Venus S: Chinese Modder Unveils Sega Saturn Portable Inspired by Unreleased Prototype
The passion for classic game hardware continues to fuel impressive achievements within the retro gaming community, as Chinese modder TZMWX unveils the Venus S—a completely custom-built portable Sega Saturn console.
This device draws aesthetic inspiration from the elusive Sega Venus prototype, a portable Mega Drive variant first revealed by Sega in 2020, which eventually evolved into the North American Sega Nomad.
Unlike its Mega Drive-based design predecessor, the Venus S is fully powered by core Sega Saturn hardware. Background on TZMWX and the Venus S Project TZMWX has garnered attention over the past year for pushing the boundaries of custom console modification.
Their initial venture into a portable Saturn device was lauded for bringing the 32-bit arcade-perfect experience of Sega’s classic home console to a portable form factor—a technical feat requiring ingenuity and deep system knowledge.
Now, the Venus S represents the next evolution of this project, combining technical prowess with a historically significant design. Hardware Features and Design Inspiration The Venus S stands apart from other portable projects thanks to its use of actual Sega Saturn hardware at its core.
The handheld incorporates a Fenrir Optical Drive Emulator (ODE) for solid-state game loading, a VCD card for video playback functionality, both M/4M EXRAM modules, and a 4M memory card, staying true to the Saturn’s full game compatibility.
Notably, the handheld’s newly revealed case design mimics the blue-grey hues of the original JVC-manufactured Saturn shell. In a statement shared by TZMWX, the modder explained, "The color of the newly purchased 3D printing material closely matches the blue-grey of the JVC Saturn shell, giving the device a pleasing and comfortable look." Reflecting this fresh design approach, TZMWX has officially renamed the device Venus S—honoring Sega’s internal ‘Venus’ codename. Significance in the Retro Gaming Community While Sega’s Venus prototype never reached commercial release, its legacy lives on through projects like the Venus S.
Unlike Sega's Nomad—which brought Genesis games to portable audiences—this modded handheld provides enthusiasts and collectors a unique way to experience Saturn classics such as "NiGHTS into Dreams..." and "Virtua Fighter 2" on the go. The Venus S exemplifies the creativity found in today’s modding community, blending hardware nostalgia with innovative engineering.
For fans of Sega hardware, and those following the portable Saturn saga, the Venus S is a remarkable tribute to Sega’s storied hardware ambitions and a testament to the vibrant world of DIY development.
As interest in classic gaming platforms endures, projects like TZMWX’s Venus S are sure to inspire further exploration and preservation of gaming history.
This device draws aesthetic inspiration from the elusive Sega Venus prototype, a portable Mega Drive variant first revealed by Sega in 2020, which eventually evolved into the North American Sega Nomad.
Unlike its Mega Drive-based design predecessor, the Venus S is fully powered by core Sega Saturn hardware. Background on TZMWX and the Venus S Project TZMWX has garnered attention over the past year for pushing the boundaries of custom console modification.
Their initial venture into a portable Saturn device was lauded for bringing the 32-bit arcade-perfect experience of Sega’s classic home console to a portable form factor—a technical feat requiring ingenuity and deep system knowledge.
Now, the Venus S represents the next evolution of this project, combining technical prowess with a historically significant design. Hardware Features and Design Inspiration The Venus S stands apart from other portable projects thanks to its use of actual Sega Saturn hardware at its core.
The handheld incorporates a Fenrir Optical Drive Emulator (ODE) for solid-state game loading, a VCD card for video playback functionality, both M/4M EXRAM modules, and a 4M memory card, staying true to the Saturn’s full game compatibility.
Notably, the handheld’s newly revealed case design mimics the blue-grey hues of the original JVC-manufactured Saturn shell. In a statement shared by TZMWX, the modder explained, "The color of the newly purchased 3D printing material closely matches the blue-grey of the JVC Saturn shell, giving the device a pleasing and comfortable look." Reflecting this fresh design approach, TZMWX has officially renamed the device Venus S—honoring Sega’s internal ‘Venus’ codename. Significance in the Retro Gaming Community While Sega’s Venus prototype never reached commercial release, its legacy lives on through projects like the Venus S.
Unlike Sega's Nomad—which brought Genesis games to portable audiences—this modded handheld provides enthusiasts and collectors a unique way to experience Saturn classics such as "NiGHTS into Dreams..." and "Virtua Fighter 2" on the go. The Venus S exemplifies the creativity found in today’s modding community, blending hardware nostalgia with innovative engineering.
For fans of Sega hardware, and those following the portable Saturn saga, the Venus S is a remarkable tribute to Sega’s storied hardware ambitions and a testament to the vibrant world of DIY development.
As interest in classic gaming platforms endures, projects like TZMWX’s Venus S are sure to inspire further exploration and preservation of gaming history.
