Retro-DOS
Retro-DOS: A free, open-source DOS game launcher for handheld devices. Ranked #17 of 26 in MS-DOS Emulators by our editors (7.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for mobile users wanting a simple DOS game launcher.
At a glance
- Editor score7.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forMobile users wanting a simple DOS game launcher
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported host platformsandroid, ios
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open-source Android and iOS builds
- Game library with directory mounting as the C: drive
- Physical gamepads, on-screen controls, and per-game mappings
Where it doesn't
- Source-build orientation can require technical setup
- Feature breadth is narrower than leading desktop options
- Focused on Android and iOS handheld devices
Our verdict on Retro-DOS
Retro-DOS is an open-source MS-DOS games launcher and emulator for handheld devices. It targets Android and iOS users who want to organize and start DOS games from a mobile-oriented interface rather than work with a desktop-focused emulator. Its DOSBox-X-based emulation core is paired with a native SDL3 and Dear ImGui frontend, while the project also provides Android and iOS application targets.
The launcher experience is the main strength. Games are organized in a library and mounted from directories as the C: drive, giving users a clear structure for managing game folders. Input supports physical gamepads, with on-screen controls available when no gamepad is connected. Per-game control mappings add useful flexibility for different titles and input setups. These features make Retro-DOS a practical fit for mobile players who value straightforward game access and adaptable controls.
Retro-DOS is free and open source, and its documented distribution is oriented around source builds rather than a conventional commercial package. That makes it a better match for users comfortable with a project-led setup than for buyers seeking a polished commercial product with a broad desktop feature set. The published feature scope centers on game launching, directory mounting, and mobile controls, so users who need wider emulator coverage or the broader capabilities associated with leading desktop options should look elsewhere. Choose Retro-DOS for a simple Android or iOS DOS gaming launcher; choose an alternative for a more expansive desktop-focused experience.
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Retro-DOS pricing
Retro-DOS fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported host platforms | android, ios |
| DOS target versions | Freedos |
| Disk image formats | Not verified |
| Gamepad support | Yes |
| Save states | Not verified |
| Audio CD support | Not verified |
| Source available | Yes |
| Deployment | Mobile |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Retro-DOS
- DOSBox StagingA capable free emulator for DOS software, games, and Windows 3.1 environments.9.4
- DOSBox PureA focused, free DOS emulator with convenient archive loading and Libretro support.9.2
- DOSBox-XA free, highly configurable choice for advanced DOS and legacy Windows emulation.9.1
See all Retro-DOS alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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