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Batocera.linux

Free, open-source retro gaming Linux distribution that turns a PC or single-board computer into a console.

Open sourceEmulators
Visit Batocera.linuxSee 3 alternatives
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About Batocera.linux

Batocera.linux is a dedicated retro-gaming operating system. Instead of installing it as an app, you write it to a USB stick or SD card and boot from it, so an old laptop, a mini PC, a Raspberry Pi or a handheld becomes a games console without changing what is on its internal drive (you can also install it permanently). It bundles a wide range of emulators and RetroArch cores covering more than 250 systems, behind an EmulationStation interface that works with most controllers out of the box. Extras include shaders, bezels, rewind, themes and RetroAchievements support. Images are offered for x86 PCs, the Steam Deck, Raspberry Pi boards and a long list of Anbernic, AYN, Retroid and other handhelds. It is completely free and open source, funded by donations and merchandise, and you have to provide your own legally owned games. Because it replaces the operating system while running, it suits a dedicated gaming box rather than a computer you also use for other work.

Best for: People building a dedicated retro console from a spare PC, Raspberry Pi or handheld.

Pros and cons

What works

  • Boots from USB or SD without touching the main drive
  • Covers 250+ systems with little setup
  • Images for Raspberry Pi, Steam Deck and many handhelds

Why people leave

  • Takes over the whole machine while it runs
  • Less suited to tinkering with individual emulator builds
  • Desktop use alongside other apps is not the goal

Top Batocera.linux alternatives

See all 3
  1. 1RetroDECK logo
    RetroDECK

    Similar all-in-one emulator setup that runs as an app on your normal Linux desktop or SteamOS.

    66.5
  2. 2RetroArch logo
    RetroArch

    Gives the same emulator cores as a regular app on Windows, Mac, Linux and mobile.

    62.6
  3. 3OpenEmu logo
    OpenEmu

    A polished all-in-one emulator app for Mac users who'd rather not boot a separate system.

    59.6

Why people left Batocera.linux

In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.

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Reviews

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Batocera.linux: common questions

Is Batocera.linux free?

Yes. Batocera.linux is free, open-source software.

Is Batocera.linux open source?

Yes.

What platforms does Batocera.linux run on?

Batocera.linux is available for Linux.

What are the best alternatives to Batocera.linux?

The highest-ranked Batocera.linux alternatives right now are RetroDECK, RetroArch and OpenEmu. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.

See all 3 Batocera.linux alternatives