It’s been just a month since Apple began allowing retro game emulators on the App Store, and we already have a second hit. The newly released Gamma is a free PS1 emulator packed with features for those eager to revisit the era of blocky polygons. It joins the highly popular Nintendo emulator Delta. Interestingly, despite both apps being named after Greek letters, they are developed by completely separate teams.
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Gamma is the brainchild of developer ZodTTD, a veteran in the space since the early days of the iPhone. While the app is primarily designed for Apple’s smartphone, it also offers a dedicated iPad version. Gamma integrates with Bluetooth controllers and keyboards, providing a variety of input options. It also features customizable on-screen controller skins, although playing old-school games with a touchscreen can be frustrating. Nevertheless, the option is available.
The app supports Google Drive and Dropbox syncing for backing up game files and save states. It even automatically fetches game cover artwork. According to reports, Gamma is based on the same codebase as Delta. As with all emulators, users must supply their own games by converting titles they already own into ROM files to stay within legal boundaries.
There is clearly a huge demand for emulators on the App Store. Delta, the Nintendo emulator, has consistently been a chart-topper since its launch, and Gamma currently ranks at number six, outperforming major streaming apps like Disney+ and Hulu, though it’s still behind TikTok. User reviews are mixed, with some praising the app while others complain about the need for a UI refresh and compatibility issues with third-party controllers like Backbone devices. Updates and fixes are likely on the way.
In the meantime, classic titles such as Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee and Crash Team Racing are waiting to be rediscovered.
