Creating Platform Icons Media Packs for LaunchBox and Big Box
Written By Brian Faeran
Last updated 10 months ago
Platform Icons are used to represent Categories, Platforms, and Playlists within LaunchBox and Big Box. By default, these icons are primarily displayed in LaunchBox's side menu, which lists all platforms, platform categories, and playlists. They add a visual flair and help users navigate their libraries.
This guide explains how content creators can design and customize Platform Icons Media Packs to suit their needs.
Where to Find Existing Platform Icon Media Packs
To start, browse the existing Platform Icons Media Packs:
Look in the folder:
LaunchBox\Images\Media Packs\Platform Icons.The Nostalgia pack contains over 300 default icons, providing a great base or inspiration for your designs.
These examples showcase the available icons and can be used as a foundation for your own pack.
If your pack is missing specific icons, it will default to the Nostalgia pack to ensure every platform, category, and playlist is covered. Therefore, you can focus on creating niche packs, such as Playlist Icon Packs or packs of missing icons if you so desire.
How to Create Your Custom Platform Icon Pack
Creating a Platform Icon pack is straightforward. Here's the workflow:
Step 1: Duplicate an Existing Pack
Copy the folder of an existing pack (like the Nostalgia pack) from
LaunchBox\Images\Media Packs\Platform Icons.
Step 2: Rename Your Folder
Rename the folder to the name of your new pack. This name will appear in both LaunchBox and Big Box for selection.
Step 3: Remove the "Version" File
If the copied folder contains a
Versionfile, delete it. This ensures your pack is treated as unique.
Step 4: Replace the Icons
Replace the existing icons within the folder with your own designs.
Delete any icons you do not wish to cover in your pack.
Keep in mind that Platform Icons are displayed within a 24x24 area, so design with this size constraint in mind.
Testing Your Platform Icon Pack
To ensure your pack works correctly, test it in both LaunchBox and Big Box:
In LaunchBox:
Navigate to Tools > Manage > Theme and Media Manager.
Find your Platform Icons pack and click Apply to both LaunchBox and Big Box.
Verify that your icons are displayed properly and are visible in all intended locations.
Publishing Your Platform Icon Pack
Once your pack is finalized and tested:
Upload to Forums:
Share your Platform Icon pack on the forums under the appropriate section for user feedback.
Submit to the LaunchBox Media Website:
Go to LaunchBox Media Uploads and submit your pack.
You must be logged in to the forums, as your username will be listed as the author.
Submission Guidelines:
Use a version number format like
1.0or1.01(avoid1.0.1).Include screenshots of your icons, similar to those in existing packs.
Ensure all information is filled out during submission to avoid rejection.
Once submitted, the LaunchBox team will review your pack and either approve it or provide feedback for revisions.