NetherSX2 Guide: PS2 Emulation on Android

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of building and installing NetherSX2, a community fork of the popular PS2 emulator for Android, especially after the removal of AetherSX2 from the Google Play Store. You'll also learn how to migrate your save data if you’re upgrading from the original AetherSX2.

Step 1: Download NetherSX2

• Visit the following links to download the desired version of NetherSX2:
  • NetherSX2 v4248: NetherSX2 v4248 GitHub
  • NetherSX2 Classic v3668: NetherSX2 Classic v3668 GitHub

Step 2: Build NetherSX2 (Optional for Advanced Users)

• If you're an advanced user, you can build the APK directly on your Android device:
  • Download the AetherSX2 APK version 3668 or 4248.
  • Obtain the appropriate xdelta file from the NetherSX2 GitHub page.
  • Install the UniPatcher app from the Google Play Store: UniPatcher.
  • Use UniPatcher to patch the xdelta file to your AetherSX2 APK.

Step 3: Install NetherSX2

• Ensure you have uninstalled any previous AetherSX2 installations.
• If you encounter installation errors, clear out remnants of AetherSX2:
  • Connect your device to a PC.
  • Navigate to internal/Android/data/xyz.aethersx2.android.
  • Backup any saves or states you want to keep before deleting this folder.
• Proceed to install the downloaded NetherSX2 APK.

Step 4: Configure NetherSX2

• Open NetherSX2 after installation.
• Adjust basic settings according to your preferences.
• Familiarize yourself with the interface and available options.

Step 5: Upgrade from AetherSX2

• To upgrade from AetherSX2:
  • Export all your data (saves and configurations).
  • Uninstall AetherSX2, ensuring you do not keep data files.
  • Install the new version of NetherSX2.
  • Import your previously exported data back into NetherSX2.

Step 6: Frontend Demonstration

• Explore the frontend of NetherSX2 to get accustomed to its features.
• Test out a few games to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

You have successfully built, installed, and configured NetherSX2 on your Android device. If you were migrating from AetherSX2, you should now have your save data intact. Enjoy your PS2 games on your Android device and consider exploring additional features and optimizations within NetherSX2 for the best gaming experience.