The Video Game Console Library - Pioneer LaserActive

	Pioneer LaserActive
	HANDS ON REVIEW by Marriott_Guy DW FACTS by Dark Watcher
	Page content, development and design by Marriott_Guy

Developer	Manufacturer	Release Date	Country(s)	Initial Price	Model Number	Game Releases	Overall Rating
Pioneer Electronics	Pioneer Electronics	20-Aug-93	Japan, USA	$970 USD	CLD-A100	31	7.0
Ratings	Reviews	Pictures\Media	Specs\Manuals	Games\Emulation	Models	Clones	Links

Ratings
Consoles are rated based upon the available technology at the time of its release. Ratings based upon a 10 point scale (10 being excellent\very rare).
Console Design (appearance, functionality)	06
Console Durability (sturdy or frail and fragile)	06
Controllers (design, response, feel, use)	08
Graphics (graphical capability and presentation)	09
Audio (sound, music, speech, effects)	09
Media (game media format, design, durability)	08
Packaging (appeal, durability of packaging)	07
Game Library (quality, quantity of game library)	09
Innovations (technological industrial strides)	07
Gamer Value (good investment for the gamer?)	01
Collector Value (good collector investment?)	08
Games Rarity (general availability of games)	08
Console Rarity (general availability of a system)	08

Reviews

DW FACTS
- by Dark Watcher

What do you call a machine that lets you play music, games, karaoke, interactive software and over 7,500 movies with the high-quality picture available? A $2000+ technical masterpiece that only the wealthy could afford.

The Pioneer LaserActive was a rare, expensive (unit alone $700), but interesting game playing machine. It was debuted to compete against the 3DO in October of 1993. It provided the ability to play games on Laserdiscs (The precursor to the DVD).

The LaserActive used the MPEG-1 video standard for sharp / smooth FMV. It was capable of running popular arcade Laserdisc titles such as Dragon's Lair and Space Ace.

Also available for the unit was a Laser Karaoke pack that retailed for $350. It came with a miniature mixer and microphone that could play over 250 titles.

So how does this machine fit into the world of video game consoles? The Pioneer LaserActive used add-on devices called LD-ROM packs. Each pack retailed from $400 to $600 dollars. The first pack released was the Mega-LD pack that was developed in conjunction with Sega Enterprises. This pack allowed you to play 8 and 12-inch LaserActive Mega-LD disks, Sega CDs, Genesis carts, and CD+G discs. The pack came with the Mega-LD game: Pyramid Patrol, and the four-in-one game CD that contained Revenge of Shinobi, Golden Axe, Streets of Rage and Columns.

The LD-ROM2 pack was developed in conjunction with NEC Home Electronics. This pack could play 8 and 12-inch LaserActive LD-ROM2 discs, NEC CD-ROM2 discs, Super CD discs, HuCard games, and CD+G discs. The package came with Econosaurus and the 4-in-1 CD that contained Gate of Thunder, Bonk's Adventure, Bonk's Revenge and Bomberman. The only other software known to be released for each of the packs were Space Berserker, and High Roller for the Mega-LD, Vajra, and Manhattan Requiem for the LD-ROM2.

The LaserActive has garnered a cult following, and goes down as one of the most expensive console hybrid in recent history.

HANDS ON REVIEW
- by Marriott_Guy (13-Mar-08)

As stated in previous reviews, the drive for many hardware manufacturers was all about producing an all-inclusive multimedia device. In 1993, Pioneer entered the foray with the release of the LaserActive. Competing directly with Panasonic (3DO) and the Philips (CD-i), Pioneer upped the ante in this genre by basing their system on Laserdisc technology (the precursor to the DVD format). At the time, the LaserActive was the closest system to deliver a product that did meet most of the multimedia demands of the consumer - movies, games, karaoke, music, edutainment - all presented in the best audio\video quality available. The system has another feather in its cap - it was one of the very few truly multi-platform units released (ala Dina Two-In-One). There were really only three requirements to purchase one of the beauties in 1993 - a forklift, a large amount of disposable income and an IQ under 70. We'll take a look at these items in the same order.

Pioneer LaserActive

Describing the physical characteristics of Pioneer LaserActive can be summed up in one word - a behemoth. This system is definitely one of the largest video game console ever released (second only to the RDI Halcyon). Weighing in at 25 lbs and measuring 6" H x 17" W x 15" D, this beast truly stands out in any display. A durable hard plastic front casing elegantly displays the various system controls. The chassis itself is made of sturdy steel with multiple air vents to allow plenty of ventilation (definitely required when firing up this system). The somewhat conservative, though modern, facing features large soft-button controls, two (2) media trays (one for Laserdiscs, the other for standard CDs) and a large, cavernous rectangular hole to the bottom left - the modular housing.

The LaserActive could not play games as a stand alone system - it requires expansion modules called PAC units. The following is a list of the modules that were released (US release \ Japan release) and their respective description:

Sega PAC (PAC-S10 \ PAC-S1) : Allows play of any Sega Genesis, Sega CD, Mega LDs (specifically designed Sega games release on the Laserdisc format) games and CD+G discs. Formally known as the Mega-LD pack.
NEC PAC (PAC-N10 \ PAC-N1) : Allows play of and NEC CD-ROM2\Super CD\HuCards, Mega LD-ROM2 discs (specifically designed NEC games released on the Laserdisc format) games, along with supporting CD+G discs.
Karaoke PAC (PAC-K10 \ PAC-K1) : Supports play of Laserkaraoke titles
Computer Interface PAC (PAC-PC1) : Allowed remote control of the LaserActive via a PC or Mac computer

Those were the main modules released. A pack for 3D Goggles and an adaptor were also sold for this system, but I do not have these and know very little about them.

The modules slide into the system on the left hand, bottom side of the main LaserActive system. The power must be turned off when switching out expansion PACs. There is a manual eject button that resides on the front of the unit that facilitates this function. Inserting modules into the system is rather delicate, or so it feels. They do snap into place firmly, but the weight alone of the PAC units tends to make one a bit cautious while doing so. The two game PACs came with the appropriate, Pioneer logo-stamped game controller (Sega\NEC).

LaserActive logo

With the respective module (Sega\NEC), games were presented identically to their parent system. The specifically designed Laserdisc games for each system were graphically superior but lack the control delivered on similar games on the original systems. Also, releases on the Laserdisc format (LD-ROMs) are high maintenance. The discs are huge (12" in diameter) and about 7 times as thick as a standard CD - this equates to a higher drop/scratch rate when simply inserting a disc into the system for play. There were around 20 LD-ROM game releases for the Sega PAC module; 9 for the NEC PAC.

Earlier I mentioned that one had to have a great deal of disposable income as a requirement to be able to purchase the LaserActive back in 1993. The going price at the time - $970 USD (roughly $2,000 in today's dollars)! Now, bear with me, this price would only net you a system that could play movies/music - forget about playing games. The Sega or NEC PAC expansion pack will cost another $600 - each! Feel like singing along to your favorite tune and controlling your LaserActive from your PC - tack on another $700 ($350 each). All told, to be able to enjoy your existing Sega and NEC library, along with playing American Idol by yourself and controlling your new purchase via PC (who wants to do this anyway) would have cost you roughly $2,900 in 1993 ($4,500 in today's dollars). If you wanted any of the slick LD-ROM games you had to fork over another $120 per game! Obviously, this alienated 99% of the buying public. Why buy one of these when you could collectively buy the components you really wanted for a lot less? That question can only be answered by those with the IQ under 70 or had so much throwaway money that it didn't really matter. The Pioneer LaserActive is the second highest priced video game console of all time (once again, right behind the RDI Halcyon).

The Pioneer LaserActive is a cool system to own, but only for the true console collector. The console initially failed on a number of levels - pricing, target audience and lack of promotion. Overall shipping prices are high due to the weight and dimensions of this system. The US version is more rare compared to the model released in Japan (both are identical in terms of technology). A CIB unit will cost you around $225 for the Japanese model (plus an additional $160 S/H if coming from Japan), and $300 or so for a US model.

Pioneer's Official US Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PIONEER'S LASERACTIVE ARRIVES, SETTING NEW STANDARDS FOR INTERACTIVE HOME ENTERTAINMENT

NEW YORK, September 13, 1993 -- Marking its entry into the multimedia and videogame arena, Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. announces the retail launch of LaserActive -- the industry's first multi-platform system to combine high-quality full motion video, digital sound and interactive capabilities.

More than a sophisticated alternative to CD-ROM based systems, LaserActive utilizes superior quality analog video that is the hallmark of the LaserDisc format, and a high density data storage capacity to provide consumers with the most advanced and versatile interactive entertainment system on the market today.

Available October 1, LaserActive will be sold through national and specialty retailers in New York, Chicago, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Los Angeles, Miami and San Francisco. Pioneer will offer an initial selection of Mega LD and LD-ROM2 titles including I Will, Pyramid Patrol, Econosaurus and The Great Pyramid. Eight (or ten) additional titles are scheduled for release in November and December of this year.

"LaserActive offers an unprecedented level of interactive performance", said Sho Yamada, president and CEO of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "It achieves the highest quality full motion interactive video possible and realizes the potential for future compatibility with other multimedia formats. Based on its future viability, LaserActive will not only expand the the LaserDisc business, but will create an industry-wide demand for more sophisticated interactive home entertainment."

Hardware

The system, which consists of a main unit (a combination LaserDisc/CD player), the CLD-A100, and one of three optional control packs, was developed in technical cooperation with SEGA Enterprises and NEC Home Electronics. The PAC-S10, developed in conjunction with SEGA Enterprises, will enable users to play eight- and 12-inch LaserActive Mega LD discs, in addition to existing SEGA CDs and Genesis ROM cartridges, and standard CD+G discs.

The PAC-N10, developed in conjunction with NEC Home Electronics, will allow consumers to play eight- and 12-inch LaserActive LD-ROM discs, as well as current Turbo Graphx CD-ROM discs and game cartridges and CD+G discs. The PAC-K1 will provide compatibility with over 200 available LaserKaraoke titles.

Designed to take full advantage of existing software libraries including more than 50,000 CDs, 7,500 movie titles, xxx videogames and 2,000 LaserKaraoke hit songs, LaserActive extends the utility and performance level of a multimedia product beyond current competing formats.

"Given the high degree of software compatibility and tangible consumer benefits, we're confident about LaserActive's market acceptance," said Mike Fidler, senior vice president of Pioneer's home electronics marketing division.

"The emergence of digital based interactive systems, with limited and non-compatible specifications, has created a lot of confusion at both the retail and consumer level. LaserActive, which is based on LaserDisc technology, offers consumers a familiar product with advanced performance capabilities, an existing software base and a strong dealer support network."

Software

LaserActive offers not only the superior sound and picture quality of LaserDisc, but the necessary storage for advanced, interactive software applications. Existing interactive formats digitally store an application program plus images, sound and other data within a 540 megabyte area. LaserActive consists of the same 540 megabyte area, plus a separate 60-minute analog image and FM audio storage area, which allows the 540 megabyte area to be used exclusively for interactive data capabilities.

Due to the use of existing photographic imagery, LaserActive software can be easily produced without the need for digitization. The LaserActive Mega LD authoring system combines commercially available equipment (including a personal computer, in-circuit emulator, Pioneer's rewriteable video disc recorder and interface board) and a SEGA CD authoring system, enabling developers to integrate both analog and digital information. This production capability creates an abundance of software possibilities and contributes to budget, time and manpower savings for developers and multimedia publishers.

Software Development

Pioneer is currently discussing software development and production opportunities with leading U.S. multimedia developers including the New Learning Project, Virgin Games, Digital Pictures and SEGA of America. Additionally, the company plans to establish a special division at its headquarters in Long Beach, Calif., that will be responsible for LaserActive software development in the United States.

One of the division's responsibilities will be to organize a "Multimedia Creators Network," which will consist of individual computer graphic experts, musicians, film producers, directors and academic researchers, who have expressed interest in developing LaserActive software. This U.S.-based Network will be modeled after the Multimedia Creators Network in Japan, recently established by Pioneer Electronic Corp.

SEGA Enterprises and NEC's Home Electronics division will grant respective licenses for their MEGA LD and LD-ROM formats. Pioneer will grant licenses for both formats, while all three companies will continue to encourage LaserActive software development by third party domestic and foreign collaborators.

Advertising and Promotions

To coincide with the market introduction, Pioneer will implement a national print advertising campaign targeting high-profile consumer and industry publications, as well as major metropolitan newspapers within each market. Direct mail and in-store point-of-purchase materials will be used to reinforce the versatility and superior performance of LaserActive among consumer and retail audiences. Pioneer also will provide regional advertising and dealer event support in the major markets.

Product Availability

The LaserActive player and control packs will be available in October 1993 at the following suggested retail prices:

CLD-A100 ($970), PAC-S10 ($600), PAC-N10 ($600), PAC-K1 ($350)

LaserActive software will retail for $120 per title.

Pictures & Media

Various picture\media for this console. Click pictures to enlarge.

Pioneer LaserActive - Box Front

Pioneer LaserActive - PAC-S10 Unit (Sega)

Pioneer LaserActive - Box Back

Pioneer LaserActive - Promo Ad 1

Pioneer LaserActive - Promo Ad 2

Pioneer LaserActive - Promo Ad 3

Pioneer LaserActive - Promo Ad 4

Pioneer LaserActive - Promo Ad 5

Pioneer LaserActive - Promo Ad 6

PAC-S10 (Sega)

Pioneer LaserActive Games Promo Ad

PAC-N10 (NEC)

GOL-1 3D Goggles - Front

Pioneer LaserActive GOL-1 3D Goggles (courtesy CyberRoach.com)

Pioneer LaserActive 3D Goggles Promo Ad

Pioneer LaserActive GOL-1 3D Goggles Promo

GOL-1 3D Goggles - Back

Some lucky guy's CIB LaserActive Hardware Collection. That is just pure heaven!

Pioneer LaserActive collection

Picture credits unknown. If this is your collection, let me know so I can give you appropriate credit!

Specs & Manuals

For the hardware enthusiasts out there - all the detail you\we love.

Processor Type	Processor Speed	Other Processor Information	RAM \ Video RAM
Unknown	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown
Screen Resolution	Color Palette	Polygons \ Sprites	Audio
560 x 480	16.7M colors	Unknown	Stereo 16 bit 44 kHz sampled output\ input
Media Format	Media Capacity	Games Released	Other Supported Formats
Laserdisc (LD-ROM)	30-60 Minutes per side / 540 MB data	31 (LD-ROM games)	Laserdisc, Audio CD; CD+G, Sega CD\carts, NEC Super CD\Huecards
Internal Storage	External\Removable Storage	Game Controllers	Other Game \ Peripheral Devices
None	None	Remote control (standard controllers included with PAC Units)	3D Goggles
Controller Ports	Network Ports	Other Ports	Audio \ Video
Two (2) \ PAC Unit	None	None	Composite, Optical Audio Out
Power Supply - Internal	Other Outputs	Other Details \ Notes
120V, 60Hz	None	PAC Unit(s) required for Sega Genesis\CD or NEC Super CD\Huecard compatibility.
Manuals
Pioneer LaserActive Owners Manual (PDF) - 10.7 MB (courtesy of CyberRoach.com) Pioneer PAC-S10 Owners Manual (PDF) - 0.82 MB + PAC-S10 Errata (JPG) (courtesy of M^cKie1) Pioneer PAC-S10 Service Manual (PDF) - 0.86 MB (courtesy of M^cKie1) Pioneer PAC-N10 Owners Manual (PDF) - 0.76 MB (courtesy of M^cKie1)

Games & Emulation

Games, media format, emulators and screen shots for titles released on this system.

LaserActive Time Gal

Software for the Pioneer LaserActive was distributed on Laserdiscs. The titles are packaged in highly detailed jackets, almost identical in size to those found in vinyl music recordings. This discs are HUGE in size and rather fragile. Take care when handling these beasts. An example of a complete game is shown to the right.

There are a number of notable games for this system, with my favorites being Varja 2, Pyramid Patrol, Rocket Coaster and Hi-Roller Battle. The Pioneer LaserActive also had a few Idol and adult titles released in Japan during its lifespan. Screen shots are provided for these but are of the PG-13 nature to keep our site accessible to all.

One of the most interesting titles is Zapping Satsui, an interactive movie which allows you to switch between vantage points of the main characters on the fly. During certain times during this game, you will have a split-screen displaying the current happenings from the perspective of multiple characters. Definitely a unique oddity and one to keep an eye out for.

Exclusive games and software for this system are somewhat pricey. The nice thing is that the LaserActive system is region free. This is fine if you plan on purchasing some shooter like Pyramid Patrol, but some titles like J.B. Harold: Blue Chicago Blues rely heavily upon dialog (English or Japanese).

Complete Library of Pioneer LaserActive Games

Pioneer LaserActive Title Screens

Pioneer LaserActive Game Screenshots

3D Museum

Akuma no Shinban

Angel Mate

Back to the Edo

Don Quixote

Dora Dora Paradise

Dr. Paolo no Totteoki Video

Ghost Rush!

Goku

Great Pyramid

Hi-Roller Battle

Hyperion

I WILL: The Story of London

J.B. Harold: Blue Chicago Blues

J.B. Harold: Manhattan Requiem

Melon Brains

Pretty Illusion Collection: Minayo Watanabe

Pretty Illusion Collection: Yuko Sakaki

Pyramid Patrol

Quiz Econosaurus

Road Prosecutor

Rocket Coaster

Space Berserker

Time Gal

Triad Stone

Varja

Varja 2

Virtual Cameraman

Virtual Cameraman 2

Zapping Satsui

Third Party Emulators
Program	Website	Description
DAPHNE	http://www.daphne-emu.com	Great emulator capable of running most LD games.

Models

Additional authorized releases for this console.

No additional models were released for this system - the US and Japan version are identical and game format is interchangeable (no region lock).

Clones

Non-licensed releases (clones).

NEC PCE-LD1

NEC PCE-LD1 LaserActive

Links

Highly recommended additional sites\resources for this system.

Name	Website	Description
LaserDisc UK Web Site	http://www.laserdiscarchive.co.uk...cld-a100.htm	The resource for everything on Laser Discs\gaming
CyberRoach.com	http://www.cyberroach.com/.../laser.htm	Excellent site for the LaserActive!!

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Page last updated 03-Feb-2012

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