TL;DR
Analogue has rolled out a firmware update for its Analogue 3D console, enabling save states—a feature long requested by users. This update improves gameplay flexibility and emulation quality.
Analogue has released a firmware update for its Analogue 3D console that introduces save state functionality, allowing players to save and resume gameplay at any point. This feature, highly anticipated by users, enhances the overall gaming experience and addresses previous limitations of the device.
The firmware update, version 1.3.0, was made available on May 15, 2026. It adds the Memories save state feature first introduced with Analogue’s handheld Pocket device, enabling users to save game progress at any moment and continue later from the same spot. While the feature was announced alongside the console in October 2024, it was not initially available due to software delays.
In addition to save states, the update improves support for multi-title flash carts, allowing the console to detect game switches and create individual Virtual Controller Pak saves. The update also enhances HDR capabilities, better emulating the look of CRT TVs on modern OLED screens. Notably, the Virtual Controller Pak option remains unavailable when using original or wired N64 controllers, a limitation that persists despite the firmware update.
Why It Matters
This development is significant because it addresses a long-standing user request for save states, a feature standard on many emulators and modern gaming devices. It improves the usability of the Analogue 3D, making it more appealing to collectors and enthusiasts who want more flexibility during gameplay. The update also demonstrates Analogue’s commitment to refining its hardware through software enhancements, potentially influencing future retro console designs and firmware support.
Nintendo 64 FPGA clone with save states
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Background
The Analogue 3D is a high-end, FPGA-based clone of the Nintendo 64, launched in late 2024. Initially, it lacked save state functionality, which was a notable omission given the popularity of such features in modern gaming and emulation. The company announced plans to add this feature in October 2024, but it was delayed until now. Previous updates improved support for multi-game carts and HDR emulation, but the addition of save states marks a major milestone in the device’s software lifecycle.
“The firmware update, version 1.3.0, was made available on May 15, 2026, adding the long-awaited Memories save state feature to the Analogue 3D.”
— Andrew Liszewski, The Verge
“The update improves support for multi-title flash carts and enhances HDR capabilities, bringing the Analogue 3D closer to the experience of original hardware.”
— Analogue official statement
Analogue 3D firmware update
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
What Remains Unclear
It is not yet clear when or if the Virtual Controller Pak support will be added for original or wired N64 controllers. The availability of future updates to enable this feature remains uncertain, as does the potential for further enhancements to save functionality or other emulation features.
retro gaming console with save states
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
What’s Next
Following this update, Analogue is expected to continue refining the firmware, possibly addressing controller compatibility issues and introducing new features. Users will likely await confirmation of Virtual Controller Pak support and further emulation improvements in upcoming updates.
emulation HDR CRT TV
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Key Questions
How do I install the firmware update for the Analogue 3D?
You can download the firmware version 1.3.0 from the official Analogue website and follow the provided installation guide to update your device.
Does the save state feature work with all games on the Analogue 3D?
Yes, the save state feature is designed to work with all supported games, allowing you to save at any point and resume later from that exact spot.
Will Virtual Controller Pak support be added in future updates?
It has not been confirmed whether Virtual Controller Pak support for original or wired controllers will be added. Users should stay tuned for future announcements.
Are there any limitations to the new save states feature?
Currently, save states are supported, but the Virtual Controller Pak option remains unavailable with original or wired controllers, which may limit certain functionalities.
