OldAndroid tabletsmight not have the fastestgraphics cardsfor modern AAA titles, but they’re perfect forretro gamesthat are equally fun and don’t have heavy system requirements. Plus, the best thing about playing on them is that you’re not confined to a single old platform like the PlayStation 1 or Nintendo 64 – you can rungamesfrom multipleconsoleson a single device.
My handy guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to play games on your Android tablet. By the end, you’ll have some of the best console games of all time in the palm of your hand – wherever you may be.
How to use the Delta emulator to play retro Nintendo games on iOS
The Delta emulator has made its mark on the Apple App Store – here’s how to install and use it on your iPhone to play Nintendo games.
Connect a controller to your Android tablet
It’s the best way to play retro games
Touchscreens aren’t the most precise interface, and it’s often easier to use a controller because of the familiar controls and authentic arcade-like feel. I’m using a PlayStation 4 Dualshock for this example, but Xbox and most third-party controllers will work and connect the same way.
- Go to Settings and openBluetooth.
Press and hold theShareandPS buttonson your Dualshock 4 until a white light starts flashing, indicating that it’s in pairing mode.
PressPair new deviceon your tablet and select the controller as your device to connect to.
- The light on the controller will turnbluewhen paired with the tablet.
6. Enjoy playing tablet games with your controller.
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If you love getting lost and honing your navigational abilities, I’ve played the best Metroidvania games and have some recommendations.
This is the easiest way to play retro games
Installing retro games from the Google Play Store is the easiest way, and there are countless titles to keep you entertained.
How to use the Gamma emulator to play classic PS1 games on your iPhone
A PlayStation 1 emulator has hit the Apple App Store. Interestingly, it’s available for both iPhone and iPad – unlike the Delta emulator.
Use emulation software to install games
Another option is to play games from most consoles
Another way to turn your Android tablet into a retro gaming console is with emulation apps like RetroArch. RetroArch is free on the Google Play Store and allows you to play games from the Atari 2600, PlayStation 1, and countless other platforms. It’s user-friendly, and you’ll be up and running in no time after following these easy steps.
RetroArch is a free, ad-free, open source, and cross platform frontend/framework for emulators, game engines, video games, media players, and other applications. Supported systems come in the form of libretro cores.
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From Samsung’s newest S9 tablet to the budget-friendly Fire HD 8, these are the best Android tablets you’re able to buy, according to our testing.
Where can you find game ROMS?
It’s complicated
While emulators are legal and freely available on Google Play and theApp Store, the same can’t be said forROMs, which are more of a gray area depending on their use. It’s legal to copy your own games as ROMS in the US for personal use if you don’t distribute them or use both copies simultaneously. Backups and archives might also be considered fair use, but we’ll only know for sure if it’s tested in court one day. On the other hand, downloading ROMs without owning the original copy of the game is illegal software piracy.
Pocket-lint does not support software piracy and recommends seeking professional legal advice if you’re uncertain about the ROMs you’re using.
My favorite skins for Delta emulator, and where to find more
With so many skins available for retro Nintendo emulator Delta, it can be difficult to pick which ones to use on your iPhone.
Q: Are software emulators legal?
Software emulators are legal and available to download from Google Play and the App Store.
Q: Are game ROMs legal?
Game ROMs are legal for backing up your own games and other fair uses as long as they don’t infringe on any copyrights and aren’t for commercial use.
Q: Can you connect a controller to an Android tablet?
You can connect most wireless controllers to an Android tablet via Bluetooth.
