Transform ANY PC into a Retro Gaming Console

Chances are, you might have an older PC lying around the house. Or maybe you just bought a mini PC. How about we turn it into a retro gaming console? In this guide I'll show you how to install Batocera, a Linux-based custom operating system that will give any PC a console-like experience. Additionally, let's learn how to install Steam games to play alongside your favorite retro classics.

Timestamps:
00:00 introduction
02:06 pick your "console"
06:30 setup and installation
10:45 boot into Batocera
13:02 controller options
17:29 adding games and BIOS
22:31 making Batocera pretty
25:00 system and game settings
27:52 Steam games in Batocera
35:00 set up multiplayer
35:58 summary and conclusion

Theme song written by Jim Gray of Our Ghosts:

This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only.

#Batocera #emulation #retrogaming

[BatoceraNation]

Russ, thanks for the shout-out! Really appreciate it. I have been overwhelmed by my father's stroke. Do plan to keep the channel for the time being and do plan to make more videos. Really love your channel and truly enjoy your videos! Thanks!

[benmcreynolds]

With the unpredictable current state of gaming.. Getting back into games i grew up with in the 90's-00's era. It really makes me realize just how great we had it back in those days & i honestly wish current gaming could get intouch with the best aspects of previous gaming era's and blend it with today's capabilities and find the best of both worlds.

[davidrin]

Best emulation channel on YouTube! Your videos and production values are both informative and impeccable! Keep up the great work. I watched your Batocera video last year and putting that together was awesome. When I get more time, I look forward to working on more retro projects in the future. Thank you for the tutorials, tips and reviews

[erickgomez]

I swear to god Russ came in I just bought a mini pc and set batocera on it last night and I was wondering how to do all this!!! All hail Russ!!

[Properbeer]

You’re really doing a service for the community mate! Thanks for all your efforts😀

[juggalotuz]

I've been thinking of getting a mini pc for a while for portable retro gaming. Your spreadsheet is very helpful, thank you for your hard work. Looking forward to more videos.

[wizdude]

I’ve been reusing old mini pc’s that are being disposed of by my customers to make retro gaming machines for friends and relatives. Older machines will get up to PS1 and some lighter GameCube stuff but it’s ultra cool all the same. Thanks for the steam content in this video. I hadn’t done that before and it’s great to know how to integrate it all. Cheers 😊

[RicardoRodriguez]

I recently went through this process and it was really fun to get everything set up. Love your videos Russ!

[BrianJones-wkcx]

BRILLIANT GUIDE, thank you! For those who need to remain in Windows for certain Windows titles, RetroBat is a unified installer for emulators and Emulation Stations front end, just bring your own ROMS and BIOS files. I LOVE Batocera and prefer it, but I have found Retrobat to be the perfect Windows stand-in, essentially a Batocera-like configuration for Windows. Perhaps worth some coverage on the channel for those stuck on Windows and either unwilling or unable to get Batocera working?

[breakpack]

I did this last week with my MinisForum UM560XT. So far it's running up to PS2, GC and XBox! And if I ever want to upgrade, I just put the hard drive into the new mini PC!

[SuperRogier]

Thank you so much, you have inspired me to dust off an old Mac mini. This video and your content is really great, never disappoints. Why are not more YouTubers like you? No overpromise, just say how it is and what the best options are, given all the options. The time you are saving me to figure everything out is insane. Cheers man, thanks again.

[virtuoso]

I actually had no idea mini pc's like this existed. This is exactly what I've been looking for. A home console type setup where I can play classic games with friends. Thanks so much for this!

[MrPiggalicious]

Just want to say I love watching your videos. You are a great narrator and don't talk down to the viewers. Thanks!!!

[MIInsane]

Thank you so much for this video. Bought the Beelink SER5 and set up Batocera on a 2tb SSD. Followed your directions and now I have an awesome gaming machine!

[neilfarquhar]

Another awesome video. I have learnt a lot from your channel over the last few years, from installing custom firmware and builds, setting up mini pc's and even hacking my Vita! Keep doing what you do my friend, because you're the best in the business 👌🏼 Thanks for uploading and sharing 😃👍🏻

[poketipscr]

I appreciate the time invested in creating this video, it is detailed and properly explained. Great work!

[redkefka]

You do the best guides, and its great that you have both written and video versions. Thanks for your work!

[tafsirdiallo]

Just wanted to say thank you. My NUC has a second life and I am enjoying playing Retro gaming. This video is great.

[gfdggdfgdgf]

And there's also emuelec which is a very similar thing to batocera but for android TV boxes. With an s905x3 based android box (which are very cheap, from around $25) you can go up to around PSP emulation, speed is similar to a raspberry pi 4)

[JonathanHolt]

Rii also makes a wireless keyboard like the one you use that has a controller on the opposite side, and it works pretty well. It's nice if you need a keyboard, mouse, and controller but don't want to carry all three separately or don't have a lot of space.