# Classic Game Emulators 'OpenEmu' is an Open Source Way to Play Games from Systems of the Past By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2015-12-30 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/game-emulator References: [highsnobiety](http://www.highsnobiety.com/2015/12/30/openemu-nintendo-64-playstation-support/) & [openemu.org](http://openemu.org/) A shift has taken place in the world of video games that has transitioned some consumers from preferring the latest updates, to coveting the games of the past, so the 'OpenEmu' game emulator is designed to keep both sides happy. Offering an open source means of playing games from consoles of the past (think [NES](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/open-source-games-console), [Playstation](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retrogames), [Nintendo 64](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modretro-m64) and more), the 'OpenEmu' game emulator currently supports 16 different consoles. While other game simulators require users to use their keyboard as the controller, 'OpenEmu' game emulator enables the use of an external peripheral controller. Simply adjust the settings in the control panel to set different maneuvers with any controller and it's ready to allow retro gaming functionality with a realistic analog experience. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.9/10 - Popularity: 30% | Activity: 20% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/games) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Retro Gaming:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop and market retro-themed gaming consoles and peripherals to cater to the growing demand for nostalgic gaming experiences. - **Open Source Gaming:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create open source gaming platforms that allow users to customize and modify their gaming experiences, fostering a community-driven and collaborative gaming ecosystem. - **Peripheral Controllers:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design and produce innovative peripheral controllers that enhance the gaming experience, enabling users to seamlessly play retro games with modern functionality. ### Where This Applies - **Gaming Console Manufacturing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate retro game emulators into new gaming console launches, targeting consumers who value both modern and nostalgic gaming experiences. - **Software Development:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop and optimize game emulation software that enables seamless and high-quality retro gaming experiences on various platforms and devices. - **Gaming Accessories:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create and market a range of specialized gaming accessories that enhance the retro gaming experience, such as authentic-style controllers, arcade cabinets, and retro-themed merchandise. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Mobile Retro Gaming Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/delta-app.md) - [Feature-Rich Retro Gamer Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/xgo-handheld-retro-gaming-console.md) - [See-Through Cartridge Gaming Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modretro-m64.md) - [Tiny Retro Gamer Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/open-source-games-console.md) - [Browser Game Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retrogames.md) - [Free Emulation Applications](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ppsspp-ios.md) - [Nostalgic Mobile Gaming Adapters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/epilogue-gb-operator.md) - [Cloud-Based Retro Gamer Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/polymega-app.md) - [Retro Gaming Smartphone Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/soolra.md)