Play Nintendo games on iPhones without sideloading: Here's how
In a significant policy shift announced in April 2024, Apple has updated its App Review Guidelines to permit "retro game console emulator apps" on the App Store. This move marks a departure from previous regulations that placed such emulators in a legal gray area. Despite past restrictions, some game emulators had found their way onto the App Store through hidden features. However, this new rule change officially sanctions their global use.
Understanding the legality of emulators and ROMs
While US law supports the legality of emulators, it's important to understand the legalities surrounding game ROMs (Read-Only Memory). These are digital versions of games, and downloading them without proper rights is illegal. However, users can legally acquire ROMs by using their own game cartridges with a ROM reader, or downloading titles from websites that offer classic games within the public domain, or under a Creative Commons license.
Delta: A top choice for retro gaming on iPhone
Among the multiple emulator apps available, Delta, developed by Riley Testut, is a top choice for iPhone users. The app supports multiple systems like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), and Game Boy versions up to the Nintendo DS. The interface of Delta bears close resemblance to the classic gaming consoles it emulates, enhancing the nostalgic experience for users.
Delta's features and availability
Delta offers extensive system support, adaptive controls, save states as well as cheat codes, cloud sync and ROM upload, local multiplayer support, and AirPlay support. However, currently, only iPhone users in the EU can download Delta from AltStore PAL. This alternative app marketplace was created by Testut after Apple's announcement. to support alternative app marketplaces in iOS 17.4. These marketplaces are not yet available outside of the European Union.
