LyteShot
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Augmented reality gaming |
| Founded | December 2012 |
| Founder | Mark Ladd, David Brooks |
| Headquarters | Chicago , United States |
Key people | Mark Ladd (CEO), Tom Ketola (former CTO) |
| Products | Lyter device, LytePuck receiver, mobile game applications, SDK |
LyteShot was an augmented reality gaming platform introduced in 2015 that combined sensor-driven hardware with smartphones and the Internet of Things (IoT) to facilitate real-world multiplayer gaming. Functioning on both iOS and Android devices, it utilized Bluetooth Low Energy for peripheral connectivity and cloud-based data transmission, enabling referee-free live-action role-playing and first-person shooter experiences.
Overview
The LyteShot ecosystem consisted of three main components: the portable "Lyter" device, the wearable "LytePuck" receiver, and mobile game applications compatible with LyteShot technology. Together, these parts delivered immersive augmented reality gameplay. Players could attach various weapon or tool peripherals to the Lyter, which could be personalized through design modifications and 3D printing. An available software development kit (SDK) empowered third-party developers to build games compatible with the platform, broadening its range of offerings.
The company’s premier title, Assassin: The Game, transformed the classic live-action game into a first-person shooter format by leveraging LyteShot’s technological capabilities. The platform received multiple accolades including a CES Innovation Design Award in Gaming Hardware and Accessories, Game Connection’s Most Original/Creative Project award, and the Auggie Award for Best Game at Augmented World Expo (AWE). LyteShot made its initial appearance at CES 2015 as a highlighted developer for Epson Moverio BT-200 smartglasses.
Established in December 2012 by CEO Mark Ladd—an architect with expertise in 3D data visualization—and mechanical engineer David Brooks (who left in 2013), LyteShot was based in Chicago, Illinois. From 2014 to 2015, Tom Ketola, previously affiliated with Activision and Disney Interactive Studios, held the position of CTO. The company carved out a niche in the augmented reality gaming sector by merging innovative hardware solutions with mobile software aimed at gamers interested in engaging outdoor experiences.