Luna's Project64

What Luna's Project64 is

Luna's Project64 is a free Nintendo 64 emulator for Windows and Linux. It is a fork of Project64 3.0.1 and describes itself as a Linux-compatible alternative to Project64 2.4. Its stated priority is gameplay functionality for a selected set of games, rather than accuracy or broad compatibility. Plugins for supported games are included, and the emulator can prompt users when a new version is ready. It provides 100 save-state slots; loading was made faster, and repeated loading during Discord screensharing should no longer crash the game. A patched issue could make EEPROM data appear corrupted in some hacks. Version 3.7.3 addresses a RetroAchievements Hardcore exploit, improves memory decommit handling and fixes edge cases that could deadlock saving or loading. That version is required for RetroAchievements Hardcore, and Star Display plus Luna is allowed. The GPLv2 project supports cheats, high-resolution rendering, controller remapping, and Direct3D 8, Vulkan and OpenGL 3.3 graphics APIs. Speed controls use Ctrl+ and Ctrl-.

Who it suits

It suits players looking for a free Nintendo 64 emulator on Linux or Windows, particularly those focused on the games the project supports. Its stated priority is gameplay for a select group of games rather than broad compatibility or accuracy.

Limits

The project prioritizes gameplay functionality for a selected set of games over accuracy or compatibility. RetroAchievements Hardcore requires version 3.7.3.

Getting started

1. Open the project’s GitHub page
2. Download Luna’s Project64 from GitHub Releases
3. Choose the Windows or Linux version
4. For RetroAchievements Hardcore, use version 3.7.3 or later

Verdict

Luna's Project64 offers a focused N64 emulator with save states and several graphics APIs. Its stated limits on accuracy and game coverage matter if you need broader compatibility.