“This is the greatest ColecoVision Video Game System you will ever need!”
The CollectorVision Phoenix™ is an open-source FPGA-based ColecoVision™ compatible video game system that plays virtually ALL ColecoVision game cartridges. As the first true ColecoVision FPGA console, the Phoenix recreates the original hardware at the gate level using a Field Programmable Gate Array — not software emulation — ensuring 100% accurate compatibility with the original system.
Unlike software emulators, an FPGA recreates the actual digital circuits of the original ColecoVision hardware in a programmable chip. This means games run exactly as they would on original hardware — with perfect timing, accurate sound, and no compatibility compromises. The system can also replicate other platforms such as the Atari 2600 by loading different hardware configuration files called cores.
The Phoenix features two built-in cores (ColecoVision and Atari 2600), with room for a total of 30 core slots. It includes built-in Opcode SGM (Super Game Module) compatibility and F18A Video Enhancement, delivering an experience that surpasses the original ColecoVision in picture quality and capabilities while maintaining faithful hardware-level accuracy.
Designed and manufactured by CollectorVision Games Inc., the Phoenix was first released in August 2019 (Early Access) with non-early access units shipping in October 2019. The system is available in two color variants: the standard black model styled after the original ColecoVision, and a limited grey edition inspired by the Coleco ADAM computer.
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FPGA Hardware
Xilinx Spartan-6 LX16 FPGA recreates ColecoVision circuits at the gate level. Not emulation — true hardware recreation.
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HDMI Output
Crisp 640×480p digital output via HDMI. Clean, upscaled 4:3 retro signal optimized for modern displays.
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Original Cart Slot
Accepts all original ColecoVision game cartridges directly. Also loads ROMs from the built-in SD card slot.
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SGM Built-In
Opcode Super Game Module compatibility included — plays SGM-enhanced games without additional hardware.
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F18A Enhanced Video
Eliminates sprite flicker, expanded color palette of 4,096 colors, hardware scrolling, and improved graphics modes.
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30 Core Slots
Open-source FPGA supports multiple system cores. ColecoVision and Atari 2600 built-in, with 28 slots for future cores.
The Phoenix includes a built-in F18A Video Display Processor, an enhanced replacement for the original TMS9928A VDP used in the ColecoVision. The F18A provides backward-compatible TMS9928A functionality along with significant enhancements:
Standard ColecoVision Mode
16 fixed colors (original TMS9928A palette)
256 × 192 pixel resolution
32 sprites total, 4 per scanline
100% compatible with original ColecoVision games
F18A Enhanced Mode
64 programmable 12-bit color registers (4,096 colors)
Expanded color palette for individual tiles and sprites
80-column text mode
HDMI Output Details
The Phoenix outputs a 640×480p signal at 59.94Hz via HDMI. The native ColecoVision resolution of 256×192 pixels (49,152 pixels) is scaled 2× to 512×384, then padded with borders to fill the 640×480 VGA frame (307,200 pixels). This provides a sharp, clean digital signal that preserves the original 4:3 aspect ratio. Check your display’s picture size settings and use a good quality HDMI 2.0 cable for best results. Some TVs may have compatibility issues with the 640×480p signal — if you experience no picture, try a different display.
Sound System
The Phoenix includes three layers of sound hardware, providing full backward compatibility plus enhanced audio capabilities for new homebrew games:
SN76489 (Standard)
Original ColecoVision sound chip — 3 tone channels + 1 noise channel. Used by all standard ColecoVision games.
AY-3-8910 (SGM)
Super Game Module sound chip — adds 3 additional tone channels + 1 noise channel with stereo capability. Used by SGM-enhanced games. The Phoenix implements this via the Courtney chip’s legacy mode.
SEX7264 “Courtney” WSG
Custom Wavetable Sound Generator with two operating modes. Native mode: wavetable synthesis (same technology as Konami SCC, Namco Pac-Man, NEC PC Engine, Waldorf PPG Wave), extended 8-bit noise frequency, stereo positioning, and direct DAC mode for clean 8-bit PCM sample replay. Legacy mode: 100% binary-compatible with the AY-3-8910 series. Enables enhanced lo-fi speech synthesis and digital audio.
Audio Output Note
All audio is output digitally via HDMI only — there are no analog audio outputs on the Phoenix. If you need to extract audio separately (e.g. for external speakers or an arcade cabinet), you will need an HDMI audio extractor device.
CONSOLE EDITIONS
The Phoenix was produced in two production runs and is available in two color variants. Both editions share identical internal hardware and specifications.
Standard Black Edition
Styled after the original 1982 ColecoVision console. Black injection-molded casing with the classic ColecoVision aesthetic. Available in both 1st and 2nd production runs.
Limited ADAM Grey Edition
Styled after the Coleco ADAM computer. Grey injection-molded casing (molded in ADAM color, not painted). Limited availability — produced in smaller quantities than the standard edition.
Production Runs
1st Run (2019): Early Access Beta units shipped August 2019; standard units shipped October 2019. Nearly 500 units sold in the first run. 2nd Run (2020+): Required a minimum of 50 pre-orders before production. 2nd Run consoles ship with the latest firmware pre-installed — no updates needed. The 2nd run was announced as the final production batch.
PORTS & CONNECTIONS
Front Panel
2× DB-9 Controller Ports (Player 1 & Player 2) — original ColecoVision/Atari compatible
ColecoVision Cartridge Slot
Micro SD Card Slot (for firmware updates, ROM loading, and core installation)
Rear Panel
HDMI Output Port (with ESD protection chip)
12V DC Power Input
DB-25 Expansion Port (not same pinout as original ColecoVision expansion port)
Right Side Panel
SNES/SFC Controller Port (NTT Data compatible)
Top Panel
Power Button
Reset Button
PS/2 Keyboard Port
Expansion Port Important Notes
The DB-25 expansion port on the Phoenix is NOT the same pinout as the original ColecoVision expansion port. Original ColecoVision Expansion Modules (#1 Atari Adapter, #3 ADAM) will not work with the Phoenix. The Phoenix expansion port provides +5V, +3.3V, GND, and 21 FPGA I/O pin access, enabling future custom expansion hardware.
CONTROLLER COMPATIBILITY
The Phoenix supports a wide range of controllers through its DB-9 ports, SNES port, and PS/2 keyboard port. All three input methods are active simultaneously for Player 1, allowing you to keep an original ColecoVision controller plugged in for keypad access while using a more comfortable SNES controller for gameplay.
Original ColecoVision Controllers
✔ Fully Compatible — via DB-9 ports. Full keypad access for all games.
ColecoVision Super Action Controllers
✔ Fully Compatible — speed roller and all buttons supported.
ColecoVision Steering Wheel (Exp. Module #2)
⚠ Compatible — may require power input harness from a donor ColecoVision for the Roller Controller.
ColecoVision Roller Controller
⚠ Supported — may need separate power supply. Spinner needs controller plugged into port #2 for keypad access.
Standard SNES / SFC Controllers
✔ Fully Compatible — via side SNES port. Excellent alternative to original controllers.
NTT Data Pad (SNES)
✔ Fully Compatible — provides full keypad access via SNES port.
8BitDo SNES Retro Receiver
✔ Compatible — enables wireless controller support via the SNES port.
Atari 2600 Joystick (1-button)
✔ Compatible — via DB-9 ports. Limited to 1 fire button.
Sega Master System / Genesis Controllers
⚠ Compatible — via DB-9 ports. SMS 2-button and Genesis 3/6-button pads work but limited to 2 fire buttons for ColecoVision games.
PS/2 Keyboard
✔ Compatible — dual number key sets provide full keypad functionality. Useful for core updates and potential future ADAM/MSX cores.
AT Games ColecoVision Flashback Controllers
✘ NOT Compatible — despite similar appearance, these do not function correctly with the Phoenix.
Opcode Super Game Controller
✔ Compatible — designed by Ted Meyer specifically for ColecoVision and Phoenix use.
CORE SLOTS & SD CARD
The Phoenix supports up to 30 FPGA core slots, each representing a complete hardware recreation of a different gaming system. Core files use the .PHX extension and are installed to the SD card by naming them COREnn.PHX (where nn is the slot number 01–30).
On boot, the Phoenix displays a core selection menu. Press the assigned key (or X on an SNES controller) to enter the setup menu. If no key is pressed, the system automatically boots the 1st core slot (ColecoVision by default) after a few seconds. Each core is a complete FPGA hardware recreation of the target system — not software emulation. Planned arcade cores would be specific to individual arcade games, recreating the actual arcade hardware circuits.
SD Card Details
The Phoenix ships with a 2GB micro SD card and custom Phoenix SD card adapter. The SD card contains backup firmware and 10 pre-loaded homebrew ColecoVision games. You can swap to a larger capacity micro SD card if desired. Only one SD card is needed for all cores — no need to switch cards between ColecoVision and Atari 2600 modes.
SD Card ROM Loading Limits
The Phoenix has 500K of accessible SRAM for ROM loading. Some larger games may not load from SD card but will work from physical cartridge. Also, avoid file system corruption, overly long filenames, or Unicode characters in filenames, as these can cause “Failed to open directory” errors.
INCLUDED GAMES & SOFTWARE
Every Phoenix ships with one physical cartridge game and 10 digital homebrew ColecoVision games pre-loaded on the included SD card:
Physical Pack-In Game
💾Sydney Hunter & the Caverns of Death — Boxed cartridge with instruction manual. Exclusive Phoenix pack-in game by CollectorVision Games.
Digital Games on SD Card
01. Armageddon
02. Tank Mission
03. Zombie Near
04. Light Grid Racing
05. Chess Challenger
06. Sydney Hunter and the Sacred Tribe
07. Mecha-8
08. Spunky’s Super Car!
09. Quest for the Golden Chalice
10. Princess Quest
HARDWARE EXPANSIONS & BUILT-IN ENHANCEMENTS
The Phoenix integrates several enhancements that were originally separate add-on modules for the original ColecoVision. It also supports potential future expansion hardware through its DB-25 expansion port.
Opcode SGM (Built-In)
The Super Game Module expands ColecoVision RAM from 1K to 32K and adds an AY-3-8910 sound chip with 3+1 additional sound channels. Originally a separate $100 expansion module by Opcode Games (2012), the SGM functionality is built into the Phoenix under license. Plays virtually all SGM-enhanced games.
F18A VDP (Built-In)
Enhanced Video Display Processor that replaces the TMS9928A. Provides flicker reduction, expanded palette, hardware scrolling, and additional graphics modes. Games specifically programmed for the F18A (like “Game Wafer Pack” series) can take advantage of these enhanced capabilities.
Courtney WSG (Built-In)
The SEX7264 “Courtney” Wavetable Sound Generator is a custom sound expansion built into the Phoenix. Provides wavetable synthesis, stereo audio, and advanced sound capabilities for new homebrew games that support it.
Atari 2600 Core (Built-In)
Replaces the original ColecoVision Expansion Module #1 (Atari adapter). Play Atari 2600 games via SD card ROMs. A physical Atari 2600 cartridge adapter was discussed if sufficient interest materialized.
DB-25 Expansion Port
Provides +5V, +3.3V, GND, and 21 FPGA I/O pins. Intended for future custom expansion hardware. Does NOT accept original ColecoVision expansion modules.
What About Original ColecoVision Expansion Modules?
Original Expansion
Phoenix Equivalent
Status
Expansion Module #1 (Atari 2600 Adapter)
Built-in Atari 2600 FPGA core via SD card
✔ Included
Expansion Module #2 (Steering Wheel)
Connects directly to DB-9 port
✔ Compatible
Expansion Module #3 (ADAM Computer)
Not compatible — different expansion port
✘ Not Compatible
Super Game Module (Opcode)
Built into Phoenix hardware
✔ Included
Roller Controller
Supported — may need ColecoVision power harness
⚠ Supported*
Super Action Controllers
Connects directly to DB-9 ports
✔ Compatible
COLECOVISION vs. PHOENIX COMPARISON
Feature
ColecoVision (1982)
Phoenix VGS (2019)
CPU
Zilog Z80A @ 3.58 MHz
T80SE soft core (Z80 compatible) @ 100 MHz FPGA
Work RAM
1 KB
16 KB (32K in SGM mode)
Video RAM
16 KB
16 KB
Video Chip
TMS9928A
F18A v1.9 (TMS9928A enhanced)
Colors
16 fixed
16 standard / 4,096 in enhanced mode
Sprites/Scanline
4 (causes flicker)
32 (virtually eliminates flicker)
Sound
SN76489 (3 tone + 1 noise)
SN76489 + AY-3-8910 + Courtney WSG
Video Output
RF (analog)
HDMI 640×480p (digital)
Cartridge Slot
1 (ColecoVision)
1 (ColecoVision) + SD card slot
Controller Ports
2× DB-9
2× DB-9 + SNES + PS/2 keyboard
Expansion Port
Front slot (proprietary)
DB-25 rear (21 FPGA I/O pins)
SGM Support
Requires separate module ($100)
Built-in
Atari 2600 Games
Requires Expansion Module #1
Built-in core (SD card)
Region
NTSC or PAL (region locked)
Region-free worldwide
Power Supply
Region-specific AC adapter
Universal 100–240V worldwide
Source Code
Proprietary
Open Source (GitHub)
FIRMWARE & UPDATES
The Phoenix supports firmware updates via the SD card slot. Core updates and system firmware can be downloaded from the CollectorVision GitHub repository and installed by placing the appropriate files on the SD card.
Important: 1st Run vs 2nd Run Firmware
2nd Run consoles ship with the latest firmware pre-installed — no updates are needed. Do NOT flash a 2nd batch Phoenix with the 1st batch service menu (RevA0) — this will cause the video to stop working. If you accidentally do this, you will need to update blind by pressing key 3, watching for the LED to change to purple during update, then back to green when complete. A separate service core file is available for 2nd batch recovery only.
Updating Cores
Core files have a .PHX extension. To install or update a core on a specific slot, rename the core file to COREnn.PHX (where nn is the desired core slot number, 01–30) and copy it to the root of the SD card. Insert the SD card and the system will detect and install the update. Always follow the official instructions — incorrect installation can cause errors.
HISTORY & TIMELINE
October 2018
CollectorVision launches Kickstarter campaign for the Phoenix — an FPGA-based ColecoVision console. Initial goal of $230,000 (~1,000 backers needed). Campaign attracts significant attention in the retro gaming community.
Late 2018
Kickstarter campaign does not reach funding goal. CollectorVision pivots to “Plan B” — direct pre-orders through their website at $200 per unit for injection-molded consoles. Also announces Atari 2600 core support and future arcade core plans.
Early 2019
Pre-orders open. System name confirmed as “CollectorVision Phoenix Video Game System.” Development of FPGA cores continues with prototype units being tested by community members.
April 2019
Early Access prototype/beta units begin shipping to select pre-order customers.
August 2019
1st Run — Early Access Beta units officially ship with ColecoVision and Atari 2600 cores, F18A video enhancement, SGM compatibility, and 10 bundled homebrew games.
October 2019
1st Run — Non-early-access standard units ship. Nearly 500 units sold in the first production run. Both black (ColecoVision style) and grey (ADAM style limited edition) variants produced.
2020
2nd and final production run announced, requiring minimum 50 pre-orders. 2nd batch consoles ship with latest firmware pre-installed. Continued firmware updates and community core development.
2020 – Present
Ongoing community development via open-source GitHub repository. New homebrew games released that take advantage of Phoenix-enhanced features (F18A, SGM, Courtney WSG). Phoenix becomes the standard platform for modern ColecoVision gaming and development.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is FPGA the same as emulation?
No. FPGA is true hardware recreation, not software emulation. A Field Programmable Gate Array recreates the actual digital circuits of the original system in programmable silicon. Games interact with what is effectively the same hardware as the original ColecoVision, ensuring perfect timing, accurate sound, and full compatibility.
Will the Phoenix play all my ColecoVision cartridges?
The Phoenix is compatible with almost all ColecoVision game cartridges, including multi-carts and SGM-enhanced games. Physical cartridges plug directly into the top cartridge slot. You can also load ROM files from the SD card, though some larger ROMs may exceed the 500K SRAM limit for SD loading — these will still work from the physical cartridge.
Why is the video output only 480p?
The 640×480p output is driven by the F18A video processor. The original ColecoVision resolution is 256×192 (49,152 pixels), which is scaled 2× to 512×384 and padded to 640×480 (307,200 pixels — 6× the original). This provides the sharpest possible representation of the original graphics at their native aspect ratio. The clean digital HDMI signal produces a significantly better picture than the original RF output, and you will not see meaningful improvement at higher resolutions since the source content is only 256×192 pixels.
Does the F18A fix sprite flicker in all games?
The F18A supports 32 sprites per scanline (vs. the original 4), which eliminates most flicker. However, if a game is explicitly programmed to alternate sprite visibility (rather than simply exceeding the hardware sprite limit), the F18A cannot override that behavior. Most games with noticeable flicker (like BurgerTime, Tapper, Roc ‘n Rope) see significant improvement. The F18A does NOT fix Atari 2600 game flicker.
Can I use original ColecoVision expansion modules?
The Phoenix’s expansion port (DB-25) is NOT the same as the original ColecoVision expansion port. Expansion Module #1 (Atari adapter) is unnecessary since Atari 2600 is built-in. Expansion Module #3 (ADAM) is not compatible. The Steering Wheel (Expansion Module #2) connects directly to a DB-9 port and IS compatible. The Roller Controller works but may require a separate power source.
Why does the Phoenix use PS/2 instead of USB for the keyboard?
The FPGA already had built-in PS/2 support, making implementation straightforward and cost-effective. Adding USB would have required an additional USB interface chip, increasing cost and complexity. PS/2 keyboards are still readily available new from retailers. The keyboard is useful for core updates and would be essential for future ADAM computer or MSX cores.
Can I use a wireless controller?
Yes! The Phoenix is compatible with the 8BitDo SNES Retro Receiver, which plugs into the SNES controller port on the right side. This enables wireless controller support with any Bluetooth controller compatible with the 8BitDo receiver.
Is it safe to change cartridges with the system powered on?
No — it is recommended NOT to change physical cartridges while the system is powered on. Power off the system before inserting or removing cartridges.
Is the Phoenix still available for purchase?
The Phoenix was sold in two production runs (2019 and 2020). The 2nd run was announced as the final batch. Availability depends on remaining stock from CollectorVision Games. Check their website at collectorvision.com for current status, or look for units on the secondary market.
What are “Game Wafer Packs”?
Game Wafer Packs are enhanced ColecoVision games designed specifically to take advantage of the Phoenix’s expanded capabilities. They feature enhanced graphics (via F18A), improved music (via Courtney WSG), additional screens, features, and extra levels beyond what was possible on the original ColecoVision hardware.
What is the warranty?
CollectorVision provides a limited warranty of 90 days from the date of purchase.
My TV shows no picture — what should I try?
Not all displays handle the 640×480p @ 59.94Hz HDMI signal the same way. Try a different TV or monitor. Also ensure your SD card is fully seated in the adapter. If your TV has picture size or aspect ratio settings, try adjusting those. Check that you are using a quality HDMI cable (2.0 recommended).
The CollectorVision Phoenix Video Game System was designed and manufactured by CollectorVision Games Inc., based in Phoenix, USA & Montreal, Canada. CollectorVision has been an independent game developer, publisher, and manufacturer since 2008, known for creating homebrew games for systems ranging from the Atari 2600 to the Sega Dreamcast, including the critically acclaimed Sydney Hunter series.
Phoenix Development Team
Brian Burney — Originator & Lead Developer
Matthew Hagerty — FPGA Development
Madonna Mark III
Erik Piehl — Hardware Development
William Brantingham — Development
Mike Brent — Development
CollectorVision Team
Toby St-Aubin
John Lester
Jean-François Dupuis
Vincent Godefroy
The Super Game Module™ is a trademark of Opcode Games and is used by CollectorVision Games Inc. with permission. ColecoVision™ is a trademark of its respective owner. The CollectorVision Phoenix Video Game System is not affiliated with or licensed by the ColecoVision trademark holder. All product names, trademarks, and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners.
