QR codes explained.

Encrypted City uses a type of 2d barcode (also called a matrix code) called QR codes. QR technology was initially developed by Toyota subsidary Denso Wave and released in 1994 for tracking parts in auto manufacturing. It was designed for high-speed scanning and recognition, hence the initials "QR": Quick Response. Unlike regular barcodes you see everyday, matrix codes like QR scan for data both vertically and horizontally. This enables them to hold more information in less space.

The QR code format (or "symbology" in barcode jargon) can encode several different types of data, including plain text, URLs, email, phonje numbers, and SMS. This makes it ideal for use in an interactive game. QR codes are very popular in Japan, where they appear in many youth and style magazines.

A sample code, giving the URL to a really excellent webcomic:








Outside of industrial applications, QR codes are generally scanned using mobile phones. To be able to scan a QR code, the phone must have a camera of sufficient resolution and the ability to run reader software. There are many supported models these days, but this support is far from complete. Additionally, in our own testing we've found that the device we used was able to read some codes, but not others. This mainly happened with small codes found in Japanese magazines that may have required a higher-resolution camera.