So I asked my friends on the RetroDECK team if they’d be open to me asking them a few questions about their latest update (which is a full rewrite of RetroDECK), and they were more than happy to.
For context, RetroDECK is a Flatpak-distributed retro gaming platform designed to bundle clients, multi-emulators, game engines, tools, ports and emulators into a single, self-contained application. Built around the ES-DE frontend and targeting platforms like the Steam Deck and desktop Linux, its aim is simple in concept: make endless retro gaming easy to install, easy to remove, and easy to maintain, without requiring users to manually piece together emulators, dependencies, and configurations.
I’ve used RetroDECK for years now on my Steam Deck, and absolutely swear by it over the alternatives. I love their work, and definitely encourage you to try it if you haven’t already :)
Here’s a little edit, my full questions and answers with the devs is available to read with the following link:
https://gardinerbryant.com/retrodeck-thtalking-about-their-bigget-update-yet/


So what’s the difference between Retrodeck and Emudeck? Is there a benefit to switching over really?
RetroDeck doesn’t leave crap all over your system and cleans up after itself.
Perfect answer, thanks!
RetroDeck has the advantage of being a Flatpak and not needing Deckyloader plugin if you’re using a Steam Deck.
I’ve had a great experience with it👍
Download Size: 2.14 GiB
So what? How much bigger is it than the other one?
If it allows me to not change too many things on the Deck to install, I’m okay with wasting some space compared to other solutions.
Also it can emulate not just one console.
That’s nice but for me if a software is also available as a Flatpak it’s an advantage for people that use Flatpak. If it’s available only as a Flatpak (which this one is) it’s a disadvantage for all the people that don’t use it. 2GB for one app is insane. Duckstation is ~80MB
Most people don’t care as long as it’s not 100 GiB
The ease of installation, management, and removal is a higher priority for most. Hence, Flatpak is superior for an average Joe.
Doesn’t hurt to use native options if you like them.