Level Up on National Video Games Day: How Patents Are Powering the Future of Gaming

The video game industry is a global powerhouse, evolving rapidly due to cutting-edge technological advancements. Behind these innovations lies an essential driver – patents. Global gaming giants, particularly Sony Interactive, have emerged as major players in patent filings, fueling innovation across multiple facets of gaming. In fact, Sony filed over five times the number of patents as its closest competitors last year, with 117 patent applications. Companies like Activision and Electronic Arts (EA) trail with 22 and 21 applications, respectively.

Using Anaqua’s AcclaimIP patent search and analytics software, the key areas driving the video game industry forward are mobile and hand-held devices, streaming and latency technologies, and cybersecurity measures. This patent activity is a clear reflection of the direction in which the gaming industry is moving – towards portable, seamless, and safer gaming experiences.

The Evolving Landscape of Mobile and Hand-Held Gaming

Mobile and hand-held gaming has recently emerged as the most popular segment of the industry. Last year alone, the global mobile gaming market generated a staggering $184 billion in revenue, underscoring its tremendous growth over the past decade. Below, you'll find a detailed look at mobile and hand-held gaming-related patent filings from 2001 to 2024. While the chart includes data for 2021 and beyond, it's important to note a temporary decline in patent representation, as filings have yet to be made public. However, the numbers up to 2021 highlight the innovative momentum driving this sector.

This rise in popularity is fueled by several factors. First, mobile gaming offers a high level of diversity. Players can switch between competitive first-person shooters, relaxing puzzle games, and virtual poker tournaments – all from the same device. The accessibility of smartphones has also played a pivotal role, with affordable devices like Samsung's gaming-friendly smartphones bringing high-quality gaming to the masses.

Furthermore, the expansion of 5G networks has created new possibilities in mobile gaming, enabling seamless connectivity and reducing latency issues. Anaqua’s annual patent report found the U.S. granted 55,263 5G-related patents in 2023, up 3% year over year. This improved infrastructure has paved the way for global competitive gaming on mobile devices, with eSports leagues like the Clash Royale League and Call of Duty Mobile Championship gaining traction.

Recent patents showcase the continued evolution of mobile gaming hardware. Hand-held consoles like the Steam Deck and controllers such as the Backbone are further blurring the lines between traditional console gaming and mobile experiences. Sony's PlayStation Portal is another example, offering players the ability to continue gaming on the go without sacrificing the quality of the console experience.

The Technological Backbone of Gaming: Streaming and Latency Patents

As gaming has moved towards mobile and cross-platform play, streaming technologies and latency reduction have become increasingly important. This is crucial for the growing trend of cloud gaming, where performance hinges on low-latency connections. Patents in this space are aimed at improving the performance of games across various platforms, including VR headsets, smart TVs, and consoles. These innovations are essential for reducing lag and ensuring smooth gameplay, particularly for streamed and multiplayer games.

For example, Sony’s patented system (JP2024111022 A) adjusts video encoding in real-time based on a player's internet bandwidth, optimizing cloud gaming performance. Likewise, AT&T’s method (US20240216800 A1) streamlines game transitions by downloading essential content while removing unnecessary data, helping to reduce interrupted gameplay. These innovations in streaming are crucial to delivering high-quality gaming experiences without relying on powerful local hardware.

Steam Deck Patent

 

Backbone Patent

 

As more companies file patents in these areas, competition will become even more intense, with giants like Sony, Tencent, Amazon, and Microsoft leading the charge in latency and streaming technology. The future of gaming, particularly cloud-based and VR gaming, is being shaped by these innovations.

The Intersection of Video Games and Cybersecurity: Patents Aimed at Preventing Cyberbullying

Gaming can be an immersive and positive experience, but it is also prone to negative elements, such as cyberbullying. With 70% of youths under the age of 18 playing video games, and 65% of all players engaging in multiplayer games, the risk of online harassment is prevalent.

The most common form of online harassment involves offensive name-calling, which surged during the COVID-19 pandemic as video gaming, particularly multiplayer games, saw a sharp increase in activity. To address this issue, companies like Sony Interactive are filing patents aimed at combating cyberbullying within gaming communities. For example, Sony’s patent (US20240017177 A1) introduces a system that flags disruptive behavior during gameplay and notifies moderators with video clips for review.

 

Major developers like Riot Games and Ubisoft are also working on AI-driven tools to detect harmful behaviors in real-time, with projects like Zero Harm in Comms using AI to analyze in-game communications for signs of harassment.

Patents Paving the Way for the Future of Gaming

National Video Games Day is more than just a celebration of gaming – it’s a reflection of the technological advancements that continue to shape the industry. From innovations in mobile and hand-held gaming devices to breakthroughs in streaming technologies and cybersecurity, patents are at the forefront of progress. These inventions are making games more accessible, immersive, and safe, ensuring that gaming remains a positive experience for players of all ages.

As we celebrate the evolution of video games on this day, it's worth acknowledging the behind-the-scenes work that makes modern gaming possible. The future of gaming is brighter than ever, thanks to the innovators and their patents that are shaping the next generation of the industry.