N64 Emulator

N64 Emulator

Project64 is a free, open-source Nintendo 64 emulator for Windows PC. Play your N64 and 64DD games on a modern computer with high-definition graphics, save states, controller support, fullscreen play, and built-in cheats - easy to set up for new players, and deeply configurable for everyone else.

Download Project64See features
  • Free and open source
  • Built for Nintendo 64 & 64DD
  • Designed for Windows PC

Download Project64 for Windows

Two ways to get the latest Project64 release. Most players should choose the installer; pick the zip package only if you prefer manual file management.

Installer

Recommended

The simplest option for most users. The installer sets up Project64 on Windows in a few clicks and is the most straightforward way to get from download to gameplay.

Download Installer

Zip package

Portable

A portable-style setup for users who prefer to manage files manually or keep Project64 in a specific folder. Just extract the archive and run the emulator.

Download Zip

Project64 is free and open source. Games and ROMs are not included - use only legally obtained game files.

A better way to play Nintendo 64 games on PC

Project64 recreates the N64 experience on Windows while adding the conveniences of a modern emulator: sharper visuals, instant saves, configurable controls, and compatibility-focused settings.

Simple enough to start fast

Project64 works without forcing every user through manual configuration. For many compatible games the default setup is enough to begin playing quickly, with a lightweight download and a straightforward interface.

Powerful enough to tune

When you want more control, Project64 exposes deep settings for graphics, audio, input, plugins, and emulation behavior, so you can match each game, controller, and PC.

Built for classic N64 games

N64 emulation has its own quirks: unusual graphics behavior, the distinctive controller, save systems, and game-specific timing. Project64 is built around that console generation, not a generic emulator directory.

Open source and community-driven

Project64 is free and open source, with public code and a long development history. That means transparency, preservation, and years of community testing behind every release.

Main features

High-definition graphics

Render compatible Nintendo 64 games at higher resolutions than original hardware. Paired with the right video plugin and display settings, classic 3D worlds look sharper and cleaner on modern monitors.

Save and load states

Capture progress at almost any moment and return later. Save states help with tough sections, long games, practice, and playing on a modern schedule, even when a game has limited checkpoints.

Controller support

Map the original N64 layout, an analog stick, and accessories onto a modern Xbox-style, PlayStation-style, or USB N64-style controller, or use the keyboard for quick testing.

Fullscreen mode

Play in fullscreen for a clean, console-like experience on a monitor or TV, or stay in windowed mode for quick testing, multitasking, and setup.

Built-in cheat code support

Experiment, unlock content, or reduce friction in difficult sections with Project64’s built-in cheat support for compatible games, available as an optional tool whenever you want it.

Plugin compatibility

Project64 supports many popular N64 emulator plugins, giving advanced users flexibility over graphics, audio, input, and emulation behavior for specific games or hardware.

Broad language support

Project64 includes wide language support, making it more accessible for players well beyond the English-speaking emulation community.

Development and debugging tools

For modders, testers, and technically curious users, Project64 includes development and debugging tools to inspect behavior, test compatibility, and understand how games run.

Built for different types of players

Returning N64 fans

Revisit familiar games on a modern PC without the limits of aging cartridges, worn controllers, and old display connections.

New players discovering N64

Explore early 3D platforming, split-screen multiplayer, and genre-defining releases without needing original hardware.

Collectors & preservation

Keep access to a library you own without depending on failing consoles, cartridges, and discontinued accessories.

Power users

Tune plugins, input, graphics, and per-game settings, compare renderers, and troubleshoot compatibility beyond the defaults.

Casual players

Download, install, load a compatible game file, set up controls, and play - no need to become an emulation expert.

How to get started

1

Download Project64

Get the latest Windows release. The installer is the simplest choice; the zip package suits manual file management.

2

Install or extract

Run the installer, or extract the zip package into a folder of your choice for a portable-style setup.

3

Open the emulator

Launch Project64. The default configuration is a practical starting point for many compatible games.

4

Load a game file

Open a legally obtained Nintendo 64 game file. Project64 does not include games or ROMs.

5

Configure controls

Map a keyboard or controller, including the analog stick, C-buttons, and Z trigger, before serious play.

6

Play

Start the game. Adjust graphics or game-specific settings only if you need to, one change at a time.

System requirements & controls

Project64 is made for Windows PCs. Performance and compatibility vary by game, hardware, plugin choice, and settings, so start with the defaults and adjust only when needed.

Recommended PC baseline

  • 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11
  • Intel or AMD processor with SSE2 support
  • 2 GB RAM or more
  • DirectX, OpenGL, or Vulkan-capable graphics (depending on the video plugin)
  • Updated graphics drivers for best results

Controls that fit how you play

The original N64 controller is unusual: one analog stick, C-buttons, and a Z trigger. Project64 maps that design onto modern controllers or the keyboard.

  • Xbox-style controllers: a comfortable default for most modern players
  • PlayStation-style controllers: fully supported with custom button mapping
  • USB N64-style controllers: the closest feel to original hardware
  • Keyboard: basic play, quick testing, and setup

What you need before playing

Project64 does not include games. It does not provide ROMs, cartridges, copyrighted game files, or game downloads. You are responsible for providing your own legally obtained Nintendo 64 game files from hardware you own, where local law permits.

A complete setup includes:

  • A Windows PC with updated graphics drivers
  • Project64 installed or extracted
  • A legally obtained Nintendo 64 game file
  • A keyboard or a configured controller
  • Default settings first, with per-game changes only when needed

Emulators for other consoles

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Frequently asked questions

What is Project64?

Project64 is a free Nintendo 64 and 64DD emulator for Windows PCs. It lets you play compatible N64 games on modern hardware with features such as high-definition graphics, save states, controller support, fullscreen mode, built-in cheat support, and advanced plugin options. It is designed for one clear purpose: making Nintendo 64 emulation practical, accessible, and flexible on Windows.

Is Project64 free?

Yes. Project64 is free to download and use, and it is open source, which means its source code is publicly available and the emulator is developed with community involvement. There is no subscription required to play.

Is Project64 an official Nintendo product?

No. Project64 is an independent emulator project. It is not made by, endorsed by, sponsored by, or affiliated with Nintendo. Nintendo 64, N64, 64DD, and related game names belong to their respective owners.

Does Project64 come with games?

No. Project64 does not include games, ROMs, cartridges, game downloads, or copyrighted game files. To use it you need legally obtained Nintendo 64 game files. The emulator is only the software used to run compatible game files on a Windows PC.

Is this a download site for many different emulators?

No. This page is focused on Project64 and Nintendo 64 emulation. It is not a general software directory, ROM site, or multi-emulator portal. The goal is a clear, useful place to learn about Project64, download it, and understand how to use it responsibly.

What systems does Project64 emulate?

Project64 is built for Nintendo 64 and Nintendo 64 Disk Drive (64DD) emulation. It focuses specifically on the N64 generation rather than many consoles in one program, which helps it provide N64-specific controller mapping, plugin support, and compatibility settings.

What devices does Project64 run on?

Project64 is designed for Windows PCs. It works best on a modern 64-bit Windows system, such as Windows 10 or Windows 11, with updated graphics drivers and hardware capable of running N64 emulation smoothly.

What makes Project64 different from other N64 emulators?

Project64 is known for its balance of simplicity and depth. It is approachable enough to download and start playing quickly, yet it includes advanced settings for graphics, audio, input, plugins, and game-specific behavior. Its long history, open-source development, plugin support, save states, and cheat support make it one of the most recognizable Nintendo 64 emulators for PC.

Is Project64 good for beginners?

Yes. The core workflow is simple: download the emulator, install or extract it, open Project64, load a compatible game file, configure controls if needed, and play. Advanced settings are available but most users do not need to change everything before starting.

Can Project64 improve the graphics of N64 games?

Yes. Depending on the graphics plugin and settings, Project64 can render compatible N64 games at higher internal resolutions, so games appear sharper and cleaner on modern monitors or TVs. The goal is not to replace the identity of classic N64 games, but to make them look and feel better on current hardware.

Does Project64 support controllers?

Yes. Project64 supports configurable input, including keyboard controls and many modern USB or Bluetooth controllers. You can map the original N64 layout - with its analog stick, C-buttons, and Z trigger - to modern gamepads, N64-style USB controllers, or custom setups.

What are save states in Project64?

Save states let you save progress at almost any moment and return to that exact point later, separate from a game’s built-in save system. They are useful for difficult levels, practice, testing, short sessions, and games with limited checkpoints.

Does Project64 support cheats?

Yes. Project64 includes built-in cheat code support for compatible games. Cheats can be used to experiment, unlock content, reduce difficulty, or replay classic titles differently. They are optional - a tool for users who want them, not a requirement.

Who develops Project64?

Project64 is developed as an open-source emulator project with public source code and community contributions, rather than by a traditional game company. It has been shaped by maintainers, contributors, testers, and users over many years as part of the broader Nintendo 64 preservation and emulation community.

Is Project64 legal?

Emulators are generally legal as software, but game files are a separate matter. Project64 does not include games and should not be used as a source for copyrighted ROMs. You are responsible for following applicable laws and using only legally obtained game files.

Download Project64 and start playing

Get the latest Project64 build for Windows and play your Nintendo 64 and 64DD games with high-definition graphics, save states, controller support, and built-in cheats.

Download Project64Read the FAQ