Over the past couple of days I got it stuck in my head that I should buy a Turbografx for my next system. I went out to a retro shop and picked one up. I just wanted to share my thoughts on a system that , up until a few years ago, I've never heard of.
---
Console Design:
The TG-16 has to be one of the slickest looking consoles out there. It looks simple but it looks powerful as well. Even though it is about the same length and width of a model 1 Genesis/MD, it doesn't look bulky. I like that because I'm already out of room as it is and it kinda makes me feel a little less guilty for buying it.
One other thing I like is that where the power supply connects to the system it kinda hides in the covering on the back. And speaking of the power supply, I'm glad it's like the Gamecube or Wii where it has a box but it ends in a regular plug. Not having that brick design like the Snes or Gen/MD makes it easier to keep plugged up into a power strip.The console does have shortcomings that I noticed immediately.
One: There is only one controller port. If I get a multiplayer game I'll have to order a multitap to allow more players. That isn't a huge problem right now so I'll overlook that.
Two: I'm not exactly happy about RF only. An RCA connection would have been a nice option. But even though it's a rf connection; the quality is fantastic. I can't see any lines or fuzziness like the rf connections for my other systems.
Controller:
Even though it is a blatant rip-off of the NES controller, it is amazing. The edges are rounded and it is very comfortable to hold. The d-pad looks uncomfortable but it works like a charm. I thought that it looked a little small but while playing a game it worked perfectly. The buttons are responsive and easy to use and I like instead of "Start" you have "Run".
Also, the turbo switches are always a plus. No need to go out and purchase another controller for shooters.Games:
The HuCard is an interesting design. The games are easy to insert and easy to remove. I'm new to hucards but I really like them. They don't jut out of the system like other consoles; which I think is what all older systems should have done. It makes the system look more clean and I like how when you turn the system on a little tab locks the game in place. Very neat and efficient.
There are several downsides to the games:
One: Unlike the more successful systems, you don't have stacks and stacks of quality titles to play. However, I feel that this system makes up for it with its exclusives.
Two: You won't walk into a game store with 10 bucks and walk out with about 20 games. These games are hard to find in my area and the ones you do find are poor quality titles, or if they're good they are missing the case, booklet, et cetera, or are very expensive. I've got to shop online for about 99% of the other games I intend to purchase for the TG.
All this being said, I only own one game: Blazing Lazers. I needed a game and the only quality title the store had was BL and it cost me $10. It only came with the plastic sleeve and I knew that I could probably get the game complete for $10 online. However, I'm kinda over the overpaying because Blazing Lazers is freaking awesome.
I've only recently gotten into the whole shmup genre and this one is amazing. I'm not really into the whole bullet-hell type games yet so I enjoy these a lot more.Overall:
I'm pleased with the system so far and I look forward to playing some great games on it. I'd like to give a big thanks to those who contributed and/or wrote the TG 101, hidden gems, and defining games pages. Those have been and will continue to be vital in my newest game experiences.
