Using NFC cards to launch games on Batocera.

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Start with NFC Cards

This setup uses affordable gear you might already own.

1. Install Zaparoo

Free software for your existing games and emulators.

Platform installation guides

2. Link a Card

Choose a game in the Zaparoo App and save it to a card.

Create NFC tokens

3. Tap and Play

Tap the card on your reader and the game launches.

Choose a reader

Start Here Browse the Docs

Works with Your Setup

Use Zaparoo across supported gaming platforms, readers, and token types.

Platforms

MiSTer FPGA Batocera RePlayOS Windows Linux SteamOS Bazzite ChimeraOS LibreELEC Commodore 64

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Ways to launch

NFC Cards NFC Tags QR Codes Barcodes CDs DVDs Blu-rays Amiibo Skylanders Disney Infinity LEGO Dimensions PCB Cards USB Sticks SD Cards

Compare token types Compare readers

Why people use Zaparoo

Turn digital game libraries into collections people can browse, share, and play.

Custom Zaparoo floppy disk collection by Suiren

Community build by Suiren

Physical collections

Give digital games a place on your shelf with cards, cartridges, discs, and other objects.

Zaparoo CRT setup with physical game cases by BigBlue709

Community build by BigBlue709

Family and game nights

Let family and guests browse physical choices and start playing without learning your frontend.

Arcade reader with a custom NFC coin collection by Foolz

Community build by Foolz

Arcades and custom builds

Switch games with tokens in cabinets, event setups, and custom hardware without opening menus.

Makers can build with the Core API, while ZapScript can launch media and trigger custom actions beyond games.

Browse Community Builds

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Zaparoo Is Free and Open Source

Here's how to help it keep growing.

Zaparoo Warp

Automatic off-site backups for Zaparoo data on every platform, plus supported MiSTer settings and saves. App Pro is included.

See Warp backup plans

Zaparoo Shop

Official hardware, readers, and accessories. Every purchase goes toward keeping the project running.

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Sponsor

Support development directly through Patreon or GitHub Sponsors. See all the ways to help.

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Community Showcase

See what people are building with Zaparoo.

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Aug 6, 2026