1. Home
  2. Emulators
  3. ZX Spectrum
  4. Spectaculator – ZX Spectrum Emulator

Spectaculator – ZX Spectrum Emulator

Updated:

Spectaculator is the highly acclaimed ZX Spectrum emulator that brings the classic 8-bit gaming experience to modern devices. Replicating accurately hardware and software environment of the original ZX Spectrum computers, Spectaculator allows users to enjoy a huge range of ZX Spectrum games. Spectaculator supports various Spectrum models, offers customizable controls, and includes features like save states and display adjustments.

Spectaculator Download

Select which version you require below to be taken to either the official website or app store for your device where you can download:

Windows
Android
apple [#173] Created with Sketch. iOS

Spectaculator Setup Instructions

This setup guide will walk you through the process of installing and using Spectaculator.

Step 1: Download Spectaculator

  • Use the download links above and select the version you with to download.
  • Either download Spectaculator or install via your mobile device app store.

Step 2: Install Spectaculator

  • On Windows, locate the downloaded .msi file and double-click it to start the installation process.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions:
    • Click “Next”.
    • Accept the terms in the license agreement and click “Next”.
    • Choose the installation location (default is C:\Program Files). Click “Browse” if you want to change the location.
    • Click “Next” and then “Install”.
  • Wait for the installation to complete.
  • Ensure “Launch Spectaculator” is checked, then click “Finish”.

Step 3: Launch Spectaculator

  • Open Spectaculator.
  • Choose the “Try it” option for the 30-day trial if you haven’t purchased it yet.

Step 4: Load a Game

  • Go to the “File” menu and select “Open”.
  • Spectaculator comes with two pre-loaded games. Double-click on one (e.g., Dynamite Dan) to load it.

Step 5: Configure Controls

  • If you prefer using a joystick or controller, go to “Control” in the menu.
  • Select “Keyboard and Joystick” and choose “Kempston Joystick”.
  • Ensure your controller is connected and recognized by the emulator.

Step 6: Adjust Display Settings

  • To remove scan lines, go to “View” and uncheck “Scan Lines”.
  • To switch to black and white display, go to “View” and check “Black and White”.
  • You can also change the Spectrum model from the “View” menu to various models (e.g., ZX Spectrum +3).

Step 7: Play Custom Games

  • Download Spectrum games from websites like Itch.io or World of Spectrum.
  • Ensure the game file is in a supported format (e.g., .tap or .tzx).
  • In Spectaculator, go to “File” > “Open”, and locate your downloaded game file.
  • Double-click the game file to load and play it.

Step 8: Explore Additional Features

  • Visit the “View” menu to explore other display options and settings.
  • Use the “File” menu to save and load game states.
  • Check out the “Control” menu to configure other input options.

Step 9: Download Additional Games

  • Itch.io: Search for “ZX Spectrum” to find new and indie games.
  • World of Spectrum: Offers a vast archive of classic and modern Spectrum games.