Geek Native features Kickstarters for new RPGs often. Sometimes the blog talks about computer games. Rarely there’s a hardware story. PocketScan was not created for gamers but, wow, check out the uses.
Some concerns here. Just because scanning could be easy does not mean gamers should scan copyright books. Authors in this industry don’t get rich by writing so it helps if you’re willing to pay for the games or comic books you use.
This campaign launched today, the 16th, and needs just $50,000 to hit success. We’re a few hours in and over $23,000 already. Looks like this one will be a smash hit. If you’re quick – a perk of being a loyal Geek Native reader – you can scoop an early bird on the PocketScan and pick it up for $80.
That said – Kickstarter hardware deals are prone to over promising and under delivering. These are the campaigns most likely to mess up big style. I’ve backed many and struggle to think of a stand-out hero product from my efforts so far.
Nevertheless, I think this is an interesting product. I like the idea of being able to scan in maps and player handouts. This is especially useful for groups that use Roll20 or other virtual tabletop tools.
I like the idea of being able to backup a character sheet at the end of a gaming weekend by taking a quick scan. I like the idea of being able to scan a battlemap just as dinner arrives so you can clean the table, enjoy your food and then recreate the scene afterwards.
The Dadcuda software has OCR to the point where text opens – and edits – in Word. This means you can make revisions off old print outs nice and easily.
It’s tempting. What do you think? Are you a publisher who worries about tech like this? It would be great to have your thoughts as well.
