The big picture: After years of restrictive policies that locked out game emulators, Apple has finally flung open the doors to classic gaming goodness on iOS – and we're already seeing a flow of emulators jumping aboard the platform. After Delta's release last month, two more emulation heavyweights have joined the fray.
Let's start with RetroArch, which is sort of like the Swiss Army knife of emulation. This open-source powerhouse has been letting gamers play their retro favorites on various platforms for years, and now it's officially on iOS. Fire it up, and you'll have a slew of emulation "cores" to choose from, covering dozens of classic consoles.
These consoles let users revisit thousands of retro gaming classics. Fans of 16-bit consoles like the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo can indulge in those glory days. For those more inclined toward handheld gaming, cores for the Nintendo DS and even the quirky Virtual Boy are included. You can check out the full list on the App Store listing.
RetroArch even incorporates the same core used by the newly-released PPSSPP app, allowing emulation of the PlayStation Portable on iOS devices.
Speaking of PPSSPP, this long-awaited iOS release is a dream come true for PSP fans. After nearly 12 years since launch, the "PlayStation Portable Simulator Suitable for Playing Portably" has finally landed on the App Store. But unlike some previous unofficial builds, this legit version does have a few limitations out of the gate.
The performance-boosting JIT (Just-In-Time) recompiler is absent due to Apple's restrictions, meaning you might see a CPU-emulation hit compared to other platforms. Fortunately, modern iOS devices pack enough punch to run most PSP games at full speed regardless. Other missing features like Vulkan graphics support and RetroAchievements integration are on the roadmap for future updates.
This emulator double-whammy on iOS is the result of increasing scrutiny on Apple's restrictive policies from regulators on both sides of the Atlantic. Under antitrust pressure, the tech giant finally relented last month, announcing a pivot that allows game emulators and external code execution in apps on its storefront.
The aforementioned emulators follow close on the heels of Delta - the first of its kind to drop for iOS. It's an all-in-one Nintendo emulator that can run NES, SNES, N64, Game Boy, and more.
For retro game enthusiasts sporting iPhones and iPads, it's truly a great time to be alive. The long overdue changes finally puts iOS on par with open platforms like Android when it comes to classic gaming preservation and enjoyment.