DeSmuME stands out as a premier Nintendo DS emulator, allowing users to enjoy a vast library of Nintendo DS games on their Ubuntu systems. Its significance stems from high compatibility rates with DS game titles, customizable graphics settings to enhance game visuals, and the ability to save game states anytime, offering a seamless gaming experience. Furthermore, DeSmuME supports external controllers, includes a cheat code manager, and offers various screen layout options, making it a versatile tool for casual and avid gamers. The emulator also prioritizes performance optimization, allowing users to adjust emulation settings to balance between quality and system resources.
In addition, here are some of the key highlights of utilizing DeSmuME:
- High Compatibility: Runs a wide range of Nintendo DS games.
- Enhanced Graphics: Customizable settings to improve visuals.
- Save States: Ability to save and load game progress anytime.
- External Controller Support: Enhances the gaming experience with gamepad support.
- Cheat Code Manager: Allows for easy management and application of cheats.
- Screen Layout Options: Multiple configurations for single and dual-screen setups.
- Performance Optimization: Adjustable settings to fine-tune performance and resource usage.
- User-friendly Interface: Easy navigation and configuration for all levels of users.
Overall, DeSmuME caters to newcomers and experienced gamers by offering a straightforward yet powerful platform on Ubuntu for reliving classic Nintendo DS titles. Now, let’s get started with the installation process.
Method 1: Install DeSmuME via APT
Update Your Ubuntu System Before DeSmuME Installation
Ensure your Ubuntu system is wholly updated before initiating the installation process. This measure is not only a beneficial computing practice but also helps prevent potential issues during the software installation process. To update your system, you must use your terminal, a powerful tool that allows you to interact directly with your system.
Input the following command to start the update:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgradeInstall DeSmuME on Ubuntu via APT Command
Ubuntu’s repository readily has the DeSmuME emulator. This version is deemed stable and recommended for users who require a reliable version for regular use without frequent updates or cutting-edge features. Ubuntu LTS distributions often lag in releasing new builds, favoring stability over the latest advancements.
To install DeSmuME via the APT package manager, utilize your terminal once again and input the following command:
sudo apt install desmumeBy following these two steps, you will successfully install DeSmuME on your Ubuntu system via the APT repository.
Next, the following section offers an alternative installation method for users who prefer having the latest version installed or like Flatpak installations.
Method 2: Install DeSmuME via Flatpak and Flathub
Your next option for installing DeSmuME is to use Flatpak, a universal package management system. This method is not natively supported in Ubuntu distributions, as Snap, a similar tool and competitor to Flatpak, is developed and maintained by Canonical, Ubuntu’s parent company. Despite this, Flatpak remains accessible through Ubuntu’s default repository.
Flatpak’s unique advantage is its ability to provide the latest software versions. This characteristic can benefit those who prioritize up-to-the-minute updates over stability. Ubuntu, focusing more on strength, often incorporates older software versions in its distributions, only issuing updates to fix security vulnerabilities or critical bugs.
Note: If Flatpak is not yet installed on your system, install it first. We have a comprehensive guide detailing the installation process for the latest version from Flatpak’s official PPA repository, which can be accessed here.
Enabling Flatpak for DeSmuME Installation
To use the Flathub repository to install DeSmuME, you must first enable it on your system. You can achieve this by inputting the following command into your terminal:
sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepoInstall DeSmuME on Ubuntu via Flatpak Command
Once Flathub is enabled, you can install DeSmuME using Flatpak. Execute the following command in your terminal:
flatpak install flathub org.desmume.DeSmuME -yThe installation via Flatpak enhances your grasp of package management on Linux, offering a different perspective than APT-based installations.
Launching DeSmuME via CLI Commands or GUI Path
After successfully installing DeSmuME on your Ubuntu system, the next logical step is understanding how to launch the application. There are primarily two ways to do this, and the most suitable method depends on your specific use case.
Launching DeSmuME via the Applications Menu
The most straightforward approach to open DeSmuME is via the Applications menu. This path allows you to locate the DeSmuME icon and click on it to start the application. If you frequently use the software, consider creating a shortcut for easier access. To do this, right-click the DeSmuME icon and select the option to create a shortcut.
Your path to open DeSmuME would then be as follows:
Activities > Show Applications > DeSmuME
Launching DeSmuME via the Command Line
DeSmuME can also be launched via the Terminal for those who prefer command-line interactions. The method varies slightly depending on whether you installed DeSmuME using the standard APT or Flatpak methods.
If you installed DeSmuME using the APT method, you can launch the software with the simple command desmume in your terminal.
desmumeHowever, if your installation was done using Flatpak, the command changes to flatpak run org.desmume.DeSmuME.
flatpak run org.desmume.DeSmuMEManaging DeSmuME
This section will cover managing your DeSmuME emulator and updating and uninstalling the software.
Update DeSmuME
Keeping your software up-to-date ensures you benefit from the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches. The process varies slightly depending on your original installation method, but the steps are straightforward.
APT Method of Updating DeSmuME
If you installed DeSmuME using the APT method, updating your software involves two key commands. The first is ‘sudo apt update,’ which refreshes your package lists, and the second is ‘sudo apt upgrade,’ which upgrades all upgradable packages. To update DeSmuME, use the following commands in your terminal:
sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt upgradeFlatpak Method of Updating DeSmuME
The update process is more straightforward for those who installed DeSmuME using Flatpak. Use the command’ flatpak update’ in your terminal:
flatpak updateUninstalling DeSmuME
At some point, you might want to uninstall DeSmuME. As with the update process, uninstallation depends on your original installation method.
APT Method
For users who installed DeSmuME via APT, uninstallation can be achieved using the ‘sudo apt remove’ command. This command removes the package but leaves configuration files. To uninstall DeSmuME, enter the following in your terminal:
sudo apt remove desmumeFlatpak Method
If you used Flatpak for your installation, use the ‘flatpak uninstall’ command, followed by the ‘–delete-data’ option to remove associated data. The ‘-y’ option automatically confirms the uninstallation. Enter the following command in your terminal:
flatpak uninstall --delete-data flathub org.desmume.DeSmuME -yRemember, administering your software effectively helps maintain a healthy system, ensuring you have the latest security patches and features. And when the time comes to remove software, knowing how to do so correctly prevents unnecessary remnants from cluttering your system.
Conclusion
Throughout this guide, we’ve walked you through the steps to install DeSmuME on Ubuntu versions 24.04, 22.04, and 20.04 LTS, providing a straightforward path to enjoying Nintendo DS classics on your Linux system. Remember, the key to a smooth emulation experience is tweaking settings to suit your system and preferences. So, dive in, explore the settings, and find the perfect balance for your gaming sessions.