Atmo: Revolutionizing Tabletop Gaming with Augmented Reality

Gabor Balint's Award-Winning Interactive Boardgame Console Merges Physical and Digital Worlds

The inspiration for Atmo came from an experiment with interactive lights to enhance boardgame immersion. Over time, it evolved into a standalone device, akin to a Playstation for boardgames. Balint's vision was to retain the physical elements of boardgames while introducing new functionality through digitalisation. The use of projected boards opened up possibilities for entirely new game mechanics.

Atmo's unique feature is its projected Augmented Reality (AR) interface. Players interact with the games using physical dice, tokens, figures, and more. The console recognises these elements and their positions, responding with animations, light, and sound effects. This fusion of the quick, intense feedback of video games with the social and tangible aspects of traditional boardgames creates an immersive and fun experience for all ages.

The console's structure features CNC milled oak legs and an oak Multiplex plywood table surface, with bent sheet metal joints and an inner structure. It also includes 3D printed details. The console measures 1300mm in width, 800mm in depth, and 2020mm in height, with a projection resolution of 1280px by 800px.

Interaction with Atmo is facilitated through physical objects like dice, cards, tokens, and figures. An operating knob on one edge of the table allows players to switch games, adjust the number of players, and more. Interactive tutorials help players learn the rules of each game, eliminating the often tedious process of learning a new boardgame.

The development of Atmo began in 2015 in Eindhoven and concluded in 2018 in Budapest. It was part of the Kibu Talent program in Budapest in 2016 and the Startup Sauna accelerator program in Helsinki in 2017. The console has been exhibited globally, including at Essen Spiel 2017, Slush 2017 in Helsinki, and PlayIt 2018 in Budapest.

Atmo's design process involved iterative prototyping and extensive user testing. Over 40 different prototypes were built, each incorporating learnings from previous versions. Feedback from users was instrumental in refining the design and functionality of the console. The result is a modular product that allows for quick upgrades and easy A/B testing.

Despite the challenges of fitting all the necessary electronic components into one product and managing heat generation, Balint and his team successfully created a compact, cost-effective product. The final design optimises assembly ease and manufacturing cost, allowing for the production of more devices on a limited budget.

Atmo represents a significant step forward in the gaming industry, offering a unique blend of physical and digital gaming that is both immersive and social. It's a testament to the power of innovative design and technology in enhancing our lifestyle and entertainment experiences.