diff --git a/src/libretro/CMakeLists.txt b/src/libretro/CMakeLists.txt
index 7dff6ac8..424c3504 100644
--- a/src/libretro/CMakeLists.txt
+++ b/src/libretro/CMakeLists.txt
@@ -81,6 +81,10 @@ add_library(melondsds_libretro MODULE
     std/chrono.hpp
     std/semaphore.hpp
     std/span.hpp
+    strings/en_us.hpp
+    strings/en_us/error.hpp
+    strings/en_us/notice.hpp
+    strings/en_us/osd.hpp
     sram.cpp
     sram.hpp
     tracy.hpp
diff --git a/src/libretro/config/config.cpp b/src/libretro/config/config.cpp
index ec4adf97..f3be86f0 100644
--- a/src/libretro/config/config.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/config/config.cpp
@@ -67,12 +67,14 @@
 #include "std/span.hpp"
 #include "tracy.hpp"
 #include "pcap.hpp"
+#include "strings/en_us.hpp"
 
 #ifdef interface
 #undef interface
 #endif
 
 using namespace melonDS;
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 using std::array;
 using std::find_if;
 using std::from_chars;
@@ -874,7 +876,7 @@ bool MelonDsDs::RegisterCoreOptions() noexcept {
         }
 
     } else {
-        retro::set_error_message("Failed to get system directory, anything that needs it won't work.");
+        retro::set_error_message(SysDirFailed);
     }
 
     if (!dsiNandPaths.empty()) {
@@ -1003,7 +1005,7 @@ bool MelonDsDs::RegisterCoreOptions() noexcept {
 #endif
 
     if (!retro::set_core_options(optionsUs)) {
-        retro::set_error_message("Failed to set core option definitions, functionality will be limited.");
+        retro::set_error_message(OptionInitFailed);
         return false;
     }
 
diff --git a/src/libretro/config/console.cpp b/src/libretro/config/console.cpp
index 8b1e7d3e..cb9a8bd5 100644
--- a/src/libretro/config/console.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/config/console.cpp
@@ -40,6 +40,7 @@
 #include "format.hpp"
 #include "retro/http.hpp"
 #include "retro/info.hpp"
+#include "strings/strings.hpp"
 #include "types.hpp"
 
 using std::make_optional;
@@ -59,6 +60,7 @@ namespace MelonDsDs {
     const char *TMD_DIR_NAME = "tmd";
     const char* SENTINEL_NAME = "melon.dat";
     constexpr uint32_t RSA256_SIGNATURE_TYPE = 16777472;
+    using namespace strings::en_us;
 
     static melonDS::NDSArgs GetNdsArgs(
         const CoreConfig& config,
@@ -134,9 +136,7 @@ std::unique_ptr<melonDS::NDS> MelonDsDs::CreateConsole(
     if (type == ConsoleType::DSi) {
         // If we're in DSi mode...
         if (gbaInfo || gbaSaveInfo) {
-            retro::set_warn_message(
-                "The DSi does not support GBA connectivity. Not loading the requested GBA ROM or SRAM."
-            );
+            retro::set_warn_message(DsiDoesntHaveGbaSlot);
         }
         return std::make_unique<melonDS::DSi>(GetDSiArgs(config, ndsInfo));
     }
@@ -471,11 +471,7 @@ static std::pair<unique_ptr<uint8_t[]>, size_t> MelonDsDs::LoadGbaSram(const ret
         // We don't support GBA SRAM files in archives right now;
         // libretro-common has APIs for extracting and re-inserting them,
         // but I just can't be bothered.
-        retro::set_error_message(
-            "melonDS DS does not support archived GBA save data right now. "
-            "Please extract it and try again. "
-            "Continuing without using the save data."
-        );
+        retro::set_error_message(ArchivedGbaSaveNotSupported);
 
         return { nullptr, 0 };
     }
@@ -492,11 +488,7 @@ static std::pair<unique_ptr<uint8_t[]>, size_t> MelonDsDs::LoadGbaSram(const ret
 
         // We don't support rzip-compressed GBA save files right now;
         // I can't be bothered.
-        retro::set_error_message(
-            "melonDS DS does not support compressed GBA save data right now. "
-            "Please disable save data compression in the frontend and try again. "
-            "Continuing without using the save data."
-        );
+        retro::set_error_message(CompressedGbaSaveNotSupported);
 
         rzipstream_close(gba_save_file);
         return { nullptr, 0 };
@@ -955,15 +947,13 @@ static void MelonDsDs::CustomizeFirmware(const CoreConfig& config, Firmware& fir
         memset(&chk2[0x0C], 0, 8);
 
         if (!memcmp(chk1, chk2, sizeof(chk1))) {
-            constexpr const char* const WARNING_MESSAGE =
-                "Corrupted firmware detected!\n"
-                "Any game that alters Wi-fi settings will break this firmware, even on real hardware.\n";
+
 
             if (config.ShowBiosWarnings()) {
-                retro::set_warn_message(WARNING_MESSAGE);
+                retro::set_warn_message(HackedFirmwareWarning);
             }
             else {
-                retro::warn(WARNING_MESSAGE);
+                retro::warn(HackedFirmwareWarning);
             }
         }
     }
@@ -981,7 +971,7 @@ static void MelonDsDs::CustomizeFirmware(const CoreConfig& config, Firmware& fir
 
         optional<u16string> convertedUsername = ConvertUsername(*username);
         if (!convertedUsername) {
-            retro::set_warn_message("Can't use the name \"{}\" on the DS, using default name instead.", *username);
+            retro::set_warn_message(UsernameFailed, fmt::arg("name", *username));
             convertedUsername = ConvertUsername(config::values::firmware::DEFAULT_USERNAME);
         }
 
diff --git a/src/libretro/config/definitions/network.hpp b/src/libretro/config/definitions/network.hpp
index 1e31e883..705c33ea 100644
--- a/src/libretro/config/definitions/network.hpp
+++ b/src/libretro/config/definitions/network.hpp
@@ -31,12 +31,13 @@ namespace MelonDsDs::config::definitions {
         "Indirect: Use libslirp to emulate the DS's network stack. Simple and needs no setup.\n"
 #ifdef HAVE_NETWORKING_DIRECT_MODE
         "Direct: Routes emulated Wi-Fi packets to the host's network interface. "
-        "Faster and more reliable, but requires an ethernet connection and "
-#ifdef _WIN32
-        "that WinPcap or Npcap is installed. "
-#else
-        "that libpcap is installed. "
-#endif
+#   ifdef _WIN32
+        "Faster and more reliable, but requires an ethernet connection "
+        "and that WinPcap or Npcap is installed. "
+#   else
+        "Faster and more reliable, but requires an ethernet connection "
+        "and that libpcap is installed. "
+#   endif
         "If unavailable, falls back to Indirect mode.\n"
 #endif
         "\n"
diff --git a/src/libretro/core/core.cpp b/src/libretro/core/core.cpp
index 1e703b4a..61cf6ccf 100644
--- a/src/libretro/core/core.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/core/core.cpp
@@ -28,6 +28,7 @@
 #include <compat/strl.h>
 #include <file/file_path.h>
 
+#include "../strings/strings.hpp"
 #include "../config/console.hpp"
 #include "../exceptions.hpp"
 #include "../format.hpp"
@@ -44,16 +45,10 @@
 
 using std::span;
 using namespace melonDS::DSi_NAND;
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 
 constexpr size_t DS_MEMORY_SIZE = 0x400000;
 constexpr size_t DSI_MEMORY_SIZE = 0x1000000;
-static const char* const INTERNAL_ERROR_MESSAGE =
-    "An internal error occurred with melonDS DS. "
-    "Please contact the developer with the log file.";
-
-static const char* const UNKNOWN_ERROR_MESSAGE =
-    "An unknown error has occurred with melonDS DS. "
-    "Please contact the developer with the log file.";
 
 date::local_seconds LocalTime() noexcept {
     using namespace std::chrono;
@@ -189,7 +184,7 @@ void MelonDsDs::CoreState::Reset() {
     ZoneScopedN(TracyFunction);
 
     if (_messageScreen) {
-        retro::set_error_message("Please follow the advice on this screen, then unload/reload the core.");
+        retro::set_error_message(PleaseResetCore);
         return;
         // TODO: Allow the game to be reset from the error screen
         // (gotta reinitialize the DS here)
@@ -290,7 +285,7 @@ bool MelonDsDs::CoreState::RunDeferredInitialization() noexcept {
     }
     catch (...) {
         retro::error("Deferred initialization failed; exiting core");
-        retro::set_error_message(UNKNOWN_ERROR_MESSAGE);
+        retro::set_error_message(UnknownError);
         return false;
     }
 
@@ -430,9 +425,6 @@ void MelonDsDs::CoreState::InitFlushFirmwareTask() noexcept
         _flushTaskId = flushTask.Identifier();
         retro::task::push(std::move(flushTask));
     }
-    else {
-        retro::set_error_message("System path not found, changes to firmware settings won't be saved.");
-    }
 }
 
 void MelonDsDs::CoreState::ResetRenderState() {
@@ -450,8 +442,7 @@ bool MelonDsDs::CoreState::LoadGame(unsigned type, std::span<const retro_game_in
 
     // ...then load the game.
     if (!retro::set_pixel_format(RETRO_PIXEL_FORMAT_XRGB8888)) {
-        throw environment_exception(
-            "Failed to set the required XRGB8888 pixel format for rendering; it may not be supported.");
+        throw environment_exception(PixelFormatUnsupported);
     }
 
     if (RegisterCoreOptions()) {
@@ -528,11 +519,11 @@ catch (const emulator_exception& e) {
 }
 catch (const std::exception& e) {
     retro::error("{}", e.what());
-    retro::set_error_message(INTERNAL_ERROR_MESSAGE);
+    retro::set_error_message(InternalError);
     return false;
 }
 catch (...) {
-    retro::set_error_message(UNKNOWN_ERROR_MESSAGE);
+    retro::set_error_message(UnknownError);
     return false;
 }
 
@@ -610,7 +601,7 @@ void MelonDsDs::CoreState::ApplyConfig(const CoreConfig& config) noexcept {
         // (so that excessive warnings aren't shown)
         if (!_micState.IsMicInterfaceAvailable() && config.ShowUnsupportedFeatureWarnings()) {
             // ...but this frontend doesn't support it...
-            retro::set_warn_message("This frontend doesn't support microphones.");
+            retro::set_warn_message(MicNotSupported);
         }
         else if (!_micState.IsHostMicOpen()) {
             retro::warn("Failed to open host microphone");
@@ -660,7 +651,6 @@ void MelonDsDs::CoreState::InitContent(unsigned type, std::span<const retro_game
             break;
         default:
             retro::error("Unknown game type {}", type);
-            retro::set_error_message(INTERNAL_ERROR_MESSAGE);
             throw std::runtime_error("Unknown game type");
     }
 }
@@ -799,16 +789,11 @@ bool MelonDsDs::CoreState::Unserialize(std::span<const std::byte> data) noexcept
 
         if (major < SAVESTATE_MAJOR) {
             // If this savestate is too old...
-            retro::set_error_message(
-                "This savestate is too old, can't load it.\n"
-                "Save your game normally in the older version and import the save data.");
+            retro::set_error_message(StateTooOld);
         }
         else if (major > SAVESTATE_MAJOR) {
             // If this savestate is too new...
-            retro::set_error_message(
-                "This savestate is too new, can't load it.\n"
-                "Save your game normally in the newer version, "
-                "then update this core or import the save data.");
+            retro::set_error_message(StateTooNew);
         }
 
         return false;
@@ -816,7 +801,7 @@ bool MelonDsDs::CoreState::Unserialize(std::span<const std::byte> data) noexcept
 
     if (data.size() != *_savestateSize) {
         retro::error("Expected a {}-byte savestate, got one of {} bytes", *_savestateSize, data.size());
-        retro::set_error_message("Can't load this savestate, most likely the ROM or the core is wrong.");
+        retro::set_error_message(StateLoadFailed);
         return false;
     }
 
@@ -875,13 +860,13 @@ void MelonDsDs::CoreState::CheatSet(unsigned index, bool enabled, std::string_vi
         return;
 
     if (!enabled) {
-        retro::set_warn_message("Action Replay codes can't be undone, restart the game to remove their effects.");
+        retro::set_warn_message(CantDisableCheat);
         return;
     }
 
     if (!regex_match(code.data(), _cheatSyntax)) {
         // If we're trying to activate this cheat code, but it's not valid...
-        retro::set_warn_message("Cheat #{} ({:.8}...) isn't valid, ignoring it.", index, code);
+        retro::set_warn_message(InvalidCheat, fmt::arg("index", index), fmt::arg("code", code));
         return;
     }
 
diff --git a/src/libretro/core/tasks.cpp b/src/libretro/core/tasks.cpp
index ede7c85e..347a80c7 100644
--- a/src/libretro/core/tasks.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/core/tasks.cpp
@@ -34,8 +34,10 @@
 #include "microphone.hpp"
 #include "retro/task_queue.hpp"
 #include "tracy.hpp"
+#include "strings/en_us.hpp"
 
 using namespace melonDS;
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 
 using std::nullopt;
 using std::optional;
@@ -338,18 +340,18 @@ retro::task::TaskSpec MelonDsDs::CoreState::OnScreenDisplayTask() noexcept {
             if (Config.ShowCurrentLayout()) {
                 fmt::format_to(
                     inserter,
-                    "{}Layout {}/{}",
-                    buf.size() == 0 ? "" : OSD_DELIMITER,
-                    _screenLayout.LayoutIndex() + 1,
-                    _screenLayout.NumberOfLayouts()
+                    CurrentLayout,
+                    fmt::arg("sep", buf.size() == 0 ? "" : OSD_DELIMITER),
+                    fmt::arg("layout_num", _screenLayout.LayoutIndex() + 1),
+                    fmt::arg("num_layouts", _screenLayout.NumberOfLayouts())
                 );
             }
 
             if (Config.ShowLidState() && nds.IsLidClosed()) {
                 fmt::format_to(
                     inserter,
-                    "{}Closed",
-                    buf.size() == 0 ? "" : OSD_DELIMITER
+                    ScreenState,
+                    fmt::arg("sep", buf.size() == 0 ? "" : OSD_DELIMITER)
                 );
             }
 
diff --git a/src/libretro/exceptions.cpp b/src/libretro/exceptions.cpp
index 7d3a408c..86fd23a2 100644
--- a/src/libretro/exceptions.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/exceptions.cpp
@@ -22,157 +22,113 @@
 #include <sstream>
 #include <fmt/core.h>
 
+#include "strings/en_us.hpp"
+
 using std::optional;
 using std::string;
 using std::string_view;
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
+using fmt::arg;
 
-MelonDsDs::nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception::nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception(string_view firmwareName) noexcept
+MelonDsDs::nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception::nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception(string_view path) noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    fmt::format(
-        FMT_STRING(
-            "The firmware file at \"{}\" can't be used to boot to the DS menu."
-        ),
-        firmwareName
-    ),
-    "Ensure you have native DS (not DSi) firmware in your frontend's system folder. "
-    "Pick it in the core options, then restart the core. "
-    "If you just want to play a DS game, try setting Boot Mode to \"Direct\" "
-    "or BIOS/Firmware Mode to \"Built-In\" in the core options."
+    fmt::format(NativeFirmwareNotBootableProblem, arg("path", path)),
+    FirmwareNotBootableSolution
 ) {
 }
 
 MelonDsDs::nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception::nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception() noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    "The built-in firmware can't be used to boot to the DS menu.",
-    "Ensure you have native DS (not DSi) firmware in your frontend's system folder. "
-    "Pick it in the core options, then restart the core. "
-    "If you just want to play a DS game, try setting Boot Mode to \"Direct\" "
-    "or BIOS/Firmware Mode to \"Built-In\" in the core options."
+    BuiltInFirmwareNotBootableProblem,
+    FirmwareNotBootableSolution
 ) {
 }
 
 MelonDsDs::wrong_firmware_type_exception::wrong_firmware_type_exception(
-    std::string_view firmwareName,
-    MelonDsDs::ConsoleType consoleType,
-    melonDS::Firmware::FirmwareConsoleType firmwareConsoleType
+    std::string_view path,
+    MelonDsDs::ConsoleType console,
+    melonDS::Firmware::FirmwareConsoleType firmwareConsole
 ) noexcept : bios_exception(
     fmt::format(
-        FMT_STRING("The firmware file at \"{}\" is for the {}, but it can't be used in {} mode."),
-        firmwareName,
-        firmwareConsoleType,
-        consoleType
+        WrongFirmwareProblem,
+        arg("path", path),
+        arg("firmwareConsole", firmwareConsole),
+        arg("console", console)
     ),
     fmt::format(
-        FMT_STRING(
-            "Ensure you have a {}-compatible firmware file in your frontend's system folder (any name works). "
-            "Pick it in the core options, then restart the core. "
-            "If you just want to play a DS game, try disabling DSi mode in the core options."
-        ),
-        consoleType
+        WrongFirmwareSolution,
+        arg("console", console)
     )
 ) {
 }
 
 
 MelonDsDs::dsi_region_mismatch_exception::dsi_region_mismatch_exception(
-    string_view nandName,
-    melonDS::DSi_NAND::ConsoleRegion nandRegion,
-    melonDS::RegionMask gameRegionMask
+    string_view path,
+    melonDS::DSi_NAND::ConsoleRegion region,
+    melonDS::RegionMask regions
 ) noexcept
     : config_exception(
     fmt::format(
-        "The NAND file at \"{}\" has the region \"{}\", "
-        "but the loaded DSiWare game will only run in the following regions: {}",
-        nandName,
-        nandRegion,
-        gameRegionMask
+        WrongNandRegionProblem,
+        arg("path", path),
+        arg("region", region),
+        arg("regions", regions)
     ),
-    "Double-check that you're using the right NAND file "
-    "and the right copy of your game."
+    WrongNandRegionSolution
 ) {
 }
 
 MelonDsDs::dsi_no_firmware_found_exception::dsi_no_firmware_found_exception() noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    "DSi mode requires a firmware file from a DSi, but none was found.",
-    "Place your DSi firmware file in your frontend's system folder, "
-    "then restart the core. "
-    "If you just want to play a DS game, "
-    "try disabling DSi mode in the core options."
+    NoDsiFirmwareProblem,
+    NoDsiFirmwareSolution
 ) {
 }
 
-MelonDsDs::firmware_missing_exception::firmware_missing_exception(std::string_view firmwareName) noexcept
+MelonDsDs::firmware_missing_exception::firmware_missing_exception(std::string_view path) noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    fmt::format(
-        "The core is set to use the firmware file at \"{}\", but it wasn't there or it couldn't be loaded.",
-        firmwareName
-    ),
-    fmt::format(
-        "Place your DSi firmware file in your frontend's system folder, name it \"{}\", then restart the core.",
-        firmwareName
-    )
+    fmt::format(NoFirmwareProblem, arg("path", path)),
+    fmt::format(NoFirmwareSolution, arg("path", path))
 ) {
 }
 
 MelonDsDs::nds_sysfiles_incomplete_exception::nds_sysfiles_incomplete_exception() noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    "Booting to the native DS menu requires native DS firmware and BIOS files, "
-    "but some of them were missing or couldn't be loaded.",
-    "Place your DS system files in your frontend's system folder, then restart the core. "
-    "If you want to play a regular DS game, try setting Boot Mode to \"Direct\" "
-    "and BIOS/Firmware Mode to \"Built-In\" in the core options."
+        IncompleteNdsSysfilesProblem,
+        IncompleteNdsSysfilesSolution
 ) {
 }
 
-MelonDsDs::dsi_missing_bios_exception::dsi_missing_bios_exception(MelonDsDs::BiosType bios, string_view biosName) noexcept
+MelonDsDs::dsi_missing_bios_exception::dsi_missing_bios_exception(MelonDsDs::BiosType bios, string_view path) noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    fmt::format(FMT_STRING("DSi mode requires the {} BIOS file, but none was found."), bios),
+    fmt::format(MissingDsiBiosProblem, arg("bios", bios)),
     fmt::format(
-        FMT_STRING(
-            "Place your {} BIOS file in your frontend's system folder, name it \"{}\", then restart the core. "
-            "If you want to play a regular DS game, try disabling DSi mode in the core options."
-        ),
-        bios,
-        biosName
+        MissingDsiBiosSolution,
+        arg("bios", bios),
+        arg("path", path)
     )
 ) {
 }
 
 MelonDsDs::dsi_no_nand_found_exception::dsi_no_nand_found_exception() noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    "DSi mode requires a NAND image, but none was found.",
-    "Place your NAND file in your frontend's system folder (any name works), then restart the core. "
-    "If you have multiple NAND files, you can choose one in the core options. "
-    "If you want to play a regular DS game, try disabling DSi mode in the core options."
+    NoDsiNandProblem,
+    NoDsiNandSolution
 ) {
-
 }
 
-MelonDsDs::dsi_nand_missing_exception::dsi_nand_missing_exception(string_view nandName) noexcept
+MelonDsDs::dsi_nand_missing_exception::dsi_nand_missing_exception(string_view path) noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    fmt::format(
-        "The core is set to use the NAND file at \"{}\", but it wasn't there or it couldn't be loaded.",
-        nandName
-    ),
-    fmt::format(
-        "Place your NAND file in your frontend's system folder, name it \"{}\", then restart the core. "
-        "If you've already done that, ensure that you're using the right NAND file.",
-        nandName
-    )
+    fmt::format(MissingDsiNandProblem, arg("path", path)),
+    fmt::format(MissingDsiNandSolution, arg("path", path))
 ) {
 }
 
-MelonDsDs::dsi_nand_corrupted_exception::dsi_nand_corrupted_exception(string_view nandName) noexcept
+MelonDsDs::dsi_nand_corrupted_exception::dsi_nand_corrupted_exception(string_view path) noexcept
     : bios_exception(
-    fmt::format(
-        "The core managed to load the configured NAND file at \"{}\", "
-        "but it seems to be corrupted or invalid.",
-        nandName
-    ),
-    "Make sure that you're using the right NAND file, "
-    "and restore it from a backup copy if necessary. "
-    "Check to see if this NAND file works in the original melonDS emulator."
+    fmt::format(CorruptDsiNandProblem, arg("path", path)),
+    CorruptDsiNandSolution
 ) {
 }
 
diff --git a/src/libretro/exceptions.hpp b/src/libretro/exceptions.hpp
index c13ac2dd..e498a97e 100644
--- a/src/libretro/exceptions.hpp
+++ b/src/libretro/exceptions.hpp
@@ -97,7 +97,7 @@ namespace MelonDsDs
     class nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception : public bios_exception {
     public:
         explicit nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception() noexcept;
-        explicit nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception(std::string_view firmwareName) noexcept;
+        explicit nds_firmware_not_bootable_exception(std::string_view path) noexcept;
     };
 
 
diff --git a/src/libretro/libretro.cpp b/src/libretro/libretro.cpp
index 5dcfe28b..b2dbd7f8 100644
--- a/src/libretro/libretro.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/libretro.cpp
@@ -44,10 +44,12 @@
 #include "info.hpp"
 #include "retro/task_queue.hpp"
 #include "sram.hpp"
+#include "strings/strings.hpp"
 #include "tracy.hpp"
 #include "version.hpp"
 
 using namespace melonDS;
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 using std::make_optional;
 using std::optional;
 using std::nullopt;
@@ -194,7 +196,7 @@ PUBLIC_SYMBOL void retro_reset(void) {
         retro::shutdown();
     }
     catch (...) {
-        retro::set_error_message("An unknown error has occurred.");
+        retro::set_error_message(UnknownError);
         retro::shutdown();
     }
 }
@@ -280,7 +282,7 @@ void MelonDsDs::HardwareContextReset() noexcept {
         retro::shutdown();
     }
     catch (...) {
-        retro::set_error_message("OpenGL context initialization failed with an unknown error. Please report this issue.");
+        retro::set_error_message(UnknownError);
         retro::shutdown();
     }
 }
diff --git a/src/libretro/message/error.cpp b/src/libretro/message/error.cpp
index 066229fa..44c69df7 100644
--- a/src/libretro/message/error.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/message/error.cpp
@@ -24,6 +24,7 @@
 #include "embedded/melondsds_error_title_font.h"
 #include "embedded/melondsds_error_body_font.h"
 #include "screenlayout.hpp"
+#include "strings/en_us.hpp"
 #include "tracy.hpp"
 
 constexpr int TITLE_FONT_HEIGHT = 20; // in pixels
@@ -34,12 +35,9 @@ constexpr pntr_color TEXT_COLOR_TOP = {.rgba = {.b = 0x19, .g = 0x0F, .r = 0xD7,
 constexpr pntr_color BACKGROUND_COLOR_BOTTOM = {.rgba = {.b = 0x36, .g = 0x7D, .r = 0x63, .a = 0xFF}}; // dark green
 constexpr pntr_color TEXT_COLOR_BOTTOM = {.rgba = {.b = 0x98, .g = 0xE5, .r = 0xE7, .a = 0xFF}}; // light green
 
-static constexpr const char* const ERROR_TITLE = "Oh no! melonDS DS couldn't start...";
-static constexpr const char* const SOLUTION_TITLE = "Here's what you can do:";
-static constexpr const char* const THANK_YOU = "Thank you for using melonDS DS!";
-
 using std::span;
 using MelonDsDs::NDS_SCREEN_AREA;
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 
 // I intentionally fix the error message to the DS screen size to simplify the layout.
 MelonDsDs::error::ErrorScreen::ErrorScreen(const config_exception& e) noexcept : exception(e) {
@@ -101,11 +99,11 @@ void MelonDsDs::error::ErrorScreen::DrawTopScreen(pntr_font* titleFont, pntr_fon
     pntr_unload_image(errorIcon);
 
     // now draw the title
-    pntr_vector titleTextSize = pntr_measure_text_ex(titleFont, ERROR_TITLE, 0);
+    pntr_vector titleTextSize = pntr_measure_text_ex(titleFont, ErrorScreenTitle, 0);
     pntr_draw_text(
         topScreen,
         titleFont,
-        ERROR_TITLE,
+        ErrorScreenTitle,
         (NDS_SCREEN_WIDTH - titleTextSize.x) / 2,
         MARGIN,
         TEXT_COLOR_TOP
@@ -146,11 +144,11 @@ void MelonDsDs::error::ErrorScreen::DrawBottomScreen(pntr_font* titleFont, pntr_
     pntr_unload_image(sorryIcon);
 
     // now draw the title
-    pntr_vector titleTextSize = pntr_measure_text_ex(titleFont, SOLUTION_TITLE, 0);
+    pntr_vector titleTextSize = pntr_measure_text_ex(titleFont, ErrorScreenSolution, 0);
     pntr_draw_text(
         bottomScreen,
         titleFont,
-        SOLUTION_TITLE,
+        ErrorScreenSolution,
         (NDS_SCREEN_WIDTH - titleTextSize.x) / 2,
         MARGIN,
         TEXT_COLOR_BOTTOM
@@ -167,11 +165,11 @@ void MelonDsDs::error::ErrorScreen::DrawBottomScreen(pntr_font* titleFont, pntr_
         TEXT_COLOR_BOTTOM
     );
 
-    pntr_vector thankYouTextSize = pntr_measure_text_ex(bodyFont, THANK_YOU, 0);
+    pntr_vector thankYouTextSize = pntr_measure_text_ex(bodyFont, ErrorScreenThanks, 0);
     pntr_draw_text(
         bottomScreen,
         bodyFont,
-        THANK_YOU,
+        ErrorScreenThanks,
         NDS_SCREEN_WIDTH - thankYouTextSize.x - MARGIN,
         NDS_SCREEN_HEIGHT - thankYouTextSize.y - MARGIN,
         TEXT_COLOR_BOTTOM
diff --git a/src/libretro/platform/lan.cpp b/src/libretro/platform/lan.cpp
index e7afacab..04b593d9 100644
--- a/src/libretro/platform/lan.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/platform/lan.cpp
@@ -27,9 +27,11 @@
 #include "../config/constants.hpp"
 #include "../config/config.hpp"
 #include "../environment.hpp"
+#include "../strings/strings.hpp"
 #include "tracy.hpp"
 #include "pcap.hpp"
 
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 using namespace melonDS;
 using std::string;
 using std::string_view;
@@ -164,7 +166,7 @@ bool MelonDsDs::CoreState::LanInit() noexcept {
                 return true;
             }
 
-            retro::set_error_message("Failed to initialize indirect-mode Wi-fi support. Wi-fi will not be emulated.");
+            retro::set_error_message(IndirectWifiInitFailed);
             [[fallthrough]];
         default:
             _activeNetworkMode = MelonDsDs::NetworkMode::None;
diff --git a/src/libretro/platform/platform.cpp b/src/libretro/platform/platform.cpp
index b75deba7..3136b8fb 100644
--- a/src/libretro/platform/platform.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/platform/platform.cpp
@@ -32,9 +32,11 @@
 #include "../format.hpp"
 #include "retro/scaler.hpp"
 #include "sram.hpp"
+#include "strings/strings.hpp"
 #include "tracy.hpp"
 
 using namespace melonDS;
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 constexpr unsigned DSI_CAMERA_WIDTH = 640;
 constexpr unsigned DSI_CAMERA_HEIGHT = 480;
 
@@ -42,11 +44,11 @@ void Platform::SignalStop(Platform::StopReason reason) {
     retro::debug("Platform::SignalStop({})\n", reason);
     switch (reason) {
         case StopReason::BadExceptionRegion:
-            retro::set_error_message("An internal error occurred in the emulated console.");
+            retro::set_error_message(InternalConsoleError);
             retro::shutdown();
             break;
         case StopReason::GBAModeNotSupported:
-            retro::set_error_message("GBA mode is not supported. Use a GBA core instead.");
+            retro::set_error_message(GbaModeNotSupported);
             retro::shutdown();
             break;
         case StopReason::PowerOff:
diff --git a/src/libretro/render/render.cpp b/src/libretro/render/render.cpp
index d6ddf93d..841dfcca 100644
--- a/src/libretro/render/render.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/render/render.cpp
@@ -26,13 +26,14 @@
 #include "message/error.hpp"
 #include "render/software.hpp"
 #include "screenlayout.hpp"
+#include "strings/en_us.hpp"
 
 #if defined(HAVE_OPENGL) || defined(HAVE_OPENGLES)
 #include <GPU3D_OpenGL.h>
 #include "render/opengl.hpp"
 #endif
 
-
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 void MelonDsDs::RenderStateWrapper::Render(
     melonDS::NDS& nds,
     const InputState& input,
@@ -73,7 +74,7 @@ void MelonDsDs::RenderStateWrapper::SetRenderer(const CoreConfig& config) {
                 break;
             }
 
-            retro::set_warn_message("Failed to initialize OpenGL render state, falling back to software mode.");
+            retro::set_warn_message(OpenGlInitFailed);
             [[fallthrough]];
         }
 #endif
@@ -115,7 +116,7 @@ void MelonDsDs::RenderStateWrapper::UpdateRenderer(const CoreConfig& config, mel
             nds.GPU.SetRenderer3D(std::move(renderer));
             glRender->RequestRefresh();
         } else {
-            retro::set_warn_message("Failed to initialize OpenGL renderer, falling back to software mode.");
+            retro::set_warn_message(OpenGlInitFailed);
             _renderState = std::make_unique<SoftwareRenderState>(config);
             nds.GPU.SetRenderer3D(std::make_unique<melonDS::SoftRenderer>(config.ThreadedSoftRenderer()));
         }
diff --git a/src/libretro/screenlayout.cpp b/src/libretro/screenlayout.cpp
index 245cc6c6..44443471 100644
--- a/src/libretro/screenlayout.cpp
+++ b/src/libretro/screenlayout.cpp
@@ -30,7 +30,9 @@
 #include "math.hpp"
 #include "tracy.hpp"
 #include "render/render.hpp"
+#include "strings/strings.hpp"
 
+using namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us;
 using std::array;
 using std::max;
 using glm::inverse;
@@ -233,7 +235,7 @@ void MelonDsDs::ScreenLayoutData::Update() noexcept {
     } else if (newOrientation != retro::ScreenOrientation::Normal) {
         // A rotation to normal orientation may "fail", even though it's the default.
         // So only log an error if we're trying to rotate to something besides 0 degrees.
-        retro::set_error_message("Failed to rotate screen.");
+        retro::set_error_message(ScreenRotateFailed);
     }
 
     _dirty = false;
diff --git a/src/libretro/strings/en_us.hpp b/src/libretro/strings/en_us.hpp
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..f6bd0164
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/libretro/strings/en_us.hpp
@@ -0,0 +1,27 @@
+/*
+    Copyright 2024 Jesse Talavera
+
+    melonDS DS is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under
+    the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free
+    Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or (at your option)
+    any later version.
+
+    melonDS DS is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY
+    WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS
+    FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU General Public License for more details.
+
+    You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License along
+    with melonDS DS. If not, see http://www.gnu.org/licenses/.
+*/
+
+#ifndef MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_HPP
+#define MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_HPP
+
+#include "en_us/error.hpp"
+#include "en_us/notice.hpp"
+#include "en_us/osd.hpp"
+
+// These strings are intended to be shown directly to the player;
+// log messages don't need to be declared here.
+
+#endif // MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_HPP
diff --git a/src/libretro/strings/en_us/error.hpp b/src/libretro/strings/en_us/error.hpp
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..68c84e0e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/libretro/strings/en_us/error.hpp
@@ -0,0 +1,110 @@
+/*
+    Copyright 2024 Jesse Talavera
+
+    melonDS DS is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under
+    the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free
+    Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or (at your option)
+    any later version.
+
+    melonDS DS is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY
+    WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS
+    FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU General Public License for more details.
+
+    You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License along
+    with melonDS DS. If not, see http://www.gnu.org/licenses/.
+*/
+
+#ifndef MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_ERROR_HPP
+#define MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_ERROR_HPP
+
+// For messages that are meant to be displayed on the error screen
+namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us {
+    constexpr const char* const ErrorScreenTitle = "Oh no! melonDS DS couldn't start...";
+    constexpr const char* const ErrorScreenSolution = "Here's what you can do:";
+    constexpr const char* const ErrorScreenThanks = "Thank you for using melonDS DS!";
+
+    constexpr const char* const NativeFirmwareNotBootableProblem =
+        "The firmware file at \"{path}\" can't be used to boot to the DS menu.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const BuiltInFirmwareNotBootableProblem =
+        "The built-in firmware can't be used to boot to the DS menu.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const FirmwareNotBootableSolution =
+        "Ensure you have native DS (not DSi) firmware in your frontend's system folder. "
+        "Pick it in the core options, then restart the core. "
+        "If you just want to play a DS game, try setting Boot Mode to \"Direct\" "
+        "or BIOS/Firmware Mode to \"Built-In\" in the core options.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const WrongFirmwareProblem =
+        "The firmware file at \"{path}\" is for the {firmwareConsole}, but it can't be used in {console} mode.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const WrongFirmwareSolution =
+        "Ensure you have a {console}-compatible firmware file in your frontend's system folder (any name works). "
+        "Pick it in the core options, then restart the core. "
+        "If you just want to play a DS game, try disabling DSi mode in the core options.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const WrongNandRegionProblem =
+        "The NAND file at \"{path}\" has the region \"{region}\", "
+        "but the loaded DSiWare game will only run in the following regions: {regions}";
+
+    constexpr const char* const WrongNandRegionSolution =
+        "Double-check that you're using the right NAND file "
+        "and the right copy of your game.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const NoDsiFirmwareProblem =
+        "DSi mode requires a firmware file from a DSi, but none was found.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const NoDsiFirmwareSolution =
+        "Place your DSi firmware file in your frontend's system folder, "
+        "then restart the core. "
+        "If you just want to play a DS game, "
+        "try disabling DSi mode in the core options.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const NoFirmwareProblem =
+        "The core is set to use the firmware file at \"{path}\", but it wasn't there or it couldn't be loaded.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const NoFirmwareSolution =
+        "Place your DSi firmware file in your frontend's system folder, name it \"{path}\", then restart the core.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const IncompleteNdsSysfilesProblem =
+        "Booting to the native DS menu requires native DS firmware and BIOS files, "
+        "but some of them were missing or couldn't be loaded.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const IncompleteNdsSysfilesSolution =
+        "Place your DS system files in your frontend's system folder, then restart the core. "
+        "If you want to play a regular DS game, try setting Boot Mode to \"Direct\" "
+        "and BIOS/Firmware Mode to \"Built-In\" in the core options.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const MissingDsiBiosProblem =
+        "DSi mode requires the {bios} BIOS file, but none was found.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const MissingDsiBiosSolution =
+        "Place your {bios} BIOS file in your frontend's system folder, name it \"{path}\", then restart the core. "
+        "If you want to play a regular DS game, try disabling DSi mode in the core options.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const NoDsiNandProblem =
+        "DSi mode requires a NAND image, but none was found.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const NoDsiNandSolution =
+        "Place your NAND file in your frontend's system folder (any name works), then restart the core. "
+        "If you have multiple NAND files, you can choose one in the core options. "
+        "If you want to play a regular DS game, try disabling DSi mode in the core options.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const MissingDsiNandProblem =
+        "The core is set to use the NAND file at \"{path}\", but it wasn't there or it couldn't be loaded.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const MissingDsiNandSolution =
+        "Place your NAND file in your frontend's system folder, name it \"{path}\", then restart the core. "
+        "If you've already done that, ensure that you're using the right NAND file.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const CorruptDsiNandProblem =
+        "The core managed to load the configured NAND file at \"{path}\", "
+        "but it seems to be corrupted or invalid.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const CorruptDsiNandSolution =
+        "Make sure that you're using the right NAND file, "
+        "and restore it from a backup copy if necessary. "
+        "Check to see if this NAND file works in the standalone melonDS emulator.";
+}
+
+#endif //MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_ERROR_HPP
diff --git a/src/libretro/strings/en_us/notice.hpp b/src/libretro/strings/en_us/notice.hpp
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..52ffbb5c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/libretro/strings/en_us/notice.hpp
@@ -0,0 +1,103 @@
+/*
+    Copyright 2024 Jesse Talavera
+
+    melonDS DS is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under
+    the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free
+    Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or (at your option)
+    any later version.
+
+    melonDS DS is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY
+    WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS
+    FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU General Public License for more details.
+
+    You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License along
+    with melonDS DS. If not, see http://www.gnu.org/licenses/.
+*/
+
+#ifndef MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_NOTICE_HPP
+#define MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_NOTICE_HPP
+
+// For strings that are meant to be briefly displayed as on-screen notices
+namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us {
+    constexpr const char* const InternalError =
+        "An internal error occurred with melonDS DS. "
+        "Please contact the developer with the log file.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const UnknownError =
+        "An unknown error has occurred with melonDS DS. "
+        "Please contact the developer with the log file.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const InvalidCheat = "Cheat #{index} ({code:.8}...) isn't valid, ignoring it.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const ArchivedGbaSaveNotSupported =
+        "melonDS DS does not support archived GBA save data right now. "
+        "Please extract it and try again. "
+        "Continuing without using the save data.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const CantDisableCheat =
+        "Action Replay codes can't be undone, restart the game to disable them.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const CompressedGbaSaveNotSupported =
+        "melonDS DS does not support compressed GBA save data right now. "
+        "Please disable save data compression in the frontend and try again. "
+        "Continuing without using the save data.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const DsiDoesntHaveGbaSlot =
+        "The DSi doesn't have a GBA slot, "
+        "please use DS mode instead. "
+        "Ignoring the loaded GBA ROM.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const GbaModeNotSupported =
+        "GBA mode is not supported. Use a GBA core instead.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const IndirectWifiInitFailed =
+        "Failed to initialize indirect-mode Wi-fi support. Wi-fi will be disabled.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const InternalConsoleError =
+        "An internal error occurred in the emulated console.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const HackedFirmwareWarning =
+        "Corrupted firmware detected! "
+        "Any game that alters Wi-fi settings will break this firmware, even on real hardware.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const MicNotSupported =
+        "This frontend doesn't support microphones.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const OpenGlInitFailed =
+        "Failed to initialize OpenGL, falling back to software mode.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const OptionInitFailed =
+        "Failed to set core option definitions, functionality will be limited.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const PixelFormatUnsupported =
+        "Failed to set the required XRGB8888 pixel format for rendering; it may not be supported.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const PleaseResetCore =
+        "Please follow the advice on this screen, then unload/reload the core.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const ScreenRotateFailed =
+        "Failed to rotate screen.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const StateTooOld =
+        "This savestate is too old, can't load it.\n"
+        "Save your game normally in the older version and import the save data.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const StateTooNew =
+        "This savestate is too new, can't load it.\n"
+        "Save your game normally in the newer version, "
+        "then update this core or import the save data.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const StateLoadFailed =
+        "Can't load this savestate; did it come from the right core and game?";
+
+    constexpr const char* const SysDirFailed =
+        "Failed to get the system directory, functionality will be limited.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const UsernameFailed =
+        "Can't use the name \"{name}\" on the DS, using default name instead.";
+
+    constexpr const char* const UsernameUnavailable =
+        "Failed to get username, or none was provided; using default";
+}
+
+#endif //MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_NOTICE_HPP
diff --git a/src/libretro/strings/en_us/osd.hpp b/src/libretro/strings/en_us/osd.hpp
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..01a53db1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/libretro/strings/en_us/osd.hpp
@@ -0,0 +1,26 @@
+/*
+    Copyright 2024 Jesse Talavera
+
+    melonDS DS is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under
+    the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free
+    Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or (at your option)
+    any later version.
+
+    melonDS DS is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY
+    WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS
+    FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU General Public License for more details.
+
+    You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License along
+    with melonDS DS. If not, see http://www.gnu.org/licenses/.
+*/
+
+#ifndef MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_OSD_HPP
+#define MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_OSD_HPP
+
+// For strings that are meant to be displayed on the on-screen status display
+namespace MelonDsDs::strings::en_us {
+    constexpr const char* const CurrentLayout = "{sep}Layout {layout_num}/{num_layouts}";
+    constexpr const char* const ScreenState = "{sep}Closed";
+}
+
+#endif //MELONDSDS_STRINGS_EN_US_OSD_HPP
diff --git a/src/libretro/strings/strings.hpp b/src/libretro/strings/strings.hpp
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..a5a910b9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/libretro/strings/strings.hpp
@@ -0,0 +1,22 @@
+/*
+    Copyright 2024 Jesse Talavera
+
+    melonDS DS is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under
+    the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free
+    Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or (at your option)
+    any later version.
+
+    melonDS DS is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY
+    WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS
+    FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU General Public License for more details.
+
+    You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License along
+    with melonDS DS. If not, see http://www.gnu.org/licenses/.
+*/
+
+#ifndef MELONDSDS_STRINGS_STRINGS_HPP
+#define MELONDSDS_STRINGS_STRINGS_HPP
+
+#include "en_us.hpp"
+
+#endif // MELONDSDS_STRINGS_STRINGS_HPP