Dumping Installed Titles

With the latest updates, Citra now supports DLCs and game updates. For instructions on extracting those, refer to the Dumping Updates and DLCs guide.

Using threeSD for Easy Dumping

threeSD is a specialized tool designed to simplify the process of transferring data from a 3DS to Citra. This tool efficiently extracts all necessary files in one step, eliminating the need for repeated dumping of games and system software.

However, if you add new games or DLCs, they will need to be dumped separately.

📌 Refer to the threeSD Quickstart Guide for help with:

• Importing installed titles, updates, and DLCs
• Transferring save data and extra data
• Extracting system files

Important: You still need a hacked 3DS with GodMode9 to retrieve essential encryption keys so threeSD can properly decrypt the data stored on your SD card.

Dumping Installed Titles with GodMode9

With the arrival of sighax and boot9strap, GodMode9 is the recommended method for backing up installed games and system apps.

Requirements

• The latest version of GodMode9
• A 3DS console with boot9strap installed
• An SD card with at least 8GB of free space (larger is better)
• An SD card reader (preferred) or wireless transfer capability

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up GodMode9

• Follow the official quick start guide to install and configure GodMode9 (using boot9strap is advised).
• Insert the SD card into your 3DS console.

2. Booting into GodMode9

• Power on your 3DS while holding (START) to access GodMode9.

3. Selecting Titles to Dump

• Press (HOME) and open Title Manager by selecting (A).
• Choose one of the following based on where the title is stored:
  • [A:] SD CARD – for user-installed/eShop titles
  • [1:] NAND/TWL – for system titles

4. Dumping the Selected Title

• Locate and select the game or app you want to extract.
• Choose Manage Title… and then select Dump CXI/NDS file.
• Wait for the process to complete, then press (A) to continue.

5. Transferring the Dumped File to Your PC

• Hold (R) + (START) to power off the 3DS.
• Remove the SD card and insert it into your computer.
• Navigate to the /gm9/out/ folder on your SD card.
• Find the dumped file, which may follow one of these formats:
  • Game Name (Product Code) (Region).cxi
  • Title ID (Product Code).cxi
• Copy the CXI file to a designated folder on your computer.

6. Running the Dumped Game in Citra

• Open Citra and either:
  • Click File > Load File to select and play the game directly.
  • Add a game directory by clicking the + icon or Add New Game Directory.

Troubleshooting: Dumping Issues

If you run into problems:
✅ Ensure you have the latest version of GodMode9 installed.
✅ If a game fails to dump correctly, try re-downloading it from the eShop and attempting the process again.