In 2025, more and more players want to enjoy classic Pokémon games directly on their smartphones. Whether on iPhone or Android, solutions exist... but not all are equal. Between Apple restrictions, unstable apps, and questionable ROMs, playing on mobile can quickly become a headache .
Here's our comparison of the most popular Pokémon emulators for mobile, followed by a much simpler and safer alternative for those who just want to play without the hassle.
Why use a Pokémon emulator in 2025?
Emulators allow you to play older Pokémon games on mobile, PC, or tablet. They offer many advantages:
- Access to cult titles like Pokémon Platinum, Heart of Gold, Ruby or Black 2
- Modern features: instant saves, improved graphics, cheats available
- Compatibility with Bluetooth controllers
- Infinite replayability without the need for a physical console
But behind this promise of nostalgia often lie technical obstacles .
Common limitations of classic emulators
Installing an emulator can quickly become an obstacle course:
- Hard to find reliable ROMs
- Many files are corrupted, infected, or contain viruses.
- Some emulators require complex setup
- On iOS, you often have to go through AltStore or manually sign apps
- No support if it doesn't work
Comparison of the best Pokémon emulators in 2025
On PC / Mac
- DeSmuME is still the most stable for Nintendo DS games. It runs Pokémon Platinum, Pearl, and Black 2 without any problems. A bit austere, but very effective.
- The mGBA is perfect for Game Boy Advance games. Lightweight, fast, and very easy to use, it remains a safe bet in 2025.
- RetroArch is a powerful multi-console emulator. It can do anything… as long as you know how to configure it. It's not ideal for beginners.
On Android
- DraStic DS Emulator offers a smooth, stable, and intuitive DS experience. It's one of the few that handles Pokémon games well, even the most demanding ones. It's paid, but incredibly effective.
- My Boy! is excellent for GBA games. It starts quickly, allows for easy cheats, and uses almost no power. Ideal for Ruby, Emerald, FireRed, or Sapphire.
- John GBAC is a simple solution that combines the GBA and GBC consoles. It doesn't have many options, but it offers a fast, bug-free experience.
On iOS
- Delta stands out as the king of iPhone emulators. It supports the GBA, DS, and other consoles. The interface is smooth and intuitive. However, it requires installation via AltStore, which involves a somewhat technical but well-documented procedure.
- iNDS remains a good alternative for DS games. A little less stable than Delta on the latest versions of iOS, but still functional.
- RetroArch is also available on iOS, but suffers from the same limitations: complex configuration, interface not very suitable for beginners.
Why more and more gamers are using Retroxmania
Faced with the increasing complexity of classic emulators, many players are now opting for ready-made packs . This is exactly what Retroxmania offers.
Our Pokémon packs contain everything you need to play right away , whether you're on iPhone, Android, PC, or Mac.
Here's what you get:
- The best Pokémon ROMs already built-in
- Simple, step-by-step installation
- Compatibility tested on the best emulators
- No need to root or jailbreak your device
- No viruses, no bugs
- Customer support in case of problems
👉 Discover all our Pokémon packs here
Boost your experience with our recommended accessories
Using a good emulator is essential. But to truly rediscover the authentic gaming experience , certain accessories can transform your PC, tablet, or smartphone into a true portable retro console . Here are our two must-haves for Pokémon fans.
🎮 A wireless controller for total immersion
Keyboard or touchscreen controls can never replace the comfort of a real controller. To explore Kanto, Hoenn, or Sinnoh in the best possible conditions, our Retroxmania wireless controller is a sure bet.
- Compatible with PC, Android, Mac, Raspberry Pi, retro consoles.
- USB rechargeable, no latency
- Design inspired by classic controllers.
👉 Discover the wireless controller here
💾 A fast microSD card to store all your games
If you're playing on an Android console, laptop, retro box, or phone, your internal memory can quickly become full of ROMs, emulators, and saves.
Our Xiaomi Pro Plus micro SD card is ideal for expanding your gaming space:
- Capacities up to 512 GB
- High-end read/write speed
- Comes with an SD adapter
- Perfect for centralizing all your emulation files