FAQ
Short answers to the questions people ask before they install Empo.
Is Empo on the App Store?
No. Empo is pre-release. You sideload an .ipa file with AltStore, SideStore, or Sideloadly.
See Install Empo.
Why does the app stop after seven days?
Apple limits apps signed with a free developer account to seven days. Your sideloading tool refreshes the app before it expires, as long as the tool can reach your device. A paid Apple Developer account extends the period to one year. Your games and saves survive a refresh.
Which games does Empo run?
Games made with RPG Maker XP, VX, and VX Ace, games built on modern mkxp-z forks, such as Pokemon Essentials fangames, and games made with PSDK. See Requirements for the full list.
Does it run RPG Maker MV or MZ games?
No. Those engines run on JavaScript, not on Ruby. Empo has no support for them.
Does it run RPG Maker 2000 or 2003 games?
No. Use EasyRPG Player for those.
Do I need the RTP?
Empo cannot install a Run-Time Package. If a game asks for one, Empo warns you before the game starts. Import a version of the game that ships its own assets.
Can I play a game I packaged for JoiPlay?
Yes. Empo imports .jgp packages and reads their manifest. If a game expects JoiPlay behavior,
turn on JoiPlay compatibility in the settings for that game.
Where do I get games?
Empo ships no games and hosts no games. Import the games you own or the free fangames you download from their authors. Empo does not link to game downloads.
Why iOS 26?
Empo builds on the iOS 26 SDK and uses its controls throughout the interface. Older versions of iOS cannot run it.
Does it work on iPad?
Yes. Empo runs on iPhone and iPad with iOS 26 or newer. Each orientation keeps its own touch layout, and each game can keep its own.
Why can I play only one game per session?
The engine keeps one Ruby interpreter for the lifetime of the process, and the interpreter
cannot restart cleanly. After you quit a game, close Empo from the app switcher and open it
again. multi-session.md explains the constraint.
Do my saves survive an app update?
Yes. Saves live in the Files app under On My iPhone → Empo, not in the app binary. Do not delete the app before you update it. See Saves.
Does Empo collect any data?
No. There is no account, no server, no analytics, and no crash reporting. See the privacy policy.
A game does not work. What now?
Work through Troubleshooting. If that does not fix it, collect the logs and report the game on GitHub or Discord.