Method of playing poker

Abstract

The invention comprises multiple methods for playing a game of poker over a communication network such as the internet which are simple and easy to learn. In a first method, all participants place bets of equal value into a pot with no additional opportunities to raise or place additional bets. In a second method, players are provided with an option to place bets on various rules of winning, wherein bets are paid depending on the outcome of the three-card flop. In a third method, players are presented with timed intervals during which players can place a fixed bet into the pot to be eligible to stay in the hand. Significantly, all players decide whether to place additional bets simultaneously or during the same time interval rather than sequentially as is done in traditional versions of poker.

Description

[0001] This application claims the priority date of U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 60 / 638,321 filed on Dec. 22, 2004 which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to a method of playing a game of cards. More specifically, this invention involves variable methods of playing a game of poker for avid players and novices alike, thereby providing more excitement and enjoyment to poker players of all different skill levels. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Although the origins of the variety of poker known as “Texas Holdem” are unclear, nowadays it appears to be the most common style of poker that is played. Players of this style of poker are invariably passionate about playing the game itself as well as eager to access a collection of educational resources in order to improve their Texas Holdem poker skills. Other forms of poker, including Omaha and Seven Card Stud, have likewise become very popular in recent years...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014] A further objective of the present invention is to provide a method for playing poker which permits amateur poker players to compete against proficient players on a level playing field. In connection with this objective, a method described herein provides for transforming traditional games of poker that typically require a minimum amount of skill into a game of fixed odds wherein each participant generally has the same chance of winning as the next.

[0015] Another further objective is to provide a method for playing poker which preserves the fun and excitement of the traditional game of live or online poker but which is less mentally demanding.

[0016] A still further objective is to provide a method for playing poker which provides poker players with an alternate outlet for playing poker during periods of physical or mental fatigue, thereby allowing them to continue to play poker with reduced adverse affects.

[0017] An additional objective is to provide a method of playing poker which significantly decreases the amount of time that players must endure until the start of the next hand at any given table.

[0019] In its broadest aspects the invention comprises multiple methods for playing a game of poker which are simple and easy to learn. Importantly, each of the methods described herein are less complicated than traditional poker games such as Texas Holdem, Omaha and Seven Card Stud, yet have the capacity to elicit an increased amount of enthusiasm and pleasure for proficient players and novices alike.

[0021] Notwithstanding the similarities with respect to the traditional number and method for the dealing of the cards, the methods described herein are distinct and designed to significantly reduce the requisite skill and focus that are generally required to excel at traditional versions of these games.

Problems solved by technology

Thus, players who are deeply interested in participating often find themselves abstaining from play as a result of the perception that they do not possess the requisite skills to play with “seasoned” or even marginally experienced players.

Another shortcoming with respect to the game of poker is that it requires players to maintain a high level of vigilance and attention at all times. With respect to beginners, who are attempting to absorb the basic rules as well as the intricacies of the game, this is especially difficult.

Furthermore, even for experienced players, having to stay alert poses a considerable dilemma, particularly after many uninterrupted hours of playing without rest.

Often times, players who are fatigued lose concentration and become impatient, causing them to make poor decisions during the course of play.

A further deficiency in the game of poker is that players who decide to fold before the end of the hand must endure long stretches of time waiting for the start of the next hand.

This lends itself to increased impulsiveness and poor play.

While the problem of waiting between hands is somewhat alleviated by online poker sites which allow participants to play at multiple tables simultaneously, playing at multiple tables prevents participants from concentrating on opponents at a given table, thereby forcing participants to undesirably spread their attention beyond optimal levels.

In addition, at casinos and other gambling establishments, poker does not provide for significant profits (relative to other table games such as blackjack and roulette).

However, the rake-percentages or tournament fees which are earned by the house are significantly limited.

Likewise, even in the context of online poker, where the number of tables at a website is not limited by physical space (as in a live gaming establishment), the rake-percentages and tournament fees are also limited.