Hospitality feature of an electronic gaming system and method of operation

Abstract

An electronic gaming system has a plurality of tables each having a plurality of electronic player interaction areas (EPIA's) spaced preferably about a table periphery so that a gaming player locates oneself in front of a respective EPIA to play a game. A computer-based controller of the system assigns any one of preferably a variety of games to any one table. The player is then free to choose what game he / she desires to play by picking a particular table. The gaming system has a host console that communicates with each EPIA via the controller for managerial control of the plurality of tables. A software-based hospitality feature is integrated into the electronic gaming system for logging players in and out of a game, monitoring and recording of game play, enabling efficient waiter service, assisting security personal and preferably establishing confidential communications with the floor manager or host.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60 / 683,810, filed May 23, 2005, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application (Ser. No. Not Available; Atty. Docket No. 60,667-091), both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to an electronic gaming system and method of operation and more particularly to a hospitality feature of the system and method of operating the same. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Gaming is an increasingly popular form of entertainment. Games, particularly, games of chance and skill where one or more players play and place wagers on a desired and / or predicted outcome can be played in a variety of ways and in a variety of places, including at a casino or other venue or on the Internet. Of the various forms of games that are available for play, many utilize playing cards. Of these, poker is argu...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011] Benefits and advantages of the present invention include an automated electronic gaming system that enhances communication between game players and the host of a gaming establishment, alerts the host of potential problems before they occur, enhances security, better detects possible collusion between players for the benefit of the remaining players, improves beverage and food service and decreases outside distractions for the benefit of the players during the game. Other advantages include a simplification of funding player accounts and the general elimination of cumbersome, physical, chips.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, traditional poker is potentially prone to human dealer error.

One major drawback of internet and stand-alone type games is the lack of the human element.

Although the electronic gaming system and related software has unique advantages of particular benefit to the gaming establishment, it does not fully conceive of potential benefits for the players.

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