According to the collective consciousness that is Wikipedia, Léon Theremininvented an espionage tool for the Soviet government in 1946 which retransmitted incident radio waves with audio information. Soundwaves vibrated a diaphragm which slightly altered the shape of the resonator, which modulated the reflected radio frequency. Even though this device was a passive covert listening device, not an identification tag, it has been attributed as the first known device and a predecessor to the technology now known as RFID.

From such humble beginnings RFID has springboarded to fame and fortune as an advanced automatic identification technology that’s set to replace the barcodeas an inventory tracking and management device.

Finally, though, RFID is about to acquire street cred as games maker Mattellaunches a new gaming platform called ‘HyperScan’ that combines the principles of collector card games with video games and RFID technology.

The gaming product (priced at US$69.99) allows players to scan collectible game cards, enhance and modify their game skills, and make their video game characters more powerful over time. In addition, character statistics are saved permanently to the card for future play.

Designed for consumers aged 8-19, HyperScan combines a re-writable Intellicard with the fast-paced action of video games. Three HyperScan software titles are available initially, including Marvel X-Men (which comes packaged with the system), Cartoon Network’s Ben 10 (based on the hit TV show) and Mattel’s own Interstellar Wrestling League. Marvel Heroes will be released in December 2006. Previews of game play have been posted online at the gaming system’s official web site.

How it works
Players scan their cards over the HyperScan console and their favourite characters come to life on the screen. Players can then scan additional cards that upgrade, enhance and modify their offensive and defensive abilities (such as strength, armour and special attacks).

After playing, players can then re-scan their cards and their new powers are permanently stored on their Intellicard, ready for use in future game play.

This is just the latest in a long line of initiatives by traditional toy manufacturers to move to techno-enabled offerings, as today’s young consumers vote with their pester power for things that click, interact and evolve.

Sorry, tin soldiers, cyber-equip yourselves or head back into that box for an ignominious exit via eBay.

Tags: cards, Mattel, RFID, toys