How to use the command 'retroarch' (with examples)

RetroArch is a versatile frontend that allows users to run emulators, game engines, and media players. It serves as the reference implementation of the libretro API, providing a unified interface for various retro gaming software.

Use case 1: Start in the menu mode

Code:

retroarch

Motivation: The command “retroarch” without any additional arguments launches RetroArch in menu mode. This allows users to navigate through the available options and select the emulator or game they want to run.

Explanation: The command “retroarch” starts the RetroArch frontend application.

Example output:

RetroArch [INFO] :: RetroArch v1.9.8
...
(RetroArch Menu)

Use case 2: Start in full screen mode

Code:

retroarch --fullscreen

Motivation: Starting RetroArch in full screen mode provides an immersive gaming experience without any distractions, maximizing the use of the screen space.

Explanation: The argument --fullscreen tells RetroArch to launch in full screen mode, utilizing the entire display area.

Example output:

RetroArch [INFO] :: RetroArch v1.9.8
...
RetroArch [INFO] :: Entered fullscreen successfully.

Use case 3: List all compiled features

Code:

retroarch --features

Motivation: Knowing the compiled features of RetroArch can help users understand the capabilities of the software and adjust their configurations accordingly.

Explanation: The argument --features instructs RetroArch to display a list of all compiled features, providing insights into the available functionalities.

Example output:

Features:
  frontend/musicplayer/misc (needed for netplay): yes
  fcntl-flock (Unix file locking): yes
  zlib (compressed savestates): yes
  ...

Use case 4: Set the path of a configuration file

Code:

retroarch --config=path/to/config_file

Motivation: Configuring RetroArch with specific settings and options can enhance the gaming experience. Using a custom configuration file allows users to apply predefined preferences.

Explanation: The argument --config=path/to/config_file specifies the path of the configuration file to be used by RetroArch.

Example output: (No output is generated by this particular command)

Use case 5: Display help

Code:

retroarch --help

Motivation: When first starting out with RetroArch or for reference purposes, displaying the command’s help information can provide guidance on its usage and available options.

Explanation: The argument --help triggers RetroArch to display a help message containing usage instructions and explanations of the available command-line arguments.

Example output:

RetroArch [INFO] :: RetroArch v1.9.8
...
Usage: retroarch [options] [path/to/content]
...

Use case 6: Display version

Code:

retroarch --version

Motivation: To verify the installed version of RetroArch or provide necessary version information when seeking support or assistance, displaying the version can be helpful.

Explanation: The argument --version makes RetroArch output the version information.

Example output:

RetroArch [INFO] :: RetroArch v1.9.8

Conclusion

The command “retroarch” provides a comprehensive set of options to facilitate the usage and customization of RetroArch. By understanding these use cases, users can effectively launch RetroArch, configure it, and utilize its various features to enjoy retro gaming on their preferred platforms.