After 39 years, it looks like modders finally have a fix for the NES's fatal flaw
The original NES console has a fatal flaw in the form of an unreliable pin connector that can make getting cartridges to work a massive pain on aging systems. Various aftermarket solutions have existed for some time, but they've all come with compromises and caveats. Now, at last, it looks like a group of modders have finally gotten to what might just be the perfect solution.
The original, VCR-style front loading NES accepts games through a pin connector where you have to insert a cartridge and push down on a spring-loaded mechanism to lock that cart in place. Over time, the pins in that connector wear out, keeping cartridges from making a good connection and causing the system's power light to blink red as it fails to recognize the game.
It's possible to fix the connector by hand, but that involves bending each of the dozens of pins back into place manually, a process that takes some time and a decent amount of trial and error. An aftermarket replacement called Blinking Light Win completely fixes the issues with the original connector, but it's long since stopped being manufactured and locks cartridges into the console with what users not-so-affectionately refer to as a "death grip." Seriously, I have a Blinking Light Win installed in my NES and I have to keep a pair of pliers next to the console just to get the cartridges out.
6 months ago @reventlow and I discussed kitting our NES consoles with a RGR clear shell; however, we both hated the idea of using the unreliable OG 72-pin connector. So we embarked on a journey to fix the sin @nintendo committed 35 years ago, say hello to the Ninten-drawer: a
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