For those who have a soft spot for classic games, it’s common knowledge that the NES’ expansion port never officially saw any use. However, if you’re one of the lucky owners of the NES-001 model wanting to put that port to good use, RetroTime has unveiled a new device just for you. They’ve launched the NES Hub, an innovative gadget available for pre-order via 8BitMods, bringing Bluetooth support to the iconic console.
What makes the NES Hub stand out is its ability to upgrade the console with Bluetooth controller compatibility and enhanced audio features. The device also offers an additional system for expansion, including the “SNES Add-on.” This add-on allows gamers to use wired SNES and 15-pin Famicom controllers with their beloved NES, opening up a new world of possibilities for gameplay.
Gamers can mark their calendars, as both the NES Hub and its SNES Add-on are slated for shipping in December 2024. The NES Hub itself is priced at $57.28, while the complementary SNES Add-on costs $26.03. So, if you’re looking to fully upgrade your NES experience, you’ll be in for a total of $83.31 before tax. An enticing feature of the NES Hub is its ability to connect up to four Bluetooth controllers simultaneously. Moreover, for those with a modified NES capable of playing Famicom games, the Hub can activate Expansion Audio mode, enabling more audio channels for select titles than typically found on Famicom or NES games.
For context, the Famicom, or “Family Computer,” is the original Japanese moniker for what we know as the Nintendo Entertainment System. This wasn’t just a name; it had impressive functions like Internet connectivity for non-gaming activities, such as checking stock prices. The Japanese gaming scene was tapping into online potentials early on, whereas American console players didn’t experience similar possibilities until the large-scale adoption with systems like the Sega Dreamcast and Microsoft’s Xbox.
It’s interesting to note that mainstream Bluetooth support didn’t really make its way to the gaming sphere until the Seventh Generation consoles, which kicked off in 2005 with the likes of Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and the Wii. The NES, as part of the third generation, hit the market back in October 1985—long before Bluetooth saw the light of day in 1999. Adding Bluetooth functionality to the NES sparks a delightful twist, bridging the gap between vintage hardware and modern capabilities. This addition also aligns the experience more closely with emulation options available on a Nintendo Virtual Console or PC.
It’s clear that this upgrade caters to a niche market, and the specialized pricing reflects that. For those seeking a way to breathe new life into their NES-001 model with better controller options, the NES Hub comes off as a promising solution.
