UK-based innovators Heber, a company with a rich 30-year history in electronic controls and a deep connection to the gaming world, have announced that the Multisystem², their brand-new, all-in-one FPGA-based retro gaming console, is coming soon.
For those craving the most authentic retro gaming experience without the hassle of original hardware, this could be the answer. Heber, nestled in an 18th-century mill in Stroud and part of the esteemed Retro Collective, isn’t new to this. They’ve been crafting replacement systems for arcade and computer museums for years. So much so, their expertise in FPGA technology shines through in this exciting new offering.
And better still, it seems to do everything the “SuperSEGA” promised, with the added benefit of being reap.
FPGA, not emulation
The Multisystem² isn’t just another emulator box; this isn’t an Evercade, or The400 Mini, or any of those devices. They rely on a compact single-board computer, run Linux behind the scenes, which hosts optimized emulation software.
Instead it’s a meticulously designed piece of hardware that utilizes cutting-edge FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) hardware synthesis. This means it recreates the original hardware at a silicon level, promising an accuracy that emulators simply can’t match. Prepare for gaming experiences that feel, sound, and behave just like you remember them!
What makes the Multisystem² stand out?
Heber is touting the Multisystem² as the first true all-in-one multi-platform console. This new generation boasts a redesigned system board that makes FPGA retro gaming more accessible than ever before. And for those who love to tinker and expand, the Multisystem² offers a plethora of expansion options, building upon existing Multisystem add-ons and unlocking possibilities previously out of reach thanks to its direct FPGA hardware design.
Out of the box, the Multisystem² comes fully assembled in a sleek, 3D-printed charcoal black enclosure, proudly designed and manufactured by Heber in the UK. Simply plug in your region-specific power supply, an SD card, an HDMI cable, and your favourite controller (compatible with Heber’s CTRL Dock, Super CTRL Dock, and Module ARC), and you’re ready to dive into gaming history.
Two Multisystem² consoles
Heber understands that retro gamers have different needs, which is why they’re offering two distinct versions of the Multisystem²:
- Multisystem² Analogue (£210 / $279 USD / 245 Euro): This is the powerhouse for the purists. It supports vintage TVs and CRT displays alongside HDMI output and boasts a full complement of I/O ports and extensive expansion capabilities. If you’re a seasoned FPGA enthusiast looking for ultimate control and compatibility with classic setups, this is the one for you.
- Multisystem² Digital (£170 / $226 USD / 198 Euro): A fantastic plug-and-play solution for newcomers to the world of FPGA retro gaming. This version focuses on simplicity with an HDMI output, making it easy to connect to modern displays and jump straight into the action.
Adding a unique touch, the Multisystem² supports NFC readers powered by Zaparoo (Taptoo). Imagine loading your favourite games with a simple tap of a card – a fantastic blend of modern convenience and retro charm!
“The very best FPGA retro gaming”
Richard Horne, Commercial Director at Heber Ltd. and a part of the Retro Collective, shares his excitement: “We are delighted to launch the Multisystem² for everyone to enjoy the very best FPGA based Retro Gaming experience available today. I’m incredibly proud of the entire Heber and Retro Collective team for supporting such a wonderful community.”
Neil Thomas, Curator of The Cave retro computer museum at The Retro Collective, echoes this sentiment: “The Multisystem² is like a museum in a box, I can dive into generations of retro games using an original controller and the same 14” TV I owned as a teenager, and enjoy the most authentic experience possible short of owning and maintaining old hardware. It’s absolutely brilliant!”
So, why choose Multisystem² over other FPGA-based solutions? Well, it has a British company behind it, which is reason enough for many. But in addition:
- Ready to Play: Arrives fully assembled.
- Quality Focused: High-quality connectors, components, and assembly.
- UK Made: Designed, manufactured, and assembled in the UK.
- Powerful Hardware: Altera Cyclone 5 FPGA / 128MB SDRAM (ISSI).
- Expansive: 10 Layer PCB, Cartridge expansion, further 50-way I/O expansion, 7 port USB, I2C expansion.
- Backward Compatible: Plays all available cores from the MiSTer Stack & Multisystem 1 (Single SDRAM configuration).
- Analogue Output: 24-bit analogue video output as standard (configurable to 16 or 18-bit).
Heber also offers a range of optional add-ons to enhance your Multisystem² experience, including:
- A growing range of 8x SNAC Cartridges for authentic controller input on systems like NES, SNES, N64, Saturn, PlayStation, PCEngine, and more.
- A slice tray for various CTRLDock USB interfaces or mass storage devices.
- An enclosure kit for adding an LCD screen.
- 3D Printed SNAC cartridge holders.
- Integration with Zaparoo (Taptoo) for NFC game loading.
- Compatibility with TTY2OLED.
When can you get the Heber Multisystem²?
Pre-orders for the Heber Multisystem² open on Tuesday, May 6th at 2:00 PM UK time! Shipping is targeted to begin in August 2025, with orders fulfilled in pre-order sequence.
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This looks like a truly exciting development for the retro gaming community, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology and genuine passion for classic games. You need to get over to the Heber online store and check out everything they have on offer for this FPGA system and beyond.
Will you be among the first to experience the Multisystem²? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.
