After more than a year of anticipation and design previews, Epilogue is set to launch preorders for its latest innovation, the SN Operator, starting tomorrow. Building on the success of the GB Operator released in early 2021, this standalone USB cartridge slot allows enthusiasts to play and preserve classic Nintendo console games on PCs, Macs, or handheld devices like the Steam Deck using original cartridges. While the GB Operator catered to Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and GBA games, the SN Operator expands compatibility to include Super Nintendo and Super Famicom titles.

Those eager to get their hands on the SN Operator can place preorders at 12 PM ET on December 30th, priced at $59.99—$10 more than its predecessor, the GB Operator, which remains available. Customers can expect the new hardware to ship in April 2026.

The SN Operator connects seamlessly to computers or handhelds via USB, integrating with Epilogue’s Playback app. This software comes equipped with an SNES emulator to run original game cartridges, though it supports other emulators if users have preferences. Games that originally required accessories like the Super NES Mouse or Super Scope are also compatible through Playback, utilizing a computer mouse instead of the original peripherals.

Beyond expanding console compatibility, the SN Operator offers features that will delight retro gaming collectors with extensive libraries. The Playback app can verify cartridge authenticity, ensuring that rare flea market finds are genuine and not counterfeit. It also allows users to create digital backups of their cartridges, including saved game data, ensuring that collections are preserved even if the physical cartridges fail. The SN Operator supports any cartridge playable on Nintendo’s original hardware, including unintentional bootlegs. However, Epilogue advises users to back up only cartridges they own, discouraging the use of the device to duplicate extensive collections from friends.