Nintendo 3DS Uses DOSBox to Run Windows 95 – Boots in Hours

A tech enthusiast decided to take on a fascinating challenge by trying to run Windows 95 on a Nintendo 3DS via a homebrew port of DOSBox. The adventure took place on the “New” 3DS model, which houses more RAM and enhanced processing capabilities. TechTuber MetraByte embarked on this journey, successfully getting DOSBox up and running and then installing Windows 95 over it. The endeavor wasn’t without its hitches, as loading times turned out to be quite lengthy. MetraByte even left the handheld on overnight for the OS’s initial boot, in stark contrast to the five minutes the installer required. Interesting to note, mouse input through touch using DOSBox wasn’t functional until well into the operating system’s launch on the device.

The silver lining here is that Windows 95 actually runs on the New Nintendo 3DS. Considering it was originally designed to operate with a mere 4MB of RAM—albeit for x86 systems—the 3DS’s 256MB should have been ample, even more so for applications from the mid-’90s. Nevertheless, DOSBox doesn’t just manage system memory; it must also emulate x86 architecture on the 3DS’s ARM-based system, which presents quite a performance hurdle.

While Windows 95 can indeed function on the New Nintendo 3DS, the question remains: should it? The process is long and taxing, and the results are less than practical. For instance, when MetraByte tried playing MIDI audio files or running his preferred music studio software, the results ranged from failed functionality to system crashes. Yet, outside those issues, the OS showed some signs of life, albeit minimally.

Practically speaking, if you’re using DOSBox on the New Nintendo 3DS, it’s best to steer clear of installing Windows. Instead, opt for classic DOS games, which likely fare better under these conditions. Given the underlying power of the New 3DS (sans the overhead of Windows 95), it’s much better suited for older DOS titles that could run smoothly and provide a more fruitful experience.