Computer Game Control Switchover via Input-State Reconciliation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of smoothly transitioning control in computer games from one player to another, especially when there are many degrees of freedom in the game inputs, is not adequately addressed by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A system that communicates the current state of game input to a new player, allowing time to catch up, detects their control, and reconciles any errors, using visual, auditory, and haptic feedback, and adjusts the outgoing player to the transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If control is passed from one player to another in a computer game with many degrees of freedom, then control transition capability is improved, but control accuracy and game state consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting when a player is away from the keyboard or device, proactively taking control and executing game actions during the absence. This prepares the game state for smooth transition when the player returns, eliminating the need for abrupt control handoff and maintaining precision during the transition process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors player presence through keyboard activity detection and provides feedback by automatically taking control when the player is away. This feedback mechanism ensures that control transitions occur at optimal moments, maintaining both the ability to transition control and the accuracy of control execution throughout the game.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control transitions are implemented in games with many input degrees of freedom, then control flexibility is improved, but transition smoothness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically detecting player absence and taking control without requiring explicit player action or complex handoff protocols. This self-activating mechanism simplifies the transition process, maintaining flexibility in control assignment while ensuring smooth transitions through automated, seamless takeovers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual control handoff procedures are used, then control transition capability is improved, but player productivity and game flow deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates manual handoff procedures by implementing self-service automation that detects player absence and manages control transitions automatically. This removes the need for players to manually pause, save, or coordinate control transfers, thereby maintaining full control transition capability while preserving continuous game flow and player productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are described for smooth switchover of computer game control. The current states of game input is communicated to a new player assuming control. The new player is allowed time to catch up to the game. New player control is detected, and any errors are communicated to the new player. If there are differences between the old control scheme and that of the new player, they are reconciled. The outgoing player is adjusted to the transition.