# Recalbox

> Linux distribution used for emulation

**Wikidata**: [Q55739527](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q55739527)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/recalbox

## Summary
Recalbox is a user-friendly Linux distribution designed for retrogaming and media playback, providing a streamlined experience for emulating classic video game consoles and arcade systems. It combines emulation capabilities with media center functionality, supporting a wide range of platforms. Recalbox is free, open-source, and available in multiple languages.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Linux distribution specialized in emulation and retrogaming.
- **License**: PRS Custom (source: [LICENSE.md](https://gitlab.com/recalbox/recalbox/blob/master/LICENSE.md)).
- **Latest Version**: 7.1.1 "Reloaded" (released November 29, 2020).
- **Website**: [https://www.recalbox.com](https://www.recalbox.com) (available in French, English, German, Portuguese, and Spanish).
- **Source Code**: Hosted on [GitLab](https://gitlab.com/recalbox/recalbox) and [GitHub](https://github.com/recalbox/recalbox-os).
- **Classification**: Functions as both a video game console emulator and media player software.
- **Repository**: Official releases tracked via GitLab and GitHub (e.g., version 4.1.0 released October 13, 2017).

## FAQs
### Q: What is Recalbox used for?
A: Recalbox is used to emulate classic video game systems (e.g., Nintendo, PlayStation) and play retro games, while also functioning as a media player for videos and music.

### Q: Is Recalbox free?
A: Yes, Recalbox is free and open-source software, allowing users to download, modify, and distribute it under its custom license.

### Q: What platforms does Recalbox support?
A: Recalbox runs on multiple devices, including PCs, Raspberry Pi, and other single-board computers, supporting a wide range of emulators for systems like SNES, Genesis, and Arcade.

## Why It Matters
Recalbox simplifies the complex process of setting up and managing emulators, making retrogaming accessible to users without technical expertise. It consolidates multiple emulators and media tools into a single interface, eliminating the need for manual configuration. As a free, open-source project, it promotes preservation of gaming history and community-driven development. Its multilingual support and active updates (e.g., version 7.1.1 in 2020) ensure ongoing relevance for both casual gamers and enthusiasts.

## Notable For
- **User-Friendly Design**: Pre-configured "plug-and-play" setup with automatic game detection.
- **All-in-One Solution**: Integrates emulators, media playback, and network sharing in one package.
- **Multilingual Support**: Available in five languages (French, English, German, Portuguese, Spanish).
- **Cross-Platform Compatibility**: Runs on x86_64, Raspberry Pi, and other ARM-based devices.
- **Active Development**: Regular updates (e.g., 4.0.0 in 2016, 7.1.1 in 2020) with community contributions.

## Body
### Overview
Recalbox is a Linux-based operating system optimized for emulating retro gaming consoles and arcade machines. It is designed to run on low-power hardware like Raspberry Pi, as well as standard PCs. The platform emphasizes simplicity, with a polished user interface and automatic configuration of emulators.

### Key Features
- **Emulation Support**: Includes pre-installed emulators for systems such as NES, SNES, Game Boy, PlayStation, and arcade cabinets.
- **Media Center Functionality**: Integrates Kodi for streaming videos, music, and images.
- **Network Capabilities**: Allows game streaming and remote access via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- **Customization**: Users can modify themes, controller layouts, and emulator settings.

### Technical Specifications
- **Versions**:
  - 3.2.11 (March 24, 2015)
  - 4.0.0 (November 26, 2016)
  - 4.1.0 (October 13, 2017)
  - 7.1.1 "Reloaded" (November 29, 2020)
- **License**: PRS Custom (non-standard open-source license).
- **Repositories**:
  - Primary: [GitLab](https://gitlab.com/recalbox/recalbox)
  - Legacy: [GitHub](https://github.com/recalbox/recalbox-os)

### Development
Recalbox is maintained by a community of developers, with source code hosted on GitLab. The project began as a fork of the RetroPie emulator framework but has since differentiated itself with a focus on user experience and media integration. Notable updates include the 4.0.0 release (2016), which introduced a redesigned interface, and the 7.1.1 "Reloaded" update (2020), which improved performance on modern hardware.

## References

1. [Source](https://gitlab.com/recalbox/recalbox/blob/master/LICENSE.md)
2. [Source](https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=recalbox)
3. [Release 3.2.11. 2015](https://github.com/recalbox/recalbox-os/releases/tag/v3.2.11)
4. [Release 4.0.0. 2016](https://github.com/recalbox/recalbox-os/releases/tag/4.0.0)
5. [Release 4.0.1. 2017](https://github.com/recalbox/recalbox-os/releases/tag/4.0.1)
6. [Release 4.1.0. 2017](https://github.com/recalbox/recalbox-os/releases/tag/4.1.0)
7. [Source](https://gitlab.com/recalbox/recalbox/-/releases/7.1.1-Reloaded)
8. [Source](https://www.recalbox.com)
9. [Source](https://lifehacker.com/recalbox-is-a-dead-simple-game-emulator-operating-syste-1780158824)