Quzu Scanner handheld toy scanning a real-world QR code outdoors

Discover the magical world behind every QR code

Use the Quzu Scanner to peer into the weird and wonderful world of QuzucritteRs. It's your portal to discovering the cute, shy, and sometimes weird creatures that are born inside QR codes.

  • Quzu Critters feature: explore the real world

    Explore the Real World

    Look around you: Stickers. Posters. Receipts. Any QR codes will work!

  • Quzu Critters feature: scan any QR code

    Scan any QR Code

    Slide the camera cover, point and click to scan.

  • Quzu Critters feature: watch characters revealed from QR codes

    Watch the Surprise Unfold

    Unique creatures hide inside the QR codes. Find them all.

  • Quzu Critters feature: tame and interact with your creature

    Tame Your Creature

    Play and train your creature to level them up. Leveling up makes it easier to capture more critters! 

  • Quzu Critters feature: unlock hidden surprises and mysteries

    Unlock Mysteries

    Reveal the secrets behind the world of QuzucritteRs including hidden minigames and animations.

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Illustration of four Quzu Critters: multi-armed babydoll, PB&J squid sandwich, lava lamp creature, merkittycorn.

The truth about QR Codes

When files are deleted and passwords forgotten, their lost data doesn’t disappear. The data drifts through the digital depths, where fragments of code merge and evolve into QuzucritteRs, a curious new form of digital life. Their home is inside QR codes, tiny portals linking their world 

 
Quzu Critters handheld scanner with batteries being replaced by hand

Designed to Play Anywhere

QuzucritteRs runs on standard batteries and is a totally offline device. No phone needed. There is no app, Wi-Fi, or internet connection required and there are no subscription fees.

 
Cheese Is Grate, rare Quzu Critters character revealed from QR code scan

42 unique creatures to collect!

Every QR Code is a magical surprise. Featuring rare and legendary critters. What will be hiding in the next QR code you discover?

 
Quzu Critters scanner blueprint showing built-in minigames

Minigames!

Quzu’s love to play minigames! Find and discover minigames, that let you upgrade your scanner to find even rarer creatures!

 
Honey bee Quzu Critters character peeking from behind real-world QR code sign

Rediscover Real-World Magic

Not every adventure needs planning. QuzucritteRs turns everyday stops into small discoveries, giving curious minds something to explore wherever you happen to be.

FAQ

Is it safe? Is it blocked from the internet?

Yes  it’s completely safe. QuzucritteRs is 100% offline and doesn’t connect to Wi-Fi or mobile networks. No accounts, no apps, no data collection. All play happens on the device itself, so your child can play privately, safely, and securely.

Is it the quality worth it?

QuzucritteRs is a premium, long-lasting handheld inspired by the devices many of us grew up with. It’s drop-tested, kid-proof, and designed for right-to-repair, with a bright display, tactile controls, and a AAA batteries instead of an integrated rechargeable. There are no subscriptions, no apps, and no upsells. Just a standalone toy that blends physical exploration with a playful digital world, and is built to be part of a childhood, not a product cycle.

Why AAA batteries instead of rechargeable?

Because they fit real life better. If the scanner runs out of power, you can swap batteries instantly and keep going, no waiting, no cables. Rechargeable internal batteries are often the first thing to fail over time and AAA batteries let QuzucritteRs stay simple, durable, and playable for years.

Will it end up in the junk drawer?

QuzucritteRs isn’t a sit-on-the-shelf toy. It’s a companion for everyday adventures; the kind that slips into a pocket for walks, trips, and unexpected discoveries, and comes back out again and again.

Do I need a subscription or add-ons?

No. Everything your child needs is included. And any future updates will be free. 

Does it come with tutorials kids can understand?

Yes. QuzucritteRs is designed so kids can jump in quickly. It includes a simple quick-start guide, kid-friendly in-game tutorials, and clear visual prompts designed for ages 6+. Most kids can start playing in under a minute.

Will my kid need my phone or tablet to play?

No. QuzucritteRs is a fully standalone device. There are no apps to install and no phone or tablet setup required.

Does it have annoying sounds or flashing lights?

No. We are parents too, and we believe toys should support focus, not fight for it. Sounds and activity only happen when your child interacts with the device. QuzucritteRs uses gentle sound effects with volume control, a bright but calm display, and no strobe effects or harsh flashing lights. It is designed to be engaging without being overwhelming.

Is the camera safe? Does it store photos?

Totally safe. The camera is used only to read QR-style codes. It does not share photos. Images are processed instantly and discarded.

Does it track or store the codes scanned? Is the data sold or used for marketing?

The scanner remembers the codes that are scanned so the player can’t scan the same QR code twice. However the data is never sold or used for marketing because YUCK, and also the device isn’t capable of that anyway. 

How does this work without the internet?

QR codes can store many kinds of data, not just website links. QuzucritteRs reads that data and turns it into possibilities inside the game. This keeps each discovery surprising, without needing an internet connection.

Drew Shark, creator of Quzu Critters and founder of Shark Industries

About The Creator: Drew Shark

I’ve wanted to design toys since I was a kid; long before my career took me through art, software, hardware, and eventually founding a 3D scanning company. As a parent, I struggled with balancing screen time and real-world play, until my son discovered QR codes and turned everyday walks into scavenger hunts. Watching that curiosity unfold made everything click. QuzucritteRs grew out of that moment: a retro-inspired handheld scanner that encourages exploration while unlocking a playful digital world, built to be kid-safe, internet-free, and rooted in imagination.