Pocket Codex vs Shackmaps

Pocket Codex is a free iOS app for organizing and reading retro game guides. It imports HTML, plain text, and PDF files, then saves them directly to the device for offline reading. The app remembers where you left off in each guide, and a game can hold several related files, such as a walkthrough, manual, or HTML map. Built-in iCloud Drive Sync can synchronize the library across devices using the same iCloud account. Stored games and guides are kept in a device folder named PocketCodex, which can be backed up. The app does not require an account and says it does not collect, store, or share personally identifiable information. Its privacy policy says guides and preferences remain local and are not used for analytics, advertising, or tracking; Apple services may collect limited technical data. The App Store listing requires iOS 26.0 or later on iPhone and iPadOS 26.0 or later on iPad. The maker says Pocket Codex started with iOS and recommends a separate Android app, Pixel Guide, for a similar experience. Video is not a core focus, though HTML files can technically embed a video player.

Shackmaps is a free interactive map site for video games. Visitors can search for a game or choose a map linked from the homepage, then browse locations and track completion progress. Its Red Dead Redemption 2 map includes locations such as Legendary Animals, Legendary Fish, Dinosaur Bones, Rock Carvings, and Cigarette Cards. Shacknews says the site was created to give players and developers another option for interactive game maps. Maps are made with game experts and maintained through continued updates; Shacknews says it works with developers where possible. Browsing does not require an account. A free Google or Apple sign-in is needed to track progress, place custom pins, or suggest pins. The site says it has no subscription or paywall. Its privacy policy says account setup stores email addresses and checked pins, which are encrypted at rest, and that user data is not sold. The terms restrict use to personal, non-commercial purposes and say the site is not intended for children under 16 without parental consent.