VisualBoyAdvance on iOS lets you play Game Boy Advance classics like Pokémon Emerald on your iPhone or iPad, but Apple’s strict App Store rules make installation tricky. Gamers want a safe, easy way to enjoy retro games without risking device security. This guide delivers clear steps to install VisualBoyAdvance or GBA4iOS using AltStore, a trusted sideloading tool. With 60% of mobile gamers using emulators for retro gaming (Statista, 2024), you’ll quickly set up Delta Emulator or GBA4iOS to relive childhood favorites. Follow our simple instructions to play securely in minutes, keeping your iOS device safe.
Why Choose GBA4iOS or Delta for iOS?
GBA4iOS and Delta Emulator are top choices for running Game Boy Advance games on iOS devices. Unlike RetroArch, which requires complex core downloads, these emulators offer user-friendly interfaces and reliable performance. GBA4iOS, developed by Riley Testut, supports iOS 12 and later, while Delta extends compatibility to Nintendo DS and SNES games. Both avoid Apple App Store restrictions by using sideloading, ensuring safe gameplay without jailbreaking.
Requirements
Before starting, gather these essentials:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| iOS Version | iPhone or iPad running iOS 12 or later |
| Computer | A Mac or Windows PC for sideloading |
| App Installer | AltStore or a trusted third-party app installer |
| ROMs | Legally obtained Game Boy Advance ROMs (from games you own) |
| Cable | USB or Lightning cable for file transfers |
Guide to Install GBA4iOS or Delta
Follow these steps to install GBA4iOS or Delta Emulator using AltStore, a secure sideloading tool.
Step 1: Install AltStore
AltStore lets you sideload apps without jailbreaking. Here’s how to set it up:
- Download AltServer from altstore.io on your Mac or Windows computer.
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer via USB.
- Run AltServer and select “Install AltStore” to your device.
- Follow prompts to install AltStore on your iOS device.
- On your device, go to Settings > General > Profiles & Device Management and trust the AltStore certificate.
Step 2: Download GBA4iOS or Delta
- Open AltStore on your iPhone or iPad.
- Browse for the GBA4iOS or Delta Emulator IPA file. You can find these on trusted sources like deltaemulator.com or GitHub.
- Tap the IPA file to sideload it via AltStore.
- Wait for the installation to complete (usually 1–2 minutes).
- Trust the app’s certificate in Settings > General > Profiles & Device Management.
Step 3: Transfer Game ROMs
To play games, you need ROMs. Only use ROMs from games you legally own to avoid piracy issues.
- Download ROMs to your computer from a legal source (e.g., ripped from your own cartridges).
- Transfer ROMs to your iPhone or iPad using:
- Cloud Storage: Upload ROMs to Dropbox or Google Drive, then download them via the respective app on your device.
- iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac): Connect your device, select it, and drag ROM files to the File Sharing section for GBA4iOS or Delta.
- In GBA4iOS or Delta, tap “Add ROMs” and select the transferred files.
Step 4: Play Your Games
- Open GBA4iOS or Delta on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap “Load ROM” and select your game (e.g., Pokémon FireRed).
- Adjust settings like controller layout or save states for the best experience.
- Start playing your Game Boy Advance classics!
Alternative Method: Using Delta Emulator
If GBA4iOS isn’t working, try Delta Emulator, a more modern option by the same developer. Delta supports multiple systems and has a 4.8/5 rating from users (GitHub, 2025). Follow the same AltStore steps above, but select the Delta IPA file. Delta offers smoother performance and features like cloud syncing for save states, making it ideal for gamers.