PS1 emulator DuckStation may drop Linux support over AUR issues and new license limits

DuckStation, a prominent PlayStation 1 emulator known for accuracy and performance, faces a potential end to its Linux support following sustained packaging disputes with Arch Linux users. The lead developer has removed the project's official PKGBUILD script after observing that many users continued to favor unofficial, frequently broken Arch User Repository packages, then reported resulting issues as upstream bugs. He noted that resolving these problems would require disclosing personal information to distributions, something he wishes to avoid.

These complications, combined with the developer's report that only 2% of DuckStation's users are on Linux and that he does not use Linux himself, have prompted explicit reconsideration of further Linux support. The situation is worsened by a licensing change made in late 2024, when DuckStation moved from the open-source GPLv3 to the more restrictive CC BY-NC-ND license, which forbids commercial use, derivative works, or repackaging without explicit approval. This change blocks community-led forks from sustaining Linux support unless the developer grants permission.

While reflecting on these challenges, the developer still expressed hope that Linux users might pursue a more constructive approach, leaving limited room for possible future reconciliation.