The Nintendo 3DS console has been very successful since its release in 2011, however, the brand has ceased production since 2020. Then it is quite possible that you will not find any more on the market. Admittedly, this is sad news, but in order to be able to continue living your 3DS experiences or to introduce them to your little nephews, opt for emulators. This option allows you to experience the various games that Nintendo offers on your computer even more intensely. Which emulator to choose for your PC? We have compiled a top 3 of the best PC emulators that have proven themselves. Details in the text.
What is an emulator?
To put it simply, the 3DS emulator is a software program that enables console content to be broadcast on another medium, such as a computer. In other words, it makes one operating system compatible with another. In our case, what we're interested in is one that adapts to a Mac or Windows.
Thanks to this system, you will once again have access to your old Nintendo DS games on a more efficient and more fashionable medium.
Which emulator to choose for your PC?
If you do a search on the internet to find the best emulator or simply the different types that exist, you will quickly be spoiled for choice. Therefore, we have established for you a very simple list of the best that exist in order to make your choice more quickly. However, it is important to note that some software is free while others are paid. Also, an emulator does not necessarily support all games, each program has its own characteristics.
The NeonDS
This program has the advantage of not taking up a lot of space in your computer's storage. Compatible with Windows XP, you can have it for free on download platforms. Although the last update of this version dates back to 2011, users testify that it works wonderfully. With the Neons Ds most games are supported and the interface is quite simple and intuitive. With a 3D display option, the graphics are crisp and the keyboard is customizable. However, it is reserved for Windows PCs, Mac OS and Linux are not supported.
The R4 3Ds
Quite a number of Nintendo games are supported by this emulator. Its plus? It mimics your console graphics and process. To begin, you must insert the cartridge and then choose the game files. With this emulator, you can customize the keys on your keyboard and your progress is directly visible from your PC. The R4 3DS is compatible with Windows PCs.
The Citra
The ease of use of this emulator has made it popular. Very few bugs, if any, it is software that is stable. Having improved 3D graphics with higher resolutions compared to Nintendo makes the experience more enjoyable. With support for 60 frames per second and a resolution that goes up to 400×200 will give you the feeling of playing on an Xbox 360 console. As a result, you experience a more immersive gaming experience. The Citra is an open source program, which allows it to constantly evolve and adapt better and better to new technologies.
In addition to this, it is possible to play on two screens. The Citra is compatible with Linux, Windows, Mac OS X and even Android.
For an emulator to work properly on your PC, it is important that one is suitable for the other. Therefore, make sure you download the correct emulator before installing it.
How to install the games on the PC?
To install the games on your computer, the principle is simple:
- Download the 3DS emulator that suits your computer;
- Install it;
- Then download the ROM of the game of your choice.
It is possible to have several games stored in your PC, however, in order not to overload it, prefer an external hard drive or a USB key instead. In order to be able to download your favorite games, you must insert the download code that was sent to you when you purchased your Nintendo DS.
An emulator then allows you to play on a larger screen, like your PC, and take your eyes off the console a bit. With technological progress, it is now possible for you to share your experiences and dazzle the youngest by displaying the game on the computer screen, but also to play it. The keyboard customization options will certainly be useful to put the odds on your side to win the game.
