[Feature Request] Display Games by Filename Option

[bk1412]

Is your feature request related to a problem? Please describe.


Currently, TwilightMenu++ displays Nintendo DS games using metadata extracted from the game files (e.g., game title). While this works well for some, it creates significant issues for users who rely on fan-translated ROMs or have custom game libraries. The reliance on metadata often leads to misidentified games, inconsistent naming, and an overall disorganized experience. This issue can be particularly problematic for those who source games from various regions or rely on community-based translations. This inconsistency directly impacts usability and can deter new users unfamiliar with the nuances of how the system operates. Furthermore, it creates a confusing and frustrating initial experience, making it difficult to navigate game libraries. This isn't just a minor aesthetic issue; it creates a significant barrier to entry for many users.

Describe the solution you'd like


I propose implementing an option within TwilightMenu++ to display Nintendo DS games using their file names instead of relying on extracted metadata. This would provide a consistent and reliable method of game identification that is not dependent on metadata accuracy. The user would be able to choose a setting that displays the ROMs exactly as their file is named, making the game list clear and easy to browse. Ideally, this option would be togglable in the settings menu, offering flexibility for users who prefer either file name or metadata-based display. This feature should be implemented to function at the root level where games are first displayed.

Describe alternatives you've considered


The current alternative is to either deal with the inconsistent and often incorrect metadata display, or to manually rename every ROM file with the desired names, which is extremely tedious and time-consuming. I've also considered using other NDS menu systems like those found on R4 flashcarts, which have implemented filename-based displays for years, this would however be a loss to the community and my desire is to see TWM improve and grow. Furthermore, user-maintained databases have their own inconsistencies and can be outdated quickly. For now, the most consistent approach to getting the names right, ironically, is to use a flashcart which is something I would prefer not to do.

Additional context


I understand that the current metadata-based system is the default because it might offer a better user experience for some, but I argue that this does not represent all users especially those outside of native english communities. From what I have gathered, this issue has been raised multiple times on Reddit and other forums, often with users receiving responses indicating the feature has been deprioritized due to low demand, seemingly due to most english speakers not needing the feature. However, the availability of R4 flashcarts with this option already implemented clearly demonstrates that this is a sought-after feature. Many users, especially those who use translated ROMs, are being turned off from even trying TwilightMenu++ because of the poor user experience out of the gate. It is a seemingly simple fix and it is an obstacle that stops new users from even getting started with the system, as they have to spend time trying to make sense of the game list.

Furthermore, this is not a particularly complex technical challenge, and the lack of this option is a significant barrier to user adoption from non-english communities. If you want TwilightMenu++ to grow and attract more users from around the globe, I feel addressing this fundamental user experience flaw is absolutely crucial. I believe by offering a simple option for users to browse games by their file names, it would significantly enhance the user experience, attract more users, and foster a more active and diverse TwilightMenu++ community. Many users who do not need this feature will simply not even consider the use case and are likely not aware of this problem. A new community member should not have a poor user experience on their first try of TWM, as this creates a very bad first impression. Also, I believe more often users will simply purchase a flashcart that offers this simple feature, rather than submit a feature request. Thank you for considering this proposal.