Question 1

How do I set up TheGamesDB locally for development?

Accepted Answer

Install Apache, MySQL, and PHP 5 using tools like XAMPP, then configure the database and use the TGDB Development Pack for sample data, as outlined in the README. Vagrant is also supported for easier VM setup.

Question 2

Is TheGamesDB API free to use for commercial projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as an open-source project, the API is free, but it's community-driven with no uptime guarantees, so it's best suited for non-critical or hobbyist applications rather than enterprise use.

Question 3

TheGamesDB vs IGDB: which one is better?

Accepted Answer

TheGamesDB is better for self-hosting and open data contributions, while IGDB offers more curated content with commercial options but may have API limits. Choose based on your need for control versus reliability.

Question 4

How can I contribute game data to TheGamesDB?

Accepted Answer

You can sign up on the frontend site to submit contributions, or if self-hosting, modify the database directly. The community-driven model encourages user updates, though quality may vary.

Question 5

What programming languages can I use with TheGamesDB API?

Accepted Answer

Any language that can make HTTP requests, as the API is RESTful. However, the backend is PHP-based, so self-hosting requires maintaining that stack, which might limit integration with modern frameworks.

Question 6

Does TheGamesDB support mobile app development?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use the API in mobile apps, but the lack of official SDKs and potential data inconsistencies mean you'll need to handle errors and caching manually for a smooth experience.

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