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Getting Started

Let's get HyperHQ installed and your arcade setup on its way.

What You'll Need​

Before you start, make sure you have:

  • Windows 10 or newer (Windows 11 works great too)
  • An internet connection for downloading the app and media
  • A HyperSpin account (sign up at HyperSpin-fe.com)
  • Some games (ROM files) you want to play
  • Emulators for the systems you want to run (MAME, RetroArch, standalone emulators, etc.)

Don't worry if you don't have everything yet—you can add things as you go.

Installing HyperHQ​

  1. Download HyperHQ from HyperSpin-fe.com
  2. Run the installer and follow the prompts
  3. Launch HyperHQ from your Start menu or desktop shortcut

That's it! The app will open and guide you through the rest.

First Launch: The Setup Wizard​

When you first open HyperHQ, you'll see the setup wizard. This walks you through the essentials to get you up and running.

Step 1: Sign In​

Enter your HyperSpin account credentials. This lets HyperHQ:

  • Download themes and artwork
  • Access the media library
  • Sync your settings across devices
  • Connect with the community

Don't have an account? Head to HyperSpin-fe.com to create one. It's free!

Step 2: Optional Services​

You'll be asked if you want to connect additional services:

EmuMovies If you have an EmuMovies account, sign in here to download gameplay videos and additional artwork. This is optional—you can skip it and add it later in settings.

HyperTheme Already using HyperTheme? You can connect your account here. Also optional and can be set up later.

Step 3: Choose Your HyperSpin Folder​

HyperHQ needs to know where to install HyperSpin and store all your stuff. You have two options:

Use the Default Location (Recommended for new users)

  • Windows: C:/ProgramData/HyperSpin/
  • This creates a clean, organized setup automatically

Choose a Custom Location

  • Pick any folder you want
  • Useful if you have a specific drive or location in mind
  • HyperHQ will create the necessary folders for you
Storage Space

Themes, artwork, and videos can take up a lot of space. If you have a secondary drive with more room, this is a good time to use it!

Step 4: Install Core Plugins​

HyperHQ will automatically install the essential plugins you need to get started. This includes:

  • Core system plugins
  • Basic theme support
  • Essential utilities

You'll see a progress counter as plugins install. This usually takes just a minute or two.

Step 5: You're In!​

Once the wizard finishes, you're ready to start building your arcade. The main HyperHQ interface will open, and you can start adding systems and games.

What to Do Next​

Now that HyperHQ is installed, here's the typical flow:

1. Add Your First System​

Click the Add System button in the Systems section. This is where you tell HyperHQ what you want to play—arcade games, Sega, PlayStation, whatever you've got.

See the Managing Systems guide for details.

2. Import Your Games​

Once you add a system, HyperHQ can automatically scan for game files (ROMs) in the folders you specify. It'll find them and add them to your library.

Check out Working With Games for the full story.

3. Download Artwork​

Games look a lot better with artwork! HyperHQ makes it easy to download wheel images, backgrounds, videos, and more from the HyperTheme library.

Learn more in Managing Media.

4. Configure Controllers​

If you're using arcade controls, a gamepad, or other input devices, you'll want to map your buttons. HyperHQ's controller setup makes this painless.

See Controller Setup for instructions.

Understanding the Interface​

HyperHQ's interface is straightforward once you know where things are:

Sidebar (Left)

  • Your main navigation menu
  • Quick access to Systems, Collections, Media, and Settings
  • Shows your system list when you're in Systems view

Main Area (Center)

  • This is where all the action happens
  • Content changes based on what you're doing
  • Tabs let you switch between related sections

Search (Top)

  • Quickly find games or systems
  • Works across your entire library

Settings (Bottom Left)

  • Access app settings and preferences
  • Configure paths, display options, audio, and more

Quick Tips for New Users​

Take It One System at a Time Don't try to set up everything at once. Add one system, get some games running, then move on to the next.

Start With What You Know If you're familiar with MAME or have a specific console in mind, start there. Success builds momentum.

Media Can Wait Your games will work without artwork. Get things running first, then come back and make it pretty.

Use the Search If you have hundreds of games, the search bar is your friend. It's faster than scrolling.

Check the Logs If something isn't working, Settings > View Logs can often tell you what's wrong. The error messages are actually readable.

The Community Helps Got stuck? The folks at HyperSpin-fe.com are friendly and know their stuff. Don't be shy about asking questions.

Common First-Time Questions​

Do I need to install HyperSpin separately? Nope! HyperHQ handles the HyperSpin setup for you. Just pick your installation folder and it takes care of the rest.

What emulators should I use? That depends on what systems you want to play. RetroArch is a great all-in-one option. MAME is perfect for arcade games. Check our Managing Systems guide for recommendations.

How much disk space do I need? Plan for at least 50-100GB if you want themes, artwork, and videos. More if you have a large game collection.

Can I move my HyperSpin folder later? Yes, but it's easier to pick the right location from the start. If you need to move it, you'll need to update paths in HyperHQ's settings.

Do I need an arcade cabinet? Not at all! HyperHQ works great on regular PCs. The cabinet features (LED lighting, marquee displays) are optional extras for folks who have them.

What's Next?​

Ready to add your first system and start playing? Head to Managing Systems to get started.

Need help? Check the Troubleshooting guide or visit the community forums.

Let's build your arcade!