Which Sega Saturn Game Needs Two Consoles for Multiplayer

This article examines the innovative networking capabilities of the Sega Saturn era, highlighting a specific game renowned for its expansive local multiplayer. Readers will discover the title that demanded a dual-console setup to unlock its full competitive potential, along with an explanation of the hardware peripherals involved in this rare configuration.

The Sega Saturn title that featured this unique multiplayer mode is Saturn Bomberman. Released in 1997 by Hudson Soft, this game is celebrated not only for its tight gameplay mechanics but also for pushing the hardware beyond its standard limitations. While most console games of the generation relied on split-screen for local competition, Saturn Bomberman offered a mode that allowed up to ten players to compete simultaneously in a single match.

Achieving this ten-player battlefield required a complex hardware arrangement that was uncommon for home consoles at the time. To support more than the standard two controllers, players needed the Saturn multitap peripheral, which expanded the controller ports on a single unit. However, since one Saturn console could only support a maximum of six players even with multitaps, linking two separate Sega Saturn consoles was necessary to reach the full ten-player count. This setup required two copies of the game, two consoles, two television sets, and the official link cable to synchronize the action between the machines.

This ambitious feature solidified Saturn Bomberman as a legendary title among retro gaming enthusiasts. The ability to host such a large local party was technically impressive and provided a chaotic, social experience that few other games could match. Although the requirement for multiple consoles and peripherals made it a high-barrier entry for casual players, the mode remains a standout example of the Sega Saturn’s unique architecture and the developer’s commitment to maximizing multiplayer potential.