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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Portal 64: The First Slice was a free fan-made Nintendo 64 demake of Valve’s Portal. Released out of beta on 4 January 2024, it included the first 13 of the original game’s 19 test chambers—not a complete conversion. The original project repository now describes itself as an archive and says the original author no longer maintains it, so the January 2024 release report should not be taken as confirmation that a download is still available.
What Portal 64: The First Slice included
The January 2024 release covered the first 13 of Portal’s 19 test chambers, according to PC Gamer’s release report. It was a playable slice of the puzzle game, not the whole original campaign.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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| 1 |
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Nintendo 64 Console, Premium Bundle (Renewed) | $161.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo 64 System - Video Game Console (Renewed) | $126.12 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Nintendo 64 (Renewed) | $169.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Nintendo 64 System - Video Game Console | $90.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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N64 System with Controller, Hookups, and Mario 64 Game (Renewed) | $216.60 | Buy on Amazon |
The project’s README lists working portals and a portal gun, physics, lighting, main and pause menus, sound effects and dialogue, cutscenes, and multiple subtitle and audio languages. These are features claimed by the project itself, rather than an independent assessment. The README also lists unfinished work and bugs, consistent with the project’s “First Slice” label.
How to play Portal 64 on N64 or an emulator
The project README describes distributing the game as a .bps patch, which is used to produce a playable N64 ROM. It describes two ways to play: with an emulator or on physical Nintendo 64 hardware. Its build instructions also say users need to add a Portal PC folder. Follow the project’s own instructions for the patch and required files; the reviewed sources do not provide a verified compatibility guide for particular emulators, ROMs, or hardware.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- Nintendo 64 Console (Black): Retro gaming console in a sleek black finish.
- Two Controllers (Red & Blue): Includes two vibrant controllers for multiplayer gaming.
- 256KB Memory Card: Save your game progress easily with ample storage.
- HDMI Adapter: Modern connectivity for easy setup with today’s TVs
- Power Adapter: Essential power supply included for immediate play.
Emulator
An emulator is the software-based route described by the project. Check that your chosen setup can use the project’s patching and resulting ROM format; no specific emulator or performance result is established by the available sources.
Original Nintendo 64 hardware
The README describes play on a physical N64. A flash cartridge is one possible way to run a patched ROM on original hardware, but the project does not specify or endorse a model. Check compatibility and current product details before buying anything.
Is the Portal 64 download still available?
Availability today is not confirmed. PC Gamer reported that the First Slice was free to download when it came out of beta on 4 January 2024. The original Portal 64 repository now says it is no longer maintained by its original author and is an archive for possible forks. That status does not establish whether a particular archived build or fork can currently be downloaded, nor whether it is safe or compatible.
Why was Portal 64 taken down?
PC Gamer reported on 11 January 2024 that creator James Lambert said Valve had asked him to take the project down because it depended on Nintendo’s proprietary libraries. Lambert confirmed the request to the publication, while saying the reasoning was not entirely clear. PC Gamer’s report establishes the reported request and the creator’s account; it does not establish a court ruling or a definitive legal analysis. It also does not settle the status of every archive or fork.
Rank #3
- Sleek Black N64 Console: A classic Nintendo 64 reimagined in a bold black finish, blending retro charm with a modern aesthetic.
- Two Vibrant Controllers: Jump straight into multiplayer fun with a red and blue controller included, perfect for head-to-head gaming sessions.
- Save & Store with Ease: The included 256KB memory card gives you plenty of space to save game progress across your favorite titles.
- Modern Display Ready: An HDMI and cable are included, delivering a clean, high-quality connection to today's TVs right out of the box.
- Everything You Need to Play: Complete with a power and all essentiala, this is ready for instant setup — ideal for nostalgic fans and curious newcomers alike.
What the “First Slice” name means
“First Slice” is important context: this was a partial fan demake, with 13 of the original 19 chambers reported in the January 2024 build. The project’s README described substantial gameplay and presentation features, but also outstanding work. It should not be mistaken for an official Valve release, a complete Portal conversion, or a paid N64 product.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Nintendo 64 game console
Rank #4
- 64-Bit Graphics
- Cartridge based game system (no scratched games!)
- Excellent game library available (over 300)
- Inexpensive compared to newer gaming systems
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
