Exhibit: Sega Master System (1985–2000)
Released: October 20, 1985 (Japan) · 1987 (UK)
Manufacturer: Sega
Units Sold: ~13 million worldwide (significantly more in Brazil)
Status: Europe's beloved 8-bit alternative
The Console That Beat Nintendo in Europe
In North America, the Master System was crushed by Nintendo's stranglehold on retailers and third-party developers. In Europe, it was a different story entirely. Distributed by Mastertronic and later Sega Europe, the Master System outsold the NES in several European territories and became the first console for millions of British children.
In Brazil, the story is even more remarkable. The Master System — manufactured locally by Tectoy — remained in production until 2016, making it one of the longest-running consoles in history.
Iconic Games
- Alex Kidd in Miracle World — built into the console itself, Sega's answer to Mario
- Sonic the Hedgehog — the 8-bit version, a remarkable technical achievement
- Wonder Boy III: The Dragon's Trap — a Metroidvania masterpiece
- Phantasy Star — the RPG that rivalled Final Fantasy on far less hardware
- R-Type — the definitive home version of the arcade classic
Collector's Corner
The Master System is a beloved collector's piece in the UK, where it holds genuine nostalgic significance. Complete boxed examples with the light phaser and 3D glasses are particularly sought after.