Retro gaming has never been more accessible. With technology advancing rapidly, players can now enjoy classic games from the NES, SNES, PlayStation 1, and Sega Genesis on modern devices. Whether you prefer gaming on a smartphone, PC, or console, several options allow you to relive the golden age of video games legally and with enhanced features.
This guide explores the best ways to play retro games in 2025, covering official re-releases, emulation, cloud gaming, and dedicated retro hardware. If you’re looking for nostalgia with a modern twist, this article is for you.
1. Playing Retro Games on Your Smartphone
Smartphones have become powerful enough to run console-quality games, making them an excellent option for retro gaming. Additionally, mobile devices offer convenience, allowing players to enjoy classic titles anytime and anywhere.
📌 Best Legal Ways to Play Retro Games on Mobile
Several companies have released official classic games for iOS and Android. These provide a legal and hassle-free way to experience retro titles.
- Sega Forever – A collection of free-to-play Sega classics, including Sonic the Hedgehog and Streets of Rage.
- Nintendo Switch Online App – Subscribers gain access to a library of NES and SNES classics.
- Capcom Arcade Stadium – Features legendary titles like Street Fighter II and Ghosts ‘n Goblins.
Another excellent way to play classic games is through cloud gaming services. These platforms offer instant access to a vast library without requiring downloads.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming (via Game Pass) includes Xbox and Xbox 360 retro titles.
- PlayStation Plus Premium allows streaming of PS1, PS2, and PSP classics.
📌 Best Emulators for Android & iOS (Unofficial)
Although official options are the safest, emulation provides a broader selection of classic games. However, it’s important to note that emulation exists in a legal gray area and should only be used with games you own.
- RetroArch – A versatile multi-console emulator.
- Dolphin Emulator – Optimized for GameCube and Wii games.
- PPSSPP – The best emulator for PlayStation Portable (PSP) titles.
For a better experience, consider using a Bluetooth controller like the 8BitDo SN30 Pro. Touchscreen controls work, but physical buttons provide better precision.
2. Playing Retro Games on PC
PC gaming offers the most versatility when it comes to playing classic games. Whether through official re-releases, emulation, or classic PC game stores, options are plentiful.
📌 Best Legal Ways to Play Retro Games on PC
Several platforms specialize in selling remastered and DRM-free versions of classic PC and console games.
- GOG.com (Good Old Games) – Offers legendary titles like Doom, Diablo, and Fallout.
- Steam – Features retro game collections, including Mega Man Legacy Collection and Castlevania Anniversary Collection.
- Xbox Game Pass for PC – Provides access to classic Xbox and PC games.
📌 Best Emulators for PC (Unofficial)
While official re-releases are ideal, emulators expand the possibilities by supporting multiple platforms. Again, use them only with legally owned game files.
- RetroArch – All-in-one emulator for various consoles.
- PCSX2 – The best PlayStation 2 emulator.
- Dolphin – Offers GameCube & Wii emulation with HD upscaling.
- MAME – Focuses on arcade game emulation.
To enhance the experience, use a USB retro controller like the 8BitDo Pro 2 or an original PlayStation/Xbox controller.
3. Playing Retro Games on Modern Consoles
Many modern gaming consoles provide built-in retro game support, either through backward compatibility, digital re-releases, or online services.
📌 PlayStation 5 & PlayStation 4
- PlayStation Plus Premium includes PS1, PS2, and PSP classics.
- Many PS2 and PS3 remasters are available for purchase on the PlayStation Store.
📌 Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One
- Backward Compatibility supports original Xbox and Xbox 360 titles.
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes a selection of classic games.
📌 Nintendo Switch
- Nintendo Switch Online offers NES, SNES, N64, and Game Boy classics.
- Classic game collections such as Super Mario 3D All-Stars and Sega Genesis Classics are available.
For a wider selection, the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack grants access to N64 and Sega Genesis titles.
4. Buying Dedicated Retro Gaming Devices
Some players prefer authentic retro hardware. Fortunately, many devices cater to this demand.
📌 Best Standalone Retro Consoles
- Analogue Pocket – A modern handheld that plays original Game Boy, GBC, and GBA cartridges.
- Analogue Super Nt & Mega Sg – FPGA-based consoles that replicate Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis hardware.
- Evercade EXP – Features a rotating screen and supports officially licensed retro game cartridges.
- Polymega – A modular system that plays NES, SNES, Genesis, and PlayStation 1 discs.
📌 Best Mini Consoles (Preloaded with Games)
- SNES Classic Edition – Preloaded with 21 games, including Super Mario World.
- PlayStation Classic – Comes with 20 games like Final Fantasy VII.
- Sega Genesis Mini 2 – Features over 60 classic titles.
Many mini consoles allow USB expansions, enabling players to add additional games.
5. Are ROMs and Emulation Legal?
The legality of retro gaming depends on how you obtain games.
✅ Legal Ways to Play Retro Games:
- Purchasing official re-releases on digital platforms.
- Using cloud gaming services that offer retro titles.
- Playing on backward-compatible consoles like the Xbox Series X.
❌ What’s Not Legal?
- Downloading ROMs of games you don’t own.
- Sharing copyrighted ROMs.
- Using emulators with pirated game files.
If you own a physical copy of a game, you can legally create a backup ROM using devices like Retrode 2.
Final Thoughts – The Best Way to Play Retro Games in 2025
There are now more ways than ever to experience classic gaming, whether on a smartphone, PC, console, or dedicated retro device. Here’s a quick summary of the best options:
🎮 Best for Casual Players: Nintendo Switch Online or PlayStation Plus Premium.
🖥 Best for Hardcore Retro Gamers: Emulation on PC with RetroArch.
📱 Best for On-the-Go Gaming: Sega Forever or PlayStation Remote Play.
💾 Best for Collectors: Analogue Pocket or Evercade EXP for physical cartridges.
With advancing technology and companies embracing gaming nostalgia, the future of retro gaming looks brighter than ever.
How do you play your favorite retro games? Share your thoughts in the comments!