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RetroArch icon

RetroArch


Libretro
1.22.2_GIT
  • 8.2
    25 Reviews
  • Aug 26, 2026
    Update date
  • 0/42
    Security
  • Everyone
  • Android 4.1+
    Android OS

About RetroArch

Molly Reagan avatar
Reviewed byMolly ReaganContent Editor

RetroArch is an Android frontend app that organizes and launches compatible emulators, engines, and multimedia programs through Libretro cores.

RetroArch helps players who keep classic game files across different systems and want to access them from one interface. Instead of opening separate emulator apps, you can build a single library and select compatible cores when needed. The app does not provide games itself, so you need your own supported content. For users looking to download RetroArch, it offers a console style way to browse and manage a personal collection.


RetroArch features

Libretro cores in one app

RetroArch uses Libretro cores to run compatible emulators, game engines, and other programs. You can choose a core for the type of content you want to open, rather than using a separate app for each system. This setup also lets you keep your settings and controls in a familiar interface.

Library scanning and playlists

You can scan folders containing supported game files to create playlists grouped by system. RetroArch can add thumbnails and database details when matching information is available. It also keeps recently played content nearby, which can make a large collection easier to browse on a phone.

Controls and shared settings

RetroArch lets you adjust input, audio, video, cheats, and other options from its settings menus. You can apply settings across several cores or save different settings for an individual core. Compatible controllers can be configured for use alongside the touchscreen controls.

Screen filters and display profiles

You can change how older games look by using shaders, CRT style filters, scanlines, and color adjustments. RetroArch can save these choices as profiles, so you do not need to set them again for every session. These options are useful when a game looks different from its original display.

In game tools and online sessions

During play, the Quick Menu gives you access to save states, screenshots, cheats, and core specific options. RetroArch also supports compatible Netplay sessions where you can host, join, or spectate. Eligible content may support RetroAchievements, while some setups can also use recording, streaming, runahead, or AI text translation tools.


What to know about RetroArch

RetroArch is a frontend, not a game provider. Before installing a RetroArch APK, make sure you have compatible game files, original discs or CDs where supported, and the core needed to run them. The app can organize and launch this content, but it does not include a built in collection of commercial games.

The available RetroArch edition can affect how you manage cores. RetroArch Plus supports up to 127 cores, while the official website APK includes the Core Downloader for obtaining supported cores inside the app. Check the edition details before choosing a file, especially if you plan to use several different systems.


Using RetroArch on Android

RetroArch takes a little setup because you first need to add cores and point the app to your own content folders. Once the library is ready, the interface works as a central launcher for compatible games and programs. If you need the RetroArch latest version, review the edition information before installing it.

  1. Open RetroArch and enter the main menu, then add or select a compatible Libretro core for the content you plan to use.

  2. Set the folder where your game files are stored, then use the scan option to let RetroArch create system playlists when supported files are found.

  3. Open a playlist, choose a title, and select the appropriate core if RetroArch asks you to do so.

  4. After the game starts, open the Quick Menu to create a save state, change controls, adjust video options, or use available cheats.

  5. When you finish, return to the library to launch another title, review recently played items, or change settings for a specific core.


Get started with RetroArch

RetroArch brings compatible emulators and personal game libraries into one Android interface with shared settings and playlists. You can download RetroArch when you want to manage supported classic game content from a single app.

Official information is available here:

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Additional Game Information

Latest Version

1.22.2_GIT

Uploaded by

Libretro

Requires Android

Android 4.1+

Available on

Content Rating

Everyone

Security Report

What's New in the Latest Version 1.22.2_GIT

Last updated on Aug 26, 2026

This release includes minor bug fixes and general improvements. Update to the latest version for the best experience.

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0/42
Scan Result: Secure
No security vendors flagged this file as malicious
No Virus
No Spyware
No Malware
No Virus
No Spyware
No Malware
Scan Date:Jan 30, 2026
Package Name:com.retroarch
SHA-256:605e152eeb5dcef946ac3f3b112814cb59964d0da788ee1eeb5ab26fd0205894
SHA-1:5a15dedc43600efdef467540a13ab3c26af73ddb
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View Security Report

RetroArch Screenshots

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RetroArch Articles

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