System-by-system performance ratings, game compatibility lists, and optimization tips for the R36S retro gaming handheld.
The R36S can emulate a wide range of retro gaming systems. Performance varies significantly depending on the hardware demands of each platform.
8-bit Consoles:
16-bit Consoles:
Arcade:
⭐ Perfect Rating: These systems run at full speed with no noticeable slowdowns. The R36S is ideal for players primarily interested in 8-bit and 16-bit era gaming.
PlayStation 1 – Games generally run smoothly at full speed. Reviewers report completing demanding titles like Final Fantasy VII, Crash Bandicoot, Tekken 3, and Metal Gear Solid without issues.
Dreamcast – Approximately 43% of the library is playable. Many popular titles run well, but heavier 3D games show slowdowns.
Playable Dreamcast Games:
PSP (PlayStation Portable) – Around 75% of tested games are playable. Performance varies greatly by title.
Playable PSP Games:
Challenging PSP Games:
Nintendo DS – Approximately 80% of tested games run well. The dual-screen layout can be awkward on a single display.
Nintendo 64 – Around 63% compatibility. Popular titles often work, but more than half the library may experience issues.
Playable N64 Games:
Problematic N64 Games:
Atomiswave/Naomi – Roughly 43% of games playable, similar to Dreamcast.
Sega Saturn – Only a handful of games are playable; most are too slow to enjoy.
GameCube, PlayStation 2, Nintendo 3DS, Wii – Not realistically playable due to hardware limitations. The RK3326 chip lacks the power for these sixth-generation and newer systems.
Maximize your R36S performance with these essential optimization strategies.
The stock firmware is often outdated. Updated ArkOS or Rocknix builds include performance improvements, better emulator cores, and bug fixes.
Different cores offer different performance profiles. For example:
Access per-game emulator selection by highlighting a game, pressing Start, navigating to "Edit This Game's Metadata," and changing the emulator.
For PlayStation 1, convert .BIN/.CUE disc images to .PBP or .CHD format. These compressed formats load faster and often improve compatibility.
Access RetroArch's Quick Menu during gameplay by pressing the hotkey combination (default: FN + X):
Default ArkOS hotkeys (customizable):
Dive deeper into specific optimization topics:
Complete guide to PlayStation 1 emulation settings, ROM formats, and performance tweaks
Read Guide →Master RetroArch settings, core overrides, shaders, and advanced features
Read Guide →Fix audio crackling, reduce latency, and optimize emulator audio settings
Read Guide →Install and configure custom firmware (ArkOS, Rocknix) for better performance
Read Guide →If you're experiencing performance issues not covered here, check our Troubleshooting Guide or reach out via email:
Email: abc@r36s.org