DuckStation, an open-source PlayStation 1 emulator, can be installed manually on Xbox Series X and Series S consoles to run PS1 games at enhanced resolutions, including 4K, while preserving or increasing frame rates.
What DuckStation brings to Xbox Series X|S
The emulator supports features such as True Color Rendering, which removes the original PS1’s white noise dotting effect, and a texture filter that smooths blocky textures on 3D objects as they scale larger on screen. DuckStation also addresses texture warping that makes straight edges appear to tremble during panoramic camera captures—an artifact commonly seen on the original hardware.
Performance and compatibility
By default, games run at their original frame rates in DuckStation. The emulator can, however, improve startup and gameplay performance on Xbox Series X|S. The software is open source and available for users of Microsoft’s newer consoles as well as the Xbox One, but requires manual installation.
How to install on an Xbox console
To use DuckStation on Xbox Series X or Series S, owners must put their console into developer mode and install the emulator manually. The installation process is not automated through the standard console interface.
Demonstration and examples
A demonstration of DuckStation running on Xbox Series X|S was shown by the Modern Vintage Gamer YouTube channel, which displayed multiple classic titles including Final Fantasy VII and Ridge Racer running on the consoles.
Background on the PlayStation 1
The PlayStation 1 launched in Japan in December 1994 and arrived in Europe and the United States in September 1995. The system marked Sony’s entry into the video game market and the shift from cartridges to CD-based games. The PS1 sold 100 million units worldwide and was discontinued in March 2006.
