RetroArch
Emulator frontend for the libretro API
13.4k|stable|v1.22.2
Linux
Multi-platform emulation — Runs on 40+ platforms from Windows NT to modern consoles and mobile devices.
Shader support — Supports Cg, GLSL, and Slang shaders with multi-pass rendering.
Real-time rewind — Step backward through gameplay at any point without state files.
Input latency removal — Run-ahead feature reduces input lag by predicting controller input.
Video recording — Capture gameplay using FFmpeg with customizable codec options.
RetroArch is the reference implementation for the libretro API, unifying dozens of emulators and game engines under one portable frontend. It handles everything from rendering and audio on ancient hardware to modern console ports, making it the backbone for retro gaming across platforms. The focus on technical depth—shader pipelines, run-ahead latency removal, CRT resolution switching—appeals to enthusiasts who want accuracy and control.
OpenGL 1.1+, audio driver (ALSA/PulseAudio/CoreAudio/etc), libretro cores installed separately
Source on GitHub
pavilion