Nintendo Switch
Current-gen emulation with caveats.
Overview
The Nintendo Switch (2017) is Nintendo's current console. Emulation is possible but demanding and requires files dumped from a real Switch you own.
| Year | 2017 |
| Media | Cartridge / Digital |
| Steam Deck | Varies by game |
| BIOS Required | Yes (keys + firmware) |
Emulators
| Emulator | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ryujinx | Active | Good compatibility, ongoing development |
| Yuzu | Discontinued | Stopped March 2024, still usable |
| Suyu/Sudachi | Yuzu forks | Community continuations |
Setup
ROM Folder
roms/switch/
File Formats
.nsp- Digital format.xci- Cartridge dump.nsz/.xcz- Compressed versions
Required Files
Switch emulation requires files dumped from a real Switch console:
| File | Purpose |
|---|---|
prod.keys | Decryption keys for games |
title.keys | Title-specific keys (optional) |
| Firmware | System firmware for some games |
Legal Note
You must dump prod.keys and firmware from a Switch you own. These files are copyrighted.
Performance
Switch emulation is demanding on Steam Deck:
- Indie games: Often 60fps
- Nintendo first-party: 30-60fps depending on title
- Demanding games (TotK): May struggle