Retroarch Bios Cores
Install cores, find BIOS, build playlists, and apply shaders. Works on Android, Windows, Linux, and Steam.
Exactly where BIOS goes, how to install cores, scan content into playlists, and apply shaders — the clean way.
1) Install & Use the Core Downloader
- Open RetroArch → Online Updater → Core Downloader → pick cores you need.
- If Core Downloader is hidden (some package builds), enable it in Settings → Online Updater or install cores via your package manager.
2) BIOS: Location, Names & Hash
- Location: System/BIOS directory shown at Settings → Directory → System/BIOS.
- Correct Names & Hashes matter (per-core requirements listed on Libretro docs).
- You can change the System/BIOS directory under Settings → Directory if desired.
3) Playlists: Scan & Manual Add
- Go to Import Content → choose Scan Directory or Scan File to auto-add games recognized by databases.
- If nothing appears, update Core Info Files/Databases via Online Updater, then rescan (common fix).
- Manual Scan is available for edge cases; RetroArch also offers an Explore view for browsing playlists by metadata.
4) Shaders: Presets & Saving
- In-game, open the Quick Menu → Shaders → Load Shader Preset.
- Save as Global/Core/Content/Game preset to persist your look.
5) Common Fixes
Core Downloader missing
Enable it in Settings → Online Updater or install cores via your OS package manager if your build is restricted.
Scanning finds nothing
Update Core Info Files and Databases, then rescan. Consider enabling “scan without core match” when needed.
Where exactly is the BIOS folder?
See the path in Settings → Directory → System/BIOS. Move or set to a writable location (varies by platform).
6) Notes by Platform
- Linux distros: Some disable the downloader; install cores via package manager or enable the toggle.
- Steam (SteamOS/Windows): Core downloading works; see community/Steam guides if needed.