Augmented-reality gaming and J.K. Rowling meet in Sony's new Wonderbook; see how it works.
Scott Stein
I started with CNET reviewing laptops in 2009. Now I explore wearable tech, VR/AR, tablets, gaming and future/emerging trends in our changing world. Other obsessions include magic, immersive theater, puzzles, board games, cooking, improv and the New York Jets. My background includes an MFA in theater which I apply to thinking about immersive experiences of the future.
The Wonderbook is a collection of graphic AR codes spread across a series of pages; no text in this book. Placed in front of your TV, it works along with the PlayStation Eye and PlayStation Move.
2 of 8 Scott Stein/CNET
Much like Sony's EyePet, actions are mirrored on the screen. The book gains beautiful illustrations and text, and animated objects pop out.
3 of 8 Scott Stein/CNET
The "book" itself is a series of boards with AR codes. The Wonderbook will be a universal peripheral, working with all future titles (not just "Book of Spells").
4 of 8 Scott Stein/CNET
Here's the cover of the Wonderbook, which Sony says is also waterproof. It's durably built.
5 of 8 Scott Stein/CNET
Interacting with the Wonderbook onscreen.
6 of 8 Scott Stein/CNET
Some parts of "Book of Spells," the J.K. Rowling Wonderbook Sony demonstrated, turn into more-traditional mini-games controlled by the Move.
