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The Sega Neptune is the all-in-one Genesis and 32X retro console that never was. It was supposed to serve as a stopgap for players before investing in the Saturn and its wild new 3D capabilities, but it was inevitably cancelled. However, in an age where it's possible to recreate even the obscurest systems using FPGA tech, it should come as no surprise that it's finally getting a release, and it's almost ready for take-off.
A new video shows the "GF1 Neptune" running Knuckles' Chaotix for the Sega 32X via a Mega Everdrive cartridge, with the demo representing a development milestone (Cheers, Time Extension). The team behind the console, GameCare, confirms that the system is now "up and running" and the main Mega Drive (Genesis), Master System, and 32X are all now functional on the remake.
Originally, the Sega Neptune remake was supposed to land last year, but it was pushed to 2026 to allow for development time. It's worth bearing in mind that this is an FPGA system by a small, community-focused team. That is to say, availability and distribution probably won't be on par with FPGA systems like the Commodore 64 Ultimate or Analogue 3D, and even the latter 4K N64 is frequently out of stock.
We also don't have a price for the GF1 Neptune yet, but again, I'd brace for a pretty eye-watering figure. We're talking handmade hardware in smaller batches, meaning you should leave the MSRP expectations you'd normally tie to mass-produced systems at the door. GamesCare also isn't offering any pre-orders right now, so if you do see any pages taking reservations, they're likely a scam.
The Sega Mega Drive, or Genesis as many of you will call it across the pond, is one of my favorite consoles of all time. Sadly, my hardware collection stops at my beloved Mega CD add-on, as I've never been lucky enough to find a 32X for an affordable price. I like to think it's players like me who'll be eyeing up this Nepture remake, not least since it offers up all the perks of FPGA hardware replication while offering an experience that never saw light of day.
My only reservation right now is with the price. I'm not convinced I'll be able to afford the GF1 Neptune, but the good news is there are 32X MiSter cores out there you can use with DIY setups. You could even use the SuperStation One to run your ROMs if you've already got one of those, and while that's a cheaper solution, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't longing for something that looks and runs actual carts like the cancelled Neptune.
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