The latest Dolphin update delivers some of the most significant changes in years. The previously difficult-to-run titles Toy Story 3, Cars 2, and Disney Infinity are now playable at full speed on capable PCs. Users can even push these titles beyond 60 FPS with the new VBI Frequency Override option.
One of the biggest shifts is that Single Core is now the default on desktop. While Dual Core mode provided performance benefits, it was also the leading cause of random crashes and data loss. With today’s hardware, most users can run Single Core at full speed, so stability now takes priority. Dual Core remains available for those who need it, and it continues to be the default on Android.
Other notable improvements include fixes for a bug in the DSP-LLE recompiler. This is one of Dolphin’s audio modes, designed to closely mimic the original GameCube and Wii sound chip. While it runs slower than the default option, it’s the only way to enable surround sound in some games. In the previous release, it could cause titles to hang or fail to boot, but it now works reliably again.
There are also enhancements to Bluetooth Passthrough (with automatic Realtek firmware loading and better Wii Remote handling), and a multithreaded resource manager that improves HD texture pack performance by reducing stuttering and memory issues. A new Accurate Overall Runtime option helps keep emulated time aligned with real time, which is useful for online play and speedrunning. Finally, controller setup is simpler with a new Map & Calibrate button that streamlines input configuration.
One question the team has received since the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 is whether Dolphin supports the new NSO GameCube Controller. At this time, the answer is no. The Switch 2 controllers use some unusual methods that Dolphin’s developers are waiting on the SDL library to properly support. SDL already has an early implementation, but it is missing features. Once it matures and is included in an official SDL release, Dolphin plans to adopt it, bringing compatibility with these new controllers.
Overall, Dolphin 2509 focuses on long-standing issues, better stability, and features that make the emulator more reliable for both casual play and advanced use.
Download the new version of Dolphin here.