BB+ Emulation! (in Beta)

BB+ Emulation!

We’re excited to announce the launch of our new in-app emulator! This feature allows you to play your favorite classic games right within our app. Simply “Bring Your Own ROM,” import it into the emulator, and start playing—no extra hardware or software required.

*Currently, this feature is only available to iOS users on version 18.4 or higher. The Android version is still under development.

Importing ROMs:

A ROM is a special file containing the data of a game. The in-app emulator needs these game files in order to run. We do not provide any ROMs, so you will need to obtain them on your own. Please note that legally obtaining a ROM is your responsibility and uploading infringing materials onto our platform is against our Terms and Conditions.

Recommended Approach: Many gamers choose to back up games they already own. Tools like GB Operator (and others) can help you extract legally purchased cartridges into ROM files for personal use.

ROM vs Emulator:

• Emulator = virtual console
• ROM = A ROM is a special file containing the data of a game

How to Import and Launch a ROM:

1. Obtain a ROM File
   • Use a tool like GB Operator to legally back up a cartridge you already own
   • Alternatively, there may be other safe methods online for creating ROM backups from game cartridges you already legally possess
2. Open the In-App Emulator
   • Navigate to the Emulator feature within our app labeled “Add your ROM”. (Look for the new Emulator row in the home screen)
   • You’ll be prompted to select your ROM file from your device’s storage
3. Load and Play
   • Once imported, your game will launch and for easy access in the future will live in your recent games row and the emulator row.

Note that the ROM files are located on your storage and are not shared or made available to other Backbone users simply because you uploaded it into the Emulator tool.

Features:

1. Easy Import: Any supported rom will instantly launch with BB Emulation
2. Saved Game States: Quickly resume playing from wherever you left off
3. Controller + Touchscreen support: Play however you like
4. Play offline: No wifi needed, once ROM’s are imported you can play them anytime, anywhere
5. Emulation Library: Once imported, all your ROMs will be organized in one place

⚠️ Important: Uninstalling the app or clearing app data will permanently delete your ROMs and save states unless you’ve manually backed them up elsewhere. We strongly recommend transferring any important files to a secure location before performing these actions.

 

Supported Systems:

Below are some of the console and arcade systems the in-app emulator supports (subject to change as we continue improving!):

 

Important Disclaimer:

• Legal Use Only: Only import game files for which you own a physical copy or have the legal right to use the ROM. Do not use the in-app emulator with unauthorized or pirated ROMs.
• We Do Not Provide ROMs: You will need to supply your own. We recommend tools like GB Operator, but you may explore other similar methods to obtain legal ROMs
• Supported File Extensions: Ensure your ROM is in a compatible format before attempting to import it.

Glossary & FAQ

Q: What is the difference between a ROM and an emulator?

• Emulator: Software (often called a “virtual console”) that mimics or replicates a console’s hardware. This lets you run games on devices they weren’t originally designed for.
• ROM: A special file containing the game’s data. An emulator needs a ROM to actually play the game.

Q: How do I get ROM files onto my mobile device??

• You can transfer ROM files using one of the following methods:
  • AirDrop / Nearby Share: Send the ROM file from your computer directly to your phone.
  • Cloud storage apps: Upload your ROMs to Google Drive, iCloud Drive, or Dropbox and download them onto your device.
  • USB file transfer: Connect your device to a computer and drag the ROM files into your internal storage.

Q: How does save states work?

• The Backbone app is able to create save states per rom on your mobile device's local storage so you can pickup from where you left off. ⚠️ Important: Uninstalling the app or clearing app data will permanently delete your ROMs and save states unless you’ve manually backed them up elsewhere.

Q: Where do I get ROMs?

• We recommend using a tool like GB Operator to back up games from cartridges you already own. Many other similar solutions exist online, but always ensure you own the original game and comply with local laws.

Q: Is it legal to use the in-app emulator?

• Yes, provided you have the legal right to the game you’re playing. Only use ROMs made from games you already legally own.

Q: I imported a ROM, but it won’t load. Why?

• Make sure the file extension is supported. Also confirm your device’s file management permissions allow the app to access the file.

Q: Can I import multiple ROMs at once?

• Currently, you can import one ROM at a time. Repeat the process for each game you’d like to add.

Q: I have other questions. Who can I contact?

• Please reach out to support@playbackbone.com if you need any additional assistance.

Open Source Notice

Backbone’s emulation feature is built on open source technology. In the spirit of transparency and community contribution, we’ve made the core components available for others to use, modify, and build upon. For more detail on the license we work under, click here.

If you’re interested in exploring or contributing to the technology powering this experience, you can access the open source project here. We’re excited to support the broader developer community and the continued innovation in retro gaming.