Emulation

AppWizard
June 21, 2025
The NES emulator, 3dSen, was fully released today, and a fan-driven project called SpaghettiKart, a PC version of Mario Kart 64, has also been unveiled. SpaghettiKart is created through reverse engineering and features clean code without any lines from the original game, allowing for public sharing. It requires players to generate the O2R from their own ROMs and currently supports only the US version of Mario Kart 64. Compatibility with Mario Kart 64 HD is uncertain, and while future enhancements like Path Tracing effects and an HD Texture Pack are hoped for, they have not been confirmed. SpaghettiKart includes unique PC-only features such as a Track Editor, Custom Track Importer, Crystal Clear Audio, Harder CPUs, and Freecam. It is available for download with an installation guide.
BetaBeacon
June 19, 2025
Sega Forever program, which ported classic console titles to Android and iOS, was shut down in 2023. Sega is removing the last remaining games from the web, but they are currently free with all optional in-app purchases removed. It is recommended to download any games of interest sooner rather than later.
BetaBeacon
June 18, 2025
The PS2 emulator NetherSX2 has released a major update to version 2.0 (build 4248) with significant changes in appearance and performance, including a revamped touch control scheme and improved GameDB conversion script. Users cannot have both the standard and Classic versions installed on the same device, and save states are not compatible between the two versions.
AppWizard
June 14, 2025
The shadPS4 emulator has made significant progress in running the racing game Driveclub on PC, achieving nearly full playability and supporting 60 frames per second (FPS). A recent demonstration by YouTube content creator ‘talhaONE’ showcased the emulator's performance on a high-end setup, where it delivered a smooth 60FPS experience, a notable improvement from the previous 38FPS. The original PS4 version of Driveclub is capped at 30FPS, prompting gamers to seek emulation for enhanced performance. However, there are still minor visual issues, such as problematic rain effects in the cockpit camera. Optimism exists that Driveclub will be fully playable on shadPS4 by the end of summer 2025, ahead of initial predictions. Other PS4-exclusive titles like God of War III Remastered and The Order 1886 are also potential candidates for emulation enhancements.
Winsage
June 10, 2025
Arm-powered Windows devices using Qualcomm Snapdragon processors are noted for their sleek designs and long battery life. While core compatibility issues have been largely resolved, gaming remains a challenge due to anti-cheat program compatibility, which can prevent games from launching. Chris Bergey from Arm Holdings mentioned that most users spend about 90% of their time on applications with native Arm versions. Major developers like Epic Games are exploring ways to improve compatibility with Arm-based systems. Additionally, anti-cheat issues affect the Steam Deck, which operates on an AMD processor but lacks native versions of several popular anti-cheat systems. As Arm-based Windows devices gain market share, game developers are expected to prioritize support for these platforms. The integration of Windows and Steam into Arm-based handheld devices could transform the gaming landscape, especially with improved battery life and efficiency.
BetaBeacon
June 10, 2025
The Anbernic RG557 was released with an update introducing "Anbernic AI," a chatbot on gaming handhelds that provides answers and translations. The author attempted to replicate this using AI chatbots Gemini Gems and ChatGPT GPTs, with the help of NotebookLM. NotebookLM was used to create gaming encyclopedias by uploading strategy guides for retro games, converting CBR or CBZ files to PDF for compatibility. The author found this to be a useful resource for gaming information.
Winsage
June 10, 2025
Apple has introduced macOS Tahoe, the last major version compatible with Intel-based Macs. The final Intel-based models eligible for the upgrade are: - MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) - MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports) - iMac (27-inch, 2020) - Mac Pro (2019) These models will receive the full suite of features when macOS Tahoe launches later this fall, but functionalities reliant on Apple Intelligence will be exclusive to Apple Silicon devices. Intel-based Macs will continue to receive security updates for an additional three years. Apple is also phasing out Rosetta, which allowed non-native apps to run on Apple Silicon, and future software compatibility will be limited to macOS 26 and macOS 27.
AppWizard
June 8, 2025
Microsoft is integrating its Xbox and Windows platforms by including Xbox console games in the Xbox app on Windows, suggesting a strategy for a unified library of Xbox and PC games. The company is also working on enabling visibility for games from Steam and the Epic Games Store within the Xbox PC app. Microsoft has rebranded its Xbox PC app to "Xbox PC" and aims to establish it as a central hub for PC gaming. Additionally, Microsoft is merging Xbox and Windows strengths for handheld devices, with changes expected later this year. There is speculation about whether Xbox console games will become playable on PC, potentially utilizing cloud infrastructure or emulation technology.
BetaBeacon
June 4, 2025
Dolphin emulator release 2506 includes improvements to address audio stuttering on lower-end machines, fixes for frame pacing issues, new anisotropic filtering options for graphics, ability to emulate games beyond 60fps, full compatibility with GameCube and Wii catalogs, and new features for Android users.
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