RPCS3 PS3 emulator will improve handheld UI, including adding games directly to Steam

PlayStation gamers who prefer to revisit classics on the go could soon find the experience more convenient. The popular RPCS3 PS3 emulator is testing changes aimed at Windows handhelds and the Steam Deck. Developers are targeting UI improvements and a streamlined way to add games to Steam.

The future of RPCS3 on gaming handhelds

While there isn’t an updated public build of the program to test, the devs have asked for feedback on social media. The emulator recently hit a milestone, with over 70% of PS3 games reaching “playable” status. However, installing and launching ROMs on handhelds can often be time-consuming and cumbersome.

A variety of gaming handhelds will benefit from upcoming revisions, including the Lenovo Legion Go 2 and ROG Xbox Ally. Steam Deck owners would also appreciate not having to constantly switch to desktop mode. To that end, users may soon be able to add new titles directly to Steam using the RPCS3 interface.  

Many of the improvements will appear during gameplay. The vital home menu that simulates the original Sony console's interface is set for a redesign. Players will be able to remap the button that activates this UI. For games that require adjustments to boost performance, another goal is to avoid interrupting the action.

Automatic PS3 game optimizations

Fans have made other suggestions for how the program should evolve. One of the most common requests is for automatic configurations. Users often consult a wiki to find the best settings for a particular title. Yet, there is no seamless method to apply these tweaks, particularly on gaming handhelds. The app’s social media account confirmed that a solution to this issue is in progress.

Unfortunately, after the developers discontinued RPCS3 for Android, those retro gamers will need to seek out alternatives. Currently, the experimental RPCSX‑UI may be the best option, but it supports fewer PS3 games.

Despite excluding many smartphones and tablets, the PS3 emulator enjoys ample community support. With the PlayStation Classics Catalog on the PS5 missing favorites from this era, that’s not likely to change.