Analogue 3D delayed again: a new wait challenge for Nintendo 64 fans

Retro gaming enthusiasts hoping to relive the Nintendo 64 era in pristine 4K fidelity will have to wait a little longer. Analogue, the boutique hardware maker known for its FPGA-powered consoles, has officially announced another delay for its highly anticipated Analogue 3D system. Originally slated for Q1 2025, the console is now expected to ship in July 2025, citing logistical challenges and recent tariff changes.

What Is Analogue 3D?

The Analogue 3D is not just another retro console—it’s a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) recreation of the Nintendo 64, designed to run original cartridges with zero emulation. That means no input lag, no graphical inaccuracies, and no audio hiccups. It’s engineered to deliver the N64 experience as authentically as possible, but with modern enhancements like:

4K HDMI output with CRT-style display modes
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support
Four original-style controller ports
Region-free cartridge compatibility
A custom OS called 3D OS, tailored for N64 exploration

Analogue spent nearly four years developing this system, aiming to overcome the notorious challenges of N64 emulation and preserve its legacy with uncompromising accuracy.

The latest setback stems from a mix of production bottlenecks and new import tariffs affecting East Asian electronics. Analogue confirmed that it’s absorbing the additional costs to avoid passing them on to customers, maintaining the original $249.99 price tag. While the company didn’t provide granular details, it reassured pre-order holders that no action is needed and full refunds are available upon request.

This isn’t the first delay for Analogue 3D. The console was first teased in 2023, with a projected 2024 launch. Since then, it’s faced multiple pushbacks, reflecting the complexity of FPGA development and the company’s commitment to quality.

For preservationists and retro gaming purists, Analogue 3D represents more than just nostalgia—it’s a technological milestone. The N64 has long been one of the most difficult systems to emulate accurately, and Analogue’s FPGA approach could finally offer a definitive solution. With features like CRT reference display modes and support for original accessories, it’s a love letter to the golden age of couch co-op and cartridge gaming.