ModRetro leverages AMD FPGAs for upcoming N64-compatible console

ModRetro has announced its upcoming M64 gaming console, designed to play original Nintendo N64 cartridges. Built with AMD Artix UltraScale+ FPGAs, the new console aims to replicate the original console at the hardware level rather than relying on software emulation.

ModRetro focuses on manufacturing retro gaming systems that support original physical cartridges. One such example is the Chromatic, a handheld console designed for original Game Boy and Game Boy Color cartridges.

The company drew on its prior experience to power its new M64 console with AMD's Artix UltraScale+ FPGA. The console recreates classic gameplay by directly emulating the original hardware chip logic, which the company claims delivers greater accuracy and lower latency than software emulation. The company also stated that the design mimics the original system's behaviour, matching everything from controller inputs to on-screen responses.

Those interested in the ModRetro M64 can sign up to get notified when the console launches on the official product page. The console is scheduled to begin shipping on July 28th.

KitGuru says: FPGA-based hardware emulation is an excellent way to preserve classic games without the accuracy issues of software emulation.

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