Veteran modder TZMWX has made a notable mark in the retro gaming community, previously creating an exclusive handheld version of the Sega Saturn.
Now, TZMWX has returned with an even more ambitious tribute—this time focused on one of Sega's most elusive and coveted machines, the Sega CDX, in the form of a newly engineered device called the Sega CDX2. Sega's hardware history in the 1990s was marked by rapid innovation and a crowded product lineup that included standout consoles such as the Genesis (Mega Drive), Game Gear, Mega CD, Nomad, 32X, and the Sega Saturn itself.
Amid this wave, Sega released the CDX (also known as the Multi-Mega), a unique hybrid of the Mega Drive and Mega CD that achieved remarkable portability, matching the size of a typical portable CD player and even functioning as one with battery operation. Produced in limited numbers, the original CDX has since become one of the most desirable—and expensive—Sega consoles, attracting collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Drawing inspiration from this rare relic, TZMWX engineered the Sega CDX2 by fitting Sega Saturn hardware into a similarly compact and portable shell, effectively creating a one-of-a-kind handheld Saturn. The project first saw its prototype completed in December of last year.
To achieve the compact design, TZMWX "folded the actual motherboard in half to minimize its footprint and utilized Sony's KSM-900 drive mechanism to reduce the optical drive’s height." The unit integrates advanced technical features, including a built-in modchip, EXRAM 1M/4M (to support expansion cartridges necessary for certain games), and an integrated memory card for game saves. Continuing his innovative approach, TZMWX recently showcased the unique exterior for the Sega CDX2.
The case combined a custom bottom section with the upper shell from a Sanyo CD player, ultimately topped off with a small LCD screen—making the Saturn truly portable and independent from any television.
In the latest iteration, additional enhancements were made: a modified top cover allows for modular attachments with various functions, and the casing now features cutouts for the power switch and different interface ports.
TZMWX also incorporated a robust Panasonic 21700 battery to ensure untethered gameplay. When asked whether the Sega CDX2 might ever be commercially available, TZMWX clarified that each device he makes is a unique, one-off creation and is not offered for sale.
As a result, this extraordinary Saturn portable remains an exclusive concept, captivating Sega enthusiasts and modding aficionados but unavailable for general purchase. By pushing the boundaries of retro hardware modification, TZMWX’s Sega CDX2 honors Sega’s innovative legacy and showcases what is possible when meticulous engineering meets a passion for gaming history.
Now, TZMWX has returned with an even more ambitious tribute—this time focused on one of Sega's most elusive and coveted machines, the Sega CDX, in the form of a newly engineered device called the Sega CDX2. Sega's hardware history in the 1990s was marked by rapid innovation and a crowded product lineup that included standout consoles such as the Genesis (Mega Drive), Game Gear, Mega CD, Nomad, 32X, and the Sega Saturn itself.
Amid this wave, Sega released the CDX (also known as the Multi-Mega), a unique hybrid of the Mega Drive and Mega CD that achieved remarkable portability, matching the size of a typical portable CD player and even functioning as one with battery operation. Produced in limited numbers, the original CDX has since become one of the most desirable—and expensive—Sega consoles, attracting collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Drawing inspiration from this rare relic, TZMWX engineered the Sega CDX2 by fitting Sega Saturn hardware into a similarly compact and portable shell, effectively creating a one-of-a-kind handheld Saturn. The project first saw its prototype completed in December of last year.
To achieve the compact design, TZMWX "folded the actual motherboard in half to minimize its footprint and utilized Sony's KSM-900 drive mechanism to reduce the optical drive’s height." The unit integrates advanced technical features, including a built-in modchip, EXRAM 1M/4M (to support expansion cartridges necessary for certain games), and an integrated memory card for game saves. Continuing his innovative approach, TZMWX recently showcased the unique exterior for the Sega CDX2.
The case combined a custom bottom section with the upper shell from a Sanyo CD player, ultimately topped off with a small LCD screen—making the Saturn truly portable and independent from any television.
In the latest iteration, additional enhancements were made: a modified top cover allows for modular attachments with various functions, and the casing now features cutouts for the power switch and different interface ports.
TZMWX also incorporated a robust Panasonic 21700 battery to ensure untethered gameplay. When asked whether the Sega CDX2 might ever be commercially available, TZMWX clarified that each device he makes is a unique, one-off creation and is not offered for sale.
As a result, this extraordinary Saturn portable remains an exclusive concept, captivating Sega enthusiasts and modding aficionados but unavailable for general purchase. By pushing the boundaries of retro hardware modification, TZMWX’s Sega CDX2 honors Sega’s innovative legacy and showcases what is possible when meticulous engineering meets a passion for gaming history.
