RetroDECK vs ROCKNIX

RetroDECK is a free retro gaming platform for Linux handhelds, desktops, HTPCs and PC consoles. It packages emulators, engines, ports, clients, utilities and the ES-DE frontend in a preconfigured Flatpak environment. The RetroDECK Configurator handles file compression and management, BIOS validation, preset management and component tuning. Steam ROM Manager and ES-DE favorites integration let users add games to a Steam library, while Steam Input layouts support devices such as Steam Deck and external controllers. RetroDECK can connect to RetroAchievements, and PortMaster provides a continuously updated catalog of downloadable ports. Sandboxing isolates the package components. The software supports x86_64 Linux systems, including Steam Deck and Linux desktops. Games, proprietary BIOS files and firmware are not included, so users must provide legally obtained files where required. Save states and cheat support are available. RetroDECK is volunteer-run software; donations are optional and do not provide perks or early access. The plan costs nothing.

ROCKNIX is a free, immutable Linux distribution for handheld gaming devices, focused on retro gaming emulation. Installation means downloading a device image, flashing it to an SD card or internal storage, then booting the device. It supports local and remote multiplayer, save states, video filters, in-game touch controls on supported devices, and custom performance and power profiles. Bluetooth audio and controller connections, HDMI and USB audio/video output, and music and video playback are also included. Cloud and LAN synchronization are available through Syncthing and rclone; built-in VPN support covers WireGuard, Tailscale and ZeroTier. ROCKNIX integrates RetroAchievements and automatic game scraping. Achievement support varies by emulator and game and requires an internet connection. Steam and Heroic Games Launcher are supported on arm64. Updates can be installed over the air from EmulationStation or manually with an update tar file. There is no formal support; the project is provided as-is through community help channels. Supported devices are listed in the wiki, and adding a device requires contributed work and direct access to it.