In an era when game consoles were typically horizontal, the ”PC-FX” suddenly appeared just before Christmas in 1994, surprising game fans with its tower-style body that looked like a PC. Although this hardware released by NEC Home Electronics was born as the successor to the famous ”PC Engine,” its appearance already gave off an aura that it was not ”just a sequel.”

While the PlayStation and Sega Saturn were clashing with 3D graphics as their weapons, the PC-FX steered in a different direction. It adopted a strategy that was, in a sense, a contrarian approach: specializing in ”video playback.” This made it possible to incorporate direction into games that made them feel like watching an anime, building a unique presence to the point where it was said that ”PC-FX is the go-to for gal games.”

Fitting for such an anime-oriented direction, the PC-FX mascot character ”Rolfee” was designed by Kazuko Tadano, famous for ”Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon.” This character, which combined cuteness with the atmosphere of the era, was an existence that symbolized the world of the PC-FX. This commitment, showing they were serious about not just the games but also the mascot, is another reason why it captured and held the hearts of fans.

When talking about the PC-FX, games that move like anime are indispensable. In addition to original titles like ”Cutie Honey FX” and ”Kokuu Hyouryuu Nirgends,” animation was used abundantly in ports from other consoles such as ”Der Langrisser FX” and ”Power Dolls FX.” In particular, the launch title ”Battle Heat” left a lasting impression with its shocking presentation of fighting game characters moving via cel animation.

The symbolic genre of this console would undoubtedly be gal games. Popular titles of the time, such as ”Sotsugyou II Neo Generation,” ”Dokyusei 2,” and ”Can Can Bunny Extra DX,” appeared one after another. Some were 18+ titles, and that adult-oriented direction also secured a certain fan base. On the other hand, romance games for women like ”Angelique Special 2” were also developed, and a lineup that didn't lean solely toward male fans was part of the PC-FX's charm.

For anime lovers, ”Anime Freak FX” was unmissable. This was not just a game, but was provided in a unique format called a ”disc magazine” where you could enjoy anime information and voice actor specials via video. Including small mini-games and introductions to new releases, it offered a new kind of entertainment experience where you could use your game console as if you were watching a TV program.

The last software released was ”First Kiss Monogatari” in April 1998. With that, the story of the PC-FX came to a close. However, although its journey was short, its intense personality and unwavering stance of ”captivating with video” continue to remain in the memories of many fans today. In an era of mass production and mass consumption, this hardware that challenged the market with a focused breakthrough strategy can truly be called a ”masterpiece for those in the know.”