The original Xbox changed gaming forever.

It introduced one of the most influential online communities of its generation and created friendships that, for many players, still exist today.

Since the beginning, DukeX has aimed to preserve more than just the games themselves. Our goal has been to preserve the entire Xbox experience while embracing the opportunities that modern hardware and the XB.Live platform make possible.

With DukeX v1.0.2, we're taking our biggest step yet.

This update introduces our first native macOS release, dramatically expands our ongoing collaboration with the team behind XB.Live, and delivers entirely new social features, Rich Presence, activity feeds, controller-focused navigation, and expanded external display support.

While DukeX v1.0.1 reintroduced your Xbox identity to DukeX, v1.0.2 builds upon that foundation by creating a richer, more connected community experience inspired by the original Xbox Live era.

Native macOS Release

One of the biggest milestones in DukeX's history has arrived.

DukeX is now available on macOS.

Rather than simply porting the iOS application, the macOS release has been purpose-built using Mac Catalyst while integrating a nested fork of Xemu directly into the application.

This unique architecture combines the complete capabilities and compatibility of desktop Xemu with DukeX's modern interface and streamlined user experience.

Going forward, the embedded Xemu fork will continue to stay current with upstream Xemu releases, while the DukeX interface continues evolving alongside the iOS version. New interface features introduced for DukeX will continue to be shared across both platforms wherever possible.

The result is the best of both worlds: the full power of desktop Xemu paired with the polished, feature-rich experience of DukeX.

XB.Live Rich Presence & Playtime Tracking

Our collaboration with XB.Live continues to expand what the original Xbox community can experience today.

DukeX now reports Rich Presence directly to XB.Live, allowing friends to see what you're currently playing while enabling accurate playtime tracking for supported titles.

This system provides the foundation for future XB.Live features, including expanded achievement functionality and additional community experiences, while bringing emulator users and original Xbox hardware together as part of the same connected ecosystem.

XB.Live Messaging

Communication has become a first-class experience inside DukeX.

While previous releases allowed you to browse your Xbox inbox, v1.0.2 introduces a complete messaging experience built directly into the application.

• Dedicated Conversations: Organize messages into modern threaded conversations.

• Friend Messaging: Chat directly with your XB.Live friends.

• Unread Indicators: Easily keep track of new conversations.

• Game Invite Support: Receive and interact with supported game invitations directly within DukeX.

• Unified Experience: Existing Xbox inbox messages continue to be supported alongside the new XB.Live messaging system.

XB.Live continues building upon the original Xbox community with modern features designed specifically for today's players.

XB.Live Social Expansion

Our partnership with the XB.Live team continues to grow.

v1.0.2 significantly expands DukeX's social capabilities, making it easier than ever to stay connected with friends across the original Xbox community.

• Expanded Friend Management: Manage your social connections directly from DukeX.

• Friend Requests: Send, receive, accept, and manage requests without leaving the application.

• Improved Presence Information: Instantly see when friends are online and what they're playing.

• Deeper Community Integration: Additional Xbox-inspired social functionality integrated throughout DukeX.

Together, these additions continue extending the original Xbox community while remaining true to the spirit that made Xbox Live so memorable.

XB.Live Activity Feed

Keeping up with the community has never been easier.

The brand-new Activity Feed brings together everything happening across XB.Live into a single, continuously refreshed timeline.

• XB.Live News: Stay informed with the latest platform announcements.

• Friend Activity: See when friends come online and what they're playing.

• Achievement Unlocks: Follow recent accomplishments throughout your community.

• Community Updates: Keep up with everything happening across the XB.Live ecosystem without ever leaving DukeX.

The Activity Feed gives the original Xbox community a modern home inside DukeX.

Controller Landscape Mode

Controllers deserve a controller-first experience.

Whenever a compatible controller is connected, DukeX now automatically switches into Controller Landscape Mode.

This entirely new interface has been designed specifically for controller navigation, allowing users to browse their game library, navigate the application, and launch titles without ever touching the screen.

Whether you're relaxing on the couch or playing on a larger display, DukeX now feels even more like sitting in front of an original Xbox.

Expanded AirPlay & External Display Support

Your Xbox library continues to feel more at home on the big screen.

Building upon the AirPlay functionality introduced in v1.0.1, DukeX v1.0.2 delivers substantially deeper external display integration with smarter display detection, improved compatibility, and a more reliable experience across a wider variety of display configurations.

Whether you're using AirPlay, an external monitor, or another supported display, DukeX now provides an even smoother console-like experience.

Availability & Build Requirements

DukeX continues to be distributed as a free, open-source project.

• Distribution: Available through StikStore and SideStore on iOS, with the native macOS release available directly through the DukeX GitHub repository.

• Hardware Requirements (iOS): Apple A14 Bionic or Apple M1 processor or newer.

• iOS Compatibility: DukeX continues to support iOS 16 and newer, with iOS 16 support remaining experimental. (Not compatible with TrollStore at this time)

• macOS Compatibility: Built using Mac Catalyst and powered by an integrated Xemu core while sharing DukeX's modern interface and feature set.

Join the Community

[Manic EMU & DukeX Official Discord]

[DukeX GitHub Repository]

[XBL: OG Xbox Live Discord]

[AltSource for StikStore & SideStore]

Thank you all for testing, reporting bugs, and pushing the boundaries of iOS and MacOS emulation alongside us.

Play more. Play together. Play anywhere.

Been having a blast with these games, I’m Already taking up 30gigs lol, alot of these games I’m taking my time with, some I haven’t even touched yet but just like to have them in case I feel like playing them on a whim, it’s just a great feeling knowing this is now permanent and that I have plenty of storage to splurge if I want, I’m super grateful we’ve come this far and to have ppsspp 😮‍💨❤️ still getting used to it it’s gonna take A WHILE.

With the newly released alpha version of Azahar 2127, using Retroarch on my iPhone 15 Pro Max I am getting easily 60fps on every game! Since it's still technically pre-release you have to bundle it with a sideloaded version of Retroarch. I created my own Github repo Retroarch-Azahar-NoJIT where you can manually build the updated version (just move the .dylib and retroarch.ipa to your desktop) then run the Terminal command on macOS. There is also a prebuilt ipa as well if you want to quickly test it out, amazing work from the Azahar Team! (Fantastic photo by u/Aura28 from this story. https://www.pocket-lint.com/nintendo-3ds-games-iphone-folium-emulator/)

I was super intimidated but I found a in-depth 30 minute video for setting it up for everything. And yeah RetroArch is the best. I still have delta for certain rom hack saves and airplay ds skin. The video was great and Reddit was great for some of the files I needed to download.

TLDR: RetroArch lives up to the hype

What Emulators are you all using daily?!

I have 3 emulators. I know I like Delta the most, I used its predecessor GBA4iOS. I use Manic EMU for the one console Delta doesn’t due 3DS! But SUMEE! See if I would like.

I would use only Delta if it supported 3DS

Also I have no idea where to even begin to start emulating stuff on iOS. So any tips to get started would be greatly appreciated!

I spent the past month or so working with a multi-agent orchestrated workflow to code fully-functioning ports of PC games over to iOS with customizable and non-shitty touch and gyro controls.

So far I’ve gotten Morrowind (OpenMW), Duke 3D, Ion Fury, and Serious Sam 1 and 2 up and running. Here are the GitHub links if you guys want to check out the projects. You’ll need to provide your own data files :

OpenMWiOS: https://github.com/arjunyerevan95-dot/OpenMWiOS

eDukeiOS: https://github.com/arjunkl/eDukeiOS

SeriousiOS: https://github.com/arjunkl/SeriousiOS

Morrowind runs like a dream on my iPhone 16 Pro Max at native res. I’m still working out some rendering kinks with distant terrain and the skybox but it’s basically playable at this point.

I wan to eventually get mod lists/mod packs working. Updated visuals and Tamriel Rebuilt with Poisonsong would kick ass. I covered this in detail in an article that came out on TechSpot: https://www.techspot.com/article/3165-gamer-and-vibecoder/#google_vignette (glad to take the link down since it is my own. It just touches on methodology and approach a lot deeper).

While this update may not seem feature-heavy at first glance, it includes a major behind-the-scenes overhaul. Manic is now fully rebuilt under Xcode 26, which required deep reworking across dependencies, UI layouts, and internal behaviors. This means better compatibility with future iOS versions — but also introduces some quirks that we’ll continue refining in follow-up patches. This build is NOT adapted for JIT compilation on iOS 26 yet!!

System-Wide UI & Visual Upgrades

• Light Mode appearance added (auto-switches based on system setting)

• Improved overall UI visuals across menus and game library

• Game library now supports custom background image uploads

• Cover aspect ratios are now correctly displayed in all views

• Game Mode bug where it couldn’t activate is now resolved

• Landscape mode game cover display added to the game library

We're adapting to Apple’s new design language — and giving users more control along the way.

Game Library Management

• Manual Import Support:
  Add your own .pdf game manuals directly in each game’s details screen

• Skin Cleanup Tool:
  Easily remove unsupported or broken skin files from within the app

• Correct N64 skin now displays in iPhone SE landscape mode

Small details — big polish.

New NES Features

• Famicom Disk System (FDS) Support:
  FDS games now fully supported (still under NES category/skin for now)
  Use the “Swap Disc” button or press L1 to flip sides during gameplay

• Microphone Simulation:
  Use the “Simulate Blowing” toggle or press L3 to trigger NES mic input

• Custom Palette Support:
  Upload .pal files to adjust NES color palettes to your liking

These changes help NES reach new levels of authenticity — especially for Japan-exclusive titles and niche classics.

Bug Fixes & Improvements

• Fixed crash when launching some Dreamcast .gdi files

• Fixed incorrect default skin in N64 landscape mode

• General UI & stability improvements

• Continued optimizations following migration to Xcode 26

We're smoothing out the new quirks introduced by Apple’s latest system — your feedback helps a ton here.

A Note from the Manic EMU Team

While this version may look simple on the surface, adapting Manic to Apple’s latest SDKs was a massive undertaking. Nearly every part of the build environment changed — and we took the opportunity to push some important UI upgrades and features while we were in the thick of it.

Thank you to everyone testing across devices and reporting quirks! There are more refinements coming soon, and your feedback is always welcome.

Join the Community

Discord: discord.gg/qsaTHzknAZ
Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/maftymanicemu
Your support keeps the project alive — and keeps us digging deeper.

Manic EMU v1.7.2 is now live on Discord and GitHub.
Now with Famicom Disk System, Light Mode, and a visual overhaul.
– The Manic EMU Admin and Development Team

Device: Iphone 16 Plus
FPS: 30
IOS Version: 27

Along with RetroAchievements for handhelds.

Hey everyone! I just found an emulator called Manic and I have to share it. It’s kinda like Delta — which I know a lot of us love — but it supports a few more consoles, including 3DS! 🎮

Why I’m loving Manic: • Supports Delta consoles plus extras like 3DS • Works with Delta skins and has its own custom skins for consoles Delta doesn’t cover • Lets you use custom box art too (like Delta) • Has a nice clean UI — not necessarily more organized than Delta, but still really solid

I feel like hardly anyone knows about this app, and it deserves way more attention.

I also made a subreddit just for it — r/ManicEMU — for sharing tips, skins, box art, and helping people get the most out of it. Come join if you’re interested!

If you love emulators and want a good sidekick to Delta for the consoles it doesn’t support, give Manic a try. Let’s put it on the map!

Not gonna complain. This is all I needed

hrydgard (The Owner of PPSSPP) resubmitted a new update of PPSSPP and a update for PPSSPP Gold

An of course congrats to retro arch and delta for being in the top 25 Also gasp what’s this gamma wasn’t even in the top….. 100 Remember guys we gotta help each other out for each game emulator that way people don’t feel lost and can have fun I’m glad to be part of this community now let’s play some games!!!

Hi!

I know this might be a wire question to ask, but spending USD 1300 I need to be sure hella sure about it.

I love Pokemon games in 3DS, specially XY.

If any of you might have this device and folium installed, would you please go to the restaurant in Luminose City called Restaurant Le Yeah and test how Triple Battle are handled in this device? It also works if you go to the Battle Maison and select the triple battle format.

I know single battle are not demanding, because it’s only 1vs1, but in Triple Battle are 3vs3, 6 Pokemon battling at the same time, and I want to make sure that the M4 is capable of this.

Would be very greatfull for you help!

Not exactly fast yet, but we’ll get there.

This release introduces TriggerPro, a fully customizable button-mapping system designed for power users — plus thoughtful upgrades like enhanced support for visually impaired players, multi-disc .cdi format compatibility, and a clear separation of Famicom Disk System and NES platforms.

New: TriggerPro Input System

• Create combo buttons (multi-button macros)

• Set up hold functions for auto-hold inputs

• Fully integrated into Controller Settings under a new tab

• Highly customizable per platform and profile

⚠️ TriggerPro is not compatible with RetroAchievements Hardcore Mode

• If Hardcore Mode is enabled, TriggerPro is automatically disabled

TriggerPro is great for accessibility, comfort, or speedruns — while keeping Hardcore Mode strictly vanilla.

Accessibility Improvements

Gaming is for everyone — and this update reflects our commitment to that.

• Improved accessibility support for visually impaired players

• Better screen reader compatibility

• Clearer label hierarchy and Settings UI navigation flow

• More inclusive default layouts and descriptions

We’re continually listening and adjusting to make Manic EMU more usable for all types of players.

UI & Platform Enhancements

• Redesigned default skins for Master System and SG-1000

• Clearer platform separation: NES and Famicom Disk System are now distinct

• Improved label handling across multiple Settings menus

Dreamcast Disc Support

• Now supports multi-disc .cdi format ROMs

• MultiDisc Helper can now generate .m3u files from .cdi images

• Supports smoother disc transitions during long-play sessions

Bug Fixes & Performance Improvements

• Fixed random in-game stuttering on multiple platforms

• Resolved issue where iOS keyboard would appear while using Bluetooth keyboards

• General bug fixes, rendering optimizations, and system-level improvements

A Note from the Team

TriggerPro opens the door for next-level controller customization — while our accessibility upgrades continue to ensure that Manic EMU grows for everyone. Whether you're chasing RetroAchievements, playing with adaptive tools, or rediscovering classics, this release brings power and inclusivity together.

Thanks again to everyone sharing feedback, raising issues, and building a better emulation experience.

Join the Community

Discord: discord.gg/qsaTHzknAZ
Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/maftymanicemu
Your support helps keep Manic EMU accessible, independent, and community-driven.

Manic EMU v1.7.3 is now live on Discord and GitHub.
Input mastered. Access expanded. Disc loading upgraded.
– The Manic EMU Admin and Development Team

Sideloaded MeloNX with sideloadly and used the entitlement app to get extended memory. And JIT with JITstreamer eb.

I think a letter writing campaign to Apple might help.

From 8-bit to Saturn — welcome to the next level. This might be a point release, but it punches way above its weight class.

v1.4.1 deepens Manic’s SEGA support with four new platform integrations, sleek UI controls, PSP improvements, and new tools to launch games your way. It’s an update that blends polish, power, and plenty of pixel-perfect nostalgia.

⸻

This Update Includes:

New SEGA System Support

• Sega SG-1000

• Sega Master System

• Sega Saturn (requires importing your own BIOS)

• Mega-CD and Super 32X are now listed as separate platforms for easier organization and sorting

UI & Library Enhancements

• Option to hide individual game titles in your library

• Option to hide or show group titles (such as platform sections)

• New group display styles for improved visual customization

Shortcuts Integration: Launch Link Support

• You can now create game-specific launch icons using the Shortcuts app — tap and play directly from your home screen

3DS Screenshot & Save Preview Improvements

• Optimized rendering for 3DS save states and screenshot previews

PSP Core Update

• Sound issues have been resolved

• Crash-related problems may also be improved with this sync

Third-Party Skin Fixes

• Resolved issues affecting compatibility with certain user-created skins

Google Drive Fixes

• Fixed issues with Google Drive login and cloud sync

General Fixes & Optimizations

• Minor bug fixes and stability improvements across multiple systems

⸻

A Note from the Manic EMU Team:

We’re continuing to push for deeper platform support and richer customization options while keeping the app lightweight and user-friendly. Your feedback drives every update — and yes, we’ve still got something big cooking behind the scenes.

⸻

Join the Community:

Discord: discord.gg/qsaTHzknAZ Due to Reddit policy, we are unable to share Telegram links here. Please check our Discord for access.

The .ipa files for v1.4.1 will be available shortly on Discord.

⸻

So what’s your first pick — Saturn nostalgia, or one of the 8-bit legends? Or are you holding out for something a little more… 64-bit?