Apple Opens Doors to Retro Game Emulators on App Store

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• Apple now allows retro game console emulators on the App Store globally
• Emulators must comply with applicable laws, likely banning apps with pirated titles
• The change could bring popular Android retro console emulators to iOS
• Apple clarified rules for mini-games/apps in super apps, requiring HTML5
• The move appears to be a response to antitrust pressure in the US and EU

In a surprising move, Apple is now allowing retro game emulators on its App Store. The updated app review and submission policies now permit these nostalgic gaming apps, potentially bringing a massive archive of classic retro game titles to iPhone and iPad users around the world.

Apple Embraces Retro Gaming with App Store Policy Update

For years, retro gaming fans have been clamoring for the ability to relive their favorite console experiences on their iPhones. Until now, Apple’s strict policies have kept emulators at bay, leaving users to resort to jailbreaking or other workarounds.

In section 4.7, the updated guidelines state that “retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games,” signaling a significant shift in Apple’s stance. However, there’s a catch—these emulators must comply with all applicable laws, likely prohibiting apps that provide pirated titles.

4.7 Mini apps, mini games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators

Apps may offer certain software that is not embedded in the binary, specifically HTML5 mini apps and mini games, streaming games, chatbots, and plug-ins. Additionally, retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games. You are responsible for all such software offered in your app, including ensuring that such software complies with these Guidelines and all applicable laws. Software that does not comply with one or more guidelines will lead to the rejection of your app. You must also ensure that the software adheres to the additional rules that follow in 4.7.1 and 4.7.5. These additional rules are important to preserve the experience that App Store customers expect, and to help ensure user safety.

Apple App Review Guidelines

Leveling the Playing Field

This policy change could pave the way for popular Android retro console emulators to make their way to iOS. With the floodgates open, iPhone users may soon have access to a huge trove of classic games from consoles like the NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis. Beyond arcade staples, like Pac-Man and OutRun, original versions of classic game like Tetris could be coming to iOS.

Apple also clarified its rules regarding mini-games and mini-apps within super apps like WeChat. Moving forward, these must use HTML5 rather than native apps and games.

Responding to Antitrust Pressure

Apple’s emulator allowance seems to be a response to mounting antitrust pressure in both the United States and European Union. The company has faced scrutiny over its App Store policies, with critics arguing that they stifle competition and innovation.

By loosening restrictions on emulators, Apple may be attempting to preempt further criticism in this area. The change applies globally, not just in the EU where the company has faced particularly intense regulatory pressure.

The Future of Retro Game Emulators on iPhone

While the prospect of playing classic console games on an iPhone is exciting, it remains to be seen how this will play out in practice. The updated policies suggest that open emulators capable of running ROMs from any source, as seen on Android, may not be permitted.

Instead, we may see IP owners like Sega or Nintendo release their own official emulators, offering approved ROMs for download through in-app purchases or subscriptions. This would give these companies control over which titles are available and ensure they’re compensated for their intellectual property.

Regardless of the specifics, this policy update marks an exciting new chapter for retro gaming on iOS. As developers navigate the new guidelines and bring their emulators to the App Store, iPhone users can look forward to a nostalgic trip down memory lane—one that’s been a long time coming.

Retro gaming arrives on iPhone! Apple's new App Store policy welcomes classic console emulators, potentially bringing a treasure trove of nostalgic titles to iOS. #RetroGaming #iOSEmulators #AppStore Share on X