Setup Guides - Nintendo 64
Nintendo 64 (N64) Setup Guide
Setting Up Your Nintendo 64
To set up your Nintendo 64, you’ll need the original power adapter and a set of AV cables. If your modern TV does not have AV inputs, you may also need an AV-to-HDMI converter (sold separately).
For the most authentic retro gaming experience, consider using a CRT television. CRTs eliminate input lag and render graphics as originally designed during the N64 era.
Required Jumper or Expansion Pak
The Nintendo 64 requires one of the following memory modules inserted beneath the front compartment cover:
- Jumper Pak – included with most consoles and required for basic operation if an Expansion Pak is not installed.
- Expansion Pak – doubles the system's RAM, improves resolution and performance in supported games, and is required for a few titles.
Games That Require the Expansion Pak
The following titles require the Expansion Pak and will not function properly without it:
- Donkey Kong 64
- The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
- Perfect Dark (required for campaign & most multiplayer features)
- StarCraft 64 (required for multiplayer mode)
Games Enhanced by the Expansion Pak
The following games work without the Expansion Pak but offer improved visuals or features when it is installed:
- Star Wars: Rogue Squadron
- Turok 2: Seeds of Evil
- Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
- Top Gear Overdrive
- Resident Evil 2
- Excitebike 64
- South Park Rally
- Indiana Jones and the Infernal Machine
- NBA Jam 2000
- And more...
Playing N64 Games
N64 game cartridges (sold separately) must be inserted into the top-loading cartridge slot. To start the system:
- Insert the game cartridge firmly into the slot before turning on the console.
- Slide the "Power" switch up to power on the system.
Cartridge Cleaning Tips
If your game doesn’t load, the cartridge contacts may be dirty. Avoid blowing into the cartridge, as moisture can corrode the metal. Instead:
- Use a cotton swab lightly dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the contacts.
- Apply firm pressure—N64 contacts are sturdy and can handle scrubbing.