MiSTer Companion v7.9.0 adds DVD player support to the Install Center

Developer Anime0t4ku released version 7.9.0 of the MiSTer Companion utility today. The update adds DVD-Player support directly into the software's Install Center and deploys fixes for the ZapScripts database. It is available now as a free download across PC, Linux, Android, and Nintendo Switch.

The MiSTer FPGA project has grown into the leading hardware simulation platform for retro gaming. Unlike software emulators, the system uses cycle-accurate FPGA cores to recreate the actual circuit behavior of vintage arcade machines, microcomputers, and classic game consoles. The hardware covers everything from the NES and Sega Genesis to the Neo Geo, Sega Saturn, and Sony PlayStation. The tradeoff for that zero-lag accuracy is a steep learning curve. Managing a MiSTer setup historically required Linux terminal commands, manual configuration edits, and FTP transfers.

You probably already use update_all

MiSTer Companion is one of the most useful tools for the platform. It automates core system maintenance tasks over a local network connection. The tool manages standard scripts like update_all, which downloads the latest arcade cores, BIOS files, and system updates automatically. It also handles save file syncing and assists with SD card migration. It removes the need to memorize command-line prompts for routine maintenance.

The version 7.9.0 update repairs a database issue within the ZapScripts launcher system. ZapScripts allow users to trigger specific functions on the MiSTer hardware, and the database fix ensures those commands execute properly from the Companion interface.

Physical media on FPGA

The addition of DVD-Player support to the Install Center builds on Anime0t4ku's ongoing work with physical media. The developer previously created the Main_MiSTer_Physical_Disc fork, which allows the FPGA hardware to interface with actual CD and DVD drives. Integrating the DVD-Player setup into the main Companion app makes it easier to configure external optical drives for disc-based cores.

Anime0t4ku has a history of building utilities that extend the base functionality of the Terasic DE10-Nano board. Alongside the Companion app, the developer maintains the NFC-Card-Generator and MiSTer_Hi-Fi projects. These tools focus on bridging the gap between digital ROM libraries and physical interactions, whether through NFC tags or actual optical media.

Four different platforms

The utility is completely cross-platform. You can run it on a standard Windows PC or Linux desktop, but it also has native builds for Android and the Nintendo Switch. Having a mobile or handheld option for network management is incredibly convenient. You do not need to keep a laptop open next to your MiSTer just to run an update script, back up your memory cards, or change a system setting. You can handle all the file management directly from your phone or a hacked Switch while sitting on the couch.