[feature request] Save Data Capability for Tapto NFC Cards

[Tom-Neverwinter]

While this may be considered out of scope, I propose adding a data-saving capability to Tapto NFC cards for use with MAME. Currently, Tapto NFC cards are used mainly for loading games, but incorporating a feature to save data could provide substantial benefits, especially for games that track progress or high scores.

Examples of Games with Data-Saving Features:

Derby Owners Club: Allows players to save progress, horse data, and training information, creating a long-term, engaging experience for users who want to develop their virtual horses over multiple sessions.
Initial D Arcade Stage: Players can save car modifications, race times, and progress, enabling them to continue their journey across different gaming sessions without losing their achievements.
Tekken Card Tournament: Utilizes card-based saving for player progress, character customization, and win/loss records, encouraging players to return and improve their skills.
Mario Kart Arcade GP: Offers a feature to save progress, allowing players to retain their custom characters and track records, enhancing the competitive aspect of the game.
Benefits of Adding Save Data Capability:

Saving High Scores: One of the simplest yet most engaging uses of data-saving is recording high scores. Many players are motivated by the desire to beat their previous scores or compete with others. By allowing players to save high scores on their NFC cards, we can provide a sense of achievement and encourage replayability. It also fosters friendly competition, which can be a significant draw in arcade settings.

Enhanced User Experience: Beyond high scores, the ability to save progress, customizations, and other game data creates a more personalized experience. Players can continue their journey where they left off, leading to longer engagement and a deeper connection with the games.

Encouraging Repeat Play: When players can save their achievements and progress, they are more likely to return to the game, knowing that their efforts are preserved. This increases the appeal of games that involve ongoing progress or development, such as character customization or storyline advancement.

Community Growth and Innovation: Introducing save data functionality aligns with the open-source ethos by inviting community contributions and innovation. Developers can create new games or modify existing ones to use this feature, expanding the MAME ecosystem.

Compatibility and Flexibility: This feature can be adapted across various games that support card-based saving, providing a versatile tool for developers and users. The community can explore new ways to utilize Tapto NFC cards, leading to innovative applications and improvements.

Implementation Considerations:

Open-Source Integration: Ensuring that the data-saving functionality is easy to implement and use in various MAME-compatible games will encourage widespread adoption.
Security and Privacy: Protecting the saved data is essential to maintain user trust and prevent data loss or corruption.
User Interface and Experience: An intuitive interface for managing saved data will ensure that users can easily save, access, and manage their game data, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion:

Incorporating data-saving capabilities into Tapto NFC cards, especially for features like high scores, would enhance the gaming experience and contribute to the growth of the MAME community. This functionality would provide players with a more engaging and rewarding experience, driving repeat play and fostering a vibrant community around MAME.

[wizzomafizzo]

Sorry for not replying to this, I thought I had already.

I really like the idea! It's cool. But I'll have to have a long think about where this will fit well into the overall architecture. The ability to store and update data on the cards is really cool. Though it also feels a bit risky, idk.

Anyway I appreciate you going to the effort and writing this up in so much detail. I'm sorry again if it looked like I ignored it. It's been on my mind a few times. I'd like to keep this open and hopefully work it in later.

[Tom-Neverwinter]

No worries at all; I completely understand. I'm glad you like the idea! Even if it doesn't fit into the overall architecture right now, I hope it sparks some ideas or could be beneficial down the line.

I can't help but think back to the arcades over the past decade or so—places like Dave & Buster's—where games like Mario Kart GP, Initial D, and Derby Owners Club used player cards to store and update data. These features made players feel very included and added a personal touch to the gaming experience, even if there were some risks involved.

I believe incorporating similar elements could enhance user engagement, but I understand it needs careful consideration. Thanks for taking the time to think about it, and I'm happy to keep this open for future discussions

[edit for morning brain fog]