First Time Setup

Setting up your Operator device is quick and easy. Follow these steps to start playing your cartridges on your computer.

What you’ll need

• An Operator device (GB Operator or SN Operator)
• The included USB-A to USB-C cable
• A computer running Windows®, macOS®, or Linux
• A game cartridge

Step 1: Download Playback

Download the Playback app for your operating system from our downloads page.

• Windows: Run the installer and follow the prompts
• macOS: Open the DMG and drag Playback to your Applications folder
• Linux: Download the AppImage and make it executable

For detailed platform-specific instructions, see our setup guides for Windows, macOS, or Linux.

Step 2: Connect your Operator

1. Plug the USB-A to USB-C cable into your Operator device
2. Connect the other end to your computer
3. The LED on your Operator should light up

If the LED doesn’t light up, try a different USB port or cable. Some USB hubs may not provide enough power.

Step 3: Insert a cartridge

Insert your game cartridge into the Operator device with the label facing towards you. Push it in gently until it clicks into place.

Step 4: Launch Playback

Open the Playback app. It will automatically detect your Operator device and read the inserted cartridge.

From here you can:

• Play: Click the Play tab to start your game
• Data: Click the Data tab to manage saves and back up your cartridge

Troubleshooting

Operator not detected?

• Make sure the USB cable is fully connected
• Try a different USB port (preferably directly on your computer, not a hub)
• On Linux, you may need to set up udev rules
• See our device not recognized guide

Cartridge not reading?

• Remove and reinsert the cartridge
• Check that the cartridge contacts are clean
• See our cartridge cleaning guide

Next steps

Once you’re set up, explore what Playback can do:

• Keyboard Shortcuts — Learn the controls
• Save Vault — Automatic save backups
• Rewind and Fast-Forward — Speed up or undo gameplay
• Video and Audio Settings — Customize visuals and sound
• Updating Playback — Keep your app up to date