How Do I Know Which R36S I Have & What Games Can It Play?

The R36S Handheld Game Console is one of the most popular retro gaming devices in the world. With dozens of clones and firmware variations, it’s no surprise that users often ask:

✅ “How do I know which R36S version I own?”
🎮 “What games can I play on it?”

Let’s break it down:

🔍 How Do I Know Which R36S I Have?

There are a few easy ways to check which version or firmware your R36S has:

1. Check the System Menu

  • Go to Settings → System Info

  • Look for the firmware version or menu version (e.g., “EmuELEC v4.3”, “OpenDinguX”, or “RetroArch”)

  • Some use custom skins, others use original firmware

2. Look at the TF Card

  • Remove the microSD card and plug it into your computer

  • Look for folders like:

    • ROMS, BIOS, emuelec, garlicos

  • This helps you identify the OS and emulator structure

3. Physical Clues

  • Screen resolution: 3.5" 640x480 = Original R36S

  • Extra features like HDMI output or dual OS suggest newer versions

  • Label/sticker inside the battery compartment may help

📝 Still unsure? Take a photo of the menu or SD structure and reach out to your console’s reseller.

🎮 What Games Can the R36S Play?

The R36S supports 20+ emulators, including:

  • NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance

  • Sega Genesis, Master System, Dreamcast

  • PlayStation 1 (PS1)

  • MAME / Arcade

  • PC Engine, Wonderswan, Neo Geo, and more

🕹️ Examples of Playable Games on R36S

Here are some fan-favorite classics you can enjoy on R36S:

🔹 Super Mario World (SNES)

  • Genre: Platformer

  • Why It’s Great: One of Nintendo’s most beloved platformers. Classic side-scrolling fun, tight controls, and Yoshi!

  • 🛒 Link to ROM Info

🔹 Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (PS1)

  • Genre: Action/Adventure

  • Why It’s Great: Gothic atmosphere, RPG elements, huge open-ended castle.

  • 🛒 Link to Game Info

🔹 Pokémon FireRed (GBA)

  • Genre: RPG

  • Why It’s Great: A remake of the original Pokémon Red with modern graphics and smoother gameplay.

  • 🛒 Game Info

🔹 Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Sega Genesis)

  • Genre: Platformer

  • Why It’s Great: Classic speed-based gameplay, 2-player mode, iconic music.

  • 🛒 Link to Game Info

🔹 Metal Slug X (Neo Geo / MAME)

  • Genre: Run-and-gun

  • Why It’s Great: Explosive action, cartoony violence, co-op fun.

  • 🛒 Game Info

💾 How Many Games Can R36S Hold?

With pre-installed microSD cards (usually 64GB or 128GB), R36S can hold:

  • ✅ 10,000 to 20,000+ games

  • You can also add your own ROMs and BIOS files via USB or SD card

⚠️ Reminder: Only download ROMs legally. If you don’t own the original game, downloading it may be illegal in your country.

✅ Where to Buy the R36S?

You can get an original R36S console with pre-installed games here:
👉 Buy R36S Now – GameLoopX

🧠 Final Thoughts

  • You can easily identify your R36S version via firmware, SD card content, or display features.

  • The R36S supports a massive library of retro games, from NES to PS1.

  • With thousands of titles to explore, it’s the ultimate on-the-go nostalgia machine.