It is built around RetroArch and based on OpenELEC

May 11, 2015 02:13 GMT  ·  By

Today, we are happy to introduce you to the Lakka Linux kernel-based operating system that acts as a DIY (Do It Yourself) retro emulation console build around the RetroArch game emulator software.

According to the Lakka's official website, it is a lightweight distribution of GNU/Linux that was designed to transform any computer into a full-blown retro game console. Lakka is derived from the well-known OpenELEC operating system.

Being built on top of the well-known RetroArch retro game emulator tool, the Lakka Linux distribution is capable of emulating a wide variety of hardware. Additionally, it includes attractive features like video streaming, joypad hotplug, and Braid-like rewinding.

It runs on numerous computer boards and it's easy to setup and use

Best of all, Lakka is easy to setup and use, and runs on numerous computer boards, including PCs, Raspberry Pi, CuBox-i, HummingBoard, Banana Pi, Cubieboard 2, and Cubietruck. Support for Raspberry Pi 2 and Odroid-C1 computer boards will come very soon.

In addition, Lakka supports PlayStation 3 (PS3) and Xbox 360 controllers. To get started, you can download Lakka from its website by selecting the operating system you're currently using and the hardware on which you want to install it.

Lakka will be available for download for free as compressed IMG files that you need to install on an SD card (detailed instructions will be provided on the download page). Game ROMs can be put on the SD card as well after installing the operating system.

ARM, 32-bit, and 64-bit hardware architectures are supported at this time. Lakka is an open source project, which means that you can start hacking its source code that's hosted on Github. Your contributions are more than welcome!