A recent patent filing provides evidence of Hasbro’s plans to utilize their popular NERF guns as controllers for virtual reality (VR) gaming systems. These iconic toy blasters have been a staple since the early 1990s, with Hasbro introducing various lines and iterations over the years. Still a favorite among young boys, NERF guns have also gained a following among enthusiasts who modify them to enhance performance or upgrade the darts used. In the realm of video games, there have been tie-in titles centered around these toys, such as the first-person shooter NERF Legends, released in 2021 for platforms including Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, and Xbox.
Despite the ongoing popularity of the toys, Hasbro has been collaborating with other games to promote their NERF guns. Examples include launching a line of NERF guns themed around Minecraft and providing Halo Infinite players with an in-game skin upon purchasing these blasters. It seems the next frontier for these toys is their integration as controllers in virtual reality and augmented reality gaming experiences.
The recently filed patent at the United States Patent Office outlines a video game attachment system that will be compatible with traditional, augmented reality (AR), and/or virtual reality (VR) gaming. The attachment will secure a screen to a physical controller designed in the shape of a toy gun. Additional attachments are included, enabling a registration device to detect the movement and triggers of the toy guns.
While the patent mentions toy guns in general, it specifically highlights compatibility with NERF guns and blasters sold in stores. The background of the patent describes a controller system that will allow these toy guns to function with various gaming systems without the need for specialized controllers. The proposed solution involves attaching sensors to the toys, enabling tracking of the object’s position for virtual reality or mobile games.
The patent suggests that this technology can be applied to a range of game genres, extending beyond first-person shooters. It mentions the potential for steering wheel control motions in racing/driving games, sports games utilizing the controller as a mallet or bat, and adventure games replicating sword movements. While this information remains speculative until the NERF-related patent is officially unveiled, it highlights the exciting possibilities for expanding the use of these toys beyond their traditional play.
Should this patent come to fruition, it could revolutionize the gaming experience by offering a unique and immersive way to interact with virtual environments. As technology continues to advance, combining the nostalgia and popularity of NERF guns with the immersive world of virtual reality gaming may prove to be a winning combination for both Hasbro and gaming enthusiasts alike.
