Handheld game console

Introduction

The R36S handheld console offers multiple operating system options, each with its own strengths and quirks. After a year of testing different OS configurations, here's a comprehensive review of my experience with various operating systems on this device.

I've bought R36S handled console more that 1 year ago and didn't have time to play on it much. So no investigations were done.
The one thing I've noticed with PSX emulator was about missed saves on Memory Card after reset the game. But save states continue to work and MC1 was present there.
The tested game was Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2.
I've checked the emulators settings back then but didn't find any issues there. And throw the console on the highest shelf for the good times.

Installation Process

Installing operating systems on the R36S is straightforward using the standard Linux command:

sudo dd if=./os.img of=/dev/sda bs=4M status=progress

AmberElec boot logo

Initial Experience with Stock OS

My journey began with the stock operating system that came with the R36S. While functional, I encountered several issues:

  • PSX emulator had problems retaining Memory Card saves after game resets, though save states worked correctly (tested with Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2)
  • Arcade games (CPS1) maintained save states during gameplay but lost them after closing and reopening
  • Limited Wi-Fi adapter compatibility (tested with TP-Link TL-WN727N and Ralink MT7601U)

ArkOS wifi settings screenshot

Portmaster failed install on AmberElec

Then I've discovered Portmaster package which allows to run native linux games on this console. According to the documentation I should install Install.Full.PortMaster.sh file and everything should be fine.
https://amberelec.org/portmaster.html

But, it crashes with error (which are placed in the logs.zip file on sd card)

Uncompressing PortMaster Full Installer
Not enough space left in /tmp (474416 KB) to decompress /storage/roms/ports/Install.Full.PortMaster.sh (488940 KB)
Use --nodiskspace option to skip this check and proceed anyway
Consider setting TMPDIR to a directory with more free space.

The system disk was not full for sure!
So to debug this thing I need to connect WIFI adapter via OTG port. So I did. But AmberElec didnt recognize it. It was TP-Link TL-WN727N.
Good for me I didn't format the stock memory card which came with device. I've tried wifi adapter there - no luck.
Another Wi-Fi adapter I've tried was Ralink MT7601U with stock ArkOS (Distro Version: ArkOS 2.0 04232022) - it wasn't working too.

AmberElec OS

Pros:

  • Well-documented with comprehensive guides
  • Seamless installation process
  • Excellent game compatibility from SD card
  • Functional save states

Cons:

  • PortMaster installation issues due to temporary storage limitations
  • Limited Wi-Fi adapter support
  • Error encountered: "Not enough space left in /tmp (474416 KB)"

ArkOS (Version 2.0 02022025)

Pros:

  • Better Wi-Fi compatibility (TL-WN727N worked)
  • Regular updates

Cons:

  • Interface feels less polished
  • PortMaster compatibility issues with certain games
  • Requires internet connection for PortMaster game installations

ROCKNIX OS - The Superior Choice

Pros:

  • Seamless PortMaster integration
  • Reliable Wi-Fi support
  • Consistent save functionality
  • Polished user interface
  • Superior to both ArkOS and AmberElEC

R36S ROCKNIX boot screenshot

Technical Note:

Unlike other operating systems, ROCKNIX requires ROMs to be placed in /sd-card/roms rather than the root directory.

Conclusion

After testing multiple operating systems, ROCKNIX emerged as the clear winner, offering the best balance of functionality, reliability, and user experience. Its superior interface and consistent performance make it the recommended choice for R36S users.

R36S ROCKNIX ports screenshot

Resource Links

linux
games