4x Memory Card

4x Memory Card
Made for: Sega Dreamcast
Manufacturer: Sega
Release Date RRP Code JP 2000-12-14 ¥2,500 (2,625)2,500 (2,625) HKT-4100 US 2000 $29.9929.99

The Dreamcast 4x Memory Card, known as the Memory Card 4x (メモリーカード ４Ｘ) in Japan, is the official alternative to a VMU for saving on a Sega Dreamcast.

It is a device that holds 800 blocks of memory as opposed to the standard 200. The Dreamcast, however, can only understand memory cards with 200 blocks, so the data is divided into four. There is a switch on the unit used to access the other 600 blocks, and LEDs to inform the user which set of data they are currently using. Switching tricks the Dreamcast into thinking a different VMU has been inserted, but means you can only access 200 blocks at a time.

There are some slight annoyances - due to its design, if a user saves on the fourth set of save blocks, he or she will be required to press the button three times shortly after booting up the console - it was always default to the first set. There is also no screen or buttons, so you can't take advantage of VMU-specific features. On the plus side, it does not require its own battery and so will never "squeak" when the system is turned on.

There 4x Memory Card was rolled out across Japan and North America (including a Phantasy Star Online branded one for Japan). No official 4x Memory Cards made it to Europe but there are many unofficial alternatives.

Gallery

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  Phantasy Star Online model

Physical scans

Dreamcast, US
Cover

Dreamcast, JP
Cover

External links

• Sega of Japan catalogue page (Japanese)