Like its more fully-formed sibling, the Raspberry Pi Pico has proved adept at handling retro gaming projects.
The latest example of the Pico’s versatility is as the controller on a custom Nintendo 64 cartridge, where it can be used to host ROM files. While the examples on Twitter (see below) demonstrate the Pico connected to the cartridge PCB, developer Konrad Beckmann is already planning a version that eschews the Pico’s pins and mounts the RP2040 processor directly to the PCB.
Beckmann explains:
The Raspberry Pi Pico emulates a game cartridge by responding to bus requests, providing data which is fetched from the external flash. The IO handling is implemented using the Pico’s unique PIO.
And yes, you can boot Super Mario 64 from the Pico.
While it may take some time for optimization and improvements to bing the necessary stability to the project, it represents an particularly important opportunity for indie game developers working to a tight or non-existent budget. If N64 carts can be built with an affordable Raspberry Pi Pico or simply the RP2040, then the chances of physical releases of games previously only available as ROMs becomes great. Similarly, the costs involved for teams already releasing titles for retro hardware like the N64 drop considerably.
Check Konrad Beckmann’s GitHub to learn more about the project.
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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.
