5 Websites to Download Free Emulator ROMs for iPhone & Android
While emulation has been around for over a decade, Apple’s recent decision to allow game emulators on the App Store has ushered in a new era, making emulation available for millions of users. Now, after installing the Delta emulator, the next step for anyone would be to download ROMs from the internet. However, considering the fact that threat actors are always lurking in the shadows, users need to be careful before downloading any file. To help with this problem, we have compiled a list of five malware-free emulator game ROM websites that you should check out.
1. Archive.org
Almost everyone knows Archive.org as the go-to place to find documents, books, and other literary pieces. But the website also hosts a whole section of software, including ROMs. While the website might be difficult to navigate, its catalog is perhaps the biggest, featuring almost every game across various platforms such as WiiU, PSP, PlayStation, Nintendo 3DS, and more. To install ROMs:
- Go to Archive.org.
- In the search bar at the top right, type the name of the ROM you want along with the platform.
- Browse through the options and select the most suitable one to install.
| What we like | What we didn’t like |
|---|---|
| Huge collection of games | The interface is difficult to navigate |
| Variety of different platforms |
2. Romspedia
As the name suggests, Romspedia is much like an encyclopedia for game ROMs, with over 10,000 titles already available! Additionally, the UI is simple to use, making the app super easy for anyone. However, if you don’t find the game you’re looking for, the website also has a Contact Us page where users can request specific games. This not only helps the developers make the most requested games available but also provides a channel for users wanting niche games.
Moreover, the website offers a variety of emulators for different game consoles. Furthermore, it supports a wide range of platforms, including PSP, GBA, 3DS, Wii, GameCube, and more. Here’s how to download games:
- Visit the Romspedia website.
- Navigate to the ROMs section.
- Choose the console for which you want to download the ROM.
- Download your desired game.
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
|---|---|
| Easy-to-use interface | Limited game library compared to others |
| Can easily request games niche from developers |
3. Retrostic
Next up on our list is Retrostic. While the interface might not seem particularly polished, the collection of over 80,000 ROMs is impressive. The website is clean, simple to use, and delivers exactly what it promises.
However, Retrostic offers one unique feature that sets it apart from other websites: ROM hacks. If you’re someone who can’t dedicate hours to unlocking items in a game or simply want a fun experience, you can download ROMs with various hacks available. It’s important to note that not every game will have a hack version. Additionally, the website supports a wide range of consoles, including Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, Atari, PlayStation, and 47 others. To download ROMs:
- Visit the Retrostic website.
- Click on the “View All ROMs” button.
- Select your console.
- Download your desired game.
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
|---|---|
| Huge collection of 80,000 games | Cheat versions aren’t available for all games |
| Cheats available | |
| Clean interface |
4. Emulatorgames.net
Although emulatorgames.net might seem similar to others, the website holds the biggest collection of consoles including Dreamcast, Apple II, Atari ST, and Pokemon Mini, making game downloads easy for everyone. This might not seem like a big feature, considering most websites host games for popular consoles. However, in the early 80s and 90s, the console market was filled with competitors launching new consoles and exclusive games. Therefore, if you grew up with a niche console, you’re more likely to find ROMs exclusively on this website. To find games:
- Go to the emulatorgames.net website.
- Navigate to the ROMs section.
- Select your console and install the game.
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
|---|---|
| Biggest collection of consoles available | |
| Sleek interface |
5. Emuparadise
At first glance, Emuparadise appears similar to other ROM websites, offering thousands of games alongside various emulators, game-related books, TV shows, and movies. However, the website offers a unique feature: online gameplay. The website allows users to play ROM games directly within the browser window, eliminating the need to download multiple games. Finally, in terms of consoles, the website offers support for a wide range of platforms, including Nintendo Virtual Box, Sega 32x, Nokia N-Gage, and more. To download ROMs:
- Visit the Emuparadise website.
- Navigate to the Console section and select your desired console.
- Search for the game and proceed with the download.
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
|---|---|
| Variety of games and game-related content | Limited consoles supported |
| Only website to allow in-browser gameplay |
