ModRetro has officially revealed its M64 console, marking a significant entry into the modern retro gaming hardware market. The device represents a 4K-capable Nintendo 64 clone featuring an FPGA architecture powered by AMD hardware, priced at $199—matching the original N64's launch price from 1996.
Most notably, ModRetro chose to recreate the N64's iconic three-pronged controller design rather than modernize it, distinguishing the M64 from its primary competitor, the Analogue 3D.
The M64's design closely mirrors the original Nintendo 64, featuring a softly rounded top panel, a cartridge slot positioned on top, and four front-facing controller ports for original N64 wired gamepads.
A power button occupies one corner of the top panel, while a rotary dial marked "Menu" sits at the opposite corner, intended for navigating on-screen menus though its full functionality remains unclear. The rear of the console houses an HDMI port, three USB ports, and a microSD card slot for save states and homebrew content.
The most distinctive feature is the console's translucent plastic casing, which reveals the internal components. The M64 will be available in three color variants: green, purple, and white, each accompanied by matching wireless controllers.
The controller design represents ModRetro's deliberate choice to prioritize authenticity over modernization. Unlike Analogue's partnership with 8BitDo to create contemporary controllers featuring similar button arrangements and thumbstick layouts, ModRetro's M64 controllers closely resemble the original N64 gamepads.
They maintain the controversial three-pronged shape with the joystick positioned atop the central grip and a trigger button located underneath.
The controllers feature a translucent plastic top half with a solid grey bottom half. A small door appears on the back panel, likely serving battery housing or wireless communication purposes.
The joystick gates are slightly offset compared to original N64 controllers, and the wireless controllers charge via USB-C.
The M64 supports multiple control options: users can connect original wired N64 controllers via the front ports, use the included wireless M64 controllers, or potentially employ other compatible controllers through USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
The exact compatibility details with third-party controllers remain unclear.
Technically, the M64 outputs games at 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, utilizing an FPGA implementation of the N64 architecture. The system uses a core initially developed by Robert Peip for the MiSTer FPGA platform and has been optimized for ModRetro's more powerful AMD FPGA chip.
Unlike the Analogue 3D's closed ecosystem, ModRetro has indicated plans to leave the M64's system partially open, potentially allowing development and use of additional FPGA cores beyond N64 emulation.
Palmer Luckey, ModRetro's founder and a controversial figure associated with defense contractor Anduril Industries, announced the M64's $199 price point on X (formerly Twitter).
The early bird pricing, initially available exclusively to those who joined the waitlist on ModRetro's website, has been extended to all customers, at least temporarily. Luckey emphasized the price remains stable despite inflationary pressures, component shortages, and tariffs.
The console plays original N64 game cartridges through its cartridge slot and operates via USB Type-C power connection.
ModRetro has indicated future publishing plans for new game releases compatible with N64 cartridge-playing hardware, though complete details remain pending.
The M64 positions itself as a more affordable alternative to the Analogue 3D, which retails for $250. Luckey has cited lower latency, open-source hardware, superior compatibility with modern televisions, and relative affordability as advantages over competitors.
The device represents ModRetro's second major hardware release following the successful Chromatic Game Boy, which launched in December 2024.
The full hardware specifications and final release date remain partially undisclosed, though ModRetro revealed details during a Black Friday announcement following months of social media teasers.
