Analogue, the well-known name in FPGA console creations, has unveiled their latest marvel: a 4K, VRR-capable reinvention of the iconic Nintendo 64, called the Analogue 3D. At first glance, this might not strike as groundbreaking. However, for those who are passionate about preserving classic N64 titles without depending on the sometimes hit-or-miss PC emulation, the Analogue 3D offers an enticing proposition since it doesn’t use emulation in its operation.
The secret sauce here is the “FPGA”—or Field Programmable Gate Array. Analogue has meticulously recreated and enhanced the Nintendo 64’s innards without resorting to software emulation, achieving precise compatibility across the entire system’s library. They previously achieved similar feats with the Analogue Pocket, which catered to a broad range of retro handhelds. This time, their focus is laser-sharp on the Nintendo 64.
While the announcement certainly uses a bit of flowery language to make its point, there’s a devoted community of game preservationists and retro gaming enthusiasts who are likely to be interested in this sort of hardware. If you were to acquire and modify an original N64, adding features like Bluetooth and 4K VRR output, it would generally surpass the Analogue 3D’s $250 price tag—especially for those without the necessary skills to perform these modifications themselves.
With the Analogue 3D, you get what seems like a flawless modern incarnation of the Nintendo 64. It rids itself of the pesky region locking and ensures 100% compatibility with every N64 game, exactly as they were intended to be played. There’s no input lag or questionable tweaks that can sometimes come with emulation, making this console an attractive addition to any retro fan’s collection.
In addition to supporting wireless Bluetooth controllers, the Analogue 3D can use controllers designed for the original Nintendo 64, including expansions like the original Memory Paks, allowing players to migrate their old saves. The announcement also featured a Bluetooth 8BitDo 64 controller designed to complement the console. With an Xbox-inspired layout, this controller offers a modern feel for N64 games and includes hall-effect analog sticks for enhanced durability, surpassing even first-party console sticks.
Analogue didn’t stop with traditional features; their 3D OS incorporates functionalities to replicate CRT and PVM display outputs on modern 4K screens. These are paired with VRR support to smooth out the stuttering found in some N64 games. CRT enthusiasts might raise an eyebrow at this, but if these options rival or exceed top-tier CRT filters found in emulation, Analogue 3D could make its mark. The Original Display Modes on their Analogue Pocket were remarkably accurate, but achieving this on a handheld is inherently simpler.
There’s a minor drawback, though—the absence of native support for the Nintendo 64DD. Hardcore devotees might need the SummerCart64 flash cart to explore 64DD games with the Analogue 3D or the original N64. Other than that, it presents a wonderful solution for diving into N64 classics on contemporary screens, especially with the resurgence of N64 game development.
Both the Analogue 3D and its matching 8BitDo 64 controller will be available for pre-order starting October 21st. The console is priced at $249.99, while the controller comes in at $39.99.
Update (10/17/24): We initially erred in calling the Analogue 3D an “FGPA” device and describing it as a “Field Programmable Grid Array.” The article has been revised to display the correct term: Field-Programmable Gate Array.
