Retro hardware creator Taki Udon has officially revealed the SuperStation One, an FPGA console designed to accurately replicate the experience of the original PlayStation. This console seeks to cater to both retro gaming fans as well as new players interested in reviving the classic catalogue of the 90s and early 2000s. The great advantage of this system is that it is based on FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) technology, which emulates the operation of the original hardware at a physical level and not through software, as occurs with traditional emulators.
The SuperStation One, which is designed based on the iconic PSOne, will be available to pre-order from January 25. Those who opt for the Founder's Edition They will be able to acquire it for an initial price of U.S. dollar 149, while the final price will not exceed $225. Reservations will be available at different times depending on the location, such as 9PM EST in the United States or 10AM HKT in HK.
A tribute to the original PlayStation
The SuperStation One's design pays homage to the classic PlayStation, with color options in white, black, a nostalgic transparent blue, and more. In addition, it is compatible with original PS1 accessories, such as controllers, memory cards and light guns, allowing for an authentically retro experience. It also includes support for analog and digital output (HDMI, VGA, DIN10, among others), making it suitable for both modern monitors as if to old CRT televisions.
The console is also compatible with the latest technologies, such as NFC, WiFi, Bluetooth and USB ports, making it versatile and practical for modern users. In addition, it features a MicroSD card slot, Ethernet and both analog and digital audio connectors (TOSLINK).
Mark your calendars.
It would be uncharacteristic of me to not have this in transparent blue. Should we make it? pic.twitter.com/wsdCHrgrnE
— Taki Udon (@TakiUdon_) January 23, 2025
Expansion with the SuperDock
While the base console does not include a disc reader, users who wish to play with their original discs will be able to do so via a optional accessory called SuperDock. This dock features a CD/DVD drive, four USB-A ports, and space for an M.2 2280 SSD drive. This add-on will make loading PS1 discs easier and allow you to take even more advantage of the console's features.
Taki Udon has mentioned that while PS1 disc support will be included by default thanks to a custom FPGA core, discs for other platforms such as the Saturn will require additional modifications, as there will be no custom cores for those systems. This limitation, however, has not dampened enthusiasm for the project.
FPGA and MiSTer technology
The core of the SuperStation One is based on the well-known MiSTer FPGA project, famous in the retro community for its ability to emulate systems such as NES, SNES, Mega Drive and others. In particular, the PSX_MiSTer core has long been a standout choice for playing PS1 titles with a impressive fidelity. The SuperStation One has been designed to eliminate the traditional complications of the MiSTer, bringing together advanced features into a single, easy-to-use device.
Improvements include the integration of essential ports, SNAC holder (for accessories like light guns) and details like a power button, a feature that many traditional MiSTer users will appreciate.
A competitive market
The SuperStation One will compete directly with other FPGA consoles, such as those developed by Analogue. Although the Analogue devices Known for their impeccable design and simplicity, Taki Udon's offering offers greater flexibility thanks to compatibility with a wide range of accessories and its support for analog output, making it ideal for gaming on retro televisions.
Additionally, unlike some competing devices, the SuperStation One also plans to incorporate NFC for loading games directly from tags that users can place on their game cards. This adds a unique dimension to the coleccionistas.
As for general functionality, games will be able to load from MicroSD cards and other digital media, allowing users to choose how to manage their collection of titles.
With its combination of technological precision, nostalgic design and upgrade options, the SuperStation One is shaping up to be an attractive proposition for fans of the original PlayStation and retro gaming enthusiasts in general.