A Beginner's Guide to Emulation (Without the Jargon)

New here? Welcome. The basics:

Emulator = software that mimics old hardware ROM = a copy of a game BIOS = system files some emulators need (PS1, PS2, etc.) Core = an emulator engine inside RetroArch Save state = instant save anywhere, separate from in-game saves

You'll need an emulator matched to the system you want to play. Start with something forgiving like SNES or GBA—they run on almost anything.