AR Card Battle Game using Image Recognition – IT & Computer Engineering Guide
1. Project Overview
The AR Card Battle Game is an augmented reality game where physical trading cards are scanned using a mobile device camera and brought to life with animated 3D characters. Players engage in card battles using AR overlays, with real-time image recognition and interactive gameplay mechanics driven by card attributes and player strategy.
2. System Architecture Overview
- AR Client: Renders card-based game elements and handles
user input.
- Image Recognition Engine: Identifies and tracks unique cards using their
visual markers.
- Game Logic Module: Executes turn-based game rules, animations, and
interactions.
- Optional Backend: Stores player data, cards collection, and multiplayer
matchmaking.
3. Hardware Components
|
Component |
Specifications |
Description |
|
Mobile Device |
iOS/Android with ARKit/ARCore support |
Main platform for AR gameplay |
|
Camera |
HD RGB camera |
Detects and tracks physical cards in real time |
|
AR Cards |
Printed with distinct artwork |
Physical interface for activating game elements |
|
Optional Server |
Cloud backend (Firebase/AWS) |
Handles multiplayer and card syncing |
4. Software Components
4.1 Development Tools
- Game Engine: Unity with Vuforia SDK or AR Foundation +
OpenCV
- AR SDKs: Vuforia (for marker-based tracking), ARKit/ARCore (for surface
detection)
- Cloud Services: Firebase for cloud save, leaderboards, authentication
- UI/UX Tools: Figma or Adobe XD for UI wireframes
4.2 Programming Languages
- C# (Unity scripts)
- Python (image recognition prototyping)
- JavaScript (backend scripts if using Firebase Functions)
4.3 Additional Libraries/Frameworks
- Vuforia SDK or OpenCV for card detection
- DOTween for UI and animation
- Photon or Firebase for multiplayer features
- JSON or ScriptableObjects for card data
5. Image Recognition and Tracking
- Image Target Setup: Each card must have a unique visual
feature or pattern.
- Detection Pipeline: Camera feed -> feature matching -> card ID
assignment.
- Anchoring: AR elements are spawned at card’s position in 3D space.
- Multi-Target Support: Allow simultaneous tracking of multiple cards.
6. Gameplay Mechanics
- Turn-Based Combat: Players alternate placing cards and
attacking.
- Card Stats: Attack, Defense, Type, Special Effects stored in metadata.
- AR Animations: Summon creatures, cast effects via AR overlays.
- Health/Power System: Based on strategic use of cards.
- Victory Conditions: Reduce opponent HP to 0 or eliminate cards.
7. Card Data Management
- Card Database: Each card is linked to image pattern and
JSON metadata.
- Card Unlocking: Via QR codes, achievements, or server sync.
- Storage: Local save with optional cloud sync using Firebase or PlayFab.
- Anti-cheat: Verify card legitimacy using hashes or signatures.
8. Networking and Cloud Integration
- Firebase Auth: For user login and device sync
- Realtime DB / Firestore: Stores player data and match records
- Multiplayer (Optional): Photon or PlayFab Multiplayer for real-time matches
- Remote Config: Update card stats without full app update
9. Testing and Optimization
- Image Detection Accuracy: Vary lighting, camera distance,
and angles.
- Performance: Target 60 FPS minimum.
- Asset Optimization: Compress 3D models and animations.
- Cross-Device Testing: Ensure AR performance on multiple screen sizes and OS
versions.
10. Deployment and Maintenance
- Platforms: iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play)
- Build Tools: Unity Cloud Build or CI/CD pipeline
- Update Mechanisms: Remote asset bundles and config data
- Analytics: Firebase Analytics, Unity Analytics for user behavior tracking
11. Security and Privacy
- No personal data collected without consent.
- Store only anonymized player IDs and scores.
- Use encrypted communication for multiplayer and cloud sync.
- Parental controls for in-game chat or multiplayer features.
12. Future Enhancements
- Voice-based commands and narration.
- NFT-based card ownership and trading (optional).
- Physical card crafting using AR printer visualization.
- PvP tournaments and ranked leagues.
- AR Sandbox mode for casual summoning and exploration.