Nintendo 64 Revived with 4K VRR Support in the New Analogue 3D — A Cutting-Edge FPGA Console Playing Every N64 Game

Analogue, known for creating impressive FPGA consoles, has just unveiled their latest creation—a 4K VRR-capable version of the Nintendo 64 called the Analogue 3D. At first glance, this seems like just another retro gaming console, but for enthusiasts focused on preserving the classic N64 gaming experience without relying on emulators, this is a significant development.

The key technology here is FPGA, which stands for Field Programmable Gate Array. Analogue uses this technology to perfectly replicate the original Nintendo 64 hardware. Unlike emulators that sometimes face compatibility issues, the Analogue 3D promises to flawlessly reproduce the N64 gaming experience. This isn’t Analogue’s first foray into the retro world; they’ve previously impressed with the Analogue Pocket, but the 3D is designed with the Nintendo 64 specifically in mind.

Some might dismiss the official announcement’s enthusiastic language, but there’s no denying the market demand among retro game fans and preservationists for hardware like this. Modifying an original N64 with features like Bluetooth and 4K (VRR) output can be pricey and complicated. The Analogue 3D, priced at $250, offers these modern enhancements at a cost that’s hard to beat, especially for those who might not be equipped to modify their classic consoles themselves.

The Analogue 3D is a lovingly crafted homage to the Nintendo 64. By removing region locks and retaining full compatibility with the extensive library of N64 games, it excels where emulation often falls short—offering a lag-free, authentic gaming experience without the questionable ‘enhancements’ sometimes introduced by emulators.

Among its many features is wireless support for Bluetooth controllers. It’s also compatible with the classic N64 controllers and accessories like the original Memory Paks, letting you move your saved games to this updated hardware seamlessly. Additionally, Analogue announced a Bluetooth 8BitDo 64 controller, tailored for the console with an ergonomically modern design inspired by the Xbox controller. Notably, it includes hall-effect analog sticks known for their durability, promising an extended lifespan far beyond what we’ve seen from standard console sticks.

A standout feature of the Analogue 3D is its own dedicated operating system, 3D OS. This operating system includes options to mimic CRT and PVM display outputs on today’s 4K screens, helping to clear up any blurriness and providing VRR support to smooth out game performance. Hardcore CRT fans might raise an eyebrow, but if these modes rival or exceed current CRT filters in emulation, preserving the intended artistic presentation of vintage games, this feature alone is a game-changer. The Original Display Modes featured in the Analogue Pocket did set a high bar for accuracy, but the challenge is greater when dealing with a console of this level.

The Analogue 3D does notably lack support for Nintendo 64DD, a niche expansion for the original console. However, dedicated fans can access this through alternative solutions like the SummerCart64 flash cart. For those eager to experience Nintendo 64 classics on modern screens, the Analogue 3D seems poised to be the ideal choice—especially with today’s resurgence of N64 game development.

Starting October 21, you can pre-order both the Analogue 3D and its key accessory, the 8BitDo 64 controller. The console is priced at $249.99, while the controller will set you back $39.99.

Update 10/17/24: This article has been revised to correct a misstatement; the original described Analogue 3D’s base technology incorrectly as “FGPA” and referred to it as “Field Programmable Grid Array” instead of Field Programmable Gate Array. These errors have since been amended.