elevator action returns sega saturn 2 player netplay 60fps net worth
Elevator Action Returns: Sega Saturn 2 Player Netplay, 60 FPS Performance & Collector’s Value
Key Takeaways
- No Native 60 FPS Netplay on Original Hardware: E. A. R. runs at 30 FPS on the Sega Saturn and uses local co-op; online netplay requires emulation with lag compensation or modern ports.
- Collector Value Is Modest: Complete-in-box (CIB) copies of the Saturn version typically range from $30–$70, with rare pre-owned carts commanding a slight premium due to low production numbers.
- Best 2-Player Experience: Use emulator (KronosDS/Yabause/BlueMSX alternatives) with low-latency input devices, or switch to the Genesis/Sega CD version which has faster frame pacing and simpler netcode.
Why Players Struggle with E. A. R. Netplay and Frame Rates
Many retro enthusiasts seek a fast, responsive 2-player experience for Elevator Action Returns (EA R) on the Sega Saturn. Three core pain points dominate search queries: broken or laggy online co-op, inconsistent frame rates, and unclear resale value.
The 60 FPS Myth
Despite marketing claims of "fast-scrolling arcade action," E. A. R. on Saturn runs at a locked 30 FPS in most regions, with occasional frame skips during heavy sprite overlap. The Genesis version achieves a steady 60 FPS but lacks the Saturn’s color depth and soundtrack. There is no hardware-level 60 FPS mode for the Saturn disc version.
Netplay Realities
The Saturn had no built-in internet capability. "Netplay" refers to modern emulation setups using Kega Fusion, PicoDrive, or PC emulators with lockstep networking. This introduces 200–800ms latency, breaking the tight 2-player timing required for elevator dodging. For true low-latency 2-player play, LAN or local co-op remains superior.
Collector’s Net Worth
The term "net worth" in this context refers to resale value. Due to the Saturn’s niche North American presence (launched 1996, discontinued 1998) and E. A. R.’s modest sales (~50k units in NTSC-U region), the title is not highly collectible. Condition, region, and CIB status drive pricing more than the game itself.
Platform Comparison: 2-Player Performance & Value
| Platform | Frame Rate | 2-Player Method | Netplay Viability | CIB Retail Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sega Saturn (Disc) | 30 FPS (locked) | Local Co-op (2 controllers) | Emulator only; high latency | $30–$70 |
| Sega Genesis/Mega Drive | 60 FPS (stable) | Local Co-op (2 controllers) | None (no online) | $25–$45 |
| Sega CD (Add-on) | 60 FPS (enhanced visuals) | Local Co-op | None (no online) | $40–$80 (disc + add-on) |
| PC (Emulated) | 60–240 FPS (upscalable) | LAN / Lockstep Online | High latency unless dedicated server | N/A (ROM) |
Pre-Purchase & Setup Checklist
- Verify region: NTSC-U copies have English text; Japanese imports require a PAL/NTSC modded Saturn or emulator.
- Check disc label for "Elevator Action Returns" vs. the original "Elevator Action" (do not confuse with the 1983 arcade original).
- Test both controller ports before buying—2-player co-op requires two working 3-button or 6-button Saturn pads.
- If using emulation: Use PicoDrive or Kega Fusion with a low-latency network adapter; avoid Wi-Fi for competitive play.
- Inspect case for warping and disc for laser damage before purchasing CIB copies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does E. A. R. on Saturn support true online 2-player netplay?
No. The Sega Saturn had no native internet hardware. All "netplay" is achieved through emulators running on PC or modern consoles with lockstep networking. This adds significant input lag, making precise elevator-dodging mechanics feel unresponsive. For competitive 2-player play, local co-op or dedicated LAN setups are strongly recommended over online netplay.
Can I force E. A. R. on Saturn to run at 60 FPS using cheat devices?
No. The game’s engine is hard-coded to 30 FPS in the Saturn’s BIOS layer. Cheat devices like Action Replay or GameShark can alter health scores or unlock extras, but they cannot change the render pipeline’s frame budget. Attempting to modify the disc image for 60 FPS causes audio-video desync and crashes. The Genesis/Sega CD versions are the only platforms with native 60 FPS pacing.
Is a complete-in-box E. A. R. Saturn disc worth saving for investment?
Not as a pure investment. The game sold moderately in Japan and poorly in North America. While CIB copies hold value better than loose discs, the ceiling is typically under $100 unless the disc is graded as NM (Near Mint) with a rare Japanese box art variant. Most collectors purchase it for gameplay nostalgia rather than resale appreciation. If you already own the Genesis version, the Saturn’s enhanced audio and visuals justify the $30–$70 premium for completeness, not for investment returns.