DuckStation is a high-performance emulator for the Sony PlayStation(TM) / PSX / PS1 console, designed to prioritize playability, speed, and long-term maintainability. With a focus on accuracy and performance, DuckStation provides a robust platform for enjoying legally purchased and dumped PlayStation games.
Key Features of DuckStation
Wide Game Format Support
- Compatible with cue, iso, img, ecm, mds, chd, and unencrypted PBP game images.
- Offers tools like the cue file generator for single-track bin format games.
Advanced Rendering Options
- Supports OpenGL, Vulkan, and software rendering for versatile performance.
- Features upscaling, texture filtering, and true color (24-bit) for enhanced visuals.
- Includes widescreen rendering for supported games without stretching.
Enhanced Gameplay Experience
- PGXP for geometry precision, texture correction, and depth buffer emulation to fix texture "wobble."
- Adaptive downsampling filter and post-processing shader chains (GLSL and Reshade FX).
- Achieves 60fps in PAL games where supported and offers emulated CPU overclocking for improved FPS.
Customization and Accessibility
- Per-game settings for tailored enhancements and controller mapping.
- Supports up to 8 controllers in multitap-compatible games.
- Features controller and keyboard binding with vibration support.
Additional Tools and Features
- RetroAchievements integration for supported games.
- Memory card editor for managing saves and importing/exporting formats like gme/mcr/mc/mcd.
- Built-in patch code database and save states with preview screenshots.
- Runahead and rewind functionality for advanced gameplay control (not recommended for slow devices).
System Requirements and Compatibility
Device Support
- Compatible with 32-bit/64-bit ARM and 64-bit x86 devices.
- Requires a minimum 1.5GHz CPU for optimal performance on 32-bit ARM devices.
Controller Mapping
- External controllers require manual button and stick mapping in settings.
Why Choose DuckStation?
- Combines accuracy and performance for an authentic PlayStation gaming experience.
- Offers advanced rendering and customization options to enhance gameplay.
- Supports a wide range of devices and game formats, ensuring accessibility for users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is required to start using DuckStation?
A: A "BIOS" ROM image is required, which must be legally dumped from your own console.
Q: Can I play games directly on DuckStation?
A: Yes, but only legally purchased and dumped games are supported.
Q: Does DuckStation support widescreen rendering?
A: Yes, it offers widescreen rendering for supported games without stretching.
Q: What rendering options are available?
A: DuckStation supports OpenGL, Vulkan, and software rendering.
Q: Is DuckStation affiliated with Sony?
A: No, DuckStation is not affiliated with Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Version History
v0.1 ---- 9 Apr 2025
- Bug fixes and improvements.
v1 ---- 8 Jun 2021
- Bug Fixes and improvements.
