To make the aes_keys.txt file work in Citra, it must be placed in a specific folder named
While Citra AES keytxt work has opened up new possibilities for 3DS emulation, there are challenges and limitations to be aware of:
boot9strap + GodMode9 → copy slot0x11Key95.bin, slot0x25Key96.bin3DSFAT16Tool or ctrtool to generate keys.txt from dumped firm/OTP.Linux/Steam Deck: ~/.local/share/citra-emu/sysdata or home/.var/app/org.citra_emu.citra/data/citra-emu/sysdata macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/Citra/sysdata citra aes keystxt work
: If you are trying to play newer titles or DLC, you might need updated keys from a more recent system dump. The "Decrypted" Alternative
When loading an encrypted ROM:
aes_keys.txt for decrypted ROMs?A: No. If you have a decrypted ROM (typically .3ds or .cci that have been processed), Citra does not need the keys file. The aes_keys.txt is only for encrypted ROMs.
This shift coincided with changes in how the community handled 3DS files. A standard emerged called "Zero-Key Encryption" (or simply decrypted ROMs). Tools became available that allowed users to decrypt their ROMs on a PC using the keys, creating a decrypted file that did not need the aes_keys.txt file to run. Consequently, modern usage often bypasses the need for the file entirely if the user is using pre-decrypted ROMs. To make the aes_keys
Copy your aes_keys.txt into the sysdata folder identified in Step 1. Restart Citra.
We'd love to share a little bit about how we support longarm quilters through education and community. Updates typically go out on Wednesdays - we'd love to stay in touch with you!