Sony’s patent allows NFT transfers between devices and ecosystems – Cryptopolitan
Sony Interactive Entertainment, the entertainment and gaming console giant, has filed a patent that will make non-fungible tokens (NFT) transferable between different games and consoles. The move aims to make assets more interoperable, not only between different games, but also hardware such as VR headsets, computers and different consoles.
This will allow players of Sony products such as the flagship PlayStation to have an interoperable Web3 gaming experience. Players will be allowed to transfer in-game assets between devices such as VR headsets, tablets, computers and smartphones. The patent application also noted that “In some examples, NFT can be used across generations (eg, from PS4 to PS5).”
Interoperability between different gaming ecosystems
The patent application also goes into detail about how NFTs will work for achievements and tournaments, noting that “In some examples, the task may include a win in an eSports tournament, and the digital asset may be usable via NFT at the first end-user device on across several different computer simulations.” Sony also specified in the patent that the framework aims to be interoperable between products outside the Sony ecosystem, such as the Xbox or a “cloud-based video game”, making assets fully transferable and usable between different gaming ecosystems.
This move towards interoperability is a significant step for the gaming industry, as it has historically been closed and siloed, with players often unable to transfer assets between different games and platforms. However, with the growing popularity of blockchain-based games and NFTs, the industry has been exploring ways to create a more open and interconnected gaming ecosystem. Sony’s patent filing is a step in this direction, and if successful, could lead to a more seamless and integrated gaming experience for players.
Prevent duplication of NFTs
The patent application also outlines a feature to prevent players from repeating tasks to earn the same NFTs with different products or games, noting the ability to prevent “execution of the task again in other instances of the computer simulation being executed, and/or declining” to offer additional NFTs for subsequent additional completion of the task.” This feature aims to prevent duplication of NFTs, which can devalue their rarity and uniqueness. By preventing players from earning the same NFT multiple times, value and scarcity are maintained to the NFTs, ensuring that they remain attractive and valuable assets.
Increasing presence in the Web3 area
Sony has recently made moves to increase its presence in the Web3 space, forging partnerships and testing early blockchain-based products. In November, the company released motion-tracking wearables, allowing players to control their avatars with their bodies in real time. In February, their network provider division, Sony Network Communications, teamed up with blockchain network Astar to create an incubation program for companies focused on building NFTs and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) with practical utility.
Sony’s move towards Web3 and blockchain-based gaming is a sign of the growing interest in the technology from traditional gaming companies. As the industry continues to explore new ways to create more immersive and interactive gaming experiences, blockchain and NFTs are emerging as key technologies that can transform the industry. By embracing these technologies, companies like Sony are positioning themselves as leaders in next-generation gaming.
Conclusion
Sony’s patent application for NFT portability is a significant step towards creating a more open and interconnected gaming ecosystem. By allowing players to transfer in-game assets between different devices, games and platforms, the gaming experience becomes more seamless and integrated. The patent application’s anti-duplication feature of NFTs ensures that their rarity and uniqueness are maintained, making them valuable assets.
