Analogue, the innovative FPGA console maker, has taken a leap forward by unveiling the Analogue 3D, a revamped Nintendo 64 that now supports 4K resolution with VRR. For many, the news might not immediately resonate as game-changing. However, enthusiasts dedicated to preserving the classic N64 experience, without the quirks of PC emulation, will be thrilled to learn that the Analogue 3D doesn’t rely on emulation at all.
The magic word here is “FPGA” — short for Field Programmable Gate Array. What this means is that Analogue has painstakingly replicated the Nintendo 64’s inner workings on a hardware level. This approach guarantees full compatibility with every game in the N64 library, delivering an authentic experience. Analogue has shown its prowess in this area before with their work on the Analogue Pocket, and now they’re channeling their expertise towards reviving the Nintendo 64.
While some may find the announcement a bit overblown, there’s a dedicated audience of retro gamers and preservationists eager for offerings like the Analogue 3D. If you consider the expense and technical skill needed to upgrade an original N64 with features like Bluetooth and 4K output, the $250 price tag on the Analogue 3D suddenly seems quite reasonable, especially for those who might not be adept at DIY console modifications.
For anyone who remembers the Nintendo 64 fondly, the Analogue 3D is a beautifully crafted homage, offering a modern twist while staying true to the original. With no regional restrictions and flawless compatibility, games run smoothly without the added latency or odd enhancements sometimes introduced by emulation. For any collector, it could be a worthy addition.
On top of that, the new console features wireless Bluetooth support for controllers, allowing players to experience classics with the comforts of modern tech. The console retains compatibility with original N64 controllers and their accessories, including Memory Paks, making it easy to carry over your old game saves. Analogue also plans to release a Bluetooth-enabled 8BitDo 64 controller, reflecting a modern yet familiar design inspired by Xbox controllers, complete with hall-effect analog sticks promising greater durability than typical analog sticks.
Analogue is also introducing some unique sets of features with its 3D OS, crafted specifically for the console. One standout feature is the Original Display Modes that mimic the visual output of classic CRT and PVM displays on contemporary 4K screens. This is particularly beneficial given the sometimes fuzzy look of N64 graphics, with VRR support stepping in to iron out any choppy gameplay. However, die-hard CRT fans will likely scrutinize these features closely.
Should these features prove comparable or superior to current CRT filters seen in emulation software known for maintaining the integrity of retro game visuals, the Analogue 3D may well impress the community. Considering the success of the Original Display Modes employed in the Analogue Pocket for handheld systems, there’s reason to be optimistic—though designing a handheld display differs markedly from tackling 4K television screens.
While the device predominantly seems to offer a fantastic way to revisit N64 classics, it’s worth noting the absence of support for the Nintendo 64DD. Enthusiasts who crave this can turn to the SummerCart64 flash cart solution available for either the Analogue 3D or original N64 systems. Nonetheless, for accessing N64 games on modern displays, the Analogue 3D presents itself as an exciting option, especially with the resurgence of new game development for the platform.
Those eager to secure the Analogue 3D or the complementary 8BitDo 64 controller can start placing pre-orders on October 21st. Priced at $249.99 for the console and $39.99 for the controller, this new offering might just be what retro gaming aficionados have been waiting for.
Update 10/17/24: The initial article made an error, referring to the technology as “FGPA” and labeling it a “Field Programmable Grid Array.” These have now been amended to the correct term, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA).
