Top 3 Best N64 Emulators for Windows PC

Top 3 Best N64 Emulators

The Nintendo 64 (N64) revolutionized gaming with its groundbreaking titles like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007. Emulating N64 games on a Windows PC can bring those classics back to life with enhanced visuals, improved controls, and modern features. However, N64 emulation can be tricky due to the complexity of the system’s hardware. Here’s a breakdown of the top 3 best N64 emulators for Windows, ranked from least suggested to top recommended.

3. Project64

Why it’s recommended: Project64 is one of the most popular N64 emulators and has been around for years. It’s well-known for being user-friendly and packed with features that enhance the gaming experience. With an active community and ongoing development, Project64 is a solid option for casual gamers who want a simple way to play their favorite N64 games.

Features and benefits:

• Easy setup and use: Project64 is widely regarded as the easiest N64 emulator to set up and start playing. The simple interface allows even beginners to configure settings quickly.
• Plugin system: Project64 uses a plugin-based architecture that allows users to swap in different video, audio, and input plugins, giving them flexibility in how the emulator runs games.
• Controller support: You can use various controllers with Project64, including USB gamepads or N64-style controllers, enhancing the retro gaming experience.
• Save states and cheat support: Players can use save states to save progress at any point and enable cheat codes to modify gameplay.
• Customizable graphics: The emulator offers options to upscale graphics, improve textures, and enhance the resolution for a more modern look.

Why it’s third: While Project64 has many features and a dedicated fan base, it is known for occasional glitches and inaccuracies in certain games. Some titles may have graphical or audio issues, and the emulator’s plugin system can be tricky to configure for optimal performance. Additionally, its reputation has been slightly marred by adware in certain versions, although a clean, ad-free version is available on the official website. Project64 is a great choice for those looking for an easy-to-use emulator, but better options are available for those seeking more accurate emulation.

2. Mupen64Plus

Why it’s recommended: Mupen64Plus is an open-source N64 emulator known for its high compatibility and cross-platform support. It has been steadily updated by the community, providing ongoing improvements in performance and accuracy. While it doesn’t have a native GUI (Graphical User Interface), it’s typically bundled with front-end interfaces like M64Py for ease of use on Windows.

Features and benefits:

• High compatibility: Mupen64Plus offers excellent compatibility with a wide range of N64 games, including titles that are tricky to run on other emulators.
• Plugin-based system: Like Project64, Mupen64Plus uses a plugin system for customizing video, audio, and input settings. This allows users to fine-tune their experience based on their hardware.
• Multiple front-end support: While Mupen64Plus itself doesn’t have a GUI, it is often paired with front-ends like M64Py or integrated into RetroArch to give it a user-friendly interface.
• Active development: The emulator is regularly updated with bug fixes, optimizations, and compatibility improvements, ensuring it keeps up with modern systems and evolving user needs.
• Wide platform support: In addition to Windows, Mupen64Plus runs on Linux, macOS, Android, and even some game consoles, making it a versatile choice for N64 emulation across devices.

Why it’s second: Mupen64Plus is a fantastic emulator in terms of accuracy and compatibility, and it runs most games smoothly. However, the lack of an integrated GUI may make it less accessible to casual users, as setting it up with a front-end can be a bit more involved compared to other emulators. While it is incredibly powerful once configured, it may not be the most convenient option for those new to N64 emulation or who want an out-of-the-box solution.

1. BizHawk

Why it’s top recommended: BizHawk is more than just an N64 emulator; it’s a multi-system emulator designed for speedrunners and retro gaming enthusiasts who want accurate emulation across several platforms. It shines particularly in its ability to offer highly accurate N64 emulation while also providing robust tools for casual play and advanced features for more technical uses. Built on top of the Mupen64Plus core, BizHawk offers excellent performance with the added benefit of an easy-to-use GUI and advanced options.

Features and benefits:

• Multi-system support: BizHawk can emulate not only the N64 but also consoles like the NES, SNES, Game Boy, PlayStation, and more. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers who want a one-stop solution for all their emulation needs.
• Accurate N64 emulation: BizHawk uses the Mupen64Plus core for N64 games, ensuring high accuracy and compatibility. It emulates many games flawlessly, offering smoother gameplay and fewer glitches.
• Easy-to-use interface: Unlike Mupen64Plus, BizHawk has an integrated GUI that’s user-friendly and accessible for beginners.
• Save states, fast-forwarding, and rewinding: BizHawk offers advanced tools like save states, fast-forwarding, and rewinding, allowing players to manipulate time in their games, which is especially useful for difficult sections.
• Tool-Assisted Speedrun (TAS) tools: BizHawk is highly popular among speedrunners for its TAS features, which allow precise input recording and replay, helping players optimize their runs to perfection.
• Active development: BizHawk is actively maintained, with frequent updates ensuring continued improvements and support for newer hardware.

Why it’s number one: BizHawk stands out not only for its excellent N64 emulation but also for its versatility and ease of use. It combines the accuracy of Mupen64Plus with a user-friendly interface and advanced features, making it the best option for both casual players and those interested in more technical uses like speedrunning or ROM hacking. Its ability to emulate multiple systems in one package is a huge bonus, putting it at the top of the list for N64 emulation.

Conclusion

Emulators make it possible to relive the classic N64 experience on modern PCs, but it’s essential to stay mindful of the legalities surrounding ROMs. Downloading ROMs for games you don’t own can violate copyright laws. To enjoy N64 classics legally, consider using services like Nintendo Switch Online, which offers a variety of N64 titles. These platforms allow you to experience retro gaming while supporting the developers and maintaining legal integrity. Or you can play N64 games right here, at Rec0deD:88.