The Nintendo 64 is one of the most fondly remembered video game consoles. With unforgettable titles, like GoldenEye 007, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Super Mario 64, the system left an indelible mark on the world of gaming. However, the magic of these classics no longer has to remain in the past. With some of the best N64 emulator options, you can relive these iconic experiences on your computer or smartphone.
Related: interested in more than just N64 emulation? Check out how to emulate Nintendo Switch on PC or play Switch games on your Mac for a more contemporary gaming experience.
1. Best N64 Emulator Overall: Rosalie’s Mupen GUI
Compatibility: Windows and Linux
If you’re a Windows user looking for the best Nintendo 64 emulator, look no further than Rosalie’s Mupen GUI (RMG). With advantaged features in a sleek package, this emulator brings the best of both worlds to all Windows and Linux gamers.
The project had a brief hiatus but made a strong comeback in July 2021. The emulator has several great features, including cheat code support and per-game settings. The latest versions even offer a “grid view” for your games, allowing you to visualize your game library, complete with cover art.
Unfortunately, macOS users who want an N64 emulator cannot use Rosalie’s Mupen GUI. But this open-source program works well on Windows and any Linux flavor.
Pros
- User-friendly GUI
- Per-game settings
- Many features
- Support for plugins
Cons
- Not compatible with macOS
2. Best Multiplatform N64 Emulator: RetroArch
Compatibility: All major operating systems
When it comes to sheer versatility, RetroArch is the best N64 emulator, as it runs on virtually every platform you can think of. For example, if you’re searching for the best N64 emulator for Android, look no further – RetroArch has you covered.
Beyond its multi-platform capabilities, RetroArch has many valuable features, including rewinding, shaders, and built-in input remapping. What’s more, this emulator isn’t just limited to Nintendo 64 games: it’s a frontend that supports many game engines and emulators through modular cores, including Mupen64Plus and many others.
However, this “jack of all trades” approach comes at a cost. While RetroArch is incredibly versatile, its wide array of options can make it a bit daunting for newcomers. The interface, although slick, isn’t as intuitive as some of the more focused Nintendo 64 emulators on this list, especially our top pick.
Pros
- Runs on all major operating systems
- Many advanced features
- Emulates consoles beyond Nintendo 64
Cons
- Unintuitive user interface
Also helpful: are you a fan of other Nintendo consoles? Check out the ultimate guide to SNES emulation using RetroArch.
3. Best N64 Emulator for Visual Accuracy: Ares
Compatibility: Windows, Linux, macOS
Ares is the best choice for pixel-perfect Nintendo 64 emulation, making it a good fit for purists who want to experience games as they were initially designed. Just know that with higher accuracy come higher system requirements.
But don’t let the focus on accuracy make you think Ares is light on features. The emulator offers adaptive sync, dynamic rate control, save states, and color correction. You’ll also find a built-in debugger for those who like to dig deep into their games.
While Ares shines in many departments, it’s important to note that netplay support is currently missing. For those unfamiliar, netplay allows for online multiplayer experiences, something that’s become a staple in modern gaming. This limitation means you won’t be able to enjoy classics like Mario Kart 64 with friends online.
Pros
- High emulation accuracy
- Emulates many different consoles
- Built-in debugger
Cons
- Lacks netplay support
4. Best N64 Emulator for Netplay: simple64
Compatibility: Windows and Linux
If you’re itching to relive the glory days of classic games, like Mario Kart 64 or Super Smash Bros, with your friends online, then look no further. Simple64 is the best N64 for PC thanks to its excellent netplay support, providing a seamless multiplayer experience.
The emulator uses a central server hosted in the cloud, making it easy to find multiplayer sessions. It also integrates with Discord, offering Rich Presence and automatic voice channel connectivity so that you can trash-talk or strategize in real time.
The project has seen many updates lately, including a significant overhaul of its core timing code, making it more in line with high-accuracy emulators, like Ares. However, this surge in accuracy also introduced a few compatibility issues, so you may have to consult the “known issues” list or revert to an older version when playing some games.
Pros
- Excellent netplay support
- Great emulation accuracy
- Convenient auto-updater
Cons
- Only compatible with Windows and Linux
- Known compatibility issues
Good to know: these online multiplayer games make it easy to spend time with friends.
5. Best N64 Emulator for Retro Achievements: BizHawk
Compatibility: Windows and Linux
If collecting Retro Achievements (digital badges honor that your ability to tackle specific challenges that didn’t originally exist in old-school games) gets your heart pounding, then BizHawk should be your go-to choice among the best N64 emulators for PC.
But excellent support for Retro Achievements isn’t all BizHawk brings to the table. This emulator is primarily designed for tool-assisted speedruns (TAS), a type of gameplay where players use emulators and scripting to create the fastest or most optimized game playthrough.
As this emulator is made for hardcore enthusiasts, there’s a bit of a learning curve. But if you’re willing to put in the time, you’ll find that BizHawk can be one of the most rewarding experiences among the best N64 emulators.
Pros
- Support for retro achievements
- Many speedrunning features
- Compatible with many different cores
Cons
- Windows and Linux only
- Takes some effort to learn
Do you crave more emulation fun? If so, our ultimate guide to the Dolphin Emulator is just what you need to enjoy your favorite GameCube and Wii games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Xbox Series X gamepad to play Nintendo 64 games?
You can use an Xbox Series X gamepad to play Nintendo 64 games through emulation. However, you must manually map the buttons within the emulator’s settings to match the Nintendo 64’s original control layout.
Is Nintendo 64 emulation legal?
Emulating Nintendo 64 games is legal if you use legally obtained ROMs.
Where can I legally obtain Nintendo 64 ROMs?
To obtain Nintendo 64 ROMs legally, dump the ROM files from your own Nintendo 64 cartridges. This requires specialized hardware and software but ensures you’re not violating copyright laws.
Do Nintendo 64 emulators support local split screen?
Yes, most Nintendo 64 emulators support local split-screen gameplay, just like the original console. You can enjoy multiplayer games like GoldenEye 007 or Mario Kart 64 with your friends on the same device.
Image credit: Unsplash. All screenshots by David Morelo.
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