Flycast
Flycast: A broad, free emulator for Dreamcast and four related arcade platforms. Ranked #1 of 7 in Dreamcast Emulators by our editors (9.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for broad Dreamcast and arcade emulation.
At a glance
- Editor score9.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forBroad Dreamcast and arcade emulation
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsWindows, macOS, Linux, Android
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports Dreamcast, Naomi, Naomi 2, Atomiswave, and System SP
- Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android
- Includes save states, networked play, and OpenGL and Vulkan rendering
Where it doesn't
- Games are not included
- Users must provide legally obtained game files
- No AI features
Our verdict on Flycast
Flycast is a free, open-source emulator from Flyinghead for Sega Dreamcast, Naomi, Naomi 2, Atomiswave, and System SP software. It is intended for users who want one application covering Dreamcast and several related arcade platforms, with standalone builds for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. The published feature set includes gamepad and force-feedback support, save states with multiple slots, modem and LAN adapter emulation, high-definition and widescreen rendering, custom high-definition texture packs, RetroAchievements, and networked arcade and Dreamcast features.
Pricing is straightforward: Flycast is free, with no paid plans or feature tiers described. That gives users access to the emulator's listed platform support and capabilities without a subscription. The project is open source, and the published category specifications identify controller support, save states, and online multiplayer. Flycast also supports HLE BIOS functionality, while a Dreamcast BIOS is described as optional. Users should note that games are not included and must provide their own legally obtained game files.
Its main distinction is breadth within this category. Alongside Dreamcast emulation, Flycast covers Naomi, Naomi 2, Atomiswave, and System SP, while offering modern rendering options through OpenGL and Vulkan, plus high-definition output and custom texture packs. That combination suits users who want Dreamcast and arcade coverage in one emulator, particularly those interested in networking or RetroAchievements. It is less suitable for anyone looking for included game content or AI-assisted features. Choose Flycast for broad, free, open-source emulation across its supported platforms; consider an alternative if your priority is a bundled game library or a product with AI features.
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Flycast pricing
Flycast fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Controller support | Yes |
| Save states | Yes |
| Online multiplayer | Yes |
| Graphics backends | Not verified |
| Dreamcast BIOS required | No |
| Deployment | Self-hosted, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | flyinghead.github.io |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Flycast
- RedreamA focused Dreamcast emulator with broad image support, 4K output, and save-state tools.8.6
- DeecyA free, open-source Dreamcast emulator with practical playback and state features.8.1
- WashingtonDCA developer-focused Dreamcast emulator with broad image support and debugging tools.7.6
See all Flycast alternatives →
Flycast vs the competition
- Flycast vs Redream
- Flycast vs Deecy
- Flycast vs WashingtonDC
- Flycast vs nullDC 2.0.0
- Flycast vs Nitrocast
- Flycast vs MAME
Compare Flycast with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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