Generation NEX FAQ - NES Clone Console Questions, Compatibility & Troubleshooting
Original FAQ document from Messiah Entertainment (2005-2006)
General Questions
What is the Generation NEX?
The Generation NEX is a premium NES/Famicom clone console manufactured by Messiah Entertainment. It plays original NES and Famicom game cartridges and comes with wireless 2.4GHz controllers. Released in December 2005, it was designed to be the definitive way to play classic NES games.
Is the Generation NEX legal?
Yes. The Generation NEX uses a "NES-on-a-Chip" (NOAC) design that is a clean-room implementation, not a copy of Nintendo's original hardware. It is designed to play your legally-owned game cartridges. Nintendo's patents on the original NES hardware have expired.
What's included in the box?
• Generation NEX console
• 2x Wireless 2.4GHz controllers
• Wireless receiver dongle
• 60-to-72 pin Famicom adapter
• AC power adapter
• A/V cables (composite + S-Video)
• User manual
What was the original price?
The Generation NEX retailed for $59.99 USD at launch in December 2005.
Compatibility
What games does the Generation NEX play?
The Generation NEX plays both NES (72-pin) and Famicom (60-pin) cartridges. Compatibility is approximately 95% of the licensed NES library. See the full compatibility list.
Does it play Famicom games?
Yes! The Generation NEX includes a 60-to-72 pin adapter that allows you to play original Famicom cartridges directly. Simply insert the adapter into the cartridge slot.
Why don't Zapper games work?
The NES Zapper light gun relies on CRT television technology to function. Modern LCD, LED, and plasma TVs do not work with the Zapper due to different display timing. This is a limitation of modern televisions, not the Generation NEX.
What about games with special audio chips?
Some Japanese Famicom games (like Castlevania III and some Konami titles) use expansion audio chips like the VRC6, VRC7, or N163. The Generation NEX plays these games but may not reproduce the enhanced audio exactly as intended.
Controllers
How far do the wireless controllers work?
The wireless controllers have a range of approximately 30 feet (10 meters) with clear line of sight. Walls and obstacles may reduce range.
What batteries do the controllers use?
Each wireless controller uses 2x AAA batteries. Battery life is approximately 40-60 hours of gameplay depending on usage.
Can I use original NES controllers?
Yes! The Generation NEX has two standard NES controller ports on the front. You can use original NES controllers, third-party wired controllers, and accessories like the NES Advantage and NES Max.
Can I buy additional wireless controllers?
Additional wireless controllers were available for purchase separately from Messiah Entertainment. The receiver supports pairing with multiple controllers.
Technical Specifications
What video outputs are available?
The Generation NEX provides composite video and S-Video outputs. S-Video offers noticeably sharper image quality on compatible displays.
Is audio mono or stereo?
Audio output is stereo through the A/V cables. The original NES produced mono audio, but the Generation NEX outputs to both channels for stereo systems.
What power supply does it use?
The Generation NEX uses an included AC adapter (9V DC). It is different from the original NES power supply and should only be used with the included adapter.
Troubleshooting
My game won't start. What should I do?
1. Remove the cartridge and clean the contacts with isopropyl alcohol
2. Ensure the cartridge is fully inserted
3. Try the game a few times - some older cartridges need multiple attempts
4. Check the compatibility list to verify the game is supported
The wireless controller isn't responding
1. Check that batteries are installed correctly and have charge
2. Ensure the wireless receiver is plugged into a controller port
3. Move closer to the console to test range
4. Try re-syncing the controller with the receiver
I see graphical glitches in some games
Some games may exhibit minor graphical differences from the original NES. This is due to slight timing differences in the NOAC chip. These issues are typically cosmetic and don't affect gameplay.