Difference between revisions of "LaserActive"

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| logo=LaserActive logo.png
 
| logo=LaserActive logo.png
 
| consoleimage=PioneerLaserActive.jpg
 
| consoleimage=PioneerLaserActive.jpg
−
| name=LaserActive
 
 
| maker=[[Pioneer]]
 
| maker=[[Pioneer]]
 
| variants=[[nec:NEC P-LD1|NEC PCE-LD1]]
 
| variants=[[nec:NEC P-LD1|NEC PCE-LD1]]
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}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
−
The '''LaserActive''' (パイオニアレーザーアクティブ) is a video game-compatible [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]] player designed and manufactured by [[Pioneer]]. Released in Japan and North America in late 1993, the system features interchangeable hardware expansions known as PACs, which enable compatibility with [[Mega Drive]] and [[Mega-CD]] games, [[nec:PC Engine|PC Engine]] and [[nec:PC Engine CD-ROM²|PC Engine CD-ROM²]] games, and a new type of [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]]-based format: '''Sega Mega LD''' and '''NEC LD-ROM²'''.
+
The '''LaserActive''' (パイオニアレーザーアクティブ) is a video game-compatible [[LaserDisc]] player designed and manufactured by [[Pioneer]].{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20201111214049/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/interviews/}} Released in Japan and North America in late 1993, the system features interchangeable hardware expansions known as PACs, which enable compatibility with [[Mega Drive]] and [[Mega-CD]] games, [[nec:PC Engine|PC Engine]] and [[nec:PC Engine CD-ROM²|PC Engine CD-ROM²]] games, and a new type of LaserDisc-based format: '''Mega LD''' and '''LD-ROM²'''.{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20240814173342/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/}}
  
−
[[wikipedia:NEC|NEC]] produced a rebranded version of the system, the [[nec:NEC PCE-LD1|NEC PCE-LD1]].{{ref|http://www.laserdiscarchive.co.uk/laserdisc_archive/nec/nec_pce-ld1/nec_pce-ld1.htm}}{{ref|1=http://www.rfgeneration.com/PHP/gethwinfo.php?ID=J-053-H-00070-A}}
+
[[NEC]] produced a rebranded version of the system, the [[nec:NEC PCE-LD1|NEC PCE-LD1]].{{ref|http://www.laserdiscarchive.co.uk/laserdisc_archive/nec/nec_pce-ld1/nec_pce-ld1.htm}}{{ref|1=http://www.rfgeneration.com/PHP/gethwinfo.php?ID=J-053-H-00070-A}}
  
 
==Hardware==
 
==Hardware==
−
[[File:LaserActive announcementpromo.png|thumb|right|300px|A 1993 promotional photograph.]]
 
 
===LaserDisc===
 
===LaserDisc===
−
The LaserActive plays all sizes of [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]] media. Considered a mid-range player in terms of playback quality, inserting a [[Sega PAC]] or [[nec:NEC PAC|NEC PAC]] expands the hardware with advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.{{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/}} The LaserActive cannot automatically switch between a disc's sides, and requires users to eject, flip, and re-insert discs halfway between most movies and software.
+
The LaserActive plays all sizes of both standard [[compact disc]] and [[LaserDisc]] media, including [[wikipedia:CD Video|CD Video]] and [[wikipedia:LaserActive|LaserKaraoke]] discs. Considered a mid-range player in terms of playback quality, inserting a [[Sega PAC]] or [[nec:NEC PAC|NEC PAC]] expands the hardware with advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20240814173342/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/}} The LaserActive cannot automatically switch between a disc's sides, and requires users to eject, flip, and re-insert discs halfway between most movies and software.
  
−
The system outputs in composite video (the format which all LaserDiscs are natively encoded in), and when playing video games, boasts superior video quality to both the [[Mega Drive]] and [[nec:PC Engine|PC Engine]]'s composite video output.  
+
[[File:LaserActive announcementpromo.png|thumb|left|280px|Expandability was a primary design focus.]]
 +
The system outputs in composite video (the format which all LaserDiscs are natively encoded in), and when playing video games, boasts superior video quality to both the [[Mega Drive]] and [[nec:PC Engine|PC Engine]]'s composite video output - particularly in regards to its comb filter. While the LaserActive supports [[wikipedia:DTS (company)|DTS]], it notably lacks the popular [[wikipedia:Dolby AC-3|Dolby AC-3]] surround sound capabilities found on later players, instead relying on software developers to encode spatial audio systems like [[RSS]] into their releases directly.
  
−
The hardware lacks the popular [[wikipedia:Dolby AC-3|Dolby AC-3]] surround sound capabilities found on later players, instead relying on software developers to encode spatial audio effects into their releases (usually [[wikipedia:Roland Corporation|Roland Corporation]]'s [[RSS]] technology.)
+
LaserActive games were specifically developed to take advantage of the video storage potential of [[LaserDisc]] media. Similar to how the popular LaserDisc-based arcade game ''[[wikipedia:Dragon's Lair|Dragon's Lair]]'' used special technology to add an interactive layer to the video, '''Mega LD''' and '''LD-ROM²''' could do the same. These two formats were rebranded versions of Philips' [[wikipedia:LD-ROM|LD-ROM]] format, adapted for each company's respective PAC. However, the format's generally [[wikipedia:480i|480i]] content had to be downsampled to [[wikipedia:240p|240p]] whenever developers wished to display additional on-screen graphics with their games (to match the resolution of the 16-bit hardware the format works with.)
−
 
 
−
===Sega Mega LD & NEC LD-ROM²===
 
−
Certain games were developed to take advantage of [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]] media. Similar to how the popular [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]]-based arcade game ''[[wikipedia:Dragon's Lair|Dragon's Lair]]'' used special technology to add an interactive layer to the video, '''Sega Mega LD''' and '''NEC LD-ROM²''' could do the same. These two formats were rebranded versions of Philips' [[wikipedia:LD-ROM|LD-ROM]] format, adapted for each company's respective PAC. However, the format's generally [[wikipedia:480i|480i]] content had to be downsampled to [[wikipedia:240p|240p]] whenever developers wished to display additional on-screen graphics with their games (to match the resolution of the 16-bit hardware the format works with.)
 
  
 
===PACs===
 
===PACs===
−
The LaserActive is designed to be an expandable and widely-compatible system. In addition to its existing ability to play [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]] and [[wikipedia:LD-G|LD-G]] formats, the system can be expanded with plug-in hardware modules called PACs (sometimes stylized as Packs.) PACs expand the system's capabilities, such as the [[Sega PAC]] giving the system the capabilities of a [[Sega Mega Drive]] and [[Sega Mega-CD]] combined, allowing for playback of additional formats such as [[wikipedia:CD-G|CD-G]]. While PACs are generally region locked, [[Sega Mega LD]] and [[nec:NEC LD-ROM²|NEC LD-ROM²]] games are region free and will play on any NTSC system.
+
The LaserActive is designed to be an expandable and widely-compatible system. In addition to its existing ability to play [[LaserDisc]] and [[wikipedia:LD-G|LD-G]] formats, the system can be expanded with plug-in hardware modules called PACs (sometimes stylized as Packs.) PACs expand the system's capabilities, such as the [[Sega PAC]] giving the system the capabilities of a [[Mega Drive]] and [[Mega-CD]] combined, allowing for playback of additional formats such as [[wikipedia:CD-G|CD-G]]. While PACs are region locked, Mega LD and LD-ROM² games are region free and will play on any NTSC system.
  
−
The PACs listed below are suffixed by (American model number/Japanese model number).
+
The PACs listed below are suffixed by (American model number/Japanese model number):
  
 
====Sega PAC (PAC-S10/PAC-S1)====
 
====Sega PAC (PAC-S10/PAC-S1)====
 +
[[File:LaserActive SegaPAC JP.jpg|thumb|right|280px|The [[Sega PAC]] allowed the system to play [[Mega Drive]], [[Mega-CD]], and Mega LD games.]]
 
{{MainArticle|Sega PAC}}
 
{{MainArticle|Sega PAC}}
−
The ''Sega PAC'' allows the system to play [[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Mega-CD]], and [[Sega Mega LD]] games, in addition to [[wikipedia:CD-G|CD-G]] media. Like it's counterpart, the [[nec:NEC PAC|NEC PAC]], it also expands the [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]] functionality of the system by adding advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.{{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/}}
+
The '''Sega PAC''' allows the system to play [[Mega Drive]], [[Mega-CD]], and Mega LD games, in addition to [[wikipedia:CD-G|CD-G]] media. Like it's counterpart, the [[nec:NEC PAC|NEC PAC]], it also expands the [[LaserDisc]] functionality of the system by adding advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20240814173342/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/}}
 +
 
 +
While also fully compatible with the [[Power Base Converter]], the accessory's plastic shell is too wide, resulting in it physically being unable to be inserted into the LaserActive. However, by positioning the system on the edge of a shelf or table, or by disassembling the Converter entirely, players can enjoy [[Master System]] games through the Sega PAC as well.{{fileref|LaserActive PowerBaseConverter.jpg}} Unfortunately, the [[Sega 32X]] lacks compatibility with the PAC altogether.{{ref|1=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lap39N4YrN4}}
  
 
====NEC PAC (PAC-N10/PAC-N1)====
 
====NEC PAC (PAC-N10/PAC-N1)====
 
:''Main article: [[nec:NEC PAC|NEC PAC]].''
 
:''Main article: [[nec:NEC PAC|NEC PAC]].''
−
The ''NEC PAC'' allows the system to play [[nec:NEC PC Engine|NEC PC Engine]], [[nec:NEC PC Engine CD-ROM²|NEC PC Engine CD-ROM²]], and [[nec:NEC LD-ROM²|NEC LD-ROM²]] games, in addition to [[wikipedia:CD-G|CD-G]] media. Like it's counterpart, the [[Sega PAC]], it also expands the [[wikipedia:LaserDisc|LaserDisc]] functionality of the system by adding advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.{{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/}}
+
The '''NEC PAC''' allows the system to play [[nec:NEC PC Engine|NEC PC Engine]], [[nec:NEC PC Engine CD-ROM²|NEC PC Engine CD-ROM²]], and [[nec:NEC LD-ROM²|NEC LD-ROM²]] games, in addition to [[wikipedia:CD-G|CD-G]] media. Like it's counterpart, the [[Sega PAC]], it also expands the [[LaserDisc]] functionality of the system by adding advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20240814173342/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/}}
  
 
====Karaoke PAC (PAC-K10/PAC-K1)====
 
====Karaoke PAC (PAC-K10/PAC-K1)====
 
{{MainArticle|Karaoke PAC}}
 
{{MainArticle|Karaoke PAC}}
−
The ''Karaoke PAC'' allows the system to play [https://obsoletemedia.org/laserkaraoke/ LaserKaraoke] media, and features karaoke-oriented inputs and controls.
+
The '''Karaoke PAC''' allows the system to play [https://obsoletemedia.org/laserkaraoke/ LaserKaraoke] media, and features karaoke-oriented inputs and controls.
  
 
====Computer Interface PAC (PAC-PC1)====
 
====Computer Interface PAC (PAC-PC1)====
 
{{MainArticle|Computer Interface PAC}}
 
{{MainArticle|Computer Interface PAC}}
−
The ''Computer Interface PAC'' allows the system to be controlled by an [[nec:NEC PC-98|NEC PC-98]], [[wikipedia:IBM PC DOS|IBM PC DOS]], or [[wikipedia:Classic Mac OS|Apple Macintosh]] personal computer{{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/image-gallery/#jp-carousel-338}}, by way of a custom program authored to communicate via the PAC's 25-pin serial port. The PAC is the only Japan-exclusive peripheral for the system.
+
The '''Computer Interface PAC''' allows the system to be controlled by an [[nec:NEC PC-98|NEC PC-98]], [[wikipedia:IBM PC DOS|IBM PC DOS]], or [[wikipedia:Classic Mac OS|Apple Macintosh]] personal computer{{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/image-gallery/#jp-carousel-338}}, by way of a custom program authored to communicate via the PAC's 25-pin serial port. The PAC is the only Japan-exclusive peripheral for the system.
 +
 
 +
==History==
 +
Released in Japan and the United States in late 1993, the LaserActive and its exclusive video game formats, Mega LD and LD-ROM², saw less than a few dozen releases, with limited support from developers and a software library of mixed quality.
  
−
===Technical specifications===
+
===Background===
−
{{mainArticle|LaserActive/Technical specifications}}
+
[[Pioneer]] had previously experimented with upgradable television sets with their SEED Television, which was sold alongside separate hardware expansion modules known as Packs. While most Packs offered additional audio and video functionality, Pioneer also released the [[Pioneer TV Video Game Pack SD-G5]], which enabled play of [[SG-1000]] and [[SC-3000]] game cartridges, and the Pioneer TV Video Game Pack SD-R5, which enabled play of [[MSX]] game cartridges.
 +
 
 +
===Development===
 +
[[File:LAExpress Vol12.pdf|page=1|260px|thumb|right|The promotional publication ''[[LA Express]]''.]]
 +
Approached by [[Pioneer]] to assemble a varied team of media artists to produce software for their upcoming {{PAGENAME}} platform, Japanese [[wikipedia:Ambient music|ambient]] musician [[Jotaro Nonaka]] founded [[Multimedia Creators Network]], notably adapting his own home into a recording studio and game development office. The group would go on to release three titles for the system: 1994's ''[[3D Museum]]'' and ''[[Melon Brains: Exploring The Mind Of The Dolphin]]'', and 1995's ''[[Goku]]'', with a fourth title, ''[[UFO & ET]]'', planned but ultimately cancelled.{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20201111214049/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/interviews/}}
 +
 
 +
===Release===
 +
The LaserActive was supported by ''[[LA Express]]'', a promotional publication released by [[Pioneer]] which generated hype for the system and announced upcoming titles.
 +
 
 +
While seemingly exclusive to Japan and the United States, it appears the LaserActive and its games were officially imported to Canadian buyers through Pioneer Electronics of Canada, Inc.
 +
 
 +
===Decline===
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} was not particularly successful or fondly remembered, partly because of its high price point, but mostly due to the subsequent failure of [[LaserDisc]] as a home video format. Developers equipped to produce new LaserDisc software were few and far between, and with its market already so limited, many potential developers were turned off from investing in an already-failing platform.
  
−
==History==
+
After the system's failure, [[Pioneer]] would reuse some of their LaserActive shell designs in future products; particularly, their standalone 3D headset adaptor was produced in a PAC shell, with its matching goggles designed as a spiritual successor to the system's [[3D Goggle]] peripheral.{{fileref|LaserActive PAC reusedshell.jpg}}
−
{{MainArticle|History of the LaserActive}}
 
  
 
===Localised names===
 
===Localised names===
Line 68: Line 81:
 
==List of games==
 
==List of games==
 
{{mainArticle|List of LaserActive games}}
 
{{mainArticle|List of LaserActive games}}
−
The following is a list of LaserActive games. 34 games were published for the system, produced on Sega Mega LD or NEC LD-ROM² formats, and released in [[LaserActive consoles in Japan|Japan]] or the [[LaserActive consoles in the United States|United States]].
+
The following is a list of LaserActive games. 34 games were published for the system, produced on Mega LD or LD-ROM² formats, and released in [[LaserActive consoles in Japan|Japan]] or the [[LaserActive consoles in the United States|United States]].
−
===Sega Mega LD===
+
===Mega LD===
 
{{multicol|
 
{{multicol|
 
*''[[3D Museum]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[3D Museum]]'' (1994)
Line 85: Line 98:
 
*''[[I Will: The Story of London]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[I Will: The Story of London]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[J.B. Harold Blue Chicago Blues]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[J.B. Harold Blue Chicago Blues]]'' (1994)
−
*''[[Melon Brains]]'' (1994)
+
*''[[Melon Brains: Exploring The Mind Of The Dolphin]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[Pyramid Patrol]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[Pyramid Patrol]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[Road Blaster]]'' (1995)
 
*''[[Road Blaster]]'' (1995)
Line 94: Line 107:
 
*''[[Virtual Cameraman]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[Virtual Cameraman]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[Virtual Cameraman 2]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[Virtual Cameraman 2]]'' (1994)
−
*''[[Zapping Satsui]]'' (1994)
+
*''[[Zapping "Satsui"]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 3]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}
 
*''[[Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 3]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}
 
*''[[Legacy]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20190104213745/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/2012/10/26/cancelled-laseractive-game-legacy/}}  
 
*''[[Legacy]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20190104213745/https://laseractive.wordpress.com/2012/10/26/cancelled-laseractive-game-legacy/}}  
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}}
 
}}
  
−
===NEC LD-ROM²===
+
===LD-ROM²===
 
{{multicol|
 
{{multicol|
−
*''[[nec:Akuma no Shinban|Akuma no Shinban]]'' (1993)
+
*''[[nec:3D Museum|3D Museum]]'' (1994)
 +
*''[[nec:Akuma no Shinpan: Konseiki Saigo no Shinri Game|Akuma no Shinpan: Konseiki Saigo no Shinri Game]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Angel Mate|Angel Mate]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Angel Mate|Angel Mate]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Bi Ryojon Collection: Minayo Watanabe|Bi Ryojon Collection: Minayo Watanabe]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[nec:Bi Ryojon Collection: Minayo Watanabe|Bi Ryojon Collection: Minayo Watanabe]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[nec:Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 2: Yuko Sakaki|Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 2: Yuko Sakaki]]'' (1995)
 
*''[[nec:Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 2: Yuko Sakaki|Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 2: Yuko Sakaki]]'' (1995)
 
*''[[nec:Dora Dora Paradise|Dora Dora Paradise]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[nec:Dora Dora Paradise|Dora Dora Paradise]]'' (1994)
 +
*''[[nec:Goku|Goku]]'' (1995)
 +
*''[[nec:J.B. Harold Blue Chicago Blues|J.B. Harold Blue Chicago Blues]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[nec:Manhattan Requiem|Manhattan Requiem]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Manhattan Requiem|Manhattan Requiem]]'' (1993)
 +
*''[[nec:Melon Brains: Exploring The Mind Of The Dolphin|Melon Brains: Exploring The Mind Of The Dolphin]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[nec:Quiz Econosaurus|Quiz Econosaurus]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Quiz Econosaurus|Quiz Econosaurus]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Vajra|Vajra]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Vajra|Vajra]]'' (1993)
 
*''[[nec:Vajra Ni|Vajra Ni]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[nec:Vajra Ni|Vajra Ni]]'' (1994)
−
*''[[nec:Zapping Satsui|Zapping Satsui]]'' (1994)
+
*''[[nec:Zapping "Satsui"|Zapping "Satsui"]]'' (1994)
 
*''[[nec:Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 3|Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 3]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}
 
*''[[nec:Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 3|Bi Ryojon Collection Vol. 3]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}
 
*''[[nec:NHK Conversational Chinese|NHK Conversational Chinese]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}{{ref|https://www.queenmeka.com/laseractive-les-prototypes/}}
 
*''[[nec:NHK Conversational Chinese|NHK Conversational Chinese]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}{{ref|https://www.queenmeka.com/laseractive-les-prototypes/}}
−
*''[[nec:Ozone|Ozone]]'' (''[[I Will: The Story of London]]'') (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}
+
*''[[nec:I Will: The Story of London|I Will: The Story of London]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}
 
*''[[nec:UFO & ET|UFO & ET]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}{{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/interviews/}}
 
*''[[nec:UFO & ET|UFO & ET]]'' (unreleased){{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/}}{{ref|https://laseractive.wordpress.com/interviews/}}
 
}}
 
}}
Line 125: Line 142:
 
==Promotional material==
 
==Promotional material==
 
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Promotional material}}
 
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Promotional material}}
−
 
−
==Artwork==
 
−
<gallery>
 
−
LaserActiveMegaLD logo.png|Mega LD logo
 
−
</gallery>
 
−
 
−
==Photo gallery==
 
−
<gallery>
 
−
LaserActive PowerBaseConverter.jpg|An attached [[Power Base Converter]].
 
−
</gallery>
 
  
 
==Physical scans==
 
==Physical scans==
Line 143: Line 150:
 
| manual=Pioneer Laseractive JP Manual.pdf
 
| manual=Pioneer Laseractive JP Manual.pdf
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
==Logos==
 +
<gallery>
 +
MegaLD logo color.png|Mega LD (color)
 +
LaserActiveMegaLD logo.png|Mega LD (monochrome)
 +
</gallery>
 +
 +
==Technical specifications==
 +
{{mainArticle|LaserActive/Technical specifications}}
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==

Latest revision as of 00:09, 15 September 2024

LaserActive logo.png
PioneerLaserActive.jpg
LaserActive
Manufacturer: Pioneer
Variants: NEC PCE-LD1
Add-ons: Sega PAC, NEC PAC, Karaoke PAC, Computer Interface PAC, 3D Goggle
Release Date RRP Code
Mega LD
JP 		¥89,800 (92,494)89,800e[1] CLD-A100
Mega LD
US 		$970.00970.00 CLD-A100

The LaserActive (パイオニアレーザーアクティブ) is a video game-compatible LaserDisc player designed and manufactured by Pioneer.[2] Released in Japan and North America in late 1993, the system features interchangeable hardware expansions known as PACs, which enable compatibility with Mega Drive and Mega-CD games, PC Engine and PC Engine CD-ROM² games, and a new type of LaserDisc-based format: Mega LD and LD-ROM².[3]

NEC produced a rebranded version of the system, the NEC PCE-LD1.[4][5]

Hardware

LaserDisc

The LaserActive plays all sizes of both standard compact disc and LaserDisc media, including CD Video and LaserKaraoke discs. Considered a mid-range player in terms of playback quality, inserting a Sega PAC or NEC PAC expands the hardware with advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.[3] The LaserActive cannot automatically switch between a disc's sides, and requires users to eject, flip, and re-insert discs halfway between most movies and software.

Expandability was a primary design focus.

The system outputs in composite video (the format which all LaserDiscs are natively encoded in), and when playing video games, boasts superior video quality to both the Mega Drive and PC Engine's composite video output - particularly in regards to its comb filter. While the LaserActive supports DTS, it notably lacks the popular Dolby AC-3 surround sound capabilities found on later players, instead relying on software developers to encode spatial audio systems like RSS into their releases directly.

LaserActive games were specifically developed to take advantage of the video storage potential of LaserDisc media. Similar to how the popular LaserDisc-based arcade game Dragon's Lair used special technology to add an interactive layer to the video, Mega LD and LD-ROM² could do the same. These two formats were rebranded versions of Philips' LD-ROM format, adapted for each company's respective PAC. However, the format's generally 480i content had to be downsampled to 240p whenever developers wished to display additional on-screen graphics with their games (to match the resolution of the 16-bit hardware the format works with.)

PACs

The LaserActive is designed to be an expandable and widely-compatible system. In addition to its existing ability to play LaserDisc and LD-G formats, the system can be expanded with plug-in hardware modules called PACs (sometimes stylized as Packs.) PACs expand the system's capabilities, such as the Sega PAC giving the system the capabilities of a Mega Drive and Mega-CD combined, allowing for playback of additional formats such as CD-G. While PACs are region locked, Mega LD and LD-ROM² games are region free and will play on any NTSC system.

The PACs listed below are suffixed by (American model number/Japanese model number):

Sega PAC (PAC-S10/PAC-S1)

The Sega PAC allowed the system to play Mega Drive, Mega-CD, and Mega LD games.
Main article: Sega PAC.

The Sega PAC allows the system to play Mega Drive, Mega-CD, and Mega LD games, in addition to CD-G media. Like it's counterpart, the NEC PAC, it also expands the LaserDisc functionality of the system by adding advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.[3]

While also fully compatible with the Power Base Converter, the accessory's plastic shell is too wide, resulting in it physically being unable to be inserted into the LaserActive. However, by positioning the system on the edge of a shelf or table, or by disassembling the Converter entirely, players can enjoy Master System games through the Sega PAC as well.[6] Unfortunately, the Sega 32X lacks compatibility with the PAC altogether.[7]

NEC PAC (PAC-N10/PAC-N1)

Main article: NEC PAC.

The NEC PAC allows the system to play NEC PC Engine, NEC PC Engine CD-ROM², and NEC LD-ROM² games, in addition to CD-G media. Like it's counterpart, the Sega PAC, it also expands the LaserDisc functionality of the system by adding advanced playback features like frame-by-frame view and multi-speed jogging.[3]

Karaoke PAC (PAC-K10/PAC-K1)

Main article: Karaoke PAC.

The Karaoke PAC allows the system to play LaserKaraoke media, and features karaoke-oriented inputs and controls.

Computer Interface PAC (PAC-PC1)

Main article: Computer Interface PAC.

The Computer Interface PAC allows the system to be controlled by an NEC PC-98, IBM PC DOS, or Apple Macintosh personal computer[8], by way of a custom program authored to communicate via the PAC's 25-pin serial port. The PAC is the only Japan-exclusive peripheral for the system.

History

Released in Japan and the United States in late 1993, the LaserActive and its exclusive video game formats, Mega LD and LD-ROM², saw less than a few dozen releases, with limited support from developers and a software library of mixed quality.

Background

Pioneer had previously experimented with upgradable television sets with their SEED Television, which was sold alongside separate hardware expansion modules known as Packs. While most Packs offered additional audio and video functionality, Pioneer also released the Pioneer TV Video Game Pack SD-G5, which enabled play of SG-1000 and SC-3000 game cartridges, and the Pioneer TV Video Game Pack SD-R5, which enabled play of MSX game cartridges.

Development

The promotional publication LA Express.

Approached by Pioneer to assemble a varied team of media artists to produce software for their upcoming LaserActive platform, Japanese ambient musician Jotaro Nonaka founded Multimedia Creators Network, notably adapting his own home into a recording studio and game development office. The group would go on to release three titles for the system: 1994's 3D Museum and Melon Brains: Exploring The Mind Of The Dolphin, and 1995's Goku, with a fourth title, UFO & ET, planned but ultimately cancelled.[2]

Release

The LaserActive was supported by LA Express, a promotional publication released by Pioneer which generated hype for the system and announced upcoming titles.

While seemingly exclusive to Japan and the United States, it appears the LaserActive and its games were officially imported to Canadian buyers through Pioneer Electronics of Canada, Inc.

Decline

The LaserActive was not particularly successful or fondly remembered, partly because of its high price point, but mostly due to the subsequent failure of LaserDisc as a home video format. Developers equipped to produce new LaserDisc software were few and far between, and with its market already so limited, many potential developers were turned off from investing in an already-failing platform.

After the system's failure, Pioneer would reuse some of their LaserActive shell designs in future products; particularly, their standalone 3D headset adaptor was produced in a PAC shell, with its matching goggles designed as a spiritual successor to the system's 3D Goggle peripheral.[9]

Localised names

Also known as
Language Localised Name English Translation
English (US) LaserActive LaserActive
Japanese パイオニアレーザーアクティブ LaserActive

List of games

Main article: List of LaserActive games.

The following is a list of LaserActive games. 34 games were published for the system, produced on Mega LD or LD-ROM² formats, and released in Japan or the United States.

Mega LD

LD-ROM²

Magazine articles

Main article: LaserActive/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Main article: LaserActive/Promotional material.

Physical scans

LaserActive, JP
LaserActive JP box front.png
Cover
Pioneer Laseractive JP Manual.pdf
Manual

Logos

  • Mega LD (color)

  • Mega LD (monochrome)

Technical specifications

Main article: LaserActive/Technical specifications.

External links

References

  1. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "October 1993" (JP; 1993-09-08), page 18
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://laseractive.wordpress.com/interviews/ (Wayback Machine: 2020-11-11 21:40)
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 https://laseractive.wordpress.com/about-the-laseractive/ (Wayback Machine: 2024-08-14 17:33)
  4. ↑ http://www.laserdiscarchive.co.uk/laserdisc_archive/nec/nec_pce-ld1/nec_pce-ld1.htm
  5. ↑ http://www.rfgeneration.com/PHP/gethwinfo.php?ID=J-053-H-00070-A
  6. ↑ File:LaserActive PowerBaseConverter.jpg
  7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lap39N4YrN4
  8. ↑ File:LaserActive PAC reusedshell.jpg
  9. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 10.6 10.7 10.8 https://laseractive.wordpress.com/laseractive-release-database/
  10. ↑ https://laseractive.wordpress.com/2012/10/26/cancelled-laseractive-game-legacy/ (Wayback Machine: 2019-01-04 21:37)
  11. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 https://www.queenmeka.com/laseractive-les-prototypes/
  12. ↑ 13.0 13.1 https://laseractive.wordpress.com/interviews/
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NEC Retro has more information related to LaserActive


LaserActive
Topics Technical specifications | List of games | Magazine articles | Promotional material | LA Express | Pioneer LDC | Multimedia Creators Network
Hardware Japan | United States
NEC PCE-LD1
Add-ons Sega PAC | NEC PAC | Karaoke PAC | Computer Interface PAC
Controllers Control Pad | Turbo Pad | Remote Control Unit | Computer Interface Pack Remote Control Unit
Accessories 3D Goggle | 3D Goggle Adaptor | Control Pad Extension Cord | Turbo Pad Extension Cord | Karaoke Microphone | Karaoke Microphone (Key Control)
Sega Mega Drive
Topics Technical specifications (Hardware comparison) | History | List of games | Magazine articles | Promotional material | Merchandise | Cartridges | TradeMark Security System
Hardware Japan | North America | Western Europe | Eastern Europe | South America | Asia | South Korea | Australasia | Africa
EZ Games | Genesis 3 | LaserActive | Mega Jet | Mega PC | Mega Play | Mega-Tech System | Mega 6 | Nomad | Teradrive | Mega Drive Mini | Mega Drive Mini 2
New Mega Drive | Tianli VCD/DVD Players | "Consoles on a chip" | Licensed clones (Magic 2 | Mega Game II | Power Pegasus | Super Bitman)
Unlicensed clones
Add-ons Game Box | Power Base Converter | Mega-CD | 32X (Mega-CD 32X) | Mega Modem | Demo System DS-16
Cases Sega Genesis Nomad Carrying Case | System Carry Case
Controllers Control Pad | Six Button Control Pad | 6 Button Arcade Pad | Arcade Power Stick 6B | Konami Justifier | MK-1470
Action Chair | Activator | Arcade Power Stick | Keyboard | MegaFire | Mouse | Mega Stick | Menacer | Remote Arcade System | Ten Key Pad | Third Party Controllers
Accessories 4 Way Play | AC adaptor | Cleaning System | Control Pad Extension Cord | Game Factory | Genesis Speakers | Headset | HeartBeat Catalyst | Microphone | Region converter cartridges | Mega Terminal | Nomad PowerBack | RF Unit | SCART Cable | Stereo Audio Video Cable | Team Player | Video Monitor Cable | Third-party AC adaptors | Third Party Accessories
Network services Sega Channel | Sega Game Toshokan | Mega Anser | Mega Net | TeleBradesco Residência | XB∀ND
Development tools ERX 308P | ERX 318P | Sprobe | SNASM68K | SNASM2 (Mega Drive) | SNASM2 (32X) | PSY-Q Development System (Mega Drive) | PSY-Q Development System (32X) | 32X CartDev | Sega Mars Development Aid System | Sega 32X Development Target
Unreleased Edge 16 | Floppy Disk Drive | Mega Play 1010 | Sega VR | Teleplay System | Video Jukebox
Sega Mega-CD
Topics Technical specifications | History | Magazine articles | Promotional material
Hardware Mega CD (Asia | North America | Western Europe | Eastern Europe | South America | Australasia | Africa)
Sega Multi-Mega (Asia | North America | Europe | South America | Australasia)
Wondermega | LaserActive | CSD-G1M
Misc. hardware CD BackUp RAM Cart | Mega-CD Karaoke | Pro CDX
Development tools SNASM Mega-CD | PsyQ Mega-CD SDK | PSY-Q CD Emulation System (Mega-CD)
Unreleased hardware Game Genie
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