Tokens
Tokens are physical objects that trigger actions in Zaparoo. Writable tokens hold a small piece of text, like a game title or ZapScript command, not the game itself. Read-only tokens, such as some NFC toys or product barcodes, can be matched to ZapScript with mappings. When you scan a token on a reader, Zaparoo reads the token data and runs the matching action.
The most common tokens are NFC cards, but Zaparoo also supports QR codes, barcodes, and NFC toys like Amiibo figures.
tip
The Zaparoo Shop stocks premium NFC cards with pre-printed designs ready to use with Zaparoo.
Token types
| Token | Storage | Writable | Reader needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NFC tags | 48–888 bytes | Yes | NFC reader | Cards, stickers, key fobs |
| PCB cards | NFC sticker | Yes | NFC reader | Custom PCBs with NFC stickers |
| NFC toys | UID | No (mapped) | NFC reader | Amiibo, Skylanders, and similar |
| QR codes | Text or URL | Printable | App, camera, or scanner | Free to create, no special hardware |
| Barcodes | Barcode value | Printable | App or barcode scanner | Works with existing product barcodes |
Storage
We have recommendations for storing tokens in fun and convenient ways, like cassette cases and Nintendo Switch replacement cases.
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