In a significant update for the retro gaming community, the team behind the MARS FPGA console has confirmed that the highly anticipated system will be publicly demonstrated at the upcoming TooManyGames expo.
This official announcement comes after weeks of intense speculation about the status of the hardware, which aims to rival the popular MiSTer FPGA platform. MARS FPGA—which stands for Multi Arcade and Retro System—was formally unveiled in August 2023 as a premium alternative to existing FPGA-based emulation solutions.
Powered by the cutting-edge Titanium Ti180 FPGA chip, the MARS system promises improved performance and compatibility over the DE10-Nano Cyclone V platform currently used in MiSTer setups.
The MARS console is currently slated for a $699 price point, positioning it as a high-end option for enthusiasts seeking authentic retro gaming experiences. Project lead Todd Gill, an influential figure in the FPGA community, took to social media to address recent rumors suggesting delays or possible cancellation.
"We will be showcasing both the hardware and supporting games at TooManyGames," Gill stated, emphasizing that development is progressing as planned and reiterating the team’s commitment to a 2024 launch window.
The statement comes after a previously planned Q1 release window was missed, increasing pressure from both fans and critics across social channels. Atrac17, another key supporter of the project, reinforced Gill’s assurances by highlighting that classic titles such as Midway’s Mortal Kombat 2 would be fully playable on the MARS FPGA system at the event.
This demonstration is expected to serve as a proof of concept for the platform’s accuracy and low-latency performance in reproducing arcade and console experiences. The MARS FPGA development team features notable retro hardware experts, including Flxel—developer of acclaimed 3DO and Dreamcast emulators—and Mike Chi, the creator behind the RetroTINK series of video upscalers.
Their involvement signals a strong technical foundation and a focus on both compatibility and user experience.
Despite a storm of speculation and spirited debates within online communities—including coverage from content creators such as Pixel Cherry Ninja and Video Game Esoterica—Gill has reassured stakeholders that there are no significant obstacles threatening the project.
Social media has been abuzz with both support and skepticism, but the confirmation of a hands-on showcase at TooManyGames marks a pivotal moment for MARS' credibility. Looking ahead, the MARS FPGA system’s demonstration at TooManyGames is poised to be a highlight of the retro gaming calendar, offering fans, developers, and hardware enthusiasts an exclusive first look at what could become a new standard in FPGA-based gaming.
The final release date and availability details remain forthcoming; however, the project’s commitment to transparency and technical innovation positions MARS as one of the most closely watched hardware launches of 2024.
This official announcement comes after weeks of intense speculation about the status of the hardware, which aims to rival the popular MiSTer FPGA platform. MARS FPGA—which stands for Multi Arcade and Retro System—was formally unveiled in August 2023 as a premium alternative to existing FPGA-based emulation solutions.
Powered by the cutting-edge Titanium Ti180 FPGA chip, the MARS system promises improved performance and compatibility over the DE10-Nano Cyclone V platform currently used in MiSTer setups.
The MARS console is currently slated for a $699 price point, positioning it as a high-end option for enthusiasts seeking authentic retro gaming experiences. Project lead Todd Gill, an influential figure in the FPGA community, took to social media to address recent rumors suggesting delays or possible cancellation.
"We will be showcasing both the hardware and supporting games at TooManyGames," Gill stated, emphasizing that development is progressing as planned and reiterating the team’s commitment to a 2024 launch window.
The statement comes after a previously planned Q1 release window was missed, increasing pressure from both fans and critics across social channels. Atrac17, another key supporter of the project, reinforced Gill’s assurances by highlighting that classic titles such as Midway’s Mortal Kombat 2 would be fully playable on the MARS FPGA system at the event.
This demonstration is expected to serve as a proof of concept for the platform’s accuracy and low-latency performance in reproducing arcade and console experiences. The MARS FPGA development team features notable retro hardware experts, including Flxel—developer of acclaimed 3DO and Dreamcast emulators—and Mike Chi, the creator behind the RetroTINK series of video upscalers.
Their involvement signals a strong technical foundation and a focus on both compatibility and user experience.
Despite a storm of speculation and spirited debates within online communities—including coverage from content creators such as Pixel Cherry Ninja and Video Game Esoterica—Gill has reassured stakeholders that there are no significant obstacles threatening the project.
Social media has been abuzz with both support and skepticism, but the confirmation of a hands-on showcase at TooManyGames marks a pivotal moment for MARS' credibility. Looking ahead, the MARS FPGA system’s demonstration at TooManyGames is poised to be a highlight of the retro gaming calendar, offering fans, developers, and hardware enthusiasts an exclusive first look at what could become a new standard in FPGA-based gaming.
The final release date and availability details remain forthcoming; however, the project’s commitment to transparency and technical innovation positions MARS as one of the most closely watched hardware launches of 2024.
