Systems & Compatibility

Universal support through the power of libretro

Universal Support

TruchiEmu is built on the libretro API, which means it supports a wide range of retro gaming systems. Six systems — NES, SNES, N64, DOS, ScummVM, and Saturn — have dedicated runners with system-specific optimizations. Most other libretro cores work with the default runner, though some may require manual BIOS or configuration setup.

The Rule of Thumb: If a libretro core exists for a gaming system, TruchiEmu can likely run it. This includes everything from the earliest 8-bit consoles to more complex 3D systems and arcade machines. Not all cores are equally compatible — systems with dedicated runners generally offer the best experience.

Core Management

Cores are the emulation engines that do the heavy lifting. TruchiEmu makes it easy to manage these engines without leaving the app.

The Core Downloader

You don't need to hunt for core files online. Use the integrated Core Downloader to:

  • Discover: Browse a comprehensive list of available cores. After download, TruchiEmu automatically maps each core to its compatible systems.
  • Install: One-click installation that handles placement and configuration automatically.
  • Update: Keep your emulation engines up to date with the latest community improvements.

Choosing the Right Core

Some systems have multiple cores available, ranging from cycle-accurate emulators prioritizing fidelity to faster cores optimized for performance. You can switch between them in the game details or system settings to find the best fit for your hardware and preferences:

Accuracy Cores

Prioritize cycle-accurate emulation. Best for preservation and high-end Macs.

Performance Cores

Prioritize speed and efficiency. Best for older hardware or extremely demanding titles.

Custom Core Import

You can also install a core from a local .zip or .dylib file. This path supports cores with no buildbot entry, such as suyu_libretro for Switch. Open the Core Downloader, choose Import, select the file, and assign system IDs. TruchiEmu keeps your custom mapping on update.

Switch notes: Switch needs its prod.keys file. Place it under ~/Library/Application Support/TruchiEmu/System/suyu/keys/prod.keys. Base games group with updates and DLC after scan.

MAME & Arcade

Use .zip files for arcade ROMs. TruchiEmu scans the folder, checks CRC32 hashes against DAT data, and hides non-game BIOS and device files from the library.

  • Format: Keep arcade sets as .zip. Do not unzip them.
  • Identification: CRC32 plus rejection tracking filters out non-game entries.
  • BIOS: Some arcade games need extra BIOS files. Provide your own if the game does not boot.

Core Options

Each core exposes video, audio, and system options. Set them in Settings, per system, or per game. Higher levels override lower levels:

  1. Core default (from the core itself)
  2. App default
  3. App system default
  4. System override (your choice for one system)
  5. Game override (your choice for one game)

Overrides are stored as .cfg files in TruchiEmu/CoreOptions/. Use labels shown in Settings. The core compares internal values, so keep names exact.

BIOS & System Files

Many consoles require a BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) file to boot. TruchiEmu removes the headache of manual BIOS searching.

Pre-Bundled BIOS

TruchiEmu comes pre-packaged with BIOS and system files for several consoles, ensuring they work right after installation:

  • Sega Saturn — sega_101.bin and mpr-17933.bin
  • Dreamcast — dc_boot.bin, dc_flash.bin, and VMU files
  • Atari Jaguar — Jaguar and Jaguar CD BIOS
  • PSP — PPSSPP system assets
  • GameCube/Wii — Dolphin system files (downloaded automatically on first use)

PlayStation does not require a BIOS file — the Mednafen PSX (Beetle PSX) core is configured to skip the BIOS boot sequence. For systems like 3DO and certain MAME arcade games that require BIOS files not included with TruchiEmu, you will need to provide your own.

Custom BIOS

If you have specific regional BIOS files or need to update a system file, you can place them in ~/Library/Application Support/TruchiEmu/System/. TruchiEmu will prioritize your custom files over the bundled versions.

Optimization Tips

To get the most out of your emulation experience, consider these adjustments:

  • Core Overrides: Set a specific core for a specific game if the default doesn't perform well.
  • BIOS Verification: If a game fails to boot, ensure your system directory is correctly mapped in Settings.
  • Hardware Acceleration: TruchiEmu uses Metal for hardware-accelerated rendering on all Macs. Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date for the best performance on Apple Silicon.