This month's User Interface & Experience category includes 4 granted patents from King.Com, NetEase, Nintendo, and Tencent, with 1 patent from each company.
The technologies address diverse gameplay challenges, from pre-match customization to physical controller management. King.Com's patent covers pre-level mode selection interfaces that allow rule modification before gameplay begins, while Tencent describes a pre-match loadout configuration system for Battle Royale titles. Nintendo's patent details an automated mini-game sequencing method that prevents controller strap tangling in motion-controlled games, and NetEase presents a clue-trail mechanic where player actions leave discoverable traces for rival detection in stealth scenarios.
King.Com received 1 patent covering pre-level mode selection screens that enable players to modify gameplay rules before starting a level. The system applies different rule sets to the same level layout, creating gameplay variety without the need to design additional content. This approach separates the underlying mechanics from the level structure itself, allowing a single level to support multiple play styles through selectable rule modifications presented before the action begins.
Nintendo received 1 patent covering an automated mini-game sequencing system designed for motion-controlled party game collections. The technology monitors which game types have appeared during a play session and adjusts future selections to prevent cumulative physical issues, specifically controller strap twisting. A frequency-adaptation algorithm tracks game history in real time and suppresses game types that cause strap rotation until a compensating game appears to untwist the straps, embedding hardware maintenance considerations directly into the game selection logic.
Tencent received 1 patent covering a pre-game loadout system for Battle Royale matches that allows players to configure custom loot boxes before entering a game. The approach stores these configurations in advance and only activates them when a player interacts with the relevant item, avoiding the need to synchronize all virtual item states continuously across servers and clients during gameplay. This design reduces network and computational overhead while still providing players with personalized gear options.
NetEase received 1 patent covering a clue-trail system for stealth gameplay where player actions leave persistent evidence on NPCs and objects that rival players can later discover. The technology creates object-bound traces of interactions that opposing players can investigate through a structured UI, forming an evidence chain that reveals the original player's identity and movements. This extends beyond simple proximity detection by implementing an investigative mechanic where actions leave discoverable footprints throughout the game environment.
All data sourced from USPTO patent filings. Google Patents may take several weeks to index recent publications. If a link is unavailable, search for the patent number at USPTO Patent Public Search.