Analogue, known for its FPGA-based consoles, has something exciting for retro gaming fans: a revamped Nintendo 64 called the Analogue 3D that brings 4K and VRR support to the table. At first glance, it might seem like just another retro console release, but it’s got an appeal for those keen on preserving classic N64 games without relying on the quirks of emulation software.
That term “FPGA” is crucial here—it stands for “Field Programmable Gate Array,” which, in layman’s terms, means Analogue has recreated the N64’s hardware down to the tiniest details. This results in a fully compatible gaming experience without relying on software emulation. It’s a similar approach to what they used with the Analogue Pocket for retro handheld gaming, but this time it’s all about the Nintendo 64.
While some marketing fluff certainly fills Analogue’s announcement, there’s a dedicated community of game preservationists and retro gamers who see real value here. If you consider the often steep cost of sourcing and upgrading an original N64 with Bluetooth and 4K (VRR) capabilities, the Analogue 3D’s price tag of $250 is quite tempting, especially for those not inclined to tinker with hardware mods.
The Analogue 3D is an impressively faithful modern reimagining of the Nintendo 64 console. With the aggravations of region locking and emulation-related input lag completely sidestepped, and the promise of true-to-original gameplay, this console is sure to find its place in many a retro gaming setup.
Analogue teased it on social media, promising the world’s first console fully compatible with the entire N64 game library, boasting features like region-free gaming, Bluetooth LE, and dual-band Wi-Fi, with support for classic controllers and their expansions, including those invaluable Memory Paks for importing all your cherished saves. They’re also launching a Bluetooth 8BitDo 64 controller, designed to complement it perfectly. Its layout is akin to an Xbox controller but sports hall-effect analog sticks, improving durability over standard controllers.
Another notable feature of the Analogue 3D is its bespoke OS packed with clever tricks to mimic the look of old CRT and PVM displays on new 4K TVs. If executed well, these features could enhance the blurry visuals of yesteryear, all while benefiting from VRR support to smooth out any choppy transitions in those older games. While the more die-hard CRT fans might be skeptical, if Analogue’s setup is up to par or even surpasses top-tier CRT filters used in emulators today, then this console’s appeal really shines. With their experience from the Analogue Pocket’s Original Display Modes, they’ve shown they’re capable of getting this right.
The one piece missing from the puzzle? Official N64 DD support. Passionate fans can still find their way to this feature with extras like the SummerCart64 flash cart, but on the whole, Analogue 3D stands as a fantastic option for playing N64 games on today’s TV screens, especially as new N64 titles continue to pop up.
Pre-orders for the Analogue 3D and its companion 8BitDo 64 controller start on October 21st. The console is priced at $249.99, with the controller available for $39.99.
Correction from October 17, 2024: We initially stated “FGPA” instead of FPGA and “Field Programmable Grid Array” instead of Field-Programmable Gate Array. The article has been updated to reflect the correct terms.
