Lakka is a lightweight Linux distribution that turns a small computer into a retrogaming console. Based on LibreELEC and RetroArch, it uses RetroArch as its graphical interface, with unified emulator configuration and joypad autoconfiguration. Listed features include automatic controller recognition, rewinding, netplay, and shaders. Official builds target Raspberry Pi, Allwinner, iMX6, Amlogic, and 32-bit and 64-bit PC systems. Installation uses USB images specific to the target hardware, and the installation guide covers GNU/Linux, Windows, and MacOS. The PC build is intended for dedicated hardware; virtualization, dual boot, and CD or DVD installation are unsupported. Users must supply their own ROMs, and the documentation also covers BIOS files. Netplay requires the same ROM on both sides, and cores without savestate support cannot use it. The project says development is ongoing, so bugs, missing features, or unsupported hardware may occur. Lakka is free and community-driven; required hardware is not included.
Who it is for
Lakka suits people who want to turn compatible dedicated hardware into a retrogaming console. Users need to provide their own ROMs and choose an image for their target hardware.
What is good
- Includes rewinding, netplay, and shaders.
- Recognizes common USB joypads automatically.
- Supports multiple hardware targets.
- Offers unified emulator configuration.
- The operating system can be updated or downgraded with one download.
What to know first
- Required hardware is not included.
- Users must provide their own ROMs.
- PC builds do not support virtualization or dual boot.
- Hardware compatibility is not guaranteed.
Verdict
Lakka combines a console-style interface with RetroArch-based emulator configuration on supported hardware. Its dedicated-hardware limits, ROM requirement, and ongoing development are important to consider before installing it.
Lakka plans and pricing
All plansCompared on Sega genesis emulators
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- PC; Raspberry Pi; Cubieboard; Banana Pi; Cubox-i; Hummingboard; UDOO; Odroid; WeTek Play