Pokemon X/Y/ORAS on Citra – Settings, Performance & Fixes (2026)

ByRyan
Pokemon XYORAS on Citra - Settings, Performance & Fixes (2026)

Quick Answer:

Yes, Pokemon X, Y, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire run perfectly at 60 FPS on Citra in 2026. On a mid-range PC (GTX 1050 or similar), gameplay is smooth with no lag or stuttering, and graphics look much better at 3x–4x resolution. For best results, enable Hardware Shader and disable Audio Stretching if you hear crackling in ORAS. Minor issues like Lumiose City crashes can be avoided by saving before entering the area.

These Generation 6 Pokémon games are very stable on Citra and run at a smooth 60 FPS in battles, cities, and cutscenes. You can increase the resolution to 3x or 4x for sharper graphics without losing performance on a mid-range PC.

There are only small issues to watch for. In Pokemon X and Y, save before entering Lumiose City to avoid rare crashes. In Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, turn off Audio Stretching if you hear crackling sounds.

Why Gen 6 Pokémon Games Are Perfect on Citra?

Pokemon X, Pokémon Y, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire are some of the best games to play on Citra. These Gen 6 games run at a smooth and constant 60 FPS, which is even better than the real Nintendo 3DS that runs them at 30 FPS. The graphics also look much sharper when you increase the resolution.

They run so well because these games are well optimized for the 3DS, and Citra supports them very smoothly. Unlike Gen 7 games (Sun and Moon), Gen 6 does not need a very powerful PC. Even mid-range computers can run them without lag.

Key Benefits of Playing on Citra:

  • Constant 60 FPS for smoother gameplay than the real 3DS.
  • Sharper graphics at higher resolutions like 4x or more.
  • No screen tearing or stuttering during gameplay.
  • Save states let you save anytime you want.
  • Trading between games is possible with proper setup.
  • HD texture packs can improve graphics even more.

Best Settings for Pokémon X and Y (Stable 60 FPS Performance):

To get smooth and stable gameplay in Pokemon X and Pokémon Y on Citra, you need to use the correct settings. These settings are tested for constant 60 FPS with clear HD graphics on most mid-range and high-end PCs.

Graphics Settings:

Resolution Scale:

  • Set the resolution to 3x for smooth performance on mid-range PCs with 1080p monitors.
  • Use 4x or higher if you have a strong graphics card and a 1440p or 4K monitor.
  • Lower it to 2x only if your FPS drops below 60 during gameplay.

Graphics Options:

  • Enable Hardware Shader → Turn this ON because it improves graphics quality and keeps performance stable.
  • Enable Accurate Shader Multiplication → Turn this ON to fix shadow and lighting glitches that may appear in some areas.
  • Texture Filter → You can leave it on None for original look or use Anime4K for smoother textures.
  • VSync → Enable VSync to prevent screen tearing and make gameplay look smoother.

Audio Settings:

  • Audio Emulation → Set to HLE for faster performance.
  • Enable Audio Stretching → Turn this ON for smoother sound without crackling.
  • Volume → Keep at 100% and adjust inside the game if needed.

System Settings:

  • Region → Set to Auto or match your game’s region.
  • System Clock → Use System Clock so time-based events work correctly.
  • Enable CPU JIT → Turn this ON for much better speed and performance.

Pokémon X/Y Settings Table:

SettingRecommended Value
Resolution Scale3x–4x (2x if low-end PC)
Hardware ShaderEnabled
Accurate MultiplicationEnabled
Audio StretchingEnabled
VSyncEnabled
CPU JITEnabled

Using these settings will give you smooth 60 FPS gameplay with sharp graphics and stable audio throughout the entire game.

Best Settings for Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire (ORAS):

For Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire on Citra, most settings are the same as Pokémon X and Y. These games also run at a smooth 60 FPS with sharp HD graphics. However, there is one very important audio setting you must change to avoid sound problems.

Important Audio Fix for ORAS:

Audio Stretching:
Turn Audio Stretching OFF because in ORAS it can cause crackling sounds during battles and cutscenes.

Why disable it?
Unlike Pokémon X and Y, ORAS has a known issue where audio stretching creates distorted or crackling sound. Disabling it completely fixes this problem.

Extra Tip:
If you still hear very small crackling after turning it off, lower the audio volume in Citra settings to around 80–90%. This usually removes any remaining sound issues.

Graphics & System Settings (Same as X/Y):

  • Resolution Scale: Use 3x for smooth performance on mid-range PCs and 4x if your PC is stronger.
  • Enable Hardware Shader: Keep this ON because it improves graphics quality and keeps performance stable.
  • Enable Accurate Shader Multiplication: Turn this ON to fix shadow and lighting problems.
  • VSync: Enable this to stop screen tearing and make gameplay look smoother.
  • Enable CPU JIT: Keep this ON because it improves overall speed and helps maintain constant 60 FPS.

With these settings, Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire run smoothly from start to finish with stable 60 FPS and clear audio without crackling.

Common Issues & Fixes – Troubleshooting Guide:

Even though Citra runs Gen 6 Pokémon games very well, a few small problems can happen. Below are the most common issues and simple solutions explained in easy words.

Lumiose City Camera Bug (Pokémon X/Y)

Problem:

In Pokemon X and Pokémon Y, the game may freeze or crash when entering Lumiose City, especially near the center area. This bug also existed on the real 3DS version.

Solution:

• Always save your game before entering Lumiose City.
• Do not save while you are inside Lumiose City.
• If the game freezes, close Citra and load your save from before entering the city.
• Use the latest Canary build because it has partial improvements for this issue.

Audio Crackling (Pokémon ORAS)

Problem:

In Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, you may hear crackling or popping sounds during battles or cutscenes.

Solution:

• Disable Audio Stretching in Citra settings.
• If the sound still crackles, lower the volume to around 80–90%.
• Make sure Audio Emulation is set to HLE for better stability.

Save File Corruption

Problem:

Your save file can get corrupted if Citra crashes or if your PC shuts down while the game is saving.

Prevention & Solution:

• Back up your save files regularly to stay safe.
• Go to Citra → File → Open Citra Folder → sdmc → Nintendo 3DS to find your saves.
• Copy your save files to another folder or external drive once a week.
• Never close Citra while the game is saving.
• You can also use save states as an extra backup option.

Low FPS or Performance Problems

Problem:

The game runs below 60 FPS and feels slow or laggy during gameplay.

Solution:

• Lower the resolution scale, for example use 2x instead of 4x.
• Make sure CPU JIT is enabled in system settings.
• Close background apps like browsers or other heavy programs.
• Update your graphics drivers to the latest version.
• Try using the latest Canary build for better performance.

These fixes solve most common problems and help keep Pokémon games running smoothly at a stable 60 FPS.

Trading Between Games – Local Multiplayer Setup:

Yes, you can trade Pokémon between Pokemon X, Y, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire on Citra. You can even trade between different versions, like Pokémon X to Omega Ruby. Follow the steps below carefully to set it up correctly.

Step 1: Enable Network in Citra

• Open Citra and click on Emulation, then choose Configure from the menu.
• Go to the System section and open Network Settings.
• Check the box that says Enable Network so local trading can work.
• Click OK to save the settings before closing the window.

Step 2: Open Two Citra Windows

• Open the first Citra window and load your first Pokémon game.
• Open a second Citra window as a new instance of the emulator.
• Load the second Pokémon game in the new window.

Step 3: Start the Trade in Both Games

• In both games, go inside a Pokémon Center building.
• Choose the Trade option from the in-game menu.
• Select Local Wireless as the connection method.
• Wait a few seconds for both games to detect each other.
• Complete the trade normally once both players are connected.

Important Tips:

  • Make sure both Citra windows have network enabled in settings.
  • Use the same version of Citra in both windows for best results.
  • If the games do not detect each other, close both windows and reopen them.

With proper setup, trading works smoothly between all Gen 6 Pokémon games on Citra.

HD Texture Packs – Make Your Game Look Even Better:

If you want Pokemon X, Y, Omega Ruby, or Alpha Sapphire to look much better on Citra, you can use HD texture packs. These packs replace the original low-quality 3DS textures with high-definition versions. The result is sharper characters, cleaner environments, and overall better visuals.

How to Install HD Texture Packs?

• Download a trusted HD texture pack made for your specific Pokémon game version.
• Extract the downloaded files using WinRAR or 7-Zip.
• Open Citra and click File, then select Open Citra Folder.
• Go to the folder named load, then open the textures folder inside it.
• Find or create a folder with your game’s ID number.
• Place all extracted texture files inside that Game ID folder.
• In Citra, go to Graphics, then Advanced settings, and enable Custom Textures.
• Launch the game and the new HD textures should load automatically.

Performance Impact:

  • On mid-range PCs, HD textures may reduce FPS by around 5 to 10 frames.
  • On high-end PCs, there is usually no noticeable performance loss.
  • If FPS drops, lower the resolution scale slightly to balance performance and quality.

HD texture packs can greatly improve how the game looks, especially when combined with 3x or 4x resolution settings.

Real 3DS vs Citra – Which Is Better?

If you want to play Pokémon Gen 6 games, you may wonder whether a real Nintendo 3DS is better or Citra on PC. Below is a simple comparison to help you decide.

Comparison Table:

FeatureReal Nintendo 3DSCitra Emulator
FPS30 FPS only60 FPS for smoother gameplay ✅
Resolution400×240 (original resolution)Up to 4K resolution supported ✅
Graphics QualityOriginal textures onlyHD textures available ✅
Save StatesNot supportedCan save anytime (F1 key) ✅
Controller SupportBuilt-in controls onlySupports any PC controller ✅
Screen TearingCan happen sometimesNo tearing with VSync enabled ✅
PortabilityFully portable handheld device ✅PC or laptop only
CostRequires buying a console ($150+)Free emulator software ✅

For better performance and graphics quality, Citra is the better option. You get smoother 60 FPS gameplay, higher resolution, HD textures, and controller support. The only real advantage of a Nintendo 3DS is portability. If you have a decent PC, Citra gives the best Pokémon Gen 6 experience.

Conclusion:

Pokemon X, Y, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire run perfectly on Citra in 2026. With the right settings, you get smooth 60 FPS gameplay, sharp 4x resolution graphics, and stable performance from start to finish. Small issues like audio crackling in ORAS are easy to fix, and features like save states make the experience even more convenient.

You can also trade between games, use controllers, and even install HD texture packs for better visuals. Whether you are playing for the first time or replaying old favorites, Citra gives a smoother and better-looking experience than the original 3DS hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What PC do I need for 60 FPS?

Pokemon X, Y, Omega Ruby, and Alpha Sapphire are not very heavy games. For smooth 60 FPS, a basic PC with Intel i3 or Ryzen 3, 4GB RAM, and a GPU from the last 5 years is enough. For higher resolution like 4x, an i5 or Ryzen 5, 8GB RAM, and GTX 1050 or better is recommended.

Can I move my save from a real 3DS to Citra?

Yes, you can transfer your save file. You need to extract the save from your 3DS using a tool like Checkpoint and then place it inside Citra’s save folder. There are many step-by-step guides online that explain the full process.

Do online features work on Citra?

No, online trading and battling do not work because they need Nintendo’s official servers. However, local trading between two Citra windows on the same PC works fine.

Which is better – Pokemon X or Y?

Both games are almost the same. The main difference is the legendary Pokemon: X has Xerneas and Y has Yveltal. Performance and graphics are identical on Citra, so choose the one you like more.

Can I use cheats or mods?

Yes, Citra supports cheat codes. You can add Action Replay codes in the game properties section. ROM hacks and mods also work if they are set up correctly.

Does Citra work on Android?

Yes, there is an Android version of Citra. Pokemon X, Y, and ORAS run well on strong phones like Snapdragon 845 or newer. Mid-range phones may need lower settings for stable performance.

Why is Omega Ruby better than the original Ruby?

Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire are full remakes with better graphics, updated gameplay, Mega Evolutions, new story content, and many improvements. They offer a much better experience than the old GBA version.

Can I play with friends over the internet?

Citra does not officially support online internet play. Some users try using VPN software to create a virtual local network, but it can be difficult and does not always work reliably.

Hey there, I’m Ryan! I’m a big fan of Nintendo 3DS games and emulators, and I’ve spent a lot of time testing Citra on different devices. I enjoy checking which builds work best, how games perform, and what settings give smoother gameplay. On this site, I share easy guides, honest tips, and clear explanations to help you use Citra safely and enjoy your favorite 3DS games without confusion.

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