Analogue 3D: Reviving the Nintendo 64 in 4K with VRR Support through a New FPGA Console, No Emulation Needed

Analogue, the company known for its FPGA-based consoles, has just unveiled a fresh update on the classic Nintendo 64: the Analogue 3D. Now, at first glance, this might not shake everyone’s world. But for those who are deeply committed to preserving the charm of N64 games without venturing into the evolving realm of PC emulation, there’s a key detail that makes the Analogue 3D stand out—it sidesteps the need for emulation entirely.

The magic lies in the “FPGA,” which stands for Field Programmable Gate Array. Analogue has effectively rebuilt the N64’s functionality from the ground up, enhancing it without relying on software emulation. This means it promises full compatibility and accuracy with every game in the system’s library. This isn’t their first rodeo either; they’ve done something similar with the Analogue Pocket, focusing on a variety of retro handheld consoles, while the 3D targets the legendary Nintendo 64.

The announcement might use some high-flying language, but there’s good reason for excitement among retro gaming enthusiasts and preservationists. Imagine the effort and cost of upgrading an original N64 for Bluetooth and 4K (VRR) output. Modifying an old system requires skills and may end up costing more than the Analogue 3D’s price tag of $250. For anyone who may lack the know-how, the Analogue 3D is a ready-made solution.

This console is a modern recreation of Nintendo’s classic. It eliminates region locking and provides seamless compatibility with every title in the N64 library, ensuring games run just as they were meant to, sans the annoying lags or less-than-perfect enhancements often found in emulation. For any retro gamer, this piece of hardware is a collector’s dream.

Analogue’s announcement sparked buzz by highlighting Bluetooth-enabled wireless controllers. The console works with original Nintendo 64 controllers and their attachments, including Memory Paks, so you can transfer old saves to your new device with ease. They also revealed the 8BitDo 64 controller, designed to pair perfectly with Analogue 3D. This controller copies the Xbox’s modern layout and features hall-effect analog sticks for durability, promises to outlast any standard first-party console stick.

On top of that, Analogue is rolling out its 3D OS, designed specifically for the console. This includes the ability to replicate CRT and PVM display outputs on modern 4K screens. This means you can enjoy games with enhanced clarity and reduced stutter thanks to VRR. Considered skeptically by CRT enthusiasts, these features might edge out existing CRT filters used in emulation to keep retro visuals alive. Analogue’s previous attempt with the Pocket’s display modes was impressively accurate, though handhelds are admittedly simpler to manage.

The only aspect Analogue 3D seems to miss is support for the Nintendo 64DD. Die-hard fans may seek out SummerCart64 flash carts to get their 64DD fix on either the 3D or an original N64. Other than that, it checks all boxes for N64 gameplay on today’s screens and supports modern developments in N64 gaming.

Get ready, as pre-orders kick off on October 21st. The Analogue 3D will set you back $249.99, while picking up the matching 8BitDo64 controller requires an additional $39.99.

Update as of October 17: We’ve corrected an error from an earlier version that mistakenly referred to the Analogue 3D as “FGPA” and “Field Programmable Grid Array.” The correct terminology is FPGA, standing for Field-Programmable Gate Array. Apologies for any confusion!