Side by side
ares vs BlastEm
Both stand on game console emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
ares offers playback controls, display options, and a broad listed range of systems in a free, open-source package. Linux users should note the project’s preference for source compilation or third-party packages.
Visit ares Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted+2
BlastEm combines Sega system emulation with gameplay and debugging tools, including source-level debugging support. Compatibility varies, and Yamaha Copera music and the listed macOS package have specific limitations.
Visit BlastEmThe facts
| ares | BlastEm | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | ares-emu.net | retrodev.com |
| On game console emulators | #1 of 35 | #2 of 35 |
ares: what it does well
- Free and open-source under the ISC license
- Supports save states, rewind, and fast-forward
- Offers pixel shaders and optional color correction
- Virtual Game-Pads adapt configured controls across systems
- macOS binaries support Intel and Apple Silicon
What to know first
- Some listed systems are experimental
- No official Linux binaries are provided
- Android is not supported
- A BIOS is required
BlastEm: what it does well
- Free and open-source.
- Supports a wide list of Sega systems.
- Includes save states and turbo and slow modes.
- Integrated debugger supports conditional breakpoints and scripting.
- GDB remote debugging supports C or C++ projects.
What to know first
- Sega CD and 32X compatibility is not perfect.
- Yamaha Copera games generally lack music.
- Listed macOS download is x86-64 and not notarized.
- Web version is experimental.