ModRetro’s M64 is the N64 retro revival console of my desires

Following up the Sport Boy-inspired Chromatic’s launch final yr, ModRetro has lastly formally revealed the design of its Nintendo 64 remake console. Just like the just lately launched Analogue 3D, the M64 performs traditional N64 cartridges in 4K by way of an FPGA chip.

It is essential to notice that ModRetro was based by Palmer Luckey, a controversial tech trade determine that based Oculus and that is additionally behind protection contractor Anduril. Luckey has been teasing particulars concerning the M64 on X for a number of months now. Whereas we nonetheless aren’t conscious of each element concerning the console, we now at the very least know what it appears to be like like — and as anticipated, it includes a hanging design.

Just like the way more low-key Analogue 3D, the M64’s look is impressed by Nintendo’s authentic Nintendo 64, together with its curved prime, distinguished controller ports (which work with the unique N64’s {hardware}), acquainted cartridge slot, and energy button, alongside an odd-looking dial button that is labeled “Menu.” It is unclear what this dial will do past navigating on-screen menus, however the truth that it is so prominently positioned on the console hints that it may need one other objective. The again of the M64 options an HDMI port, three USB-C ports, and a microSD card slot.

The M64’s flashy design is undeniably eye-catching

I am a sucker for translucent tech

The console includes a translucent design in inexperienced, purple, and white, together with three color-matched controllers. The controller appears to be like like a extra fashionable tackle the unique N64 gamepad, full with its awkwardly positioned three prongs. The Analogue 3D took a unique method and labored with 8BitDo to create a more ergonomic gamepad that strays farther away from the N64 controller’s conventional look.

In a put up on X earlier this week, Luckey famous that the M64’s pricing continues to be $200 (the identical value as the unique N64 again in 1996), however that the associated fee may improve within the close to future. In a follow-up X put up, Luckey mentioned that whereas the M64 is suitable with retro N64 cartridges, a “loopy good library of latest, previous, and by no means launched titles” is on the best way, much like the Chromatic. Although you possibly can’t at present buy the M64, you possibly can be a part of a wait checklist.

Whereas the M64 is undeniably higher trying than the Analogue 3D and in addition $70 cheaper, Luckey’s controversial historical past all the time leaves me torn when Mod Retro pronounces new video games or merchandise. That mentioned, I am to see how the console compares to the Analogue 3D, and will probably be fascinating to see what unreleased Nintendo 64 video games will make their method to the M64.