Are you ready to play N64 games on your Windows PC? You need to choose an N64 emulators compatible with your PC. In this article, we will share the best Nintendo 64 emulators for Windows PCs. Keep reading to explore more.
About N64
N64 is Nintendo’s third-generation gaming console. Nintendo 64 is the successor of the Super Nintendo. This N64 was launched in Japan on 23rd June 1996 before launching in North America, Australia, and Europe.
This gaming console includes an analog joystick, trigger button, and vibration function. Besides these things, many classic games like Super Mario 64 or Ocarina of Time were born on Nintendo 64.
Best N64 Emulators
If you are ready to play classic N64 games on a Windows PC, you need a compatible N64 emulator first. The good part is there are some excellent N64 emulators available for PC. Keep reading the following section and let’s find out more about them:
1. Project 64
Project 64 is the best software for Windows PC users. This emulator started with a closed-source system, but Zilmar disclosed the source code in 2013, making Project 64 an open-source emulator.
Pros:
- One-click installer
- Portable version available
- Supports various cheat codes
- Full Gamepad and Joystick supports
Cons:
- The software is still 32-bit
- Only compatible with Windows and Android
2. Mupen64plus
Mupen64plus is an excellent emulator that gives a better audio experience. If you face trouble using Project 64, use Mupen64plus as an alternative.
Pros:
- Compatible with Windows, Linux, Android, and Mac.
- Has wide plugin support
- Has both 32-bit and 64-bit
Cons:
- Lacks a debugger
- Complicated to set up compared to other N64 emulators.
3. RetroArch
RetroArch is one of the best N64 emulators that provides excellent performance. Plus, it can emulate various games like Arcade, Atari, Dreamcast, N64, 3DO, etc.
Pros:
- Customizable options available
- High-resolution visuals
- Supports Gamepad and Joystick
Cons:
- Hard to understand the function
4. RMG
Rosalie’s Mupen is based on Mupen64plus. Developed by Rosalie, this emulator takes aspects of Project 64 and mixes them with Mupen64.
Pros:
- Advanced features available
- Users can enjoy both Project 64 and Mupen64 aspects
Cons:
- Only available for Windows PC and Android.
5. 1964
1964 is an excellent N64 emulator, loved by Windows PC users. The best thing about this N64 emulator is it allows users to customize ROMs. That means you can use your own cheat codes.
Pros:
- Can customize ROMs
- Easy to play and understand.
Cons:
- 1964 often crashes, making it hard for users.
6. Nemu64
Another excellent N64 emulator for Windows PC is Nemu64. It’s a good emulator for the beginners but don’t expect too much from this software.
Pros:
- Easy to understand and play
- Compatible with every Windows PC
Cons:
- A closed source
- Only available for Windows PC
7. Cen64
Cen64 is an amazing alternative to Project64. Despite still being in the development stage, this software can give you an excellent experience.
Pros:
- Available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux
Cons:
- Cen64 is still in the development stage
Conclusion
Even though there are various options available, you have to be careful while choosing the best N64 emulators. Do some research and have the best experience with your favorite N64 software.
FAQs
As per most users, Project 64 is the best N64 emulator. However, you can also go for alternatives like Mupen64plus, Nemu64, or RetroArch.
Yes, Project 64 has several alternatives like Mupen64plus, RMG, Nemu64, and 1964.
Yes, Mupen64plus supports several operating systems like Android, Mac, and Linux.