The Future of FPGA Gaming — What to Expect in 2026 and Beyond
FPGA has become the gold standard for players who want original-hardware accuracy without the hassle of maintaining aging consoles. As we approach 2026, the FPGA scene is evolving faster than ever — both in terms of hardware capabilities and community-driven development.
1. Accuracy Is Approaching 100% for Many Consoles
FPGA recreates hardware at the circuit level rather than simulating it through software.
This means we are quickly reaching a point where:
- Audio timing is cycle-perfect
- Video output matches original consoles exactly
- Controller latency is effectively zero
- Even obscure hardware quirks are faithfully reproduced
For purists, FPGA is becoming indistinguishable from original hardware.
2. New FPGA Systems Are Expected to Arrive
Rumors and developer hints suggest several possible FPGA milestones coming in 2026:
Potential upcoming FPGA-compatible systems:
- GameCube FPGA prototypes (highly experimental today)
- Saturn FPGA core improvements
- More advanced PS1 and PS2-level research
- New Arcade board reproductions
While PS2-level FPGA is still far away, researchers are making consistent progress.
3. MiSTer Continues to Lead the Community Effort
The MiSTer project is thriving due to its open-source model:
- Dozens of new cores
- Highly optimized PSX, Saturn, and Neo Geo updates
- Constant performance improvements
- New CRT output refinements
For tinkerers, MiSTer remains unmatched.
4. Analogue’s Ecosystem Is Expected to Expand
Analogue continues to shape the premium FPGA landscape:
- Analogue Pocket firmware updates
- Analogue Duo shipping waves and support
- Analogue 3D ecosystem growing with CRT profiles, filters, and accuracy patches
The company’s strong industrial design + FPGA focus keeps demand extremely high.
5. Hybrid FPGA + Emulation Devices May Become Common
A possible future trend:
- FPGA is used for accuracy-critical cores
- Software emulation fills in gaps for more complex systems
This would create devices capable of:
SNES/Genesis/GBA via FPGA
- GameCube/PS2 via software
- The best of both worlds.
What about you?
Do you use FPGA systems today? Share your experience — and any cores you’d love to see in 2026.
