Analogue, known for its innovative FPGA-based consoles, has just unveiled a crisp new version of the classic Nintendo 64—meet the Analogue 3D. At first glance, another take on retro gaming might not seem hugely thrilling. But fans committed to preserving N64’s legacy without dipping into the emulation waters may want to tune in. Significantly, the Analogue 3D ditches emulation altogether.
So, what’s this “FPGA” all about? It stands for “Field Programmable Gate Array.” In layman’s terms, this tech allows Analogue to recreate the Nintendo 64’s original hardware environment without falling back on software tricks. Their track record with the Analogue Pocket—addressing a range of retro handhelds—shows they know what they’re doing. Now, they’ve concentrated this expertise on the Nintendo 64.
Sure, the initial announcement was decked out in some extravagant phrases, but there’s a solid market for this kind of tech. Collectors and retro gamers know that buying and modifying an old N64 to support modern perks like Bluetooth and 4K (VRR) output can easily cost more than the Analogue 3D’s $250 price tag. And let’s face it, not everyone’s got the skills to mod vintage hardware.
The Analogue 3D delivers a contemporary spin on the Nintendo 64, minus those pesky regional locks, and plays every game from Nintendo’s library just as they were meant to be played—no lag, no unwanted emulation hiccups. It’s the kind of gear that retro enthusiasts dream about.
Adding some social media buzz to the mix, a tweet highlighted the device as the first to offer full compatibility with the entire N64 collection. It comes region-free, equipped with Bluetooth LE, dual-band Wi-Fi, and four ports styled after the original controls—a nostalgic nod packed with modern tech.
The console is primed to support original N64 controllers, memory packs included, letting you bring old saves straight into this new era. Introduced alongside the Analogue 3D is the Bluetooth-enabled 8BitDo 64 controller, crafted with a modern controller layout that’s been inspired by the Xbox. It promises a good run with hall-effect analog sticks, potentially outlasting those you typically find on more mainstream consoles.
Analogue hasn’t stopped at just controller upgrades. Their 3D OS introduces unique Display Modes, mimicking that classic CRT and PVM look on today’s 4K screens. This move should sharpen visuals, especially with VRR support smoothing over some of the N64’s more jittery titles. While CRT aficionados might be skeptical, if these modes match up to the best emulation filters out there, the Analogue 3D will have a serious edge.
The console does overlook one area—the N64DD. However, die-hard fans can leverage the SummerCart64 flash cart for added functionality. All told, the Analogue 3D emerges as a fantastic blend of nostalgia and modern gaming opportunities, particularly given the active scene around new N64 game development.
Mark the calendars—the doors for pre-orders swing open on October 21st. The Analogue 3D is set at $249.99, with the 8BitDo64 controller priced at $39.99.
10/17/24 Update: We previously described the Analogue 3D using “FGPA” erroneously and called it a “Field Programmable Grid Array.” We’ve corrected this to the accurate term, “Field Programmable Gate Array.”
