Apps I Recommend to Play Emulated Games on Android

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For the past few years, I've been playing plenty of games on my Samsung Galaxy, from N64 and GameCube to PS2 and Game Boy Advance. I remember being pleasantly surprised to be able to play all my favorite childhood games right on my cellphone, anytime and anywhere I wanted.

I would like to recommend these apps to you so you can play on your mobile devices as well. From what I've noticed, the apps I will mention shortly are only available on Android devices. iPhone users have a different selection of apps, so if you are an Apple user, you will have to look elsewhere. Let's get started! ( I do not provide or link to game ROMs. Please use your own legal backup copies).

The first app I installed is called "Fullroid X." These are the gaming consoles it supports:

• NES & SNES

• Nintendo 64

• PlayStation 1

• Gameboy

• Gameboy Advanced

• Nintendo DS & Nintendo 3DS

There are two versions of this app: Fullroid X and Fullroid X Pro, but when the results appear, they go by a different name: "One/Pro Emulator for Game Consoles." It's still the same app you need, so type in Fullroid and select one of the apps. From what I've heard from other users, there isn't a clear difference between the two apps aside from the fact that the standard one is free while the pro version costs $2.20. They both provide the same features overall; The pro version is just to help support the app and developers. The decision is yours on which to install, though I imagine most will choose the free version.

Once installed, follow the setup instructions the app provides and play your digital backups in the app.

The next app is the Dolphin Emulator. Dolphin has been around for many years and is one of the most popular emulators out there. This app supports GameCube and Wii games. Search for Dolphin on the Google Play Store and install it. The app will provide you with detailed instructions on how to set it up for use.

The final app that I recommend is NetherSX2. This app allows you to play PlayStation 2 games. However, I recommend installing it directly from the official website, as the app version is riddled with ads, making it highly cumbersome to use. You can check out the official site to download the app and its updates directly from the NetherSX2 GitHub Releases page.

Now, the next step is the controllers you will need to play your games on your phone. You will need controllers with Bluetooth functionality. I always use my Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and PlayStation 4 Controller because they support Bluetooth, so if you own either, you're good to go! If you don't own either, here are some great substitutes I found that are affordable:

VOYEE Wireless Switch Controller:

If you don't own an official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, a budget wireless alternative like the VOYEE Wireless Switch Controller is a great pick for around $18-$20. It pairs over Bluetooth to Android phones, features programmable back buttons, and offers solid battery life for retro 3D games.

 SZYUYU Wireless PS4 Controller:

If you love the feel of a DualShock 4 but don't want to spend full price on an official Sony pad, a budget alternative like the SZYUYU Wireless PS4 Controller is a great option. It offers the same familiar layout, Bluetooth compatibility for Android phones, motion controls, and a solid battery life for $20.

To help you get a full picture of what the apps will look like after you upload your games, I'm attaching screenshots of my library from Fullroid, Dolphin, and Nether.

Learning how to set up emulators on my phone has been one of the best ways to replay classic games I grew up with. Give these apps a try, set up your favorite titles, and let me know in the comments below what games you plan on playing!