Is this the Sega Saturn Mini!? Tatsujo Denki exhibits a technology demo

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Sega Saturn Mini Console Showcased at TGS2023?

Technology company 達成電器 (Tatsuju) showcased a mini console capable of running Sega Saturn discs at the TGS2023 event. The device, which gives the impression of a “Sega Saturn Mini,” was discreetly positioned at the farthest end of Tatsuju’s booth. Although it’s primarily a prototype for a technical demonstration, visitors could play “Darius II” for the Sega Saturn on this console.

Appearance

The design of the console prompts the question:

Is this the Sega Saturn Mini?

Technical Demonstration

The primary highlight of this technical demonstration is the adoption of FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) technology. Here’s a comparison between FPGA and emulators:

Emulators: Simulate hardware through software.

FPGA: Reproduces hardware on semiconductor chips.

Benefits of FPGA

According to Tatsuju:

FPGA boasts a higher fidelity compared to emulators.

It allows for the direct operation of original peripherals, cassettes, and discs associated with the Sega Saturn.
This presents a significant advantage over traditional emulation.

Other FPGA Exhibits

Another exhibit featuring FPGA technology is the “Retron FPGA.”

The aforementioned Sega Saturn console is merely an application demonstration.
“Retron FPGA” is the primary prototype targeted by the manufacturer.
At the exhibit, an American version of the Nintendo Entertainment System cartridge was inserted into an external terminal.

Players could enjoy “Duck Hunt” using a dedicated light gun, showcasing the high level of replication.

Future Plans

“Retron FPGA” is currently in the prototype phase.
Tatsuju plans to commercialize it between late 2024 and 2025.

Initial support will begin with 8-bit consoles like the Famicom.
However, the technology is also capable of replicating 32-bit consoles.
This leads to the application demonstration of the Sega Saturn, with potential extensions to consoles like the PlayStation.