After the success of the GB Operator launched in 2021 for Game Boy cartridges, Romanian company Epilogue is back with the SN Operator. This new device, available for $71.99, lets you manage your Super Nintendo and Super Famicom cartridges directly from your PC, Mac, or Steam Deck. An elegant solution to preserve, play, and authenticate original SNES cartridges.

According to Retro Dodo, the SN Operator connects to your computer via USB-C and works with the Playback application, which handles all of the device’s features. Easy to set up, simply plug in the device, install the software, and you’re ready to explore your SNES collection in a whole new way.

Saves, backups, and data management

The main function of the SN Operator is save management. You can transfer saves from your cartridges to your PC to secure them, modify them, or simply preserve them forever. The reverse operation is also possible: loading a save from your computer back onto an original cartridge or a flashcart.

This feature is particularly useful when replacing the internal batteries in cartridges. Back up your progress on PC, replace the battery, then reload your save: your 100+ hours on Final Fantasy VI are preserved for the next 20–30 years.

The device also allows you to dump your entire games to create legal backups of your collection. You can also load ROMs or homebrew games onto blank cartridges or flashcarts, opening the door to a whole creative scene.

The GB Operator / Image: Damien McFerran / Time Extension

Playing directly from your cartridges

As highlighted by Gizmodo, the SN Operator is not an FPGA-based system like the Analogue Super NT (which is no longer sold). It reads data from the cartridge and lets software emulation handle the rest. The experience, however, remains smooth and faithful.

Through the Playback application, you can play your SNES games directly from original cartridges, with imperceptible latency and modern features such as fast forward, soft reset, support for modern Bluetooth controllers, cheats, and even RetroAchievements integration to track your accomplishments. Saves are automatically synchronized, allowing you to switch between your PC and your original console without losing progress.

A fun bonus: the SN Operator supports special peripherals like the Super Scope and the SNES mouse, which are emulated in software to work on PC. Battle Clash and Mario Paint, watch out.

Cartridge authentication

One of the most appreciated features of the GB Operator makes a return: counterfeit detection. According to the official Epilogue website, the SN Operator deeply analyzes the cartridge’s electronic circuits to identify manufacturing markers that counterfeiters attempt to replicate. The detection rate reaches 98.7% accuracy.

With the growing number of increasingly convincing reproductions and bootlegs, this feature becomes essential for collectors who want to authenticate their purchases before proudly placing them on the shelf.

Compatibility and protections

The SN Operator is compatible with PC, Mac, and Steam Deck, and includes protection against overcurrent and electrostatic discharge. Physical guides ensure proper cartridge alignment to prevent mechanical damage. Epilogue takes the integrity of your rare cartridges seriously.

As noted by Time Extension, the Playback software evolves regularly with new features. With the GB Operator, Epilogue has proven it can maintain and improve its products over time.

What’s next?

Epilogue has confirmed on Twitter that a NES Operator is in the works. For those looking to digitize their retro collection, the SN Operator is an excellent starting point, with the hope of one day seeing similar devices for the N64 and Nintendo DS.

The SN Operator is available now on Epilogue’s website for $71.99. For SNES collectors, it’s an investment that combines video game preservation, modern gameplay, and peace of mind for your precious saves.