Ep.218 – Turbo PCs

A Trip Down Memory Card Lane

Today, we’re heading back to the late 80s to explore the NEC PC Engine, better known in North America as the TurboGrafx-16. We start by uncovering the partnership between NEC and Hudson Soft, whose collaboration resulted in one of the smallest yet most powerful consoles of its time. Then, we’ll look at the PC Engine’s innovative features, including its compact HuCard media and groundbreaking CD-ROM add-on, which helped set it apart from competitors. We’ll also explore the console’s journey across the Pacific, its rebranding as the TurboGrafx-16, and its challenges in the U.S. market against the Sega Genesis. Finally, we’ll reflect on the PC Engine’s legacy, from its celebrated library to its impact on gaming technology. So, grab your controllers and join us as we power up the PC Engine on today’s trip down Memory Card Lane.