Paprium Finally Playable via Emulation: RetroArch Brings WaterMelon's Genesis Beat 'Em Up to More Gamers

Paprium Finally Playable via Emulation: RetroArch Brings WaterMelon's Genesis Beat 'Em Up to More Gamers For years, 'Paprium' has been known in the gaming community as one of the most elusive and contentious Sega Genesis games in recent memory.

Developed by WaterMelon, the belt-scrolling beat 'em up initially gained attention when it was announced for pre-order back in 2017.

Despite significant interest and two crowdfunding campaigns, the game's release has been mired in delays, production issues, and limited distribution, leaving countless backers without the product they paid for—and cementing Paprium as a case study in challenging game development. WaterMelon, the indie studio behind Paprium, is best known for its retro-focused titles and ambitious hardware efforts.

However, this project was marked by a protracted development cycle often characterized by communication gaps and logistical problems.

When Paprium eventually shipped, only a small number of physical carts reached consumers, sparking frustration among a sizable group of supporters who are yet to receive their copies nearly a decade after pledging support.

Paprium’s technical uniqueness further complicated matters; its use of alleged custom hardware made standard emulation nearly impossible, blocking fans and preservationists from accessing and experiencing the game. That roadblock has now been partially lifted.

A new custom Genesis Plus GX core for the widely-used RetroArch emulator has been developed, enabling enthusiasts to finally play Paprium through emulation, though this solution is currently limited to digital play and does not function on original Sega Genesis hardware via flash carts.

This development is a significant breakthrough for video game preservation and for the many supporters who have been waiting years to play the game. In a recent report from Time Extension, it was noted that demand for Paprium has far outstripped its limited supply, largely due to WaterMelon’s inability to manufacture and deliver a sufficient number of cartridges.

According to their coverage, this newly developed emulation core can be seen as a lifeline to those who have invested in Paprium and are still empty-handed.

One source close to the community commented that the emulator 'finally allows Paprium to reach a wider audience, overcoming both technical and distribution barriers that have plagued the title since its announcement.' While the topic of emulating modern games often raises ethical questions—since most emulator activity targets games no longer available for purchase—in Paprium's case, the context is unique.

With WaterMelon yet to fulfill the promises made during two separate crowdfunding campaigns, many in the retro gaming community believe that access through emulation is the only practical option for backers and fans. Paprium’s journey from an ambitious new title to a cult phenomenon with a controversial release history highlights the importance of game preservation and community-driven solutions.

As of now, Paprium remains unavailable through official digital storefronts such as the Nintendo Switch eShop, and there is no updated timeline for wider physical distribution.

For the time being, emulation via RetroArch and the new Genesis Plus GX core offers the best—and perhaps only—opportunity for most gamers to finally experience what was promised years ago.

Sega Genesis Sega Genesis Paprium WaterMelon Genesis Plus GX RetroArch Time Extension