Lakka
Lakka: A free, multi-system emulation distribution for dedicated Linux-based retro hardware. Ranked #10 of 28 in Sega Genesis Emulators by our editors (8.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux and retro-hardware deployments.
At a glance
- Editor score8.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux and retro-hardware deployments
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsPC; Raspberry Pi; Cubieboard; Banana Pi; Cubox-i; Hummingboard; UDOO; Odroid; WeTek Play
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports Sega Genesis/Mega Drive and many other systems
- Includes netplay, save states, rewind, shaders, and cheat support
- Runs across PCs and several single-board computer families
Where it doesn't
- Requires installation as a dedicated hardware distribution
- The PC image does not support virtualization or dual boot
- Bundled emulators are covered by a Non Commercial license
Our verdict on Lakka
Lakka is a free, open-source Linux distribution that turns a compatible PC or single-board computer into a dedicated retrogaming console. It supports Sega Genesis/Mega Drive emulation alongside other consoles and computer systems, making it a fit for users who want one multi-system environment rather than a standalone Genesis emulator. Its supported hardware includes PCs, Raspberry Pi, Cubieboard, Banana Pi, Cubox-i, Hummingboard, UDOO, Odroid, and WeTek Play.
The platform includes practical emulation controls and multiplayer features. Save states, rewind gameplay, video shaders, display filters, cheat-file support, and automatic controller recognition cover common retro-gaming needs. Network multiplayer is available through netplay, while wireless controller support helps with console-style setups. Whole-system firmware updates are also included, keeping maintenance within the distribution rather than treating each emulator component as a separate application.
Lakka’s main trade-off is its deployment model. It provides downloadable images for supported hardware and is intended for dedicated installations, not for running inside an existing operating system like a conventional desktop application. The PC image does not support virtualization or dual boot, which narrows its fit for users who need to preserve an existing PC setup. The project is a strong choice for Linux-focused retro-hardware deployments and multi-console installations; users seeking a direct, standalone Genesis emulator inside Windows or another existing environment should choose a different approach.
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Lakka pricing
Lakka fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | PC; Raspberry Pi; Cubieboard; Banana Pi; Cubox-i; Hummingboard; UDOO; Odroid; WeTek Play |
| System scope | Multi_console |
| Save states | Yes |
| Netplay | Yes |
| Cheat support | Yes |
| Shader support | Yes |
| License | Open_source |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | lakka.tv |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Lakka
- RetroArchA free, open-source frontend with broad platform support and deep emulator controls.9.4
- Genesis Plus GXA broad Sega emulator with save states, hardware emulation, cheats, filters, and netplay.9.2
- MD.emuA feature-rich Sega emulator with saves, cheats, CD images, archives, and controller support.8.9
Also Ranked In
Lakka is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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