Error starting EmulationStation

[tronlegacy]

@BuZz I had the same error so let me try to elaborate:

Pi Model or other hardware: (B, B+, 2 B, 3, X86 PC etc..) B+
Power Supply used: (If using a Pi) 2.5A
RetroPie Version Used (3.6, 3.8.1, 4.01 etc.. - do not write latest): Latest on Github: https://github.com/RetroPie/RetroPie-Setup.git
Built From: (Pre made SD Image on RetroPie website, Berryboot, or on top of existing OS etc.. - please provide the filename of any image used)
USB Devices connected: N/A
Controller used: N/A
Error messages received: terminate called after throwing an instance of 'std::logic_error'
what(): basic_string::M_construct null not valid
Aborted
Log found in /dev/shm/runcommand.log (if relevant): ¯_(ツ)/¯
Guide used: (Mention if you followed a guide)
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/install-retropie-app-raspberry-pi/

I have tried using this guide twice, the first time I had issues getting the locale right so I started from scratch and still am having issues with the same error when I try to run emulationstation, the program looks like it starts to run, the screen goes black for a split second, and then I get this error message.

I have looked around the forum but have not found a solution.

[mitu]

NOTE: I've split your topic, because you're using a different system than the one reported.
Which image did you use to install the OS ? Is there any reason you're not using the RetroPie image instead of installing over Raspbian ?

[tronlegacy]

I believe it was 4.5.14

The reason I was trying to install Retropie as an app over installing as a stand-alone is that I wanted the flexibility to switch back and forth. I thought it was a clean option as opposed to running multiple Pi's or having multiple SD cards kicking around to keep track of.

edit: also thank you for splitting this out.