How-To Guides
Guides (62)
There are many useful resources online to help you build, setup and configure your Light Gun arcade.
We have made a list of websites which might be of interest to you, along with resources and How-To videos we've found. If you come across any guides that you think should be shared in our Light Gun community, please let us know below. 😀 All suggestions will be reviewed before adding them to this page.
We hope these guides and links are helpful. If you need assistance, we recommend going to the Light Gun Lunatics Facebook page where our members are always willing to give their advice.
Suggest a How-To Guide?
5 June 2024
Are you handy at DIY and want to make yourself some arcade lightgun foot pedals? Watch this video from Pete at Light Gun Lunatics for a step-by-step guide which includes adding a microswitch and USB encoder so you can play games like Time Crisis 5 with twin-pedals.
As a guide, the cost is around USD 80 per pedal. 😁
31 May 2024
If you have a lot of games, manually remapping Teknoparrot settings can be a pain. In this video, we will show you a simple fix so you don't have to remap drive letters when you move libraries. Peter's video will help those moving Teknoparrot games/libraries from one drive to another, including any in your builds like LaunchBox. e.g. moving from R: drive to say E: drive
Note: You can also utilise Notepad ++ to do a bulk search and replace if you have large Teknoparrot libraries.
16 May 2024
Another video from TKS Sitch Gaming, this how-to guide shows you how to map your controllers using the CTRLR file.
This will prevent MAME from reconfiguring your controls and changing controller order upon reboot or when plugging in new devices. It only covers the basics of what you need to know but is relevant to both lightguns and hand-held controllers.
15 May 2024
Thanks to YouTuber and friend of LGL, TKS Sitch Gaming, we have a full setup guide for using MAME in Launchbox. This setup is for general use - not lightgun specific or meant to be combined with any existing builds - but the same principles apply.
It covers the process from finding roms to running your games in this awesome front end.
10 April 2024
Thanks to Gonezo from Fusion Light Guns, we have a short video on how to add games made for windows to Batocera 39. This method uses J-Config & Wine with a step-by-step tutorial.
Note:
This features how to load up Luigi's Mansion but the same principles can be used for other games.
5 April 2024
If you're having issues where your crosshairs are stuck on Dark Escape, Deadstorm Pirates and Sailor Zombie then here is a solution thanks to Jasen Baker from Integrum Retro.
This video shows you a quick fix on how to properly patch them using Demulshooter.
Show your appreciation by subscribing to Integrum Retro's YouTube Channel.
4 April 2024
Thanks to Yoh from LGL, who made us aware of the Lichtknarre project. While the software is still in beta status, Lichtknarre is a Wii Tracker Plugin that allows you play with two LED sensor bars using a standard Wii remote and accessories. This is primarily for smaller screens but for larger screens, a four way IR sensor option is also available via the website link.
Note:
The Genuine Wii Sensor bar contains 10 x 980nm LED's so you could disassemble to use for the four LED-tracking mentioned above (and you will still have a six spares for another project!). Thanks to Egyboi from LGL for sharing this information and the link below.
Outdoor Target Positioning Using Wii Remote IR Camera and Signal Modulation
29 March 2024
Thanks to Arcade Pirate, we present a detailed setup guide for The Walking Dead on TeknoParrot which also includes adding it to your LaunchBox/BigBox build.
Note:
The information provided is not specific to TWD either. You can follow this for other TecknoParrot titles requiring a subscription.
27 March 2024
New games (and updates) emulated with J-Config thanks to Let's Play Games.
This video covers the following Light Gun titles:
- Akuma Mortis Immortal
- Aliens Extermination
- Castlevania
- Elevator Action Invasion
- Gundam Spirits of Zeon
- Lethal Enforcers 3
- Silent Hill
J-Config files can be found here.
There are also other games in the RAR file but those listed above relate to the Light Guns.
Note:
You may get a false warning that the files are dangerous.
11 March 2024
Another J-Config tutorial from Let's Play Games on how to run Mobile Suits Gundam - Spirits of Zeon without a Teknoparrot subscription. This version now works with 2 players in split screen.
This video covers how to setup the screen for two-player mode, bezels and control options ie. using a mouse, a single Lightgun or two Lightguns.
Link for screen fix is available here.
A shout out to pandemonium for screen fix files.
7 February 2024
Lirik shows a quick video on achieving borderless windows using a program called "BorderlessWindowed". If compatible, it allows games to be run in borderless window mode which may come in handy with AHK scripting (or you can also assign a HotKey if you prefer to toggle it on an off).
Warning:
This program works on many games that do not have borderless options but it may not work on all.
You can also check out this Github page which is another option.
5 February 2024
This tutorial from Youtuber Let's Play Games will show you how to configure Lightgun games on the Sega Ring Edge and Sega Ring Wide using the J-Config emulator.
Modes:
- 1 Player with Mouse
- 1 Player with Lightgun
- 2 simultaneous players with Lightgun
Games include Dream Riders, Let's Go Island, Golden Gun, Operation GHOST and Transformers Human Alliance
22 January 2024
Thanks to LGL member Brad, here is a guide to assist you with setup of MameHooker for those of you with Gun4IR.
Mamehooker is a game-changer and Brad's video includes links to the software, as well as a sample ini file to get you up and running.
Note:
If you get an invalid link for MameHooker, make sure your browser points to the http:// URL and not https://. You might get a warning that it's an "insecure" site, but proceed without issues.
22 January 2024
How to setup Operation GHOST with R-Config to show the game in fullscreen with 2-players simultaneously.
20 January 2024
One of the most popular arcade games has been released thanks to the Teknogods team - Jurassic Park Arcade. This video will give you tips on TeknoParrot settings to get it up and running!
Media Link: Media available here from Arcade Punks
15 January 2024
This will cover setting up TeknoParrot in Launchbox and Media
Note:
Part 1 covers setting up the Teknoparrot UI and running Aliens: Extermination.
14 January 2024
This will cover setting up the Teknoparrot UI and running Aliens: Extermination
Note:
Part 2 will cover setting this up within LaunchBox/Bigbox plus Media setup.
1 December 2023
American Laser Games media and bezel
Media Link: Media available here
30 November 2023
Full Action Max setup for Worlds of Wonder
Media Link: Media available here
25 November 2023
Thanks to the popular emulation YouTuber, Just Jamie, we have a full setup guide for Teknoparrot games using the LaunchBox front end.
You can also view his full playlist of other LaunchBox Guides.
17 November 2023
If you're having issues with Wild West Shootout (P2 fires P1 gun), there's a thread on Github here that might help:
Wild West Shootout issue 114
See additional information/solution on our Facebook page by clicking on the image above.
If you are looking for the Assembly-CSharp.dll file, it's available here:
Assembly-CSharp.dll
17 November 2023
Full Sega Model 3 Setup - media files in link below.
Media Link: Media available here
16 November 2023
Full Sega Hikaru Setup - media files in link below.
Media Link: Media available here
15 November 2023
Full Sammy Atomiswave Setup - media Files in link below.
Media Link: Media available here
14 November 2023
This goes over making an easy access platform for common use tools used for setting up emulator and other goodies.
Also useful for making build easy portable.
Note:
Can be useful for guns other than Sinden - just change Sinden elements with whichever elements are tied to your gun.
8 November 2023
Full setup guide for Naomi with most ROM's running in English text.
ROM files: List of ROM files required (PDF)
Media Link: Media available here
Note:
* Ninja Assault had issues (settings did not save after exiting the game). If TKS Sitch can find a way to make settings stable for that rom, he will do an update.
* In-game settings won't save but he may found a solution and will update after doing testing
6 November 2023
Here are a some instructions (courtesy of Roman Alexander Guelfi-Gibbs) that will allow you to setup a Wii-Mote using either a generic IR Lightbar or Mayflash Dolphin Bar.
The first, using a generic Infrared Lightbar, is the easiest and most accurate way to setup your Wii-motes but we've also included instructions for the original Mayflash Dolphin Bar. The latter still works great (and is especially good for Wii only titles) but it's not as good as the generic IR Bar for general lightgun gaming.
1. Setup Wii-motes with Generic IR Lightbar in Batocera
- Plug in generic IR Bar
- Load Batocera
- Navigate to Wii. Go into the game list. Hit Select, then Advanced System Options. Make sure the Emulator is set to Libretro-Dolphin. Scroll down to "Controller 1 Type" and click it. Select "WiiMote+Nunchuck". Do the same for player 2 if you plan on having an additional player. Next scroll up to Emulator. Choose Dolphin. The regular Dolphin emulator is best for using Wii-motes
- Get your Wii-mote ready. Open the battery door. There is a red button. You will press it in a moment.
- Hit Start, then Controllers & Bluetooth Settings. Move the highlighter to "Pair Bluetooth Pads Automatically". Don't press it yet.
- Hit the red button in the Wii-mote battery compartment. The 4 blue lights on the front will blink.
- Back to Batocera, click on "Pair Bluetooth Pads Automatically". Give it a moment or two to pair. If it pairs, you'll see a message in the upper part of the screen that says "Nintendo RVL..." or something similar. Now the Wii-mote is paired. You do not have to map it in Controllers & Bluetooth. It is set. If it won't pair in Bluetooth, try again a few times. If there are many Bluetooth devices in the room, they can delay or hold up your Wii-mote from pairing. No worries. Keep trying and it will work.
- To Calibrate your Wii-motes, Stand 5+ feet back from the screen, hold the Home button (recessed button between minus and plus buttons) for 10 seconds. A message will appear mention calibration. Carefully aim and shoot the crosshair in the middle of the screen. The crosshair will then move to the top left corner of the screen. Carefully aim and shoot it. Now your lightgun will be calibrated and significantly more accurate. You can do the process again if needed.
- Your Wii-motes will play Wii games just like they were meant to. All buttons and functions will be just like when you used the original console.
- Lightgun games from other systems will also work. You can use the Wii-mote as a regular wireless lightgun. In arcade Mame, hit the - on the Wii-mote to insert coins. Then hit the trigger or + to start a game. To exit the game, use your player 1 joystick or controller Start+Select buttons.
2. Wii-Mote connected to Dolphin Bar for use with Wii gaming only
- Plug in Dolphin Bar
- Load Batocera
- Navigate to Wii. Go into the game list. Hit Select, then Advanced System Options. Click on Emulator. Choose Dolphin. The regular Dolphin emulator is best for using Wii-motes.
- Get your Wii-mote ready. Open the battery door. There is a red button. You will press it in a moment.
- Press the Mode button on top (right side) of the Dolphin Bar and stop at Mode 4. Next, hit the Sync button on top of the Dolphin Bar (top left side) the blue light should start flashing.
- Hit the red button in the Wii-mote battery compartment. The 4 blue lights on the front will blink. The blinking will stop once it is synced with the Dolphin Bar.
Playing Lightgun Games with Dolphin Bar and Wii-Motes
- Press the Mode button on top right of the Dolphin Bar. Choose Mode 2 (Mode 1 is more accurate but it locks the crosshair when you fire). Hit Button on Wii-Mote and it will sync automatically with the Dolphin Bar.
- In this Mode, the Wii-Mote is like an air mouse. It will not be as accurate as when playing Wii games, or when using a generic IR bar and pairing the Wii-Mote directly with Batocera Bluetooth.
- The lightgun portion will work, but you won't be able to calibrate it. To make it more accurate, you have to move the cursor to the sides of the screen until it's centered.
- Trigger button (B) underneath is fire, and the A button on top is secondary weapon. Insert coins by hitting Select button on your Player 1 joystick or controller.
- You may want to map individual games to use the buttons on the Wii-Mote. By default, the B trigger button on bottom will be the fire button and the A button on top will be the secondary fire button (grenades, etc). You can remap fire and secondary buttons, as well as insert coin, and start buttons. If you need to remap Mame Arcade games, you can do that using the Mame Menu. Refer to any of my step by step docs on mapping using the Mame Menu. The principles and steps are the same.
Batocera Wii-mote Setup Video Tutorials
Wii-motes are great wireless lightguns and are almost necessary to play many Wii games. Here are some easy to follow tutorials that walk you thru setup with either a generic IR bar (like the Aimtrak bar) or a Mayflash Dolphin Bar.
Setup Wii-mote with Generic IR Bar and pair in Controllers & BluetoothVideo
Setup Wii-mote as lightgun with Dolphin Bar
Batocera Nation:
Video 1 and Video 2
Wii-mote & Dolphin Bar Setup Guide
Retro Gaming Guy:
Video 1 and Video 2
1 November 2023
The latest video in his Sinden Builders Guide, TKS Sitch covers Sega Model 2 emulation and setting up Reshade and Demulshooter.
PDF is available here for the ROM files you need:
Required ROM files
Note: Be sure to use Merged ROM's for this
1 November 2023
Shawn has created this quick guide on our Facebook page to show you how to setup your controllers in MAME.
While it's based on Aimtrak, the process can be applied to other light gun models and brands.
30 October 2023
Thanks to Jerome, Shawn and John from the vPin community, we have some free instructions on how to get your Virtual Pinball Machine to have Light Guns on the backbox. As usual, there is a learning curve here (more to do with vPin than anything) but feel free to pass around to others we gladly share our knowledge.
View PDF Guide
27 October 2023
A long running problem with MAME is that the controllers randomly map to codes when launching MAME. Previously utilities are cumbersome and don't fully fix the issue. MAME has created a fix, but in many cases it will not allow the configuration file to run correctly.
Maverick's arcade figured out the problem and made a complete this how to video back in 2017 to address the issue.
27 October 2023
Here’s some details about a custom mapping file in MAME that will prevent your Aimtrak guns and joysticks from changing their ID number randomly after reboots.
Video is from 2020 thanks to LGL member, Brad Diederichs, who details how to do this with Aimtrak. While the video was created a little while ago, the fundamentals are the same.
27 October 2023
Full guide for installing Sega Master System and media. This is the same method as with the previous NES video.
10 October 2023
Sometimes a follow up to a video will be needed.
Nothing fancy with these but will address some issues some users may experience, or information I fail to put in with the related video.
Have a good day peeps!
7 October 2023
At the end of this one we will be ready to play some games!!!! Thank you for those that made it this far. I hope this video will help you reap some benefits. Still more videos to come before we are done with Launchbox mame.
4 October 2023
This video from TKS Sitch Gaming shows us where to find roms and how to download them for his BigBox Sinden Build.
PDF is available here for the ROM files you need:
ROM's needed
15 September 2023
This is a link to a guide put together by TKS Sitch Gaming. It's a basic Sinden setup but it will get you running a 1 gun pc setup on MAME. All information is here, so between this and the Sinden wiki guide, everything you need is there. Enjoy and have fun!!
4 September 2023
A how-to guide for Gun4IR user with solenoids. There's a Mamehooker package ready to go to sync your solenoid with the sound of gunfire coming the following emulators with games that show outputs - Flycast, MAME, PCLauncher, Sega Model 2 Emulator and SuperModel. The package was put together by PacfikBalla.
1 September 2023
While not technically light gun games per se, itch.io is included as it allows you to find indie games online for free (or a small cost).
itch.io allows game developers a marketplace where they can control their content.
Tapping/clicking the image above will send a search string for On-Rails Shooter games but you can modify and search for others on the site as well.
30 July 2023
Re-assign controllers - thanks to Andy in providing this god-send. You will find this really useful for your windows setup.
29 July 2023
Thanks to our resident expert Réda's guidance, build yourself a Batocera light gun build.
In this first tutorial, you will learn how to setup your Wiimote/Sinden Lightgun for light gun games in Batocera. This is mainly for PC, but the process is similar to other platforms (ex. Raspberry Pi 4).
Light gun support is possible only in v35 and beyond.
29 July 2023
Seems to be a few asking about teknoparrot so here's a new tutorial.
For anybody wanting to get Teknoparrot running. Here's a very easy to follow setup guide designed for beginners from retro gaming YouTuber, Just Jamie.
8 July 2023
Launchbox teknoparrot tutorial. Pretty basic and less work than the older method. If you had problems getting tekno going, give this method a shot (provide your own games of course, those details in the featured database)
6 June 2023
Gustav's very helpful video for Gun4IR builders.
It's not a beginners guide but he's added in text to clarify which wire goes where and we can see what a modded gun looks from the inside. Thanks for your work Gustav 👏
22 March 2023
A massive amount of time has gone into this project by Warped Polygon! He's pre-configured everything for this Supermodel emulator and is presenting it in a way that is usable for PC, Controller and Mouse with minimal effort.
Yes, it's Light Gun ready!
24 June 2021
This how-to video shows you how to configure your guns with the dolphin bar. Brad's channel has other great how to content as well.
7 January 2020
Not specific to light guns but here's a video from The Geek Page to show you how to add Exclusions for Windows Defender in Windows 10.
For Windows 11 also available here:
W11 Defender Exclusions
Disclaimer
Firstly, thank you to the authors, builders and light gun hobby contributors - without you, this hobby would have died in the 80s! We take no responsibility for any issues caused by the above how-to guides. We always recommend you research further before making changes on your system.