Systems and methods for remotely providing goods/services to gaming customers

Abstract

An system for gaming customers to remotely order goods and / or services through use of player points is disclosed. The player points relate to gaming activity. The system comprises at least one computer system. The computer system includes a processor and memory in electronic communication with the processor. The computer system also includes a communications interface in electronic communication with the processor. A request is received from a player terminal through the communications interface to access the system. The player is provided with account information. Goods and / or services information is presented to the player at a player terminal display. The goods and / or services information relate to items that may be ordered by the player. Order instructions are sent for order fulfillment. Used player points are debited for the order from the player points.

Description

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[Not Applicable]MICROFICHE / COPYRIGHT REFERENCE[Not Applicable]BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates generally to gaming systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and methods for remotely providing goods / services to gaming customers including in exchange for loyalty points awarded during wagering activity.Gaming machines, such as slot machines or poker machines (collectively referred to herein as “slot machines”), as well as live table games and (where permitted) sports wagering are popular, exciting, and sophisticated wagering activities available at casinos and other gambling locations. Competition between casinos has intensified as competitors vie for business from patrons.In order to induce loyalty among gaming patrons it is known to provide players with machine readable player tracking cards (sometimes called “loyalty” cards). These cards are issued by the casinos and typically bear machine ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention is a system and method that allows players to use their accumulated comp points to purchase goods and services at a casino. The system includes a computer system, a processor, and a memory to facilitate players to remotely exchange their comp points for goods and services. The system controls the display to present the available goods and services information to the player, and the player can select and order items through the terminal. The system can also display advertising and banners to players to encourage play. Comp points can be accrued from gaming activity and other economic activities, and players can enroll in a registry to select goods and services they would like to receive as a gift. Overall, the system provides a convenient and efficient way for players to use their comp points to purchase goods and services at a casino."

Problems solved by technology

Since comp points, according to the prior art, were strictly directed toward getting a patron to wager and enabling the player to only use their points in the casino (or affiliated casinos such as any casino in a chain or affiliate group), the options open to the player as to the redemption of their points are limited.

They, according to the prior art, were limited to only casino-provided goods and services.

Further there are overhead costs such as employees, floor space, etc. associated with stocking comp redeemable goods.

These drawbacks have limited the impact and effectiveness of the casino's loyalty points and awards program.

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