After the success of the SuperStation, we wondered where Taki Udon would go next for a new creation. Posting the caption 'It’s time to run it back. Codename SSNT/SuperFPGA' and a picture of the Reset button from a Super NES, it looks very much like he's about to tackle an FPGA version of the Super Nintendo to sit proudly next to the M64s and Analogue 3Ds of the world.
Taki Udon also posted a picture of the Reset button from the PAL version of the SNES too to further cement the notion in our minds. I know that reset button anywhere - I've hit it often enough when playing The Lion King and Donkey Kong Country over the years!
This is a pretty smart move from Taki, who created an incredible FPGA PlayStation with the SuperStation, a device that can play PS1 games but also load up cores for other retro systems. It also has a dock that you can use to play your actual discs (sold separately) instead of just loading up ROMS. The main selling appeal here is that it looks like a successor to the actual PS1, just like the M64 looks like it's the next evolution of the N64.
With the N64 being covered by ModRetro and Analogue, going straight to the NES and covering the market with an FPGA console, possibly with a cartridge dock, is the best option. It's pointless going toe-to-toe with the companies who are already battling for the N64 crown, and the SNES is such a beloved console that I think people will jump at the chance to own an FPGA version, especially if it comes with overclocking and all features we've come to love from FPGA machines, like CRT filters, different screen modes, and of course, the all-important HDMI out for modern TVs.
At the minute, that's all we have to go on, but I'll be reaching out to Taki over the next couple of days to tey and get the lowdown of what's happening with the SSNT/SuperFPGA and when we might get to see more pictures!
