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Emulation

Set Up RetroArch Netplay for Multiplayer Retro Games

Configure RetroArch Netplay for online multiplayer with compatible cores, matching game files, and controller mappings on Windows 11.

by@guidox updated:10/29/26 time:20 min level:Intermediate works on:Windows 11 25H2, build 26200, RetroArch for Windows; verify the installed release and core tools:RetroArch
⚠ Safety notice

Network exposure is possible when hosting multiplayer sessions. Only use game files you own and dumped yourself.

TL;DR

Use RetroArch Netplay with matching game dumps, compatible cores, and synchronized settings. This setup targets mid-range Windows 11 PCs and is suitable for supported games such as Super Mario World and Sonic the Hedgehog 2 when both players use compatible versions.

Before you start

Requirements

  • Windows 11 25H2, build 26200.
  • RetroArch for Windows from https://www.retroarch.com/.
  • A stable internet connection and at least one controller per player.
  • The same legally owned and personally dumped game file on each system.
  • Both players must use compatible RetroArch cores and matching core versions.
Step by step

Instructions

01

Install RetroArch

Download RetroArch from https://www.retroarch.com/ and install it. Open the application and use its online updater to install the core information files, assets, and databases.

tipUse the same RetroArch release on both computers to reduce compatibility problems.
02

Install a compatible emulator core

Open **Main Menu**, select **Load Core**, and choose **Download a Core**. Select a core for the console you want to emulate, such as a SNES core for Super Mario World or a Genesis core for Sonic the Hedgehog 2.

tipBoth players should use the same core and core version. Core availability can vary by platform.
03

Configure your controller

Open **Settings**, select **Input**, and configure your controller bindings. Connect the controller before launching the game, then verify that each button responds correctly.

04

Enable Netplay hosting

Open **Settings**, select **Netplay**, and enable Netplay. Return to the Netplay menu and start hosting a session. Use the host address and port displayed by RetroArch to help the other player connect.

⚠ warningDo not expose unrelated services on your router. If direct connections require port forwarding, forward only the required port and remove the rule when finished.
05

Load the same game and join

The host should load the game using the selected core and start the Netplay session. The other player should open the Netplay menu, select the available host or enter the required connection details, and join.

tipOnly use game files you own and dumped yourself. Never download copyrighted ROMs from unauthorized sources.
06

Test synchronization and latency

Start with a supported game such as Super Mario World and test movement, jumping, and menu input. If controls drift or synchronization fails, stop the session and confirm both players have matching game files, core versions, and relevant settings.

tipPrefer wired Ethernet for the host when possible. Internet routing and latency affect responsiveness.
Troubleshooting

Common issues

The other player cannot connect.

Check that the host is actually hosting, both players use the correct connection details, and the host firewall allows RetroArch on the appropriate network. Check the Netplay settings for the configured port before considering router changes.

Netplay reports a mismatch.

Verify the game file, core name, core version, and relevant emulation settings on both computers. Reinstall the same compatible core version if necessary.

The game runs slowly during multiplayer.

Close CPU-intensive background applications, use a wired connection, and verify that both systems can run the selected core locally at full speed.

The controller is not detected.

Reconnect the controller, check Windows Settings under Bluetooth & devices, and reconfigure RetroArch under Settings > Input.

FAQ

Frequently asked

Do both players need the same game file?

Yes. Matching dumps and compatible core versions help prevent synchronization failures.

Can I host without changing my router?

Sometimes. Network configuration, NAT, and firewall rules determine whether direct hosting works.

Does Netplay work with every RetroArch core?

No. Support and synchronization behavior depend on the core and its implementation.

How to undo this

End the Netplay session and disable hosting in RetroArch's Netplay settings. Remove any temporary router port-forwarding rule and revoke any firewall exception you no longer need. Uninstall RetroArch through Windows Settings if you want to remove it completely; back up any saves or configuration files first.

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