CONTEXTUAL PLAY PATTERN SWITCHING SYSTEM AND METHOD

摘要

A peripheral device for use in video gameplay includes circuitry for reading information stored in memory of toys placed on the peripheral device, and for providing that information to a computer device upon which gameplay is provided. The peripheral device includes a feature for holding a portable computer device, for example a computer tablet, in a hands free manner during gameplay. The feature may be a notch in the peripheral device, and the notch may be in a protuberance extending from a housing forming the peripheral device. In addition, the housing may provide storage for storing a game controller for use with the video game.

主权项

1. A method for executing a video game on a portable computing device, said portable computing device providing touchscreen-based inputs to the player, the method comprising:
determining, by the computing device, whether an external input controller is connected to the computing device; determining, by the computing device, whether a peripheral device is connected to the computing device, the peripheral device configured to read information relating to virtual game characters contained in physical toys proximate the peripheral device, the peripheral device including a storage compartment for the external input controller; enabling, by the computing device, a first usage mode of the video game in response to determining that the external input controller and the peripheral device are connected to the computing device, the first usage mode providing for control of a first virtual character using the external input controller and disablement of the touchscreen-based inputs, the first virtual character relating to a first toy proximate the peripheral device; and enabling, by the computing device, a second usage mode of the video game in response to determining that the external input controller is connected to the computing device and the peripheral device is not connected to the computing device, the second usage mode providing for control of a second virtual character, different than the first virtual character, using the external input controller, and disablement of the touchscreen-based inputs.