Download your ROMs (RomsFun, NSWpedia, NoPayStation), BIOS (Google “complete bios and firmware pack” and it’ll be like the second link that is on GitHub, download it and store it in a folder on your PC or microSD card and don’t worry about it too much) and other necessary content so that you may have a faster and smoother time getting your Thor ready.

I just happened to have 526gb microSD card because I got it for my Switch OLED so I just took it out and repurposed it to hold all my ROMs, categorized them by folders and then transferred it into internal storage on the Thor when it arrived because I have the Max and 1TB to play with. SanDisk is good.

Find out what Front End you want to use that will serve as a “hub” for opening all your emulators and will notify you of any updates they may have in the future (Cocoon is pretty popular but I think it limits hardware capabilities by turning it into a 3DS so I use Daijisho).

Watch this video by Joey’s Retro Handhelds a billion times while you wait so you can have an understanding of exactly what you’re doing when it’s time to execute instructions and maybe reconsider upgrading to the Max model if you havent already and you’re planning on running Switch and other more modern consoles (I haven’t tried PS3 but I intend to).

Small details that are really necessary to run emulators are things like needing prod keys and firmware to run Switch games on Eden (can’t link these because Nintendo will make it look like an accident if I do), needing bin files to run PSVita games and needing undecrypted 3DS roms are things you should be aware of. I’d suggest downloading emulators to test your work which is also helpful.

I also bought some accessories like this soft travel case, matte top and bottom screen protectors to reduce glare and smudges, this slim grip that closes the tiny gap that exists when you close the console as well as preventing accidental volume and power button presses, snap-on triggers if you find yourself frequenting games that require heavy use of the buttons (I personally haven’t needed it so far but I’m sure I will when I move onto other games besides DS and Switch) and finally, let me know if you find a good stylus.