Graphically, 1.2.1 is a mixed bag compared to the absolute bleeding-edge builds. It supports Vulkan and OpenGL, but the Vulkan implementation here is slightly older than what is currently available in the official master branch.
In the main menu, tap the icon (gear), then Graphics Settings . Under "General", you'll see a "Backend" setting. Choose: dolphin for handheld 1.2.1
Vulkan is generally recommended for better performance on Android, though OpenGL may be more compatible with certain titles. Graphically, 1
: Connect your physical controller before opening the app. Navigate to GameCube Input -> Standard Controller and map your buttons manually [2, 9]. Under "General", you'll see a "Backend" setting
Setting up 1.2.1 is straightforward but requires sideloading as it is not available on the official Google Play Store. Dolphin Emulator GameCube/Wii Android Setup Guide
The core Dolphin Emulator is an open-source project that allows players to enjoy GameCube and Wii games on modern platforms, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and Android. It’s one of the oldest and most advanced emulators available, supporting a wide range of titles with numerous enhancements.