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Troubleshooting

A game returns straight to the menu

Selecting a game briefly changes the screen, then returns without playing.

Start here

  1. Identify which emulator/core was selected for this game.
  2. Check that emulator’s required file format and BIOS requirements.
  3. Try a rights-cleared test program known to suit that emulator.
  4. Read the latest launch log and keep the exact error in your report.
What usually causes this?

Incompatible file format, missing firmware, permissions or an emulator error.

Advanced explanation

A successful frontend launch only proves that the menu started. The launched emulator has its own dependencies and configuration.

Still stuck?

Record what changed after each check. Include your exact board, image, emulator and error when asking for help. These are diagnostic starting points, not guaranteed fixes for every OS.

Runcommand: detailed upstream reference →

Reference: RetroPie Runcommand documentation. Original companion checklist; historical upstream guidance needs OS-specific review.