Microsoft's Online Spectator Patent

Next Generation reports on Microsoft's 5000th patent: an online spectator mode for competitive games. From the article: "The system will allow online viewers who are not involved in actual gameplay to view game highlights and instant replays, as well as let them control camera perspectives. A statement from Microsoft also describes 'A portal such as a Web site to access spectator-related services such as schedules and information on multiple games and events as well as the number of spectators and participants in each. The portal allows the spectator to find the most popular games to watch, preview the action, and then connect to the desired game or event.'"

Microsoft's 5000th patent?

[vertinox]

Golly... If my calculations are correct, Microsoft will have patented every idea possible by the year 2030.

On the bright side, all possible ideas will be public domain by 2047.

Right motivation, wrong goal...

[Spy der Mann]

from TFA "Microsoft's goal is to file 3,000 patents per year."

I'd rather have them fix 3,000 bugs per year.

An even better idea!

[malsdavis]

Wouldn't it be even cooler if people could spectate on games like Counter-strike and the Quake series. How about allowing different spectating camera angles e.g.: follow player and free flying. They could even place a small top-down map in the corner to show the players position relative to enemies and teammates!

Hope no-one has thought of this already else prior art might invalidate any patents.

Re:Done before?

[Perseid]

Man, at first I thought that said "I wonder if my 4 year old is now patented."

I wouldn't be surprised...

The Rocky Prior Art Horror Show

[rewinn]

"... In another dimension
With voyeuristic intention
Well secluded, I see all ..."

It's astounding .... MS got prior art'd by the Time Warp [rockymusic.org] ... Again!

Re:Right motivation, wrong goal...

[Alsee]

As a compromise they will patent 3,000 bugs per year.

-