ColecoVision
Arcade-quality graphics at home in 1982
- 1982Released
- 2ndGeneration
- ColecoDeveloper
ColecoVision Specifications
- Processor
- Zilog Z80A
- Processor Speed
- 3.58 MHz
- RAM
- 1 KB
- GPU
- Texas Instruments TMS9928A
- Video RAM
- 16 KB
- Resolution
- 256 x 192 pixels
Overview
The ColecoVision was released by Coleco in August 1982. Its hardware was built from off-the-shelf parts, a Zilog Z80 processor and a Texas Instruments video chip, which later appeared in the MSX computers and, in a modified form, the Sega SG-1000 and Master System.
Coleco’s big win was licensing Nintendo’s Donkey Kong, which came with every console. Its arcade conversions were much closer to the originals than those on the Atari 2600 or Intellivision, and it also had Zaxxon, Venture, Mr. Do! and Lady Bug.
Expansion modules let the ColecoVision play Atari 2600 cartridges, drive with a steering wheel, or turn into the Adam home computer. The console sold over two million units by 1984, but the video game crash of 1983 and the troubled Adam computer hurt Coleco badly, and the ColecoVision was discontinued in 1985.
It still has an active homebrew scene, helped by the Super Game Module and larger MegaCart cartridges. Gearcoleco is an accurate, open source emulator that handles both, and it is the easiest choice today. You need the ColecoVision BIOS file.
Key Features
Arcade Conversions
Arcade conversions much closer to the originals than its rivals.
Donkey Kong Bundle
Licensed Nintendo's Donkey Kong, which came with every console.
Expansion Modules
Modules added 2600 games, a steering wheel or the Adam computer.
Off-the-Shelf Parts
A Z80 and TI video chip later used in MSX computers.
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ColecoVision Emulators
Which one to pick
Known forAccurate ColecoVision and Coleco ADAM emulation with a debugger, Super Game Module and MegaCart support.
Known forThe reference emulator for arcade machines, which also covers the ColecoVision among hundreds of systems.
Known forA multi-system emulator that puts accuracy and preservation first.
Known forVery high 3DO compatibility, with the ColecoVision, Master System and Jaguar too.
Known forAn MSX emulator for Windows that also covers the ColecoVision.
In short
Gearcoleco is the one to start with: it is made for the ColecoVision and handles its add-ons. MAME and ares cover it among many other systems. Phoenix and blueMSX also run ColecoVision games.
