I had an interesting diversion from work this afternoon, testing a new location-based game the Locatrix team is developing. As the User Experience is Augmented reality-based, I also got to play with Layar as well.
Firstly, we made an odd sight: four guys walking down Albert Street, holding their phones camera-like as we sought to claim game tokens from thin air.
Secondly, it worked fine. Sure, some refinements are necessary – we’re specifically working on the optimal placement and radius values for both visibility and token acquisition, but the general concept worked well.
Thirdly, snatching at objects which aren’t really there is a surreal experience; I was trying out a new Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Android device (courtesy of our Telstra friends), and the 8 megapixel viewing experience made for a very “real” augmentation experience.
A bit of fun, and several steps forward on the LBS games agenda.
