Download Citra: Nintendo 3DS Emulator for Windows

Citra is an open-source Nintendo 3DS emulator for Windows.

Important: Citra's development stopped in March 2024 and it no longer receives official updates. Community-maintained forks exist, such as Azahar.

Requirements Citra on Windows

• 64-bit Windows.
• A graphics card with OpenGL 4.3 or Vulkan support.
• Games in 3DS, CCI, CXI or CIA format.
• Some encrypted games need the aes_keys.txt file in Citra's sysdata folder.

How to install it step by step

1. Download the file with the button on this page and extract it into its own folder.
2. Run citra-qt.exe.
3. Load a game with File > Load File, or add your games folder by double-clicking the empty list.
4. To install a CIA file use File > Install CIA.

Recommended settings

• Resolution: in Emulation > Configure > Graphics you can raise the internal resolution.
• Controls: set up keyboard or gamepad in Emulation > Configure > Controls.
• Screens: the View menu lets you change the layout of the two screens.

Common problems

• An encrypted game won't load: aes_keys.txt is missing or the file is damaged.
• Low performance: lower the internal resolution.
• Graphical glitches: try another graphics API.