RetroArch's appearance is dictated by its "driver." Custom themes are most common for the (PlayStation-style) interface. XMB : Best for custom icons and dynamic backgrounds. Ozone : The modern, clean default for PC/Switch. GLUI : Best for touchscreens (Android/iOS). RGUI : A classic low-resolution pixelated look.
This article provides a definitive guide to finding, downloading, installing, and even creating custom themes for RetroArch across Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS.
RetroArch is the ultimate emulation frontend, but let’s be honest—its default interface can look a bit dated. The good news is that RetroArch offers extensive customization options through custom themes. With a little effort, you can transform its appearance into something truly stunning that matches your personal style or evokes the nostalgia of classic consoles.
Here are five community-favorite themes (available via GitHub or forum searches). Search the exact names below. retroarch custom themes download
: The official community hub where users share new color themes and asset packs.
Create a new folder named after your custom theme (e.g., retro-neon ).
RetroArch is the most powerful emulation frontend available today. However, its default user interface (UI) can feel sterile and overly technical. Custom themes allow you to swap the sterile menus for nostalgic, visually stunning interfaces that match your favorite classic consoles. RetroArch's appearance is dictated by its "driver
XMB is perhaps the most popular menu driver for theming, originally inspired by the PlayStation Portable and PlayStation 3 interfaces. It supports full theme customization including custom icons, dynamic wallpapers, and fonts. The XMB interface is available across most platforms and offers the richest theming experience. When people talk about “RetroArch themes,” they’re usually referring to XMB themes.
Cycle through options like Nord , Gruvbox , Deep Purple , or Twilight (Ensure you have run "Update Assets" first to unlock these). Method 3: Adding Custom Wallpapers You can add a custom background image to any theme:
The official source for RetroArch assets is the GitHub repository at github.com/libretro/retroarch-assets. This repository contains all the official user interface elements used to generate the various menu environments. Official themes available through the asset repository include Systematic, Automatic, Monochrome, Pixel, FlatUI, FlatUX, and several others. GLUI : Best for touchscreens (Android/iOS)
This is perhaps the most common theming issue. RetroArch does not automatically update the dynamic_wallpapers_directory config entry when switching icon themes. You need to manually set this directory in the Directories menu and point it to the exact folder containing your wallpaper PNGs. Additionally, ensure your Color Theme is set to “Background Image” (formerly known as “Plain”), as dynamic backgrounds require this setting to function.
Paste your custom theme folder here (e.g., assets/xmb/my-custom-theme/ ). Apply in RetroArch: Open RetroArch. Go to Settings > User Interface > Appearance . Ensure Menu Driver is set to XMB .
– Created by lipebello, this theme features custom icons and dynamic backgrounds for the XMB interface. Installation is straightforward: create a “custom” folder in your RetroArch assets directory and copy the theme files.