First core and controller setup

This starter guide covers the first RetroArch launch. The official Libretro documentation has platform-specific installation details.

Install and choose a core

1. Download RetroArch from its official website and install the build for your system.
2. Open Online Updater, then Core Downloader, and install one core for a system you use.
3. Use Load Core to select it. Open Information, then Core Information to review required firmware and supported content before loading a game.
4. Use Load Content to open a game file you own and confirm that it starts correctly.

Set up a controller

Connect the controller before launch. In Settings → Input, check the port assignment and hotkeys. Save the configuration after testing navigation, launch, and exit. The official input guide explains remapping and per-core overrides.