GoNES
GoNES: A focused, free Go-based NES emulator with save states and broad platform access. Ranked #9 of 26 in NES Emulators by our editors (8.4/10); pricing: Open source; best for simple cross-platform emulation with states.
At a glance
- Editor score8.4 / 10
- PricingOpen source
- Best forSimple cross-platform emulation with states
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsWindows, macOS, Linux, web browsers
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and web browsers
- Save, load, and undo emulator states
- Supports controllers, two-player input, and fast-forward
Where it doesn't
- Focused on NES emulation rather than multiple console systems
- Advanced emulator tooling is more limited than higher-ranked options
- Browser use depends on the WebAssembly version
Our verdict on GoNES
GoNES is an open-source Nintendo Entertainment System emulator written in Go. It is designed for users who want to load NES ROM files on Windows, macOS, Linux, or a web browser without choosing a paid product. The project supports core gameplay features alongside configurable controls, video, sound, and audio output settings. Its Apache License 2.0 distribution also suits users who prefer open-source software.
GoNES has a straightforward pricing story: it is open source, with no paid plans described. The platform coverage is a central strength, combining desktop applications for Windows, macOS, and Linux with a WebAssembly version for browser use. External controller support, two-player input, configurable controls, and audio output configuration help it fit different play setups. Screenshot capture and fast-forward add practical conveniences without changing the product’s focused NES scope.
Save-state handling is the standout feature. Users can save and load emulator states, then undo save and load actions when needed, giving the emulator a flexible way to manage progress. GoNES is a good choice for users who want accessible NES emulation, cross-platform availability, and a compact feature set centered on states and controls. It is less suitable for anyone seeking a broader multi-console platform or a deeper collection of advanced emulator features. For a focused NES emulator with desktop and browser options, GoNES keeps the feature set clear and practical.
Your product? Our editors can test GoNES in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
GoNES pricing
GoNES fact sheet
| Free plan | Not verified |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, web browsers |
| Save states | Yes |
| Rewind | Not verified |
| Netplay | Not verified |
| Shader support | Not verified |
| Cheat support | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Open source |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to GoNES
- KuroganeNESA feature-rich, open-source NES emulator delivered as a self-contained HTML file.9.4
- DendyA feature-rich, open-source NES emulator for desktop, browser, and multiplayer play.9.2
- puNESA feature-rich, free NES emulator for Windows and Linux desktops.9.1
Used GoNES? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used GoNES for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
Write a reviewTwo minutes · verified accounts only · read by an editor before it appears
Featured on iTechGuides
GoNES is listed in our NES Emulators directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/gones/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/gones.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update