When nostalgia for my childhood computer first hit me as an adult, the first thing I did was look for a way to emulate the system on my modern setup. Having already experimented with emulators like Catakig and Stop the Madness in the ’90s and early 2000s, it wasn’t difficult to find Virtual ][—one of the best Apple II emulators for modern Macintosh computers.
However, after moving to “bare metal” and using real Apple IIe Platinum and Apple IIc machines, the convenience of having a portable system to play my favorite games became an ongoing dilemma.
The Quest for a Portable Apple II Emulator
A few years ago, with the rise of 3D printing and DIY hardware projects, I dedicated myself to finding a way to replicate the Apple II experience in a small, handheld format. Seeing how entertainment systems like Nintendo and Sega had been successfully converted into portable emulators, I assumed finding something similar for the Apple II wouldn’t be too difficult.
Unfortunately, my search led to many frustrations. I initially focused on poorly implemented solutions like RetroPie and EmulationStation, which run on complex and often cumbersome operating systems. Most solutions I found were designed for desktops or laptops, but nothing truly pocket-sized.
Smartphones, particularly Apple devices, posed another challenge due to their strict prohibition of emulator apps. One of the few available options, FTA, was discontinued and had a somewhat clunky virtual keyboard and joystick interface.
Exploring Raspberry Pi as a Solution
I then turned to the Raspberry Pi, which seemed like a promising alternative. I learned how to install and configure EmulationStation to boot directly into an Apple II emulator upon startup. However, the implementation was far from optimal, and my efforts resulted in small, functional prototypes that were ultimately impractical for actual gameplay.
The MFA Workshop Breakthrough
A breakthrough came when MFA2Workshop released an impressive emulator based on the ESP32, which booted directly into an Apple II environment and ran beautifully. However, it required an external keyboard and joystick. I collaborated with its creator and designed a prototype for what I envisioned as the ideal Apple II handheld. Unfortunately, the project stalled due to various challenges, one of which was designing a miniature USB keyboard. Though I haven’t abandoned the idea, it remains on standby for now.
Discovering the R36S Handheld
Recently, I came across an intriguing Linux-based handheld device from China called the R36S. This device resembles a Game Boy-style console with a built-in screen and controls. Unlike previous attempts, it runs EmulationStation but is far easier to configure and control, allowing better key mapping for Apple II games.
Excited by its potential, I purchased one and began experimenting. After countless hours of research, testing, and tweaking, I successfully adapted the device to emulate the Apple II. While it doesn’t support every game, it handles many of my favorites exceptionally well, making it a fantastic portable retro gaming solution.
Customizing the R36S for an Apple II Experience
To enhance the nostalgic feel, I modified the R36S with a themed interface featuring 8-bit-inspired visuals and designed a custom front sticker with Apple II imagery. Upon booting, the system displays a menu of Apple II games. Selecting a title provides a brief description of the game’s controls before launching the Linapple emulator.
The R36S features a bright, nearly 4-inch display, two SD card slots for storing games, dual USB-C ports (one for charging and another for peripherals like a keyboard or Wi-Fi adapter), volume control, a reset button, and a headphone jack.
A Step Closer to the Ultimate Portable Apple II
Although the R36S isn’t the fully portable Apple II I originally envisioned, it is a highly improved and practical solution. It finally allows me to carry and play Apple II games (as well as other retro systems) anywhere with ease and convenience.
I’m thrilled with this setup and will continue my quest to develop a true portable Apple II—just as Atari, Amiga, and Commodore have done for their classic systems. Until then, the R36S serves as an excellent retro gaming companion.
You can buy the emulator at 8bitstuff.com
