A new Square Enix patent could be pointing at the developer working on a new form of gun heavy combat for players to interact with in a future title. It isn't exactly clear what game this innovation on the mechanic would be used for, though Square Enix has worked on a number of different shooters in the past, if not as developer then as a producer like for the upcoming title Outriders.

The innovation itself is a style of shooting that is closer to the a hitscan system, rather than the more physics based projectile system that can offer a more immersive experience. However, according to the wording in the patent itself, Square Enix is somewhat aware that causing the aiming cursor to make the final decision that a shot has landed can cause a lack of interest on its own.

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Taking the words at face value, this new innovation is a decision making system, capable of transferring information from player inputs in a controller, to the game, and through the internet. A passage speaking specifically about the decision making process being relaying through a server implies that this patent may be related to an online, multiplayer shooter. So, this could be referring to titles coming as soon as People Can Fly's Outriders, but considering the timing of this patent application, it is likely looking further into the future.

square enix patent reticle

In addition to some language that might hint at the intent of the patent, some figures also show a handful of images that could give a more in-depth view of what the innovation might look like. Specifically speaking, Square Enix has shown what an early prototype of the reticle of this shooting system, though it might not be entirely reflective of the final product. It does, however, have a strong resemblance to Barret Wallace's aiming in Final Fantasy 7, and the game's overall lock-on indicator in general.

square enix patent

At this time, it's a little early to say exactly what the specific intent of this new patent is, as many games are often built up from an array of owned and licensed mechanics. Square Enix could be preparing for a whole new title that is centered around gun combat, or this could simply be one of many ways to engage with the game. Considering that the developer also acts as publisher for a number of games with similar combat, like Marvel's Avengers, there are more than a few options for what players can expect this upcoming innovation to look like.

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Source: USPTO