What it is
RetroArch is an open-source frontend for emulators, game engines and media players. Each emulator is a plugin called a core, downloaded from inside the app, covering systems from early arcade machines and home consoles through to handhelds. RetroArch gives them all the same menu, controller setup, save states, shaders and netplay.
Why it’s here
- One app for many systems. Download the cores you need and play through a single interface.
- Made for controllers. The whole menu works from a gamepad, from the couch.
On CoreDesktop
CoreDesktop installs RetroArch as a Flatpak from Flathub. Open it from the app grid, then use Online Updater › Core Downloader to get cores. Games aren’t included: load your own. update keeps RetroArch current along with your other Flatpaks.