About video game platforms
Video game platforms encompass a wide range of software and systems designed to facilitate the playing, purchasing, and managing of video games. Each platform provides unique features tailored to different gaming experiences and preferences.
Steam is one of the most prominent digital distribution platforms for PC gaming, created by Valve Corporation. It serves as a hub for purchasing, downloading, and launching games, while also offering social networking features. Steams robust library includes thousands of titles ranging from indie gems to blockbuster hits. It also provides various community features, including forums, user reviews, and achievements. Steams annual sales events are particularly popular, offering significant discounts that help expand players game libraries at reduced costs.
PCSX2, on the other hand, is an emulator for the PlayStation 2 console, allowing users to play PS2 games on their computers. Emulators like PCSX2 are crucial for preserving older games that might otherwise be unplayable as technology evolves. The emulator is an open-source project, continually updated by a community of developers. By simulating the hardware of the original console, PCSX2 makes it possible to enjoy classic titles with improved graphics and performance, offering options such as upscaling and enhanced textures that surpass the original hardwares capabilities.
Both Steam and PCSX2 illustrate the diverse landscape of video game platforms. Steam enhances the experience of contemporary gaming with a comprehensive ecosystem of games and community features, while PCSX2 ensures that the rich library of older games remains accessible to new generations of players. These platforms not only broaden the availability of games but also enrich the overall gaming experience through their respective strengths.
Best video game platforms for OSMC (formerly Raspbmc)
| Platform | Description Features | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| PCSX2 | PCSX2 is a PlayStation 2 emulator for Windows and Linux, which has been ported to various other platforms including OSMC. It offers a high compatibility rate with various PS2 games, various configuration options, and plugin support for graphics, sounds, and input devices. With rapidly growing improvements and an active community, PCSX2 is a credible option for gaming on OSMC. | PCSX2 Official Website |
| Steam Link | Steam Link allows you to stream games from your principal gaming PC to your OSMC setup. It provides access to the extensive Steam library, bringing PC-quality gaming to your OSMC platform. With minimal latency, high-quality graphics, and consistent updates, Steam Link ensures a seamless gaming experience. | Steam Link Official Website |
| RetroArch | RetroArch is a versatile emulator that brings together dozens of emulators into a single, user-friendly interface. It supports a broad range of retro consoles and can be customized extensively, with shaders, audio enhancements, and a wide array of settings. Perfect for retro enthusiasts, RetroArch offers a unified experience on OSMC. | RetroArch Official Website |
| Moonlight | Moonlight is an open-source implementation of NVIDIAs GameStream, designed to stream games with low latency from your gaming rig to an OSMC device. The software supports high-resolution streaming, customizable controls, and strong community support. Moonlight is ideal for those seeking high-quality streaming. | Moonlight Official Website |
| PPSSPP | PPSSPP is a popular PSP emulator that lets you play your PSP games in high definition on OSMC. It supports save states, upscale textures, and customizable controls. Its high compatibility rate ensures that most PSP games run smoothly and are visually enhanced. | PPSSPP Official Website |
| Dolphin | The Dolphin emulator allows you to play GameCube and Wii games in full HD on your OSMC system. Features include networked multiplayer, enhanced graphics, save states, and cheat codes. Dolphins ability to improve the gaming experience with textures and shaders makes it a standout emulator. | Dolphin Official Website |
Comparison
Video Game Platforms Available for OSMC (formerly Raspbmc)
| Platform | Type | Supported Games | Compatibility | Installation | Configuration | Performance | Online Features | Controller Support | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | Digital Distribution | Thousands | High | Moderate | Easy | High | Community, Friends | Yes | Requires steamlink |
| PCSX2 | Emulator | PlayStation 2 Titles | High | Moderate | Moderate | High | No | Yes | Best with BIOS files |
| RetroArch | Emulator Frontend | Multiple Consoles | High | Easy | Moderate | High | Netplay | Yes | Supports various cores |
| Recalbox | Emulation Suite | Multiple Consoles | High | Easy | Easy | Moderate | No | Yes | Easy to use interface |
| Moonlight | Game Streaming | PC Games | High | Easy | Easy | High | Friends, Streaming | Yes | Requires NVIDIA GPU |
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