Open Source Mac Emulators
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Emulators for Mac
View 778 business solutionsBrowse free open source Emulators and projects for Mac below. Use the toggles on the left to filter open source Emulators by OS, license, language, programming language, and project status.
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NetherSX2 Classic
Continuation of NetherSX2 based on AetherSX2 3668
NetherSX2-classic is a companion and variant of NetherSX2 that targets a specific older base version of the AetherSX2 emulator (based on the 3668 branch), applying similar custom patches to provide a stable and performant PS2 emulation environment on Android devices. The project stitches in anti-tampering modifications, RetroAchievements notification fixes, and controller and GameDB updates while maintaining the legacy behavior of the classic build for compatibility with titles that might perform better on the older codebase. Because this classic branch starts from a slightly different upstream version than NetherSX2-patch, users often choose it for performance reasons on lower-power devices or for games with known regressions in newer builds. As with the patch variant, the repository includes configuration changes, fixes for widescreen and deinterlacing behavior, and updated game and controller support developed by the community. -
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Retrobios
Complete BIOS and firmware packs for RetroArch, Batocera, Recalbox
Retrobios is a low-level systems programming project focused on recreating or emulating BIOS-like functionality for legacy or experimental computing environments. It is designed to provide a minimal firmware layer that initializes hardware and prepares systems to boot, often used for educational purposes or retrocomputing experiments. The project likely explores how early computing systems managed hardware abstraction, memory initialization, and device communication before modern operating systems take control. It emphasizes simplicity and transparency, allowing developers to study and modify core boot processes at a granular level. The architecture is typically close to bare metal, requiring knowledge of assembly language and hardware interfaces. It may also serve as a foundation for building custom operating systems or experimenting with low-level system design. Overall, retrobios functions as a learning and experimentation platform for understanding foundational computing concepts. -
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DeSmuME
DeSmuME is a Nintendo DS emulator
DeSmuME is the most seasoned open source Nintendo DS emulator. It sports tools designed for hackers, speedrunners, youtubers, and casual gamers. Homebrew programs are supported and can even be debugged through GDB. The Windows and OSX versions are both relatively feature rich, and there is a small universe of forks and mods that add even more features for casual gaming. DeSmuME is the origin of RetroArch and OpenEmu Nintendo DS support and is used by several mobile Nintendo DS emulators, with the notable exception of DraStic. DeSmuME's source code is now hosted at https://github.com/TASVideos/desmume/ win32 autobuilds @ https://ci.appveyor.com/project/zeromus/desmume/build/artifacts -
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GNS3
An advanced network simulator to design and configure virtual networks
Build, Design and Test your network in a risk-free virtual environment and access the largest networking community to help. Whether you are studying for your first networking exam or building out a state-wide telecommunications network, GNS3 offers an easy way to design and build networks of any size without the need for hardware. -
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Citra Emulator
A Nintendo 3DS Emulator
Citra is an experimental open-source Nintendo 3DS emulator/debugger written in C++. It is written with portability in mind, with builds actively maintained for Windows, Linux and macOS. Citra emulates a subset of 3DS hardware and therefore is useful for running/debugging homebrew applications, and it is also able to run many commercial games! Some of these do not run at a playable state, but we are working every day to advance the project forward. (Playable here means compatibility of at least "Okay" on our game compatibility list.) Citra is licensed under the GPLv2 (or any later version). Refer to the license.txt file included. Please read the FAQ before getting started with the project. If you want to contribute please take a look at the Contributor's Guide and Developer Information. You should also contact any of the developers in the forum in order to know about the current state of the emulator because the TODO list isn't maintained anymore. -
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VICE
Versatile Commodore Emulator
VICE is an emulator collection which emulates the C64, the C64-DTV, the C128, the VIC20, practically all PET models, the PLUS4 and the CBM-II (aka C610). It runs on Unix, MS-DOS, Win32, OS/2, Acorn RISC OS, BeOS, QNX 6.x, Amiga, GP2X or Mac OS X machines. -
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GoldHEN - PS4 Homebrew Enabler
PS4 Homebrew Enabler
GoldHEN is a homebrew enabler and payload designed for PlayStation 4 systems that enables the execution of unsigned code, modifications, and custom applications by leveraging kernel-level access. It functions as an enhancement layer built on top of exploited firmware environments, allowing users to unlock additional capabilities beyond what is normally permitted by the console. The project provides a wide range of system-level features, including debugging tools, cheat engines, and plugin support, making it popular within the console modification community. It integrates closely with the PS4 operating system to provide seamless functionality while maintaining system stability. GoldHEN also supports features such as FTP access and file system browsing, enabling users to manage internal data and install custom content. Its modular design allows developers to extend its capabilities through plugins and updates. -
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shadPS4
PS4 emulator for Windows,Linux,MacOS
shadPS4 is an early PlayStation 4 emulator for Windows, Linux, and macOS written in C++. If you encounter problems or have doubts, do not hesitate to look at the Quickstart. To verify that a game works, you can look at shadPS4 Game Compatibility. To discuss shadPS4 development or suggest ideas, join the Discord server. To get the latest news, go to our X (twitter) or our website. -
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RetroBIOS
Complete BIOS & firmware packs for RetroArch, Batocera, Recalbox, etc.
RetroBIOS is an open-source project that provides complete BIOS and firmware packs for a wide range of emulators and retro gaming platforms. It includes thousands of verified system files required to run consoles and arcade systems accurately across tools like RetroArch, Batocera, RetroPie, and EmuDeck. Each BIOS file is validated against emulator source code to ensure correctness, compatibility, and proper functionality. The project simplifies setup by offering automated install scripts that detect your platform and download only the required missing files. It also includes detailed documentation, cross-platform mappings, and verification tools to help users manage and audit their BIOS collections. Overall, RetroBIOS serves as a reliable, structured solution for retro gaming enthusiasts who want accurate and hassle-free emulator setups. -
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NetherSX2
Continuation of NetherSX2 based on AetherSX2 4248
NetherSX2-patch is a community-driven continuation and enhancement of the NetherSX2 Android PlayStation 2 emulator, itself a modded fork of the open-source AetherSX2 project originally based on PCSX2. It focuses on providing a more complete and feature-rich experience by applying patches to the upstream emulator build and removing ad-related bloat, fixing notification issues, and exposing many internal settings so users have finer control over performance and compatibility on mobile devices. The project maintains an up-to-date GameDB (game compatibility database), improves controller support, and includes widescreen and no-interlace patches that make many games look and run better on modern screens. Developers also include additional fixes specific to AetherSX2 and NetherSX2 builds, along with tools to resign APKs to avoid Play Protect warnings, which makes installation smoother on Android hardware. -
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VirtualBox
Virtualization software for x86_64 hardware
VirtualBox is a powerful open-source full virtualization software that allows a user to run one or more “guest” operating systems simultaneously inside “virtual machines” on a single physical “host” machine. It supports a wide variety of host platforms (Linux, Windows, macOS, Solaris, etc.) and guest OSes, enabling, for example, running Linux on a Windows PC, running Windows Server on a Linux host, or even legacy OSes in a controlled environment. This flexibility makes VirtualBox ideal for developers, testers, sysadmins, or hobbyists who need different OS environments, want to test software across systems, or need isolation for development, sandboxing, or security experiments. VirtualBox offers both a user-friendly GUI as well as a command-line interface and headless mode, making it useful for desktop usage as well as server or automated environments. -
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Eden Emulator
Free and opensource (FOSS) Switch 1 emulator
Eden Emulator is an experimental open-source emulator designed to replicate Nintendo Switch hardware with a focus on stability and performance improvements. It builds on modern emulation techniques to deliver smoother gameplay and better compatibility with newer titles. The project emphasizes frequent updates that reduce graphical glitches, improve rendering pipelines, and enhance overall system stability. Eden supports multiple platforms, including desktop and mobile environments, expanding accessibility for users. It also introduces features such as overlay systems and improved user interaction layers that mimic real hardware behavior. The development approach prioritizes incremental improvements, ensuring consistent progress in performance and compatibility. Overall, Eden serves as a next-generation emulator aiming to balance accuracy with usability. -
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Gopher64
Highly compatible N64 emulator
Gopher64 is a modern, cross-platform Nintendo 64 emulator focused on high compatibility and performance. It aims to accurately reproduce the behavior of the original hardware while providing enhancements that improve the user experience. The emulator includes features such as graphical upscaling, shader support, and netplay for online multiplayer sessions. It supports homebrew applications alongside commercial titles, making it useful for both players and developers. gopher64 also offers tools like save states and cheat support to extend gameplay flexibility. Built with modern programming practices, it emphasizes maintainability and portability across operating systems. Overall, it is a robust solution for emulating N64 games with enhanced capabilities. -
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The Free Unix Spectrum Emulator (Fuse): an emulator of the 1980s home computer and various clones for Unix, macOS and Windows.
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Bochs is a portable x86 PC emulation software package that emulates enough of the x86 CPU, related AT hardware, and BIOS to run Windows, Linux, *BSD, Minix, and other OS's, all on your workstation.
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Wine
Run Windows applications on Linux, BSD, Solaris, and Mac OS X
Wine is an Open Source implementation of the Windows API on top of X and Unix. Wine provides both a development toolkit for porting Windows sources to Unix and a program loader, allowing many unmodified Windows binaries to run on x86-based Unixes. -
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RPCS3
PlayStation 3 emulator and debugger
RPCS3 is an open-source PlayStation 3 emulator and debugger, allowing users to run PS3 games and software on Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms. It aims to preserve the legacy of the PlayStation 3 by enabling gameplay and software testing beyond the original hardware's lifespan. The project has made significant progress in compatibility and performance, supporting a wide range of PS3 titles. -
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mGBA
mGBA Game Boy Advance Emulator
mGBA is a high-performance, open-source emulator designed to accurately replicate the behavior of the Game Boy Advance hardware while maintaining fast execution across a wide range of devices. The project was created with the goal of improving both accuracy and speed compared to earlier emulators, achieving a balance that allows games to run reliably even on lower-end systems. It supports not only Game Boy Advance titles but also Game Boy and Game Boy Color games, making it a versatile multi-generation emulator. The architecture is written in C and focuses on precise hardware emulation, including CPU timing, graphics rendering, and audio output, which are essential for compatibility with a wide range of games. It includes multiple frontends such as Qt for a full graphical interface and SDL for lightweight usage, giving users flexibility depending on their environment. -
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Ruffle
A Flash Player emulator written in Rust
Ruffle is an open-source emulator for Adobe Flash Player, written primarily in Rust, and targeted at both desktop applications and web browsers via WebAssembly. Its goal is to enable legacy Flash content—animations, games, interactive media—to continue running safely and reliably after official Flash support was discontinued. On the web side, Ruffle is embedded into pages or installed as a browser extension; in the desktop version, it can open .swf files directly or embed them in applications. Because it’s built with memory safety in mind, Ruffle helps avoid many of the security vulnerabilities that plagued classic Flash (buffer overflows, use-after-free, etc.). It strives to support multiple versions of ActionScript (1, 2 and parts of 3) and a wide swath of the Flash API so as much content as possible works unchanged. -
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SkyEmu
Game Boy Advance, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and DS Emulator
SkyEmu is a modern, multi-system handheld emulator that supports Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, and experimental Nintendo DS emulation, with a strong focus on balancing accuracy, performance, and usability. It is designed as a low-level emulator that accurately reproduces hardware behavior while still offering a smooth and accessible user experience across a wide range of platforms. The emulator is highly portable, supporting desktop operating systems, mobile devices, and even web browsers through WebAssembly builds. SkyEmu includes advanced visual enhancements such as upscaling shaders, color correction, and screen effects that mimic original hardware displays. It also features extensive debugging tools, making it useful not only for players but also for developers working on homebrew or reverse engineering. With features like save states, rewind, fast-forward, and controller support, it offers a full-featured modern emulation experience. -
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This is Java 2 Micro Edition (J2ME) CLDC/MIDP Emulator. Allows demonstrate MIDlet based applications in web browser applet, also can be run as standalone java application.
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Windows 95 in Electron
Windows 95 in Electron. Runs on macOS, Linux, and Windows
windows95 in Electron is a quirky, nostalgia-driven project that ports a complete emulation of Microsoft Windows 95 into a desktop application that runs on modern operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux. It essentially wraps an emulator — preconfigured to boot Windows 95 — inside a user-friendly app built with web technologies so developers and hobbyists can explore the look and feel of that classic OS without needing legacy hardware or complicated setup. Users can interact with familiar UI elements like the Start menu, File Explorer, and retro applications in a sandboxed environment that evokes early personal computing. Beyond being a playful trip down memory lane, the project demonstrates how emulation can be packaged using modern frameworks & how legacy operating systems can be encapsulated as distributable desktop experiences. It’s become an example of how software preservation and creative programming can intersect, inspiring others to bring historic systems to life. -
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Citron Neo
Research software designed to orchestrate virtual environments
Citron Neo is an advanced emulator project focused on replicating complex system environments with high performance and flexibility. It is designed to emulate modern console behavior while integrating improvements in CPU emulation, GPU rendering, and memory management. The project incorporates optimizations such as dynamic recompilation and Vulkan-based rendering to enhance performance across supported platforms. It also includes continuous updates that improve compatibility with games and system firmware, reflecting an active development cycle. Citron aims to provide a refined user experience through UI enhancements, faster loading times, and better resource handling. It supports multiple operating systems, including desktop and mobile environments, making it accessible across different devices. Overall, it represents a modern approach to emulation with a focus on speed, compatibility, and extensibility. -
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MAME
A multi-purpose emulation framework
On December 24th, 1996, Nicola Salmoria began working on his single hardware emulators, which he merged into one program during January 1997. He named the accomplishment by the name of Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator, or MAME for short. -
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BigQuery Emulator
BigQuery emulator server implemented in Go
BigQuery Emulator is an open-source server implementation that replicates the behavior of Google Cloud’s BigQuery service locally, enabling developers to test and develop data workflows without connecting to the real cloud environment. Written in Go, it can run as a standalone binary, Docker container, or embedded library within test environments, making it highly flexible for different workflows. The emulator supports a large portion of the BigQuery API surface, including dataset management, query execution, and data ingestion, allowing applications to interact with it as if it were the real service. It uses SQLite as its underlying storage engine, with options for in-memory or persistent file-based databases depending on the use case. The system also implements many features of Google Standard SQL, including hundreds of functions and advanced query constructs, enabling realistic query testing.
