Pico-8 QR-code distributable games (How to)
With the addition of the Save @Url feature along with the web runner for educational purposes we got a mobile optimized means of sharing games via a URL. And one thing that QR codes are decent at is allowing users with phones to scan the symbols and redirect to webpages.
Here are the steps to make it happen.
1. Have the right version of Pico-8
You should be able to accomplish this from any version of Pico-8 that is (0.2.4c) or above. This includes the free educational version.
2. Limitations and considerations
While you will be limited both by Pico-8's 2048 limit for using this method & QR code limitations depending on the type of QR code used this is still a very unique and interesting alternative to cartridges to share your Pico-8 games with a quick scan immediately playable on a friends phone.
When saving the game as a URL only the code and graphics will be stored. That means other elements (like sounds) will probably need to be handled directly in code perhaps with print control codes.
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