Skip to content

Introduction

What is Cannoli?

Cannoli is an opinionated setup for Retro Emulation on Android.

Android has a reputation for being tedious to set up. Cannoli looks to change this.

What is Retro Emulation?

Retro emulation is the process of using software called an emulator to mimic gaming hardware. This lets you play your old favorites on a much more modern phone, tablet, or dedicated handheld.

What does it look like?

Cannoli is very minimal. At its core you get lists.

Nothing flashy here. No video previews and definitely no background music.

You do get a few personalization options: a wallpaper and accent colors.

That's intentional. I don't want you in the menu. I want you playing games!

Main Menu Favorites In-Game Menu

The Inspiration

I absolutely adore MinUI by Shaun Inman.

No fuss, a focused feature set, and unapologetically opinionated.

I've been yearning for this type of experience on Android.

Without his masterpiece, this pale imitation would not exist.

Project Philosophy

Cannoli has five key design goals:

  • Bake in the essentials
  • Skip the tedious config
  • Make adding games painless
  • Eliminate distractions
  • Get you to play some damn games!

Features That Will Not Be Considered Or Implemented

  • Art Scraper
  • Game Switcher
  • Game Time Tracker
  • Menu Music
  • Themes
  • Video Previews

But I need that feature!

No you don't. And if you do, you have other amazing options on Android!

I won't yuck your yum; if curating and tinkering brings you joy, it brings me joy.

It just means Cannoli probably isn't for you, and that is totally okay.

Avoid the rolling pin!

It has to be said. Nonna is too old for prison. And too gangster.

Cannoli does not provide copyrighted materials or advise you on how to get them.

If you ask for these anywhere (Discord, GitHub, etc.), say goodbye to your knuckles.

Don't be a stranger!

Come hang out with the rest of the Holy Cannoli on Discord!