Sega Saturn
The 2D powerhouse
Sega's Saturn excelled at 2D and sprite-based games but struggled with 3D, losing the 32-bit console war despite an impressive Japanese library.
Overview
The Sega Saturn launched with dual CPUs and powerful 2D capabilities designed for arcade ports. Unfortunately, 3D gaming was emerging as the standard, and Saturn’s architecture made 3D development challenging. The console found success in Japan with its 2D fighting game library but struggled against PlayStation in Western markets.
Fast facts
- Manufacturer: Sega.
- CPUs: dual Hitachi SH-2 at 28.6MHz.
- VDPs: two video display processors.
- RAM: 2MB main, 1.5MB video.
- Media: CD-ROM (2x speed).
- Strength: 2D sprite handling, arcade ports.
Architecture challenges
Why 3D was difficult:
- Dual CPU: complex to program effectively.
- Quad-based rendering: different from triangle standard.
- VDP complexity: two processors to coordinate.
- No hardware transparency: software workarounds needed.
Strengths in 2D
Where Saturn excelled:
- Fighting games: Virtua Fighter 2, Street Fighter series.
- 2D shooters: arcade-perfect ports.
- Sprite capabilities: massive sprite counts.
- Japanese library: strong RPG and niche support.