Summary: Discover how to unleash the nostalgia of classic DOS games and old compilers with DOSBox-X on Linux. This comprehensive guide covers installation, configuration, and how to run vintage software, making it perfect for tech enthusiasts eager to relive the past. Learn the steps for installing DOSBox-X, using it effectively, and running iconic games like Prince of Persia and Wolfenstein 3D.
What is DOSBox-X?
DOSBox-X is an advanced version of the original DOSBox emulator, designed to recreate a full MS-DOS environment while incorporating modern features. It boasts enhanced hardware support, a customizable user interface, long filename support, and improved compatibility with various software.
This actively maintained emulator is compatible with multiple platforms, including Linux, Windows, and macOS, thanks to its use of the Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL).
Installing DOSBox-X in Linux
On Debian-based systems like Ubuntu and Linux Mint, DOSBox-X is usually not included in the default repositories. You can either download it from the official site or GitHub, or compile it from the source code.
To compile DOSBox-X in Ubuntu:
sudo apt install automake gcc g++ make libncurses-dev nasm libsdl-net1.2-dev libsdl2-net-dev libpcap-dev libslirp-dev fluidsynth libfluidsynth-dev libavdevice58 libavformat-dev libavcodec-dev libavcodec-extra libavcodec-extra58 libswscale-dev libfreetype-dev libxkbfile-dev libxrandr-dev wget tar -xvf dosbox-x-v2025.05.03.tar.gz cd dosbox-x-dosbox-x-v2025.05.03/ ./build-debug sudo make install
Compiling DOSBox-X in Fedora Workstation
To compile DOSBox-X in Fedora:
sudo dnf group install "C Development Tools and Libraries" sudo dnf install SDL_net-devel SDL2_net-devel libxkbfile-devel ncurses-devel libpcap-devel libslirp-devel libpng-devel fluidsynth-devel freetype-devel nasm wget tar -xvf dosbox-x-v2025.05.03.tar.gz cd dosbox-x-dosbox-x-v2025.05.03/ ./build-debug sudo make install
How to Use DOSBox-X in Linux
Once installed, launch DOSBox-X from the terminal, revealing a familiar DOS-like interface that starts at the Z:\ prompt.
To access a directory from your host system, mount your home directory as drive C::
mount C ~ C:
For automatic mounting on startup, edit the configuration file:
nano ~/.config/dosbox-x/dosbox-x.conf
Add the following lines:
mount C ~ C: cd TC
You can customize settings like full-screen mode, CPU cycles, and video configurations in this configuration file.
Installing Classic Tools and Games
Let’s explore how to install and run iconic DOS-era tools and games using DOSBox-X.
Installing Prince of Persia
First, download the Prince of Persia zip file and extract it to a folder in your home directory, such as ~/prince. Start the game with the following commands:
mount C ~ C: cd prince prince
Installing Wolfenstein 3D
Another classic, Wolfenstein 3D, defined the first-person shooter genre. To install:
Download Wolfenstein 3D, extract it to your home directory (for example, ~/wolf3d), then launch DOSBox-X and enter:
mount C ~ C: cd wolf3d install cd \WOLF3D wolf3d
Wrapping Up
DOSBox-X streamlines the process of running classic DOS applications, merging nostalgic gameplay with modern convenience. Whether you’re revisiting old games or utilizing legacy development tools, DOSBox-X stands as a powerful and flexible solution.
Embark on your DOS adventure today and share your experiences or questions!
FAQ
1. Is DOSBox-X free to use?
Yes, DOSBox-X is open-source software and completely free to use.
2. Can I run Windows applications with DOSBox-X?
No, DOSBox-X is specifically designed to emulate MS-DOS environments for DOS applications and games.
3. What other operating systems support DOSBox-X?
Along with Linux, DOSBox-X is available on Windows and macOS, providing a versatile platform for users.