System and method for delivering electronic media content on a multi-level basis

Abstract

A system and method for delivering an electronic video game allows a consumer to purchase the game in sequential portions. The video game is broken down into incremental portions that are each individually available for sale. A consumer purchases a first portion of the video game that contains the first level, or set of levels, of the game. When the first portion is completed by the consumer, the consumer can then buy the next sequential portion for an additional incremental sum of money. The incremental portions may contain one or more levels. Similarly, the initial purchase vehicle may contain the entire game and a consumer purchases key codes to access subsequent portions of the game.

Description

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to a system and method for increasing purchases, customer retention and customer satisfaction related to the purchase of electronic media content, including, but not limited to, video games. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system and method for offering and delivering electronic video games in sequential portions, i.e. sequential levels or sets of levels, where a customer initially purchases only a first level, or levels, of the game and the next sequential levels are purchased after they have completed the level, or levels, that they have already purchased. In this manner, the cost of the initial purchase is reduced while customer satisfaction is increased for the overall media experience.[0002]The marketplace for electronic media has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade. For purposes of this application, the term “electronic media content” is intended to mean me...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0001]The present invention relates generally to a system and method for increasing purchases, customer retention and customer satisfaction related to the purchase of electronic media content, including, but not limited to, video games. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system and method for offering and delivering electronic video games in sequential portions, i.e. sequential levels or sets of levels, where a customer initially purchases only a first level, or levels, of the game and the next sequential levels are purchased after they have completed the level, or levels, that they have already purchased. In this manner, the cost of the initial purchase is reduced while customer satisfaction is increased for the overall media experience.

Problems solved by technology

However, traditional video game distribution models have not changed over the years.

Accordingly, there is a perceived drawback in the prior art distribution model, in that video games are distributed as “complete” version of the game under a single title.

A problem with this method of distribution is that many consumers do not complete all of the levels within the game title that they purchased.

Often they get bored with the game, do not have sufficient time to dedicate to playing the game or simply decide that they do not like the game.

This drawback in the existing distribution scheme has spawned “used” video game distribution channels, where retail video game outlets will exchange used games for credit towards other purchases.

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