Add your own compatible game files to an R36S by using a computer and a microSD card reader. Start by identifying which card stores your games; a two-card setup and a single-card setup need different handling. Only use content you own or are entitled to use.
Before you start: turn the handheld off, keep the original cards in their original roles, and back up accessible game and save files. Cancel any computer prompt to format an unfamiliar partition.
What you need
- Your R36S and its original card or cards
- A computer with a microSD card reader
- Compatible game files and enough free card space
- A separate location for a backup of games and saves
Identify the right card before copying files
Check the slot labels and the instructions supplied with your unit. In a two-card configuration, the system and game storage may use separate cards; a single-card configuration stores both on one card. Keep a note of which card came from each slot and return it to that same slot.
Copy accessible game and save folders to a separate drive before making changes. A copy of visible files is not a complete bootable-system backup. Replacing or flashing the system card requires the correct hardware-specific backup and recovery procedure. If you are unsure which card or partition you are viewing, stop and ask support rather than formatting it.
Transfer the files
- Shut down the console using its menu where available, then remove the identified game-storage card.
- Insert the card in the computer's card reader. Cancel any request to format a partition.
- Locate the folder for the original gaming system. Use the formats and folder names documented for your installed software.
- Copy the supported files, preserving any associated files needed by that format. Do not rename a file extension to make an unsupported file appear compatible.
- Safely eject the card, return it to its original slot, and start the console.
- Refresh or restart the game list using the options provided by your installed menu, then test the new entry.
Folder examples for compatible ArkOS builds
| System | Common folder | Check before copying |
|---|---|---|
| Game Boy Advance | gba |
The format accepted by your installed emulator. |
| Super Nintendo | snes |
Whether compressed files are supported by that emulator. |
| PlayStation | psx |
Required disc tracks, matching cue information and BIOS requirements. |
These are software-documentation examples, not a claim that all R36S units use identical firmware or that a specific title is included.
The new game is missing or will not start
- Missing from the list: check the active game card, correct folder, supported extension and available list-refresh options.
- Listed but will not launch: check required BIOS and related files. An arcade game may require a specific ROM-set version.
- Starts but runs poorly: compatibility and speed depend on the title, emulator, firmware and settings. A larger card does not improve the processor.
- No artwork: a working game may appear without cover art. Artwork and playable game files are separate.
Get help without risking the original card
Email support@retroorbitgames.com with your order number, system name, file extension and a photo of the message. Avoid sharing private account information or game-file downloads. If the console itself does not boot, use our R36S power troubleshooting guide.
For included-content and storage questions, read the R36S game list and compatibility guide. Explore the R36S product details or compare handheld consoles.
Software reference
Software reference: ArkOS maintainer emulator and file-format documentation. Firmware builds and hardware revisions vary; a project's compatibility information is not a guarantee of the software supplied with a particular console.