SwanStation - PS1 Emulator - How to Set-Up and Install Guide - RetroArch - SteamDeck - Linux

So, I've had a couple of requests for a SwanStation guide. For those who don't know, SwanStation is basically DuckStation but on the RetroArch set-up. Im not going to go into the can of worms as to why we have this fork and why it's not officially on RetroArch. But the point is we have SwanStation as a result. So here is a quick guide on setting it up and fixing any potential issues when booting anything up. Firstly, you'll need RetroArch itself from the website. Once that is done, you'll need to download the core itself from the program. Next, we need the bios, You can get this yourself from dumping your own console or via looking online. The file should look as shown in the video (unless you're using a Japanese or PAL edition, then the numbers will be different). This should be all you need to start replaying your classic childhood games. HOWEVER, if like myself you find your getting error messages that might be down to the following reasons. 1) I updated my HDD to an SSD recently and found nothing would work. This is because I needed Microsoft Visuals c++ in order to load anything. You can easily get these off the DuckStation website. Simply download and install. If your using the Linux flatpak you might not need this but it'll depend on what version you're running. 2) Files not in correct order. Your games WILL need to be in either Bin/Cue format or ISO in order to work correctly (Some other formats can be done, but they will cause headaches. 3) Music is missing - Load the CUE file and not the Bin file. 4) Game fails to boot - Check the Bios IS correctly named because it needs to be as shown. 5) EmuDeck users. If you've used EmuDeck to install all your stuff then it depends on if you selected DuckStation to install automatically. If you have BUT still want to use SwanStation for abit more convience then simply download the core from retroarch itself as it should locate the bios from the same folder as DuckStation automatically. Honestly SwanStation isnt that different to DuckStation (Because it IS a folk) however it is abit more idiot proof because it simplifies some of the menus, removes some options, Is easier to access via the quick menu and if you have your other launchers all in one place it really is just easier to use. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Want to help the channel grow? remember to please like, leave a comment and subscribe. We also have a group on steam for anyone interested in joining. Check out IndieGamesLove and see if you fancy joining. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Got any idea of what game you would like to see reviewed next or what gameplay footage you might want to see? just drop a comment and I will see what I can do