Custom themes typically consist of three parts: , Fonts , and Dynamic Backgrounds . Step 1: Switch to the XMB Driver
Enter .
If you want to batch-rename your wallpapers to match your playlist names, tools like Advanced Renamer can save considerable time.
: Advanced users often share themes here, such as the Material Design theme or RGUI-Themes for a classic lo-fi look.
The XMB driver offers the highest level of visual customization. Follow these steps to manually install a downloaded custom theme asset pack. Step 1: Locate Your Assets Directory
Generally, themes have minimal impact on performance. However, on lower-powered devices, more complex dynamic wallpapers and higher-resolution icons may have a slight effect. RGUI is the most performance-friendly option.
To develop your own theme, simply select “Custom” in , create a folder called “custom” in your assets directory, and place your icons, fonts, and background images there, replicating the folder hierarchy of other icon themes.
What are you using? (PC, Android, Steam Deck, or a handheld like Anbernic?)
Don't forget that you can change the entire UI style by switching to GLUI (for touchscreens) or RGUI (for a classic, CRT look) in Settings > Driver > Menu . Troubleshooting Theme Issues
Unlike modern app stores, RetroArch does not have a one-click "Theme Shop" built-in. You must manually download assets. Here are the best repositories and sources.
These official themes can be downloaded directly through RetroArch itself using the Online Updater, which is the easiest way to get started.
Custom themes typically consist of three parts: , Fonts , and Dynamic Backgrounds . Step 1: Switch to the XMB Driver
Enter .
If you want to batch-rename your wallpapers to match your playlist names, tools like Advanced Renamer can save considerable time.
: Advanced users often share themes here, such as the Material Design theme or RGUI-Themes for a classic lo-fi look.
The XMB driver offers the highest level of visual customization. Follow these steps to manually install a downloaded custom theme asset pack. Step 1: Locate Your Assets Directory
Generally, themes have minimal impact on performance. However, on lower-powered devices, more complex dynamic wallpapers and higher-resolution icons may have a slight effect. RGUI is the most performance-friendly option.
To develop your own theme, simply select “Custom” in , create a folder called “custom” in your assets directory, and place your icons, fonts, and background images there, replicating the folder hierarchy of other icon themes.
What are you using? (PC, Android, Steam Deck, or a handheld like Anbernic?)
Don't forget that you can change the entire UI style by switching to GLUI (for touchscreens) or RGUI (for a classic, CRT look) in Settings > Driver > Menu . Troubleshooting Theme Issues
Unlike modern app stores, RetroArch does not have a one-click "Theme Shop" built-in. You must manually download assets. Here are the best repositories and sources.
These official themes can be downloaded directly through RetroArch itself using the Online Updater, which is the easiest way to get started.