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Delta can turn an iPhone into a capable Nintendo retro system, but “runs in Delta” does not automatically mean “feels good on a touchscreen.” These eight games cover RPGs, strategy, platforming, action-adventure, racing and 3D exploration while making the control trade-offs clear.
Quick picks: the eight games
| Game | Original system | Genre | Touch controls | Controller | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pokémon Emerald | Game Boy Advance | Role-playing | Excellent | Optional | Best first game |
| The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past | Super Nintendo | Action-adventure | Good | Helpful | Classic exploration |
| Super Mario World | Super Nintendo | Platformer | Good with practice | Helpful | Short, polished sessions |
| Chrono Trigger | Super Nintendo | Role-playing | Excellent | Optional | Story and relaxed play |
| Metroid Fusion | Game Boy Advance | Action-exploration | Good with practice | Recommended | Focused campaign |
| Advance Wars | Game Boy Advance | Turn-based strategy | Excellent | Optional | Best touch-control game |
| Super Mario 64 | Nintendo 64 | 3D platformer | Playable | Strongly recommended | Testing N64 emulation |
| Mario Kart DS | Nintendo DS | Racing | Awkward for some players | Strongly recommended | DS racing and replay |
What Delta is—and what it is not
Delta is an all-in-one emulator for non-jailbroken iPhones. Its official project documentation lists support for NES, Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS and Sega Genesis/Mega Drive in beta: Delta’s supported-system documentation.
Delta supplies the emulator, not the commercial game library. You import your own compatible game files; Delta does not distribute games directly. Its guide recommends a tool such as the GB Operator for creating files from cartridges: Delta’s importing guide. Use files you are legally entitled to use. The legal treatment of personal ROM backups varies by jurisdiction, and this guide does not provide ROM-download sources. Apple’s App Review Guidelines require emulator apps and their games to comply with applicable law.
Is Delta available on iPhone?
For users outside the European Union, Delta is distributed through the App Store. The current U.S. listing requires iOS 14 or later: Delta – Game Emulator on the U.S. App Store. Delta’s official guide directs eligible EU users to AltStore PAL instead: Delta’s regional installation guide. Store availability and requirements can change, so check the listing for your region and device.
#1 Best Overall
- Bluetooth Controller for iPhone & Android: Mocagen mobile gaming controller Compatible with all iPhone models (including 18/17 series) and Android devices. Pairing steps: 1. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and go to the pairing screen. 2. Press and hold the Home button for 3 sec until LED4 flashes. 3. Find "XBOX Wireless Controller" on your phone and tap to pair. Quick reconnect: After first pairing, simply press the Home button once (with Bluetooth on) to reconnect
- Play Most Controller-Compatible Games: This iPhone game controller supports cloud gaming (e.g., Xb*x Game Pass, GeForce NOW), Xbox Remote Play, emulator games, and native mobile games (e.g., Apple Arcade). Enjoy effortless control and play Fortnite, Call of Duty, Roblox, Genshin Impact, and many more anytime, anywhere. Note: Controller only works with games that support controller input, and does not support PS Remote Play
- 5M-Cycle Lifespan & Zero Drift: MC1 mobile gaming controller features a Hall-effect joystick with a 5M cycle lifespan, 2.5x longer than standard carbon-film sticks. Its innovative electromagnetic induction technology ensures drift-free operation, enabling precise character control in intense games and significantly extending this phone game controller durability
- Ergonomic Grip Design: The handle is ergonomically shaped with a l*ser-engraved texture for anti-slip and enhanced grip, effectively reducing fatigue during long gaming sessions. The scientifically designed joystick and button layout ensures smooth operation. Whether for personal use or as a gift, it delivers a more comfortable and healthier gaming experience
- 7-Color RGB Light Ring & 600mAh Battery: The mobile game controller features a 7-color adjustable light ring on the joystick(ABXY button lights can be turned off, but their colors are not adjustable). The lighting is vibrant yet eye-friendly. The built-in 600mAh battery provides up to 6 hours of battery life in brightness mode — enough for a full day of gaming
1. Pokémon Emerald
Why play it
The Game Boy Advance original combines exploration, catching and training with turn-based battles. Menus and battles do not demand rapid, simultaneous inputs, making it one of the safest choices for virtual controls. The GBA screen layout also remains readable on an iPhone.
How it feels on iPhone
Touch controls are excellent for walking, menu navigation and battles. A physical controller is optional rather than necessary. Delta save states make it convenient to pause before a difficult encounter, but keep using Emerald’s normal in-game saves as well.
This recommendation is for the GBA game. Delta’s official system list does not include 3DS or Switch Pokémon titles.
2. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
Why play it
This SNES action-adventure uses a top-down view, dungeon exploration and item-based progression. Its fixed perspective avoids the camera and analog demands of 3D Zelda games while still offering a substantial adventure.
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- WIDE SCREEN COMPATIBILITY — PHONE TO TABLET: X5 Lite is a versatile phone controller that stretches up to 213mm to fit iPhone 15/16, most Android phones, iPad mini 6/7, and compatible Android tablets. Secure Type-C connection keeps gameplay stable and responsive.
- MOBILE, CLOUD & REMOTE GAMING: Play supported mobile games like Zenless Zone Zero, or stream console and PC games through Xbox Game Pass, Steam Link, Moonlight, and remote play. Enjoy physical controls wherever you play.
- HALL EFFECT STICKS — PRECISE CONTROL: GameSir Hall Effect sensing sticks deliver smooth 360° control for accurate aiming, movement, and camera adjustments. Built for fast-paced mobile games and streamed console or PC titles.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & ERGONOMIC — 135.4G: At just 135.4g, X5 Lite stays lightweight during extended gaming. Ergonomic, laser-engraved textured grips provide a secure, comfortable hold at home or on the go.
- CUSHIONED MEMBRANE CONTROLS — COMFORTABLE & QUIETER: Cushioned membrane buttons and triggers provide comfortable feedback for repeated inputs while keeping operation quieter. Ideal for extended sessions or gaming in shared spaces.
How it feels on iPhone
Exploration is comfortable with a virtual directional pad. Swordplay and rapid movement feel better on a controller, especially in crowded rooms, but touch play remains practical for most of the campaign.
3. Super Mario World
Why play it
Super Mario World is immediately understandable, highly polished and divided into levels that work for either a quick session or a longer play period. It is also an excellent demonstration of Delta’s SNES support.
How it feels on iPhone
The virtual controls handle ordinary movement well, but holding the run button while jumping can feel cramped. Delta’s hold-button feature can help with actions such as running in Mario games; its press kit describes that use case at Delta’s official press kit. A controller improves precision without being essential.
4. Chrono Trigger
Why play it
Chrono Trigger is built around dialogue, exploration, party management and turn-based combat. The pace is largely under your control, which makes it unusually comfortable on a phone. The SNES version is the relevant Delta choice; later releases are separate versions.
Rank #3
- 【CONNECTION GUIDE】 ①Make sure the phone controller is NOT in charging before connected. ②Observe if the 4th LED on controller is flashing quickly (if flashing 1.2.3, it is incorrect), If not, press and hold the 'HOME' button to turn off the controller and then connect again: Open your bluetooth on mobile phone, then long press 'HOME' and the 4th light will flash quickly, then find corresponding Bluetooth name and connect.
- 【TIPS FOR IPHONE GAME CONTROLLER】 When the wireless phone controller encounters abnormal situations such as inability to connect/charge, joystick offset, you can try resetting it: poke the 'RESET' hole on the back of controller with a needle, and then restart the controller for iphone to solve most non quality problems
- 【TIPS FOR CLOUD GAMING CONTROLLER】 Please use this mobile game controller to play games on a high-speed and stable network. This is because cloud games have high network requirements and require a high-speed and low latency network environment to reduce latency caused by network congestion and enhance the gaming experience
- 【PLAY ANY CONTROLLER SUPPORTED APP GAMES】 The iphone game controller is designed to enjoy unstoppable gaming experience, work for iPhone/Android, support nearly all cloud gaming services including Xbox Game Pass, Steam Link, GeForce NOW, MFi Apple Arcade & hundreds of popular mobile games like Call of Duty, Roblox, etc. The phone controller perfects your mobile gaming experience beyond a console by making it happen anywhere, anytime, to anyone
- 【WIRELESS IPHONE GAME CONTROLLER WITH HALL JOYSTICK】 Only hold on 'HOME', you can connect controller for iphone with phone via Bluetooth. The Hall effect joystick provide ultra precise control, No drift, No deadzone! It helps you gain dominant position of games faster and the performance and game experience has been improved qualitatively
How it feels on iPhone
Touch controls are excellent because the game rarely requires twitch inputs. Save states are useful before major encounters, while the original save system should remain your primary long-term method.
5. Metroid Fusion
Why play it
This GBA action-exploration game delivers a focused campaign, atmospheric areas and purposeful backtracking without the camera-management problems of a 3D game.
How it feels on iPhone
The compact GBA layout displays well, but movement, jumping, aiming and shooting overlap more than in an RPG. It is playable with touch controls; a physical controller is recommended for sustained action. Save states can soften difficult sections, but relying on them exclusively can undercut the intended progression.
6. Advance Wars
Why play it
Advance Wars may be the clearest example of a game improved by phone portability. Grid-based missions, terrain effects and unit positioning are turn-based, readable and easy to pause.
Rank #4
- Officially licensed by Xbox. Bluetooth connection. Supports Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- Officially supported by Apple. Compatible with Apple and Android devices. Stretchable design fits most phones (100–170mm in length).
- Hall Effect Joysticks and Triggers - Upgraded. Robust and long-lasting. Offering higher precision and sensitivity.
- Tactile bumpers and D-pad, 2 Pro back paddle buttons, Xbox button, and wear-resistant metal joystick rings for more ways to play.
- Support 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 on mobile.
How it feels on iPhone
Touch controls are a strength rather than a compromise. You can take time to inspect the map, experiment with tactics and use save or suspend features without fighting a virtual joystick. No controller is required.
7. Super Mario 64
Why play it
Super Mario 64 adds a landmark 3D game to a list otherwise dominated by 2D systems. It is also a useful way to see what Delta’s N64 support can do; the project identifies Nintendo 64 support through the mupen64plus core: Delta’s project documentation.
How it feels on iPhone
It is playable on a touchscreen, but analog movement and camera control expose the limits of virtual buttons. A physical controller is strongly recommended. Graphics or performance can vary with Delta versions and iPhone models, so do not assume identical results on every device.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.8. Mario Kart DS
Why play it
Mario Kart DS supplies racing variety and Nintendo DS emulation, giving the list a different display and control challenge. Delta accepts DS files with .ds and .nds extensions according to its importing guide.
Best Value
- Why Choose the abxylute M4 Snap-On Phone Controller? Designed exclusively for short quick retro gaming, like Game Boy, NES, SNES and etc. Trusted by 6000+ backers on a tech-focused crowdfunding platform. Pocket-sized play, perfect for your rest time. This compact clip-on controller is compatible with iOS and Android, features a Turbo function—crafted for short bursts of play vertically, horizontally or in detached mode, and ideal for packing in your pocket.
- 【Easy Setup – Power On & Play Instantly!】We recommend attaching the magnetic stickers to a phone case for all phones, rather than using a bare phone. ✅ For Apple MagSafe Models: Snap the magnetic ring onto your MagSafe phone case, power on, and start gaming! ✅ For Non‑MagSafe Models: First attach the included magnetic sticker to your phone case, then snap the magnetic ring onto it. Power on and game right away!
- 【Wide Compatibility – Android & iPhone】Compatible for Android devices, iPhones, and card-size phones (Android devices and iPhone 11/SE and earlier models; iPhone 12/13/14/15/16/17 with MagSafe). Works with all mainstream phones for smooth gaming. Fits iPhone Pro/Pro Max models but may feel top-heavy. Not compatible with foldable phones.
- 【Compact Yet No Loss of Fun】Featuring HID, PS and NS modes, it seamlessly connects to gaming devices via Bluetooth.⚫ HID Mode: Local Games for Android⚫ PS Mode: CODM & PS Remote Play for Android & iOS⚫ NS Mode: All kinds of Emulators
- 【Born for Retro Emulators on Mobile】Designed for retro gaming fans, the M4 Controller works smoothly with top emulators such as Delta, RetroArch and PPSSPP on both iOS and Android.It supports classic games for platforms including Game Boy, NES, SNES,3DS, FC, SFC, SS, N64, GBA, GBC, NDS, and more.
How it feels on iPhone
Steering, acceleration and item use are more comfortable with a physical controller. The two-screen arrangement also requires choosing a useful screen layout and switching attention between displays. DS features and multiplayer behavior can vary by Delta release; do not assume every function works identically in every version.
Which game should you start with?
- Best overall first game: Pokémon Emerald for effortless portable play, or Chrono Trigger if you prefer a story-driven RPG.
- Best for touch controls: Advance Wars.
- Best action game: A Link to the Past.
- Best platformer: Super Mario World.
- Best 3D showcase: Super Mario 64, with a controller.
- Best DS choice: Mario Kart DS, with a controller and a comfortable screen arrangement.
- Best short-session game: Advance Wars.
- Best controller game: Super Mario 64.
Install Delta and import a game
These steps follow Delta’s current U.S. documentation; interface labels can change.
- Open the App Store and search for Delta – Game Emulator by Testut Tech.
- Confirm that the iPhone meets the listing’s iOS 14-or-later requirement, then install the app.
- Obtain a compatible game file through a lawful source or a dump of a cartridge you are entitled to use.
- Open Delta and tap the + button in the game library.
- Choose the file from the Files app. Delta should identify the system and add the game.
Accepted file extensions
| System | Extensions listed by Delta |
|---|---|
| NES | .nes |
| SNES | .smc, .sfc, .fig |
| Game Boy | .gb |
| Game Boy Color | .gbc |
| Game Boy Advance | .gba |
| Nintendo DS | .ds, .nds |
| Nintendo 64 | .n64, .z64 |
| Sega Genesis | .gen, .bin, .md, .smd |
Features that make these games practical
Delta documents save states, fast-forwarding, cheats, customizable controller skins, artwork and external-controller support. The App Store listing specifically names PlayStation, Xbox and MFi controllers. The project also lists Nintendo DS microphone support, gyroscope support for WarioWare: Twisted!, and Delta Sync for games, saves, save states, cheats, skins and controller mappings. Features can be version-dependent. Recent App Store notes mention fixes involving iOS 26 keyboard support, N64 textures, AirPlay and DS games, as well as save-state compatibility.
Troubleshoot a game that will not import or boot
- Check that the extension matches a system Delta supports.
- Extract the file if it is still inside an archive that Delta cannot read.
- Import it again from the Files app.
- If it appears but shows a black screen or will not boot, try a clean dump; corrupted or altered files are common causes.
- Update Delta when the release notes describe a relevant fix, such as N64 texture problems.
- Remember that Switch, 3DS, GameCube and PSP games are outside Delta’s official supported-system list.
- Do not assume every ROM hack works. Delta notes that larger hacks may need patching or additional software.
- If touch controls are the problem, pair a supported PlayStation, Xbox or MFi controller.
For detailed import and troubleshooting guidance, see Delta’s troubleshooting guide.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesDo you need a controller?
No for Pokémon Emerald, Chrono Trigger and Advance Wars; touch controls are generally practical for those games. A controller becomes increasingly valuable for Metroid Fusion, A Link to the Past and Super Mario World, and is strongly recommended for Super Mario 64 and Mario Kart DS. Delta is most enjoyable when the game matches the iPhone’s control limits rather than when compatibility alone determines the choice.
Quick Recap
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