In the Games universe, where innovation and nostalgia meet, a recent project draws attention for its unique and nostalgic proposal. The team behind Ninjalerts, known for its previous forays into blockchain, has just taken a bold step by incorporating a Nintendo 64 (N64) emulator into the Bitcoin network. This advancement was announced enthusiastically by the group, promising gaming aficionados time travel with a modern twist.
This project, titled Pizza Ninjas, marks a significant moment by registering the N64 emulator under ordinal registration 61.648.429. The initiative allows users, armed with compatible game files, to enjoy iconic N64 titles directly in their browsers. “We are trying to make 4-player multiplayer work on Bitcoin,” shared Trevor Owens, CEO of Ninjalerts, highlighting the team's commitment to expanding gaming possibilities on the network.
I'm happy to share that Pizza Ninjas just signed up a Nintendo 64 emulator on Bitcoin! 🟠🎮
We didn't think this would be practical initially, but thanks to the new Brotli Compression on Ordinals
Inscribing a larger system like N64 and its games is more realistically feasible… pic.twitter.com/XcEAAqR04A
— trevor.btc — b/acc (@TO) February 22, 2024
The technology behind this feat is equally impressive. The team used the Brotli compression algorithm, developed by Google, to optimize game files. This method allows a size reduction of around 80%, consequently reducing the number of Bitcoin blocks needed to host the emulator. “Goldeneye 64, for example, is 12,6 MB,” explained Owens, “but after compression with Brotli, the size drops to 1,4 MB.”
In addition to reviving the magic of classic games, the project addresses complex technical and legal issues. Bitcoin network congestion and Digital Rights Management (DRM) implications are just some of the barriers the team faces. However, Owens assures that the choice of the N64, the last major console to use cartridges before the CD era, was strategic and aligns with efforts to avoid gray legalities associated with more modern consoles.
The cost of subscribing to the emulator blockchain was another point of discussion. Compared to previous projects, the N64 emulator represented a significantly smaller investment thanks to current network fees. “If we signed up [the N64 emulator] when we signed up the SNES, it would have been closer to $20 to $25,” Owens reflected on the price range and compression efficiency.
This project not only brings back the nostalgia of N64 games, but also opens a dialogue about digital preservation and the use of blockchains beyond financial transactions. As the team navigates the complex territory of copyright and blockchain technology, their work serves as a reminder of the limitless potential of these platforms.
