You've got your R36S, played through the pre-installed games, and now want to add your own. Maybe a specific title is missing from the collection, or you want to organize your library your way. Adding games to the R36S is surprisingly easy once you understand the folder structure.
What You'll Need
- Your R36S (powered off)
- A computer (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
- An SD card reader
- ROM files for the games you want to add
- 10-30 minutes depending on number of games
Understanding the SD Card Configuration
The R36S has two Micro SD card slots:
- Slot 1 (TF1): Closest to the display. Holds the operating system. With stock firmware, also holds games.
- Slot 2 (TF2): Further from the display. For additional game storage. Optional but useful.
Step-by-Step: Adding Games
Step 1: Power Off and Remove SD Card
Always fully power off the R36S before removing the SD card. Hold power button for 3 seconds, select "Shut Down". Then gently push the SD card in to release it (push-push mechanism).
Step 2: Insert SD Card into Computer
Use your laptop's built-in card reader or a USB adapter. The card will appear as removable storage.
Step 3: Navigate to Game Folders
| Console | Folder (ArkOS) | ROM Format |
|---|---|---|
| NES | nes | .nes, .zip |
| SNES | snes | .sfc, .smc, .zip |
| Game Boy | gb | .gb, .zip |
| Game Boy Advance | gba | .gba, .zip |
| Sega Mega Drive | genesis | .md, .bin, .zip |
| PlayStation 1 | psx | .bin/.cue, .pbp, .chd |
| N64 | n64 | .n64, .z64, .v64 |
| PSP | psp | .iso, .cso |
Step 4: Copy ROM Files
Simply drag and drop ROM files into the correct folder. Some important notes:
- ZIP files are fine: Most emulators can read compressed ROM files directly.
- PS1 games: For .bin/.cue format, keep both files in the same folder. Better yet: use .chd or .pbp format.
- Subfolders are okay: Games can be organized in subfolders within each console directory.
Step 5: Safely Eject and Reinsert
Always use "Safely Remove" before taking the SD card out of your computer. Insert the card back into the R36S and power on.
Step 6: Refresh Game List
In ArkOS: Main menu, press Start, select "Refresh Game List". New games will appear under the corresponding console sections.
The R36S comes with 15,000+ pre-installed games. Adding your own favorites is easy.
PS1 Games: File Formats Explained
- .bin + .cue: Original dump format. Both files required. Without .cue, CD audio is missing.
- .pbp: Compressed format, single file, no .cue needed. Recommended.
- .chd: Excellent compression, single file. Also recommended.
Multi-Disc Games
For RPGs like Final Fantasy VII (3 discs): Create an .m3u file that lists all discs:
Final Fantasy VII (Disc 1).chd Final Fantasy VII (Disc 2).chd Final Fantasy VII (Disc 3).chd
Troubleshooting
Games not appearing: Check that files are in the correct console folder in a supported format. Refresh game list in ArkOS.
Game starts black screen: Try a different ROM file. Check if the game requires a BIOS file.
PS1 game with no audio: For .bin format, the .cue file is probably missing. Convert to .chd or .pbp.
Build Your Retro Gaming Collection
15,000+ games pre-installed. Add as many as you want. One device, decades of gaming history.
Order R36S →Free Shipping • 30-Day Returns • 15,000+ Games Included
Ready to play 15,000+ retro games?
The R36S comes pre-loaded and ready to go. Ships free from our EU warehouse.
