File this under: "Just because someone files a patent application, does not mean he or she will get a patent."
On August 6, the Patent Office published a patent application that I think those in the trading card industry might want to watch. A company called Hothead Games, Inc. filed the application and it is entitled, "Virtual Opening of Boxes and Packs."
Patentese translation: This title is so simple, it’s confusing. At first glance, it doesn’t seem to need a translation. But wait, what exactly does "Virtual Opening of Boxes and Packs" mean? Does it cover someone opening a virtual pack of cards on their computer screen? That doesn't seem overly inventive. Or, is this some kind of virtual reality where a “virtual you” can somehow open actual packs from miles away?
You know, for some of the crappy products I've opened before, it would have been best to open them from miles away, but, with that title, I doubt that's what the patent covers.
The pictures in the patent application don't help either, because, well, I'm not sure what's going on in them. Really, it looks like there are some cartoonish James Dean wannabe figures throwing a fit and cursing.
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