In a recent development, Apple has shown a slight shift in its approach towards game emulation on its devices. This change has paved the way for the introduction of new emulators on the iOS App Store, including RetroArch. RetroArch, a frontend app for game emulation, was officially added to the iOS App Store on 15th May, offering access to a wide range of system emulators. Developed by Daniel De Matteis, this app currently supports over 75 system emulators, with a vast selection of Nintendo console variants available for users.
One unique aspect of RetroArch is that it serves as a frontend application, allowing users to upload individual emulator ‘cores’ onto the platform. This design enables the incorporation of a diverse range of emulation software, thereby expanding the library of systems that users can access. At launch, RetroArch includes support for popular systems such as NES, SNES, GB, GBA, DS, Virtual Boy, Sega consoles, NEC PC Engine, PlayStation, and PSP, among others. However, it does not currently support more advanced emulators like Dolphin for GameCube and Wii due to restrictions related to JIT compilation.
Limitations and Compatibility Issues
It is important to note that RetroArch has certain limitations, particularly when it comes to running powerful emulators on iOS devices. The app requires iOS 14.2 or later to function properly, and there are restrictions in place that prevent the use of emulators like Dolphin for GameCube and Wii, as well as Dreamcast cores. These limitations stem from the constraints around JIT compilation, which restricts the full capabilities of certain emulators on the platform. As a result, users may not be able to enjoy GameCube and Wii games on their iPhones using RetroArch at the moment.
Looking ahead, RetroArch is poised for further growth and development in the realm of game emulation. With plans to release a macOS version in the future, the app aims to reach a broader audience across different Apple devices. Additionally, RetroArch’s availability on the Google Play Store and Steam provides users with alternative platforms to explore game emulation. As the app continues to evolve, it is likely that more features and compatibility enhancements will be introduced to enhance the overall user experience.
The addition of RetroArch to the iOS App Store signifies a significant step towards expanding access to game emulation on Apple devices. By providing a versatile and user-friendly platform for running multiple emulators, RetroArch opens up new possibilities for gaming enthusiasts to explore a diverse range of classic and modern gaming systems. Despite certain limitations, the app represents a valuable addition to the emulation landscape, offering a glimpse into the future of gaming on iOS devices.
Leave a Reply