Retro Game Emulation on an iPhone

Retro Game Emulation on an iPhone

Last updated: 27JAN2022 (see Changelog for details)

The iPhone can do a lot of things seamlessly, and it’s a very powerful device. But something as simple as running an NES game can be quite challenging. So let’s set up your iPhone as a retro game emulation device — no jailbreaking required.

Like with my previous video about gaming on an iPhone (which covered standalone games, Apple Arcade, and streaming), the Backbone One is an essential component of gaming on iOS. There are other options available, like the Razer Kishi or GameSir X2 BT controller, but the Backbone One is miles better than these options thanks to its ease of use and helpful app integration.

One final note before we get started: emulation on iOS is a moving target. With each new iOS update, some things may get broken, or (very rarely) things might actually improve. My advice is to be patient with new iOS updates, and give the development teams to catch up. I’ll keep this guide updated with the latest developments going forward.

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Review: iPhone as a Gaming Handheld

Review: iPhone as a Gaming Handheld

Over 50% of the US phone market share comes from the iPhone, but it is rarely seen as a gaming device. In this video, let’s look at standalone games, Apple Arcade, and how to use streaming to transform your iPhone into a gaming handheld with some help from the BACKBONE ONE controller.

This is the first of two videos. In the next video, we’ll focus on retro game emulation and sideloading your own apps.

Buy a BACKBONE ONE

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Review: GameSir X2 Bluetooth and X2 Telescopic Controllers

Review: GameSir X2 Bluetooth and X2 Telescopic Controllers

Today we’re going to look at two telescopic controllers from GameSir: the X2 (2021 d-pad variant) and the brand new X2 Bluetooth. Are either of these worth getting for phone-based gaming?

GameSir X2 (Amazon)
GameSir X2 (AliExpress)

GameSir X2 Bluetooth (Amazon)
GameSir X2 Bluetooth (AliExpress)

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Review: BigBig Won Elitist S Controller

Review: BigBig Won Elitist S Controller

This controller has a silly name, but it may be my favorite sub-$50 controller. It has wide compatibility, superb craftsmanship, and features that are actually useful. Let’s take a deep dive on all the things I like about it, and a few of the things I’m not super excited about.

Buy the device here, and be sure to use code QY3QJ6HY for an additional 10% off.

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