If you’ve been watching the retro hardware scene, you know how long the journey has been for the Analogue 3D. Originally announced in 2023 as a high-end FPGA re-imagining of the Nintendo 64, it faced delay after delay.
However, the Analogue 3D has now begun shipping to pre-order buyers (although there will be a delay for new orders to be open).
What makes Analogue 3D special?
The Analogue 3D isn’t just another retro plug-in console. It aims to play every N64 cartridge ever made — PAL, NTSC, from the smallest oddities to the blockbusters — and output at modern resolutions (4K) while staying faithful to the hardware.
Features include:
- Original-style controller ports (four of them) so you can couch-multiplayer just like the original N64.
- FPGA hardware (not just emulation) for more accurate timing and compatibility.
- Modern display modes, high resolution output, and support for original cartridges out of the box.
- A premium build, designed for collectors and serious retro gamers.
If you still have your old N64 cartridges (and let’s be honest — many of us do), this device promises a “best of both worlds” scenario: original hardware compatibility + modern convenience.
| Analogue 3D | Original Nintendo 64 | |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2025 | 1996 |
| Hardware Type | FPGA recreation | Original Nintendo hardware |
| Video Output | HDMI, up to 4K, modern display modes | Composite / S-Video (later RGB via modding) |
| Controller Compatibility | Original N64 controllers + upcoming modern wireless options | Original N64 controllers only |
| Game Compatibility | All N64 cartridges (NTSC/PAL/JP) | All N64 cartridges from region-matched hardware |
| Lag / Accuracy | FPGA timing aims for hardware-level accuracy | Native hardware |
| Storage | SD card for firmware, profiles, save backups | Internal cartridge saves only |
| Modern Features | VRR, scaling modes, display presets, firmware updates | None |
| Price | Premium collector-tier pricing | Varies (retro market; generally cheaper) |
| Availability | Limited production runs, pre-order waves | Must buy used; hardware aging |
The delays and the wait
Here’s the part that can’t be ignored: the Analogue 3D was supposed to launch far earlier. Multiple announcements moved the shipping window:
- Initially planned for 2024.
- Delayed to July 2025, then August, then Q4.
- Customers became understandably restless — pre-orders opened in October 2024 and many had waited over a year.
It’s fair to say that any purchase now comes with a reminder: even premium retro hardware launches still face real-world manufacturing, tariff, and component hurdles.
Why this matters to the retro-hardware crowd
As someone who keeps tabs on retro consoles, FPGA builds, and hardware fidelity, the Analogue 3D is a big deal for several reasons.
Primarily, it promises full N64 library compatibility. This is important to anyone looking to play real cartridges without relying on aging hardware. Modding is an option, but this is a simpler solution by comparison. FPGA might be a complex technology, but Analogue have a great track record in producing what might to a layman be “hardware emulation” rather than software emulation. It’s almost like playing on the original console.
There is also the bonus that hardware like the Analogue 3D gives to retro gaming collectors, of both consoles and games.
Should you still jump in?
If you’re considering it, a few thoughts:
- If you already own a working N64 setup and just need to plug in and play, you might weigh whether the premium cost and wait time justify the upgrade.
- If you’re a collector, or you’ve struggled to maintain old hardware, the Analogue 3D may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
- The shipping has kicked off, but restocks are currently sold out. Pre-order holders are first in line — new buyers may still wait for future runs.
But if you’re patient… well, the Analogue 3D might just be the best retro multiplayer system ever.
Final thoughts
The Analogue 3D is now moving from promise to delivery. It still carries the baggage of delays, but if all goes well, it might become one of the most compelling retro-hardware releases yet.
Fancy one? Visit the Analogue 3D page and register for updates.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
