Are you looking to record or stream some of the classic games that were released on the Nintendo 3DS? Back when the 3DS was released in 2011 Youtube was only just getting started and streaming was only a blip on the radar. Due to this you may be wondering what the easiest way to record your 3DS is. Let’s jump in and take a look.
Ways To Record Nintendo 3DS Gameplay
- Using A Capture Card
- Without A Capture Card Using A Phone
- Using An Emulator to Play 3DS Games & Record in OBS
Method 1: Using A Capture Card To Record Nintendo 3DS
Unfortunately the Nintendo 3DS does not have an HDMI out so we cannot use traditional capture such as an Elgato. You will need to purchase a capture card specific to the Nintendo 3DS.
Step 1: Purchase A Capture Card
Currently we can only find one company that produces capture cards for the Nintendo 3DS called Merki. Here you will be able to purchase a card for your specific 3DS console. Usually these capture cards require a modification to your console. You can either send your console to the company or do it yourself.
Your console will then have a connection to connect your 3DS to your computer.
Step 2: Install The Capture Software For Nintendo 3DS
When you receive your capture card or modified console it will also come with software that allows your computer to receive video and sound from your console. Install this software on your computer and connect your 3DS using the Mini USB port. You should then see your game image on your computer.
Step 3: Open Your Broadcast Software (OBS/Streamlabs)
If you’re a streamer you should have some sort of streaming software on your computer such as OBS, Streamlabs or XSplit. Once you have opened your broadcast software you will need to add a new source to capture the video from your 3DS Capture software.
Go to Sources –> Add Source –> Window Capture –> Select the 3DS Capture Software
You can then adjust this in your scene and crop the window to your liking to display the game from your 3DS on stream.
Step 4: Record or Stream Your Gameplay
You can now go ahead and stream your game live to your audience or record gameplay to make Youtube videos of your favourite Nintendo 3DS games.
Method 2: Record 3DS Gameplay Without a Capture Card (Record With Your Phone)
This method involves using your phone to record your gameplay. This brings me way back to the early days of youtube and recording my screen with my ipod touch.
Anyway you will want to get a tripod or clamp to hold your phone in a position to record your 3DS while playing.
The video below has a good setup of how to record your Nintendo 3DS with your phone.
Surprisingly the quality is actually really good using this method.
Step 1: Attach A Clamp Or Tripod to Your Desk
Attach your clamp or tripod to your desk and clamp your phone into the clamp.
Step 2: Position Your Nintendo 3DS In Frame
Position your Nintendo 3DS in a comfortable position for you to play games as well as framing the game correctly in your camera. Make sure your camera is covering the full screen and is focused on the game.
Step 3: Record Your Gameplay
That’s it! Once your phone is in position just hit record on your phone and your gameplay will start to record.
Just make sure that you have enough storage on your phone for a long gaming session. If you don’t your recording may cut off early without you realising. Once you have finished you can then upload your footage to your computer ready to edit.
Method 3: Use An Emulator To Play Your Favourite Games
Disclaimer: It is legal to download and use an emulator however downloading or sharing ROMs that you do not own is illegal. Use emulators at your own risk.
If you have ROMs of your games you could play them on an emulator and then record that footage using a streaming software such as OBS or Streamlabs.
Step 1: Open Your Game In An Emulator
Open the 3DS game you want to play in an emulator on your computer. You will now be able to play the game you want on your computer without physically using your 3DS.
Step 2: Open Your Broadcasting Software
In your broadcasting software add a new window capture source to your scene. IN OBS follow these steps:
Go to Sources –> Add Source –> Window Capture –> Select the Emulator
You will now be able to see your game in your OBS. You can now play on the emulator while streaming or recording your gameplay.
Wrapping Up
You should now be able to record or stream your gameplay from your Nintendo 3DS. Enjoy the Nostalgia of gaming on an old console and sharing that experience with your audience.
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