Luna's Project64 review
A feature-rich Windows and Linux emulator for users who prioritize savestates and controls.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Luna's Project64 is a free, open-source Nintendo 64 emulator forked from Project64 3.0.1. It is aimed at Windows and Linux users who want gameplay-focused features, extensive savestate support, controller customization, cheat support, and improved rendering options. The project targets compatibility with Linux while continuing to run on Windows, making it a practical fit for players choosing between those two desktop platforms.
Its standout area is save-state and gameplay control. The emulator provides 100 savestate slots, faster savestate loading, cheat support, controller key mapping, and automatic update prompts. Graphics options include high-resolution and native-resolution rendering improvements, alongside plugins such as GLideN64, Direct3D8, and Parallel-RDP. Renderer API support includes Direct3D 8, Vulkan, and OpenGL 3.3, giving users several graphics paths within the project’s plugin-based design.
Luna’s Project64 takes a focused approach rather than aiming for maximum accuracy or compatibility across every Nintendo 64 game. That makes it a stronger choice for users who value practical gameplay functions and extensive save management over the broadest compatibility target. It is less suited to buyers seeking a multi-platform emulator or a project centered on maximum emulation accuracy. Downloads are distributed through the Luna-Project64 GitHub Releases page, and the project continues to release builds.
Luna's Project64 pros and cons
- Where it wins
- 100 savestate slots with faster savestate loading
- Cheat support and flexible controller key mapping
- High-resolution rendering with multiple graphics plugins
- Where it doesn't
- Focuses on selected games rather than maximum compatibility
- Supports Windows and Linux, not a broader platform range
- Designed for Nintendo 64 emulation only
Luna's Project64 fact sheet, pricing and score →
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