You could find all types of unusual tech on Indiegogo, however this fundraiser for an improved model of the digital reminiscence unit (VMU) for the Sega Dreamcast is among the zanier devices I’ve heard about this yr (through Notebookcheck). The corporate, Dreamware Enterprises, is within the technique of growing the VM2, which it calls a “next-gen VMU for the Dreamcast.” It’s a one-to-one recreation of a distinct segment accent made for a failed console that it plans to launch in black or white in the summertime of 2023.
A number of the enhancements appear nice, like a higher-resolution LCD display screen with backlighting, microSD card storage for offloading and injecting saves, a chargeable battery with USB-C charging, and mini-game help. It’ll ship with PC connectivity, with its personal GUI for Home windows. The firmware and software program of the VM2 are being developed by a single individual named Chris Daioglou. The Indiegogo web page states that manufacturing will happen in Greece.
Right here’s an exploded view of the VM2, displaying off the plastic shell, the printed circuit board, and the microSD card slot. Picture: Dreamware Enterprises
It prices a whopping $114 to position an order for one, and I’d simply do it. Why, precisely, do I actually need certainly one of these? As a result of I’m a type of individuals who nonetheless has a Dreamcast of their leisure system. I assume that I’ve an obsession with lifeless gaming devices.
Sufficient about me. I may see the VM2 being very fashionable among the many Dreamcast’s surprisingly energetic participant base. There are those that nonetheless play it for the enjoyment of a few of the best combating video games. After which there are the extra concerned followers who’ve discovered methods to host or be part of devoted servers for on-line video games which were formally out of fee for a number of years. To not point out, some indie builders are nonetheless making video games for the Dreamcast. So, yeah, there’s an viewers for this factor. And that viewers has spoken with its money. The marketing campaign has 18 days left, but it has sailed previous its aim of elevating $89,119.
I’d get one as a result of I additionally simply actually dig the unique idea. In case you missed the too-brief Dreamcast years earlier than it was squished by the PS2, the VMU stood out as a result of, not like different reminiscence playing cards, it had a display screen that might show contextual information on a per-game foundation by a window on the console’s controller. It may show your well being, your subsequent soccer play, or simply showcase the sport’s emblem recreated in pixelated style as you performed. And notably, you may yank it out of the controller and commerce saves by linking up with one other VMU. You could possibly additionally play solitaire on it with its D-pad and two face buttons, maintain Tamagotchi-style pets, or play different mini-games put in from a few of the Dreamcast’s titles. Look, it was a special time.
I’ve reached out to Sega for a touch upon this product.
