Zaparoo Core v2.7.0 is now available, and this release marks one of the biggest steps forward for the project so far. The new version introduces a completely revamped way of identifying games, major media database upgrades, parental controls, Linux desktop support and a long list of improvements across MiSTer, Windows and Batocera.
The biggest change is the move to Title IDs as the default format for identifying games. Instead of file paths, tokens now use identifiers like @SNES/Super Mario World, which makes them portable across all your Zaparoo devices. A card written on MiSTer will work on Windows or Batocera without any changes. Existing cards continue to work, but Title IDs are the new standard going forward.
A new tags system has also been introduced. As games are indexed, Zaparoo extracts tags such as region, language, translation status, release year, ROM quality and more. These tags can be used to resolve conflicts when you have multiple versions of the same game. Tag filtering is currently available in the bundled Web UI.
The media database has been rebuilt for speed and reliability. Updates can now be system specific, canceled mid scan, and resumed after interruptions. Searches are effectively instant, and the Web UI now supports infinite scrolling for large libraries.
Each supported platform sees improvements. MiSTer gains a completely new video playback backend and full ScummVM support. Linux desktop becomes a fully supported platform with proper installers and system integration. Windows integrates more smoothly with Steam and LaunchBox, and Batocera adds streamlined installation and improved launcher behavior.
Zaparoo 2.7.0 also introduces playtime limits for parental controls, letting users set daily limits and track gaming sessions. There is new support for MQTT home automation and an external drive reader that allows USB sticks or SD cards to act as tokens via a zaparoo.txt file.
Upgrading from 2.6.x is straightforward. All existing cards will continue to work, but users should trigger a media database update after installing the new version. The current Zaparoo App can be used, but full feature support will arrive in an upcoming update.
Download Zaparoo Core here.