Expanding the ColecoVision to its full potential

The Super Game Module, or SGM, is an add-on created by Opcode Games to enhance the original ColecoVision and bring it closer to early eighties arcade hardware. It adds more memory, improved sound, and full compatibility with new advanced games without changing the original console.

Why it was created

The ColecoVision was one of the most powerful consoles of its time, but it shipped with only one kilobyte of RAM. This limited what developers could do, especially when trying to port arcade games accurately. Coleco had originally planned an official Super Game Module in 1983, but it was cancelled before release.

More than thirty years later, Opcode Games revived that idea. The goal was simple, allow ColecoVision to run games that look, sound, and play like real arcades.

What the SGM adds

The Super Game Module connects to the front expansion port of the ColecoVision and adds the following:

  • 32 KB of RAM
    This expands system memory from 1 KB to 32 KB, making arcade-sized games possible.
  • Enhanced sound
    The SGM uses a General Instrument AY-3-8910 sound chip. This chip was used in many arcade systems, MSX computers, Sega SC-3000, and early Atari ST machines. The result is richer music, multiple audio channels, and sound effects far beyond what the original ColecoVision could produce.
  • Full backward compatibility
    Original ColecoVision games still work normally. SGM games detect the module and make use of the extra hardware when available.

What it enables

With the SGM, developers can create games that were impossible on stock hardware. Some examples include:

  • Larger levels and arcade-accurate graphics
  • Better animation, smooth scrolling, and more sprites
  • Richer sound effects and music
  • Save data and high score support in compatible cartridges

Over one hundred SGM-enhanced games have been released or are in development, including titles like Pac-Man DX, Penguin Adventure, Gradius, Time Pilot, Popeye, and Lady Bug Arcade.

Compatibility

  • Works with original ColecoVision consoles
  • Compatible with most ColecoVision clones that include the front expansion port
  • Does not modify or open the console
  • Simply plug in and play

Legacy and impact

Since its debut in 2012, more than three thousand Super Game Modules have been sold worldwide. It helped revive the ColecoVision homebrew scene and set a new standard for high quality releases on the system. Many modern ColecoVision developers now design their games with the SGM in mind.

The SGM was also the inspiration for newer hardware projects like the upcoming SGM2 and the Super Game Cartridge format, which add even more capabilities.

In short

The Super Game Module brings the ColecoVision closer to the arcade experience. More memory, better sound, no modifications, and a library of advanced games built to use it. It is one of the most important add-ons ever created for the system.