The new Gamma emulator lets you play classic PlayStation titles on your iPhone or iPad with touch controls, Bluetooth controllers and more.
Like the Delta emulator, Gamma is a fully-featured retro gaming console focused on the original Sony PlayStation, not subsequent models. Unlike other emulators, Gamma doesn’t require BIOS files to run your favorite games, like Crash Bandicoot.
Of course, you’ll need to bring your own game ROMs. The app will then automatically download the appropriate cover artwork. And like Delta, Gamma integrates with a third-party syncing service to automatically remember game progress.
Gamma brings PlayStation 1 gaming to your iPhone
Gamma supports Bluetooth controllers, including MFi-certified ones, but you can pair a PlayStation, Microsoft or Nintendo controller with your iPhone and iPad, too. The app also accepts input from the connected keyboard, if any.
Don’t have a controller? Tough luck, but we‘ve rounded up some of the best Bluetooth controllers that work on iPhones and iPads.
However, a physical controller is not required for gameplay as Gamma provides virtual sticks in portrait and landscape orientation. To complete your experience, you can apply controller skins or even design your own ones.
Gamma takes full advantage of the iPad’s bigger screen, but more pixels won’t make retro classics look better. Some smoothing and other tricks make those low-resolution titles look better on high-resolution screens, but this has limits.
Issues with some game ROMs will be fixed
Specific titles like Metal Gear Solid may have issues, as Psycho Mantis cannot read your virtual memory card. Some folks have complained about certain game ROMs refusing to run. Others are having issues like game ROMs not running smoothly.
According to Gamma’s developer, Benjamin Stark, aka ZodTTD, these bugs will be fixed in future updates. If you’re a retro gaming fan or owned the original PlayStation, Gamma will be a true blast from the past.
You can download Gamme for free on the App Store. Don’t worry; there are no in-app purchases to spoil the fun! We’ve outlined the process of loading game ROMs in the Delta emulator, so consult this article, as the main steps are the same.
Apple now allows retro gaming emulators
It’s a good time for retro gaming fans because Apple recently changed its rules to permit emulators of retro gaming consoles into its App Store.
Among the emulator apps coming soon is Provenance. It’s been available on jailbroken iPhones, but should soon expand to the App Store. Provenance is a multi-emulator app that lets you play PlayStation, Nintendo, Sega and Atari games.. An iPhone and iPad version is currently being tested, with an Apple TV version to follow.