Sonic the Hedgehog Moved From Sega Genesis to Master System and Game Gear in 1991! 8-Bit History

Sonic on Master System and Game Gear were great! (Chapter Markers and more below!)
When I finished the 16-Bit Sonic video, I knew I would have to come back and do the 8-Bit story right! If you missed the epic "Sonic is 30" watch it here! • Sonic the Hedgehog 30t...
Episode Information
GTV 119 "Sonic 8" Season 6 Episode 15
Original Airdate: October 29 2021
Produced October 8-26, 2021
Recorded at Butsudan Studios and edited on my 15" MacBook Pro with Touch Bar, which was starting to show signs of age, though rock-solid.
Produced with Final Cut Pro and Photoshop, which my job paid for!
0:00 Pre-emption
0:10 GTV ID: Pint-Sized Power!
0:18 Introduction: Equally Important
1:11 Act 1: Catching Up With Sonic Team
4:32 CM 1: Sonic is FREE on Game Gear! (U.S., 1991)
5:14 Act 2: Yuzo Koshiro Answers the Call
11:38 CM 2: Takahashi's Game Gear Train Trip (Japan, 1992)
12:04 Act 3: Run, 8-Bit Hedgehog, Run!
16:19 CM 3: Sonic is Here (Brazil, 1991)
17:00 Act 4: The Legacy of 8-Bit Sonic
GTV is now on Odysee! Join us!! odysee.com/$/invite/@GTV-Japan:d
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Some information and scans came from Sega Retro, truly the ultimate Sega site. As for the SMS photo, I don't know who did it. If it was you, tell me so I can add it to the credits.
The Game Gear sales data came from Janessa Olsen / requiem-for-a-game-gear

[@GTV-Japan]

What are your favorite memories of Sonic on Game Gear or Master System?

[@only1gameguru]

Game overs on stage 2-3 in Sonic 2 due to Sonic leaving the screen.

[@GTV-Japan]

@@only1gameguru ha! I remember that! Of course it was murder trying to get pst the first rolling cart. Took forever to figure it out at lest for me

[@GTV-Japan]

@@rockdesu I know the kids with game boys were jealous

[@GTV-Japan]

That would be strange. I can’t imagine a world without Atari

[@grinbrothers]

My experience with them was mostly through compilations, with my one memory of Sonic 1 (or was it 2) on the Game Gear coming from when I managed to play on my cousin's Game Gear without her noticing. She'd otherwise refuse to let me play on it. Otherwise, I experienced the games on the Sonic Gems Collection and had a great time with Tails Adventure, Sonic Drift 2 and I believe Triple Trouble.

[@cakelayer]

This game is absolutely BRUTAL, ragequit at scrap brain, and labyrinth zone is even harder than the 16-bit version, hey, at least the first 2 zones werent too bad

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah it is!! The maze is hard to decipher and skybase zone takes patience! Thanks for watching 🦔

[@kimi4440]

I had sonic 2 for gamegear and the first boss is impossible.

[@Victory-in-YAHUSHA]

​​@@kimi4440Sonic 2 8-bit is much harder than the Master System version.

[@WikiRafa]

8-bit Sonic 1 was more popular and, to this day, is more well remembered in Brazil than the Sega Genesis / Mega Drive one. Master System's Sonic 2 was also the centerpiece of Tectoy's marketing when it was released. TV commercials and store promos featured this version instead of the Mega Drive one. I still remember seeing the image of Sonic flying a hang glider in department and toy stores. However, the 16 bits version of Sonic 2 is more fondly remembered here, as it was the pack-in game in Mega Drive from 1993 to 1997, a time span where the 16 bits console was the best selling one, surpassing Master System after it become cheaper.

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s interesting! Thanks for sharing this information! It seems strange to us bu I love hearing how different regions did things 🦔

[@Larry]

Great feature Sir, I loved the 8-bit Sonic as a kid. I even prefered some of it to the 16 bit versions in some respect, the traditional platformy levels were far faster than the ones in the MD version, Marble Zone and Labyrinth Zones are just a chore to play on 16 bit. Oh, Go! was never a magazine in the UK, it was the handheld supliment in each issue of CVG in the early-mid '90s.

[@pferreira1983]

My introduction to Sonic was the first game as a pack in with the Master System. Now Alex Kidd was a great game but the first SMS Sonic was a terrific pack in.

[@GTV-Japan]

Doh! I knew the same people made it but didn’t know it was a supplement. I guess it’s still not untrue that it’s from the UK though right? 🦔

[@GTV-Japan]

I’m sure it moved a lot of units. Really a smart move

[@Estorium]

Sonic 1 on SMS was my first Sonic game and I still far prefer it to the MD version. That changed with Sonic 2 though.

[@GTV-Japan]

I’m seeing a lot of people commenting they did not like sonic 2 on sms/gg. Interesting findings!

[@grinbrothers]

The care that goes into maintaining your style of presentation through is always incredible. I'm already quite familiar with the 8-bit Sonic history but the exact formation of Ancient was all new to me and it was fascination to learn of Yuzo Koshiro and the family company that made the Master System and Game Gear Sonic 1.

[@GTV-Japan]

Hey thanks for coming back. I’m glad you liked the video 🦔

[@ikagura]

Nice to see a video tackling the lesser known games in the franchise. Still wondering why Sega hasn't made a GG/SMS compilation already.

[@Larry]

There's one on the Gamecube Sonic collection as an unlockable, but never it's own proper one.

[@ikagura]

@@Larry Mega Collection (Plus) and Gems Collection right? I really wish for a proper collection just to not be confused with each releases (especially since some Game Gear and Master System port were European/Brazil exclusive) and I hope to see the first Phantasy Star on Steam as 2 3 4 are already there.

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah it’s unusual why they never have. But I got most of those games on the 3ds so as for a compilation, I never really thought about it

[@Nikku4211]

@@Larry And there are a few Game Gear games on the PS2 Sonic collection that are available from the get go. It's how I found out about the Game Gear in the first place, actually.

[@kathrynradonich3982]

@@Larry did not know that. Will have to find my copy and unlock it

[@JVeg199X]

That scoring system for Sonic 1 8-bit was quite special. Since you get a ton of points for each life left at the end of the game, it makes every action (collecting rings, exploring, beating enemies, not dying) meaningful, resulting in incredible replayability- similar to Vs. Super Mario Bros.

[@GTV-Japan]

YES! I agree! Games without a score don't have much point, I say!

[@ArchGeek]

The best days, are the days GTV uploads. Thanks man.

[@GTV-Japan]

Gokujo Television!

[@SuperTrainStationH]

Before watching, I want to say thank you for making this video. I’m a 90s kid and came to love video games and sonic based wholely on his 8 bit adventures. I stream Sonic 1 for bot Game Gear and Master System fairly regularly and find it normal for people to wander into the stream thinking it’s either a bootleg game, or a fan-made “demake” of what Sonic might have been like if it had come out prior to the creation of the Genesis. I look forward to seeing your video when I return home and thank you in advance for your coverage of these frequently (especially in the US) games.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for the comment I hope you enjoy the video! 🦔

[@dan6138]

what's your stream mate? id be keen on watching

[@SuperTrainStationH]

@@dan6138 if you look on my channel on this account, you can find stream vod videos that have links to my Twitch page in the description that you can follow, I’m actually planning to play sonic in the near future, but I don’t want to be rude to the creator by explicitly plugging my Twitch here, thanks for the interest!

[@ThiagoEliasRezendeSilva]

This video is amazing. Master System was very popular in Brazil in 91. The price was a lot smaller than Genesis, so it helped. SMS Sonic 1 was the first version I ever played, and alongside Genesis version, they contributed a lot for my passion for Sonic. I still play SMS Sonic 1 and it's amazing

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for sharing your memories, its great to hear about how things were in Brazil. A lot of us in the rest of the world are very fascinated how the SMS was so popular and long lived there.

[@blackphoenix77]

Oh come on, I wanted to see that episode of Lawn Darts: Travel Edition. 🙂

[@GTV-Japan]

Don’t forget the floor is ice cream. That one looked good too 😂

[@JHATDRUMMER1976]

mario and luigi unclog a koopa will not be seen instead heres something more flushable

[@GTV-Japan]

Nice one

[@jaycenteno8385]

I always get such a fun kick outta the classic commercials, even the ones from different regions still somehow manage to feel nostalgic! :)

[@GTV-Japan]

yea and i just think its so cool the SMS sonic had a commercial. thats all 3 being covered

[@thewingedavenger1007]

Excellent video as always! I don't have any nostalgia for it, but I played the SMS version Sonic the Hedgehog on emulation and I loved it! I doesn't get much recognition probably because people assume it's just a dumbed-down port of the SMD.

[@GTV-Japan]

I didn’t have any nostalgia either but in the early days of eBay it’s went on a sms binge because it was like a new world had opened up. Thanks for watching as always 🦔

[@CommodoreFan64]

Awesome documentary, and I was a GameGear Kid in the 90's when all my other friends had the Game Boy, and I was a super early adopter of the Game Gear, so I had to get Sonic on it's own, I was so early of an adopter that in the box as a way for SEGA to say thank you, they included a card you filled out with a list of games you could check off, and you would get one from that list as random for free, and I ended up with Columns, which I did not like at first, but ended up become one of my favorite games on the system next to Sonic, and Sonic Chaos. 👍🏻

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for sharing your memories! I though columns just came with each unit standard. But loved gg columns!! I only play with fruit pieces to this day. 🦔

[@CommodoreFan64]

@@GTV-Japan Yes there was a Columns bundle, but early on SEGA had a core pack for the Game Gear with no game included in the box, but a free game offer as I mentioned along with SEGA Visions Magazine, and that's what my mother bought me, with Sonic after it was released as I got mine for my birthday on July 4th, 1991, with Super Monaco GP, and The GG Shinobi being the first 2 games I got with the system if I remember correctly.

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s really cool! I guess they were rushed to get it out

[@EoR_2B4GOT10]

I love the 8bit Sonic titles they were so much fun and for master system games the music was pretty good

[@GTV-Japan]

The music is awesome. Shame it doesn’t get more credit but how many games has Yuzo done? Like a million so it’s weird this game gets kind of forgotten but it’s understandable as the list is so long. Thanks for watching 🦔

[@Something-Waffle]

Sonic on the Game Gear was my gateway into Sega. I was one of those stubborn Nintendo loyalists back then, and stuck to my guns of opposing all things Sega...until the Game Gear came around. I remember playing Sonic, and Shinobi 2: The Silent Fury so hard until the batteries died. I still refused to own a Genesis, and all of the other Sega platforms, but somehow in my 14 year old mind, I made concessions for the Game Gear. Unfortunately, with the exception of the Game Gear, I ended up missing out on all of the great Sega titles in my teenage years. It wasn't until I was much older, and realized that brand loyalty was for suckers, that I finally played all of the great Sega games I missed out on as a hard headed youth. The Game Gear is the only thing Sega related that I have nostalgia for, and Sonic The Hedgehog for the Game Gear brings back so many special memories for me. Your video made all of those awesome memories come flooding back.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for sharing your memories! I think a lot of Otha’s game gears but not genesis for a few reasons and maybe having an nes snes or just no access to a tv could be why. Lots of people here were game gear only so it’s nice to see that point of view🦔

[@Fuuntag]

I appreciate you taking your time to focus specifically on the 8-bit versions. Thanks 🙂

[@GTV-Japan]

You’re welcome!🦔🦔🦔

[@andresbravo2003]

The 8-Bit Sonic could be great for the Master System and Game Gear. Thanks for the nostalgic video GTV Japan!

[@GTV-Japan]

You’re welcome!🦔🦔

[@Prodmullefc]

that traffic signs concept is actually really smart. I always thought sonic's speed was the original games biggest weakness because you just can't see what's coming fast enough to react to it. if they had more signs like that with specific suggestions (like forked road, spikes, slow, jumps, etc) it would make going full speed a lot more manageable, and by extension, fun. a great video as always. I didn't GameGear was considered an 8bit platform because I remember it looking a LOT better than the NES and assumed it had almost the same graphic capacity as the Genesis but at lower frame rate or something. Just makes you wonder why the NES had such limited color palettes and tiny sprites if GG could manage more on a portable platform. I mean, why did Crystal Warriors look so much better than Fire Emblem?

[@GTV-Japan]

It really was powerful. I guess because Sega kept upgrading hardware rather than like Nintendo add functionality to software. Very interesting to ponder 🤔

[@Leahi84]

This was really well-made. Your videos are great, and I hope you get more attention.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks! I hope so too. Thanks for the support 🦔

[@ramiyohay7286]

And here we are 30 years later, Sonic still alive and kicking. I never played the 8-bit version although I spent many years with Sega Master System...

[@GTV-Japan]

No time like the present!🦔 I say go get to it

[@ramiyohay7286]

@@GTV-Japan I leave it to my son :)

[@GTV-Japan]

Sounds good 👍

[@BrothaKyo]

Honestly, I remember first playing the Game Gear version off of someone when I was a kid for a brief moment. Stuck out in my mind, ever since, to the point I wanted to track down that original game (which at the time, wasn't too easy). I remember when a retro store opened up in my mid teens I finally find it, busting it out on a lot of trips out with my family. While Sonic 1 on the Genesis was important to me, this version might have been my favorite from the variation from the norm.

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah I agree! I think for younger kids at that time they probably played game gear more as it didn’t take up the tv and so there’s a lot of memories there too. Thanks for watching 🦔

[@M3troid.]

For some reason, here in Brazil, Sonic was called a porcupine instead of hedgehog.

[@GTV-Japan]

Oh I see. Didn’t know that! Thanks for the info 🦔

[@hackwrench5583]

Sonic 2 on the Game Gear was the first game that I ever owned. Hard game but loved it, shame that you couldn't play as Tails though, I really wanted to. Later found a Power Base converter at a flea market for cheap, and Sonic 2 Master System was the first game that I imported for it. Still no Tails, well.. until I got my hands on the code and made that dream a reality.

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah that was weird since he was pushed as a co-star in the 16 bit sonic 2. Weird! Thanks for watching 🦊

[@tommylakindasorta3068]

Another great video. I've never been into handheld gaming because way back when I got my Master System, it felt more natural to place my thumbs under the controller and use my fingers to move the D-pad and buttons. I got so used to playing that way that I have never been able to play any other way, which has made handheld gaming almost impossible for me. I had no idea my unorthodox method of holding a controller would have such dire consequences! But I've played the GG sonic games via emulation and they are great.

[@GTV-Japan]

Hey Tommy good to see you back! Nice comment. I never thought of it but the gg does imitate the genesis layout where the buttons are kind of on a diagonal slant which does contrast the previous generation of sms and nes. Thanks for watching as always 🦔

[@Blugenesi]

The 8-Bit games were always a curiosity to me, and as a long time Sonic fan, I did finally go and beat the first 3 of them. In fact I will say that while I really do think 8 bit Sonic 1 is a fantastic game in it's own right and deserves attention far more then what it ended up getting. But the second game, Sonic 2, was god-awful. I do know that both Sonic 1 AND 2 8 Bit were in development for the game gear at the same time (an Autodemo of Sonic 2 8-Bit was found dated December 1991, when the GG version of 1 was still unreleased for a week or two) so I have no idea how Aspect (The developers behind all the other games on MS and GG afaik) still released such a miserable product for September 1992, but it shows how talented Ancient were with their game. I got so mad with Sonic 2 8-Bit that it was the reason I made my video on the Master System Sonic's I imported, which now feels kind of... outdone by this amazing documentary. Great job!

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah I remember really not liking the 8 bit sonic 2. I’ll have to go back and try it out. That’s strange to hear sonic 2 was started in 91. The story I’ve heard is that soj wants to sit on sonic 1 a while and sonic team was pushed to work harder on a shorter time frame when they realized they should make sonic 2 asap. I guess I’ll have to look that up! Thanks for the info 🦔

[@kimi4440]

Sonic 2 is fine just play the master system version lol

[@coconut4219]

Great video man! Sonic Chaos is probably my favorite of the 8-bit Sonics mainly because of nostalgia haha. I played that one a LOT growing up.

[@GTV-Japan]

Cool! I liked that one too. It really showed how much you could put into a tiny game 🦔

[@KasumiKenshirou]

Aside from occasionally playing the 16-bit versions in store demos, etc., the only Sonic games I played for any significant amount of time were the Game Gear versions of Sonic 1 & 2.

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s cool. I’m sure there’s lots of people out there who only had a game gear. Thanks for watching 🦔

[@SocksFC]

Very professionally made! You’ve got a new sub!

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks ! Check out the rest of the channel when you have time 🦔

[@lupeayala3125]

My my my....the memories...In 1991 I got my Genesis with the pack in Sonic for Christmas. I was in love with the game so you can imagine my excitement when Sonic 2 then Sonic 3 was announced. Awesome times! I still have my original Genesis in box and Sonics 1, 2 & 3. All very dear to my ❤. Thanx my friend for another awesome premium video! Salud!!!👍🍻🍻👌

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks Lupe! I’m glad you liked it 🦔

[@anothermanofculture208]

& knuckles

[@Justin-Hill-1987]

A romhacker named Valleybell has modded a Sonic the Hedgehog Master System ROM to output the Master System's FM synth when playing the music in each of the zones, giving each of the zones a more orchestral-sounding soundtrack...

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah I’ve heard those! They sound awesome!

[@andrejg4136]

I just wanna say, I see what you did there with the "You Can't Do that On Television" style cold open. Man that takes me back years upon years...

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks! I don’t know if they invented it but it’s the one I most remember. Looking back years later SNL would sometimes do that and I wanna say laugh in did too but I might be misremembering. Anyway I like putting things like that for the 1% of the audience who will get it and appreciate it. My plan was just to do that this year but try something else next year

[@PressStartToContinueYT]

What a great video as always, I learned a lot! I like how you bring up the names of the individuals mentioned at the bottom of the screen. That's something I have to start doing!

[@GTV-Japan]

Hey friend! Good to see ya back! I’m glad you like the lower thirds. If you set up a photoshop template then it’s really really easy to change the text and make a bunch really quickly! It looks like it’s time consuming but for this video it took about 30-45 minutes. If you want some help let me know 👍

[@lancelnce]

Here in Brazil Tectoy released a Master System 3 compact that came with Sonic already installed in the memory so sonic 8-bit was famous around here

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s really cool

[@chazmaru9583]

Great job and very creative editing as always.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thank you! 🦔

[@JustJohn43]

The words "Sonic Mania has hit the world" being published in 1991 is crazy foreshadowing. Sonic project mania is nearing the final stages of completion

[@GTV-Japan]

I would call it full fledged mania. Certainly 🦔

[@ChromeColossus]

I finally had the chance to watch this! Another fantastic video. I had no idea Yuzo Koshiro was responsible for Sega Master System Sonic. Thank you for making this and for always putting such high quality into these videos.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for liking it so much! I think it’s a testament to his greatness that this game gets kind of forgotten’ if it was anyone else surely, the game would be synonymous with the creator. But Yuzo is a machine and I can’t even list all his games. But this one is one of my favs by him. 🦔

[@ScottWozniak]

5:34 That footage is from Shinobi III which Yuzo did not compose. 👍🏻

[@GTV-Japan]

What? Doh!

[@GTV-Japan]

I think my mistake comes from the 16 bit being games called super Shinobi 1and 2 in Japan. Oh well I guess seppuku is the only honorable way to correct the damage I’ve done 🗡

[@ScottWozniak]

@@GTV-Japan Not a big deal, my man! I appreciate your work! Just wanted to point it out so you know the difference! ✌🏻

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks now I know!

[@thePoetDominic]

Excellent video! I love the 8 bit sonic games so much, especially the first one, which was the first video game I ever owned. Your video is brilliant. Thank you for making it

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for sharing your story 🦔

[@elfiebranford9330]

I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but I always love the little additional factoids in these videos. Although this was all about Sonic, I was both shocked and deeply interested about Ancient. The idea of a company being comprised of one's family--all just to secure a contract--is something I never thought I'd learn about!! Cheers to another GTV masterpiece~!!

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks Elfie! I’ll be touching on ancient again in part next year but yeah it’s amazing to think this game was put together with such a small team and Yuzo has such a legacy that this game is way way down on the bottom of the list of games people bring up!🦔

[@elfiebranford9330]

@@GTV-Japan Oh, that's awesome~!! I cannot wait to hear more about Ancient!!

[@GTV-Japan]

It’s like Tom petty said. The wait is the hardest part

[@theultimatepololo]

Finally someone in KZbin talking about the awesome and underrated legacy of Sonic on the 8 bit Sega machines, Yuzo Koshiro and his sister made and amazing work with the Master System and Game Gear Sonic titles, Sonic 1, 2 and Chaos are 3 of the greatest 8 bit platformers ever made (in my mind there is only one 8 bit platformer that surpass them in quality, and that is Super Mario Bros 3), and if you go the Game Gear path you can even play another master piece that was a exclusive for the Sega portable machine: Sonic Triple Trouble, and thats not all, Sonic Blast (even if is not as good as the other four 8 bit Sonic games) is a good platformer too. And don´t make me talk about Tails´s adventure, that is the best Sonic spin off ever made, crazy master piece of a game. For me, the 8 bit Sonic legacy is as good as its 16 bit one, and in some aspects even better and more diverse.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and opinions! I agree the 8 bit set is awesome. I didn’t know that they weren’t being talked about. 🦔

[@ChEd1980]

The first Sonic game I played was Sonic 1 on the Master System as I didn't own a Mega Drive as a kid as I ended up with an Amiga 600 for 16bit gaming. Played a ton of 8-bit sonic games on the Game Gear back in the day....Sonic 1, 2 and Chaos and I have since played Triple Trouble on it too. My original Game Gear is still working and has been modified with a modern TFT screen but Tails Adventure is getting pricey so not sure if I'll be able to find a cartridge copy of that for a reasonable price but I'd love to play that on original hardware!

[@GTV-Japan]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing your story! 🦔

[@hyperpuppy2]

I love this channel. I feel like I’m watching a tv station with the great commercials. 😊 I just looked at the clock and I’ve been watching for 3 hours. Keep up the great work.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thank you so much I appreciate the support! I have worked in tv and radio so maybe that feeling shows through on here. Have a great weekend🦔

[@retrogearcustoms]

Just found your channel, this video is awesome and really shows off the power that sonic had as a brand ambassador, but also just how good the game gear was as a handheld. Easily one of the best games in history.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks I’m glad you liked the video! 🦔🦔🦔

[@thehumbleone1983]

Great video as a kid I remember I had Sonic on my Sega master system here in Australia and loved it

[@GTV-Japan]

Awesome! Every Australian I know grew up on Sega!

[@sadriposting]

First time on this channel and i have to say, kinda dig those self inserted ads to watch other videos, it gives that TV vibe

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks I’m glad you like it. The idea came to me because a lot of channels do show those old ads but talk over them. I wanted to see the ad! I kind of took the idea from TV Land that used to played old commercials between shows sometimes. They called them “retromercials” but also I like the idea of the act break where I can write information into 2 3 or 4 parts and present it, let the information deep in then give your brain a rest )and some entertainment) before moving onto the next part. Thanks for finding the channel and don’t be a stranger! I reply to every comment so come back check out some old videos and tell me what you think 🦔

[@thatguy7161]

Had this one the Master System, loved it, could finish it in one go getting all the emeralds and not losing a life. 1st game console I owned.

[@GTV-Japan]

Great to hear!

[@CheeseBlaster]

Fun Fact: The first several notes of the Game Gear version of Sonic 1's credits theme is reused (remade? rearranged?) in Savannah Citadel Day from Sonic Unleashed!

[@GTV-Japan]

You’re right. That is fun.

[@heyhonpuds]

Brit here. The Master System really was way more popular than the NES due to Nintendo's negligence of the European market at that time. I only knew a couple of kids with a NES. Everyone else had the MS. Back when you could find video games in the wild at second hand stores, garage sales and the like you'd barely find any NES games, mostly MS. I picked up a boxed complete copy of Golden Axe Warrior for £1 in 1998. Still have it too. I easily prefer MS sonic 1 over the MD. It's a more challenging game with better level design, and I'm a sucker for a Yuzo Koshiro soundtrack. I do like MD Sonic 1 of course. MD Sonic 2 beats the MS game hand down though. I enjoy MS Sonic 2, but the MD one is just a far more slick playing experience. Sonic Chaos was OK, but disappointingly easy compared to the previous two entries. Great vid GTV. Good to some attention brought to these sometimes neglected games, and it's even better that you're the one doing it.

[@GTV-Japan]

Hey Heyhon! Didn’t know you were a Brit! Great comment here! It seems like golden axe warrior is common everywhere. Even in the US they were giving it away. Something I learned when I researched the first sonic video I did is that sms sales in the uk were something like 1.1 million in 91, megadrive was about 800k while nes was only 50k! I prefer the 8 bit sonic too that’s why I made the video even though sonic 16 was still amazing the sms one jut has some quality I can’t verbalize. Cheers for the great comment have a good weekend! 🍺

[@heyhonpuds]

@@GTV-Japan- Thanks GTV. Yeah, I had the great fortune to be born on this rainy island. I hope to emigrate one day. I'm really not made for this climate. I had no idea about those sales figures, but it really doesn't surprise me. It's not just a meme, the Master System really was way more popular than the NES here. From what I can gather the only place the MS was more popular is Brazil. Here's another piece of anecdotal evidence for you. I never encountered a single rental shop that hired out NES games, but certain stores were still loaning MS games into the mid 90's!

[@AirZonkWorldChamp]

Ohya, I like 8-bit Sonic just as much as the 16-bit version!

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah its great! doesn't feel 8-bit at all if that makes sense. Thanks for watching as always! 🦔

[@AirZonkWorldChamp]

@@GTV-Japan I get it, 8-bit Sonic feels like an expansion pack if you play 16-bit Sonic first since the stages are completely new.

[@GTV-Japan]

Yah that’s a good way to put it!

[@philipmurphy2]

Considering what the limits were at the time, The 8 bit people actually did do well and the Game Gear would of being a great portable system at the time for playing Sonic on the move.

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah I agree. It’s really amazing what the game is. Thanks for watching 🦔

[@executor45]

As usual, an awesome video! Some of my friends had a game gear and I thought it was such an awesome system with the backlight. (all I had was a gameboy haha) sonic was one of the games that they had and would spend hours trying to beat it. Shinobi, mega man 5, and even disney's alladin were some games we had. Great system!

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks I’m glad you liked it! Game gear was a sweet package. Shame it didn’t last longer! ⚙️

[@mightyfilm]

The Master System always had a weird mystique for me, as no one I knew had one. I knew several people that had Genesis and Game Gears, even on that had the SEGA CD (we never actually played that one except for the odd Power Rangers real time FMV thing). But never the Master System. I've seen it. I knew it existed. I don't even think they had those in store demonstrations for that system. I don't even remember a major push to bring the system back with the Sonic game.

[@GTV-Japan]

There was no real push. I think it was mail order only as evidenced by the print ad I found as the only promotion of the game I could find. However best I recall in 89-90 there was a big push to sell the sms especially the power base converter. I guess in trying to show how the genesis was better than snes they stopped everything else to focus on that. Thanks for watching on day one as always my friend! 🦔

[@2j4ez]

Really you knew no one had one? When i was in secondary school 1990s most of the class had one Im from the uk and the sms was everywhere in all shops and mags

[@mightyfilm]

@@2j4ez The SMS was big in Europe and parts of South America, but not so much in the US. That was Nintendo territory as far as the 8- Bits were concerned. Of course, by the time me and any of the friends I've had or would make were old enough to get really interested in video games, the Genesis started popping up in the US. Just missing the SMS. I knew of the system through commercials and trips to the toy store, but it just never had a presence at that point for me. And unlike any of Nintendo or Sega's other systems, I don't even think they had one of those set ups to try games in the stores.

[@RobsonRoverRepair]

First time I played Sonic was on a Master System 1, which was set up as a display in my local Curry's store. I was totally blown away. It was funny that I was extremely lucky to get Sonic 1 and Mega drive for my birthday shortly after. I was absolutely blown away, but to this day, Sonic 1 MS is still my first experience. And you know what, Sonic changed my life.

[@GTV-Japan]

I’ve found that just as many started with sonic on 8 bit that did on 16. It really is the unsung hero of Sega in those days. Thanks for watching 🦔

[@chrisbarfield83]

Around Christmas '91, I was originally supposed to get an Atari Lynx. But, after playing Game Gear for the first time with Sonic 1 in the cartridge slot I had to get my own. I had to wait for Sonic to come in the mail. Revenge of Dracon held me off until it's arrival.

[@GTV-Japan]

Same! But it was psychic world and I had a Lynx anyway 🦔

[@chrisbarfield83]

@@GTV-Japan I have Psychic World also. It's reminds me of Mega Man

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah! I can see that! Memories♬

[@Ryuhei64]

Master System and Sonic 8 bit was very popular in Spain, neck to neck with NES and Mario in the early 90s. I think Master System II sold more than NES.

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s cool! I’m sure it did. Thanks for watching 🦔🦔

[@beauwalker9820]

"Tails Adventure" is underrated.

[@GTV-Japan]

It is!

[@Thameness]

Oh, the brazilian Sonic ad at the end brings back so many memories!!!

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s cool to hear! Seeing it online years after means I have no context. I can imagine it being played during favorite tv shows back then. Thanks for sharing your memories 🦔🦔

[@Thameness]

@@GTV-Japan It was on TV most of the day. Tec Toy was a huge company, having a lot of screen time when it came down to ads and commercials back then and even had their own TV show. So, you could always see Sega related commercials on TV.

[@GTV-Japan]

I could imagine! Same in the USA. Tec toy had a tv show? That seems interesting.

[@Thameness]

@@GTV-Japan kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZqXYXZ6n52FZqM it was more like a huge SEGA commercial than a show.

[@pauloninjinha]

Ohhh i have that supergame magazine! I even remember that tv ad for Sonic here on Brazil from that time. Amazing video as always

[@GTV-Japan]

That's cool! I was happy to find it because it's only fair the sms sonic gets an advertisement too.

[@JustJulyo]

Can see more people covering this game next year as they discover this video

[@GTV-Japan]

It will be like a reverse “Simpsons did it”

[@lulukat1670]

Yes My Fist Time Playing Sonic Was The 8Bit Build in to SMS one :D And i loved it :D The 8Bit ones is still my Favorites :D TY for a Knotter Grate Video :D .

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for watching as always 🦔

[@Leikjarinn]

Your voice, your videos, your editing and your creativity is AMAZING my good man!

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks! I’m glad you like my style!!🦔🦔🦔

[@martinewt]

I have been watching all your videos in order and at this point it is pretty obvious you are a kind of a Sega fanboy 😂 But doesn't matter, I still love your videos, they are very well produced and informative. Much respect and love! ❤

[@GTV-Japan]

If you watch certain videos you’ll see how it tells the tale of how I started on Atari moves to Nintendo, then got disillusioned and moved to Sega. All that’s left is the move to PlayStation !

[@martinewt]

@@GTV-Japan interesting! can you please pinpoint which videos show this? I don't think I have come across them (or maybe I wasn't paying enough attention 😅)

[@GTV-Japan]

Mario 3 Mario world sonic 1 sonic 2 Kirby basically set the story arc.

[@The666cuervo]

Excelente reportaje como siempre!!!

[@GTV-Japan]

Gracias 🦔

[@Fellipe2k5]

I played the sonic and castle of ilusion of the master system at home and at my cousin's house I played the Mega Drive versions. Aside from the graphic, at the time I liked the master versions more

[@GTV-Japan]

I agree. There is a certain charm to it that I can’t explain. Thanks for watching on day one as always 🦔

[@Rwirwi1]

Love the sonic 1 gg completion music used at the end here 👍 Tune!

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks I’m glad you liked that little touch🦔🦔

[@Falcon24000]

GTV.. Where you can live your nostalgia again.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks. Let it run wild 🦔

[@Falcon24000]

@@GTV-Japan I love your channel

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks 🍺

[@j-555]

Good to see you still making videos looking forward to more. Having a life is overrated -- stay in and make videos. Jk

[@GTV-Japan]

I only make videos while working! So I better not quit my job to be a KZbinr🦔

[@estahbear]

The beginning was hilarious.

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks!!🦔

[@baconlabs]

I thought I was up to speed on Sonic's history until I played Sonic Adventure DX. _What do you mean, I've unlocked an 8-bit Sonic the Hedgehog game?_

[@GTV-Japan]

I think that’s what it is! 🦔

[@BlUsKrEEm]

I'll take 8bit Sonic over 16bit Sonic... With the exception of Sonic 2. I still have war flashbacks from that sand lion

[@GTV-Japan]

Haha it’s understandable

[@leroyvisiongames2294]

I love how you used the dummied out 8-Bit Marble Zone music from Sonic on the Master System for the beginning of the video. Kinda wish that level was included in the 8-bit Sonic games because that music is a very nice rendition of the original theme.

[@GTV-Japan]

I don't know exactly where it came from, but i figured what the hey! Thanks for watching!

[@leroyvisiongames2294]

@@GTV-Japan It’s an unused track contained within the source code to the Master System/Game Gear version of Sonic 1. Also, I never knew the 8- and 16-bit version were basically developed in tandem-I guess that explains the little differences in gameplay and rules (and why they chose to put both an auto-scrolling level and a Kid Icarus-style vertical platforming level where the bottom of the screen kills you in a Sonic game)

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeh I knew it was from the game code I just don’t know who made that public first. The game gear version doesn’t have the kid Icarus style insta death in the jungle thankfully. Though you’ll often drop on something that will hurt you anyway 😂

[@ABPositive03]

Can't wait to see the episode but had to pause right away for the Nada Surf reference in the opener - that's a band I hadn't thought of in many a year!

[@ABPositive03]

and now I want to replay some game gear sonic - I had a game gear as a kid, but only two games - Sonic the Hedgehog and WWF Steel Cage Challenge. One was... better than the other, for sure!

[@GTV-Japan]

I listen to them nearly every day! But yeah they got a raw deal because they were a great band but were stuck as a “novelty” band because of Popular which the rest of their songs don’t even sound like. I should have made a music channel but if I did I’m sure copyright strikes would have killed it by now

[@GTV-Japan]

Dig it out and relieve the good old days🦔

[@ABPositive03]

@@GTV-Japan Ironically "Popular" making them Popular for that short time sunk their other songs. Reminds me of other bands of the time like Spacehog and Flaming Lips that are great but not a whole lot like the one song that became a hit. Might have to check Nada Surf's other stuff out now, I admit I don't think I gave them a chance either back in the day.

[@GTV-Japan]

I was lucky enough to see Nada Surf with Superdrag in 1996. It was great! They played Popular me said here’s a song about something we never were not want to be 😂 I saw spacehog too. They toured with everclear for a while. Both opened for the chili peppers then did their own. I like the Chinese Album a lot but there was this kind of like purge of rock music going on in 97-98 where lots of bands should have been successful with a follow up but weren’t. They did tour with oasis later though so that’s not a bad way to go out

[@danmorley6517]

Watching you play sonic on the master system was painful, I know that game better then the back of my hand. Had the European master system with it built in, it was my pride and joy while all my richer friends had the mega drive, snes or Amiga!

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s pretty cool!

[@JustAnotherGamer1005]

Funny how some things are permanently engraved in your memories. I had this 8-bit version first, since at the time I didn't have a Mega-Drive yet. The game was fun, although hard (at the time as a kid and when gaming wasn't an 'addiction' yet). In kids programs, they held these contests where they had to play the first or 2nd level of the 16-bit version. You were only allowed 1 life and the one who was the fastest and got the furthest, won the game and the Mega-Drive. I was jealous, because Sonic on 16-bit looked so cool, bigger (sprites) and better effects (the invincibility stars-trail). I also thought at the time, that first the 8-bit version was released and that the 16-bit was an upgraded version for the 'newer' systems. Didn't think it was the other way around. As an adult, playing the 8-bit version again, I remembered how fun that game actually was and in some ways even better than the 16-bit version, strangely enough. The 8-bit version really has a place in my heart. Lovely graphics, fun gameplay and endearing music.

[@GTV-Japan]

That is funny how you grow up thinking one way and the opposite turns out true. Happened to me a lot. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and memories!🦔🦔🦔

[@JONNYSORENSEN_AU]

Never owned sms Sonic, but one friday after school rented it and stayed up most of the night playing it and finished it the first time i played, luckily had enough continues as died a lot. Both the firsf two sms Sonics are easier and fairer platofrmers than the genesis versions. Still love the soundtracks from both 8 and 16 bit versions. Loved this retrospective video thanks.🐦

[@GTV-Japan]

I’m glad you liked it! It’s interesting to think they fit nearly the same sized game into the sms

[@KenzGamesCollection]

I actually preferred the Sonic games on the Master System than the MegaDrive which I know sounds odd co the 16 bit games were amazing. It just something about the Master System that I really loved back in the day and it was the console that got me into gaming. Excellent video my friend 🙌

[@GTV-Japan]

I like them too! They’re fun!

[@CrashFan03]

pretty good vid so far! I've seen so many reviews of the 8-bit versions but next to none of them talk about how they were made. I would love to hear more stories behind ports like this lol

[@GTV-Japan]

If I can find a way to tell an interesting story then sure I’ll try something else like this. Actually I’ll be preparing the master list for 2022 soon so I’ll take this under consideration 🦔

[@CrashFan03]

@@GTV-Japan what about sonic 2 8-bit? i'd love to hear more about how that game was made

[@GTV-Japan]

Sonic 2sday is already on the list!

[@retrobution1262]

It was amazing finding out where the name ancient came from, I had no idea! I've always wondered about the name of 'south island' too...is south island on Mobius? Or is Mobius from the comic/cartoon lore? I really didn't have time for this today...! 😅 Great video as always mate

[@GTV-Japan]

I’m not sure where mobius came from but all the old documents say South Island. I guess originally it was supposed to be a mysterious place that can be anywhere so they didn’t put much detail into it. Not sure! Thanks for watching as always 🦔

[@lonecom685]

I have memories of playing this game with my mom. She was so good at it... She was always busy working and traveling to other countries, but she always found some time to play with me. It also remembers me of my ex girlfriend, since I associate this game with my childhood and we were best friends as kids, long before start dating. So many great memories!!! :)

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and opinions 🦔

[@WikiRafa]

16:19 And now, also on the Master System, Sonic, the supersonic porcupine* and Game of the Year in the United States. Master System's Sonic - "I want to see if you're fast!" - a supersonic idea from Tectoy. * For some random reason, Tectoy called Sonic a porcupine (porco-espinho) and not a hedgehog (ouriço)

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s weird! Thanks for teaching me these words 🦔

[@TheCheat420]

Just saw Sonic 2 and it's a GTV kinda night!

[@GTV-Japan]

Awesome

[@bwillythekid8249]

Will Reiker at 1.55 taking a knee.

[@GTV-Japan]

Wow good eye

[@hhectorlector]

Another excellent video from GTV Japan

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks 🦔

[@-roejogan-]

Most Underrated Channel: GTV

[@GTV-Japan]

Thanks joe!

[@PicsBoson]

For me the Master System version of first Sonic is better than MegaDrive version. And Sonic 2 is better on MegaDrive.

[@GTV-Japan]

On 8 but sonic 2 I had some struggles. Certainly 16bit sonic 2 is better. In my opinion it was the greatest 16 bit game ever. Thanks for watching 🦔

[@RichardCraig]

0:26 - nice little glitch there, lol

[@GTV-Japan]

I didn’t think about it but yah a neat feature for sure!

[@jjhh4096]

You make the best videos

[@GTV-Japan]

Thank you! I appreciate the compliment 🍺🦔

[@Rupninjatrash]

Im from Brazil and grew up with the Sega Master System. I played the 8bit sonic games a lot, but i never got into the Genesis ones!

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s cool. Lots of people from Brazil coming by saying the same thing 🇧🇷

[@dorklymorkly3290]

Ahah, opening strong with that little skit. ...time to watch the rest.

[@GTV-Japan]

I hope you enjoy it 🦔

[@dorklymorkly3290]

@@GTV-Japan It was strong all the way^^.

[@GTV-Japan]

Awesome 👏🏻 cheers 🍻

[@abriansoto8097]

Damn. If I had a dollar for everytime I opened like that with my people 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for giving me something to believe in 🙏🏽

[@GTV-Japan]

You’re welcome! Anytime.

[@hakimmika2379]

The Master system was style big in France at that time, I loved Sonic on MS so much that I bought a Megadrive to play the "original".

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s an interesting point of view!

[@rodrigomarcondes5857]

you can still find master system being sold here in Brazil, only difference is it comes with games built in

[@GTV-Japan]

Master system 3 right? I think that’s cool! They’ve had the mini treatment done right all along!🦔 thanks for watching

[@rodrigomarcondes5857]

@@GTV-Japan i really don't know which model it is or how good it runs the games, in fact your video made me curious about it, i'll look it up. Very entertaining video , well done

[@GTV-Japan]

Oh ok. I’m just going by memory of what I’ve read. Good luck in your search

[@nameless646]

I had a Game Gear and some of the Sonic games for it, but I had never seen a Sega Master System until KZbin.

[@GTV-Japan]

Why not? Its ok if you never tried it before, but you can see it's pretty popular.

[@nameless646]

@@GTV-Japan For whatever reason, my friends never had one and I never saw any in a store, only the Sega Genesis and Game Gear.

[@GTV-Japan]

@nameless646 yeah well. That’s expected.

[@vincemartinelli9689]

The 8 bit version is my favorite Sonic game and I still play it on my game gear! I have always felt the game gear Sonic character looks much better than the Master System one. On the Master System his nose is a lot bigger! Lol.

[@GTV-Japan]

That's funny you mention that. Someone yesterday said the GG Sonic character has NO nose at all 😂 thanks for watching!

[@vincemartinelli9689]

@@GTV-Japan My pleasure! If you look closely, his shoes are bigger on the Master System version too, lol.

[@GTV-Japan]

Yes I noticed that too. I guess they just had more space and all

[@ChampionRevilo]

I played 8-bits Sonic before 16-bits thanks to Game Gear games being unlockables in Sonic Adventure DX, growing up on Nintendo. That's how I discovered 2D Sonic.

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s unusual! But sounds great!🦔🦔🦔🦔

[@ChampionRevilo]

@@GTV-Japan All I knew of Sonic before playing Adventure 2 on GameCube was that cartoon of him with his brother and sister trying to find their mother. I don't remember seing video game commercials in my area before the N64 and PS1 came along and was unaware of anything not related to Nintendo

[@GTV-Japan]

Very interesting nonetheless

[@ReinMixTape]

Great documentary. Sonic 1 is fun for the GG. Sonic 2 for the GG... bit of a nightmare.

[@GTV-Japan]

Yeah. Unfortunately.

[@GCJACK83]

I was one of the lucky few blessed to own an SNES, a Genesis, a Gamegear, a Sega CD, and a Gameboy, and I gotta say. I really wish Sega would do a collection release for Sonic that brings all the 2d series together, including the 8-bit Gamegear games and Sonic CD.

[@GTV-Japan]

Here here! I wonder why they don’t or won’t or can’t?

[@tosenstardom2316]

Got my brothers hand me down Game Gear but all he had was columns to play so I was allowed to purchase one game for a b day and chose Sonic The Hedgehog over Shinobi, but boy did I flog the crap out of that game as well as Columns to be honest and purchased the Master System/Game Gear converter and from then on only played MS games on the Game gear.

[@GTV-Japan]

That’s a great story. You made the right choice 🦔🦔🦔🦔🦔

[@thepenguinsrafterme]

I never played Sonic on an 8 bit system, but I am one of the few that played and enjoyed Sonic 3D Blast, so I do have that going for me

[@GTV-Japan]

I recommend getting an rom and try it out!🦔