Reviews
Polymega Collection Vol. 1 Review: A New Era for Retro Gaming Enthusiasts

As a long-time retro gaming enthusiast, I often find myself searching for the most efficient and enjoyable ways to relive the iconic games of past generations. The allure of nostalgia never fades, but as time goes on, it becomes increasingly difficult to find original hardware and game cartridges in good condition. That’s where the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 comes into play. This collection promises a bridge between modern gaming and the classics that defined our childhoods. In this review of the Polymega Collection Vol. 1, I’ll walk you through what makes this offering stand out and whether it truly delivers on its promise of bringing the best retro games into the modern era.
A Brief Overview of Polymega
Before diving into the specifics of the Polymega Collection Vol. 1, let’s take a moment to discuss what Polymega itself is. Polymega is a modular console designed to play retro games from various systems through emulation, while also supporting physical cartridges and discs. It is compatible with some of the most beloved gaming consoles from the past, including the Sega Saturn, PlayStation, Neo Geo, and more. The system’s primary selling point is its ability to bring retro gaming into the modern world without sacrificing the authenticity of the original experience.
The Polymega Collection Vol. 1 is a curated selection of titles that are playable on the Polymega console, designed for those who want a simple and convenient way to experience the best of retro gaming without hunting down individual games. For those who are nostalgic for the classics but prefer the convenience of modern technology, this collection offers an ideal solution. But is it truly the ultimate collection of retro games? Let’s find out in this review of the Polymega Collection Vol. 1.
A Rich Selection of Games from Classic Consoles
One of the first things that caught my attention while reviewing the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 was the selection of games. This collection doesn’t just feature a handful of titles; it offers a rich library of games pulled from some of the most popular and influential gaming consoles of the past. From platformers and puzzle games to fighters and RPGs, the collection covers a broad spectrum of genres, ensuring that there is something for every type of gamer.
A Blend of Iconic and Lesser-Known Titles
In this review of the Polymega Collection Vol. 1, it’s impossible not to notice the diversity of games on offer. Classic titles like Final Fantasy VII and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night are included, alongside hidden gems such as Tomba! and Lunar: Silver Star Story. This blend of well-known favorites and lesser-known masterpieces is part of what makes the collection so special. For retro gaming fans, having access to both iconic titles and rare finds creates an experience that feels authentic and rewarding.
It’s clear that the Polymega team carefully curated this collection to offer a broad range of experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for a fast-paced fighting game, an immersive RPG, or a whimsical platformer, this collection has you covered. The variety of genres ensures that there’s something here for everyone, whether you’re new to retro gaming or a seasoned veteran.
High-Quality Emulation for the Best Experience
One of the concerns I had going into this review of the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 was the quality of the emulation. Many retro collections struggle to offer a smooth and authentic gaming experience, especially when it comes to emulating older hardware. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the Polymega system’s emulation. The games ran smoothly, and there was no noticeable lag or graphical glitches.
One of the standout features of the Polymega system is the ability to toggle between various display options. If you want to experience your favorite games as they were seen on old CRT televisions, the system offers CRT filters that mimic the classic look and feel. For those who prefer modern aesthetics, you can easily switch to a sharper, more polished display. This level of customization ensures that every gamer can tailor their experience to their personal preferences.
Another feature worth noting is the smooth load times and the absence of any technical hiccups. Unlike some other emulators, the Polymega system’s hardware handles retro games with ease, ensuring a seamless experience that mirrors the original gameplay.
The Convenience of Save States and Quick Saves
For modern gamers who are used to the convenience of quick saves and save states, the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 has you covered. While retro games were once restricted to save points or long playthroughs, Polymega’s save state functionality allows you to save your progress at any point and pick up right where you left off. This is an invaluable feature for anyone who doesn’t have the time to play through an entire game in one sitting, or for those who want to experiment with different strategies without committing to an entire playthrough.
The quick save feature also allows you to create backup saves at any time, providing even more flexibility. Whether you’re playing an RPG and need to backtrack or you want to jump between games without losing your spot, this functionality adds a modern twist to classic gameplay.
Easy Setup and User-Friendly Interface
Another aspect of the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 that impressed me was the ease of setup. As much as I love retro gaming, I’m not a fan of complicated systems that require hours of configuration. Polymega takes a user-friendly approach to setup, and the whole process is as simple as plugging the console into your TV and starting the system. The included games are easily accessible, and the intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate through the collection and find the titles you want to play.
The user interface is designed with simplicity in mind. It’s clean, organized, and responsive, making it easy to jump into games without any frustration. Whether you’re browsing the collection for a specific game or adjusting your display settings, the interface ensures that everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Is Polymega Collection Vol. 1 Worth It?
As I reflect on this review of the Polymega Collection Vol. 1, I can’t help but be impressed with what this collection offers. The blend of iconic games and lesser-known titles, combined with high-quality emulation and modern features like save states and quick saves, makes this an enticing package for retro gaming fans. It’s not just a collection of old games—it’s a curated experience that brings the best of retro gaming into the modern era.
For those who are looking to dive into the world of retro gaming without the hassle of hunting down rare cartridges and consoles, the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 offers a convenient and high-quality solution. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about experiencing these classic games with all the conveniences of modern technology.
In conclusion, the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 is a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts. Whether you’re revisiting your childhood favorites or discovering hidden gems, this collection offers an unparalleled experience. If you’re a fan of classic games and want a reliable, modern system to play them on, the Polymega Collection Vol. 1 is definitely worth considering.
