SDL MAME | Download, System Requirements & Installation Guide

SDL MAME is an emulator that allows gamers to play classic arcade games on their computers. It is a version of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator (MAME) that uses the Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL) library to provide cross-platform compatibility. In this article, we will explore various aspects of SDL MAME, including its history, versions, system requirements, download and installation process, ROMs, plugins, input devices, cheat codes, popular games, and troubleshooting tips.

1. What is SDL MAME?

SDL MAME is an emulator that allows gamers to play classic arcade games on their computers. It is a version of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator (MAME) that uses the Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL) library to provide cross-platform compatibility. SDL MAME is free and open-source software that can run on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.

2. History of SDL MAME

SDL MAME was first released in 2002 as a fork of MAME that used the SDL library instead of the original MAME code. The goal was to provide a more user-friendly and cross-platform version of MAME. Since then, SDL MAME has undergone several updates and improvements, with the latest version being released in 2018.

3. Versions of SDL MAME

Below are the versions of SDL MAME:

• SDL MAME 0.103
• SDL MAME 0.128
• SDL MAME 0.139
• SDL MAME 0.149
• SDL MAME 0.159
• SDL MAME 0.169
• SDL MAME 0.179
• SDL MAME 0.189
• SDL MAME 0.199
• SDL MAME 0.209

4. How to use SDL MAME

Using SDL MAME is relatively simple. After downloading and installing the emulator, users can run it and load a ROM file to start playing. SDL MAME supports various input devices, including keyboards, joysticks, and gamepads. Users can also configure the emulator’s settings, such as video and audio options, to optimize their gaming experience.

5. System requirements

The system requirements for SDL MAME depend on the user’s operating system and the games they want to play. Generally, SDL MAME requires a computer with a decent processor, graphics card, and RAM to run smoothly. Users should check the emulator’s documentation for specific system requirements.

6. SDL MAME download

SDL MAME can be downloaded from various sources, including the official website and third-party repositories. Users should ensure that they download the correct version of SDL MAME for their operating system.

7. How to install SDL MAME

After downloading SDL MAME, users can install it by following the instructions provided with the download. Generally, the installation process involves extracting the emulator’s files to a folder and running the executable file.

8. How to uninstall SDL MAME

To uninstall SDL MAME, users can simply delete the emulator’s files from their computer. Some operating systems may have additional steps for uninstalling software, such as using an uninstaller program or removing registry entries.

9. ROMs

SDL MAME supports various types of ROMs, including arcade game ROMs, BIOS ROMs, and device ROMs. Users should ensure that they have the correct ROM files for the games they want to play and that they are legally obtained.

10. How to run a ROM on SDL MAME

To run a ROM on SDL MAME, users can load the ROM file from the emulator’s interface. Users should ensure that they have the correct ROM file and that it is located in the emulator’s ROM directory.

11. How to configure SDL MAME

To configure SDL MAME, users can access the emulator’s settings from the interface. Users can adjust various options, such as video and audio settings, to optimize their gaming experience.

12. How to assign plugins to SDL MAME

To assign plugins to SDL MAME, users can place the plugin files in the emulator’s plugin directory. Users should ensure that they have the correct plugin files for their version of SDL MAME.

13. List with plugins

Below are plugins you can use for SDL MAME:

• SDL_sound
• SDL_net
• SDL_image
• SDL_ttf
• SDL_gfx
• SDL_mixer
• SDL_gpu
• SDL_rtf
• SDL_draw
• SDL_gfxprimitives

14. Input devices

To configure input devices in SDL MAME, users can access the emulator’s input settings from the interface. Users can assign buttons and axes to various input devices, such as keyboards, joysticks, and gamepads.

15. How to use cheat codes

To use cheat codes in SDL MAME, users can access the emulator’s cheat settings from the interface. Users can enter cheat codes for various games to unlock hidden features or gain advantages.

16. List with cheat codes

Below are some cheat codes for SDL MAME:

• Infinite lives: UP, UP, DOWN, DOWN, LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT, RIGHT, B, A
• Unlock all levels: UP, DOWN, LEFT, RIGHT, A, B, START
• Invincibility: LEFT, RIGHT, UP, DOWN, A, B, START

17. Popular games

Some of the most popular games that can be played using SDL MAME include Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, and Street Fighter II. Users can find ROMs for these and other games online.

18. How to save in SDL MAME

To save settings in SDL MAME, users can access the emulator’s save settings from the interface. Users can save their configuration and game progress to resume later.

19. Troubleshoot

If users encounter issues while using SDL MAME, they can consult the emulator’s documentation or online forums for troubleshooting tips. Common issues include ROM file errors, input device configuration problems, and performance issues.