New accessory takes advantage of Nintendo’s forgotten expansion slot

While Nintendo focuses on the Switch 2 and its new alarm clock, the often completely overlooked expansion slot on the underside of Nintendo’s classic game console NES has been getting love from elsewhere. This through the accessory NES Hub, which has been rewritten by, among other things Techspot the last few days.

The adapter gives the old gray game console support for up to four wireless controllers via Bluetooth, without any dongle, as well as “Expansion Audio”, which enables more audio channels for certain Japanese games. The adapter can also be combined with an accessory that gives the NES console support for SNES and Famicom controllers.

When was the last time you gave the expansion slot a thought? Image source: 8bitmods

The adapter’s firmware can be updated through a web-based configuration. It makes use of Darthclouds Blueretro solutionwhose updates can be installed wirelessly via Bluetooth in Chrome. In the browser it is also possible to make settings such as remapping the buttons of the hand controls.

Relatively easy to assemble

To the masses, the NES console’s expansion slot has remained a mystery over the years. It’s not too surprising considering Nintendo never released any official accessories that made use of the expansion slot in the West.

After all, few have the knowledge to improve their consoles themselves à la @Perkka, but the new adapter looks to be fairly easy to install even for those who don’t get along with screwdrivers and soldering irons.

Installation instructions are available at 8bitmodswhere you can also place a pre-order. The NES Hub costs just over 55 euros (about 620 kroner), and for an additional 25 euros (about 280 kroner) the accessory for SNES and Famicom controllers can be added. According to the site, the gadgets will start shipping out in December 2024.

Source: www.sweclockers.com