Second-screen use in a game

Partner

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE)

Award

£25,000 (excluding VAT)

The Challenge

As the number of consumers using portable devices for games continues to rise into the hundreds of millions, there is a commercial opportunity for game developers to use clever second-screen game mechanics/companion apps to enhance the content that users are experiencing.

The concept has been around for years, but there are very limited examples of second-screen use in games that have convincingly improved traditional console gaming experiences.

This challenge therefore seeks the development of an innovative and original game application prototype that is split across two or more screens, which features a unique use of second-screen game mechanics.

Successful solutions should address the following:

• real-time connectivity, with the second screen used at the same time as the primary device
• single player or multiplayer gaming

In addition, successful solutions could also consider:

• integrating additional control mechanisms such as game controllers, mouse or keyboard
• multiple screens that communicate with a single primary device
• second screen used as the primary game controller.

Applicants are reminded that:

• the solution could either be a specific concept for a game with the use of second-screen or an original game mechanic with examples of how it will be used across existing or new games
• they do not need to build a game or game mechanics for the application stage
• there is the potential to trial their prototype with Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) for a minimum of 3 months
• they will retain their intellectual property
• there is a wider opportunity to gain exposure of your solution with other companies. 

Please note there is no restriction on the OS (operating systems) of any of the devices.

About Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE)

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE), based in London, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and sales of PlayStation®2 (PS2®) computer entertainment system, PSP(tm) (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system, PlayStation®3 (PS3®) computer entertainment system,  PlayStation®Vita (PS Vita) portable entertainment system,  and PlayStation®Network software and hardware in 109 territories across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Oceania.

SCEE has revolutionised home entertainment since they launched PlayStation® in 1994. PS2® further enhances the PlayStation® legacy as the core of home networked entertainment. PSP® is a handheld entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games with high-quality full-motion video and high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3® is an advanced computer system, incorporating the powerful Cell Broadband Engine and RSX processors. PS Vita is an ultimate portable entertainment system that offers a revolutionary combination of rich gaming and social connectivity within a real world context. SCEE also delivers the PlayStation® experience to open operating systems through PlayStation®Mobile, a cross device platform. PlayStation®4, available this holiday season, is the next generation computer entertainment system that redefines rich and immersive gameplay with powerful graphics and speed, intelligent personalization and deeply integrated social capabilities.

SCEE also develops, publishes, markets and distributes entertainment software for these formats, and manages the third party licensing programs for the formats in these territories. 

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