Kodi, the free and open-source media player, is very famous for movie and TV show streaming, as well as music. But what’s much less known, is that Kodi can become a powerful retro gaming machine. It is possible to use it to play your favorite retro titles directly on your Kodi, if set up properly. This tutorial will guide you through how to set up Kodi for retro gaming.
Step 1: Install Kodi
You have to first install Kodi on your device before you start playing retro games. Here’s how you do it:
1. Download Kodi: Head over to Kodi’s official website and download the latest version for your platform, whether it’s Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS.
2. Install Kodi: Proceed with the installation instructions for your operating system.
3. Launch Kodi: After installation, open Kodi to test that it’s working properly.
Step 2: Enable the RetroPlayer Feature
Kodi’s built-in RetroPlayer feature also lets you play retro games. Here’s how you can get it working:
1. Open Kodi and get access to the settings menu by clicking on the gear icon.
2. Go to “Add-ons” and toggle the “Unknown sources” to “on” in order to enable third-party add-ons.
3. Navigate to “Settings > Player > Games” and ensure that “Enable games” is turned on
Step 3: Game Add-ons Installation
Kodi has several emulators and game add-ons which one can install:
1. From the main menu, select “Add-ons.”
2. Choose Game Add-ons: navigate to “Install from repository > Game add-ons.”
3. Install Emulators: from the list, select the desired platforms (like NES, SNES, Sega Genesis) to install
Step 4: Add ROMs to Your Library
ROMs are the digital copy of the games you will be using to play retro titles. Note that downloading ROMs for games which you don’t own may be a copyright infringement. Only use legally sourced ROMs.
1. On your device, create a folder for your ROMs and sort the ROMs by console.
2. In Kodi, add ROMs to Kodi:
3. the “Games” in Kodi’s main menu.
4. Select “Add games” and browse to the folder containing your ROMs.
5. Select the emulator for each game.
Step 5: Configure Game Controllers
To enjoy the best gaming experience, connect a game controller to your device:
1.Connect Your Controller: Connect a USB controller or pair a Bluetooth controller that is compatible with your device.
2.Configure the Controller: In Kodi, go to “Settings > System > Input” and configure your controller buttons.
3.Test Your Controller: Play a game to test the controller.
Step 6: Launch and Play Games
You are now all set to play games:
1.Access Games: Open the “Games” tab in Kodi.
2.Choose a Game: Browse your collection, select a game, and click “Play.”
3.Play: Get into your favorite retro games and enjoy the nostalgia.
Tips for a Better Gaming Experience
1.Make Use of Save States: Kodi’s RetroPlayer allows you to save and load your progress at any point by supporting save states.
2.Optimize Graphics: There are settings in some emulators that enhance the graphics, including scaling and shaders.
3.Explore Add-ons: Gaining other gaming add-ons available, such as cheats or game art, can help improve your experience.
4.Update Kodi From Time to Time: Updating Kodi regularly will ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.
Conclusion
Setup Kodi to play old school games: there is no need to flip through multiple devices & consoles to get into the retro title fun. Powerful RetroPlayer Kodi will take care of various emulators for you. Use this guide to get yourself playing the classics within minutes.