Here I have the second version of the Sega Master System, this is one of the earlier versions of the mark 2 as it has Alex Kidd in Miracle World as it's built in game, later, more common versions had Sonic the Hedgehog instead. The original Master System has the Snail Maze as it's built in game, although it was hidden, you had to press UP+1+2 to access it.The Master System was a remodelled export version of the Japanese Sega Mark 3 game console, and the
Game Gear was based on the Master System
There's not much going on with the Master System 2, there's a power switch, reset button, and the cartridge slot beneath a sliding cover on top. The pause button didn't do anything on mine, but after cleaning with an air duster can, it now works.
The base of the console just has the label and nothing else.
The front has two Atari compatible joystick ports, and the rear has RF out and power, The Master System uses the same power adaptor as the original Mega Drive (Genesis)
The control pad is a simple two button rectangle shaped controller. Interestingly it can also be used as a two button joystick on the Amiga
Software
Along with the built in Alex Kidd game, I also have Golden Axe and Alien 3
However...
On trying the cartridges the machine either booted back into Alex Kidd, or showed the above rather worrying error message...
But luckily it was just dirty contacts in the console, and once cleaned they both work perfectly, happy days.
I would love the original Master System next...
Update
Since I published this article, I've bought some more games...
G-Loc
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Master Games 1 (Columns, Super Monaco GP, and World Soccer)
Another game purchased...Miracle WarriorsThis was one of the ex-wife's favourite games when she was a child, along with Gauntlet and Phantasy Star.
More games purchased from Super Tomato in Cardiff
Shinobi
Taito Chase HQ
Castle of Illusion (Starring Mickey Mouse)
I've been on eBay again
Gauntlet
Hardware updates
Sega Control Stick, this is a bit strange as the stick is on the right, and the buttons are on the left, but you would hold a joystick with your right hand, however it just feels weird holding it this way
This was bought at the Bristol Retro Gaming Fair at Temple Meads Station
Software updates
Tom and Jerry The Movie
Special Criminal Investigation
Land of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse
The Ninja
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (No label)
H - STOP in INPUT, 883:1