When discussing N64 emulators, several authoritative sources have provided insights into their usage, performance, and popularity. For example, a report by Statista indicates that the demand for retro gaming, including N64 emulation, has surged in recent years, with over 40% of gamers expressing interest in playing classic games on modern devices.H ave you ever wanted to play old Nintendo 64 games on your device? If yes, you may have probably heard about an N64 emulator. Basically, it’s a simple program that lets you enjoy classic games like Super Mario 64 or Zelda. You don’t even need the original console if you have this emulator.
However, many people still have questions about how it works and whether it’s legal or illegal, and which one is perfect. In this blog, we will answer some common questions about the N64 emulator.
What is an N64 emulator?
In simple words, an N64 emulator is a computer program. It lets you play old Nintendo 64 games. You can play such games on a phone, tablet, or computer. Even if you don’t have the original game console, you can still play them with the help of an emulator.
To make it simpler, think of it like this:
The Nintendo 64 was a video game machine from the 90s. And an emulator is like a pretend version of that machine. It works inside your current device. By having this, you can enjoy the same games and don’t even need the old hardware. It’s just like using a mobile app to open a book from a library that closed years ago.
You need this emulator the most because a Nintendo 64 game is made to work only on the Nintendo 64 console. And we don’t use that console anymore. What we use are phones, laptops, or tablets. Have you ever thought about how an N64 emulator helps? Let’s read its fundamental principle.
Fundamental principles of the N64 emulator
The Game File (ROM):
The game is saved as a ROM file. It’s like a copy of the original game. It is just stored in your device.
The Emulator (The Translator):
Then, an emulator acts like a translator. It takes the ROM. After taking the emulator translates it into a language your device understands.
Playing the Game:
Once the emulator translates the game, your device can show the game and play the music. Also, it lets you control it. This may seem exactly like the real Nintendo 64.
Hence, the ROM is the game. The emulator is the translator. And together, they let your modern device play old games.
Best N64 emulators in 2025 (Windows, Mac, Android)
N64 Emulators for Windows
Take control and keep them safe!
1. Project64 (Windows only)
Project64 is the most popular N64 emulator for Windows. It is free and open-source. This emulator lets you play N64 games on your PC with improved graphics and customizable controls.
- Easy-to-use design
- Supports plugins
- Save game progress anytime
- It is super simple for beginners
- It works with most games
- Ad-supported installer
- Occasional compatibility issues
2. RetroArch(Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, IOS)
RetroArch is more than just an emulator. It’s a framework that uses “cores” for different systems, including N64. It provides cross-platform consistency. Due to this, you can sync your settings and play styles across devices.
- It lets you customize graphics
- RetroArch supports cheat codes
- It saves states
- RetroArch offers multi-system support
- You can get shaders and netplay
- The interface and setup can be confusing for beginners.
- Some cores may run poorly on lower-end hardware.
Best N64 Emulators for Mac
1. OpenEmu(Mac only)
OpenEmu is designed to give Mac users a polished and console-like experience for retro gaming. It automatically organizes your ROMs into a clean library with cover art. The software also integrates multiple emulation cores. So, you can manage different classic consoles in one place.
- It offers a drag-and-drop game library.
- Provides gamepad support
- You can get save/load options
- Looks clean
- Super easy to use
- Mac-only availability
- Limited advanced features
2. Mupen64Plus(Mac, Linux, Android)
Mupen64Plus is often praised by enthusiasts for its focus on emulation accuracy rather than flashy extras. It supports multiple video plugins. This makes it a favorite among those who like tweaking performance.
- Good graphic quality
- Great performance
- Supports different plugins
- Runs games smoothly
- Used by emulators as a base
- Harder to set up
- No built-in user interface unless paired with other apps.
Best N64 Emulators for Android
1. ClassicBoy(Android)
ClassicBoy is well-suited for gamers who enjoy retro gaming on the go, since it covers more than just the N64. It has strong support for external controllers. This is a big plus for mobile play. Over the years, it has gained popularity as an all-in-one retro gaming app for Android.
- Gesture controls
- Supports Bluetooth controllers
- Customizable settings
- Great for touchscreen play
- Good for casual users
- Some features need payment
- You may face occasional bugs
2. Mupen64Plus FZ(Android)
Mupen64Plus FZ is often considered the best mobile N64 emulator due to its performance. The developer actively updates it. This ensures strong compatibility with many titles. Advanced users enjoy the control it gives over video and audio plugins for a smoother gaming experience.
- Good graphics
- Customization options available
- Frequent updates
- Excellent game compatibility
- Support cheat codes
- Setup may take time
- Complex for beginners
If you’re a beginner, Project64 (Windows) and OpenEmu (Mac) are the easiest to start with. For Android users, ClassicBoy is simple and works well with touchscreens.
Which games can you play in N64 emulators?
Super Mario 64
Yoy can play Super Mario 64 and explore magical worlds through paintings in a castle. The goal is to collect stars, defeat enemies, and save Princess Peach from Bowser. It’s full of fun jumps, puzzles, and colorful levels.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
In this game, you play as Link, a young hero on a journey to stop an evil ruler. You explore forests, dungeons, and temples, solving puzzles and fighting monsters using a sword, shield, and magical ocarina.
GoldenEye 007
Your role is James Bond, the secret agent, and complete spy missions filled with shooting, stealth, and action. It’s known for fun multiplayer battles and exciting levels set in places like snowy bases and secret labs.
Mario Kart 64
Mario Kart 64 is also available in an N64 emulator. It is a racing game with Mario and friends driving go-karts. You race on crazy tracks, use fun items like banana peels and shells to slow others down, and try to win first place in every race.
Donkey Kong 64
The other game is Donkey Kong 64. In this game, you play as Donkey Kong and his friends, exploring jungles and caves to collect bananas and rescue kidnapped allies. Each character has special abilities to solve puzzles, beat enemies, and unlock new areas.
Banjo-Kazooie
Let’s jump into knowing about Banjo-Kazooie. You play as a bear named Banjo and his bird friend Kazooie. You explore colorful worlds, collect puzzle pieces, and defeat a wicked witch who kidnapped Banjo’s sister. It’s funny, lighthearted, and full of clever challenges.
Star Fox 64
You control a spaceship as Fox McCloud and fight in space battles to stop an evil scientist. The game is full of flying missions, talking animal characters, and action-packed shooting in the sky and space.
Where to find N64 ROMs safely?
Legal & Safe Method
If you want to get N64 ROMs safely, then you should make a digital copy of your own original game cartridges. This method is called “backing up” your game. While copying, you will need a small device. It is named the cartridge dumper. This device reads the game and saves it to your computer. It may take time to set up. But this is the most legal option, as you already own the game.
The best thing is that you don’t need to break copyright laws if you use this method. Also, it can protect your device from harmful downloads. If you are unsure, it’s better to read helpful guides first. Such guides are available online to let you know the process.
If you download ROMs from random websites, you may be creating a risk. Why? Some of these sites offer games for free, but the files can be fake. Also, there are chances that such files are infected with viruses. Once the virus enters your computer, it may slow down the processing. It may also steal your information or even stop your device from working.
Is using an N64 emulator legal?
The answer is yes. When you use the N65 emulator, it is legal. It is not just a tool. Mainly, it’s like a virtual game console inside your computer or phone. If you install the emulator, there’s nothing wrong.
However, the legal problem comes from how you get the game files. In case you download a ROM for a game you don’t own, that’s illegal. But if you already own the original game cartridge, it is completely legal to make a copy and use it with an emulator. So, don’t worry! An N64 emulator keeps you in the law.
How can parents guide Safe Use?
In many cases, children get excited and want to download emulators to play games right away. They usually don’t know what’s safe or legal. And some websites take advantage of this innocence. The website offers games that can be dangerous or break copyright rules.
To protect kids from such risks, parents can use apps like FlashGet Kids. By doing so, your kids can enjoy safe gaming while learn good habits. It gives parents the peace of mind. Also, such apps allow them to have a control play on modern devices.
Let’s know the features of FlashGet Kids:
- Control over downloads: This tool lets you control what your child can download.
- Select daily time limits: By using this tool, you can set daily time limits for game use.
- Real-time monitoring: FlashGet Kids helps you monitor what’s running on your kid’s phone.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you use an N64 emulator, it is legal. But if you download games you don’t own and then use an emulator, it is illegal. To stay safe and follow the law, the best way is to use your own game cartridges to create ROMs. Also, parents should guide their children by using tools that control screens.
By doing so, they can block risky downloads and manage gaming time. To make retro gaming fun and safe, all you need is to use the right precautions.
FAQ
Yes. You can play N64 games online with some emulators. It is known as “netplay.” Some types of emulators, like Project64 and RetroArch, support this feature. Players of both emulators need the same game file (ROM). Also, they both need the same version and a good internet connection.
The Ares N64 emulator is popular for focusing on accuracy. It tries to make games run exactly like they did on the original Nintendo 64 console. Many tech experts praise it for being very close to the real thing. However, Ares is still newer compared to others like Project64 or Mupen64Plus. So, it may not support every single game yet.
