At a Glance
- Epilogue will ship its $60 SN Operator for SNES cartridges in April.
- Preorders begin Dec. 30 at 12 p.m. ET, with post-preorder availability.
- The device works on PC, Mac, and Steam Deck, backing up games and saves via the Playback app.
- Why it matters: It lets retro gamers play and preserve SNES cartridges on modern hardware, avoiding cartridge wear.
Epilogue, known for its GB Operator, is expanding its lineup with a new SN Operator that will let users play Super Nintendo cartridges on PC, Mac, or Steam Deck. The $60 device is slated for April release, with preorders beginning Dec. 30. The Playback app will enable backup and co-op play.
SN Operator Overview
The SN Operator reads data from SNES cartridges and runs a software emulator, not an FPGA. It backs up games and saves to a computer, so the cartridge can be removed after the first play. The device also supports mouse controls for the old Super Nintendo mouse and SuperScope, and it offers co-op via the Playback app.
- Backup games and saves to PC, Mac, or Steam Deck
- Co-op play with the Playback app
- RetroAchievements support
- Mouse support for SuperScope and Super Nintendo mouse
Compatibility & Support
The device is compatible with three platforms and includes an app that syncs saves across them.
| Platform | Backup | Co-op | RetroAchievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Mac | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Steam Deck | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Epilogue notes that the device preserves game integrity through a testing framework, but it cannot replicate the CRT TV experience of the original hardware. Analogue has discontinued its Super NT SNES device, while MiSTer offers an FPGA-based alternative. The company hints at future NES, N64, and DS Operators.
Key Takeaways
- The $60 SN Operator launches in April with preorders starting Dec. 30.
- It works on PC, Mac, and Steam Deck, backing up games and saves.
- The Playback app adds co-op, RetroAchievements, and mouse support for classic peripherals.
Epilogue’s new SN Operator offers a practical way to digitize and play SNES cartridges on modern systems, giving retro gamers a new tool to preserve their legacy titles.
