Here is what a simplified version of a Fightcade JSON file looks like:
Download the ZIP file containing the JSON files (typically from Fightcade.guide ).
| Problem | Likely JSON cause | |---------|--------------------| | Game not appearing in lobby list | Missing or wrong game_id in JSON | | "ROM not found" despite having the file | Your ZIP name not listed in roms array | | Wrong region loaded | Fightcade picks first match; reorder array | | BIOS error | Missing bios field or wrong BIOS name | fightcade json
Instead of risking a random downloader, use the "Check ROMs" button inside Fightcade. It will read your existing JSON files and output a list of missing CRCs. Paste those into Google.
As of late 2024 and 2025, Fightcade has been moving toward for certain cores. The Flycast core (Dreamcast/Naomi) now uses a different manifest system. However, the classic FB Neo (FinalBurn Neo) core still relies entirely on Fightcade JSON. Here is what a simplified version of a
Right-click the application icon in Finder, choose Show Package Contents , then navigate to Contents/MacOS/Emulator/ .
Fightcade JSON is based on the JSON data format, which is widely used in web development for representing and exchanging data between systems. However, Fightcade JSON extends JSON by adding custom data types and structures that are specific to fighting games. This allows developers and players to represent complex fighting game data, such as character moves, combos, and animations, in a standardized and easily-readable format. Paste those into Google
"name": "Kick", "input": "QCB + K", "damage": 30
(This URL may require a user-agent or token in newer versions; otherwise use the locally cached file.)