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Version: Stable

Common Tasks

Not sure which page you need? Find what you want to do below. Each link goes to the page that explains it.

Launching games​

  • Launch a game from a card. Write it in the Zaparoo App: pick the game, tap a blank NFC card, done.
  • Launch a random game from a system. Use the launch.random command on a card.
  • Put a whole folder or a list of games on one card. Create a playlist and scan the card again to move through it.
  • Use an Amiibo, Skylander, or other toy. Map each figure to a game with NFC toys.
  • Use the barcode on a game box or a printed QR code. See barcodes and QR codes.
  • Launch from your phone without a reader. Zaparoo App Pro turns your phone into the reader.
  • Browse and launch from the TV on MiSTer. Install Zaparoo Frontend.

Households and arcades​

  • Limit playtime. Set limits and warnings with play controls.
  • Give each person their own settings, limits, and saves. Create device profiles.
  • Stop an accidental scan from killing the current game. Turn on the launch guard.
  • Keep music playing while a game runs. Use the background music slot.

Protecting your setup​

Automation​

  • Run a script or automation when a card is tapped. Use hooks, or send scans from Home Assistant with the MQTT reader.
  • Send events to lights, marquees, or other software. Set up publishers.
  • Control Zaparoo from your own code. Use the Core API.

Cards and labels​

  • Design and print card labels. Start with the labels guide, which covers Zaparoo Designer, printing, and cutting.
  • Choose which NFC cards to buy. Read NFC cards and tags.
  • Store and display a collection. See token storage.

When something is wrong​

Still lost? The glossary defines the terms used across these docs, and the Discord is the fastest place to ask.