Unlike like other consoles connected to the TV, the AppleTV is already super simple to use. It can be extended with peripherals that allow greater interaction, but at its core its extremely simple. This core feature would give it greater acceptance as a device used by all family members. It would muscle itself into the much vaulted casual gaming market by starting off not as a game console. What is the gaming potential of the AppleTV if Apple released a Software Development Kit ?
Scaling Complexity Via the Controller
The AppleTV could start as an extremely simple gaming console. Simple games could be played with its very simple existing remote with just a few buttons. For example simple games like chess, cards, or board games. This extremely simple controller would introduce new people into gaming.
iPhone or Touch as Controller
Interaction complexity could be added via an iPod Touch or iPhone. The iPhone screen could also be used as a private view screen for users competing against each other, for example in Scrabble, Poker, or even football offensive and defensive plays. The motion sensor in the iphone or Touch could be used as a Wii like controller. For example Football games are far more fun when the other player has no idea what play they are about to set in motion. This is possible by using the iPhone as a secondary screen.The actual games could be simple. Set the play in motion by selecting plays with the iPhone, but keep the game simple. For example player one would only control the quarterback throwing the ball by making the motion with the Touch.
Example of Scaling Functionality
A fitness program could be used simple as a series of canned exercises controlled in order by the simple AppleTV remote. If the app senses an iPhone it would request the user hold the remote in certain ways, then track progress. The app could be further extended via an iPhone app. After the user goes for a run, the iPhone app would sync with the AppleTV app, and show a history, mapping, gps charting, and competition stats with friends.
Social Networking as the Community Glue
Unlike Sony Playstation, Nintendo, or Xbox proprietary networks, games on the iPhone are enjoying success using popular social networking tools such as Facebook for cross network game interaction, since people are already on these networks. Popular social networks could become the social glue for the AppleTV, play the facebook poker edition on a computer or in the comfort of your own living room?
Hardware
The AppleTV hardware is already built for extension with its USB port. It could be used to add the motion controller, extra storage space, or an iChat friendly camera.
Summary
The AppleTV as a gaming platform is exactly what the market needs. Despite maneuvers by the 3 console makers to be the center of the living room, none meet the criteria of a very simple basic device that grows into a gaming device. The AppleTV starts simple, and can become more complex by adding the patented motion controller or iPhone platform.
The article with pictures can be read at http://idea.wirus.com
