A 3D analogue has been announced, a dream for N64 fans: you can play both on original cartridges and in 4K

Analog he has something very important in his hands Analog 3D, his new project. The company behind other popular and acclaimed products such as the Analogue Pocket is now aiming its guns at a new device that promises to delight fans of classic video games and retro consoles: “reinvention” of the Nintendo 64.

Analogue 3D will arrive in 2024 and will bring some very interesting new features. Although the developers did not show the full characteristics or final appearance of the equipment, they mentioned some key points that should be taken into account. The most important thing, without a doubt, is that the console will not use software emulation.

This is because Analogue 3D is based on a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). Essentially, we are talking about an integrated circuit that can be customized or programmed to perform specific tasks. In this case, simulate the operation of Nintendo 64 at the hardware level.

The main advantage of this implementation is that Analogue 3D will be compatible with all cartridges that were released for the 1996 console, regardless of original region or availability restrictions. This means that users will be able to play any game released on the Japanese, North American or European version of the N64.

Analogue 3D, the next big bet to seduce gamers nostalgic

Analogue has a history of reimagining super-popular consoles around the world. In addition to the aforementioned Analogue Pocket, the company released its own versions of the Super Nintendo called Super NTand SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive, known as Mega SG. Likewise, the company is working on a dual version that pays tribute to the PC Engine and PC Engine Duo and supports both CD-based games and HuCard cartridges.

Given all this experience, it’s logical to be happy that Analogue 3D does an excellent job of emulating the Nintendo 64 experience in hardware. Let’s keep in mind that in addition to being compatible with all cartridges of the Japanese console, It will include 4 ports to connect the original controls..

However, if you think your thumbs can no longer handle long gaming sessions with an awkward center stick, Analogue releases a more modern 8BitDo wireless controller. Of course, it is not yet clear whether it will come with the console or be sold separately.

Analogue 3D will have an HDMI port with video output up to 4K. But for those who strive to repeat the experience of the Nintendo 64 in the smallest detail, two screen modes await you, which will automatically take them back to the second half of the nineties – early 2000s. We are talking, in particular, about the possibility of recreating the image quality as if they were playing on old CRT TV or PVM monitor.

“64 bits of fun”

Analogue defined the Nintendo 64 revival project as “64 bits of fun”. However, there are some additional elements to consider:

• Analogue 3D will not be compatible with illegally downloaded ROMs, such as those used in PC emulators. The only way to play is to use original cartridges.
• It also won’t be compatible with openFPGA, a program created by Analogue to open up the hardware of its devices to third parties. This made it possible, for example, to revive Space war!, a 1962 video game released on Analogue Pocket. However, the company has no plans to implement this option with Analogue 3D. While the reason is not explained, it is unsurprising that it is intended to avoid unauthorized game emulation and the possible legal consequences this could entail.

Beyond this Analogue project, it’s clear that nostalgia for retro gaming and consoles is at the highest point. Shortly before this, Atari announced the release of the Atari 2600+, a new version of its historical device, also compatible with the original cartridges. It also allowed the launch of games that were initially interrupted due to the crisis in the sector between 1983 and 1985.

Analogue 3D will be released sometime in 2024. but still no confirmed date. Its developers have promised more news, including full features, images and pricing, in the coming months. You can still register on their website to be notified when equipment becomes available.