Mega Retron HD Review: The Best Budget Genesis Clone?

[@MegaDude531]

I really enjoy your videos. Straight to the point and knowledgeable. Thanks for sharing with us!

[@johnhancockretro]

You are most welcome.

[@RetroGameStream]

I was about to post this exact same comment.

[@wyldelf2685]

@@johnhancockretro hey John the review was great ,,but that shirt was awesome 😎👍

[@wyldelf2685]

@@johnhancockretro also John the FPGA tech has been available for over the last 10years relatively cheap too , it's just the company Analog sells expensive custom consoles ,so don't let their PRADA attitude blind you to the concept of lower price FPHA ,,just because of that it maybe worth opening that console up ,,thanks man 👍

[@SaturnHST]

It's the best HD Genesis clone so far. Finally there is stereo sound (Fei Hao, Minigen HD and Super Retro Trio are only dual mono), 4:3 aspect ratio, region switch for all 3 regions (not just US/JP). Surprised that Virtua Racing works since none of the other clones in the past are compatible. The controller is one of the most comfortable Genesis controllers I've used.

[@Bro-cx2jc]

Some of the Fei Hao clones have stereo. I've got one of those.

[@faceduro6719]

I just bought one right now can't wait to try it out, got me some Ms. Pac-Man and Last Battle to play

[@fartist123]

I prefer the intro in this video over the newer one you occasionally use. It seems to suite you better.

[@darthbukowski6894]

Hyperkin for the most part has always done a good job with these consoles. They honestly have the best ones on the market in my opinion.

[@darthbukowski6894]

Harry Warburg yeah, I completely agree. Those two systems have been an issue but on whole they do make a good product.

[@robindp]

They have been getting better with time! This sounds like a solid product that most of us can afford.

[@robindp]

@James Earl Cash Yes, I like this too - can use the controllers you already own!

[@JMFSpike]

@James Earl Cash I'd go ahead and take the risk. The thing works with Virtua Racing, seemingly all homebrews, the Everdrive, and the Power Base Converter. The chance that it doesn't work with the GameGenie is extremely slim, like probably less then 1%.

[@SumDumGy]

The Retron 5 and Retron 77 were both let downs for me.

[@PixelGameSquad]

Dude I got one of these on launch day and have been digging it. Truth be told...my favorite Genesis clone console (for what I'm into) 🤙

[@mariaguerra2181]

Does your game look smoother in hd or is it just a signal for hdtvs

[@mrlurchAU]

*So* good that us Sega fans finally get a good console to play our games through HDMI. Thanks John, great video.

[@gamehorizon7883]

This has got to be the first Genesis clone system that you didn't test/play Ghouls 'n Ghosts on, haha! Good review, man.

[@shadic1988]

I would love to see Sega and Hyperkin work together.

[@Galdelico]

Hey John, that glitchy line on top of Super SFII is there on real hardware too. Even though this is not a device for enthusiasts, it's still worth noting how 256px wide games (SSFII, Fatal Fury, Virtua Racing…) seem to produce some heavy horizontal shimmering, due to the fact the Mega Retron HD stretches them to 4:3, while their 1:1 aspect ratio should be 8:7.

[@jeff97ish]

I own this and also the Minigen HD. Both are excellent consoles. I did notice a sound difference with bass, but nothing bad. I didn't like the controller at first, but I really like it now. Great review as always!

[@bluestreakedladyshe-her8507]

Which sounds closer to a Model 1?

[@jeff97ish]

@@bluestreakedladyshe-her8507 I would say the sound is better on the Gamerz Tek Minigen HD. That's just my opinion. But, you get more region options with the Hyperkin. Depends on which area you want it most. The Gamerz Tek comes with two pretty good controllers.

[@leefischer5814]

Really appreciate your work and fair but honest assessment on all of these cool clone consoles and such. I probably would not only know that these exist but respect your unbiased opinion on this channel. Keep on keeping on and thanks!

[@EmperorMegas]

Awesome shirt, bro. I've always dug your 'Altered Beast' cap as well.

[@whoc4r3s117]

I am a sucker for Genesis. Can't believe an actual clone console that doesn't suck. Can't wait till they start doing CD based consoles.

[@joesoprano74]

Another great video by The Immortal John Hancock! Thank you, John! BTW, love the Sonic shirt!

[@robocop2283]

Hey John, just wanted to let you know I really enjoy these videos. Appreciate your work, keep it up! Thanks!

[@Rkylim83]

Always enjoy your video john and 👍for hyperkin! This is by far the best genesis clone console i have seen.

[@bcherbs]

Your collection is simply mind blowing, man you must be proud.

[@jamesmincks582]

Just the fact that virtua racing works is worth the $50.

[@Monacomaverick]

This clone actually has the power pin that enables the SVP chip in the cartridge. Hopefully someone will hack it for 32X usage as well.

[@myvisuallyimpairedlife5674]

Great review John. This console looks absolutely amazing. I bought the gamerz Tek mini gen HD based on your review on that and I absolutely love that one too for $40 shipped to my door it's been absolutely amazing little console. It plays ever drive and Sega Master System games flawlessly as well. Special chipped cartridges I could not tell you as I do not own any. But, for the price that I paid and it's flawless functionality I am not about to give up on that little console yet. I will however, bye this console as well in the future. So, mr. John Hancock I have to say I am very happy that I have subscribed to your Channel. I have enjoyed every video you have made and I respect the fact that even when you review junk you give them credit when it's due and where it's due. You do not harp on companies with negativity that shows a lot about your character. Keep the great videos coming John I will be listening.

[@OOOHBILLY]

Since I already pre-ordered the Analog mega sg, I might just wait for that. I'm beginning to have too many consoles..... But this thing looks really sweet! Cool video John!

[@robindp]

OOOHBILLY As far as problems go, that's a good one to have! :)

[@SomeOrangeCat]

This certainly looks like a fantastic option for people on a budget though. With Christmas right around the corner, I can see them moving a bunch of these.

[@KISSFan1977]

Looks nice! Great video as always. I broke down and got the 2018 ATGames Sega Genesis HD hoping it would be better than the 2017 version. I have to say I was impressed it appears ATGames finally got one right. You can identify it by the fact it has a fake volume slider and looks more faithful to the original 1989 Sega Genesis. Hope to see you do a review on one!

[@nosebeareatsfudge3275]

Thank you, at last a reviewer confirms virtua racing working on this!

[@BryanTrustyChannel]

Solid review for a solid clone console. Great job John!

[@sangbeta2043]

Awesome that Virtua Racing works. Setting a minimum standard for the Mega SG to meet.

[@grypeseye]

Thanks for the video! I was looking for a decent Genesis clone for home brew games. I definitely want to pick one up after watching this.

[@jedirun]

I've already pre-ordered Analogue's system so I'm good

[@Owazrim]

I removed the casing for the original power base converter and tested out some Master System games. Using HDMI it inverts the colors unless you run it in PAL. Which means it also runs slower. Composite NTSC-U things ran fine. The 3D glasses and light phaser games worked fine as well with a CRT.

[@TheAtariCreep]

Its a great console and a great deal all around for what it is. What gets me is why THIS console is $20 cheaper than the RetroN 77 and hasn't all the issues that console has??? Crazy to me anyway. Great review bud.

[@user-rd5wj2mm8n]

The most important aspect when reviewing any clone console is lag. Gimme the lag lowdown.

[@SumDumGy]

Yeah. Really surprised he didn’t mention that. Hyperkin is known for lag but other reviews I’ve encountered say this is virtually lag free

[@user-rd5wj2mm8n]

@@SumDumGy I've heard similar, but, considering how 'cheap' it is and it is still emulation, I'd be very, very surprised if lag wasn't in fact quite bad on games in which it's most notable.

[@SumDumGy]

That’s what I wonder. When I’ve raised doubts on KZbin, I’ve been shot down. My local game store owner tried one last year at E3 and he told me he didn’t experience lag, either. After my Retron 5, I’d hate to buy about her of their consoles and end up with more lag.

[@user-rd5wj2mm8n]

@@SumDumGy i don't likewise, only with the Retro Freak. Kept hearing 'no lag', 'minimal lag', etc, well, I blame myself really. I actually bought into the comments and purchased one admittedly on the cheap. While for some maybe the lag was negligible, unfortunately I felt it immediately. Now I have my eye on the D10 Nano FPGA. Looks the real deal.

[@SumDumGy]

It’s a shame we can’t trust what we hear within the community.

[@alynicholls3230]

i might get this, i have been really impressed by the retron77, my four switch vader was getting a lot of use in our house so i bought a retron77, cleaned and serviced the vader and put it on display, so far its been great.

[@Sirynx77]

I don't understand why Hyperkin didn't package two of their Genesis "Squire" controllers with the MegaRetronHD. They packaged the SupaRetronHD SNESconsole with two SNES "Scout" controllers. They could have easily put another controller and just add $10 bucks to the price. I'm sure the Mega RetronHD would still be a good purchase with a great price.

[@bahbahblacksheep311]

Well you talked me into it. Bought one through your referral link. Can’t wait to get it! Now if only I could get my hands on a Polymega so it’s easier to play my Sega cd/Saturn collection!

[@ryanyoder7573]

ryan streeter I think that system has been exposed as a scam. Can’t remember which KZbinr though.

[@bahbahblacksheep311]

Ryan Yoder I hope they’re wrong but I found that video after posting this comment. I really want a better way to enjoy my Sega CD and Saturn library... BTW I got my Mega Retron HD and it’s awesome!

[@ryanyoder7573]

Cool. I want to know how it scrolls. Do you see shimmering? That’s common with upscalers. Also how much inout lag? Does the everdrive work?

[@artisticthief23]

Love your opinions, insight, and videos, John! Where did you get that shirt?? I love it

[@SeveredLegs]

Genesis version of SSF2 is better than SNES. No slowdown that is common in SNES. Better sound effects as well. Better controller of course as well.

[@48hourrecordsteam45]

KevvyLava tell that to the fools.even as a kid..I played both on crack addict and I could tell the genesis version was more direct..it allowed me to be pinpoint with my beating up of people....lol....and the sound effects on the snes turned me way off...when a hit sfx echoed 3/4 times ...it was the most annoying thing .....I could tell there was better coloring on snes..but not enough to make it better..at all

[@SeveredLegs]

@@48hourrecordsteam45 spot on. Way better experience. Genesis sounded more like an arcade game and played better, no lag, etc. Better experience, no question.

[@EASYUSA]

Does it work with Master System cartridges?

[@mulletmcnugget]

He says in the video that Master System games work when you use an adaptor. At last i'll be able to play my ones using my own master/mega adaptor. :)

[@butmisstron8153]

I just got this today and it was worth the 50$ and it's my first clone system

[@The1uptriforce]

Virtua Racing works!?!? WHHHAAAAAAAAAAT!!!!!?!?!?! THIS IS IS WORTH BUYING!!!!!!!

[@JMFSpike]

Even more impressive is that it seems to run all homebrews, it has stereo sound(first time ever for a clone I think), and the sound is actually seemingly identical to a real Genesis.

[@RanyBx]

Hey John! Great video. I just wanted to point out that Ninja Gaiden's in-game music is running slower than usual in here, I'm not sure what seems to be the problem exactly (the PAL 50hz switch maybe?) Keep up the excellent work!

[@bENOFFICIALMASSIVE]

Nice John!

[@kcat80]

how is the compatibility with codemasters j-carts? will you be able to use all the multi tap ports on the cart? would also be interested to know how this compares to other upscaler solutions like retrocables with an original megadrive/genesis.

[@dr.joshdarealgamer1610]

I may want to get me one of those.

[@SumDumGy]

It’s a shame Hyperkin didn’t put the same level of care into the Retron 77, and also a shame I never saw this at any retailer, for full price or on sale. My local Walmart sure hasn’t carried it.

[@jam237]

Awesome stuff thanks so much for sharing

[@benseac]

Is there a trick to get the Power Base Mini to get it to work properly? The sound works but the picture is awful. It looks like most of the colors aren't showing up.

[@helenomesmo9177]

Great channel

[@JetFire0422]

You should try Ex-Mutants it also gives clone consoles a problem

[@johnhancockretro]

Good to know, thank you!

[@inputfunny]

I tried to play Ex-Mutants on the Sega Genesis 3; it looked like everything was working fine until the level started and wouldn't load in the main character. I wonder if Gargoyles would have problems on this.

[@OfficialReign]

Wait a minute, does this console come pre loaded with games or are you using a multi game cart? And how well does this console run with an elgato hd60s ?

[@BigBadJohnDiesel]

Hi John! Another fantastic review! I just ordered one of these as well as a Supa Retron HD. My question is, will Hyperkins Master system/game gear adapter work on the Mega Retron HD? Thank you for all you do and Happy Holidays!

[@phantomwheeler81]

great video awesome review

[@SomeOrangeCat]

It. Plays. Virtua. Racing. ...Hot DAMN! If I was in the market for a new Genesis, This would be the one I'd get.

[@fordxbgtfalcon]

The fact this plays multi carts and Virtua Racing was good enough for me to buy it. But I still like my Mega sg better of course.

[@pepelemacho]

Good video John! I Nice info!

[@rogerchristensen2741]

I love your t-shirt.

[@TwistedIdentity]

Wanted to mention, I bought one of these. There is ONE issue I have with this system. Yes the sound is in stereo and it is pretty accurate for the most part. But compared to an actual Genesis, it's very muffled. Sounds like the treble is rolled way off. Not a deal breaker but kind of a bummer. I feel like they could have fixed that with some sort of high pass filter.

[@2011Tatin]

very cool that it can play VR Racing

[@ZeroHourProductions407]

If i wasn't trying to do a neptune mod and get a sega cd for a "tower of power" build, this looks and sounds like something worth getting 💙

[@mrbagitos]

Excellent. Glad it runs Virtua Racing.

[@jook13]

I'd love to see a system like this that you can plug 32x games directly into and play em

[@tipsaybonez]

I would of liked to see widescreen version on display. Even though I would not use it maybe

[@segathon]

Nice Vid, does the 4 Way Team Player Multi tap or EA 4way work on these?

[@romanenkorobert]

Cool I was going to ask your opinion about this clone . Thanks for this information, I got a at game sega genesis .......it's OK but would like some better hd screen.

[@wfrandles]

Does the Mega Retron HD play the same carts as the Rettron 5?

[@pablooliva3090]

Buena onda de colección....hancock

[@cpthuggyface2011]

I'm sold on this.

[@veganfoodsYOUTUBE]

So audio is what on a scale from 1-10 compared to the Genesis which had a Yamaha chip if I am correct?

[@johnhancockretro]

I would say an 8-9. Pretty good.

[@ststriker]

Does this come with games preloaded on the system

[@TyBurtonReviews]

Hey john! Where can I buy a cart of Fix It Felix?

[@Sega_is_all_i_cd]

I want this console

[@baseballlive77]

Is this sytem safe for using valuable games on it?

[@Chubzdoomer]

Hyperkin makes good stuff. shAT Games could learn a lot from them.

[@coreybenoit9268]

Hey John. Love your videos. I myself am a genesis lover. Wondering if you had much input on a game called Ristar. Thanks

[@itchyisvegeta]

Since this console works with Virtua Racing, I wonder if it can be modified to work with a 32X. Not that it is practical, just curious.

[@johnhancockretro]

I have asked and am awaiting an answer.

[@baseballlive77]

@john Hancock @ Is this system safe for using valuable games on it? I dont want to damage valuable games?

[@johnhancockretro]

Anytime you insert games into a console, there will be slight wear. If you are concerned about this harming your investment, then don’t do it.

[@Skaera75b]

[@usher67]

What did you use to play master system games?

[@polmao]

Hows the input lag? Thinking of getting this to play Sonic 3 and Knuckles. Origins is terrible

[@bitbybit-eu]

I am curious about the lag. This was pretty significant on the Retron 5. is it better then the Retron 5?

[@NIDZGORSKI]

Retron hd retro line is awesome. I have nes, snes and just got my sega one. Debating on getting retron 77. I have a ton of atari games but still original system and controllers. So system is a little worn since being used from 1980 lol be nice to play with working controllers.

[@CAPCOM784]

Very surprised this played that good?If I didn't already have the original hardware I would get one of these.Think I'll grab one anyway just to have for a backup.😉

[@GarageLoot]

Another Solid Video. Hyperkin either does really well or flops... nothing inbetween.

[@jorgeehernandez6930]

Hey should I buy this or the analogue mega sg?

[@mdmenzel]

Is the sound closer to the original than their NES product?

[@dcents5458]

Yes, I would say so, I have them both...i would say the contast seems to be a little bit darker on some games than playing on an original sega...but it doesnt really affect anything.

[@raijin2950]

Does anyone know if the console is getting a PAL region (UK) release?

[@SomeOrangeCat]

Its region free. So is that an issue?

[@raijin2950]

@@SomeOrangeCat Good to know thanks, the only issue then would be shipping costs. Il just wait and see if it gets a UK release for now.

[@yfz350twin]

Will the regular Powerbase Converter work on this?

[@nosebeareatsfudge3275]

Problems i've found, Toy story renders the cut scenes wrong, all mortal kombat games run at wrong speed.

[@9ElevenGamer]

VIRTUA RACING works on the Retro Freak to.

[@johnraymondt.domingo4105]

Its still kinda pricey for me but does it have a micro SD slot you don't mention some of the features

[@FaSMaN]

Could you try Sonic 1 with the volume turned up it's a great sound test for clone consoles

[@oldmanretro949]

If it plays homebrews I will get one!

[@beezle1976]

Having never owned one Im not sure how it connects, but if it can be physically connected and powered properly, I'd be interested in whether or not 32x works with this. If you find the time to check I'd really appreciate you doing so. Thanks.

[@johnhancockretro]

The issue with the 32X is the way it would connect to the console.

[@48hourrecordsteam45]

They should have just remodeled the wireless six button controller that came out back in the day...that one is the best six button ....if only it was able to be plugged and unplugged at will...so we can use it wirelessly as an option

[@AXHEJAZ]

This introduction is way better than your new introduction I don't like the new one.

[@GOJOWrestling]

Looks like a Dream Cast sports edition

[@TruthSword7]

That is exciting, but why not go for the full functionality and offer an HD clone that plays 32x and Sega CD games as well?

[@johnhancockretro]

Probably price

[@KawaiiX13]

Stereo or dual monk or mono? Hardware or emulator?

[@donnellcoleman4379]

does this play 2nd gen sega games cart ?

[@Deaks962]

Does it play Paprium?

[@evilash570]

Does it have a scan line option for hdmi?

[@muddfoot69]

Does it play multi carts?

[@dj_ath]

I took back my thumbs up it was thumbs up 666 so I backed out its 665 so we are safe for now.