Barcode games are games that use barcodes, usually to enter characters and items for use in the game.
Numerous stand-alone card set games were released specifically for the following consoles.
Interface technology allowed the linking (usually via cables) of barcode-scanner hardware to other consoles.
Games released for non-scanning consoles would employ the barcode scanner as a means to unlock secret content within the game or to add enhanced functionality.
A number of games also relied on the barcode-scanning portion of the game in a manner which was integral to gameplay.