Optional server-side emulation

[reherald]

Feature summary

Would you consider adding an optional server-side emulation mode to Moonfin/Moonbase?

In this mode, the server—or another configured gaming PC—would run the emulator and stream its video and audio to the Moonfin client. Moonfin would send controller, keyboard, or touch input back to the host.

This would complement the existing client-side libretro and EmulatorJS options rather than replace them.

Problem this would solve

Moonfin’s present emulation system depends on the client device having a compatible core and enough processing power to run the game locally. This works well for many retro systems, but it limits more demanding platforms and some clients.

Server-side emulation could make systems such as these possible:

Nintendo GameCube and Wii through Dolphin
PlayStation 2 through PCSX2

Save handling

Ideally, server-hosted games would retain Moonfin’s existing per-user approach to saves. Where normal save-state synchronization is not possible, each Jellyfin user could receive an isolated emulator profile, memory card, or save directory.

This would prevent different users from overwriting one another’s progress while allowing the same user to continue a game from another Moonfin device.

[RadicalMuffinMan]

It's planned sometime in the future but not as easy as you think, especially with it being across 11 different clients

[reherald]

Awesome, no disrespect. I imagine every detail is bigger than it appears. Looking foward to it one day!