Fix RetroArch loading the wrong disc after a swap on Android
Open Quick Menu > Disc Control, eject the virtual tray, select the intended Current Disc Index, then insert it. If the index order is wrong, stop and repair the playlist or append the authorized image deliberately; do not rename images during an active save. Reopen from the same playlist and confirm that the save belongs to the playlist identity, not a separately launched disc.
Do this in order
- 01
Back up the save and record the core, playlist path, ordered disc paths, checksums, current index, and on-screen swap prompt.
- 02
Open Disc Control and confirm the current index; if the menu is absent, verify core support before editing files.
- 03
Choose Eject Disc, change Current Disc Index to the requested authorized image, then choose Insert Disc.
- 04
If the image is absent, append it deliberately or stop content and repair the playlist order; do not overwrite an existing entry.
- 05
Continue until the game confirms the new disc, save in-game, and stop content cleanly.
- 06
Cold-launch the playlist, load the save, and confirm disc order and identity before deleting any backup.
Decision and diagnostic table
| Symptom | Likely layer | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Disc Control absent | Core capability | Core documentation and log |
| Index changes but game disagrees | Tray sequence | Eject, select, insert |
| Expected image absent | Playlist or append list | Verify ordered paths |
| Save missing after relaunch | Content identity | Launch the playlist, not a disc |
The index is a virtual changer
Libretro separates eject state, current index, and the images in the changer. Selecting a number without completing the tray sequence may leave the old media active.
Playlist identity protects saves
Launching one disc directly can create a different content identity from launching the multi-disc playlist. Keep the same entry point before diagnosing a lost save.
Do not repair by renaming
A renamed image can invalidate playlist paths and provenance without changing its bytes. Preserve checksums and repair the ordered reference instead.
Use only game, firmware, artwork, music, and media files you created, dumped lawfully, or received under permission covering your use. Emulator compatibility never grants content rights; do not use unauthorized ROM, BIOS, CHD, artwork, music, or download mirrors.