pico-smsplus review
A focused board-based emulator for Sega Master System, Game Gear, and SG-1000 games.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
pico-smsplus is open-source firmware for emulating Sega Master System, Game Gear, and SG-1000 games on supported RP2040 and RP2350-based boards. Its documented hardware includes Raspberry Pi Pico models, several Adafruit, Pimoroni, Waveshare, and Murmulator boards, plus other compatible configurations. ROM files are loaded from FAT32 or exFAT SD cards, with video and sound delivered through HDMI or DVI depending on the board. This makes it a fit for projects centered on dedicated embedded hardware rather than desktop or mobile emulation.
The feature set is practical for a compact console-style setup. A game-selection menu manages SD-card ROMs and shows recently played games, while save states and battery-backed saves support different ways to preserve progress. USB drive mode provides a method for managing SD-card contents without removing the card. Compatible games can use two-player controllers, and supported RP2350 configurations add YM2413 FM sound emulation. The firmware also supports audio recording on RP2350 boards with PSRAM, with the repository documenting approximately 30 seconds of recording.
Its main trade-off is its narrow platform focus. Users need one of the supported boards and an appropriate display, storage, and controller arrangement; it is not positioned as a general-purpose emulator for common computer or mobile operating systems. The documented scope also leaves out verified video recording, input recording, replay, debugger, and shader features. Choose pico-smsplus for open-source Sega emulation built around compatible embedded boards, SD-card management, and physical display output. Choose another option if you need a desktop-style emulator, broader system coverage, or advanced development and graphics tools.
pico-smsplus pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports Master System, Game Gear, and SG-1000 emulation
- Includes save states, SD-card saves, and a ROM selection menu
- Provides HDMI or DVI output, USB drive mode, and two-player support
- Where it doesn't
- Requires compatible RP2040 or RP2350 hardware
- Not a desktop or mobile emulator
- No verified video recording, replay, debugger, or shader features
pico-smsplus fact sheet, pricing and score →
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