Flycast
Flycast: A focused free emulator for Dreamcast, Naomi, Atomiswave, and System SP. Ranked #19 of 53 in Multi-System Emulators by our editors (6.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for dreamcast and related arcade emulation.
At a glance
- Editor score6.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forDreamcast and related arcade emulation
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported systems4
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026

Where it wins
- Supports Dreamcast, Naomi, Naomi 2, Atomiswave, and System SP
- Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android
- Includes HD rendering, texture packs, saves, and online support
Where it doesn't
- iOS support was dropped
- Users must provide their own game files
- Texture upscaling was removed in version 2.6
Our verdict on Flycast
Flycast is a free, open-source emulator for Sega Dreamcast, Naomi, Naomi 2, Atomiswave, and System SP software. It is aimed at players who want one focused application for Dreamcast and related arcade systems across Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. The feature set covers save states, VMU saves, controller emulation, high-definition and widescreen rendering, and configurable paths for BIOS, VMU files, and related data. The Android listing states that games are not included, so users need to provide their own game files.
Its strongest case is system coverage within this specific Sega-focused niche. Flycast supports both console and arcade platforms, including Naomi 2 and Atomiswave, while DCNet and game-specific online support add network features for supported software. OpenGL and Vulkan graphics support provide rendering options, and custom high-definition texture packs remain available. BIOS configuration is supported, but a BIOS is not required according to the published category specifications. The combination of desktop and Android builds also suits users who want the same emulator focus across different devices.
Flycast is a good choice for Dreamcast and Sega arcade emulation, especially when save support, widescreen output, texture packs, or online features matter. Its scope is intentionally narrower than a general-purpose emulator hub, so users seeking broader verified system coverage should consider another product. The dropped iOS support limits its mobile reach, and texture upscaling is no longer part of the current feature set after its removal in version 2.6. Choose Flycast for its focused Sega coverage and open-source model; look elsewhere if iOS support or built-in game content is essential.
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Flycast pricing
Flycast fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported systems | 4 |
| Android support | Yes |
| Arcade support | Yes |
| Netplay | Yes |
| BIOS required | No |
| Shader/upscaling | No |
| License | Open-source |
| Deployment | Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Support | Email, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Flycast
- RetroArchA broad, free emulator hub with one interface for collections, cores, controls, and play.9.4
- FoxolFoxol combines multi-system emulation, cloud saves, and multiplayer across web, desktop, and mobile.9.1
- aresA broad, free desktop emulator with preservation-focused tools and system-specific BIOS requirements.8.8
See all Flycast alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Flycast is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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