Summer is definitely all about optimization at Recalbox. Following the release of version 10.0.8, which delivers optimal performance on the Raspberry Pi 5 2 GB — now matching the 4 GB model without compromise and becoming the recommended choice for Recalbox — optimization efforts have also focused on the emulators themselves. We're talking about systems that were previously extremely demanding, now running at a smooth 60 FPS.

Naomi 2 and Model 3 have been the main focus of the developers, and for good reason: with the release of the Recalbox JVS, the 3D arcade scene has been brought back into the spotlight. While the JVS standard debuted with the Naomi and later the Naomi 2, the Model 3 relied on proprietary connectors (neither JVS nor JAMMA). There's no doubt, however, that its legendary library will enjoy renewed attention thanks to its iconic 3D titles.

If these names don't immediately ring a bell, we're talking about arcade games featuring clean, fluid 3D graphics that were absolutely stunning for their time. On Naomi and Naomi 2, you'll find titles such as 18 Wheeler: American Pro Trucker, Jambo! Safari, Virtua Fighter 4, Beach Spikers, and Initial D. On Model 3, the lineup includes Daytona USA 2, Sega Rally 2, The Lost World: Jurassic Park, Scud Race, and more. This is far from an exhaustive list, but these are among the arcade games that defined the golden age of 3D arcade cabinets.

And naturally, 3D games with visuals this refined—especially fast-paced racing games—require significant processing power. Players who tried games like Scud Race or Daytona USA 2 on Model 3 may have noticed that the Raspberry Pi 5 could reach its limits during longer races, resulting in recurring slowdowns... Well, that's now a thing of the past.

With the 10.1-patron-1 update, Recalbox Patrons can now enjoy Naomi 2 and Model 3 without compromise: 99% of the games now run at a flawless 60 FPS. Seeing demanding titles like Initial D running at 60 FPS on a Raspberry Pi 5 is nothing short of impressive.

Rather than simply talking about the performance improvements, a video speaks for itself. Below, you'll find digitalLumberjack testing Naomi 2 and Model 3 games on an arcade cabinet powered by the Recalbox JVS (running on a Raspberry Pi 5), with footage captured directly from the cabinet.

As a reminder, version 10.1 will be released later as a stable update for everyone.

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