First Look: M64 Console Hardware and Controller Revealed
▼ Summary
– ModRetro has officially revealed its M64 console, a modern tribute to the Nintendo 64 with several design changes.
– The M64 features a translucent plastic shell, four controller ports, a large power button, and a cartridge slot for original N64 games.
– The M64 controller has a trident-shaped design with a translucent top half and solid grey bottom half, similar to the original.
– The system uses FPGA technology to authentically replicate N64 performance and supports HDMI output for modern TVs.
– The M64 will be priced at $200, which is lower than the Analogue 3D’s increased price of $270.
The highly anticipated M64 console and controller from ModRetro have finally been unveiled, offering a fresh take on classic Nintendo 64 hardware. Designed as a modern tribute, the system maintains the nostalgic silhouette of the original while introducing several contemporary design elements. Its most eye-catching feature is a fully translucent plastic shell, providing a clear view of the internal components. The front panel includes four controller ports, a substantial power button, a menu dial, and a slot compatible with original N64 game cartridges.
Matching the console’s aesthetic, the M64 controller echoes the iconic trident shape of its predecessor. It incorporates an array of face buttons, a directional pad, and a centrally positioned thumbstick. The controller’s top half utilizes the same see-through plastic as the console, contrasted by a solid grey lower section. This two-tone design creates a visually striking accessory that honors the past while feeling distinctly modern.
This design philosophy aligns with ModRetro’s earlier release, the Chromatic handheld. Much like that device, the M64 strives to deliver an authentic retro gaming experience enhanced for contemporary displays. The console employs an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) to accurately replicate the N64’s performance. For enthusiasts, this method is widely regarded as the superior way to enjoy classic games in high definition through an HDMI connection on modern televisions.
The M64 enters a market recently stirred by the Analogue 3D, a competing modernized N64. Analogue has reopened preorders for its system, though recent tariff adjustments have driven the price upward. The console now costs $270, a $20 increase from its original $250 price point, applicable solely to new orders. In this competitive landscape, the M64 positions itself as a more budget-friendly alternative, with a planned launch price of $200 when its own preorders commence.
(Source: GameSpot)
