"Without a smartphone, there's no game".

   - April 5, 2018

COBALT PROJECT

 

Inspired by paintball, COBALT PROJECT® has developed a unique game concept on the borderline between video games and live action. Equipped with high-tech equipment, including a CROSSCALL ACTION smartphone, players compete on a 28,000 m2 field of ultra-realistic scenery. Tactics, exploration and team spirit are the watchwords of this life-size video game. Embark on Call Of Duty IRL*.

ADRIEN, CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE COBALT PROJECT CONCEPT?

 

"At Cobalt Project, we're championing a new sporting discipline: Real Action Sport. Real Action Sport. Our concept is often described as a real-life video game. The idea is to combine the spirit of video games with sensational sports.

 

The rule of the game is simple: "explore, activate, score". You have to explore a Map (a 30,000m2 play area) to activate electronic terminals, which earn you points. Obviously, the more experience you have in the game, the more points you earn and the more scenarios you can access.

 

Everything is based on software that we have created and developed: the C.O.S (Cobalt Operating System). It collects live player data (time, actions, position, etc.) and influences the actual course of the game. The possibilities are virtually infinite.

 

In addition to the tack, full-face helmet and ODK (Opponent Distance Keeper, a tool for keeping opponents at a distance), each player is equipped with a " C.O.S Mob ". A custom-made glove to which an ACTION smartphone is attached, containing our game software. This terminal is the nerve center. Without weapons, it's possible to continue playing, but without a phone, there's no game. It centralizes the player's information and sends it back to the server.

 

The software we have developed is used not only for leisure activities, but also to train special forces during private sessions (GIGN, brigades canines...)".

WHY CHOOSE CROSSCALL PHONES?

 

"We chose to equip ourselves with ACTION because smartphones are put to the test at home. They're on the front line.

As in Call Of Duty(editor's note: famous video game), they are placed on the forearm. So we need screens that can withstand the impact of marbles, and terminals that remain functional in all situations, because our players don't hesitate to throw themselves into water or mud.

 

These smartphones are also extremely reliable in terms of GPS positioning and roaming, i.e. they switch very quickly from one antenna to another on the Map (the game map).

 

We've tested lots of other phones, but these have the added advantage of being light, thin, attractive and solid.

WHAT ARE THE NEXT AVENUES OF DEVELOPMENT FOR COBALT PROJECT?

 

"Our historic site is in Lutry, near Lausanne in Switzerland, but a second will soon open in Brussels, followed by two others in Paris and Vallauris. We have registered the concept and algorithm in the United States, and next year we'll be opening another site in California."

 

 

 

IRL* = "In Real Life". Geek expression for "in real life", as opposed to virtual life.

Call Of Duty is a famous first-person shooter set during the Second World War.

IN PICTURES