ColecoVision vs TurboGrafx-16

The ColecoVision and TurboGrafx-16 were both popular gaming consoles in the 1980s, each offering unique features and a diverse library of games. While the ColecoVision was known for its advanced graphics and arcade ports, the TurboGrafx-16 stood out for its innovative CD-ROM technology and strong lineup of Japanese titles.

General information

ColecoVision
TurboGrafx-16
Introduction :
The ColecoVision was released in 1982 and quickly became a popular choice for gamers in North America. It featured a wide range of games with impressive graphics for its time, making it a classic console that is highly sought after by collectors today. The ColecoVision is known for its innovative controllers and library of games that included popular titles like Donkey Kong and Zaxxon.
Introduction :
The TurboGrafx-16, released in 1989 by NEC Corporation, was a pioneer in the gaming industry with its 16-bit graphics and CD-ROM capabilities. Although it was not as popular as other consoles of its time, it has gained a cult following and is considered a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. The console was primarily marketed in Japan and North America, and its unique library of games makes it a sought-after collectible for gaming collectors.
Advantages :
  • Extensive library of classic games
  • Retro gaming experience
  • Durable hardware
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Affordable price point
Advantages :
  • Extensive library of unique and innovative games to explore. - Compact size makes it easy to store and transport. - Ability to play both HuCard and CD-ROM games. - Superior graphics and sound capabilities for its time. - Multiplayer options for competitive and cooperative gameplay.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to newer consoles.
  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Difficulty finding working consoles and games.
  • Limited availability of accessories and peripherals.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to other consoles.
  • Expensive and hard-to-find games and accessories.
  • Lack of popular third-party support.
  • Limited graphics and sound capabilities compared to competitors.
  • Fragile hardware prone to technical issues and malfunctions.
Year launched : 1982
The ColecoVision was launched in 1982, offering advanced graphics and gameplay compared to other consoles of its time. It quickly became popular for its library of games and add-on peripherals.
Year launched : 1987
The TurboGrafx-16 was launched in 1987, offering gamers a unique gaming experience with its advanced graphics and sound capabilities. It was ahead of its time in terms of technology and innovation.
Manufacturer : Coleco Industries
ColecoVision was manufactured by Coleco Industries, a company known for producing various gaming consoles and toys during the 1980s. The ColecoVision was a popular console during its time.
Manufacturer : NEC Corporation
The TurboGrafx-16 was manufactured by NEC Corporation, a Japanese multinational electronics company. Known for its innovative technology, NEC created the TurboGrafx-16 to compete in the gaming console market.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The ColecoVision had a moderate level of popularity during its release in the early 1980s, with a decent number of units sold. It had a niche market share compared to other consoles of its time.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The TurboGrafx-16 had limited success in the market, with lower sales compared to its competitors like the NES and Sega Genesis. It struggled to gain a significant market share and popularity.
Form factor : Home console.
The ColecoVision console is designed as a home gaming system, meant to be set up in a living room or entertainment area for a traditional gaming experience.
Form factor : Home console.
The TurboGrafx-16 is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not a portable unit and is best enjoyed in a stationary setting.


Market and availability

ColecoVision
TurboGrafx-16
Console markets :
The ColecoVision was available in North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia during its release in the early 1980s. It was not widely available in other regions outside of these markets.
Console markets :
The TurboGrafx-16 was primarily available in North America and Japan, with limited availability in Europe. It was not widely distributed in other regions, making it a sought-after console for collectors worldwide.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The ColecoVision is now considered retro and highly collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its unique library of games and historical significance make it a sought-after item for collectors and fans of classic gaming.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The TurboGrafx-16 is now considered a retro and collectible console, with a dedicated fan base and increasing demand for its games and accessories in the collector's market.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The ColecoVision console is moderately available in the secondhand market, with some units in good condition but also some scarcity. Collectors may find it more challenging to locate specific models or accessories.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The TurboGrafx-16 is moderately available on the secondhand market, with some units in good condition but may be harder to find compared to more popular consoles. Collectible versions may be more scarce.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The ColecoVision console is considered low in cost due to its age and limited availability. It can often be found at affordable prices in the second-hand market.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The TurboGrafx-16 is considered an average cost console due to its availability in the second-hand market. Prices can vary depending on the condition and included accessories.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the ColecoVision can be found on the secondhand market, but availability may vary. Some titles are considered collectible, which can impact pricing and availability for certain games.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the TurboGrafx-16 are available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to find or more expensive due to the console's limited release and cult following.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for ColecoVision is average. While some titles may be more expensive due to rarity, many games are still affordable and accessible for collectors and gamers.
🔴 Game costs : High.
The relative cost of games for the TurboGrafx-16 is considered high due to the limited availability of games and the popularity of the console among collectors, leading to higher prices in the second-hand market.


Technology

ColecoVision
TurboGrafx-16
Architecture : 8-bit.
The ColecoVision uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the early 1980s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to later consoles.
Architecture : 8-bit.
The TurboGrafx-16 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common during the late 1980s. This architecture allowed for colorful graphics and fast gameplay for its time.
CPU : Zilog Z80
The ColecoVision uses the Zilog Z80 CPU, a popular choice for many retro gaming consoles. Known for its reliability and efficiency, the Z80 helped power a wide range of classic games.
CPU : HuC6280
The TurboGrafx-16 uses the HuC6280 CPU, which is an 8-bit microprocessor with a clock speed of 7.16 MHz. It is known for its audio processing capabilities and was specifically designed for gaming consoles.
Memory : 32 Kb
The ColecoVision games console has 32 Kb of memory, which was considered a decent amount for gaming in the early 1980s. This allowed for a variety of games to be played.
Memory : 8 Kb RAM, 64 Kb VRAM
The TurboGrafx-16 has 8 Kb of RAM and 64 Kb of VRAM, allowing for smooth gameplay and graphics for its time. While small by today's standards, it was impressive in the late 1980s.
Video output : RF and Composite
The ColecoVision has RF and Composite video output connections, which may require adapters or converters to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or component inputs.
Video output : Composite
The TurboGrafx-16 has composite video output connections, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI inputs.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The ColecoVision's hardware specifications are not well-documented, making it unclear whether it had a dedicated GPU. Further research is needed to determine the presence and details of a GPU.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The TurboGrafx-16 has a dedicated GPU, the HuC6270, which was known for its impressive performance capabilities during its time, allowing for smooth graphics and gameplay on the console.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The ColecoVision is not internet connected. It does not have any notable internet connectivity features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi capabilities.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The TurboGrafx-16 does not have built-in internet connectivity features like Ethernet or Wi-Fi. It primarily focuses on providing a high-quality gaming experience without online capabilities.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the ColecoVision is cartridge-based. Players insert game cartridges into the console to play different games, offering a diverse gaming library for users.
Game media format : .
The primary game format for the TurboGrafx-16 is the HuCard, which are small, credit card-sized cartridges that are inserted into the console to play games.


Gaming

ColecoVision
TurboGrafx-16
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The ColecoVision typically supports 2 controllers, allowing for 2 players to enjoy multiplayer games. This classic console offers a shared gaming experience for friends and family to enjoy together.
Controllers : 2
The TurboGrafx-16 supports up to 2 players with wired controllers. This allows for multiplayer gaming experiences on the console, making it a great option for gaming with friends or family.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The ColecoVision does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities, but there may be third-party adapters or modifications available to enable online multiplayer functionality.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The TurboGrafx-16 does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, there may be third-party adapters or modifications available to enable online multiplayer functionality.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for ColecoVision were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. Some titles may be harder to find now due to the console's age, but they are still collectible among retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the TurboGrafx-16 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. Some titles may be harder to find due to the console's limited popularity, but overall, there are options for players.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The ColecoVision has several exclusive and iconic games such as Donkey Kong, Zaxxon, and Smurf: Rescue in Gargamel's Castle, which are highly regarded in the gaming community.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The TurboGrafx-16 has several exclusive and iconic games such as Bonk's Adventure, Splatterhouse, and Ys Book I & II, which are highly regarded by retro gaming enthusiasts.


When choosing between the ColecoVision and TurboGrafx-16, consider your preference for game selection and technology. If you enjoy classic arcade games and solid graphics, the ColecoVision may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are interested in exploring Japanese games and cutting-edge CD-ROM technology, the TurboGrafx-16 could be the right console for you.