PicoCart64

Intro

The PicoCart64 is a DIY flash cart for the Nintendo 64. It uses a Raspberry Pi Pico to store the ROM and pretend to be a game cartridge.

More Info:

Check out the GitHub Repo to find the instructions on how to build your own and how to use it!

I was lucky enough to be sent the bare PCB from someone on the PicoCart64 Discord all the way in Sweden!

When compared to more substantial commercial offerings like the EverDrive64 x5 [$119] or EverDrive 64 x7 [$199], there leaves a little bit to be desired.

Cons:

1. It's a bare PCB, it looks dangerous to put into your N64

2. You can only flash 1 game at a time -- there is no game selection menu

3. It's limited to only games that equals the MB size of the Raspberry Pi Pico

4. For example, I had to buy a 3rd party Pico with 16mb of memory

5. Some games in the N64 library are 32mb, which there isn't an option for a ROM that large

6. Flashing a game can be slow

7. Did I mention it looks sketchy putting this flash cart into your N64? I'm really careful putting it into the N64 and worry that the controller cable will disrupt the cartridge in the slot without the support of the plastic case.

Pros:

1. You can in theory play games that are extremely rare. 

2. One example of this is NFL Blitz: Special Edition -- which is different from NFL Blitz, NFL Blitz 2000, & NFL Blitz 2001. This was a Blockbuster exclusive available late in the N64 lifespan and copies only exist because people purchased them directly from Blockbuster. That being said, this particular ROM is too big to fit on the 16mb Raspberry Pi Pico. 

3. You can decide if you really want to buy an official used game -- kinda like GamePass for a Retro Console.

4. You can play ROM Hacks -- like Smash Remix. This is an updated/improved version of Super Smash Bros with some new levels, new characters, and other quality of life improvements.

Pictures