Apparatus, systems and methods for implementing enhanced gaming and prizing parameters in an electronic environment

Abstract

System and methods are provided for effecting user experience in an electronic game environment through use of virtual currency or vCoins. In a multi-level game, the systems and methods include memory for storing information on game play, the information including input received from the user, information relating to levels within the multi-level game and game display information for output to the user. A processor is coupled to the memory for generating game play information, preferably including game play with virtual money. The virtual money is acquired through game play or cash purchase. The virtual money is convertible into a non-cash good comprising advancement to another level within the game.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13 / 584,080, filed Aug. 13, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10 / 559,119, filed Jun. 27, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,241,110, which claims priority of PCT / US04 / 28560, filed Sep. 1, 2004, which are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]These inventions relate to methods, and systems and apparatus for their implementation, of unique player participation games, and for improved methods of play for games of chance and skill. More particularly, these inventions relate to new and improved games involving player participation in a broadcast medium, such as television, and in other communication media, such as over the Internet, mobile phones or other communications networks and devices.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Player participation games fall broadly under the categories of games of chance and...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0021]The systems and methods of these inventions permit greatly enhanced flexibility in game play and the prizing experience for a player, while globally achieving the mandated parameters. These systems and methods may be utilized with any type of game play, including but not limited to predetermined games, outcome games and games of skill. Predetermined games are those in which a player's actions do not affect the game outcome. Predetermined games may be either scripted, wherein the result is a priori determined, or dynamic, in which variable game play occurs. Outcome games, namely those in which a player's actions can affect the game's outcome, may include probability games, both simple probability games and hybrid games in which skill and probability affect the outcome, and games of skill.

[0024]Generally, the methods consist of a series of electronic interactions between the user of the system, as players of games or interacting users with an entertainment device, which are controlled to achieve desired game play and prizing criteria. By varying the interaction of the system with the users so as to achieve the desired game play and prizing parameters, the game experience may be enhanced while also ensuring that the desired prizing criteria are achieved.

[0029]In yet another aspect, game play in the first phase may be made to simulate game play using real world or actual probabilities. The results provided to the player in the first phase may be set to provide winning outcomes which would be expected based on true game probabilities. The predefined prizing parameters are utilized in the second, prizing phase to ensure that the game as a whole achieves the proper payout. By separating the first play phase from the prizing phase, the player experience in the first phase may be set as desired. For example, the first phase game play may be set where the player ‘wins’ at a probability greater than the true game probability. Since the player must complete the prizing phase, the system can correct the first phase perception of a heightened probability of wins in the second, prizing phase. The system may also provide the player with an enhanced number of ‘near wins’, such as where the player achieves a score which was close to a win, but not sufficient to win. Player interest may be maintained, while also maintaining the prizing structure and parameters.

[0056]It is yet a further object of this invention to provide an improved game of chance having a higher level of audience interest and potential participation.

[0058]It is yet a further object of this invention to provide for enhanced modes of game play in association with existing forms of game play.

[0060]It is yet a further aspect of these inventions to provide for an enhanced electronic game play experience.

Problems solved by technology

In the online environment, the system can store a Destiny Code and not allow the code to be played twice.

The compact disc permits creation of a password, thereby providing limited access to the game.

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