Hubbry Logo
List of Sega arcade system boardsList of Sega arcade system boardsMain
Open search
List of Sega arcade system boards
Community hub
List of Sega arcade system boards
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
List of Sega arcade system boards
List of Sega arcade system boards
List of Sega arcade system boards
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

A Sega Titan-Video (ST-V) arcade system board, based on Sega Saturn hardware and featuring interchangeable games

Sega is a video game developer, publisher, and hardware development company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with multiple offices around the world. The company's involvement in the arcade game industry began as a Japan-based distributor of coin-operated machines, including pinball games and jukeboxes.[1][2][3] Sega imported second-hand machines that required frequent maintenance. This necessitated the construction of replacement guns, flippers, and other parts for the machines. According to former Sega director Akira Nagai, this is what led to the company into developing their own games.[4]

Sega released Pong-Tron, its first video-based game, in 1973.[5] The company prospered from the arcade game boom of the late 1970s, with revenues climbing to over US$100 million by 1979.[6] Nagai has stated that Hang-On and Out Run helped to pull the arcade game market out of the 1983 downturn and created new genres of video games.[4]

In terms of arcades, Sega is the world's most prolific arcade game producer, having developed more than 500 games, 70 franchises, and 20 arcade system boards since 1981. It has been recognized by Guinness World Records for this achievement.[7] The following list comprises the various arcade system boards developed and used by Sega in their arcade games.

Arcade system boards

[edit]
Arcade board Notes Notable games and release years
Dual[8][9]
  • Capable of both black-and-white and color display[10]
  • Capable of packaging two games in the same arcade cabinet[10]
G80[11][12]
VCO Object
LaserActive
System 1
System 2
  • Released in July 1983.[33]
  • Not designed with console ports in mind, but some titles were ported to the Master System[34]
  • System 2's graphics unit served as the basis for the Master System's graphics chip[35]
Super Scaler
System E
  • Stripped-down version of Master System hardware[40]
System 16
System 18
"System 16" redirects here. For the tower computer, see Pronto System 16.
OutRun
  • Based on the System 16[55]
  • Second generation Super Scaler board; able to use sprite scaling to simulate 3D using Super Scaler technology[55][56]
  • Designed because Yu Suzuki was unable to make Out Run on existing technology at the time[57]
X Board
System 24
  • Displayed in 496 × 384 resolution, larger than the 320 × 224 to which Sega designers were accustomed at the time[62]
  • Limited character RAM[62]
  • Early games loaded onto a floppy disk and could be switched[62]
Y Board
  • Fourth board in the Super Scaler series, and successor to the X Board[48]
  • Added an extra CPU and memory, as well as upgraded video hardware compared to the X Board[48]
  • Capable of performing real-time sprite rotation[48]
Mega-Tech
Mega Play
  • Modified version of Mega Drive/Genesis hardware, designed to play multiple games[65]
  • Mega-Tech capable of playing up to eight games[65]
  • Mega Play capable of playing up to four games[65]
  • Distributed in the United States by Belam[66]
System C
  • Also known as System 14[67]
  • Based on Mega Drive/Genesis hardware[67]
System 32
  • Final board in the Super Scaler series[69]
  • Sega's first 32-bit system, and final major sprite-based board[69]
  • Uses NEC V60 processor[70]
  • Research and development began in 1988[71]
Model 1
  • Sega's first video game system designed for 3D polygon graphics, developed internally at Sega between 1990 and 1991.[79][80]
  • Uses the same NEC V60 processor as in the System 32[70]
  • Contains a custom graphics unit, the CG Board, that can display 180,000 polygons per second[70] and 6,500 polygons per frame[81]
  • Capable of displaying 60 frames per second[77]
  • Board had a high cost during development[82]
  • Original concept was initially conceived around 1988,[81] and Sega began staff hiring for new system in 1989[83]
Model 2
Sega Titan‑Video (ST‑V)
"ST-V" redirects here. For other uses, see STV.
Model 3
  • Developed in collaboration with Lockheed Martin[104]
  • First unveiled at the 1996 AOU (Amusement Machine Operators' Union) show[105]
  • Utilizes a PowerPC processor for its CPU[106]
  • Upon release, was the most powerful arcade system board in existence[107]
  • Released in multiple "steps" with improving specifications[108]
  • Model 2 and 3 sold more than 200,000 arcade systems combined by 2000.[109]
NAOMI
Hikaru
NAOMI 2
Triforce
  • Co-developed by Namco, Sega, and Nintendo[145]
  • Based on GameCube architecture.[145] Supported GameCube memory cards.[146]
  • The idea for Triforce came from Namco and Sega. They saw potential in the GameCube architecture for a cost-effective and port-friendly arcade machine. Nintendo agreed to cooperate in building the Triforce board, but had little interest in developing arcade games of their own.[147]
Chihiro
SystemSP
Lindbergh
Europa-R
  • Runs at 60 frames per second and 720p video resolution[172]
RingEdge
RingWide
RingEdge 2
Nu
Nu 1.1
Nu 2

Nu and Nu 1.1:

Nu 2:

ALLS

Additional arcade hardware

[edit]

Sega has developed and released additional arcade games that use technology other than their dedicated arcade system boards. The first arcade game manufactured by Sega was Periscope, an electromechanical game. This was followed by Missile in 1969.[190] Subsequent video-based games such as Pong-Tron (1973), Fonz (1976), and Monaco GP (1979) used discrete logic boards without a CPU microprocessor.[191] Frogger (1981) used a system powered by two Z80 CPU microprocessors.[192] Some titles, such as Zaxxon (1982) were developed externally from Sega, a practice that was not uncommon at the time.[193]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

List of Sega arcade system boards

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Sega arcade system boards refer to the specialized hardware platforms developed by for powering its arcade video games, evolving from basic discrete logic and microprocessor-based designs in the late to advanced 64-bit systems supporting 3D graphics and networked play by the early . These boards enabled to innovate in arcade gaming, transitioning from electromechanical machines to video-based systems that simplified production through printed circuit boards (PCBs), allowing easier software updates and reduced maintenance compared to earlier mechanical setups. 's early video arcade efforts began with imports and simple clones like Pong-Tron in the , but the company quickly advanced with original hardware like the VIC Dual board in 1977, which used the microprocessor for titles such as . The 1980s marked a golden era for Sega's arcade hardware, with the introduction of the System 1 (1983) and System 2 (1985) boards featuring processors, supporting popular games like and . This progressed to the influential System 16 platform (1985), a 16-bit system that became one of Sega's most prolific, running over 50 titles including , Shinobi, and with enhanced sprite capabilities and sound via a chip. Variants like System 16A and 16B offered improvements in security and performance, solidifying Sega's position against competitors like and . In the early 1990s, Sega shifted toward 3D graphics with the System 32 (1991), a 32-bit board using CPUs that powered games like and introduced more complex polygons. The Model series followed, debuting with Model 1 (1992) for Starblade and , evolving to Model 2 (1993), which featured processors and for landmark titles such as and , achieving massive commercial success with over 130,000 cabinets sold worldwide by 1996. Later platforms like the ST-V (1994), based on Saturn console hardware, and the Naomi (1998), derived from technology, facilitated cost-effective ports and hits including and , extending 's arcade dominance into the networked era. Sega continued with advanced 3D systems like Model 3 (1996), transitioning to console-derived and PC-based platforms such as Chihiro (2002) and Lindbergh (2005) in the 2000s, before adopting commercial PC hardware for modern arcade titles as of 2025.

Early Discrete and Z80-based Systems

Blockade and VIC Dual Boards

Sega's earliest ventures into video arcade hardware emerged in the mid-1970s, coinciding with the post-Pong boom in digital gaming and representing a pivotal shift from the company's prior electromechanical systems like and . The and VIC Dual boards, developed through Sega's association with Industries, introduced microprocessor-based architectures to Sega's arcade lineup, enabling more complex gameplay than discrete logic circuits alone could support. These systems laid foundational groundwork for Sega's expansion in the arcade market, blending custom circuitry with emerging CPU technology to produce affordable, cabinet-shared hardware. The hardware, originally created by Industries in 1976 for the titular game —a two-player navigation title where players maneuver blocks to trap opponents—utilized an running at 2 MHz as its core processing unit. This 8-bit CPU handled game logic, supported by 1.25 KB of RAM (including 256 bytes for main operations and 1 KB for video buffering) and custom TTL-based chips for graphics generation and sound. The system featured a raster display capable of rendering simple vector-like lines for the block trails, emphasizing efficient, low-cost design suitable for upright cabinets weighing around 290 pounds. Additional titles like Comotion and Hustle ran on variants of this board, showcasing its versatility for early puzzle and action games before Sega's full acquisition of in 1978 integrated it into their portfolio. Introduced in 1977, the VIC Dual board marked Sega's adoption of the Zilog Z80 microprocessor, operating at approximately 3-4 MHz, in a dual-processor configuration designed for shared cabinets that housed two independent games to maximize operator value. Each game utilized a dedicated Z80 CPU paired with custom discrete logic for sound generation—unique per title—and a monochrome raster display at 256 x 224 resolution, supporting pong-style mechanics with enhanced collision detection and scoring. Key components included TTL chips for video output and input handling via joysticks or trackballs, with the "dual" aspect allowing linked play or separate experiences in a single enclosure, as seen in crates containing multiple interchangeable boards. This setup facilitated Sega's entry into diverse genres beyond basic block games, bridging the gap to more standardized Z80-based systems in the late 1970s. Notable games on the VIC Dual included Head-On (1979), a pioneering maze-racing title where players dodged oncoming cars, and (1980), a shooting gallery with light-gun elements, both exemplifying the board's capability for fast-paced, score-driven action in the competitive post-Pong landscape. These boards collectively represented Sega's strategic evolution from electromechanical periscopes and missile simulators to fully arcades, prioritizing modular hardware for rapid game iteration and .

Z80 and G80 Vector Boards

Sega's Z80 arcade system board, released around 1980, represented an important step in the company's arcade hardware evolution, transitioning to a microprocessor-driven platform. Powered by a CPU operating at 4 MHz, the board featured 2 KB of RAM and supported monochrome displays, enabling ROM-based game storage that allowed for more programmable and replayable experiences compared to earlier discrete logic systems. This hardware facilitated the development of titles like Space Firebird, a fixed shooter with multi-stage alien invasions, and , a licensed vertical shooter emphasizing power-ups and enemy formations. The G80 board, introduced in 1981, extended this Z80 architecture to , marking 's entry into high-contrast, line-drawn visuals suited for space-themed arcade games. Equipped with a Z80A CPU clocked at 3.072 MHz, support for vector monitors, and 4 KB of ROM capacity, the G80 emphasized scalable graphics generated by direct deflection of the CRT beam, providing smooth and detailed depictions without pixelation. Notable games on the vector variant included , a space combat simulator with multi-directional movement, and Space Fury, a defensive shooter against asteroid fields and enemies. The board's design prioritized ROM programmability for complex trajectories and enemy behaviors in zero-gravity environments. Variants such as the G80 Mark II refined the original architecture with improved vector resolution and sound capabilities, using discrete DACs for basic tone generation, while maintaining compatibility with the core Z80 ecosystem. These boards collectively introduced ROM-based development workflows and vector technology to Sega's portfolio, focusing on immersive space simulations that influenced later raster systems like System 1 in the early 1980s.

16-bit System Era

System 16 Family

The System 16, launched in 1985, marked 's transition to 16-bit arcade hardware, building on the success of earlier pseudo-3D titles like and . This platform featured a main CPU clocked at 10 MHz for game logic, paired with a sound CPU at 4 MHz and a FM synthesis chip for audio, enabling richer soundscapes compared to prior 8-bit systems. Video output supported a resolution of 320x224 pixels in vertical orientation, with a 4096-color palette allowing up to 64 colors on screen simultaneously, facilitated by dedicated ASIC chips for sprite and tilemap rendering. The System 16 family evolved through several variants to address production costs, performance needs, and piracy concerns. The System 16A, introduced in 1986, refined the base design with minor board revisions for titles like , maintaining the core 68000 at 10 MHz but optimizing ROM integration for faster game swaps. The System 16B, released in 1987, upgraded the sound CPU to 5 MHz and incorporated the uPD7759 ADPCM chip for enhanced speech and effects, powering games such as Shinobi and . Later variants of the System 16B, starting around 1988, integrated encryption via the FD1094 custom 68000 processor to deter bootlegs, as seen in , while retaining the YM2151 for audio continuity. Hardware advancements in the family included custom like the 315-5158 for efficient sprite handling—supporting up to 128 sprites with scaling and —and modular ROM boards that allowed operators to update games without full hardware replacement, extending the platform's lifespan until around 1990. This design influenced genres like shoot 'em ups, with Fantasy Zone's colorful multidirectional scrolling, and beat 'em ups, exemplified by Golden Axe's cooperative side-scrolling combat on the 16B and later boards. The System 16's flexible architecture laid groundwork for enhanced in later platforms like System 18.

System 18 and System 24 Boards

The Sega System 18, introduced in 1989 as an evolution of the System 16 architecture, featured a Motorola 68000 main CPU clocked at 10 MHz, paired with a Zilog Z80 sound CPU running at 8 MHz. Its audio subsystem included dual Yamaha YM3438 FM synthesis chips at 8 MHz each and a Ricoh RF5C68 PCM decoder operating at 10 MHz, relabeled as a Sega custom 315-series IC for 8-channel sample playback. Video capabilities supported a 320x224 resolution with a 4096-color palette, enabling up to 128 on-screen sprites, four tilemap layers, one text layer, hardware sprite zooming, and translucent shadow effects, which facilitated pseudo-3D visuals through sprite scaling and rotation. To combat piracy, System 18 employed encrypted program ROMs decrypted via specialized Hitachi FD1094 or similar masked 68000 CPUs, a refinement of System 16's security that included a "suicide battery" mechanism to disable boards upon tampering or battery failure. This board's JAMMA-compliant design improved scalability over System 16, though System 16 and 18 use different pinouts (Sega vs. JAMMA), limiting direct compatibility and requiring modifications for conversions between them. Notable System 18 titles leveraged these enhancements for dynamic action gameplay, such as Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi (1989), which used sprite zooming for fluid ninja combat illusions, and Michael Jackson's Moonwalker (1990), featuring dance sequences with layered backgrounds and shadow effects. Alien Storm (1990) demonstrated the system's sprite handling in side-scrolling shoot-'em-ups, while Laser Ghost (1990) employed pseudo-3D road projection for horror-themed vehicular action. These games highlighted System 18's focus on enhanced 2D visuals approaching 3D-like depth without full polygonal rendering, bridging arcade aesthetics toward the 32-bit System 32 era. In parallel, the Sega System 24, debuted in 1988, utilized dual CPUs at 10 MHz—one for and I/O, the other for —to manage its tilemap-heavy rendering. Sound was handled directly by the main CPUs driving a FM chip at 4 MHz alongside a DAC for sampled audio, eschewing a dedicated Z80 for streamlined processing. Optimized for medium-resolution displays (496×384), it supported advanced multi-layer tilemaps with 32,768 colors (15-bit RGB) and shadow/highlight support, ideal for top-down perspectives in racing and strategy games. Storage flexibility was a key innovation, using 3.5-inch floppy disks for program loading (with optional ROM or boards for later titles), enabling easier updates and higher effective data capacity compared to fixed-ROM predecessors like System 16. While sharing encryption elements with System 16 via per-game CPU modules, System 24 emphasized scalability through modular storage, reducing hardware costs for operators and supporting larger asset sets without proportional board complexity. System 24 excelled in overhead-view simulations, as seen in (1988), a multi-player drag racer utilizing precise tile-based tracks and vehicle scaling, and Rough Racer (1990), which expanded on isometric driving with dynamic weather and via layered maps. Other representatives included (1988), a with intricate level geometry, and Crack Down (1989), employing tilemaps for top-down infiltration missions. Quiz Syukudai: wo Wasuremashita (1990) showcased the system's versatility in non-action genres through animated quiz interfaces. These boards collectively advanced Sega's 16-bit arcade lineup by prioritizing visual depth and anti-piracy measures, setting foundational techniques for the transition to 32-bit processing in System 32.
FeatureSystem 18System 24
Main CPU68000 @ 10 MHzDual 68000 @ 10 MHz
Sound CPUZ80 @ 8 MHzNone (main CPU-driven)
Video Layers4 tiles + 1 text + sprites (zooming)Multi-layer tiles (medium res, scrolling)
StorageROM boardFloppy/ROM/CD-ROM
Key SecurityEncrypted FD1094 CPU, suicide batteryPer-game CPU encryption
Example GamesShadow Dancer, MoonwalkerHot Rod, Rough Racer

32-bit and Model Series

System 32

The System 32 is an arcade system board developed by , debuting in 1991 as the company's first 32-bit platform and succeeding the 16-bit System 16 and System 24 architectures. It emphasized advanced 2D graphics through Super Scaler technology, enabling sprite rotation, scaling, and for pseudo-3D effects in games, while supporting low-to-medium resolution displays typical of early arcades. This board powered a range of titles that pushed the boundaries of sprite-based visuals, bridging 's earlier hardware eras to more computationally intensive designs. At its core, the System 32 employs a single 32-bit RISC CPU clocked at 16.10795 MHz for main processing, paired with a at 8.053975 MHz for sound duties. Graphics processing relies on custom chips, including the 315-5386A tilemap generator, 315-5387 sprite control, and 315-5388 video mixer/color blender, with a DSP16A at 16.10795 MHz for effects like scaling, and support for 320×224 resolution with a palette of 16,384 colors (16 colors per sprite). Audio is handled by dual Yamaha YM3438 FM synthesis chips at 8.053975 MHz and a RF5C68 8-channel PCM sampler at 12.5 MHz, delivering stereo output with ADPCM capabilities. Memory includes approximately 2 MB of main RAM, 4 MB of video RAM, and 4 MB of sound RAM, allowing for sprites up to 1024×1024 pixels with 16-512 colors each. Key games on the System 32 highlighted its strengths in dynamic 2D environments, such as (1991), a racing title that used scaled sprites to simulate 3D movement and introduced as a passenger. Other representatives include Golden Axe: The Revenge of Death Adder (1992), a side-scrolling with enhanced animations and boss battles, and : The Video Game (1991), featuring multilevel platforming with swinging mechanics. These examples demonstrated the board's capacity for 1,024 on-screen sprites and complex layering, outperforming contemporary 16-bit systems in visual density and fluidity. Introduced in 1992, the System Multi 32 variant upgraded the CPU to a V70 at 20 MHz and added a MultiPCM chip for expanded audio channels, supporting dual-monitor configurations for wider fields. The Twin System 32 configuration linked two boards via a communication port, enabling synchronized multiplayer in titles like Arabian Fight (1992). Overall, the System 32 facilitated Sega's shift toward 32-bit processing in the early 1990s, emphasizing sprite innovation before the industry's pivot to true polygonal 3D in mid-decade hardware.

Model 1 and Model 2

The Model series marked a pivotal advancement in arcade hardware during the early 1990s, with the Model 1 and Model 2 emphasizing 3D polygon-based rendering tailored for immersive simulations, particularly in and genres. Introduced in , the Model 1 represented 's inaugural platform dedicated to real-time 3D graphics, utilizing a modular board architecture that integrated custom processors for geometry transformation and lighting to enable model-based . This system supported textured polygons and basic shading effects, achieving approximately 180,000 polygons per second in practical applications, which allowed for the creation of scalable 3D environments in dedicated cabinets with hydraulic motion platforms for enhanced realism in simulations. The Model 1's core hardware featured a 32-bit RISC CPU running at 16 MHz, delivering about 2.5 MIPS of processing power, paired with a MB86233 TGP (Texture and Geometry Processor) FPU operating at the same clock speed for 16 MFLOPS of floating-point computations dedicated to 3D transformations. Sound was handled by a 68000 CPU at 12 MHz, dual Sega MultiPCM chips (56 channels total), and a Yamaha YM3834, while video output supported resolutions up to 496×384 pixels with 65,536 colors, facilitating smooth 60 Hz frame rates in polygon-heavy scenes. Notable titles on the Model 1 included Virtua Racing (1992), which pioneered arcade 3D racing with scalable models of cars and tracks, and Virtua Fighter (1993), an early 3D fighting game that demonstrated the system's capacity for in simulated arenas; these games were often housed in deluxe sit-down cabinets with force-feedback to simulate real-world driving dynamics. Succeeding the Model 1 in 1993, the Model 2 built upon its foundation by incorporating enhanced 3D acceleration, doubling the polygon throughput to around 300,000 textured polygons per second through optimized parallel processing. This iteration focused on and environmental , enabling more detailed surfaces on vehicles and surroundings, which was crucial for realistic driving experiences in multi-player setups. The base Model 2 employed an i960-KB 32-bit RISC CPU at 25 MHz for main processing, supported by a single MB86234 TGP for graphics and rendering up to 1.2 million pixels per frame at 60 Hz, with audio enhanced via a 68000 CPU at 10 MHz driving dual 28-channel PCM chips. Variants of the Model 2 evolved to address performance demands in complex simulations: the Model 2B (1994) added dual SHARC DSPs as co-processors for advanced effects processing, while the Model 2C (1995) incorporated four MB86235 TGPs to boost geometry handling for higher-fidelity scenes. These boards were designed for integration with specialized cabinets, such as twin or quad-player racing pods with synchronized motion and shared displays, emphasizing multiplayer racing realism. Key games included Daytona USA (1994), a landmark racing simulator with texture-mapped tracks and up to eight-player linkage for networked play, and Virtua Fighter 2 (1994), which expanded on 3D fighter mechanics with smoother animations and crowd simulations; Sega Rally Championship (1995) further showcased the system's gravel and tarmac surface modeling for authentic off-road driving physics. The Model 2's emphasis on texture-mapped polygons and cabinet synergy solidified its role in elevating arcade simulations, paving the way for subsequent hardware advancements.

Advanced 3D and NAOMI Era

Model 3

The Sega Model 3 is a custom arcade board developed by Sega and released in 1996, representing the company's most advanced 3D hardware platform during the late 1990s arcade era. It utilized dual Lockheed Martin Real3D Pro-1000 graphics processing units (GPUs), derived from visualization technology, to deliver high-fidelity 3D graphics with features including , , fog effects, , and translucency support. This board marked Sega's pinnacle in proprietary 3D arcade engineering before the industry shifted toward PC-based , enabling complex polygonal environments and character animations that pushed arcade visuals toward console-like immersion. The core architecture featured an IBM-Motorola PowerPC 603e RISC CPU, with clock speeds varying by variant: 66 MHz for the initial Step 1.0 release, upgraded to 100 MHz in the Step 1.5 revision later that year, and further to 166 MHz in the Step 2.0 and 2.1 versions introduced in 1997 and 1998, respectively. These upgrades also enhanced and GPU performance, with the Step 2.0 providing up to 180 million pixels per second compared to 100 million in Step 1.0. Graphics capabilities included support for 640x480 resolution, multi-texturing, and a proprietary texture compression scheme similar to early S3TC methods, allowing efficient handling of detailed environments without excessive ROM sizes. Performance metrics highlighted its 3D prowess, achieving approximately 2 million textured polygons per second in optimal conditions, with titles like rendering up to 1.9 million polygons per second in certain scenes to maintain 60 FPS . Notable games on the Model 3 showcased its strengths in fighting, racing, and simulation genres, including (1996), which introduced revolutionary 3D arena-based combat with dynamic crowd interactions, and (1998), featuring enhanced rally physics and multi-surface track deformation. Other key titles like (1998) demonstrated the board's ability to handle linked-cabinet multiplayer racing with improved and particle effects, while Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram (1998) leveraged the hardware for fast-paced 3D mecha battles. The platform's emphasis on high-end influenced subsequent hardware, such as the NAOMI board, by providing a foundation for porting several Model 3 titles to more cost-effective formats.

NAOMI and Derivatives

The Sega NAOMI, introduced in 1998, represented a shift toward console-derived arcade hardware to reduce development costs while delivering high-performance 3D graphics for arcade environments. It utilized a Hitachi SH-4 32-bit RISC CPU clocked at 200 MHz, providing 360 MIPS and 1.4 GFLOPS of processing power through its integrated 128-bit SIMD vector unit optimized for graphics tasks. The graphics subsystem featured a NEC/VideoLogic PowerVR2 (PVR2DC) GPU, supporting tile-based deferred rendering for efficient texture and polygon handling, with resolutions up to 640x480 interlaced or 640x240 progressive. Memory configuration included 32 MB of main SDRAM for general use, 16 MB of VRAM for graphics buffering, and 8 MB of sound RAM integrated into the Yamaha AICA sound chip, which handled 64-channel ADPCM audio at up to 48 kHz. Storage options encompassed GD-ROM drives for high-capacity game data (up to 1.2 GB per disc) or cartridge-based ROM boards with capacities reaching 168 MB, enabling quick loading and easy game swapping in arcades. Notable titles on the NAOMI platform included Soul Calibur, which showcased fluid weapon-based combat with detailed character models, and Crazy Taxi, a high-speed driving game emphasizing chaotic urban navigation. A key aspect of the NAOMI's design was its modularity, allowing operators to upgrade via swappable daughterboards such as modules for additional RAM (expandable from 256 MB to 1 GB in networked configurations) or network interfaces for remote game updates and diagnostics. This flexibility extended to multi-board setups in specialized cabinets like the NAOMI Universal Cabinet, where up to 16 boards could operate in parallel to boost processing power, geometry calculations, or support displays for immersive experiences. The system's JAMMA-compatible I/O ensured broad compatibility with existing arcade cabinets, facilitating widespread adoption. Derivatives of the NAOMI architecture built on this foundation to address evolving arcade demands. The NAOMI 2, launched in 2000 as a high-end evolution, retained the core SH-4 CPU at 200 MHz but incorporated dual PowerVR2 GPUs and an additional SH-4-derived geometry processor, enabling up to 10 million polygons per second and enhanced transform-and-lighting capabilities for more complex scenes. It supported similar memory and storage options as the original but with improved bandwidth for VRAM and sound processing, powering titles like , which featured about 12,000 polygons per character and expansive arenas with real-time crowd animations. The platform maintained with NAOMI games via adapter boards while introducing satellite terminal variants for linked multiplayer setups. In 2003, —soon to merge with —introduced the as a collaborative, cost-optimized derivative targeting smaller operators and developers. Drawing directly from NAOMI and specifications, it employed a single SH-4 CPU at 200 MHz, PowerVR2 graphics, and a 16 MB main RAM, 16 MB VRAM, 8 MB sound RAM configuration, but prioritized cartridge-based games for simpler maintenance and lower upfront costs. The system eschewed GD-ROMs in favor of secure, interchangeable carts to prevent , with via optional network daughterboards for title management. Prominent releases included and , which leveraged the hardware's sprite-handling strengths for fast-paced 2D/3D hybrid fighters with large rosters and dynamic stages. This lineage continued in later arcade systems.

PC-based and Modern Systems

Chihiro, Triforce, and Hikaru

The Chihiro, , and Hikaru represent Sega's transition in the late 1990s and early toward hybrid arcade hardware that leveraged home console architectures for cost efficiency and rapid development, marking a shift from proprietary systems like NAOMI to collaborative, console-derived platforms. These boards enabled high-fidelity 3D graphics and storage-based game loading, facilitating ports from console titles while supporting arcade-specific features such as networking and upgradable components. Released between 1999 and 2002, they powered a range of influential titles in , , and fighting genres, bridging the gap to fully PC-based systems like Lindbergh. The Hikaru, introduced in 1999, served as an enhanced bridge between the NAOMI series and more advanced 3D hardware, incorporating upgraded components for superior graphical effects without fully departing from Dreamcast-era architecture. It featured dual SH-4 RISC CPUs clocked at 200 MHz each, providing 720 MIPS of fixed-point performance and 2.8 GFLOPS of floating-point capability for complex computations. The system's custom 3D graphics engine supported advanced rendering techniques, including for realistic lighting and surface modeling, enabling up to 2 million s per second— a significant leap for arcade visuals at the time. Additional enhancements included dual Yamaha AICA sound processors for immersive audio, a for network operations, and up to 354 MB of ROM storage, with a 256-bit internal bus delivering 35.111 GB/s bandwidth. Developed by 's Hard Ware R&D Team 3 starting in 1998, the Hikaru was positioned for high-end 3D titles but was ultimately succeeded by the more cost-effective NAOMI 2 due to its expensive custom GPU. Notable games included Cyber Troopers Virtual-On 4 (2001), which showcased the board's throughput and in detailed mech models and dynamic arenas. The Sega Chihiro, launched in 2002 through a partnership with Microsoft, adapted Xbox console hardware for arcade use, emphasizing reliability and ease of game swapping via optical media. At its core was an Intel Pentium III processor running at 733 MHz with a 133 MHz front-side bus, paired with the NVIDIA MCPX2 chipset for system management. Graphics were handled by the NVIDIA NV2A GPU (a variant of the GeForce 3) operating at 200 MHz, supporting hardware transform and lighting (T&L) for efficient 3D rendering, while 128 MB of upgradable DDR SDRAM at 200 MHz provided ample memory for textures and effects—double the retail Xbox's allocation. Storage combined a hard disk drive for system files with a GD-ROM drive for game discs, allowing operators to switch titles by inserting new media and security chips, which streamlined maintenance in arcades. This configuration delivered console-quality visuals to arcade cabinets, powering games like Virtua Cop 3 (2003), a light-gun shooter with precise targeting and explosive environments, and OutRun 2 (2003), a racing title featuring seamless branching paths and high-speed drifts. The Chihiro's design prioritized longevity through upgradable RAM and modular components, influencing Sega's later adoption of PC architectures. The , also debuting in 2002, emerged from a rare collaboration between , , and (with later involvement from on select titles), utilizing hardware to enable cross-platform development and shared intellectual properties. The was a stock Japanese DOL-001 motherboard, featuring the PowerPC CPU at 485 MHz for robust processing of physics and AI. Graphics relied on the ATI Flipper GPU, capable of 24-bit , 24-bit , and , enhanced for arcade use with double the standard (48 MB main memory) for faster access times around 10 ns. A dedicated "Media Board" interfaced with or NAND flash storage, supporting larger game assets and easier updates, while provisions for add-ons like RAM modules allowed customization. This setup fostered titles blending franchises, such as AX (2003), a high-speed futuristic racer, and (2005), which integrated characters into -style racing with magnetic card save systems. The 's collaborative nature reduced development costs and expanded market reach, though its roots limited it to 2005 before evolution into variants like Triforce II.

Lindbergh and Ring Series

The Lindbergh and Ring series represent Sega's shift toward fully PC-based arcade hardware in the mid-2000s, leveraging processors and commercial cards to enable high-fidelity 3D , online connectivity via ALL., and easier software updates compared to prior custom architectures. Introduced amid declining arcade markets, these systems prioritized cost efficiency and developer accessibility by running embedded Windows variants, supporting JAMMA extensions through JVS I/O, and facilitating networked features like e-amusement for player data persistence. This era marked Sega's deeper integration with PC ecosystems, allowing ports of console titles and rapid iteration on multiplayer experiences. The Sega Lindbergh, released in 2005, was the inaugural board in this lineage, powered by an Pentium 4 3.0 GHz HT processor with an 800 MHz FSB and 1 MB L2 cache. It featured an GeForce 6 series GPU (such as the GeForce 6800) with 256 MB GDDR3 memory, enabling dual-monitor output at up to resolution and support for advanced effects like shaders. Running on Embedded, the system included 512 MB system RAM and JVS/DVI interfaces for cabinet integration, with variants like the high-end "Yellow" model for demanding titles and lower-spec "Red" and "Blue" versions for lighter games. Notable releases included Virtua Fighter 5 (2005), which showcased fluid 3D combat animations; The House of the Dead 4 (2005), a with mounted guns and dynamic lighting; and Ghost Squad (2005), emphasizing squad-based tactics. Sega Rally 2006 further highlighted its rally racing capabilities with realistic physics and multiplayer linking. Building on Lindbergh's foundation, the Ring series debuted in 2009 with the higher-end RingEdge and its cost-reduced counterpart, RingWide, both utilizing Windows Embedded Standard 2009 for streamlined development. The RingEdge employed an E2160 CPU at 1.8 GHz, paired with 1 GB DDR2-6400 RAM and an 8800 GS GPU featuring 384 MB GDDR3 and Shader Model 4.0 support for enhanced and lighting. It included a 32 GB SSD for storage and for ALL.Net connectivity, powering games like (2009), a team-based mech shooter with online progression; and Virtua Fighter 5 R (2010), an updated fighting title with refined . In contrast, the 2010 RingWide targeted budget cabinets with an 440 CPU at 2.0 GHz, 1 GB DDR2-5300 RAM, and an ATI HD 2xxx GPU with 128 MB GDDR3, supporting simpler 2D/3D hybrids via a single DVI output and 8 GB SSD. This board excelled in medal games and shooters, exemplified by Let's Go Jungle (2010), a light-gun adventure with larger cabinet compatibility for immersive setups. The RingEdge 2, launched in 2013, refined the series for greater affordability and networking depth, using an i3-540 CPU at 3.06 GHz on an Q57 , 2 GB DDR3 RAM, and an GeForce GT 545 GPU with 1 GB GDDR5 for improved 11 features like . Storage comprised a 32 GB GBDISK RS3 SSD, with integrated sound via HD Audio and enhanced e-amusement support for cloud saves and tournaments over or Ethernet. Designed to lower operational costs through modular components and , it hosted titles such as Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate Arcade (2013), featuring cross-platform balance; and Guilty Gear Xrd -SIGN- (2014), a fighter with anime-style cel-shading. This board's emphasis on online ecosystems paved the way for Sega's later ALLS platform in the late .

Later Developments (2013–2025)

Following the Ring series, Sega continued evolving PC-based arcade hardware with the Nu platform, introduced in 2013 for specialized titles like rhythm games. The Nu featured an Intel Core i3-3220 processor, supporting DVI output and SSD storage for efficient performance in games such as : Project DIVA Arcade. An upgraded Nu 2 variant launched in 2016 with an Intel Core i5-6500 CPU, enhancing capabilities for more demanding networked experiences. By 2017, Sega shifted to the ALLS (ALL.Net Live System) architecture, a modular PC-based system using Intel processors (e.g., Core i5/i7 series as of ) with SSDs and Gigabit Ethernet, powering ongoing arcade titles including updates to and Initial D Arcade Stage through 2025, emphasizing cloud integration and for sustained viability in a declining market.

Additional Arcade Hardware

Multi-game and Conversion Boards

Sega's approach to multi-game and conversion boards emphasized flexibility for arcade operators, allowing quick updates to games without replacing entire cabinets. Early efforts included the Convert-a-Game system, launched in 1981 on the G80 hardware platform, which facilitated conversions in approximately 15 minutes by swapping ROMs and modular components. This system supported titles such as Space Odyssey, Space Fury, Eliminator, and Star Trek: Strategic Operations Simulator, marking Sega's innovation in reducing downtime and costs for location-based entertainment. In the late 1980s, expanded this concept with multi-game systems derived from home console technology. The Mega-Tech, introduced in , was an featuring up to eight Mega Drive games selectable via a menu, using swappable cartridges for easy maintenance and updates. As the Western version of the Japanese Mega 6, it included popular titles like and Columns, with an Australian variant known as Ausy adapting the hardware for regional distribution. This system bridged home and arcade gaming, offering variety in a single unit to attract players. Building on the System 16 family, Sega's System C board from 1987 supported conversions through swappable ROMs, enabling operators to update games like without full hardware overhauls. Related to System 16's , it used a single JAMMA-compliant board with Mega Drive-inspired architecture for efficient retrofits. For Super Scaler titles, conversion kits allowed upgrades from earlier games like to advanced pseudo-3D experiences such as , involving board swaps to enhance sprite scaling capabilities while reusing cabinet infrastructure. The Y-board, a 1988 Super Scaler variant, further supported such conversions for games including , optimizing hardware reuse across the series.

Specialized and Collaborative Boards

The Sega Europa-R, developed specifically by Sega Amusements Europe, represents a regional variant of the company's PC-based arcade hardware tailored for the European market. Released in 2006, it features an 945 dual-core processor at 3.4 GHz, 8 GB of RAM, and an GeForce 8800 GPU, supporting HDTV output at resolution and 60 frames per second, along with DVD drives and Sega's ALL.NET online connectivity. This board was optimized for simulations and collaborative titles, powering games such as Sega Rally 3 (2008) and Race Driver: GRID (2010, developed with ). Unlike standard Sega platforms, its design emphasized compatibility with European arcade operators, including enhanced input options for specialized cabinets, though it saw limited adoption beyond genres. The Nu board, introduced in 2013 as a successor to the Ring series, marked Sega's continued shift toward more powerful PC-based arcade systems for music and multiplayer experiences. Equipped with an i3-3220 processor and 4 GB of DDR3 RAM, along with an GTX 650 Ti GPU, it supported high-resolution displays and complex rhythm mechanics. Notable titles include : Project DIVA Arcade Future Tone (2013), which debuted on the platform and utilized its enhanced audio processing for synchronized performances. While primarily a Sega-developed board, it facilitated integrations with third-party peripherals, enabling niche applications in interactive entertainment without confirmed co-development partnerships. Sega's ALLS (Amusement Linkage Live System), launched in 2018, introduced an Intel-based architecture optimized for networked live events and multimedia arcade experiences, diverging from traditional single-cabinet designs. Built on Gigabyte motherboards with Core i5 or i7 processors, 16-32 GB DDR4 RAM, NVIDIA GTX 1070 or higher GPUs, and SSD storage for faster load times, it emphasized real-time synchronization across multiple units via ALL.NET. Key games include The House of the Dead: Scarlet Dawn (2018), a light-gun shooter leveraging its processing for dynamic multiplayer, and rhythm titles like CHUNITHM NEW!! (2021). The 2021 ALLS UX variant refined this with SSD-based storage and a Core i5-6500 CPU, supporting 16 GB DDR4 RAM to handle asset-intensive updates for ongoing series such as maimai DX (2019). Designed for event-driven niches like card battles—exemplified by Chrono Regalia (2019)—ALLS prioritized scalability for live audiences over raw graphical power. As of November 2025, no verified Sega arcade boards integrate AI hardware directly, though the company explores generative AI for broader game development tools.

References

  1. https://www.system16.com/museum.php?id=1
  2. https://shmuplations.com/akiranagai/
  3. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=704
  4. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=703
  5. https://bitvint.com/pages/sega-system-16-32
  6. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=701
  7. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=709
  8. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=712
  9. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=713
  10. https://segaretro.org/Sega_Model_2
  11. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=711
  12. https://segaretro.org/Sega_Electronics
  13. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=684
  14. https://segaretro.org/Blockade_hardware
  15. http://adb.arcadeitalia.net/dettaglio_mame.php?game_name=blockade
  16. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=685
  17. https://segaretro.org/VIC_Dual
  18. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=688
  19. https://segaretro.org/Space_Firebird
  20. https://segaretro.org/Moon_Cresta
  21. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=686
  22. https://segaretro.org/Sega_G80
  23. https://segaretro.org/Space_Odyssey
  24. https://segaretro.org/Space_Fury
  25. https://forums.arcade-museum.com/threads/identifying-sega-g80-card-cage-pcbs.364168/
  26. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=700
  27. http://techdocs.exodusemulator.com/Arcade/SegaSystem16/index.html
  28. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=702
  29. https://shootthecore.tech/repair/repair-log-sega-system-18-arcade-pcb/
  30. https://forums.arcade-museum.com/threads/sega-system-16-system-18-intercompatibility.388976/
  31. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=708
  32. https://segaretro.org/Sega_System_24
  33. https://www.arcade-projects.com/threads/sega-system-24-multi-kit-sale-support.19868/
  34. https://segaretro.org/Sega_System_32
  35. https://www.arcade-history.com/?n=rad-mobile-deluxe-model&page=detail&id=2153
  36. https://www.arcade-history.com/?n=golden-axe-the-revenge-of-death-adder&page=detail&id=980
  37. https://www.arcade-history.com/?n=spider-man-the-video-game&page=detail&id=2485
  38. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=710
  39. https://www.arcade-history.com/?n=arabian-fight&page=detail&id=52
  40. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=715
  41. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=716
  42. https://segaretro.org/Sega_Model_3
  43. https://emulation.gametechwiki.com/index.php/Sega_Model_3
  44. https://segaretro.org/Virtua_Fighter_3
  45. https://segaretro.org/Sega_NAOMI
  46. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=800
  47. https://www.arcade-museum.com/Videogame/sega-naomi-system-cabinet
  48. https://treasure.fandom.com/wiki/Sega_NAOMI
  49. https://www.ebay.com/itm/173617140975
  50. https://arcadeheroes.com/2014/09/09/remembering-segas-naomi-based-arcade-hardware/
  51. https://www.arcade-projects.com/threads/naomi-net-dimm-256-mb-to-512-mb-upgrade.20952/
  52. https://www.sega-naomi.eu/hardware/
  53. https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/09/21/jamma-2000-naomi-2-revealed
  54. https://segaretro.org/Virtua_Fighter_4
  55. https://segaretro.org/Sega_NAOMI_2
  56. https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/02/20/snk-to-atomiswave
  57. https://nicole.express/2021/sega-sammy-atomiswave.html
  58. https://segaretro.org/Atomiswave
  59. https://gamesdb.launchbox-app.com/games/details/41851-the-king-of-fighters-xi
  60. http://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=724
  61. https://segaretro.org/Sega_Hikaru
  62. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=729
  63. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=728
  64. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/hardware/2421/triforce-arcade-board-arcade
  65. https://segaretro.org/Sega_Lindbergh
  66. https://segaretro.org/Sega_RingEdge
  67. https://www.gamespot.com/articles/sega-reveals-lindbergh-specs/1100-6132311/
  68. https://www.system16.com/hardware.php?id=731
  69. https://segaretro.org/Sega_RingWide
  70. https://www.siliconera.com/specs-of-segas-new-arcade-hardware/
  71. https://segaretro.org/Sega_RingEdge_2
  72. https://segaretro.org/ALLS
  73. https://segaretro.org/Sega_NU
  74. https://segaretro.org/List_of_Sega_arcade_systems
  75. https://thehistoryofhowweplay.wordpress.com/2021/09/17/david-rosen-of-sega-and-his-vision-for-arcade-games/
  76. https://www.arcade-museum.com/Videogame/sega-mega-tech
  77. https://nicole.express/2022/system-system-c-system-c-c-system.html
  78. https://segaretro.org/Sega_Europa-R
  79. https://gamicus.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_SEGA_arcade_system_boards
  80. https://segaretro.org/Nu
  81. https://www.arcade-projects.com/threads/sega-nu-system.13754/
  82. https://www.giantbomb.com/sega-alls/3015-9872/
  83. https://www.gamesindustry.biz/51-of-japanese-game-makers-use-generative-ai
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.