LaunchBox

Note: To update to beta releases, go to Tools -> Options -> Updates and check "Update to Beta Releases".

Chances are you have a rich game collection, either on disc somewhere, already installed, or inside an online library. What’s more, popular marketplaces come with their own libraries, but you might own titles from different sources. In this regard, LaunchBox comes with the means to create a single, powerful database for your entire video game collection.

Once the application is successfully installed on your computer and launched, you’re greeted by a game import wizard. On the bright side of things, it can save an enormous amount of time if most of your games are already installed, and you can launch the wizard at any given moment. There is also the option to manually add entries, even if they’re not installed.

Deciding to add a game manually is not really a hassle, but mostly time-consuming. Various fields can be filled in, ranging from title and developer, to location on your computer, region, version, as well as emulator details if needed. More than this, some detail fields can be automatically filled in through a quick online lookup, including images and media.

The application offers quite a variety of tools with which to make your collection feel personal. It’s possible to directly install DOS games, or manage preferred emulators and platforms. AutoHotkey scripts can be used for better integration with DOSBox, ScummVM, and Windows games. When not exactly sure what to play, the application can randomly select an item from the list.

As far as documenting your collection goes, the application does quite a good job, displaying existing information, especially when you bring up the details section. However, the program also wants to be the way you launch and play games, which can keep your desktop free of all kinds of shortcuts. As mentioned, games you add to the library don’t necessarily need to be installed, unless you want the play option to be available from the application menu.

All things considered, we can state that LaunchBox is almost every gamer’s virtual room. With support for retro games, various types of emulators, but also modern game libraries like Steam and GOG, it’s sure to quickly become the place you frequently update and use to launch your favorite games.