# Batocera.linux

> Linux distribution for retro game emulation

**Wikidata**: [Q93440972](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q93440972)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/batocera-linux

## Key Facts

- **Type:** Linux distribution, video game console emulator, media player software
- **License:** GNU General Public License (GPL)
- **Inception:** 2016
- **Website:** https://batocera.org
- **Source Code:** https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux
- **Field of Work:** Retrogaming
- **Instance Of:** Linux distribution
- **Subclass Of:** Video game console emulator, media player software
- **Distrowatch ID:** batocera
- **Sitelink Count:** 3
- **Copyright Status:** Copyrighted
- **Twitter:** @batocera_linux
- **YouTube Channel:** Batocera (Channel ID: UClFpqHKoXsOIV-GjyZqoZcw)
- **Reddit Community:** r/batocera (subreddit: batocera)
- **Discord Server ID:** 357518249883205632
- **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/11fv74mhdz
- **AlternativeTo Software ID:** batocera-linux
- **Holarse Article ID:** batocera
- **Commons Category:** Batocera Linux
- **Described by Source:** Windows Central
- **Wikipedia Languages:** Commons, German, French
- **Wikidata Description:** Linux distribution for retro game emulation
- **Social Media Followers (YouTube):** 7,580 (as of October 1, 2025)
- **YouTube Channel Stats:** 11 videos, 7,340 subscribers, 928,523 views (as of June 15, 2025)
- **GitHub Username:** batocera-linux
- **Version History:** Includes releases from 0.0 (December 22, 2001) to 42 (October 12, 2025)

## FAQs

**Q: What platforms can Batocera.linux run on?**  
Batocera.linux is designed for x86_64 computers but can also run on devices like the Raspberry Pi and other ARM boards. It supports both BIOS-based and UEFI systems.

**Q: What is the primary use case for Batocera.linux?**  
Batocera.linux is primarily used for retro gaming, serving as a video game console emulator and media player. It allows users to play classic games from various consoles and computers.

**Q: Is Batocera.linux free and open-source?**  
Yes, Batocera.linux is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), making it free and open-source software.

**Q: How can I get support or join the community?**  
Support is available through the official Discord server, Reddit community (r/batocera), and YouTube channel. The project also has a presence on GitHub for development-related discussions.

**Q: Where can I find Batocera.linux reviews and discussions?**  
Reviews and discussions can be found on Distrowatch, AlternativeTo, and in articles such as those by Windows Central.

## Why It Matters

Batocera.linux is significant for its role in the retrogaming community, offering a streamlined, easy-to-use Linux distribution specifically for game emulation. It simplifies the process of setting up and playing classic games, making retrogaming accessible to a broader audience. As a live system, it requires no permanent installation, allowing users to turn any compatible hardware into a dedicated gaming machine. Its open-source nature and active community support ensure continuous updates, feature additions, and broad hardware compatibility.

## Notable For

- Being a dedicated Linux distribution for retro game emulation and retrogaming.
- Providing a minimal, plug-and-play environment that can run from USB or be installed.
- Supporting a wide range of hardware, including x86_64 PCs and ARM devices like the Raspberry Pi.
- Being open-source and licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL).
- Featuring active community support via Discord, Reddit, and YouTube.
- Inclusion in major software repositories and coverage by tech publications like Windows Central.

## Body

### Definition and Classification
Batocera.linux is a Linux distribution tailored for retro game emulation and media playback. It is classified as an instance of a Linux distribution and a subclass of video game console emulator and media player software. The project is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL) and has been active since its inception in 2016.

### Key Characteristics and Features
- **Minimal Design:** Batocera.linux is designed to be lightweight and minimal, focusing on essential features for gaming and media.
- **Live System:** It can be used as a live system, running directly from a USB stick or other removable media without installation.
- **Hardware Compatibility:** Supports various hardware platforms, including x86_64 computers and ARM devices.
- **User Experience:** Emphasizes ease of use with a straightforward interface for managing and playing games.

### Version History and Development
Batocera.linux has seen multiple releases since its initial version 0.0 on December 22, 2001. Notable releases include:
- **Version 5.13 (February 2, 2018)**
- **Version 5.14 (March 7, 2018)**
- **Version 5.15 (May 2, 2018)**
- **Version 5.22 (June 8, 2019)**
- **Version 5.24 (November 9, 2019)**
- **Version 5.27.2 (October 3, 2020)**
- **Version 29 (December 11, 2020)**
- **Version 30 (March 6, 2021)**
- **Version 31 (June 18, 2021)**
- **Version 32 (September 30, 2021)**
- **Version 41 (January 9, 2025)**
- **Version 42 (October 12, 2025)** – Latest stable version.

### Community and Support
The Batocera.linux community is active across multiple platforms:
- **Discord:** Server ID 357518249883205632 (English language).
- **Reddit:** Subreddit r/batocera.
- **YouTube:** Channel "Batocera" with 7,580 followers, 7,340 subscribers, and 928,523 views as of 2025.
- **GitHub:** Repository maintained by the user batocera-linux.
- **Social Media:** Presence on Twitter (@batocera_linux).

### Resources and Documentation
- **Official Website:** https://batocera.org (English language).
- **Source Code:** Hosted on GitHub at https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux.
- **Changelog:** Available at https://batocera.org/changelog.
- **Distrowatch:** Profile available at https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=Batocera.
- **AlternativeTo:** Listed with software ID batocera-linux.
- **Holarse:** Article ID batocera.
- **Commons:** Category "Batocera Linux" on Wikimedia Commons.

### Recognition and Coverage
Batocera.linux has been featured in various media outlets, including Windows Central, which discussed its features and compatibility with devices like the Steam Deck. The project is also listed in the Google Knowledge Graph with ID /g/11fv74mhdz.

### Multilingual and International Presence
The project has documentation and community content in multiple languages, including English, German, and French, as indicated by its Wikipedia language entries and Discord server settings.

## References

1. [Release 0.0. 2001](https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux/releases/tag/0_0)
2. [Release 5.13. 2018](https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux/releases/tag/5.13)
3. [Release 5.14. 2018](https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux/releases/tag/5.14)
4. [Release 5.15. 2018](https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux/releases/tag/5.15)
5. [Release 5.22. 2019](https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux/releases/tag/5.22)
6. [Source](https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=Batocera)
7. [Release 5.27.2. 2020](https://github.com/batocera-linux/batocera.linux/releases/tag/5.27.2)
8. [Source](https://batocera.org/changelog)
9. [Source](https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/pc-gaming/emulation-os-batocera-hits-steam-deck-with-brand-new-features)
10. YouTube API
11. GitHub