Mattel HyperScan

The Mattel HyperScan is a 7th generation video game console marketed at children between the ages of 8 and 11 who have outgrown traditional plug and play games but may not be ready for high-end video or PC games in terms of maturity or expense.

Released in October 2006, the console uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, and combines traditional video game technology with collectible cards that can be scanned into the console to give the player access to game characters and powers.

The games are supplied on a CD-based medium (UDF format disks), which contain an EXE file and game data (note that the .exe file cannot be opened on a PC). The console has two controller ports, and a scanning mechanism that writes to and reads from special HyperScan cards which, in turn, save data and activate features in the game. When players have finished a game, they can scan in their card to update their character's skills and experience level. The cards can also be transported and used in other HyperScan consoles, allowing users to play their characters on their friends consoles.

The current licensed games available are Marvel X-Men, Cartoon Network's Ben 10 and Interstellar Wrestling League, all rated for age 10 and up.