Dumping Updates and DLCS

If you want to use game updates or DLCs inside Citra, you must dump them directly from your Nintendo 3DS. These files allow Citra to load extra content such as new levels, characters, features, and bug fixes, just like on the real console.

There are two simple methods to dump updates and DLCs: threeSD (recommended) and GodMode9.

Option 1: threeSD (Recommended for Most Users)

threeSD makes the entire process easier because it can dump the installed titles, updates, DLCs, save data, extra data, and system files. All in one operation.

Just follow the threeSD Quickstart Guide to transfer everything.You still need a hacked 3DS with GodMode9 to extract your encryption keys. These keys allow threeSD to decrypt your SD card data.

Option 2: Dumping Updates & DLCs Using GodMode9

GodMode9 is the official and fully supported way to dump game updates and DLCs from a 3DS system.

Requirements

You’ll need the following:

  • Latest version of GodMode9
  • 3DS with boot9strap installed
  • SD card with enough free space (8GB recommended)
  • SD card reader or wireless transfer

Step-by-Step Instructions (GodMode9 Method)

Step 1: Prepare Your 3DS

  1. Install and set up GodMode9 using its quick start guide.
  2. Insert your SD card into your 3DS.
  3. Boot into GodMode9.

Step 2: Access Title Manager

  1. Press the HOME button inside GodMode9.
  2. Select Title Manager with the A button.
  3. Choose [A:] SD CARD since updates and DLCs are stored on the SD card.

Step 3: Find Your Update or DLC

Use the D-pad to navigate.You can move faster using Left/Right on the D-pad.

Look for these Title IDs:

  • Updates → Title ID starts with 0004000e
  • DLCs → Title ID starts with 0004008c

Step 4: Dump the Update/DLC

  1. Select the Update or DLC.
  2. Choose Manage Title…
  3. Select Build CIA (standard).
  4. Wait for the dump to finish, then press A to continue.

Step 5: Copy the CIA File to Your PC

  1. Power off your 3DS by holding R + START.
  2. Remove the SD card and insert it into your computer.
  3. Open the directory: /gm9/out/
  4. Find your dumped update/DLC file. It may be named like:- <Title Name> (<Product Code>) (<Region>).cia | <Title ID> (<Product Code>).cia
  5. Copy the CIA file to a folder on your PC.

Using Updates & DLCs in Citra

You can load your dumped CIA in two ways:

  • Open Citra → File > Load File → Select the CIA OR
  • Add the folder to your Game Directory

Citra will automatically install the update/DLC for that title.

Troubleshooting

1) Citra does not detect my DLCs

  • Make sure you are using the latest version of GodMode9.
  • Older versions could not dump partial DLC correctly.

2) Dumping failed or gave an error

Try the following:

  • Update GodMode9 to the latest version
  • Re-download/update the title from the eShop
  • Check SD card space