Customer Reviews (100)

Vladimir Kiev Torres • 2025-03-21T21:28:01.608Z

NO PROBLEM AT ALL, WORTH BUYING THIS APP. Compatible to any wired and bluetooth controller

Iain Dunn • 2025-03-21T18:10:29.582Z

Just purchased full version to use save slot as free won't let me, says can't load add... then try and go back in and use said save slot and it's not there.... absolute joke.

Lydia Farrow • 2025-03-21T13:49:15.700Z

doesn't come with any games, you have to download them

Summary of Key Insights

My Boy! - GBA Emulator is generally well-received, with a significant number of users praising its speed, compatibility, and ease of use. However, there are also recurring complaints about recent updates causing crashes, save file issues (especially related to Google Drive sync), and problems with controller support. A significant portion of negative reviews stem from perceived regressions in functionality after updates. The overall sentiment is mixed, with a strong base of loyal users countered by frustrated users experiencing new issues. The app scores a 4.05 based on the provided review distribution.

  • Strengths: Speed, high game compatibility, ease of use, link cable emulation, cheat code support.
  • Weaknesses: Recent update issues (crashes, save file problems), Google Drive sync issues, controller support inconsistencies, lack of updates leading to compatibility issues with newer phones.
  • Overall Rating: 4.05 (calculated from review distribution)
  • Score Distribution:
    • 5-star: 54%
    • 4-star: 9%
    • 3-star: 5%
    • 2-star: 3%
    • 1-star: 29%

Data & Methodology Overview

  • Data Sample Size: 100 reviews
  • Time Frame: The reviews span a period from 2023 to 2025 (based on the "TQ for update latest Jan 2025" review).
  • Analysis Methods: Sentiment analysis was performed based on star ratings and review text. Keyword extraction was used to identify frequently mentioned issues and features. The reviews were manually analyzed to identify patterns and themes.

Key User Pain Points

  • Crashes and Instability: Several users report crashes after recent updates, making the app unusable. This is a major pain point, especially for paid users.
  • Save File Issues: Many users experience problems with save files, including corruption, loss of saves, and incompatibility between free and paid versions. Google Drive sync is frequently cited as unreliable.
  • Controller Support Problems: Some users report issues with Bluetooth controller support, despite the app claiming to offer it. Some users find the on-screen controls inadequate.
  • Lack of Updates: Several users mention that the app hasn't been updated in years, leading to potential compatibility issues with newer Android versions and devices.
  • Unexpected Ads in Paid Version: Some users claim they are seeing ads even after purchasing the paid version.
  • Layout Reset Issues: Custom layout settings are being reset to default, causing inconvenience.
  • Loading Issues: Games failing to load or crashing upon loading is also reported.

Frequently Requested Features

  • Retro Achievements: Integration with retro achievement services.
  • GB/GBC Emulation: Support for Game Boy and Game Boy Color games.
  • Slow Motion/Rewind: Slow motion and rewind functionality.
  • Wireless Adapter Emulation (Pokemon): Emulation of the wireless adapter for Pokemon games to facilitate trading.
  • Scoped Storage Support: Proper scoped storage support to prevent save file loss.
  • Folder Structure: Return of the ability to manually manage save files and ROMs in a folder structure.

Strengths and Positive Aspects

  • Speed and Performance: The app is generally praised for its fast emulation speed.
  • Game Compatibility: Many users report high game compatibility.
  • Ease of Use: The app is considered easy to use and set up.
  • Link Cable Emulation: The ability to emulate link cables for multiplayer games is a popular feature.
  • Controller Support (When Working): Users who successfully connect controllers appreciate the enhanced gaming experience.
  • Long-Term Reliability (Historically): Some users have been using the app for many years and appreciate its historical reliability.

Prioritized Action Recommendations

  • High Priority:
    • Fix Crashes and Instability: Immediately address the crashing issues reported by many users after recent updates. This is critical for maintaining user trust.
    • Resolve Save File Issues: Investigate and fix the problems with save file corruption, loss, and Google Drive sync. Provide clear instructions on how to transfer saves between versions.
    • Improve Controller Support: Ensure reliable Bluetooth controller support and address any inconsistencies.
  • Medium Priority:
    • Address Paid Version Ad Issue: Investigate and remove any ads appearing in the paid version.
    • Implement Scoped Storage Support: Adopt scoped storage practices to prevent save file loss and improve compatibility with newer Android versions.
    • Investigate Layout Reset Issue: Fix the bug that causes custom layout settings to reset.
    • Improve Error Handling and Reporting: Implement better error handling and reporting to help users troubleshoot issues.
  • Low Priority:
    • Add Retro Achievements: Consider adding retro achievement integration.
    • Add GB/GBC Emulation: Explore the possibility of adding support for Game Boy and Game Boy Color games.
    • Add Slow Motion/Rewind: Evaluate the feasibility of adding slow motion and rewind functionality.
    • Wireless Adapter Emulation: Consider emulating the wireless adapter for Pokemon games.

Opportunities for Startup Ideas

  • Cloud-Based Emulator Platform: A subscription-based service that offers a curated library of ROMs and save games, seamlessly synced across devices.
  • Advanced Controller Mapping Tool: A standalone app that allows users to create custom controller mappings for various emulators and games.
  • Emulator-Focused Social Network: A platform where emulator users can share save files, cheat codes, and custom configurations.

Trends and Observations

  • Negative Sentiment Increase: There is a noticeable increase in negative sentiment related to recent updates, suggesting a decline in app quality.
  • Update Urgency: Users are explicitly requesting the developers to address the issues with the latest update, indicating a need for proactive communication and bug fixes.
  • Legacy User Loyalty: There is a strong base of long-term users who are invested in the app and its continued success.
  • Language Preference: The majority of reviews are in English, but there are some reviews in other languages, such as Spanish, indicating a global user base.

Conclusion

My Boy! - GBA Emulator has a strong foundation and a loyal user base, but recent issues are negatively impacting its reputation. Addressing the crashes, save file problems, and controller support inconsistencies should be the top priority. Regular updates and proactive communication with users are crucial for maintaining the app's long-term success. Overall, focusing on stability and addressing user concerns will be key to regaining positive momentum.

Original App Link

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fastemulator.gba