Semantic Search in LaunchBox and Big Box

📋 Summary

Introduce a semantic search system in both LaunchBox and Big Box to allow for natural language search queries and improve the discoverability of games.

❗ Problem

Current search only works with exact keyword matches. Users must know the specific title, genre, or developer to find what they’re looking for. This makes discovery difficult, especially for large libraries or less-remembered titles.

💡 Proposal

Replace or augment the current keyword search with a semantic search model that understands natural language queries.

Examples of how users might search:

• “co-op games for a party”

• “open world sci-fi games with strong world building”

• “games similar to Chrono Trigger”

• “short puzzle games for two players”

Bonus:

• Voice search integration in Big Box would be especially useful for cabinet or couch setups, enabling hands-free browsing.

✅ Benefits

• Makes game discovery faster and more intuitive.

• Allows users to explore their libraries with less friction.

• Unlocks the potential of LaunchBox’s deep metadata set.

• Brings search functionality in line with modern platforms like Netflix or Steam.

📌 Example Use Cases

• Quickly find party games when friends are over.

• Ask for “good games for kids” and instantly get relevant results.

• Search by game themes, features, or mechanics without knowing exact tags.

🧠 User Comments

“It would be amazing to search for ‘RPGs with time travel’ and actually get Chrono Trigger or Radiant Historia.”

“Voice search in Big Box would be a game-changer for arcade setups.”