Ready to supercharge your Arkos R36s retro console? The R36S is already a fantastic device, delivering thousands of classic games like Super Mario Bros. (NES), Street Fighter III (Capcom CPS3), and God of War: Chains of Olympus (PSP) for just $30–$90. But installing ArkOS v2.0, a custom Linux-based firmware, takes it to another level, boosting performance, refining the interface, and enhancing compatibility across systems from Game Boy to Dreamcast. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the installation process, from preparing your microSD card to playing Final Fantasy VII (PlayStation) with an optimized experience. Whether you’re a retro newbie or a seasoned emulator enthusiast, let’s unlock the full potential of your R36S and dive into nostalgia like never before!
Why Install Arkos R36s v2.0 on Your R36S?
Arkos R36s v2.0 isn’t just an update—it’s a game-changer for your R36S. Unlike the stock firmware, which can feel clunky or outdated, Arkos R36s delivers:
- Enhanced Performance: Optimizes emulators like mGBA for Pokémon Emerald (Game Boy Advance) or PPSSPP for Crisis Core (PSP), minimizing lag.
- Sleek Interface: Its EmulationStation frontend organizes systems like SNES, Neo Geo, and Nintendo DS into a clean, visually appealing menu.
- Broad Compatibility: Supports over 20 platforms, from Capcom CPS1 (Final Fight), CPS2 (Marvel vs. Capcom), and MAME (Pac-Man) to Dreamcast (Sonic Adventure).
- Easy Updates: Features a built-in update tool to keep your firmware fresh, perfect for seamless Metal Slug (Neo Geo) gameplay.
- Customization: Add legal ROMs for R-Type (PC Engine) or tweak settings for GoldenEye 007 (N64) with minimal effort.

Users on retrohandhelds.de praise ArkOS for making games like Super Metroid (SNES) run smoother, while posts on X highlight its “game-changing PSP emulation” in version 2.0. If you want to maximize your R36S’s retro prowess, installing ArkOS v2.0 is the way to go.

Requirements for Installation
Before diving in, gather these essentials to ensure a smooth installation:
Item | Details |
---|---|
R36S Console | Ensure it’s a genuine model, not a clone, for compatibility. |
MicroSD (TF1/OS) | Minimum 16GB, ideally 32GB–128GB (SanDisk/Samsung for reliability). |
Secondary MicroSD (Optional) | For ROMs in a dual-card setup (TF2/GAME), 64GB–256GB. |
Card Reader | To connect the microSD to your PC/Mac. |
Computer | Windows, Mac, or Linux with internet access. |
Software Tools | 7-Zip (Windows) or The Unarchiver (Mac), SD Formatter, Rufus/Win32DiskImager (Windows), ApplePiBaker (Mac). |
USB-C Charger | To keep the R36S powered during initial setup. |
Critical Note: Avoid using the microSD card included with the R36S—it’s often low-quality and prone to corruption, especially for demanding games like Street Fighter III (Capcom CPS3) or Shenmue (Dreamcast). Invest in a reputable brand like SanDisk or Samsung to prevent data loss.
Step-by-Step: Installing Arkos R36s v2.0 on Your R36S
Follow these steps carefully to install Arkos R36s v2.0 and start enjoying Chrono Trigger (SNES) or Metal Gear Solid (PlayStation) with a polished setup. Even if you’re new to flashing firmware, this guide is beginner-friendly.
1. Download the Necessary Files
- ArkOS Image: Visit the official Arkos R36s GitHub or the community repository for R36S (github.com/AeolusUX/ArkOS-R3XS). Download the R36S-specific image or the RG351MP version, which is compatible. The file will be in .xz format (~8GB after extraction).
- DTB File (Optional): Some R36S units require a specific DTB file (rk3326-rg351mp-linux.dtb) for the display. Grab it from the AeolusUX repository if your console has an updated screen (Panel 1–4).
- Tools: Install 7-Zip (Windows) or The Unarchiver (Mac) to extract the .xz file, SD Formatter for card preparation, and Rufus (Windows) or ApplePiBaker (Mac) for flashing the image.
Tip: Opt for the AeolusUX community image for R36S if you want a pre-tuned setup, especially for games like Pokémon Black (Nintendo DS) or Sonic Chaos (Game Gear).

2. Prepare the MicroSD Card
- Format the Card: Insert the microSD (16GB–128GB) into your card reader. Open SD Formatter (sdcard.org), select the card, choose “Quick Format,” and click “Format.” This wipes all data, so back up anything important first.
- Extract the Image: Use 7-Zip or The Unarchiver to decompress the .xz file. You’ll get a .img file (~8GB) ready for flashing.
Warning: Formatting erases everything on the microSD. Ensure you’ve saved any ROMs for Tetris (Game Boy) or Super Mario 64 (N64) elsewhere.
3. Flash the Arkos R36s Image
- Windows:
- Launch Rufus or Win32DiskImager.
- Select the microSD as the target device.
- Load the ArkOS .img file.
- Click “Write” or “Start” and wait (~10–15 minutes, depending on card speed).
- Mac:
- Open ApplePiBaker.
- Choose the microSD and the .img file.
- Confirm and wait for the flashing to complete.
Critical Note: Avoid Balena Etcher, as users on retrohandhelds.de report issues with R36S compatibility. Rufus or Win32DiskImager are safer bets.

4. Configure the DTB File (If Needed)
Some newer R36S units have updated displays (Panel 1–4), requiring a specific DTB file:
- After flashing, eject and reinsert the microSD into your PC/Mac.
- Open the “BOOT” partition on the microSD.
- Back up the original DTB file (rk3326-rg351mp-linux.dtb) to your computer.
- Download the correct DTB for your screen from github.com/AeolusUX/R36S-DTB (Panel 1–4 or V4 60Hz).
- Replace the DTB in the “BOOT” partition with the downloaded one.
Tip: Unsure about your screen type? Use the tool at github.com/AeolusUX/ArkOS-R3XS to identify it, especially if you kept the original microSD. A wrong DTB may cause a black screen, but you can fix it by trying another file.

5. Insert the MicroSD and Boot
- Place the flashed microSD in the TF1/OS slot of the R36S (usually on the right side).
- Remove any card from the TF2/GAME slot to avoid conflicts.
- Power on the console by holding the power button.
- Wait ~2–3 minutes as ArkOS initializes and resizes partitions. You’ll see the ArkOS logo, followed by the EmulationStation menu.
Note: If it doesn’t boot or shows a black screen, double-check the DTB file or reflash the microSD. Ensure the console is charged to prevent interruptions.
6. Initial Setup
Once in the ArkOS menu:
- Language and Time Zone: Set your preferred language (English available) and time zone.
- Controls: ArkOS will prompt you to map buttons. Follow the on-screen instructions to assign the D-pad, joysticks, and A/B/X/Y buttons, crucial for Street Fighter II (Capcom CPS2).
- Wi-Fi (Optional): If you have a USB-C Wi-Fi adapter, plug it in and configure your network for future updates.
7. Dual-Card Setup (Optional)
To separate the OS from ROMs (recommended for Crisis Core on PSP or Shenmue on Dreamcast):
- Insert a second microSD (64GB–256GB) into the TF2/GAME slot.
- In the ArkOS menu, go to Options > Advanced > Switch to SD2 for ROMs.
- Follow the prompts to format the second card and create ROM folders (NES, SNES, PSP, etc.).
- Enable Read from SD1 and SD2 for ROMs in Options > Advanced to use both cards.
Benefit: This setup lets you swap ROMs without touching the OS, perfect for large collections of Pokémon Crystal (Game Boy Color) or R-Type (PC Engine).
8. Add ROMs and Play
- Copy ROMs: Eject the microSD (or the second card if using dual setup), insert it into your PC/Mac, and transfer legal ROMs to the appropriate folders in the “EASYROMS” partition (e.g., “NES” for .nes, “PS1” for .iso). Examples:
- Super Mario Bros. (NES)
- Sonic the Hedgehog (Sega Mega Drive)
- Metal Slug (MAME)
- Final Fantasy VII (PlayStation)
- Launch Games: Reinsert the card(s), power on the R36S, and select a system in EmulationStation. Try Tetris (Game Boy) or King of Fighters ‘98 (Neo Geo) to confirm everything works.
Warning: Only use legal ROMs from games you own. Downloading ROMs online may violate copyright laws.
Benefits of Arkos R36s v2.0 for Your Favorite Games
ArkOS v2.0 transforms your R36S into a retro powerhouse. Here’s a table of supported platforms and how ArkOS enhances them:
Platform | Sample Games | Emulator | ArkOS v2.0 Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
NES | Super Mario Bros., Zelda | Nestopia | Fast save states, enhanced graphics filters. |
SNES | Super Metroid, Chrono Trigger | Snes9x | Smooth emulation, support for ROM hacks. |
Nintendo 64 | Super Mario 64, GoldenEye 007 | Mupen64Plus | Improved compatibility with manual tweaks. |
Nintendo DS | Pokémon Black, Mario Kart DS | Drastic | Optimized controls for single-screen play. |
Game Boy | Tetris, Pokémon Red | Gambatte | Enhanced colors, sharp scaling. |
Game Boy Color | Pokémon Crystal, Link’s Awakening DX | Gambatte | Precise emulation, customizable palettes. |
Game Boy Advance | Pokémon Emerald, Metroid: Zero Mission | mGBA | Stable performance, retro shaders. |
Sega Mega Drive | Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage | Genesis Plus GX | Clear audio, support for regional ROMs. |
Sega Game Gear | Sonic Chaos, Shinobi | Genesis Plus GX | Optimized scaling for IPS display. |
Sega Dreamcast | Sonic Adventure, Crazy Taxi | Flycast | Improved textures, adjustable performance. |
Neo Geo | Metal Slug, King of Fighters | Final Burn Neo | Fluid animations, full arcade support. |
Capcom CPS1 | Street Fighter II, Final Fight | Final Burn Alpha | Precise controls, no combo lag. |
Capcom CPS2 | Marvel vs. Capcom, Darkstalkers | Final Burn Alpha | Crisp sprites, full compatibility. |
Capcom CPS3 | Street Fighter III, JoJo’s Adventure | Final Burn Alpha | Stable emulation with proper DTB tweaks. |
MAME | Pac-Man, Metal Slug | MAME | Support for multiple arcade versions. |
PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 | R-Type, Bonk’s Adventure | Mednafen PCE | Enhanced graphics, CD game compatibility. |
PlayStation | Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid | PCSX-ReARMed | Fast loading, multi-disc support. |
PSP | God of War, Crisis Core | PPSSPP | Optimized textures, tunable performance. |
Note: N64 and PSP games may need tweaks in Mupen64Plus or PPSSPP for optimal performance, but ArkOS simplifies these adjustments.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a clear guide, hiccups can happen. Here are common problems and their fixes:
- Black Screen on Boot: Likely a mismatched DTB file. Reflash the microSD and try another DTB (Panel 1–4) from github.com/AeolusUX/R36S-DTB.
- ArkOS Won’t Start: Ensure the microSD is in the TF1/OS slot and no card is in TF2/GAME. Confirm the flashing process completed without errors.
- Games Don’t Show Up: Verify ROMs are in the correct folders (e.g., “GBA” for .gba). Use Options > Refresh Game List in EmulationStation.
- Poor PSP/N64 Performance: Tweak emulator settings (e.g., lower resolution in PPSSPP for Crisis Core). Check r/R36S for detailed guides.
- MicroSD Failure: Switch to a SanDisk/Samsung card. The stock R36S card is unreliable, per retrohandhelds.de.
Critical Perspective: Some online tutorials suggest flashing without verifying the DTB or using Balena Etcher, which can lead to boot failures. Always double-check your files’ source and stick to recommended tools like Rufus to avoid preventable errors.
Keeping ArkOS Updated
Once installed, ArkOS v2.0 offers an update feature:
- Connect a USB-C Wi-Fi adapter or use phone tethering.
- Navigate to Options > Update in the ArkOS menu.
- Download and install the latest patches for Metal Slug (MAME) or Pokémon Black (Nintendo DS).

Why Arkos R36s v2.0 Is a Game-Changer
Installing Arkos R36s v2.0 turns your R36S into a retro masterpiece. For the price of a pizza ($30–$90), you can enjoy Super Mario World (SNES), Sonic Adventure (Dreamcast), and Resident Evil (PlayStation) with a modern interface and enhanced performance. The community at r36s.co.uk notes that Arkos R36s “makes the R36S feel like a premium device,” while X users rave about its “hassle-free updates.”
Whether you’re reliving Tetris (Game Boy) on a coffee break, diving into R-Type (PC Engine) on a trip, or sharing Mario Kart DS (Nintendo DS) with friends, Arkos R36s v2.0 elevates every session. Follow this guide, flash your microSD, and get ready for a world of optimized nostalgia. Fire up your R36S and let the retro adventure begin!
Call to Action: Installed Arkos R36s v2.0 yet? Share your go-to game, like Street Fighter II (Capcom CPS2), in the comments. For extra help, check out retrohandhelds.de or join the r/R36S community.