If you’re a retro gaming enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of Delta Emulator, one of the best iOS emulators for playing classic Nintendo games. But what if you’re looking for alternatives—maybe for different platforms, better performance, or extra features? Whether you’re on Android, iOS, or PC, there are several great Delta Emulator alternatives worth trying.
From multi-system emulators to specialized ones for specific consoles, the right choice depends on your needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Delta Emulator alternatives, their features, compatibility, and why they stand out. Let’s dive in!
If you’re using the Delta Emulator to play Nintendo DS games, you’ll need to add essential system files: bios7.bin, bios9.bin, and firmware.bin. These BIOS files are required for proper DS game emulation, enabling features like save states, sound, and touchscreen support. Without them, DS games may not run or may experience glitches.
Why Look for Delta Emulator Alternatives?
Delta Emulator is fantastic for Nintendo games, but it’s iOS-only and limited to a few consoles like NES, SNES, N64, and Game Boy. If you want broader system support, better customization, or Android/PC compatibility, alternatives can be a game-changer.
Some users also seek emulators with cloud saves, cheat code support, or multiplayer options—features that Delta may lack. Whether you need a more powerful emulator or just a different UI experience, exploring alternatives ensures you get the best retro gaming setup.
1. RetroArch – The All-in-One Powerhouse
RetroArch is one of the most versatile emulators, acting as a frontend for multiple “cores” (emulation engines). It supports dozens of consoles, from NES and PlayStation to arcade systems, making it a top Delta alternative for multi-platform gamers.
One of its biggest strengths is cross-platform availability—it works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and even iOS (via sideloading). Features like shaders, netplay, and save states enhance the experience. However, its interface can be complex for beginners, requiring some setup.
2. PPSSPP – Best for PSP Games
If you loved the PlayStation Portable (PSP), PPSSPP is the best Delta alternative for this console. It’s lightweight, highly optimized, and runs smoothly even on mid-range devices.
PPSSPP supports HD upscaling, customizable controls, and even multiplayer via LAN. Available on Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, it’s a must-try for PSP fans. While Delta focuses on Nintendo, PPSSPP fills the gap for Sony handheld gaming.
3. Dolphin Emulator – For GameCube & Wii Games
Dolphin Emulator is the go-to choice for GameCube and Wii titles, offering near-perfect emulation. Unlike Delta, which sticks to older Nintendo systems, Dolphin brings more modern classics like Super Smash Bros. Melee and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess to life.
It supports 4K resolution, save states, and controller customization. Available on PC, Android, and even Raspberry Pi, Dolphin is perfect for high-end emulation. The only downside? It requires a powerful device for smooth performance.
4. Citra – Nintendo 3DS Emulation
For Nintendo 3DS games, Citra is the best Delta Emulator alternative. It delivers smooth gameplay with enhancements like resolution scaling and texture filtering.
Citra is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, with an experimental iOS version in development. While Delta covers older Nintendo handhelds, Citra lets you play newer titles like Pokémon Sun & Moon and Fire Emblem Awakening.
5. My Boy! – Best GBA Emulator for Android
If you’re specifically looking for a Game Boy Advance (GBA) emulator, My Boy! is a top contender. It’s fast, accurate, and packed with features like fast-forward, cheat codes, and link cable emulation for multiplayer.
While Delta supports GBA on iOS, My Boy! is the best Android alternative. The free version has ads, but the paid version is worth it for serious gamers.
6. Provenance – Delta-Like Experience for iOS
If you love Delta’s simplicity but want more console support, Provenance is a great iOS alternative. It emulates NES, SNES, Genesis, PS1, and more, all in a user-friendly package.
Since Delta is limited to Nintendo systems, Provenance expands your options. However, it requires sideloading, which can be tricky for non-jailbroken devices.
🔍 Comparison at a Glance
| Emulator | Supported Consoles | Platform | Ease of Use | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RetroArch | Multi-system: NES, SNES, GBA, N64, PS1, DS, etc. | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS | Moderate (setup needed) | Free | Modular core system, shaders, netplay, rewind, highly customizable |
| PPSSPP | PlayStation Portable (PSP) | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS | Easy | Free / Gold (donation) | HD graphics, save states, cheat support, controller compatibility |
| Dolphin Emulator | Nintendo Wii, GameCube | Android, Windows, macOS | Moderate to Advanced | Free | 1080p rendering, motion controls, texture packs, save/load states |
| Citra | Nintendo 3DS | Android, Windows, Linux | Moderate | Free | 3DS upscaling, touchscreen input, partial local wireless multiplayer |
| My Boy! | Game Boy Advance (GBA) | Android only | Very Easy | Free / Paid | Fast GBA emulation, BIOS-free play, link cable support, cheats, cloud saves |
| Provenance | NES, SNES, GBA, PS1, Genesis, N64, more | iOS, tvOS (via sideloading) | Easy | Free | Apple-native UI, controller support, cover art, smooth performance on iOS |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right alternative to the Delta Emulator comes down to your specific gaming needs and the systems you want to emulate.
Whether you’re aiming for an all-in-one powerhouse like RetroArch, the PSP-focused performance of PPSSPP, or the sleek iOS-native experience of Provenance, each emulator offers unique strengths.
Dolphin and Citra bring console-level quality to handheld devices, while My Boy! remains a lightweight and reliable choice for Game Boy Advance lovers.
With proper setup and legal ROM usage, these emulators can transform your device into a fully functional retro gaming machine. No matter your choice, each of these apps ensures a fun, nostalgic, and smooth gameplay experience on modern hardware.