Retro Rumble: Hyperkin Mega 95 vs. Sega Nomad

Robb the Retro Robot

The Hyperkin Mega 95

The Hyperkin Mega 95 is a modern alternative to the Sega Nomad. Here’s what we know about it so far:

  • Plays original cartridges: This is a major draw for fans who want to play their classic games on the go without emulation.
  • 5-inch screen with switchable aspect ratios: You can choose between 4:3 and 16:9 depending on your preference.
  • 10-hour battery life: That’s plenty of time for some extended Sonic sessions.
  • USB-C dock with TV output and controller ports: You can dock the Mega 95 to play on your TV and use wired controllers for a more traditional experience.
  • No official release date or price yet: Hyperkin typically announces these details about six months before launch, so we can expect to hear more sometime in mid-2024.

Which should you buy in 2024?

Let’s take the approach of comparing and contrasting the pros and cons of purchasing a Mega 95 vs. a Sega Nomad in 2024.

The Battle

Get ready to dust off your Sonic cartridges, retro fans! Hyperkin’s Mega 95 has emerged from the pixelated shadows, promising a portable Genesis experience that might just dethrone the king: the Sega Nomad. But before you crown a new champion, let’s throw down in a rumble for the ages, pixelated punches and all!

Round 1: Cart Combat

Both the Mega 95 and Nomad play your beloved Genesis cartridges natively. This means authentic button-mashing bliss with Streets of Rage 2 and spin-dash mastery in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Nostalgia factor: cranked to 11 for both contenders. One expects the Nomad to have the advantage when it comes to cartridge compatibility, but Hyperkin’s

Round 2: Display Decisions

The Nomad’s stock screen, well, let’s just say it defines “retro.” The Mega 95 counters with a modern 5-inch LCD that boasts switchable 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios. Advantage Mega 95 for eye comfort and flexibility.

Original vs TFT Upgrade Image courtesy of 8bitplus: https://8bitplus.co.uk/projects/sega-nomad-lcd-upgrade/
Mega 95 Docked Image courtesy of Hyperkin

Round 3: Battery Brawl

The Nomad runs on 6 AA batteries, offering around 3 hours of juice. The Mega 95 packs a rechargeable battery promising a whopping 10 hours. Roundhouse kick to the Mega 95! More Sonic Spinballs, anyone?

Round 4: Hometown Hustle

The Nomad rocks a TV output but forget about controller ports. The Mega 95 doubles as a dock, letting you connect to your TV and unleash wired Genesis controllers for couch co-op glory. Mega 95 pulls ahead for versatility.

Round 5: Price Point Pummel

Here’s the knockout punch: the Nomad, in good condition, can set you back a cool $200 to $500. Yikes! The Mega 95’s price is still under wraps, but Hyperkin’s similar Super NES handheld, the SupaBoy, retails for around $120. We’re guessing the Mega 95 will fall somewhere in that ballpark, making it a much more budget-friendly brawl participant.

Bonus Round: TFT Triumph?

Some hardcore Nomad enthusiasts have modded their units with TFT screen upgrades for sharper visuals. This can cost an additional $150 to $200, pushing the Nomad’s total price even higher. While not a top-tier display, the Mega 95’s built-in LCD eliminates the need for costly tinkering.

Sega Nomad with TFT Upgrade Image courtesy of Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/retrogaming/comments/vvtj0n/finally_sega_nomad_new_lcd_screen_glass_screen/

Winner, Winner, Retro Dinner?

The Hyperkin Mega 95 emerges as a strong contender, offering longer battery life, a versatile dock, and potentially a much friendlier price tag compared to the vintage Nomad. The Nomad, however, remains a charming piece of gaming history, and its stock screen might hold a certain nostalgic appeal for some. Ultimately, the champion depends on your priorities and pixelated passion.

So, will you be throwing down with the Mega 95 or sticking with the classic Nomad? Let the retro rumble commence!