Gopher64 vs n64js

Gopher64 is a free, open-source Nintendo 64 emulator for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. It supports homebrew software, netplay, and local or server-based networked multiplayer for one to four players. Graphics options include upscaling and a CRT shader; emulation features include CPU overclocking, cheats, and save states. RetroAchievements is also supported, and enabling it sends some data to RetroAchievements systems. The itch.io listing names keyboard, Xbox controller, gamepad, joystick, and PlayStation controller inputs. Downloads are listed for all four platforms, with Flathub and Homebrew also pointed out for Linux and macOS. The source code is licensed under GPLv3. During online netplay, the server logs the user's IP address and basic session information—the game title and session name—for operational purposes; no additional personal data is collected or stored. The maker links a wiki and Discord, but there is no game compatibility list; game-specific problems are directed to GitHub issues.

n64js is a free N64 emulator written mostly in pure ES6 JavaScript, with a hosted version on GitHub Pages. It uses WebGL and provides keyboard controls plus a controller-configuration interface. Many ROMs run close to full speed, but graphical problems remain and imprecise cycle counting affects compatibility. Save data can persist through localStorage, with save import and export listed as implemented features. Saving and loading require native Uint8Array base64 methods supported in Chrome or Edge 140+, Firefox 133+, or Safari 18.2+, including iOS. The live site reports Chrome, Firefox, and Safari tested on macOS 13.5; Edge is untested. Low-level audio emulation is implemented, while high-level audio remains in progress. Savestates are listed as a TODO. Debug options include Off, Simple, and Mattias CRT display effects. The MIT-licensed repository also documents Bun scripts for headless emulation and programmatic controller input.