3DS:RetroArch

RetroArch

Developer(s)	Libretro
Console	Nintendo 3DS
Version	1.15.0 (March 11, 2023 (2023-03-11))
Links
Website	retroarch.com
GitHub	libretro/RetroArch

RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, & more. It can emulate up to SEGA Genesis & SEGA CD on the Old 3DS/2DS, and up to PlayStation 1 on New 3DS/2DS.

Most standalone emulators are better than retroarch in terms of performance, if you would like to see a list of recommended emulators then see the Emulators page.

Installation

What you need

• RetroArch_cia.7z (direct download)
• The latest release of 7-Zip

Section I - Prep Work

1. Power off your console
2. Insert your SD card into your computer
3. Extract the RetroArch_cia.7z with 7-Zip
4. Move the retroarch & cia folders onto the root of your SD card
5. Reinsert your SD card into your console
6. Power on your console

Section II - Installation

1. Launch FBI from your HOME Menu
2. Navigate to SD -> retroarch -> cores
3. Scroll down and press A on the core you want to install, and select Install CIA
   • As there are over 80 cores, and as these cores show up as titles on your HOME Menu, it is recommended to only install the cores you want to use

Section III - Core Optimization

1. Navigate to sd:/retroarch/cores/
2. Select all the uninstalled cores and place them in a new folder at /Retroarch/Cores-Notused/

• Leave any installed cores in the cores folder, these are required for "Load Core" functionality
• If you want to use any of the uninstalled cores, move them from /Retroarch/Cores-Notused/ to /Retroarch/Cores/ and install them with FBI, or use the "Load Core" option within RetroArch

Section IV - Launching your ROM

1. Once your core(s) have finished installing, press Home
2. Press A on your newly installed core to unwrap it
3. Press A to open it
4. Wait for it to load, then -> Load Content -> sdmc:/ -> Go to wherever your ROM is located -> Press A to select your ROM -> Choose your core

• Be patient for your ROM to load, this can take a while depending on file size.

You should now be playing your game on RetroArch!

Resources

RetroArch Install Guide
PCSX ReARMed optimal configuration
PCSX ReARMed N3DS compatibility List