The Visual Memory Unit (VMU) is the primary memory card produced by Sega for the Dreamcast home video game console. The device features a monochrome liquid crystal display (LCD), multiplayer gaming capability (via connectors at the top), second screen functionality, a real-time clock, file manager, built-in flash memory, and sound capability.

While its most basic function is as a removable storage device, the VMU may also serve as an auxiliary display during normal gameplay and, through the use of additional software (distributed as extras on Dreamcast GD-ROMs), acts as a handheld game console. Console-like features of the VMU include a screen, speaker, proper directional pad, four action buttons, the ability to connect and interact with other VMUs, and the ability to download additional games. While the standard VMU is white, colors were expanded to include many variations. 

 

Several titles for the Dreamcast included mini-games that could be downloaded onto a VMU. The Sonic Adventure series, for instance, included the Chao Adventure mini-game. In the game players could transfer Chao eggs to the VMU and play to increase the stats of their hatched Chao, whereupon they could upload their improved Chao back into the Dreamcast game.

Evolution 2 (12 Hour Clock)

Godzilla Generations (Japanese Version)

Power Stone

Power Stone 2

Marvel Vs. Capcom 2

Namco Museum

NFL 2K

NFL 2K1

NFL 2K2

Quake III Arena

Resident Evil 2

Sega GT

Shenmue

Skies of Arcadia

Sonic Adventure

Sonic Adventure 2

Soulcalibur (Japanese Version)

Tech Romancer

Time Stalkers

TrickStyle

Zombie Revenge

Tokyo Bus Guide

 

 

Usage:

1. Insert 2x 2032 coin batteries
2. Insert into your Dreamcast controller
3. It will power up in the controller without batteries, but you will need batteries to use it portably.
4. The Japanese versions have japanese text like the date and time, otherwise they function normally and save games in any language.

NOTE - Dust caps not included

 

Example use