Dumping means copying a 3DS game you own into a file the emulator can read. You do it on your own console, so it stays legal. This guide covers what you need, how to dump cartridge games, how to dump installed titles, and how to move the files to Citra. It is part of our how to get games overview.
What does dumping a 3DS game mean?
Dumping means making a copy of a game you own as a file. You take a cartridge or a digital game from your 3DS and save it to an SD card. Citra then loads that file and plays it. The game never leaves your ownership. You are just moving your own copy to your PC or phone.
What you need before you start
A short list:
- A Nintendo 3DS you own, set up to run homebrew software.
- GodMode9, a free tool that does the dumping.
- An SD card and a card reader for your PC.
Setting up homebrew is a separate, one-time job. You do it once, then you can dump any game you own. Use the well-known community 3DS guide for that setup, then come back here.
How to dump a cartridge game
With homebrew ready, this is quick:
- Put the game cartridge in your 3DS.
- Boot into GodMode9.
- Open the game cartridge from the drive list.
- Choose the option to build a CIA, or to dump it as a
.3dsfile. - Wait for it to finish. The file saves to your SD card.
Larger games take longer, so give it a few minutes.
How to dump an installed or digital title
Digital games work a little differently:
- Boot into GodMode9.
- Find the installed title in the title list.
- Select it and choose to build a CIA.
- The
.ciafile saves to your SD card.
This covers eShop games and anything installed on the system.
Encrypted and decrypted dumps
A dumped game can be encrypted. Citra can still read it if you also add your system keys, which come from your own console. Without them, some games will not open. Our system files guide explains how to get those keys and fonts.
How to move your games to Citra
Once the file is on your SD card, move it to your device. Put the card in your PC, or transfer it to your phone. Then point Citra at the folder with your games. Our how to use Citra guide shows the loading step. This same file also works on other devices, so you dump once and use it anywhere.
Do these dumps work in Azahar?
Yes. Azahar reads the same .3ds and .cia files. Anything you dump for Citra works in Azahar without changes. See our Citra vs Azahar page for more.
Frequently asked questions
What tool do I use to dump 3DS games?
GodMode9 is the standard free tool. It dumps both cartridge and digital games.
Do I need custom firmware to dump games?
Yes. Your 3DS needs homebrew set up first. It is a one-time process.
What format do dumped games use?
Cartridge dumps are .3ds files, and installed titles become .cia files.
Is dumping 3DS games legal?
Dumping games you own, for your own use, is the accepted legal method. Downloading games you do not own is not.
Where do I put the dumped files?
Move them from your SD card to your device, then add the folder to Citra.