How to Sideload Emulators on iOS

Want to play retro games on your iPhone or iPad? Emulators like RetroArch, Delta, and PPSSPP aren't available on the App Store, but you can sideload them using SideStore and iLoader. Here's how to get started.

Why Sideload Emulators?

Apple doesn't allow emulators on the App Store, but sideloading lets you install them legally for personal use. Popular emulators include:

• Delta — Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, SNES, NES emulator
• RetroArch — Multi-system emulator supporting dozens of consoles
• PPSSPP — PlayStation Portable (PSP) emulator
• Provenance — Multi-console emulator for various systems
• Eclipse — Game Boy and Game Boy Color emulator

Prerequisites

• iPhone or iPad on a supported iOS version
• Free Apple Developer account
• iLoader installed on your computer
• USB cable to connect your device
• On iOS 16+, Developer Mode enabled

Step 1: Install SideStore

If you haven't already installed SideStore:

1. Connect your device to your computer via USB
2. Open iLoader and sign in with your Apple ID
3. Select your device and choose Install SideStore
4. Follow the on-screen instructions
5. SideStore will appear on your home screen when done

See our How to Install IPA on iPhone guide for detailed steps.

Step 2: Find Emulator IPA Files

You'll need the IPA file for your chosen emulator. Popular sources include:

• GitHub Releases — Official releases from emulator developers
• SideStore Sources — Built-in app sources in SideStore
• Developer Websites — Official project pages

Important: Only download IPAs from trusted sources. Official GitHub repositories are the safest option.

Step 3: Install Emulator via SideStore

The easiest method is using SideStore's built-in sources:

1. Open SideStore on your device
2. Go to Sources or Browse
3. Find your emulator (e.g., Delta, RetroArch)
4. Tap Install or Get
5. Wait for installation to complete
6. The emulator will appear on your home screen

Step 4: Install Emulator via iLoader (Manual IPA)

If you have an IPA file downloaded:

1. Connect your device to your computer
2. Open iLoader
3. Select Install IPA or Sideload IPA
4. Choose the emulator IPA file
5. Wait for installation
6. Trust the developer in Settings → General → VPN & Device Management

Step 5: Add ROM Files

After installing the emulator:

1. Open the emulator app
2. Use the emulator's file browser or import feature
3. Add ROM files via Files app, cloud storage, or AirDrop
4. Some emulators support importing from Files app directly

Legal Note: Only use ROM files you own legally. Downloading ROMs for games you don't own may violate copyright laws.

Popular Emulators to Try

Troubleshooting

• Emulator won't open — Make sure you trusted the developer in Settings → VPN & Device Management
• ROMs not loading — Check file format compatibility. Some emulators only support specific ROM formats.
• Performance issues — Close other apps, ensure your device isn't overheating, and check emulator settings for performance options.
• App expired — Refresh the emulator using SideStore. See our How to Refresh SideStore Apps guide.

Tips for Best Experience

• Use a controller — Many emulators support Bluetooth controllers for better gameplay
• Save states — Take advantage of save states to pause games anytime
• Keep apps refreshed — Set a reminder to refresh emulators weekly with SideStore
• Organize ROMs — Use folders in the Files app to keep ROMs organized

Legal Considerations

Emulators themselves are legal, but ROM files are subject to copyright:

• You can legally use ROMs for games you physically own
• Creating backups of your own games is generally legal
• Downloading ROMs for games you don't own may violate copyright
• Check your local laws regarding game backups and emulation