If you have an old computer that’s getting dusty, you can turn it into a PlayStation like retrogaming console with the Lakka Linux distribution.

You probably already know that there are Linux distributions specifically designed to revive older computers. But did you know that a Linux distro is created for the sole purpose of turning your old computer into a retro gaming console?

Discover Lakka, a lightweight Linux distribution that will turn your old or low-end computer (like Raspberry Pi) into a complete retrogaming console,

When I say console retrogaming, I take the console part seriously. If you have used a PlayStation before of Xbox, you know what a typical console interface looks like.

Lakka provides a similar interface and a similar experience. I will talk about “the experience” later. Take a look at the interface first.

Lakka: Linux distributions for retrogaming

Lakka is the official Linux distribution of RetroArch and the Libretro ecosystem.

RetroArch is an interface for retro game emulators and game engines. The interface you saw in the video above is nothing but RetroArch. If you just want to play retro games, you can simply install RetroArch in your current Linux distribution.

Lakka provides the Libretro kernel with RetroArch. So you get a preconfigured operating system that you can install or plug into the USB over the air and start playing games.

Lakka is lightweight and you can install it on most older systems or single board computers like Raspberry Pi.

It supports a large number of emulators. You just need to download the ROMs to your system and Lakka will play the games from these ROMs. You can find the list of emulators and supported hardware here.

It allows you to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles thanks to its sleek graphical interface. The settings are also unified so that the configuration is done once and for all.

Let me summarize the main features of Lakka:

• PlayStation-like interface with RetroArch
• Support for a number of retro gaming emulators
• Supports up to 5 players playing on the same system
• Save states allow you to save your progress at any time in the game
• You can enhance the look of your old games with various graphics filters
• You can join multiplayer games on the network
• Out-of-the-box support for a number of joypads like XBOX360, Dualshock 3 and 8bitdo
• Unlike trophies and badges by logging into RetroAchievements

Get Lakka

Before continuing to install Lakka, you should know that it is still under development, so expect a few bugs here and there.

Keep in mind that Lakka only supports MBR partitioning. So if not read your hard drive during installation, it could be a reason.

The FAQ section of the project answers common doubts, so please refer to it for any further questions.

Do you like playing retro games? What emulators do you use? Have you used Lakka before? Share your views with us in the comments section.