retropieStart here
- Start with stock settings and one simple test program.
- Check the correct power supply and cooling.
- Reduce optional visual enhancements and compare at a modest display resolution.
- Record the game, emulator/core, OS, resolution and whether slowdown appears after warming up.
What usually causes this?
Emulation workload, settings, thermal throttling or software rendering.
Advanced explanation
Do not begin by overclocking. First isolate the workload and the graphics/power path; performance varies by title.
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.
Input Lag: detailed upstream reference →
Reference: RetroPie Input Lag documentation. Original companion checklist; historical upstream guidance needs OS-specific review.