Side by side
crater vs OpenEmu
Both stand on game gear emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMac
Crater pairs Game Gear emulation with Z80 assembly tools, but its documented gaps include audio, save states, and some graphics features. It may suit users willing to build it and work within those limitations.
Visit crater
Free plan Open source Mac
OpenEmu offers a library-focused way to manage game backups and use multiple emulation systems on a Mac. Check the Intel-only release detail and BIOS requirement before choosing it.
Visit OpenEmuThe facts
| crater | OpenEmu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | openemu.org |
| On game gear emulators | #9 of 31 | #5 of 31 |
crater: what it does well
- Free and distributed under the MIT License
- Includes a complete Z80 assembler
- Supports cartridge RAM saves for compatible games
- Most games are described as playable
What to know first
- No audio support
- Save states are not supported
- Disassembler cannot distinguish code from data
- Building requires a C11 compiler and SDL 2
OpenEmu: what it does well
- Free and open-source software.
- Organizes backups with box art and collections.
- Lists support for 31 systems.
- Recognized HID controllers can map automatically.
- Save states, cheats, and CD audio are supported.
What to know first
- Available for macOS only.
- BIOS files are required.
- Latest listed binaries are Intel-only.
- Online netplay is not supported.
Alternatives to crater Alternatives to OpenEmu The whole list