Innovation That Matters

Device turns playgrounds into a controller for video games

Work & Lifestyle

From Spain, HYBRIDPLAY has developed a smart clip that connects any playground to smartphone games, requiring kids to be physically active to complete each level.

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One of the main complaints parents have about today’s kids is that, rather than going outside to play with their friends, they’d rather sit and play computer games. As well as annoying the older generation, it’s also not all that healthy. Unfortunately, kids’ love for video games is something that’s here to stay. In the past, we’ve seen Loop use smart sensors and audio feedback to make outdoors play more like an Xbox game. Now Spain-based HYBRIDPLAY has developed a smart clip that connects any playground to smartphone games, requiring kids to be physically active to complete each level.

The system consists of two parts — the smart clip and the HYBRIDPLAY app. Designed to work out of the box, the clip can simply be placed on any piece of playground equipment, such as a see-saw, slide or swing. The device has a built-in accelerometer and an infra-red sensor that can detect the activities being performed. The app features a catalog of different games, ranging from classic titles like Pong and Pacman to the company’s own Space Kids adventure game and various puzzles. For each one, kids’ activity in the playground determines what happens in the game. For example, one requires players to swing in sync with the game in order to help the character collect pieces of a puzzle. Another gets kids to work together on a spring rocker to direct a rocket through space and avoid asteroids.

Watch the video below to learn more about HYBRIDPLAY:

HYBRIDPLAY matches the physical exertion of outdoors play with the mental challenges of video games to ensure kids are exercising both at the same time. The developers are currently seeking funding through Indiegogo, where backers can get the full Hybrid Play kit for USD 99. The campaign runs until 28 November. Are there other ways to leverage the popularity of video games to get kids outdoors?

Indiegogo: www.igg.me/at/hybridplay

Website : www.hybridplay.com

Website: www.hybridplay.com

Contact: www.hybridplay.com/contact-hybrid-play-en

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