Analogue, renowned for their FPGA-based consoles, has unveiled a new version of the classic Nintendo 64 called the Analogue 3D. It’s quite an exciting revelation for those passionate about preserving N64 games, especially since it eliminates the need for PC emulation, which is still a work in progress.
So, what’s this FPGA all about? It stands for “Field Programmable Gate Array.” This technology enables Analogue to meticulously recreate and enhance the Nintendo 64’s functionalities without emulating through software. The result? A machine boasting complete library compatibility and perfect accuracy. Analogue succeeded with this approach previously with their Analogue Pocket, which catered to a variety of handheld game systems. The 3D, however, zeroes in on the Nintendo 64.
Despite the lofty language in the announcement, there’s a substantial audience among retrogamers and those dedicated to game preservation who appreciate hardware like this. Usually, the cost of buying an original N64 and upgrading it with Bluetooth and 4K VRR capabilities often exceeds the $250 price tag of the Analogue 3D. Add in the technical know-how required for such modifications, and the Analogue 3D emerges as a compelling option.
Faithfully modernizing the Nintendo 64, the Analogue 3D removes region locking and offers full compatibility with the entire N64 game library. By avoiding input lag and forgoing any doubtful emulation enhancements, it seems like a must-have for retro enthusiasts looking for their next collector’s item.
In their own words, Analogue introduced the device on Twitter with all the flair you’d expect. They talked up the 4K resolution and VRR support, touting it as possibly the ultimate multiplayer console. It boasts complete compatibility with every N64 game ever made and features like Bluetooth LE and dual-band WiFi.
Besides Bluetooth controller support, this console works seamlessly with the original N64 controllers, including all those expansions. If you’re looking to keep your old save files intact, the original Memory Paks can transfer saves directly to the Analogue 3D. Plus, Analogue has rolled out a Bluetooth 8BitDo 64 controller made for this console, featuring a familiar Xbox-inspired layout. It uses hall-effect analog sticks, promising a longer lifespan than your standard analog sticks.
The Analogue 3D isn’t merely a hardware recreation; it sports a 3D OS with features that aim to replicate the CRT and PVM display outputs on today’s 4K screens. This upgrade should significantly enhance the clarity of those old-school graphics, especially with VRR smoothing out gameplay. Purists might be skeptical about how well these display modes can match genuine CRTs, though.
Nonetheless, if these features match or exceed the most effective CRT filters used in current emulation efforts, Analogue 3D promisingly stands out. The Analogue Pocket earned a reputation for authentic Original Display Modes; however, achieving similar results on a fully manufactured handheld device is easier.
Some might lament the lack of direct support for the Nintendo 64DD, though enthusiasts can resort to the SummerCart64 flash cart for this rare expansion. Overall, the 3D does seem like a fantastic choice for reliving N64 classics in modern glory, catering to both nostalgic players and contemporary developers exploring new creations.
Interested buyers can start placing their pre-orders for the Analogue 3D and its 8BitDo 64 counterpart on October 21st. Prices are set at $249.99 for the console and $39.99 for the controller.
We updated this article on October 17, 2024, to correct an error where FPGA was misstated as “FGPA” and misdescribed as a “Field Programmable Grid Array” instead of the correct “Field Programmable Gate Array.”
