Emulator

An emulator is software or hardware that imitates the functions of a different computing system. In gaming, it can let a modern PC, phone, console, or preservation setup run software designed for older arcade boards or consoles. Emulation may translate processor instructions, recreate graphics and audio chips, and reproduce timing closely enough for games to behave correctly. Accuracy, performance, and compatibility vary by project. Emulators have legitimate uses in development, accessibility, research, and preservation; the legal status of copied game files, firmware, encryption keys, and distribution depends on rights and jurisdiction.