Analogue
ActiveOverview
Analogue is a company that produces hardware for retro gaming, focusing on FPGA-based consoles that emulate original systems without software emulation. It targets enthusiasts seeking authentic gameplay experiences from past gaming eras. The brand is notable for its commitment to hardware fidelity in recreating classic consoles like NES, SNES, and others.
History
Analogue was founded in 2015 by Christopher Taber and Sanni Wessman. Key milestones include the launch of the Analogue NT in 2017, a high-end NES console, followed by the Super NT for SNES in 2018, and the Pocket handheld in 2023. The company has expanded its lineup with systems like the Duo in 2024, maintaining a focus on retro gaming hardware.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Analogue NT (NES) | FPGA-based NES console | $200 - $250 |
| Super NT (SNES) | FPGA-based SNES console | $190 - $220 |
| Mega Sg (Sega Genesis) | FPGA-based Sega Genesis console | $190 - $220 |
| Intellivision Flashback | FPGA-based Intellivision console | $130 - $150 |
| Analogue Duo (PC Engine/TurboGrafx) | FPGA-based PC Engine console | $220 - $250 |
| Analogue Pocket (Handheld) | Portable FPGA gaming handheld | $220 - $250 |
Manufacturing
Products are designed in the United States with headquarters in Seattle. Manufacturing is outsourced to facilities in Asia, typical for consumer electronics. FPGA technology is sourced from vendors like Lattice Semiconductor.
Notable Products
- Analogue Pocket - Handheld device supporting Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and other cartridges via FPGA emulation.
- Analogue Duo - Console recreating PC Engine, TurboGrafx-16, and related systems with HDMI output.
- Super NT - High-definition SNES-compatible console using FPGA for original hardware behavior.
- Analogue NT - HDMI-enabled NES console providing enhanced video output from original cartridges.
- Mega Sg - FPGA recreation of Sega Genesis/Mega Drive with support for original cartridges.
Reputation
Enthusiasts praise Analogue for superior image quality, low input latency, and preservation of original game hardware feel compared to software emulators. Professionals in retro gaming note its role in high-end market but criticize high prices and limited availability due to scalping. Some users report minor compatibility issues with rare cartridges.