stella
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Description:
Atari 2600 VCS emulator
Type: Formula  |  Latest Version: 7.0c@0  |  Tracked Since: Oct 15, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  @stella_emu  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Multimedia
Tags: emulator retro-gaming atari gaming console
Install: brew install stella
About:
Stella is a multi-platform open-source Atari 2600 VCS emulator. It faithfully replicates the hardware of the classic 1977 console, allowing users to play original game cartridges (ROMs) on modern systems. The emulator provides high-accuracy emulation, advanced video filtering, and controller support for a nostalgic gaming experience.
Key Features:
  • High-accuracy emulation of the Atari 2600 hardware
  • Support for original cartridge ROM files
  • Advanced video filters (NTSC/PAL simulation, scanlines)
  • Support for modern input devices (gamepads, keyboards)
Use Cases:
  • Playing classic Atari 2600 games on macOS or Linux
  • Game development and homebrew testing for the Atari 2600
  • Digital preservation of retro gaming history
Alternatives:
  • MAME – MAME is a larger arcade machine emulator that includes Atari 2600 support, whereas Stella is dedicated specifically to the 2600 with more focused features.
  • z26 – z26 is another popular Atari 2600 emulator, primarily for Windows, while Stella offers broader cross-platform support.
Version History
Detected Version Rev Change Commit
Oct 15, 2025 5:03pm 7.0c 0 VERSION_BUMP 9798ae88
Sep 13, 2024 2:18am 0 VERSION_BUMP af4ed556