About video game platforms
Video game platforms encompass a variety of software and systems designed to facilitate the playing, purchasing, and organizing of video games. Steam, for example, is a digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation. Launched in 2003, Steam allows users to purchase and download games, engage in multiplayer gaming, and join community discussions. Known for its extensive library and periodic sales offering significant discounts, Steam has become a cornerstone for PC gamers.
Another example is PCSX2, a PlayStation 2 emulator for the PC. This open-source project enables users to run PlayStation 2 games on their computers by mimicking the consoles hardware through software. Emulators like PCSX2 are particularly popular among players who want to revisit classic games with enhanced performance and visual quality.
Platforms such as Steam and PCSX2 provide unique functionalities tailored to different aspects of gaming. While Steam focuses on contemporary game distribution and community features, PCSX2 serves the niche of retro gaming enthusiasts looking to preserve and experience older titles. Both platforms, however, illustrate the diverse methods through which technology has expanded access to and enjoyment of video games.
Best video game platforms for XigmaNAS (formerly NAS4Free)
| Platform | Description | Features | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCSX2 | PCSX2 is a PlayStation 2 emulator that allows users to play PS2 games on their computers. It supports a wide range of PlayStation 2 video games and can be configured to enhance the game graphics to HD resolutions. |
|
PCSX2 Official Site |
| Steam | Steam is a digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation. It is used for purchasing and playing video games, and it supports both large and small developers by providing a platform for their games. |
|
Steam Store |
| RetroArch | RetroArch is a front-end for emulators, game engines, and media players. It allows users to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles through its slick graphical interface. |
|
RetroArch Official Site |
| DOSBox | DOSBox is an emulator that recreates a DOS compatible environment for running older DOS-based applications, primarily classic video games. It is particularly useful for preserving and running abandonware games. |
|
DOSBox Official Site |
| ScummVM | ScummVM allows users to play classic point-and-click adventure games by re-implementing the game engines used for these games. It supports a wide array of adventure games originally made for different platforms. |
|
ScummVM Official Site |
Comparison
Available Video Game Platforms for OS XigmaNAS
| Platform | Version | Developer | License | Supported Formats | Emulation Capabilities | Multiplayer Support | Performance | Installation Complexity | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | 2.10.91.91 | Valve Corporation | Proprietary | .exe, .dmg | None | High | Optimized | Moderate | Steam |
| PCSX2 | 1.6.0 | PCSX2 Team | GPLv2 | .iso, .img | PS2 | Limited | Moderate | High | PCSX2 |
| Dolphin | 5.0 | Dolphin Team | GPLv2 | .iso, .wbfs | Wii, GameCube | Partial | Moderate | High | Dolphin |
| RetroArch | 1.9.0 | Libretro | GPLv3 | .iso, .cue, .bin | Multi-system | Yes | High | Moderate | RetroArch |
| ScummVM | 2.5.0 | ScummVM Team | GPLv3 | .scumm, .savi | Adventure Games | Yes | Low | Easy | ScummVM |
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