retroarch
Run emulators, play retro games
TLDR
Start in the menu mode
Start in full screen mode
List all compiled features
Set the path of a configuration file
Display help
Display version
SYNOPSIS
retroarch [options] [path/to/content]
PARAMETERS
--help
Display help information.
--config
Specify a custom configuration file to use.
--menu
Force the menu to be displayed.
--fullscreen
Start RetroArch in fullscreen mode.
--windowed
Start RetroArch in windowed mode.
--resolution
Specify a custom resolution for the window.
--libretro
Load a specific libretro core.
The path to the game or content to load.
--verbose
Enable verbose logging.
--features
List available features.
DESCRIPTION
RetroArch is a modular, cross-platform frontend designed to run emulators, game engines, video games, media players and other applications through dynamic shared libraries.
It allows users to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles, through a sleek graphical interface.
Beyond gaming, RetroArch supports various 'cores' for tasks such as media playback and development tools.
RetroArch's key strengths include its libretro API, cross-platform compatibility, advanced features like shaders and netplay, and unified configuration across different platforms and cores.
It aims to provide a single, consistent experience regardless of the platform or content being used.
The core system allows for a wide range of functionalities, with new cores being constantly added and updated, extending the capabilities of the frontend.
CAVEATS
Configuration can be complex, requiring careful tuning for optimal performance. Core compatibility varies.
CORES
Cores are dynamically linked libraries containing the emulation or application logic. They are loaded by RetroArch at runtime to provide the desired functionality. Each core emulates a different system or performs a different task.
CONFIGURATION
RetroArch's behavior is primarily controlled through a configuration file. This file allows users to customize various aspects of the frontend, including video and audio settings, input mappings, and core options. The configuration file is typically located in the RetroArch directory.
LIBRETRO API
The libretro API defines a standard interface for emulators and other applications to interact with RetroArch. This API allows cores to be easily integrated into the frontend, providing a consistent experience across different platforms.
HISTORY
RetroArch evolved from earlier emulators like the Genesis Plus GX and Mednafen. The development began in 2010. It aims to provide a unified interface for many different emulators, simplifying the user experience. Usage has grown significantly over the years, especially with the rise of emulation and retro gaming.