The R36S comes pre-configured with optimized emulator settings. But knowing the key shortcuts and per-platform settings unlocks the full potential of your device. This is iGC's complete emulator settings guide for GBA, SNES, PS1, and N64 on R36S.
Lab-Tested · Gamer-Verified · Expert-Curated by the iGC Team — www.handheldgameconsoles.games
🎮 GBA Settings — mGBA (Best Core)
Recommended core: mGBA (most accurate GBA emulation)
| Setting | Recommended Value | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Aspect Ratio | Core Provided (3:2) | Correct GBA ratio |
| Integer Scale | ON | Sharp pixels |
| Shaders | OFF (or lcd3x) | Battery saving |
| Audio Latency | 64ms | No audio lag |
| Save States | Slot 1 (default) | Menu+R1 anytime |
🎮 SNES Settings — Snes9x (Best Core)
Recommended core: Snes9x (best balance of accuracy and performance)
| Setting | Recommended Value | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Aspect Ratio | Core Provided (8:7) | Correct SNES ratio |
| Integer Scale | ON | Sharp pixels |
| Shaders | OFF | Best battery life |
| Audio Latency | 64ms | Clean audio |
| Rewind | OFF (saves battery) | Use save states instead |
🎮 PS1 Settings — PCSX ReARMed (Best Core)
Recommended core: PCSX ReARMed (best PS1 performance on R36S)
| Setting | Recommended Value | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3 | Correct PS1 ratio |
| Frameskip | 0 (OFF) | Smooth gameplay |
| Dithering | OFF | Cleaner image |
| Audio Latency | 128ms | Prevents crackling |
| ROM format | .pbp (compressed) | Saves storage space |
🎮 N64 Settings — Mupen64Plus (Best Core)
Recommended core: Mupen64Plus-Next (best N64 accuracy)
| Setting | Recommended Value | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 320x240 | Best performance |
| Frameskip | Auto (for heavy games) | Smooth on DK64 |
| Analog Deadzone | 0.15 | Eliminates drift |
| ROM format | .z64 | Best compatibility |
| Shaders | OFF | Better performance |
⚙️ RetroArch Global Settings — Apply to All Platforms
Menu + R1 to save. Menu + L1 to load. Use Slot 1 for quick saves. Use Slots 2-9 for milestone saves (before bosses, story branches).
Menu + R2 for 2x speed. Hold for continuous fast forward. Essential for Pokemon grinding, FF leveling, and text-heavy sections.
Settings → Video → Shaders. Keep OFF for best battery and performance. Try lcd3x for GBA if you want a screen filter effect.
Settings → Audio. Keep latency at 64ms for GBA/SNES. Increase to 128ms for PS1 if crackling occurs. Use headphones for best audio quality.
❓ FAQ
R36S uses mGBA for GBA emulation — the most accurate GBA emulator available. All GBA games run at 100% compatibility. Recommended settings: Aspect Ratio Core Provided (3:2), Integer Scale ON, Shaders OFF.
R36S uses PCSX ReARMed for PS1 emulation. All PS1 games run at 100% compatibility. Recommended settings: Aspect Ratio 4:3, Frameskip OFF, Dithering OFF, Audio Latency 128ms. Use .pbp format for multi-disc games.
Press Menu + R1 to save state on R36S. Press Menu + L1 to load state. Save states work on all platforms (GBA, SNES, PS1, N64). Use in-game saves for permanent progress, save states for quick saves before bosses.
Press and hold Menu + R2 for fast forward (2x speed) on R36S. Works on all platforms. Essential for Pokemon grinding, Final Fantasy leveling, and text-heavy sections. Release to return to normal speed.
R36S uses Mupen64Plus-Next for N64 emulation. 97% N64 compatibility. Recommended settings: Resolution 320x240, Analog Deadzone 0.15, Shaders OFF, ROM format .z64. Dual analog sticks map perfectly to N64 controls.
