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Generic Auto-Exit Function for All Emulators

📋Summary

Introduce a universal “auto-exit” feature that allows users to close any running emulator instance using a controller shortcut—without needing to write or configure a dedicated AutoHotKey script for each emulator.


❗Problem

Currently, exiting an emulator with a controller requires either manually closing the window or setting up custom AutoHotKey scripts for each individual emulator. This setup process is time-consuming, especially for users with large emulator libraries or less technical experience.

Additionally, not all emulators support native controller-based exit functions, making the process inconsistent and sometimes frustrating when switching between systems.


💡Proposal

  • Add a new global controller shortcut (e.g., Start + Select) that functions as a universal “exit emulator” command

  • Implement this at the LaunchBox/BigBox level so it can detect and terminate the active emulator process, regardless of which emulator is running

  • Optional setting to confirm exit or display a small overlay notification when triggered

  • Option to enable/disable per platform or globally


✅Benefits

  • Significantly reduces setup time—no need for per-emulator scripts

  • Provides a consistent, user-friendly way to exit games with a controller

  • Greatly improves usability for couch/HTPC setups and less tech-savvy users

  • Encourages broader controller use without keyboard fallback 🔄🕹️📴

Status: Open To Community1 comment

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Comments1

  • AstroBob changed status to Open To Community
    Team•

    May 5, 2025

    Pinned

    Hi there!

    Thanks so much for submitting this request and for taking the time to explain your use case — that context is always super helpful.

    I’ve gone ahead and fleshed out the main idea using the info you provided, and I’m opening it up to the community for further discussion and feedback. Please let me know if this fleshed-out version doesn’t match your original intended request.

    Feel free to let me know if you have any extra thoughts, examples, or edge cases you think might be relevant!

    Cheers,
    The LaunchBox team