The add-on was distributed under the name Super 32X in Japan, Genesis 32X in North America, Mega Drive 32X in the PAL region, and Mega 32X in Brazil.

Independent of the Genesis, the 32X uses its own ROM cartridges and has its own library of games. Codenamed 'Project Mars', the 32X was designed to expand the power of the Genesis and serve as a transitional console into the 32-bit era until the release of the Sega Saturn. The 32X is an add-on for the Sega Genesis video game console.