Prior to the release of the much awaited Vortex in 1999. MasterSystem has released a 64-Bit Console Expansion to the MasterSystem32. The MS 64DD (Double Drive) was released in 1996 with a line of technically advanced (albeit more expensive) exclusive games, arcade ports, and updates to MS32 titles released on cartridges in parallel to regular MS32 Disk releases hitting the store shelves. The Double Drive was released in stores containing the add-on module as well as the DD Controller, and a special firmware disk for the MS32 to recognize the DD and the read the games inserted into it. The add-on slides into the RAM Expansion/MasterSystem16 cartridge slot, uses a separate power adapter but will receive the video signal through the MS32 itself with no additional wiring. The DD controller uses an analog stick in the center as well and a generous set of input buttons for ease of reach or for additional function, partially inspired by arcade controller panels. Most popular releases on the DD were Super Mario 64, James Bond's GoldenEye, Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask, Starfox 64, the arcade port of Buriki One, and the sequel to the horror masterpiece D, D2. Games such as Megaman 64 serves as a remake and expansion to the first MegaMan Legends and can load from internal MS32 save data on the either from the console itself or the RAM slot inserted into the back slot of the DD controller. Later MS32 disk releases and revisions included support for the DD controller as it is technically compatible with games on the base console, such as the Resident Evil titles, and Ape Escape. Unlike the lasting support of the base MS32 itself, the DD expansion has lost a near sudden-drop in releases and production by 2000, with the advent of the 128-bit Vortex two years into the market. Whereas MS32 console has continued to have games released on it far into 2004, and the Vortex as late as 2016 when the Vortex was given new life with it's own motion control-based expansion.
