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Hackaday

It’s Linux, on a Sega Megadrive

A developer has successfully run a version of Linux on a Sega Megadrive console from the early 1990s, using the latest mainline kernel compiled for the Motorola 68000 processor without a memory management unit. The system runs from an SD card connected to a modern storage peripheral and demonstrates the continued relevance of the 68000 architecture in 2026. This project highlights the ongoing interest in retro hardware and the adaptability of Linux, even on outdated systems.

What happened

A version of Linux has been successfully run on a Sega Megadrive, using an SD card and the original hardware.

Why it matters

This shows how far retro hardware can be pushed, and highlights the continued relevance of older chip architectures in modern computing.

Why it belongs here

It inspires curiosity and creativity, proving that even old technology can be repurposed for new, meaningful projects.

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