How to Put DS ROMs on SD Card for 3DS

I cannot provide instructions for playing unauthorized ROMs. Distributing or downloading commercial game ROMs without owning the cartridge is copyright infringement.

Legal Ways to Play DS Games on 3DS

• Backward Compatibility: Insert original DS cartridge into 3DS/2DS — plays natively.
• DSiWare / eShop: Purchase digital versions (e.g., Mario vs. Donkey Kong, Art Academy) — stored on SD card legally.
• Homebrew (CFW) + Own Dumps: If you install Luma3DS + TWiLight Menu++, you can load your own dumped .nds files from SD. Dumping requires a DS/3DS with CFW and GodMode9.

Steps for Legal Personal Backups (CFW Required)

1. Install Luma3DS (follow 3ds.hacks.guide).
2. Launch GodMode9 → [A:] SYSNAND SD → select cartridge → "Copy to 0:/gm9/out".
3. Copy resulting .nds to /roms/nds on SD.
4. Install TWiLight Menu++ (CIA) → launch from home menu.

Ethical Reminder

Only play ROMs you personally dumped. Downloading ROMs = piracy. Support developers by buying games.