This page is meant to be the main starting point for anyone using Citron. If you’re using the emulator for the first time or you’ve already been using it and want to dig into deeper features, you should find what you need here. It provides everything from installation to controller tweaks to developer-level tools like DualSense integration.
Citron itself is built around speed and simplicity. It doesn’t try to overload you with menus or complicated setup steps, but it still gives you a lot of control once you’re comfortable with it. The sections below walk through the essentials in plain terms, so you don’t have to guess what something does.
Getting Started
Citron is pretty forgiving when it comes to setup, but it still helps to check your system requirements first and make sure you’re running the latest build. New updates usually bring stability fixes and better compatibility, so starting with an older version can cause problems you don’t actually need to deal with.
Once you know your system is good to go, installation is usually quick.
Installing Citron (Windows, Linux, macOS, Android)
No matter which platform you’re on, the process is mostly straightforward.
- Windows: You can go with the installer if you want everything placed automatically, or use the portable version if you like keeping apps self-contained.
- Linux: AppImage is the easiest route for most users, but distro packages are usually available too if you prefer native installs.
- macOS: Native builds are available, and you may need to allow permissions the first time you launch it, standard macOS behavior.
- Android: The mobile version is tuned for touch controls but still works well with external controllers if you want a console-style feel.
Each platform guide usually covers where to download, what to expect on first launch, and quick fixes for common startup problems.
Controller Setup
Citron works with pretty much everything like keyboard, Xbox controllers, PlayStation controllers, and most third-party gamepads.
You can change button layouts however you like, adjust stick sensitivity, tune triggers, or enable motion controls if your controller supports it. Profiles are useful too, especially if you switch between games that need different layouts.
Once everything is dialed in, input delay is usually very low, which makes gameplay feel close to real hardware on both PC and mobile.
Hotkeys and Shortcuts
There are quite a few shortcuts built in, and they’re worth learning if you use Citron regularly.
You’ll find shortcuts for things like pausing the emulator, toggling fullscreen, adjusting speed, saving or loading states, and taking screenshots or recordings. Some actions can even be triggered directly from controller combinations.
It’s not mandatory to memorize them, but they make testing and general use a lot smoother once they become muscle memory.
DualSense API Support (Advanced)
If you’re into modding or development, Citron exposes DualSense features through APIs.
That means you can experiment with adaptive trigger resistance, change LED behavior, or build feedback systems that react to gameplay events. It opens up some creative possibilities, especially for custom builds or experimental projects.
The documentation explains how these hooks work and where to use them safely without breaking compatibility.
Legal and Responsible Use
Citron is meant for legal homebrew and personal software testing. It doesn’t include games, firmware, or keys, and it’s up to users to obtain any required files legally.
Anything related to piracy isn’t supported or documented. Keeping things clean legally helps the project stay public and actively developed.