When deciding to review SG-1000 titles, I considered importing an SG-1000 from Japan. That proved to be an expensive proposition however so I opted for a Sega Mark III, which is essentially the Japanese version of the Sega Master System. Since it's backwards compatible, it allows me to review all the SG-1000 games along with Japanese Master System titles. And it's less than half the price.

Console design: B. The Sega Mark III looks more sophisticated than the SG-1000. It's very sleek but with a lot of hard edges. The cartridge slot has a flip cover and a card slides into the front. Between them is a yellow pause button and a power light. Unlike the Sega Master System, there is no reset button. The power switch is a rocker on the back which feels mushy.

The two controller ports are conveniently located up front, but for some reason the right one is labeled Joy-1 and the left is Joy-2. On the other side is an access panel you can slide off, probably meant to accommodate some sort of expansion module.

Durability: B. I have not heard any negative reports with regards to durability. Mine feels sturdy and the controllers are well-crafted. I guess my main concern is that wonky power switch on the back.

Graphics: B. Same as Sega Master System. Note: I've been advised that due to color palette differences, SG-1000 games may look "incorrect" on the Sega Master III. Certain games however may actually look better.

Audio: C. Same as Sega Master System.

Controllers: B-. These are a marked improvement over the American Sega Master System controllers. They are smaller and better-constructed with a tight directional pad and firm buttons. It is odd however that the two buttons have no labels. Also, having the wire run out of the right side was a curious design decision, as it tends to get in your way.

Media: C. Mark III cartridges are exactly like SG-1000 cartridges, except the cartridges are molded beige plastic instead of black.

Packaging: C. The Sega Mark III cartridges were sold in gold boxes that are a bit larger than the SG-1000 boxes. The gaudy gold color scheme and bright artwork have a way of grabbing your attention. The instructions are red text printed on white paper, which looks truly obnoxious.

Pack-in Game: None

Launch titles: D. Hang On, Teddy Boy.

Collectability: D. If you have the desire to play pre-Genesis Sega games on native hardware, the Sega Mark III is the way to go. Keep in mind however that importing the games from Japan is not exactly cheap.

Pros and Cons:
+ Plays SG-1000 games
+ Plays Japanese Sega Mark III titles
+ Better controllers than Sega Master System
- No reset button
- Wonky power switch
- Games expensive to import

Related Reviews:

SG-1000 Console Review

Dina 2-in-1 Console Review

Sega Master System Console Review

Console Review Index

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