10+ answers
Questions people ask most.
Quick answers here, plus recurring threads on r/PPSSPP. Still stuck? Check troubleshooting.
Do I need a BIOS or PSP firmware dump?
No. PPSSPP simulates the PSP hardware and operating system internally. You only need game files (ISO/CSO/CHD) that you legally own. PPSSPP will not run the real PSP XMB menu or PlayStation Store.
Can PPSSPP play PS1, PS2, or Vita games?
No. PSP games only. PS1 EBOOTs, PS2 ISOs, and Vita titles require different emulators (e.g. DuckStation, PCSX2, Vita3K).
What's the difference between PPSSPP and PPSSPP Gold?
Functionally identical. Gold is a paid version on Google Play and some stores that funds development. You are not missing features by using the free build. Read more on the Gold page.
Where are my saves stored?
PPSSPP uses a virtual memory stick folder. On desktop: Documents/PPSSPP/memstick/PSP/SAVEDATA or Settings → System → Open Memstick Folder. Save states live in PPSSPP_STATE. On Android 11+, pick a folder at first launch and name it PSP at storage root for simplest setup.
Why won't my save state load?
Save states are tied to the PPSSPP version that created them. A state saved in a dev/git build may not load in stable, and vice versa. Reddit users also report states breaking after emulator updates. Load your in-game save instead. Disable save-state backups in settings for faster save/load (but you lose undo).
My game shows a black screen. What now?
Run the ISO file directly; do not extract it. Verify the dump with Calculate CRC. Reset graphics to defaults and avoid Speedhacks like Skip buffer effects. Try another backend. Homebrew must sit in PSP/GAME/ inside the memstick folder. See the full troubleshooting table.
Should I use stable or git (dev) builds?
Stable (currently 1.20.4) is safest for daily play. Git builds get fixes faster but can introduce new bugs. If a game crashes on stable, try the latest development build from the download page. The issue may already be fixed.
Can I play ad-hoc multiplayer?
Yes, over local network or with PPSSPP's built-in ad-hoc server. On one PC: enable Built-in ad hoc server, set address to localhost, then File → Open New Instance. r/PPSSPP threads note this works but is not perfectly smooth; all players need matching settings and firewall rules.
Why are cutscenes blurry?
Pre-rendered FMVs on UMD were compressed for the PSP's small screen. PPSSPP renders them as-is. Upscaling gameplay does not improve video quality. This is a source limitation, not a settings issue.
Controller works everywhere except PPSSPP on Android
Turn off accessibility services and overlay apps. For iPega pads: charge fully, then press Home + X for Android mode. Map buttons under Settings → Controls → Control Mapping.
Is downloading PSP ISOs legal?
PPSSPP is legal software. Game files are your responsibility. You should only use dumps of titles you own. This site does not host or link to ROM downloads.
Do cheats work?
Yes. Place cheat.db files in the memstick PSP/CHEATS folder or import from the in-game menu. Cheats are per-title; enable them under Settings → Tools → Cheats while a game is loaded.