1. What Was the NEC PC-9801 (PC-98)?

The NEC PC-9801, widely known as the PC-98, was a 16-bit (later 32-bit) Japanese personal computer line launched in 1982. Dominating Japan’s PC market throughout the '80s and early '90s, the PC-98 was the platform of choice for visual novels, RPGs, and simulation games, before Windows became standard.

While it remained virtually unknown outside Japan, the PC-98 shaped Japanese game development and helped launch the careers of many legendary studios.

2. Key Features of the PC-98

• Intel 8086/80286/486 CPUs: evolved across generations, with 640x400 high-res display support early on.
• Custom graphics system: crisp bitmap visuals, perfect for dense UI and detailed character art.
• FM and PCM sound: Yamaha FM chips delivered rich audio, speech, and music via internal sound boards.
• 5.25” and 3.5” floppy disks: common media formats for game and software distribution.
• Japanese language support: integrated Kanji ROMs for full native character rendering.

3. Legendary Software and Developers

• Origin of visual novels: titles like YU-NO, Rance, and Desire set the genre standards.
• RPG heavyweights: Farland Story, Brandish, The Legend of Heroes, and Royal Blood.
• Studio powerhouses: Leaf, Nihon Falcom, ELF, and AliceSoft all thrived on PC-98.

4. Legacy and Cultural Impact

The PC-98 wasn’t just a computer — it was a cultural platform. It preserved and nurtured genres that are now core to Japanese gaming, and its influence extends through decades of storytelling and game design.

• Massive software library: thousands of games and apps exclusive to the platform.
• Still emulated today: through Neko Project II and DOSBox-X, with active translation communities.
• High collector value: rare PC-98 hardware and games are highly prized in retro circles.