with the Supervision. Their goal was to provide a low-cost alternative to the Game Boy, leveraging their expertise in cost-effective manufacturing.

Other Noteworthy Tidbits

• Game Library: The Supervision had a library of around 60-70 games, spanning various genres such as action, puzzle, sports, and adventure. Some notable titles included “Crystball,” “Challenger Tank,” and “Hash Blocks.” While the library was not as extensive or diverse as the Game Boy’s, it offered decent variety for players.
• Design: The Supervision had a simple, functional design. The original model featured a D-pad on the left, two action buttons on the right, and a small speaker grill. One unique aspect was the ability to tilt the screen for a better viewing angle, which was an innovative feature at the time.
• Interchangeable Cartridges: Like other handhelds of the era, the Supervision used interchangeable game cartridges, making it easy for players to swap out games. The cartridges were relatively small and easy to handle.
• Distribution: In the United States and Europe, the Supervision was distributed by different companies under various names, including the QuickShot Supervision. This helped it gain some traction in Western markets, albeit limited.

Fun Facts

• Name Variations: Depending on the region and distributor, the Supervision was sold under different names. The QuickShot brand, for example, was used in the United States and Europe, attempting to leverage the popularity of QuickShot joysticks and peripherals.
• Price Point: One of the Supervision’s main selling points was its affordability. It was significantly cheaper than the Game Boy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
• Collector’s Item: Today, the Supervision is a niche collector’s item. Finding a working unit, along with its game cartridges, can be an exciting challenge for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Wrapping It Up

The Watara Supervision was an ambitious effort to offer a budget-friendly alternative to the Nintendo Game Boy. While it didn’t achieve the same commercial success, it provided a unique and affordable gaming experience for those who couldn’t afford the more expensive options. Its technical specs, game library, and innovative design features make it a fascinating piece of retro gaming history. So, if you ever stumble upon a Supervision at a flea market or in a vintage electronics store, consider giving it a go. You might just appreciate the quirky charm and simplicity of this underdog console. In the grand saga of handheld gaming, the Watara Supervision stands as a testament to the era’s spirit of innovation and competition.

The TurboExpress: The TurboGrafx-16 in Your Pocket

Buckle up, retro gaming fans, and let’s take a trip back to the early ’90s, when handheld gaming was getting more sophisticated, colorful, and competitive. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on the TurboExpress, a handheld console that brought the power of the TurboGrafx-16 right into your hands. Created by NEC Home Electronics, this device was a technological marvel of its time, even if it didn’t quite achieve the commercial success it deserved.

Release Date

The TurboExpress was released in late 1990 in Japan and North America, aiming to compete with the likes of the Nintendo Game Boy and the Sega Game Gear. While the exact release date varies depending on the region, it firmly planted its flag in the burgeoning handheld market of the early ’90s.

Overall Popularity

In terms of popularity, the TurboExpress didn’t reach the lofty heights of its competitors. It sold approximately 1.5 million units worldwide, a modest figure compared to the Game Boy’s astronomical sales. However, among hardcore gamers and tech enthusiasts, it earned a reputation as a premium device thanks to its impressive specs and ability to play TurboGrafx-16 games on the go.

Technical Details

Let’s geek out for a moment and delve into the impressive technical specs of the TurboExpress:

• Display: The TurboExpress featured a 2.6-inch backlit active-matrix color LCD screen. This was quite advanced for its time, offering bright and vibrant visuals that made games look fantastic.
• Processor: It was powered by the same Hudson Soft HuC6280 8-bit CPU running at 7.16 MHz that was used in the TurboGrafx-16, ensuring that the handheld could run the same games as its home console counterpart.
• Memory: The TurboExpress had 8 KB of RAM and 64 KB of video RAM, mirroring the TurboGrafx-16’s capabilities.
• Power: The device required six AA batteries, which provided about 3-4 hours of gameplay. Like many handhelds of the era, it was a bit of a power-hungry beast.
• Sound: It boasted stereo sound through headphones, offering an immersive audio experience that was quite impressive for a handheld device.

The Company Behind the Magic: NEC Home Electronics

NEC, or Nippon Electric Company, is a Japanese multinational known for its contributions to the electronics and technology industries. Founded in 1899, NEC had a rich history by the time it ventured into the gaming market. In the late ’80s, NEC partnered with Hudson Soft to create the TurboGrafx-16 (known as the PC Engine in Japan). Building on the success and technology of this home console, NEC developed the TurboExpress to capture the handheld gaming market.

Other Noteworthy Tidbits

• Game Library: The TurboExpress could play all TurboGrafx-16 games, using the same HuCard format. This gave it access to a substantial library of over 300 games, including hits like “Bonk’s Adventure” and “Ninja Spirit.”
• TV Tuner: One of the standout accessories for the TurboExpress was the TurboVision TV tuner. This add-on allowed users to watch TV on their TurboExpress, turning it into a portable television.
• Design: The TurboExpress had a sleek, black design that was quite stylish for its time. It was larger than the Game Boy but smaller than the Game Gear, striking a good balance between portability and screen size.

Fun Facts

• Pixel Perfect: The TurboExpress was one of the first handhelds to feature a screen resolution of 400×270 pixels, which was higher than many of its competitors.
• Pricey Proposition: At launch, the TurboExpress was priced at around $249.99, making it one of the most expensive handhelds on the market. This high price point limited its accessibility to a broader audience.
• Connectivity: The TurboLink cable allowed two TurboExpress units to connect for multiplayer gaming, adding a social element to the handheld experience.

So, What Do You Think?

The TurboExpress was a remarkable piece of technology that pushed the boundaries of what handheld gaming could be. Despite its high price and relatively short battery life, it offered a unique and powerful gaming experience, allowing players to take their TurboGrafx-16 games on the go. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of its rivals, the TurboExpress remains a beloved and respected device among retro gaming enthusiasts. So, if you ever get your hands on this portable powerhouse, pop in a HuCard, and experience the thrill of ’90s gaming in the palm of your hand. In the ever-evolving world of gaming, the TurboExpress stands as a testament to NEC’s innovative spirit and ambition.

Welcome to the quirky corner of retro gaming, where we explore the lesser-known consoles that tried to make a splash in the world dominated by the Game Boy and Game Gear. Today, we’re diving into the fascinating tale of the Mega Duck, also known as the Cougar Boy in some markets. Produced by Welback Holdings, this handheld console is a testament to the creativity and ambition of smaller electronics companies in the early ’90s.

Release Date

The Mega Duck was released in 1993, right in the thick of the handheld gaming boom. It debuted in Europe and South America, where it hoped to carve out a niche among gamers looking for alternatives to the more popular systems of the time.

Overall Popularity

In terms of popularity, the Mega Duck (or Cougar Boy) was more of a “cult classic” than a mainstream hit. It didn’t achieve the widespread recognition or sales figures of the Game Boy or Game Gear, but it found its audience, especially in markets where these more established handhelds were harder to come by or more expensive. Today, it enjoys a certain charm among collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.

Technical Details

Let’s take a closer look at what made the Mega Duck quack:

• Display: The Mega Duck featured a 2.7-inch reflective monochrome LCD screen with a resolution of 160×144 pixels, which was quite similar to the Game Boy’s display. Like many handhelds of its time, good lighting was essential to see the screen clearly.
• Processor: It was powered by a Sharp LR35902 CPU, an 8-bit processor clocked at 4.19 MHz. This was essentially the same processor used in the original Game Boy, which meant it had comparable performance.
• Memory: The console had 8 KB of RAM, which was adequate for the type of games it ran.
• Power: The Mega Duck required three AA batteries, providing around 8-10 hours of gameplay. This made it relatively efficient compared to some of its more power-hungry contemporaries.
• Sound: The sound system included a simple speaker that offered monophonic audio. It wasn’t groundbreaking, but it provided the necessary bleeps and bloops for gaming.

The Company Behind the Magic: Welback Holdings

Welback Holdings was a relatively obscure Hong Kong-based company. In collaboration with several European and South American distributors, they produced the Mega Duck/Cougar Boy. Their goal was to offer a low-cost alternative to the more popular handheld consoles of the time, leveraging their manufacturing capabilities to produce an affordable gaming device.

Other Noteworthy Tidbits

• Game Library: The Mega Duck had a modest library of around 30-40 games. While not extensive, it covered various genres, including action, puzzle, and sports games. Notable titles included “Snake Roy,” “Bomb Disposer,” and “Magic Tower.”
• Design: The console had a straightforward, utilitarian design. It featured a D-pad on the left, two action buttons on the right, and a small speaker grill. The cartridges were top-loading, similar to the Game Boy.
• Interchangeable Cartridges: Like its competitors, the Mega Duck used interchangeable game cartridges, making it easy for players to switch between titles. The cartridges were smaller and less robust compared to those of the Game Boy.

Fun Facts

• Name Variations: Depending on the region and distributor, the console was marketed under different names. In South America, for example, it was known as the Cougar Boy, which added a bit of regional flavor to its identity.
• Affordability: One of the Mega Duck’s main selling points was its price. It was significantly cheaper than the Game Boy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.
• Collector’s Item: Today, the Mega Duck is a niche collector’s item. Finding a working unit along with its game cartridges can be a delightful challenge for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Wrapping It Up

The Mega Duck (Cougar Boy) was a valiant attempt by Welback Holdings to make a mark in the competitive world of handheld gaming. While it didn’t achieve the commercial success of its more famous rivals, it provided a unique and affordable gaming experience. Its technical specs, game library, and simple design make it a fascinating piece of retro gaming history. So, if you ever stumble upon a Mega Duck at a flea market or in a vintage electronics shop, consider giving it a closer look. You might just appreciate the quirky charm and simplicity of this underdog console. In the grand tapestry of handheld gaming, the Mega Duck stands as a testament to the era’s spirit of innovation and the determination of smaller companies to make their mark.

The Sega Game Gear: The Colorful Challenger in Handheld Gaming

Strap in, fellow gamers, and let’s take a nostalgic trip to the early ’90s, a time when portable gaming was exploding and every company wanted a piece of the action. Today, we’re diving into the story of the Sega Game Gear, Sega’s bold entry into the handheld console wars. It may not have toppled the Game Boy, but it certainly made a colorful splash.

Release Date

The Sega Game Gear first hit the Japanese market on October 6, 1990, before making its way to North America and Europe in April 1991. It was Sega’s ambitious attempt to bring the handheld crown home, taking on the reigning champion, Nintendo’s Game Boy.

Overall Popularity

In terms of popularity, the Game Gear had a respectable run, selling around 10.6 million units worldwide. While it never reached the towering heights of the Game Boy, it carved out a significant niche for itself. Think of it as the cool, slightly rebellious cousin to Nintendo’s more straight-laced handheld.

Technical Details

Now, let’s get into the nuts and bolts of the Game Gear, because this handheld had some impressive specs for its time:

• Display: The Game Gear featured a 3.2-inch full-color backlit LCD screen. Compared to the Game Boy’s monochrome display, the Game Gear’s vibrant colors were a feast for the eyes. Of course, this came with a trade-off, as the screen was a notorious battery drainer.
• Processor: It was powered by an 8-bit Zilog Z80 CPU running at 3.58 MHz, the same type used in Sega’s Master System, ensuring solid performance for its games.
• Memory: The console had 8 KB of RAM and 16 KB of video RAM, which allowed it to handle its colorful graphics and complex games relatively well.
• Power: Here’s where things got a bit dicey. The Game Gear required six AA batteries, which would last for about 3-5 hours of gameplay. Yes, it was a portable powerhouse, but it had a voracious appetite for batteries.
• Sound: It boasted a 4-channel stereo sound system, which provided a rich audio experience, especially when using headphones.

The Company Behind the Magic: Sega

Sega, the brains behind the Game Gear, was already a powerhouse in the gaming industry with hits like Sonic the Hedgehog and the Sega Genesis (or Mega Drive, if you’re outside North America). Founded in 1940, Sega had a long history of innovation and creativity in entertainment. The Game Gear was their attempt to extend their dominance into the handheld market, riding on the coattails of their home console success.

Other Noteworthy Tidbits

• Game Library: The Game Gear boasted a library of over 300 games. Highlights included titles like “Sonic the Hedgehog,” “Columns,” and “Shining Force Gaiden.” It also had a neat trick up its sleeve: compatibility with Sega Master System games via the Master Gear Converter.
• Design: The Game Gear had a sleek, ergonomic design that made it comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions. It was a bit larger and heftier than the Game Boy, but that added to its sturdy feel.
• Accessories: Sega didn’t hold back on accessories. The Game Gear had a range of add-ons, including the TV Tuner, which allowed you to watch TV on your Game Gear (yes, you read that right), and the Gear to Gear Cable for multiplayer gaming.

Fun Facts

• Sonic the Hedgehog: The Game Gear was home to several exclusive Sonic the Hedgehog titles, making it a must-have for fans of Sega’s blue mascot.
• Marketing Battles: Sega’s marketing campaigns often took direct shots at Nintendo, promoting the Game Gear’s color screen as a major advantage over the Game Boy’s monochrome display. It was all part of the larger “console wars” narrative.
• Collector’s Item: Today, the Game Gear is a beloved collector’s item. Finding one in good working condition, along with some of its quirky accessories, can be a real treasure hunt for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Wrapping It Up

The Sega Game Gear was a bold and innovative entry into the handheld gaming market. It may not have dethroned the Game Boy, but it offered a unique and colorful alternative that captured the hearts of many gamers. Its impressive specs, diverse game library, and ambitious features make it a standout in gaming history. So, if you ever find yourself with a Game Gear in hand, pop in a cartridge, grab some AA batteries (lots of them), and enjoy a slice of gaming history. In the grand saga of handheld consoles, the Game Gear remains a vibrant and cherished chapter.