Interactive Content Object for Video Game Documentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital solutions for video game support documentation, such as manuals and guides, are often static and separate from the gaming software, lacking interaction and integration with the game, and are not efficiently updated or patched.
Innovation Solution
A system for automated generation and execution of interactive content objects that can be integrated with video game applications, allowing for dynamic content delivery, remote updating, and interaction with the game environment, using electronic media files and a media player that can read game data and user input to provide adaptive content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If digital support documentation is created as separate static files (PDF or images), then print costs are reduced, but the documentation lacks interaction with the gaming software and requires manual navigation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support documentation with the gaming software by embedding the documentation within the game executable or distributing it as an integrated package. The documentation system shares the same runtime environment, file system access, and user interface framework as the game, eliminating the need for separate PDF files and manual navigation. Users can access documentation directly from the game interface without leaving the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The documentation transitions from static images to dynamic content that automatically updates based on game state. The system monitors game events, player progress, and contextual information to dynamically generate and display relevant documentation sections. This allows the documentation to adapt to user needs in real-time without requiring manual page turning or search navigation.
2Ease of operation
If documentation is made interactive and integrated with the game, then user experience is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal documentation framework that serves multiple functions: it acts as both game executable and documentation system, shares common resources (graphics, audio, input handling), and provides both gameplay and informational functions. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating redundant components that would exist in separate game and documentation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a documentation manager component that mediates between the game engine and the documentation content. This intermediary handles document generation, rendering, and navigation, freeing the main game engine from documentation-specific code. The mediator pattern allows the documentation system to interact with the game through well-defined interfaces without creating tight coupling or excessive complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If documentation is static and separate, then development and distribution is simpler, but updates and patches cannot be applied remotely
Solution Approach 1:
The documentation is designed as dynamic, updateable content rather than static files. The system includes version control and update mechanisms that allow the documentation to be patched and updated remotely, similar to how game code is updated. This enables the documentation to adapt to game changes, fix errors, and add new information without requiring complete redistribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The documentation system is segmented into modular components that can be independently updated and distributed. Rather than distributing a complete documentation package, the system can update individual documentation sections or chapters as needed. This segmentation allows for efficient remote updating and reduces distribution bandwidth requirements while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a system for automated generation and/or execution of an interactive content object having content related to a video game application. In some implementations, the interactive content object may comprise interactive digital content that may be distributed to and/or executed on one or more computer system gaming platforms and/or other interactive media devices. Interactive content objects may be configured such that they may be included in the video game application and/or executed by the video game application. Interactive content objects may also be configured as standalone products. Interactive content objects may be configured such that they may be remotely patched and/or updated without updating the video game application. In some implementations, the interactive content object may comprise one or more of an instruction manual, a strategy guidebook, a cheat book, a mini-game, episodic content, and/or other applications.