The update to App Store guideline 4.7 now permits "retro game console emulator apps" and apps that run "software that is not embedded in the binary."
Among the first to appear is Emu64 XL, a Commodore 64 emulator that supports a variety of Apple devices including iPads, M1 Macs, and even the Apple Vision Pro. This emulator, created by Raffaele Amuso, allows users to load .T64 and .D64 files, simulating the experience of using floppy disks on a Commodore 64.
For fans of more recent gaming history, there's iGBA by Mattia La Spina. This emulator targets Gameboy Advance and Gameboy Color games, boasting high accuracy and extensive customization options. It's compatible with devices running iOS 12, iPadOS 12, as well as M1 Macs and the Apple Vision Pro.
Both apps are available for free and do not contain any in-app purchases, making them accessible to a wide audience of gaming aficionados. However, users are reminded to ensure they legally own the original ROM files to comply with legal standards when using emulators.
As the world of app-based emulation grows, it will be interesting to see how Apple enforces its guidelines, particularly those related to content filtering and privacy. This development not only expands the gaming capabilities of Apple devices but also opens up a nostalgic gateway to classic games directly from iOS and iPadOS devices.
