Sega Dreamcast Jump Pack

The Sega Dreamcast Jump Pack is Sega’s version of Nintendo’s Rumble Pack for the Nintendo 64. It works essentially the same (actually, exactly the same) and it closely resembles the Rumble Pack. Generally, it is plugged into the 2^nd slot (although it will still work in the 1st slot) of any standard Dreamcast controller and provides gamers with that real deal interactive gameplay! The N64’s Rumble Pack was often regarded as being a gimmick to boost sales, but since then all major home consoles have integrated vibration technology  into their controllers whether it is built in or plug-in. The Sega Dreamcast was the last major console to have this feature as a plug-in.

I always thought of the Jump Pack as a rip-off and I felt they could have done something a little more unique. But the more I think about it, the more I am divided in my own thoughts as to how cool this little device is. I love it because it adds some fun value to almost any game I play. The Sega Dreamcast controllers smartly include TWO slots in all of their controllers, allowing for multiple accessories to be plugged in. Unlike on the N64 where you could only plug in one accessory, on the Dreamcast controller, gamers can use a VMU and a Jump Pack at the same time. How incredible is that?!

The Jump Pack packs a pretty hard punch and definitely adds another dimension of play when playing ANY game on the Dreamcast… Well, the ones that are compatible with the Jump Pack, that is. One thing I have a hard time with and don’t like is that the vibration level cannot be controlled. It vibrates really hard mostly all of the time and can actually become quite a nuisance in situations where you might die a lot or get kicked a lot and all that nonsense. Some form of control would have been nice. Another major issue with the Jump Pack is that it is a tad bit on the heavy side. Its location on the back/top end of the Dreamcast controller causes it to pull down and away from your hands. This can cause some fatigue during long gaming sessions.

Hell, even the guns had a slot for it!

With all of the good and bad in a Jump Pack, it is a pretty cool add-on, even if it is hardly unique. There were many third-party companies who created knock-off Jump Packs made by Performance, Mad Katz, and numerous others. The Sega brand, as is standard, was superb to the others due to its strong casing and efficient output, but any version will give you the same quality punch.

These bad boys can generally be found for an inexpensive $3 to $10 depending on location and brand. It’s worth a pick up if you’re a big Dreamcast fan!!

Reviewed by NerdBerry