One of the best features of the R36 Ultra retro handheld console is the ability to save your game anytime and resume exactly where you left off. Whether you’re playing Pokémon, classic RPGs, or arcade games, the R36 Ultra gives you multiple reliable saving options.
This guide explains all ways to save files on the R36 Ultra, including the quick save shortcut.
Method 1: In-Game Saving (Original Game Save)
Many classic games support built-in saving, just like on the original consoles.
How to use in-game save:
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Play the game normally
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Reach a save point or open the game’s save menu
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Select Save
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Exit the game properly
✅ Best for games like Pokémon, Zelda, and Final Fantasy
⚠️ Do not power off the device while saving
Method 2: Save States (Instant Save Anytime)
Save States let you save at any moment, even if the game does not normally allow saving.
Save State shortcut (Quick Save)
While playing a game:
👉 Press SELECT + R1 at the same time
➡️ Your game will instantly save to the current save slot
Load State shortcut (Quick Load)
👉 Press SELECT + L1 at the same time
➡️ Your game will instantly load the last save state
✅ Fastest way to save
✅ Perfect for short gaming sessions
✅ Great for difficult levels or boss fights
Method 3: Save States Using the Menu
You can also save manually through the emulator menu.
How to save using the menu:
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Press the Function / Menu button
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Open the Emulator Menu
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Select Save State
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Choose a save slot
To load:
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Open the Emulator Menu
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Select Load State
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Choose a slot
Method 4: Auto Save & Resume (Proper Exit)
The R36 Ultra supports automatic save behavior when you exit games correctly.
Best practices:
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Exit games through the menu, not by forcing power off
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Never remove the SD card while the device is on
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Allow the system to fully load before shutting down
Improper shutdowns can cause lost save files or missing games.
Where Are Save Files Stored?
All save data is stored on the TF / Micro SD card included with your R36 Ultra.
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In-game saves → stored inside emulator folders
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Save states → stored per emulator and game
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Save files can be backed up by copying the SD card to a computer
💡 Tip: Regular SD card backups help protect your game progress.
Common Save Issues & Fixes
❌ My save files disappeared
Possible reasons:
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Device powered off during saving
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SD card connection issue
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Corrupted or low-quality SD card
Fix:
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Power off → reinsert SD card → restart
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Consider upgrading to a high-quality branded SD card
❌ Some games won’t save
Not all retro games support in-game saving.
👉 Use Save States (SELECT + R1) instead.
Pro Tips for Best Saving Experience
✔ Use Save State shortcut before exiting long sessions
✔ Never force shutdown while saving
✔ Keep at least one SD card backup
✔ Exit games properly through menus
Save Anytime. Play Anywhere. 🎮
With in-game saves, instant save state shortcuts, and reliable storage, the R36 Ultra makes retro gaming easy and stress-free. Save your progress anytime and enjoy classic games without starting over.
If you need help, our support team is always here for you.
