Nov 19, 2025

PC Engine Console: The Complete Guide to NEC’s Underrated Retro Powerhouse

The PC Engine, released by NEC and Hudson Soft in 1987, remains one of the most unique and beloved consoles in retro gaming history. Small in size but powerful for its time, it stood out with colorful 8-bit/16-bit hybrid graphics, fast loading cartridges, and a library full of arcade-quality hits.

At Retros.ae, we celebrate iconic consoles like the PC Engine and help collectors find original retro hardware that still performs.

A Quick History of the PC Engine

When the PC Engine launched in Japan, it quickly became a major competitor to Nintendo’s Famicom and Sega’s Mega Drive. Thanks to its compact design and powerful custom chip, it delivered impressive visuals and gameplay that felt ahead of its generation.

In North America, it was rebranded as the TurboGrafx-16, but it never reached the same popularity it had in Japan.

What Made the PC Engine Special?

1. Compact but Powerful Design

Its small size made it instantly recognizable and highly portable.

2. HuCard Games

Thin credit-card-style cartridges that loaded extremely fast.

3. Strong Arcade Game Support

NEC partnered with Hudson Soft to bring arcade-quality hits straight to home consoles.

4. CD-ROM Add-On

The PC Engine CD-ROM² unit became the first CD-based console expansion, opening the door to larger and richer games.

Popular PC Engine Games

Some of the most iconic titles include:

R-Type
Bomberman '94
Dracula X: Rondo of Blood
Ys Book I & II
Ninja Spirit

These are still highly sought after by collectors and retro fans.

Why Retro Collectors Still Love It

The PC Engine is known for:

Unique hardware designs (CoreGrafx, Duo, SuperGrafx)
Beautiful 2D graphics
Rare and collectible game library
Strong Japanese exclusives

Many collectors consider it the most underrated console of the late ’80s and early ’90s.

Where to Buy PC Engine Consoles Today

If you're looking to start or expand your retro collection, you can find authentic PC Engine consoles and accessories at Retros.ae — your trusted source for real retro hardware in the UAE.

Browse our collection:
👉www.retros.ae

Final Thoughts

The PC Engine remains a standout in the history of gaming. With its fast gameplay, advanced graphics for the time, and iconic titles, it continues to fascinate both retro veterans and new collectors.

Whether you're discovering it for the first time or reliving your childhood memories, the PC Engine deserves a special place in any retro collection.