The Analogue 3D just got its biggest update yet, as the 4K N64 now has save states. Dubbed "Memories", the new feature was promised alongside screenshots before launch, and while we'll need to wait a little longer to take pretty low-poly pictures, not having to do a complete Star Fox 64 run in one sitting is pretty neat.
Chances are that if you have just installed version 1.2.6, you probably missed the big Analogue 3D 1.3.0 update. That's understandable since this patch decided to arrive just days later, which makes me question the retro console maker's release schedule. I'm not grumbling, though, as this revamp finally adds Memories functionality that will let you save state anywhere in your favorite N64 games.
I should note that the Memories feature doesn't live within the main homepage as it did in the early 3DOS teaser images. Instead, it lives underneath each cartridge in your library and can be accessed by pressing down once you've, well, saved a state. You can do that in-game by pressing Home + D-Pad Up on the 8Bitdo N64 controller or Z + Start + C up on OG gamepads.
You can quickly load up existing saves by pressing Home + D-pad down, which will be preferable if you are practicing speed running or you just keep dying every two seconds (looking at you, Tick Tock Clock). Analogue says that the limit is 20 saves for now, and while that feels like more than enough for the average Nintendo 64 enjoyer, I suspect we'll see that figure increase for the true save state-loving sickos out there.
Honestly, this update couldn't have dropped at a better time, as while I've been preaching about playing Star Fox 64 on an actual N64, I was planning on jumping into the Arwing in 4K. Prior to this latest Analogue 3D patch, I had accepted that I'd still need to restart my mission between sessions since there's no memory card support, but that's no longer the case thanks to the Memories feature.
In a sense, the Memories feature means that the OG Star Fox 64 on Analogue 3D has an edge over the new Switch remake. You will be able to "suspend" the latter and come back to levels later, but on the FPGA N64, you'll be able to save practically anywhere you like and even keep a slot for all 16 levels. That even leaves four for saving at specific tricky points, something that matters when it comes to taking the right route for the "true ending."
I've spent a bit of time messing with the 3D's Memories while playing Star Fox 64, and I can confirm the system works well. The screen will blink black upon pressing the hot keys to save or load, and both take only a second or two. I am curious whether Analogue will eventually add the option to set your own shortcuts, though, as having to press home and down could get your digits in a twist depending on the situation.
Circling back to the idea of using a save state for the start of levels, or even just specific scenarios or situations, being able to label each save would be handy. You get a small thumbnail, which helps provide an idea of what awaits you within each file, but as someone who likes to jump to specific areas of a game for reference points, labels would be good for keeping an index.
So far, I haven't run into any troublesome bugs when grabbing and jumping back into Memories. That's perhaps to be expected, given that Analogue waited until six months after launch to release the feature, and the fact that it even works on flashcarts on an individual game basis is a testament to that.
I'll be continually testing my N64 collection with the Memories save state feature, so I'll naturally let you know if any funny business arises. I'm hoping to have used it a whole bunch over the weekend in Star Fox 64, but I am slightly bummed out that screenshots didn't arrive with version 1.3.0. I guess my plans for a physical N64 scrapbook with printed photos of my outings will have to wait.
Looking to play N64 games on the go? Check out the best retro handhelds for portables that can handle Nintendo's first 3D system.
