How to Patch AetherSX2 into NetherSX2

Still using AetherSX2 but want the updated features of NetherSX2 without losing your settings, BIOS, or saves? Patching lets you upgrade without starting from scratch. This guide shows the exact process, tools, and safety checks you need to turn your existing AetherSX2 APK into a fully working NetherSX2 build.

Why Patch Instead of Fresh Install?

A clean NetherSX2 installation is possible, but patching your AetherSX2 APK offers several advantages:

  • Keeps Your Settings — No need to reconfigure graphics, controls, or speed hacks.
  • Preserves BIOS & Saves — Avoids the hassle of re-importing these files.
  • Adds NetherSX2 Features — Access improvements like updated GameDB patches, bug fixes, and UI enhancements.
  • Removes Unwanted Ads — The patch process can strip embedded ads present in older builds.

Patching is faster and safer for users who already have a stable AetherSX2 setup.

What You Need Before Patching

Required Files & Tools

  • AetherSX2 APK — The version you currently use (usually downloaded from the original developer’s release).
  • NetherSX2 Patch Script or APK — The official patching tool, often shared by the NetherSX2 development team.
  • File Manager App — To move and rename files as needed.
  • Optional: UniPatcher or APKTool — For advanced patching on Android or PC.

System Requirements

  • Android 8.0 Oreo or higher.
  • At least 300MB free storage for temporary patch files.
  • Device with enough processing power to recompile the APK (Snapdragon 660 or better recommended).

Back Up Your AetherSX2 Data

Before patching, create a backup of your emulator’s essential files:

  1. Open your file manager.
  2. Locate the AetherSX2 folder (often in /Android/data or internal storage).
  3. Copy:
    • BIOS folder
    • Saves folder (memory cards and save states)
    • textures folder (if you use custom packs)
  4. Store backups on your PC, SD card, or cloud storage.

This ensures you can restore your setup if something goes wrong.

Download the NetherSX2 Patch Tool

The patch tool is typically available in two formats:

  • Standalone APK Patch App — Runs directly on your Android device.
  • PC Script Tool — Used with AetherSX2 APKs on a computer before transferring back to Android.

Important: Only download from the official GitHub or developer’s trusted channel to avoid malware risks.

Extract or Locate the AetherSX2 APK

If you already have the AetherSX2 APK saved, you can skip extraction.
If not, you can:

  • Use a backup tool like APK Extractor to pull the installed APK from your device.
  • Download your original version from the developer’s official release page.

Make sure the APK is stored in a location accessible to the patch tool.

Run the Patching Process

Method 1: Patching on Android

  1. Open the NetherSX2 Patch App.
  2. Select the source AetherSX2 APK.
  3. Apply the patch — options usually include:
    • Remove ads
    • Update GameDB
    • Enable UI fixes
    • Update to latest stable NetherSX2 core
  4. Save the patched APK to your desired folder.

Method 2: Patching on PC

  1. Place the AetherSX2 APK and patch script in the same folder.
  2. Run the command provided in the patch documentation.
  3. Once complete, transfer the new NetherSX2 APK to your Android device.

Install the Patched NetherSX2 APK

  1. Enable Install from Unknown Sources for your file manager or browser.
  2. Tap the patched APK and confirm installation.
  3. If prompted, uninstall the old AetherSX2 app first (do not delete its data folder if you want to keep settings).

Transfer Your BIOS, Saves, and Settings

If the patch retained your data, NetherSX2 should detect everything automatically.
If not:

  1. Copy your backed-up BIOS, save files, and textures into NetherSX2’s directory.
  2. Verify in the emulator’s settings that your BIOS is recognized.

Verify GameDB and Features

To confirm the patch worked:

  • Open NetherSX2 → Settings → About → Check GameDB date.
  • Test a game that previously needed a fix; GameDB patches should apply automatically.
  • Look for UI changes and ad removal (if applied).

Advantages After Patching

  • Updated Compatibility — Latest GameDB ensures more games run without manual tweaks.
  • Bug Fixes — Stability improvements over older AetherSX2 versions.
  • Visual Enhancements — Widescreen patches, no-interlace modes, and sprite alignment fixes.
  • Customization — Updated control mapping and performance profiles.

Troubleshooting Common Patching Issues

App Won’t Install

  • Uninstall the old version first, keeping its data folder intact.

Crashes on Launch

  • Clear app cache and try again.
  • Ensure the patch tool version matches your AetherSX2 build.

Missing Saves or BIOS

  • Restore from your manual backup into NetherSX2’s storage location.

Safety Tips When Patching

  • Check File Integrity — Use SHA-256 or MD5 to verify your patch tool and APK are genuine.
  • Avoid Third-Party Mods — Unless from a trusted developer, they can introduce instability.
  • Keep a Backup APK — Store the original AetherSX2 file in case you need to revert.

Future Updates After Patching

Once patched, you can update NetherSX2 in two ways:

  • Manual Patching — Apply the patch to a newer AetherSX2 build.
  • Direct NetherSX2 APK Updates — If the developer releases standalone updates.

Keeping your build current ensures you get the latest performance improvements and compatibility fixes.

Final Thoughts

Patching AetherSX2 into NetherSX2 is the quickest way to get enhanced features, updated compatibility, and bug fixes without losing your existing setup. By following these steps — backing up your data, using official patch tools, and verifying changes — you can upgrade safely and keep your PlayStation 2 games running at their best on Android.