Where do you start with Citra?
Start by installing Citra, then add your games, then tune the settings. That order gets you playing fastest. If you are brand new, our how to use Citra guide walks the whole path from zero. You can download the emulator from our download page.
Install Citra on your device
Pick the guide for your system. Each one covers download, install and first launch:
Add your games
Citra needs your own 3DS games. You dump them from a console you own, then load them. Our how to get games guide explains the legal way. For the exact steps, see our dumping 3DS games guide. Some games also need extra files, covered in our system files guide.
Configure graphics and performance
This is where most of your tuning happens. You set the resolution, turn on the speed options, and fix lag. Our best settings guide walks through every graphics and performance option in order.
Set up your controls
Citra uses your keyboard by default, and you can remap anything or add a controller. Our controls guide lists the default layout and shows how to change it.
Manage your files and folders
Citra keeps your saves, mods and settings in one folder. Knowing where it is helps you back up and add files. Our user directory guide maps out every folder.
Add mods and custom textures
You can change how a game looks or plays. Texture packs upgrade the visuals, and mods change the content. See our custom textures guide for visuals. Our mods guide covers gameplay changes.
Use cheats
Citra has a built-in cheat menu for single-player codes. Our cheats guide shows how to add and enable them safely.
Play online
Citra supports online multiplayer through rooms. Our multiplayer guide covers joining, hosting and direct connections.
Fix problems
If something goes wrong, most issues have a quick fix. Our troubleshooting guide covers black screens, crashes, no sound and more.
Should you configure Citra or Azahar?
The steps here work for both. Azahar is the maintained continuation of Citra, and it shares the same layout. If you are unsure which to use, read is Citra still working, or compare them on our Citra vs Azahar page.
Frequently asked questions
How do I configure Citra?
Install it, add your games, then set your graphics and controls. Each step has its own guide linked above.
What settings should I change first?
Start with graphics. Set the resolution and turn on the speed options in our best settings guide.
Do I need to configure anything to play?
Only a little. Add your games and pick your controls, and you can play. The rest is optional tuning.
Where are my Citra files stored?
In the Citra user directory. Our user directory guide shows the exact folders.
Does this configuration apply to Azahar?
Yes. Azahar shares Citra’s layout, so every guide here applies to it too.