PlayStation 4 emulator ShadPS4 has reached a significant milestone in development with the special online server system called ShadNet. This new system allows users to access online features without relying on Sony’s PlayStation Network infrastructure.

This feature, which is currently in the early testing phase, only supports the score tracking function in the current version. The developer team states that this structure does not mean that it will now support large-scale online multiplayer games.

PSN independent online experience with ShadNet

Developed for ShadPS4, ShadNet aims to manage the emulator’s online capabilities through an independent server structure. Since the project works completely independently of Sony servers or PlayStation Network services, it does not require a PSN account or PS Plus subscription.

The first version of the system is offered in a very limited scope and at this stage only score tracking can be done. Although users can register for an account online, future updates are awaited to enter this information into the system via shadQtLauncher.

The ShadNet project is based on the RPCN system developed for the PS3 emulator RPCS3 and operates outside the official network. Following a similar line, ShadNet is now at the very beginning of its development process.

With this new system, the team has also launched a wiki page that will grow with user contribution. Game-specific configurations, performance tips and technical settings are shared on this platform.

v0.16.0 update and current status of the emulator

The ShadNet announcement came alongside v0.16.0, which has been described as the project’s biggest update to date. This update package; It brings important innovations such as the new configuration system, local multiplayer support and Big Picture Mode.

Thanks to local multiplayer support, users can play supported games with more than one person on the same device. Big Picture Mode, on the other hand, offers a more user-friendly interface for television and controller-focused setups.

On the technical side, work on the OpenAL audio infrastructure and HTTP subsystem forms the basis for improving emulation quality. These improvements help expand compatibility with PS4 audio functions and strengthen the technical infrastructure of online features.

ShadPS4 has made significant progress in running valuable titles such as Bloodborne, Red Dead Redemption and Dark Souls Remastered in the last year. However, the project has not yet reached the RPCS3 level, which has been developed for more than ten years and supports thousands of games.

The emulator’s own quick start guide emphasizes that many games are still not working or there may be technical difficulties in productions that appear playable. ShadPS4, whose development process is ongoing, continues its efforts to bring PS4 games to the PC environment.

Do you think ShadPS4 can reach a large library like RPCS3 in the future?