Project64 vs RetroArch
Project64
pj64-emu.comRetroArch
retroarch.comSide by side
| Figure | Project64 | RetroArch |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | — | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Nintendo 64 Emulators | 7.1 (#19) | 8.3 (#5) |
| Spec score · Game Console Emulators | 7.2 (#34) | 8.4 (#7) |
| Graphics | The maker says it can play N64 games on a PC with high definition graphics and excellent compatibility. | RetroArch supports stackable shaders that can improve game rendering or replicate the look of CRT monitors. |
| Open source | The source code is available from the Project64 Git repository. | RetroArch/Libretro is an open-source project that has been around since 2012. |
| Purpose | Project64 is an emulator for the Nintendo 64 and 64DD, written in C++. | RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines and media players that runs classic games through a graphical interface with unified settings. |
| Support | The maker directs users to its Discord server for support and questions. | The FAQ directs users to the forums, Discord and documentation for help. |
Plans
In their own words
RetroArch
RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines, and media players, bringing them under a unified settings system. The RetroArch/Libretro project includes more than 200 cores across those categories. Its menu can group scanned games by system and display thumbnails and animated backgrounds. Common game controllers configure automatically when plugged in, and button actions can also be assigned manually.
Stackable shaders can change rendered graphics or imitate the look of CRT monitors. Built-in netplay supports hosting or joining network gaming sessions, including spectator mode. RetroArch can record gameplay to video files and stream games to Twitch or YouTube. Versions are listed for Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, macOS, and web browsers. RetroArch is free and open source under GPL version 3; the libretro API uses an MIT license. Features differ by platform and store version: the browser edition has lower performance and fewer capabilities than the full version, while Steam lacks Core Updater and thumbnail scraping and offers a selected core set.