Smash Ultimate PCIndependent port guide
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Independent port guide.
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INDEPENDENT PORT GUIDE

Smash Ultimate PC port vs emulator

Updated · Covers WindowSmash v0.2.0-alpha.1 and OpenSmash runtime-c2ca705

A PC port builds game-specific native code ahead of time; an emulator runs the game through its own emulation system. If your emulator setup already works, keep it while trying a port in a separate folder. Choose the port by your platform, game version and the features you want.

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Recompilation and emulation

WindowSmash and OpenSmash translate the game’s CPU code ahead of time, then compile it for your computer. Their runtime supplies the services the game expects. That makes their build process specific to compatible game files.

An emulator instead provides a general execution environment for console software. Some emulators also use native execution on suitable processors. To compare performance, use the same PC, game version and scene.

Watch OpenSmash in action

Watch OpenSmash running as a native PC program and see how static recompilation differs from emulation.

Recorded on 13 October 2026, this video predates OpenSmash's Linux builds, experimental Windows multiplayer and optional rollback test build; use our Linux and online guides for the current setup.

Platform and version compatibility

Question WindowSmash OpenSmash Emulator path
QuestionExisting game version WindowSmashCheck its tested versions and selected version tree OpenSmashMust be a recognised game build Emulator pathCheck that emulator’s current game-specific reports
QuestionWindows graphics WindowSmashDirectX 11 OpenSmashVulkan 1.3 Emulator pathEden: OpenGL 4.6 or Vulkan 1.1 general graphics baseline
QuestionLinux limits WindowSmashExperimental DXVK/SDL2 path OpenSmashOne CachyOS/NVIDIA/Wayland PC; no online or F1 Emulator pathEden has its own driver/platform requirements
QuestionMac decision WindowSmashOpening/menus only; full matches still need testing OpenSmashEarly build; no completed gameplay test Emulator pathCheck the emulator’s architecture and MoltenVK caveats
QuestionSetup WindowSmashBuild from compatible existing game files OpenSmashBuild with matching runtime/source Emulator pathUse that emulator’s own current documentation

For Eden, check a game-specific report for your OS and GPU as well as its general graphics requirements. For either port, compare requirements with your hardware before building.

If you already use Ryujinx or Eden

Eden does not maintain its own compatibility list. Check current game-specific reports for your emulator version, operating system and GPU to see how it runs on a setup like yours.

Keep a working Ryujinx setup while trying a port in its own folder. When comparing results, match your emulator version, OS and GPU; an old compatibility rating can describe a different setup.

Choose a route

Try a port if you want to build and run its native game program. Keep the original game directory and an independent save backup.

Keep your existing emulator setup when its known behaviour fits what you need. For the ports, compare WindowSmash and OpenSmash first, then read the relevant platform guide. For mods and multiplayer, use mod compatibility and online setup to choose a mod package or connection mode for that project.

Versions covered by this guide

Project Source version Release status and game versions
ProjectWindowSmash Source versiona9aac43 Release status and game versionsNo formal release; v0.2.0-alpha.1 is a prerelease. 11.0.0 and 13.0.5; 13.0.5 has limited match testing. Mac: opening/menus only.
ProjectOpenSmash-Ultimate Source versioneac10a1 Release status and game versionsNo formal release; runtime-c2ca705 is a prerelease. 13.0.4 and 13.0.5 recognised; Linux tested with 13.0.4.

Sources

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