NESP32

An inexpensive, DIY wireless network interface for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) based on the ESP32 microcontroller.

About

Provides Internet access, media streaming, and online gaming capabilities to NES software.
Built using the M5 StickS3, a ~$20 all-in-one IoT development kit that includes a dual core processor, flash storage, audio, WiFi, color LCD screen, battery, USB interface, and buttons. The M5 StickC-Plus2 is also fully supported.
A custom hat plugs into the top of the device and connects to controller port 2 of the NES.
Extensible firmware provides an API that any cartridge-based software can interface with. A setup program allows the wifi and USB storage to be configured from the NES itself.
The NESP32 is an evolution of NES Radar where the controller port serial interface was originally conceived.
This project is still just a proof of concept but with your help it could someday become a real boy!

A Wikipedia reader: search and read articles directly on the console.

Play NES music in VGM/VGZ format and PCM audio at up to 20kHz through the console's own sound chip.

Live air traffic around any airport, on a radar scope drawn by the console.

NPR's live .mp3 radio stream with optional headline news.

Current conditions and a 5-day forecast for your zip code, with pictures.

The original NES Dr. Mario and Contra modified for 2-player over a LAN or WAN!

Configure Wi-Fi/USB and test connectivity directly from the console.

Benchmark the maximum speed the interface can support over the controller port.

Get the parts. An M5 StickS3 and the NESP32 hat to go with it.
Install the software from the firmware page right from your browser.
Get the cartridge ROM. Use it with a flash cart or MiSTer FPGA w/SNAC adapter.
Plug it in. Attach the hat to the S3's bottom GPIO header, furthest from the LCD screen, and connect the NESP32 to controller port 2.
Boot it up! Power up the NESP32 and the NES, then run the Setup utility to join a WiFi network.

Interested in trying out or even developing for the NESP32? We'd love to grow a community around this project.

Please join our Discord!