Nintendo 64 F.A.Q. |
Will your N64 Game Paks (cartridges) work on my N64 system?
Yes, 100% guaranteed to work on North American (NTFS), and Europe/Australia (PAL) Nintendo 64 systems!
Also work on Japanese (NTFS) Nintendo 64 systems, but will need cart slot rear plastic tabs pulled out (needle nose pliers trick; see YouTube).
Also work on Japanese (NTFS) Nintendo 64 systems, but will need cart slot rear plastic tabs pulled out (needle nose pliers trick; see YouTube).
What exactly is PAL vs NTFS N64 format game?
If you live in North America you always used a NTFS format game(s) & NTFS N64. All N64 categories on this website are NTFS format.
If you live in Europe or Australia you have PAL format game(s) & PAL N64. Given popular demand, we started a PAL game format category on our website. We plan to expand this category in the future. If have some titles requests please let us know.
If you live in Europe or Australia you have PAL format game(s) & PAL N64. Given popular demand, we started a PAL game format category on our website. We plan to expand this category in the future. If have some titles requests please let us know.
How can I play NTFS N64 games in Europe/Australia?
Can purchase a NTFS N64 system and a composite RCA PAL/NTFS video adaptor. Both can be found on eBay for good price. This allows you to play all NTFS game with ease. Also, all N64 accessories work between region N64 systems. Just do not use other world region N64 power supply's! In other words, if you live in Europe, and buy an American N64 system, and a PAL/NTFS video adaptor to use only your Europe N64 power supply on your American N64 system. This advice also works vise-versa for American players interested in playing PAL format games.
Another way to go is the special NTFS N64 game to PAL N64 system adaptors; known as “Region Converters." Two well known models are "Blaze Universal Games Adaptor V4" & "N64 Passport" However, they may hard to find, can be twitchy, and be sure to research them before purchase.
Please note, when playing PAL games on NTFS you may get some sound screeching noises.
Another way to go is the special NTFS N64 game to PAL N64 system adaptors; known as “Region Converters." Two well known models are "Blaze Universal Games Adaptor V4" & "N64 Passport" However, they may hard to find, can be twitchy, and be sure to research them before purchase.
Please note, when playing PAL games on NTFS you may get some sound screeching noises.
Will my Controller Pak, Rumble Pak, & Expansion Pak work with your Game Paks (cartridges)?
Yes. All common N64 accessories work! If works on official N64 games it will work with ours. Bear in mind, not all games support or require it. Not all games use the Expansion Pak, but some games require it.
I'm stuck at ODT puzzle or cannot find the exit on a GoldenEye Mod?
Likely a play through video on YouTube that shows a solution. Agree, ODT is one hard game, even we needed some YouTube help.
Do Vintex 64 Game Paks work with N64 GameShark, Passport, & 64 Drive Ultra Save Cart Tool?
Yes. All have been tested and confirmed to be 100% fully compatible. We tested all known Game Shark version 1.05, 2.1, 3.2, & 3.3.
In fact, our F-Zero X mods work with GameShark fine, but the official F-Zero X and many China repro do not work with N64 Game Shark.
In fact, our F-Zero X mods work with GameShark fine, but the official F-Zero X and many China repro do not work with N64 Game Shark.
Do Vintex 64 Game Paks work on special N64 hardware mod devices?
With so many rare mod devices for the N64, it's hard for us to extensively test them all. Yet, the Vintex 64 Game Paks are designed for simplicity and to reflect the original N64 Game Pak circuitry style. All these devices should work just fine.
To that end, if you have a rare mod device and tested the features with our Game Paks, please let us know!
To that end, if you have a rare mod device and tested the features with our Game Paks, please let us know!
Can you provide other colour Game Pak Shells?
Yes. We have official orange, red, black, blue, and gold painted shells in stock (see example below). You have two options for ordering:
1. Simple order your regular repro + order a colour shell of your choice at our N64 spare parts page. Then indicate during check-out notes which repo game the color shell is for.
2. Write in check-out notes "Surprise me with cool color cart if possible". We'll use one of our color shells that has some extra cosmetic damage that in stock at no extra cost. If want nicest looking color shell please pick option #1 above.
Please note, as we process donors & order, we will adjust colour shell prices & inventory from time to time.
1. Simple order your regular repro + order a colour shell of your choice at our N64 spare parts page. Then indicate during check-out notes which repo game the color shell is for.
2. Write in check-out notes "Surprise me with cool color cart if possible". We'll use one of our color shells that has some extra cosmetic damage that in stock at no extra cost. If want nicest looking color shell please pick option #1 above.
Please note, as we process donors & order, we will adjust colour shell prices & inventory from time to time.
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UPDATE - Do you have non-official color shells available?
Yes, we are starting to stock other color shells. These will not use the original RF shield inside the carts. Keep in mind the black is solid, but other colors are translucent (can see PCB inside somewhat). For now we'll not have any back label on translucent colors as working on full color shell update option. If like one of the below shells in current order please note such in check-out notes & order extra $4 (use spare parts page) to cover shell cost.
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What is the aesthetics quality of your Game Paks?
We take pride for our Game Paks to look nice and professional (as per website images), but our Game Paks do have some imperfections:
We do not sell perfectly factory-sealed looking games that have that new car smell. To keep our prices low we focus on reasonable external aesthetics that exceeds most collector's standards. Yet, all shells been cleaned with solvents & dishwasher to bring back some of the new plastic smell/look.
- The grey or colour plastic cases are used N64 shells that may contain minor scrapes or scruffs.
- Labels may have some minor fogging, image imperfections, small edge imperfections, or be slightly misaligned.
- The PCB is hand solder, so don't expect perfect machine looking soldering, and expect some uncleaned solder past and such.
We do not sell perfectly factory-sealed looking games that have that new car smell. To keep our prices low we focus on reasonable external aesthetics that exceeds most collector's standards. Yet, all shells been cleaned with solvents & dishwasher to bring back some of the new plastic smell/look.
What is the difference between the GoldenEye game Mod and the official GoldenEye game I own?
The GE game mod is the same as official GE, but have one or more solo or multi levels changed. Some may have larger changes; such as all levels changed. See GE product descriptions for more details.
How do I unlock all multiplayer and single player levels in GoldenEye? Or unlock 007 mode with all cheats?
Normally by beating the game, and completing each missions under a fixed time. Could use a GameShark and GameShark code that stops the clock.
We also provide game save service; load a 100% authentic save onto your GE Cart with all content unlocked. Yet, we recommend purchasing a GE mod as easiest solution. All our GE mods have either a 100% authentic save per-loaded or the mod has all content unlocked by the code.
We also provide game save service; load a 100% authentic save onto your GE Cart with all content unlocked. Yet, we recommend purchasing a GE mod as easiest solution. All our GE mods have either a 100% authentic save per-loaded or the mod has all content unlocked by the code.
I've not been so lucky with GoldenEye mods and they often crash on my flashcart?
All GE content listed on the website has been tested to be fully playable and enjoyable with the real N64 hardware. If we missed something we'll make it up to you! Regarding you original attempt you may wish to review source for an updated mod released.
I’m interested in N64 game editing/modding. Or like to know more about N64 mod community. Or I wish to contribute to N64 mod community.
Check out http://n64vault.com/. Its a wiki regarding the above and has a talented group that welcome new and supporting members.
Remember, the above is not the place to go regarding reproductions nor rom backups. Its not the place to post rom backup links. And Its not the place to promote or ask about Vintex 64 products.
Remember, the above is not the place to go regarding reproductions nor rom backups. Its not the place to post rom backup links. And Its not the place to promote or ask about Vintex 64 products.
You don't have many well-known Super Mario 64 mod?
Many Super Mario 64 mods been designed for play on emulators (on personal computers) and will not work on original N64 hardware. We research and test all titles in our store to insure reasonable play-ability on real N64 hardware, but we will add more SM64 in the future.
Can you make GoldenEye X, Sin & Punishment English, 40 Winks, Paper Mario or StarCraft 64?
We have a new N64 PCB design in the works. Aiming for late 2022 to have the above and more titles will be in the store!
You may email us if wish to be on waiting list to get dibs when ready.
You may email us if wish to be on waiting list to get dibs when ready.
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A guy online said you are destroying N64 games, and it will cause problems in the future?
The opposite is likely true. When you buy a Vintex 64 repro Game Pak the donner likely was:
- An over marked-up or dirty cartridge.
- A broken cartidge beyond repair.
- A non-popular title with very high-population of millions, that retro gaming stores have excessive stock off.
- An unwanted offshore N64 title.
We are very careful with our donor selection process. What is more of a problem is if too many people turn their back on the N64 and stop playing it.
- An over marked-up or dirty cartridge.
- A broken cartidge beyond repair.
- A non-popular title with very high-population of millions, that retro gaming stores have excessive stock off.
- An unwanted offshore N64 title.
We are very careful with our donor selection process. What is more of a problem is if too many people turn their back on the N64 and stop playing it.
I'm a talented N64 programmer/coder that looking for some interesting project ideas.
We have a list of ideas/requests from customers that can forward to you.
In addition, we do have have requests; that can help lower prices and add game value to our products. We also have an interesting N64 hardware project in development that be a first in the N64 scene, can use some coding help, but hardware is a few years away.
In addition, we do have have requests; that can help lower prices and add game value to our products. We also have an interesting N64 hardware project in development that be a first in the N64 scene, can use some coding help, but hardware is a few years away.
What advantages does your N64 PCB design have over Flash-Carts or Emulation when I'm programming it?
Some demanding mods, such as over clocked games or some GE mods run on our PCB fine but don't run (or crash often) on modern Flash-Carts.
In addition, we are looking at making at 12 Megabytes Expansion Pak; purposed to current 4 Megabytes official Expansion Pak.
In addition, we are looking at making at 12 Megabytes Expansion Pak; purposed to current 4 Megabytes official Expansion Pak.
I'm having issues finding a Everdrive64 or in finding a reprogrammable carts for N64?
Or how can I affectively tests a ongoing/changing coding project I'm on?
We have new service available for program developers/coders!
Every month we can program/build your beta rom/file into one of out PCB/Boards and ship it to you after each monthly build cycles. You then get the chance to run it in your hardware at home for extensive tests. If want few iterations in later months that fine. We only ask that when complete you ship back all prior boards for re-purposing at our end. We'll recycle them. Cost for this service can be as low as $20-$25 per month depending on PCB/board/hardware needs.
Every month we can program/build your beta rom/file into one of out PCB/Boards and ship it to you after each monthly build cycles. You then get the chance to run it in your hardware at home for extensive tests. If want few iterations in later months that fine. We only ask that when complete you ship back all prior boards for re-purposing at our end. We'll recycle them. Cost for this service can be as low as $20-$25 per month depending on PCB/board/hardware needs.
What is a N64 Long Cart, Development Cart, Prototype Cartridge?
They look like a regular Game Pak, but longer and often with crude stickers on the shell. Back in the day N64 game developers would test their emerging game or send it to press outlets on this format. They are basically an old/complicated Flash Cart for re-writing different N64 games. As years went by they dissolved into the public and became popular with collectors. They are often seen on eBay going for over $1,000 and normally have an early version of an official game programmed within.
What advice do you have for owners or collectors of Development Carts?
N64 Long Carts where designed for re-writing/testing N64 games and not so much long term storage; they can self erase. We emphasise owners to take steps in creating back-ups of its gaming content (dump the cart). This will help preserver rare N64 gaming content and N64 gaming history. We do offer this service and will respect your ownership of content. See our "N64 cart repair & save service". If seek out another group please insure you are confident of their abilities.
Regarding run/play the Long Cart please do so on a stable N64 system and power supply. Also, insure both System and Long Cart have very clean pin connectors. Why? Long Carts use more power; more chips and complicated circuits inside. When they get weak on power they are more likely to self erase or wear out. Also, well used N64 systems, and N64 power supplies due have weaker power feeds for Game Paks. This is normally not an issue with official or Vintex 64 Game Paks, but can be an an issue for Flash Carts and Development Carts that rely on heavier/reliable power feeds. If you sometimes have trouble booting a flash cart you likely have a weak power supply on your N64.
If you plan to purchasing Development Carts suggest inquire with the seller on story behind it. Try to confirm that it did come from a gaming company and that the Long Cart hardware is stable. Reprogramming a Long Cart is outside the means of majority of people.
Regarding run/play the Long Cart please do so on a stable N64 system and power supply. Also, insure both System and Long Cart have very clean pin connectors. Why? Long Carts use more power; more chips and complicated circuits inside. When they get weak on power they are more likely to self erase or wear out. Also, well used N64 systems, and N64 power supplies due have weaker power feeds for Game Paks. This is normally not an issue with official or Vintex 64 Game Paks, but can be an an issue for Flash Carts and Development Carts that rely on heavier/reliable power feeds. If you sometimes have trouble booting a flash cart you likely have a weak power supply on your N64.
If you plan to purchasing Development Carts suggest inquire with the seller on story behind it. Try to confirm that it did come from a gaming company and that the Long Cart hardware is stable. Reprogramming a Long Cart is outside the means of majority of people.
What do you think about aftermarket N64 Power Supplies?
They do work. However, most are simpler/cheaper built and may not have the Certification safety logos/marks. If the government certification logo/marks not present they are illegal to use, period. We suggest if possible use official Nintendo Power Supplies. Official Nintendo Japan power supplies (we have some in store or common on eBay) work just fine in North America N64 & contain the quality power & safety circuity inside.
See below taken from a government website:
"Certification marks Electrical products that plug into an electrical outlet must meet national safety standards and be certified by an accredited certification body. Always check for certification marks, such as CSA, cUL, or cETL, before purchasing electrical products that plug into an electrical outlet. These marks indicate that the products are assessed and conform to the required national safety standard.
Do not buy or use electrical products that plug into an electrical outlet without a certification mark.
For more information on certification marks, visit your provincial or territorial electrical safety authority.
Counterfeit electrical products can be dangerous because they may not conform to the required national safety standard."
They do work. However, most are simpler/cheaper built and may not have the Certification safety logos/marks. If the government certification logo/marks not present they are illegal to use, period. We suggest if possible use official Nintendo Power Supplies. Official Nintendo Japan power supplies (we have some in store or common on eBay) work just fine in North America N64 & contain the quality power & safety circuity inside.
See below taken from a government website:
"Certification marks Electrical products that plug into an electrical outlet must meet national safety standards and be certified by an accredited certification body. Always check for certification marks, such as CSA, cUL, or cETL, before purchasing electrical products that plug into an electrical outlet. These marks indicate that the products are assessed and conform to the required national safety standard.
Do not buy or use electrical products that plug into an electrical outlet without a certification mark.
For more information on certification marks, visit your provincial or territorial electrical safety authority.
Counterfeit electrical products can be dangerous because they may not conform to the required national safety standard."
My N64 system has issues sometimes loading official and non-official games. What can I do to fix this?
Few things you can do:
- Insure you N64 System and Game Pak have clean contents! Dirty contact is the #1 issue many people face. Dirty contact restrict the power, ground, & data lines. If you have to blow your contacts they are not clean, period. We recommend looking at https://www.1upcard.com. They have nice selection of professional system & cart cleaning kits.
- Try a different N64 Power Supply. Weak power supplies may work, but could be slightly starving the electronics for voltage. Note, you can buy a Japan official power supply on eBay that work fine in North America.
- Your Game Pak could need a new Capacitor. Weak/dying booting capacitor often make a game require multiply tries. We normally replace the Black Official Nintendo capacitor with a oversized medical grade Red capacitor.
- Some repos are sadly not over-built and may have weak or thin copper/power tracers. The pipes that bring power to the chips. This why after they sit for months take few boots to work. Power it on, then leave it minute or two, then turn off then power again. Likely take few shots to charge power in limited copper tracer to feed the circuitry; that why leaving it on for a few moment can help. If you look at our and official N64 PCB you'll quickly notice the heavy copper poor on our ground and power tracers. Bigger pipe feeding energy to the chips.
- Bad CIC chip. Everything that boot in a N64 System require a security chip known as CIC. It's rare, but sometimes they go bad.
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