Analogue, a renowned name in the FPGA console market, has unveiled their latest creation: the Analogue 3D, a fresh take on the iconic Nintendo 64. What sets this release apart is its ability to render classic N64 games in stunning 4K with VRR support, while crucially avoiding the need for emulation. For gaming aficionados keen on preserving the original N64 experience without the unpredictability of PC emulation, this is a significant development.
Now, let’s dive into that “FPGA” aspect, which stands for Field Programmable Gate Array. In layman’s terms, Analogue has meticulously rebuilt the N64’s functionality from the ground up, maintaining complete compatibility with every title in its library. They’ve accomplished similar feats with the Analogue Pocket for a range of retro handheld games, but now their focus is squarely on enhancing the N64 experience.
The announcement itself, although laced with some marketing flair, speaks to a niche yet passionate segment of retro gamers and preservationists. For anyone looking to breathe new life into the original N64 with modifications like Bluetooth or 4K (VRR) support, the Analogue 3D’s $250 price tag could be a more cost-effective option, especially when considering the expertise required to mod old consoles.
With region locking removed and full compatibility with the N64’s array of games precisely as they were meant to be played, the Analogue 3D will undoubtedly appeal to retro gaming enthusiasts. There’s no input lag, and the console stays true to the original gameplay without the sometimes-questionable improvements or delays introduced by emulation.
Moreover, this console brings wireless Bluetooth controller support to the table, offering versatility with both original N64 controllers and expansions like the Memory Paks. This allows players to seamlessly carry over their old save files to the new system. To complement the Analogue 3D, a new 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth controller is also being launched. This modern controller pays homage to Xbox design while featuring hall-effect analog sticks for enhanced durability beyond what’s typically expected from first-party console sticks.
Analogue has also added a dash of modern flair with its 3D OS, which promises to replicate the nostalgic CRT and PVM displays on current 4K screens. This feature is particularly appealing for games that could often look blurred without such enhancements. The VRR support boosts the experience by smoothing out any stutters found in some classic N64 titles. Although purists might raise an eyebrow, if these features are on par with top-tier CRT filters used in emulation, the Analogue 3D is set to impress.
The only thing some hardcore N64 fans might miss is integration for the Nintendo 64DD, though there are alternatives like the SummerCart64 flash cart for those dedicated to covering all bases. When it comes to playing N64 classics on today’s screens, this console emerges as a robust option alongside burgeoning modern N64 game development.
Pre-orders for the Analogue 3D and its companion, the 8BitDo 64 controller, begin on October 21st, with the console retailing at $249.99 and the controller at $39.99.
As a quick note, we’ve corrected a couple of earlier blunders where the article mentioned “FGPA” instead of the right acronym, FPGA, standing for Field Programmable Gate Array. These have now been set straight.
