LDN Multiplayer Setup Guide for Linux

Ryujinx for Linux lets you play Nintendo Switch games with your friends.

Ryujinx includes a built-in LDN multiplayer feature that simulates local wireless play across multiple devices, allowing you to connect with friends via the internet or a local network without using Nintendo Switch Online. Whether you are running Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, or another distribution, this guide will show you how to enable and use LDN multiplayer in Linux.

What You Need to Get Started

Before using LDN, make sure you have:

A working Ryujinx LDN build (downloaded from this website).
Valid prod.keys and installed firmware
Compatible Nintendo Switch games with local wireless multiplayer
Matching game versions, updates, and regions among all players.
A steady network connection.
Optional: VPN like ZeroTier or Radmin VPN (for LAN simulation)

LDN enables peer-to-peer multiplayer by simulating local wireless communication between Switch consoles — without requiring a subscription or the original hardware.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide for Linux

Step 1: Download and launch Ryujinx (LDN Build).

Download the Ryujinx LDN build.
Extract or run the file:

If using .tar.gz:

mkdir -p ~/Emulators/RyujinxLDN

tar -xvzf ryujinx-*.tar.gz -C ~/Emulators/RyujinxLDN –strip-components=1

cd ~/Emulators/RyujinxLDN

./Ryujinx

If using .AppImage:

chmod +x ryujinx-*.AppImage

./ryujinx-*.AppImage

For smoother use, place the app in ~/Applications and create a shortcut or launcher.

Step 2: Check Multiplayer Compatibility.

LDN is only compatible with games that include Local Wireless multiplayer features. Titles that are compatible include:

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Splatoon 2 (LAN Mode)
Pokémon Sword & Shield
Luigi’s Mansion 3

Every player must have the same Ryujinx LDN version, game file, and update level.

Step 3: Open LDN Room Browser

Launch Ryujinx.
Navigate to Multiplayer > Open the LDN Room Browser
Accept the LDN terms when prompted.
You will find a list of public multiplayer rooms, or you can create your own.

Step 4: Set Up a Room on Linux

To run a multiplayer session:

Go to Multiplayer > Host Room.
Enter the following information:
- Room Name (Required)
- Password is optional for private sessions.
- Player limit
- Region (closest to the host)
Click Start.

Your room will now be visible from the lobby. Share your room name and password with other players so they can join.

Step 5: Join a room.

Join a friend’s session:

Start the LDN Room Browser.
Search or find the host’s room.
Click “Join Room”
Enter the password as needed.
Once connected, wait for the game to begin.

Make sure your game and version exactly match the host, or you may encounter connection problems or desync.

Step 6: Start the Game and Connect.

Once everybody is in the room:

Launch the game.
Navigate to the Local Wireless mode (do not use Online mode).
Wait for the nearby players to appear.
Join or host an in-game session.

Ryujinx will simulate a local Switch connection, making the experience feel more like native multiplayer.

Troubleshooting LDN on Linux

Problem	Solution
Game does not detect other players.	Ensure that all players have the same game version and update.
High ping or lag.	Use servers near your location, or host from the fastest connection.
Room is not visible.	Check your firewall rules, restart Ryujinx, or switch networks.
Game crashes at launch.	Check that the firmware and prod.keys are installed correctly.

Additional Notes

LDN does not require Nintendo Switch Online.
Always launch multiplayer games in the Local Wireless mode.
Use VPNs (ZeroTier, Radmin) for LAN-style play if you are not on the same network.
Avoid using modded builds unless everyone has the same configuration.
Save files and system settings should also be compatible across devices.

You’re Ready to Play

You have now finished configuring LDN multiplayer on Linux with Ryujinx. You can host or join multiplayer games, play seamlessly across networks, and share high-quality Nintendo Switch emulation with friends — no console is needed.

LDN provides a smooth and flexible way to play with others using only your computer and an internet connection.