The M64 Is a Pixel-Perfect Nintendo 64 Remake

If you want to relive the glory days of classic gaming, software emulation is usually the go-to way to do it. For most people, the emulation experience is good enough. However, it’s not perfect, and purists will immediately recognize even the smallest of imperfections. For these hard-to-please individuals, playing the games on real vintage hardware is the only acceptable option.

Unfortunately, this will not always be practical. As time goes by, finding original hardware that is still in good operating condition will grow more difficult. On top of that, older consoles were designed for use with different TV technologies, which makes hooking them up to modern equipment a challenge.

It’s kind of sad to think that these classic game systems are slowly vanishing, isn’t it? The good news is that the situation isn’t quite as bad as it seems. There is a middle ground between original hardware and software emulation: FPGAs. An FPGA can perfectly reproduce the original circuits in hardware to provide an authentic experience that is indistinguishable from that of a vintage machine.

The fan-favorite Nintendo 64 is the latest classic system to get the FPGA treatment with ModRetro’s M64. It is powered by an AMD Artix UltraScale+ FPGA, which is programmed to operate exactly like Nintendo’s hardware. It even loads games from real Nintendo 64 cartridges. Anyone up for a round of Mario Kart 64?

The system is based on the open-source Nintendo 64 MiSTer FPGA core originally created by Robert Peip. ModRetro says they have heavily optimized the design for AMD’s newer Artix UltraScale+ architecture and plan to contribute their improvements back to the community after launch.

The M64 console supports original cartridges through a dedicated cartridge slot and includes four front-facing controller ports compatible with vintage Nintendo 64 controllers and accessories such as Rumble Paks and Transfer Paks. Modern wireless options are supported too, including Nintendo Switch Online N64 controllers and 8BitDo gamepads.

ModRetro is also introducing a redesigned M64 Pro controller inspired by the classic trident layout. The updated controller swaps the failure-prone analog stick mechanism of the original gamepad for a modern TMR magnetic joystick intended to eliminate drift issues. It can operate wirelessly over Bluetooth or through a wired USB connection.

Authenticity may be the focus, but the M64 still sneaks in some modern conveniences. HDMI output allows the system to connect directly to modern TVs, complete with optional scanline and CRT-style filters. Wi-Fi support enables firmware updates, and three USB-C ports provide connectivity for accessories and power. A microSD card slot is also included for possible homebrew applications.

The ModRetro M64 is scheduled to ship on July 28, 2026 for $229.99 with one controller included. If you’d like one of those shipments to come your way, be sure to sign up for notifications so you can be among the first to purchase an M64.