Raine review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Raine is a free, open-source emulator centered on arcade games and Neo Geo CD software. It is designed for desktop users who want configurable input, graphics, emulator, and game-data settings rather than a broad library of unrelated systems. Windows users can choose 32-bit or 64-bit builds, while Linux users have packages and AppImage builds. The project also provides source archives and supports source compilation. macOS availability is described as an unofficial Apple Silicon port.

Its strongest fit is focused arcade and Neo Geo CD emulation. The feature set includes save-game and high-score data support, shader resources, and configurable game and emulator settings. Shader upscaling is included among the category specifications, giving users a way to adjust the presentation of supported games. Neo Geo CD emulation requires a Neo Geo CD BIOS file, so that system-specific requirement is part of the setup. The project’s source repository includes emulator code, configuration data, and shader resources, which suits users who value an open-source desktop project and access to build materials.

Raine is a sensible choice for players whose library is primarily arcade or Neo Geo CD and who want a free emulator across Windows or Linux, with a macOS-related option for Apple Silicon users. It is less suitable for anyone looking for wide multi-system coverage, since its scope is intentionally concentrated on these platforms. Users should also account for the required Neo Geo CD BIOS and the unofficial nature of the macOS port. Within its narrower category focus, Raine combines desktop builds, customization, game-data support, and open-source availability without adding a paid tier.

Raine pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Supports arcade and Neo Geo CD emulation
  • Runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS-related desktop builds
  • Includes saves, high scores, shaders, and configurable settings
• Where it doesn't
  • Its focus is narrower than broad multi-system emulators
  • Neo Geo CD emulation requires a Neo Geo CD BIOS file
  • The macOS option is described as an unofficial Apple Silicon port

Raine 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 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update