- There are dedicated operating systems like Lakka and RetroPie that transform old hardware into gaming stations.
- For those who prefer to keep Windows, RetroBat allows you to manage emulation from an external disk in a portable way.
- The versatility of LibRetro and RetroArch makes it easy to access catalogs ranging from Atari to PlayStation 2.
You probably have a laptop lying around that's seen better days. The processor might still be usable and there's plenty of memory, but the graphics card is outdated and no longer suitable for modern tasks. Instead of letting it gather dust or throwing it away, repurposing your old PCs into classic gaming machines is a fantastic way to make use of that hardware.
Ideally, you'd want a setup that lets you connect the device to your TV via HDMI and manage everything with a remote , avoiding the hassle of using a keyboard or navigating complicated menus via SSH. If you're looking for a seamless experience where you can turn on the device and immediately start playing PSX or PS2 games, there are several options depending on how much you want to complicate things with the software.
Linux-based options for a total transformation
If you don't mind wiping your current operating system to gain performance and simplicity, there are lightweight operating systems designed specifically for reviving old PCs. One of the strongest options is the LibRetro ecosystem, whose flagship project is RetroArch, an open-source software suite that includes emulators for almost any imaginable console, from the earliest Atari systems to more powerful ones like the PlayStation.
To implement this, you can opt for RetroPie. This tool is very comprehensive because it combines the EmulationStation game hub with the RetroArch cores, making browsing your game library a breeze. However, keep in mind that on a PC the process is somewhat more involved than on a Raspberry Pi, since you first need to install Ubuntu as a base and then install RetroPie on top of it, which can be a bit tedious if you're not familiar with the Linux environment.
If you're looking for something more straightforward and uncomplicated, Lakka is the ideal alternative. It's an extremely lightweight Linux distribution that transforms your PC into a pure console. Its interface is very reminiscent of the PlayStation's XMB menu , organizing ROMs by console category in a highly intuitive way. The big advantage is that, being based on the Linux kernel, it's compatible with almost any hardware , although its drawback is that the system is very closed: it's only for gaming, and you won't be able to use your laptop for anything else.
The portable alternative for Windows users
Not everyone wants to format their computer or install Linux. If you prefer to continue using Windows or want your game collection to be portable, RetroBat is the smartest solution. This program lets you emulate consoles like NeoGeo, MegaDrive, or PS2 , running everything from an external hard drive or an old SSD, thus avoiding filling up your laptop's internal storage.
To get started, simply download the "External" version from its official website and run the installer as administrator on the external drive. Once inside the RetroBat interface, you can automatically install the emulators you need and place your ROMs in the corresponding folders. It's a fantastic option because it allows you to connect any controller and configure it to your liking, making an old PC function exactly like a modern home console.
Whether you opt for the absolute lightness of Lakka, the configurable power of RetroPie on Ubuntu, or the portable convenience of RetroBat on Windows, rescuing an old computer is the best way to combat nostalgia. Depending on whether you're looking for a system dedicated exclusively to gaming or a flexible solution on an external hard drive, you can enjoy vast catalogs of classic consoles on your television without spending a penny on new hardware.
