switch-auto

A tool that lets a PC watch the Nintendo Switch screen, press buttons and progress through games automatically. It captures the screen with a capture card and operates the console by acting as a controller over Bluetooth.

View on GitHub

Features

Watch progress on the dashboard

The dashboard opens in your browser. It shows the Switch screen, the buttons being pressed and where the run currently is. You can check progress even from another room.

Stops and hands over when automation is not possible

When something does not go as planned, or just before a scene that cannot be automated, the PC releases all buttons and stops. It notifies you with an alert and a sound. You play that part yourself, then hand control back to the PC.

Manual control from the keyboard

From the browser where the dashboard is open, you can control the Switch with your PC keyboard. When it is your turn, you can carry on without picking up a controller.

Sharing the work between you and the PC

Not everything is automated. You and the PC share the work.

WhoWhat
PCScenes that always need the same input: dialogue, cutscenes, menus, battles and so on
YouPreparing each run and scenes that do not always need the same input

You only take over where the PC is weak, so the runs keep going without getting stuck.

What you need

  • A PC running Linux (tested on Ubuntu; it does not run directly on Windows or Mac)
  • A Bluetooth adapter that works with NUXBT
  • An HDMI capture card (one that can capture at 1280×720)
  • A Nintendo Switch and a supported game

The game language must be set to Japanese. The tool reads the screen using the Japanese version of the game, so it does not work with other languages as is. If you want to play in English, the code is available on GitHub. Modify it for the English screens and use it.

For details, see each feature page and the README on GitHub.

What it can do

Pokémon Legends: Z-A: Mystery Gift runs

Starts the game with a new user and automatically plays up to the point where you can receive a Mystery Gift.

Learn more

Rules

  • Online use is prohibited. Using this automation for online battles, trades or any other online features is prohibited.
  • Any use that violates the terms of service of the game or related services is prohibited. Check the terms before use.
  • The author is not responsible for any damage caused by its use.

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