Disney has patented the ability for merchandise to augment gameplay, such as in a theme park. Of course, Disney parks fans will already know that Disney has rolled out an entire line of “WEB Tech” merchandise that allows for special effects and the like during the WEB SLINGERS attraction in Avengers Campus. First, let’s take a look at the patent.

The patent describes a gameplay system within a theme park that allows guests to augment their ride experience via themed merchandise. Disney describes the problem as a ride or experience that doesn’t necessarily provide an individual experience. The theme park operator set out to create a more interactive experience via themed merchandise. The patent describes the themed merchandise as an “augmenting object” and describes a gameplay system that recognizes and reacts to the augmenting object.

The augmenting object, which can be seen in the patent images below, will then allow the gameplay participant to choose specific abilities or powers that would allow for a more unique, individualized experience. While the patent image is quite specific and appears to be very similar to existing WEB Tech merchandise, the patent aims to allow for a broader definition of an augmenting object such as one that can be worn or held. A general object identification system would identify the augmenting object and then modify the experience for the participant wearing or holding the object.

Here’s a look at the WEB Tech, which is Disney’s current implementation of the patented system described above.

The patent was filed November 22, 2021 and published earlier this month.

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