System and method for controlling access to a massively multiplayer on-line role-playing game

Abstract

A method for controlling access to a massively multi-player, online role-playing game begins by presenting a web page to a first user. The web page receives a parameter for controlling access of a second user to a massively multi-player, online role-playing game. The received parameter is transmitted to a database server, which stores the received parameter in a database record associated with the second user. A game server receives a connection request from the second user and controls access of the second user to the massively multi-player, online role-playing game using the stored parameter.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION [0001] This invention relates generally to multiplayer computer games, and in particular, to methods for limiting access to a massively multiplayer on-line role- playing game. BACKGROUND [0002] A massively multiplayer game (“MMP”) is a computer game played by a large number of users through a communications network, which can be a local area network (e.g., Ethernet), a medium-area network (e.g., an intranet), or a wide-area network (e.g., the Internet). In addition, the communications network can be a wireless network, a cellular network or any other system which facilitates the transmission of data. In MMPs, humans and their avatars within the game (“players”) are free to interact with other players as well as autonomous “non-player characters” which inhabit and are part of the game. Early examples of MMPs include games such as Ultima Online, EverQuest, and CrossGate. [0003] Most MMPs are fantasy role-playing games (“RPGs”) which take place within a mythical or m...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

In addition, many MMPs do not even define an absolute game endpoint, making the end of a game a logical impossibility.

Unfortunately, the ongoing, immersive nature of massively multiplayer on-line role playing games (MMORPGs) causes many players to spend large amounts of time engaged in active game play.

Some players may fear missing an important development in the game.

A second problem associated with MMORPGs is that the “world” in which play take place is a virtual one that is not easily monitored by supervising individuals.

For example, in the case of minors, a parent or guardian has no way of knowing when or for how long the player has played the game, nor can a parent or guardian ensure that the minor does not engage in objectionable behavior while playing the game.

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