Location-Based Meta-Game Integration for Player Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current social games lack mechanisms to seamlessly integrate location-based meta-games, limiting player engagement and interaction with real-world locations, and fail to effectively utilize social networks to enhance game experiences.
Innovation Solution
A system that detects player presence at specific locations and offers options to participate in location-based meta-games, linking in-game actions to meta-game outcomes, and incorporates social networking to enhance player interactions and rewards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If location-based meta-games are integrated into social games, then player engagement and interaction with real-world locations is improved, but device complexity and system integration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements location-based meta-games as a nested layer within the existing social game framework. The meta-game system is integrated into the game engine without requiring separate standalone systems, allowing location-based interactions to be embedded within the existing game architecture. This nesting approach enables enhanced player engagement while managing system complexity through hierarchical integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a location service as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between the game system and real-world location data. This intermediary handles the complexity of location detection, geofencing, and location-based trigger events, allowing the core game mechanics to remain simple while enabling sophisticated location-based meta-game interactions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If social networking is incorporated to enhance player interactions, then social engagement is improved, but device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures social networking features and player profiles before gameplay occurs. Player avatars, social graphs, and interaction protocols are established in advance, allowing the system to process and respond to social interactions more efficiently during actual play. This preliminary setup reduces real-time data processing requirements while maintaining robust social engagement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal social interaction framework that handles multiple types of social engagements (friend requests, gifts, challenges, competitions) through a single integrated system. This multi-functional approach consolidates data processing requirements into one unified social networking module rather than requiring separate systems for each interaction type, thereby managing complexity while enhancing social engagement.
3Productivity
If location-based meta-games are implemented, then player motivation to visit real locations is improved, but loss of time for players increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements location-based meta-games with optional participation, allowing players to engage partially based on their availability and motivation. Players can choose to participate in location-based challenges when motivated, without being forced to complete all required actions. This partial action approach maintains player motivation through meaningful rewards while respecting players' time constraints and preventing excessive time investment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide immediate rewards and recognition for location-based achievements. When players complete location-based tasks or visit designated areas, the system provides timely feedback through in-game rewards, notifications, and social recognition. This feedback loop motivates players to engage with location-based content without requiring excessive time investment, as the rewards are achieved through brief, meaningful interactions rather than prolonged commitments.
Data Source
AI summary
In a method of notifying a user of an option to participate in a meta game, a presence of a player of a computer-implemented game at a location is detected. An association between a computer-implemented meta-game and the location is identified. The player of the computer-implemented game is presented with an option to participate in the computer-implemented meta-game. An indication of an acceptance of the option to participate in the computer-implemented meta game is received from the player of the computer-implemented game. A performance of an action within the computer-implemented game by the player of the computer-implemented game is reflected within the computer-implemented meta game.