Mängukassett

Mängukassett, often referred to as a game cartridge, is a type of ROM hardware used for storing software, most commonly video games. It is a portable device that plugs directly into a console or computer. Early video game consoles utilized cartridges to store their games, allowing players to swap out different titles easily.

The advantage of cartridges was their durability and ease of use. They were relatively robust and could be inserted and removed without the need for complex loading procedures. This made them ideal for the early days of home video gaming, where convenience and accessibility were key. However, cartridges had limitations, primarily their storage capacity and cost of production compared to later media formats. As technology advanced, cartridge-based systems were gradually replaced by optical media like CD-ROMs and later by digital distribution. Despite this shift, cartridges remain a nostalgic and collectible item for many retro gaming enthusiasts. Some modern niche consoles and handheld devices still utilize cartridges for their specific gaming experiences. The design of a cartridge typically involves a printed circuit board containing ROM chips, enclosed within a protective plastic casing.