How to Swap Game Discs in Batocera

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of swapping game discs while playing games on Batocera using platforms like EmulationStation or Retroarch. You’ll learn how to create .m3u files specifically for games on consoles such as PlayStation, Sega Saturn, Sega CD, and GameCube. This method allows for continuous gameplay without interruptions when changing discs.

Step 1: Prepare Your Game Files

1. Locate Your Game Discs

   • Ensure you have the game disc files ready (e.g., CD1 and CD2 for Star Wars: Rebel Assault II).

2. Access the Roms Folder

   • Connect a keyboard to your Batocera system.
   • Press Escape and then F1 to open the file browser.
   • Navigate to the roms folder, then into the appropriate console folder (e.g., PlayStation).

3. Create the .m3u File

   • Select the first disc file (e.g., star_wars_rebel_assault_cd1).
   • Rename the file (copy the name using Ctrl + C).
   • Create a new empty file and paste the copied name, changing the extension to .m3u.
   • Open the new .m3u file in a text editor.
   • Add the following lines:

     [Your Game Title]
     disc 1
     disc 2
     

   • Ensure there’s a blank line between each entry.
   • Save and exit the file.

4. Update the Game List

   • Press Start on your gamepad.
   • Navigate to Game Settings and select Update Games List.

Step 2: Hide Original Disc Files

1. Access Game Options

   • Select the game you created the .m3u file for.
   • Press Select on your gamepad and go to Game Options.

2. Edit Metadata

   • Choose Edit This Game's Metadata and hide the original disc files (CD1 and CD2).
   • Save the changes.

Step 3: Configure Emulator Settings

1. Select the Right Emulator

   • Navigate to Game Options and then to Advanced Game Options.
   • Choose a compatible emulator like DuckStation or Beetle Saturn that supports disc swapping.

2. Load the Game

   • Select the game and press Start to begin playing.
   • When prompted to swap discs, follow the next steps.

Step 4: Swap the Discs During Gameplay

1. Initiate Disc Change

   • When the game requests a different disc, press the hotkey and the A button simultaneously to access the RetroArch menu.

2. Select Current Disc

   • Go to Current Disk and choose the appropriate disc (e.g., Disc 2).
   • Insert the selected disc.

3. Resume Gameplay

   • Continue playing seamlessly with the new disc loaded.

Step 5: Specific Instructions for Other Consoles

• Sega Saturn and Sega CD

  • Repeat the steps to create .m3u files for games with multiple discs.
  • Use the corresponding emulator for optimal performance.

• GameCube

  • Ensure Dolphin emulator settings are configured to automatically detect disc changes.
  • Follow similar steps for creating .m3u files and updating the game list.

Conclusion

You have successfully learned how to swap game discs for various consoles in Batocera. By creating .m3u files and configuring emulator settings, you can enjoy uninterrupted gameplay. For further enhancements, consider experimenting with different emulators and keep your game files organized. Stay tuned for upcoming tutorials on installing Windows games and adding DOS games to your Batocera setup.