Interactive QR Codes allow session administrators to introduce physical, real-world interaction into a digital game flow.
They are a powerful tool for building story-driven scenarios, scavenger hunts, and multi-stage objectives – without requiring constant online connectivity.
This feature is especially well suited for milsim events and outdoor games, where immersion and narrative progression matter.
QR codes in a session
QR codes are created and managed per session and are available only to session administrators.
To manage QR codes:
- Open the Session Management menu.
- Select QR Codes.
A list of QR codes assigned to the session is displayed.
Creating new QR codes
Using the hamburger menu in the top-right corner, an administrator can add new QR codes to the session.
Each QR code contains:
- a name, used for identification and management,
- a message, which is displayed to the player after scanning the code.
The message is embedded directly inside the QR code, which means it can be read even when the device is offline.
Storytelling and gameplay use
Interactive QR Codes are an excellent way to shape narrative-driven gameplay.
For example:
- a team discovers a physical object (e.g. a briefcase) with a QR code attached,
- scanning the code reveals a message such as:
“Move 500 meters north toward the fallen tree.” - at the next location, another QR code reveals further instructions, clues, or a puzzle.
This allows organizers to build multi-step storylines, dynamic objectives, and exploration-based gameplay using simple printed materials.
Updating and printing QR codes
QR codes can be updated at any time.
Updating a QR code generates a new QR image reflecting the updated message.
The generated QR image can be:
- downloaded directly to the device,
- saved to the Downloads folder,
- and printed for physical use during the event.
This makes preparation flexible and iteration fast.
Designed for real-world play
Unlike systems that rely purely on online triggers or scripted UI elements, Interactive QR Codes:
- work offline,
- connect the physical environment with the digital session,
- and give organizers full creative freedom.
They turn the terrain itself into part of the game.
Scanning QR codes during gameplay
To interact with QR codes placed in the field, players use the built-in QR code scanner available in AFT.
Scanning is designed to be fast and reliable, even in outdoor and offline conditions. Once a QR code is scanned, its embedded message is immediately displayed on the screen.
For a step-by-step guide on how to scan QR codes during a session, see: Scanning QR Codes.