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Nelkano Emulator for Android
ExperimentalSega · 1986 / 1990

Master System and Game Gear

Sega's answer to Nintendo. Powerful and full of character.

Files:.sms.gg
Both systems can run compatible titles. Some games may have graphical, audio or gameplay issues.

What is Master System / GG?

Sega Master System (1986) was Sega's answer to the NES, with somewhat more powerful hardware and huge success in Europe and Brazil. Game Gear (1990) was its portable counterpart, with a color screen while Game Boy was still monochrome. Nelkano groups both under one system page.

What you can do today

  • Load Master System games in .sms format and Game Gear games in .gg format.
  • Play with touch controls or an Android-compatible controller.
  • Save and load states to resume your game.
  • Keep the progress of games that include a save feature.

Known limitations

  • Compatibility does not cover the entire library: some titles may have graphical errors, audio issues or crashes.

Getting started with Master System / GG

  1. Prepare your game

    You need a Master System .sms file or a Game Gear .gg file you have permission to use, such as a homebrew game distributed by its author.

  2. Add it to Nelkano

    Open the library, tap the + button and select the game file. Nelkano identifies the system and adds it to your library.

  3. Open the game and start playing

    Select the game in your library. You can use the on-screen buttons or an Android-compatible controller. Controls include buttons 1 and 2, plus Pause on Master System or Start on Game Gear.

Frequently asked questions about Master System / GG

Which file type belongs to each console?

The .sms extension is used for Master System and .gg for Game Gear. Nelkano identifies them during import and keeps each system's controls and saves separate.

Can I save even if the original game does not support it?

Yes. Nelkano save states let you save and restore your session on both systems, even if the original game has no save option.

Do all games work?

No. Some games are compatible, while others still have issues. A title starting successfully does not guarantee that it will work correctly throughout the game.