Retroflag has just published details of the 64Pi CASE on its official website, confirming the imminent release of this case, which we reported on a few days ago.

A direct tribute to the Nintendo 64

As its name suggests, the 64Pi CASE is directly inspired by the Nintendo 64, faithfully reproducing the design of the cult console released in 1996. To add a splash of colour to its range, Retroflag has opted for a turquoise blue version, recalling one of the 64-bit console's iconic translucent variations.

Designed exclusively for the Raspberry Pi 5

The 64Pi CASE is specifically designed to accommodate the Raspberry Pi 5, and only this model. In fact, it's the first case from Retroflag to be compatible with the Pi 5.

In our last issue of Retrogaming News, we stressed the importance of good accessibility to the Pi 5's connectors, and this case reassures us on this point, with a design that minimises internal electronic complexity.

Connectors and features

The USB 2.0 ports have been moved to the front of the case to serve as joystick sockets (two instead of the four found on the original Nintendo 64). The Raspberry Pi 5's other connectors, such as the power supply, the two Mini HDMI ports, the USB 3.0 and the RJ45 port, remain directly accessible from the rear.
It should be noted that the USB 3.0 and RJ45 ports can be concealed thanks to a small hatch on the side.

The slot for the Micro SD card is located on the underside of the case, providing direct, convenient access.

Optimised cooling

If you turn the case over, you'll notice a large ventilation grille designed to ensure that the Raspberry Pi 5 is properly cooled.
On the active cooling side, the 64Pi CASE is equipped with a fan, which appears to be large enough to maintain optimum temperatures.

Retroflag also supplies a custom-made aluminium heat sink**, which can be attached to the Pi 5 using thermal pastes. We find this complete cooling system particularly convincing.

Functional buttons

In terms of ergonomics, Retroflag is true to its reputation: the Power and Reset buttons are fully functional and connected to the GPIO pins on the Raspberry Pi 5.
This configuration enables the Pi 5 to be shut down or restarted in complete safety, provided that the "Safe Shutdown ’ function has been activated.

A word of warning about Wi-Fi

A word of warning: according to the user manual, using the USB 3.0 ports could affect Wi-Fi in 2.4 GHz mode.
If you encounter this problem, we recommend that you switch to Wi-Fi 5 GHz or use the Ethernet RJ45 port.

Availability and compatibility

The 64Pi CASE will be available in France in early 2025, at an estimated price of 29.99$.
We have not yet received a copy, so Recalbox is not yet 100% compatible with this box.
We'll keep you posted on developments in the coming weeks.

Photos: Retroflag