Retrom

At a glance

• Editor score
  7.7 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Self-hosted or desktop libraries
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Store coverage
  Multi-store-plus-emulators
• Facts checked
  20 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Scans local directories and manages games across multiple platforms
  • Supports Steam integration, emulator profiles, and launch arguments
  • Synchronizes emulator saves and supports fullscreen gamepad navigation

• Where it doesn't

  • Requires a server and desktop-client setup for the full experience
  • Internet-facing deployments should run behind a reverse proxy
  • Its focus on emulation may not suit users seeking a storefront-only library

Our verdict on Retrom

Retrom is a free, open-source game library management service built for self-hosted collections and emulation. It scans locally mounted directories, adds games and platforms to a library, and stores metadata and artwork through metadata providers. Desktop clients for Windows, macOS, and Linux can install, uninstall, download, and launch games, while the browser-based web client provides another way to access the library. The project is suited to users who want control over a multi-platform collection rather than a single-store launcher.

Its ecosystem fit is a strong part of the offering. Retrom integrates third-party libraries including Steam and supports IGDB for metadata, while its multi-store-plus-emulators coverage brings games from local directories, third-party libraries, and configured emulators into one system. Emulator profiles can define command-line launch arguments, and the service supports both built-in and standalone emulators. Fullscreen navigation with gamepad support also gives the library a living-room-friendly mode without limiting access to the web and desktop clients.

Setup requires more involvement than a purely hosted library app because Retrom is distributed as a server plus desktop clients. Standalone mode can run a locally managed server, and the published notes recommend placing the service behind a reverse proxy when it is exposed to the internet. Save synchronization covers built-in and standalone emulator setups, including emulator saves and states, which is a notable feature for users moving between compatible environments. Pick Retrom if you want an open-source, self-hosted library with emulation profiles and synchronized saves. Choose an alternative if operating a server or managing local game paths is not part of your preferred workflow.

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Retrom pricing

Retrom fact sheet

Retrom integrations

Retrom lists 2 integrations on its own site.

• Steam
• IGDB

Alternatives to Retrom

• LaunchBoxA polished Windows hub for storefront libraries, emulators, metadata, and controller-first browsing.8.9
• GOG GalaxyA free GOG-centered launcher with connected libraries, offline support, and community integrations.8.9
• LutrisA free Linux hub for storefront games, emulators, runners, and Steam libraries.8.8

See all Retrom alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update