In a groundbreaking move last week, Sony Interactive Entertainment unveiled a patent that could redefine the way esports fans interact with matches. Titled "Triggering Virtual Help or Hindrance Based on Audience Participation Tiers," this innovative system empowers viewers to impact the game by achieving specific engagement goals.

New Sony Patent Design Will Help Fan Troll During Matches 

Esports enthusiasts can now actively influence matches from the comfort of their homes through a variety of "engagement activities." The patent introduces a dynamic system where fans, depending on their participation level, can trigger positive or negative effects during a game.

An intriguing example outlined in the patent involves a tiered approach to engagement. For instance, if 100 spectators press a designated button ten times, a cheer effect resonates, potentially affecting the opposing team's audio. Taking it a step further, if 1,000 spectators share the stream using a specific hashtag, players receive a performance boost. Conversely, should 10,000 fans scan a QR code linked to their "most hated team," that team loses a life.

While the patent remains intentionally vague and generic, not specifying any particular esport, it opens the door to a captivating future for esports viewership and fan engagement. The concept, though novel, raises concerns, particularly if implemented in high-stakes environments such as championship matches. Skepticism surrounds the potential susceptibility to bot interference, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring.

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Interestingly, this concept isn't entirely unprecedented, having echoes in traditional sports. The Fan Controlled Football League, which operated for two seasons in 2021 and 2022, allowed fans to call in "power-ups" like an extra down or a power play. If a similar system were to integrate into esports, it could undoubtedly introduce a fresh dynamic, revolutionizing the competitive landscape.