The TurboGrafx-16 Mini is the latest in a long line of micro consoles. While its name doesn't carry the same weight as the NES, SNES, or Sega Genesis, all of which have had their own mini versions, the TurboGrafx-16 still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. As one of the easiest ways to enjoy retro games with accurate designs and controllers, mini consoles have become quite popular, especially the NES and SNES Classic. So, how does the TurboGrafx-16 Mini stack up?
Originally released at the end of the 80s, with the exact year depending on which territory owners were in, the TurboGrafx was largely eclipsed by the Sega Genesis. Now, however, retro consoles have a more even playing field, and with 2020 video game delays being pretty common, gamers may have a fair bit of time to journey back into the classics.
Of course, as demonstrated by the PlayStation Classic, not all mini consoles are created equal, as it was a major disappointment when it first released. With the TurboGrafx-16 Mini being a less-anticipated console, it seems less likely that purchasers will walk away disappointed by it. However, it appears some may still have some grievances with the mini console, while others see it as something of a hidden gem.
"Sadly, the realities of emulation on a budget-priced SoC rear their ugly head once more, as the TG-16M suffers from the same combination of input lag and sound lag that I found on M2's Genesis Mini." Sam Machkovech, Ars Technica
"Really, what you get out of the TurboGrafx-16 Mini depends on what you’re looking for. If you were one of the few who actually owned the original device, there’s likely some nostalgia value here, as there has been with past mini-consoles. But for everyone else — the people whose experience with the TurboGrafx-16 was limited to fleeting encounters in an arcade or old issues of EGM — that hook isn’t necessarily there, so you’ll need to approach the games with an open mind." Andrew Webster, The Verge
"The TurboGrafx-16 Mini is a great collection of games, and a glimpse at a console that never really had a chance." Jeff Cork, Game Informer
"Grievances against the hardware pack-ins aside, if you're a collector, the TurboGrafx-16 Mini absolutely worth adding to your collection." Chris Carter, Destructoid
"Being able to experience these classic titles in one convenient place--and witness M2's charming, nostalgic presentation--makes the TurboGrafx-16 Mini an exciting device that does a great job of capturing the past of a console that should not be forgotten." Mat Paget, GameSpot
So, for those that have an eye for hardware and an appreciation for the classics, the TurboGrafx-16 Mini doesn't seem to be a bad way to go. There may be some issues with input lag due to the emulation software, and many reviews have been quick to mention that the TurboGrafx-16 doesn't have its own Mario or Sonic, so those looking for something iconic to play may want to look elsewhere.
Still, the console should provide collectors with yet another cool setpiece to display. With Atari releasing a new console in the coming months, the sheer number of retro manufacturers getting back into the games industry is mind-boggling, and it may be slightly difficult to justify $100 for the TurboGrafx-16 Mini, but the option is now there for those looking for it. Who knows, maybe more mini consoles will be hitting shelves soon, too.
The TurboGrafx-16 Mini is available now.