Best Emulators to Run Old Games on Linux 🎮🐧

Linux is an emulation powerhouse! Whether you want to relive childhood classics or explore games from consoles you never owned, Linux has top-tier emulators for every system. From retro NES games to PlayStation 2 and even Switch, here are the best emulators to run old games on Linux in 2025!

🚀 Why? Supports multiple gaming consoles under one interface.

Key Features:
✅ Emulates NES, SNES, N64, PS1, PSP, GBA, Sega, Atari, and more!
✅ Uses Libretro cores for maximum performance
✅ Shader and filter support for HD enhancements
✅ Netplay for multiplayer gaming online
✅ Runs on Steam (if you prefer it inside Steam)

🚀 Why? Plays GameCube and Wii games at 4K resolution with enhanced graphics.

Key Features:
✅ HD upscaling (up to 8K!)
✅ Works with real Wii Remotes & GameCube controllers
✅ Netplay for online multiplayer
✅ Runs most Wii/GameCube games smoothly

🚀 Why? Best way to play PS2 games in HD on Linux.

Key Features:
✅ Custom resolution support (4K/1080p)
✅ Full controller support (PS/Xbox/Keyboard)
✅ Vast compatibility list for PS2 games
✅ Save state feature (pause and resume games anywhere)

🚀 Why? Runs PSP games in HD with improved textures.

Key Features:
✅ Upscales PSP games to HD/4K
✅ Works with touchscreens, controllers, keyboards
✅ Supports savestates & cheats
✅ Online multiplayer via LAN

🚀 Why? Plays Nintendo Switch games on Linux.

Key Features:
✅ Runs popular Switch games (Zelda: BOTW, Mario Kart 8, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate)
✅ Vulkan & OpenGL support for smooth rendering
✅ 60 FPS support on powerful hardware
✅ Controller support (Pro Controller, Xbox, PS4/5, Joy-Cons)

🚀 Why? The only stable 3DS emulator for Linux.

Key Features:
✅ Plays 3DS games in HD resolution (better than real 3DS!)
✅ Gyroscope support (for motion-controlled games)
✅ Multiplayer via local Wi-Fi emulation
✅ Shader & texture filtering for improved graphics

🚀 Why? The most accurate NES & SNES emulator with zero lag.

Key Features:
✅ 99% game compatibility (including homebrew games)
✅ Pixel-perfect scaling for retro accuracy
✅ Cheats, rewind, and netplay support
✅ Built-in achievements system

Installation:
Download Mesen (AppImage available)

Best For: Fans of classic 8-bit and 16-bit Nintendo games.

🚀 Why? Faster and more accurate than ePSXe for PS1 games.

Key Features:
✅ 1080p and 4K upscaling
✅ Fast performance on low-end hardware
✅ Supports real PS1 controllers via USB
✅ Save states & widescreen hacks

🚀 Why? The only stable Xbox (OG) emulator for Linux.

Key Features:
✅ Runs Halo, Jet Set Radio Future, Fable, Ninja Gaiden
✅ Works with real Xbox controllers
✅ Supports save states & custom resolutions

🚀 Why? The only working PS3 emulator with decent performance.

Key Features:
✅ Plays over 600+ PS3 games
✅ Supports Vulkan for better graphics performance
✅ Allows custom resolutions (up to 4K)
✅ DualShock 3/4, Xbox, and keyboard support

🏆 Which Emulator Should You Choose?

✅ All-in-One Emulator? → RetroArch
✅ GameCube & Wii? → Dolphin
✅ PlayStation 2? → PCSX2
✅ PSP Games? → PPSSPP
✅ Nintendo Switch? → Yuzu
✅ Xbox (Original)? → Xemu
✅ PS3? → RPCS3

With these top Linux emulators, you can bring back your favorite gaming memories and experience old-school classics in HD! 🎮🐧

💬 What’s your favorite emulator? Let me know in the comments! 😊