One of the biggest selling points of the RetroX is PS1 emulation. But not every PlayStation game runs smoothly on a handheld — some are too demanding, others have compatibility issues. We've tested hundreds of titles to bring you the 20 PS1 games that run perfectly on the RetroX.
How We Tested
Every game on this list was tested on a stock RetroX with the included 128GB card. We checked for:
- Frame rate: Stable 60fps (or 30fps for games that originally ran at 30)
- Audio: No crackling, skipping, or desync
- Save states: Working correctly
- Playability: Fully completable from start to finish
The 20 Best PS1 Games on RetroX
RPGs (Perfect for Long Sessions)
1. Final Fantasy VII — The GOAT. Cloud, Sephiroth, Midgar — it all runs flawlessly. Save states mean you can pick up right where you left off on your commute.
2. Final Fantasy IX — Many consider it the best FF on PS1. Beautiful art style that looks incredible on the RetroX's IPS screen.
3. Chrono Cross — 40+ playable characters, stunning music, and a mind-bending story. Runs perfectly.
4. Suikoden II — Often called the greatest RPG ever made. If you haven't played it, this is your chance.
5. Breath of Fire III — Underrated JRPG with a dragon transformation system. Smooth performance throughout.
Action / Adventure
6. Crash Bandicoot: Warped — The best Crash game on PS1. Tight platforming, great variety, and it runs at full speed.
7. Spyro the Dragon — Collect gems, flame sheep, explore colorful worlds. The 3D rendering is surprisingly clean on the RetroX.
8. Metal Gear Solid — Yes, the full MGS experience on a handheld. Codec calls, stealth gameplay, and that legendary story — all perfect.
9. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night — The defining Metroidvania. Alucard's adventure runs at a locked frame rate with zero issues.
10. Resident Evil 2 — Survival horror in your pocket. The pre-rendered backgrounds look fantastic on the small screen.
Fighting Games
11. Tekken 3 — The best fighting game on PS1. Fast, responsive, and every character is viable. Perfect for quick sessions.
12. Street Fighter Alpha 3 — Deep fighting system with a massive roster. Runs at a solid 60fps.
13. Marvel vs. Capcom — Tag-team chaos. Slightly demanding but the RetroX handles it without drops.
Racing
14. Crash Team Racing — Better than Mario Kart? On PS1, absolutely. Smooth racing, great tracks, addictive time trials.
15. Gran Turismo 2 — 650+ cars, dozens of tracks. The simulation racing classic runs surprisingly well.
Platformers
16. Mega Man X4 — Play as X or Zero. Fast action, incredible level design. Buttery smooth on the RetroX.
17. Rayman — Gorgeous 2D art that pops on the IPS screen. Challenging but fair platforming.
Strategy / Puzzle
18. Final Fantasy Tactics — The greatest tactical RPG ever made. Complex job system, political intrigue, and it's perfect for portable play.
19. Harvest Moon: Back to Nature — Farm, fish, fall in love. The ultimate chill game for commutes.
Wild Card
20. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 — Still the best skateboarding game ever made. The soundtrack, the gameplay, the secret areas — all running perfectly.
Games to Avoid (Compatibility Issues)
A few PS1 titles don't run well on R36S-class hardware:
- Gran Turismo 1 — Frame rate drops in replays
- Vagrant Story — Occasional slowdowns in complex areas
- Ridge Racer Type 4 — Minor audio issues
These aren't unplayable, but they're not the smooth experience the 20 games above deliver.
How to Get the Best PS1 Performance
- Use .pbp format instead of .bin/.cue — smaller files, same performance
- Enable frame skip only if needed (most games don't need it)
- Close other running emulators before launching PS1 games
All 20 games on this list come pre-loaded on the RetroX's 128GB card. No downloads, no setup — just turn it on and play.