Electronic computers and digital processing systems involving inter-program or inter-process communication regarding amusement devices and games

Abstract

To realize systems and methods for determining weights for consensus odds among sports books.SOLUTION: A system includes a function of determining consensus odds on the basis of odds for each wager at each wagering venue. Each odd for the wager in each wagering venue have a weight for the consensus odds proportional to each total wager of each wagering venue in the plurality of wagering venues in a market.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Related to electronic computers and digital processing systems. [Background technology]

[0002] This invention relates to electronic computers and digital processing systems involving inter-program or inter-process communication relating to amusement devices and games. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Some embodiments may include interactions between sportsbooks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] Various other systems and methods are described. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an apparatus for playing a game, according to some embodiments. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of multiple interacting wagering venues. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an example method that may be performed in some embodiments. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an example method that may be performed in some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] Sections I through X below provide guidelines for interpreting this application.

[0007] I. Terminology The term "product" means any machine, manufacture and / or composition of matter, unless otherwise specified.

[0008] As used herein, the term "process" refers to a process, algorithm, methodology, or the like, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0009] Each process (whether called a method, algorithm, or otherwise) inherently includes one or more steps. Any reference to the "steps" of a process has an inherent antecedent basis in the mere recitation of the word "process" or a similar word. Thus, any reference in a claim to the "steps" of a process has a sufficient antecedent basis.

[0010] Words like "invention" and the like mean "one or more inventions disclosed in this application" unless otherwise specified.

[0011] The words "an embodiment," "embodiment," "embodiments," "the embodiment," "the illustration," "one or more illustrations," "some illustrations," "certain illustrations," "one embodiment," "another embodiment," and the like refer to "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention disclosed in this application," unless otherwise specified.

[0012] The term "variations" of the present invention refers to embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise specified.

[0013] Reference to "another embodiment" in describing an embodiment does not imply that the referenced embodiment is mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment described prior to the referenced embodiment) unless otherwise specified.

[0014] The words "including," "comprising," and variations thereof mean "including, but not necessarily limited to," unless expressly stated otherwise. So, for example, the sentence "The portfolio includes a red widget and a blue widget" means that the portfolio includes a red widget and a blue widget, but may also include others.

[0015] The word "consisting of" and variations thereof mean "including and limited to," unless expressly stated otherwise. So, for example, the sentence "the portfolio consists of red widgets and blue widgets" means that the portfolio includes red widgets and blue widgets, but nothing else.

[0016] The word "comprise" and variations thereof, unless otherwise specified, means to constitute a constituent part, component, or member of. Thus, for example, the sentence "The red widget and the blue widget comprise a portfolio" means that the portfolio includes the red widget and the blue widget.

[0017] The term "exclusively comprise" and variations thereof, unless otherwise specified, means exclusively comprised of, being the only component of, or being the only member of, its constituent parts. Thus, for example, the sentence "The red widget and the blue widget exclusively comprise the portfolio" means that the portfolio includes the red widget and the blue widget, but nothing else.

[0018] In this specification and claims, the words "a," "an," and "the" mean "one or more," unless otherwise specified.

[0019] As used herein and in the claims, the term "plurality" means "two or more" unless otherwise specified.

[0020] The term "herein" in this application refers to the inclusion of whatever material may be incorporated by reference, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0021] The phrase "at least one of," when used to modify a plurality of items (e.g., an enumerated list of items), refers to a combination of one or more of the items, unless expressly stated otherwise. For example, the phrase "at least one of a widget, a car, and a wheel" refers to (i) a widget, (ii) a car, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a widget and a car, (v) a widget and a wheel, (vi) a car and a wheel, or (vii) a widget, a car and a wheel. The phrase "at least one of," when such phrase modifies a plurality of items, does not refer to "one of each of the plurality of items."

[0022] The numbers "1", "2", etc., when used as a cardinality to indicate a quantity of something (e.g., 1 widget, 2 widgets), represent the quantity represented by the number, but not at least the quantity represented by the number. For example, the phrase "one widget" does not represent "at least one widget," and thus the phrase "one widget" does not encompass, for example, two widgets.

[0023] In the present specification and claims, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless expressly stated otherwise. That is, the phrase "based on" means "based only on" and "based at least on." In the present specification and claims, the phrase "based at least on" is equivalent to the phrase "based at least in part on."

[0024] The word "represent" and similar words used in this specification and claims are not exclusive unless expressly stated otherwise. For example, the word "represents" does not mean "only represents," unless expressly stated otherwise. That is, the phrase "The data represented by the above-mentioned is a credit card number" should be interpreted as "The data represents only a credit card number" and "The data represents a credit card number, and the data represents other things as well."

[0025] The word "whereby" is used only to precede a clause or other set of words that expressly indicates only the intended result, purpose, or consequence of what precedes and is expressly recited. Thus, when the word "whereby" is used in a claim, the clause or other word that it modifies will not be deemed to impose any further specific limitations on the claim or to limit the meaning or scope of the claim.

[0026] Words such as "eg" mean "for example," and thus do not limit the word or phrase they describe. For example, in the sentence "the computer sends data (eg, instructions, a data structure) over the Internet," the word "eg" describes an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet, and also describes that a "data structure" is an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet. However, both "insutructions" and "data structure" are merely examples of "data," and things other than "instructions" and "data structure" can also be "data."

[0027] Words such as "respective" mean "considered individually." Thus, when two or more things have "respective" characteristics, each of said things has its own characteristic, and said characteristics may, but need not, differ from one another. For example, the phrase "each of two machines has a respective function" means that said first machine has a function and said second machine also has a function. The function of the first machine may or may not be the same as the function of the second machine.

[0028] Words such as "ie" mean "that is," and thus limit the word or phrase it describes. For example, in the sentence "the computer sends data (ie, instructions) over the Internet," the word "ie" describes that the "instructions" are the "data" that the computer sends over the Internet.

[0029] Any specified numerical range includes whole and fractional numbers within that range. For example, the range "1 to 10" is intended to specifically include all whole numbers between 1 and 10 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, ... 9), as well as non-whole numbers (e.g., 1.1, 1.2, ... 1.9).

[0030] Where two or more words or phrases are synonymous (e.g., because they are expressly stated to be synonymous), the presence of one such word / phrase does not indicate that the presence of another such word / phrase must have a different meaning. For example, if one description renders the meaning of "including" synonymous with "including but not limited to," the mere use of the phrase "including but not limited to" does not mean that the word "including" refers to anything other than "including but not limited to."

[0031] II. "Determining" "Determining" and its grammatical variations (e.g., "to determine a price," "determining a value," "determine an object which meets a certain criterion") are used in an extremely broad sense. The term "determining" encompasses a wide range of actions, and thus, "determining" can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up (e.g., looking up in a table, database or other data structure), ascertaining, and the like. Additionally, "determining" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory), and the like. Additionally, "determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like.

[0032] The term "determining" does not imply certainty or absolute precision; thus, "determining" may include estimation, extrapolation, prediction, inference, and the like.

[0033] The term "determining" does not imply that mathematical processing must be performed, that numerical methods must be used, or that an algorithm or process must be used.

[0034] The term "determining" does not imply that a particular device must be used. For example, a computer does not necessarily have to make the determination.

[0035] III. Sentence Form In a second claim that depends from a first claim where a limitation of the first claim encompasses one of the configurations or more than one of the configurations (e.g., a limitation such as "at least one widget" encompasses one widget as well as more than one widget), the second claim uses the definite article "the" to express the limitation ("the widget"), but this does not suggest that the first claim encompasses only one of the configurations (e.g., "the widget" can encompass one widget as well as more than one widget).

[0036] When ordinal numbers (such as "first," "second," "third," etc.) are used as adjectives before a word, the ordinal numbers (unless otherwise specified) are used only to indicate a particular configuration (such as to distinguish that particular configuration from another configuration represented by the same or a similar word). For example, a "first widget" may be so named only to distinguish it from, for example, a "second widget." Thus, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the word "widget" does not indicate any other relationship between the two widgets, nor does it indicate any other characteristics of either one or both widgets. For example, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the word "widget" (1) does not indicate whether a widget comes before or after another in order or location, (2) does not indicate that a widget occurs or operates before or after any other in time, or (3) does not indicate that any widget is ranked above or below any other in importance or quality. Moreover, the mere use of ordinal numbers does not prescribe numerical limits on the configurations identified by the ordinal numbers. For example, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the word "widget" does not indicate that there may not be more than two widgets.

[0037] Where a single device, article or other product is described herein and claimed, two or more devices / articles (whether or not cooperating) may alternatively be used in place of said single device / article, and thus functionality described as possessed by a device may alternatively be possessed by two or more devices / products (whether or not cooperating).

[0038] Similarly, where two or more devices, articles or other products are described herein (whether in cooperation or not), a single device / article may alternatively be used in place of two or more of said devices or articles. For example, multiple computer-based devices may be replaced by a single computer-based device. Thus, various functionality described as being possessed by two devices or products may alternatively be possessed by a single device / product.

[0039] The functionality and / or configuration of a single device described above may alternatively be performed by one or more other devices that are described but not explicitly described as having the functionality / configuration described above. Thus, other embodiments may not include the device described above per se, but may include one or more other devices that have the functionality / configuration described in the other embodiments described above.

[0040] IV. The disclosed examples and terminology are not limiting.

[0041] Neither the Title (which appears at the beginning of the first page) nor the Abstract (which appears at the end of the application) shall be construed in any manner as limiting the scope of the disclosed invention(s) of this application, nor shall they be used to interpret the meaning or limit the scope of any claims. The Abstract is included in this application only as required under 37 CFR § 1.72(b).

[0042] The title of this application and the headings of the sections provided herein are for convenience only and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure of this application in any manner. Numerous embodiments are described in this application, which are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not intended to be limiting in any sense. The invention disclosed herein is broadly applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from the disclosure of this application. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention disclosed herein can be implemented with various modifications and alterations, such as structural, logical, software, and electrical modifications. Although a particular configuration of the invention disclosed herein may be described with reference to one or more specific embodiments and / or figures, the aforementioned configurations are not intended to be limited in use to the embodiments described with reference or to the accompanying figures, unless otherwise specified.

[0043] Although an embodiment may be disclosed as including certain features, other embodiments of the invention may include less than all of the features described above. Thus, for example, the claims may relate to less than the entire set of features in the disclosed embodiment, and the foregoing claims may not include more features than those recited in the claims.

[0044] None of the embodiment method steps or product components described in this application constitute, are essential to, or are coextensive with the claimed invention unless expressly stated in this specification or the claims.

[0045] The claim preambles of this application merely recite the purpose, benefits and possible uses of the claimed invention, and are not intended to limit the claimed invention.

[0046] The present specification and claims are not an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the invention, nor is the present disclosure a listing of features of the invention that must be present in all embodiments.

[0047] Not all disclosed embodiments are necessarily encompassed by the claims (including pending, amended, issued, and cancelled claims). Moreover, an embodiment may be encompassed by any number of claims (although not necessarily). Thus, the fact that a claim (whether pending, amended, issued, or cancelled) is directed to a particular embodiment is not evidence that the scope of other claims does not encompass that embodiment.

[0048] Devices described as being in communication with each other do not have to be in communication all the time, unless otherwise specified. Rather, such devices may transmit to each other only as necessary or desirable, and may in fact refrain from exchanging data most of the time. For example, a machine that communicates with another machine over the Internet may not transmit data to the other machine for long periods of time (e.g., weeks at a time). Furthermore, devices that communicate with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.

[0049] A description of an embodiment with several components or configurations does not imply that all or any of the components / configurations are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, none of the components / configurations are essential or required.

[0050] Although process steps, algorithms, and the like may be described or claimed in a particular order, such processes can be configured to be performed in various orders. That is, any order of steps that may be explicitly described or claimed does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of the processes described herein can be performed in any order that is practicable. Furthermore, certain steps can be performed simultaneously even though they are described or implied as not being performed simultaneously (e.g., because one step is described after the other). Furthermore, illustration by depiction of processes in the accompanying drawings does not imply that the illustrated process is exclusive of other variations and modifications thereto, does not imply that the illustrated process or any of its steps are required for the invention, and does not imply that the illustrated process is preferred.

[0051] Although a process may be described as including multiple steps, this does not imply that all or any of the steps are preferred, essential, or required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the invention(s) described herein include other processes that omit some or all of the steps described herein. Unless otherwise specified, no step is essential or required.

[0052] Although a process may be described singly or without reference to other products or methods, in an embodiment the process may interact with other products or methods. For example, such interactions may include linking one business model with another business model. Such interactions may be provided to increase the flexibility or desirability of the process.

[0053] Although a product may be described as including multiple components, aspects, qualities, properties, and / or configurations, this does not indicate that any or all of the multiple components are preferred, essential, or required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the invention(s) described herein include other products that omit some or all of the multiple components described herein.

[0054] An enumerated list of items (which may be numbered or unnumbered) does not imply that any or all of the aforementioned items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, an enumerated list of items (which may be numbered or unnumbered) does not imply that any or all of the aforementioned items are inclusive of any entire category, unless expressly stated otherwise. For example, an enumerated list of "computers, laptops, PDAs" does not imply that any or all of the three items in the list are mutually exclusive, nor does it imply that any or all of the three items in the list cover any entire category.

[0055] An enumerated list of items (which may or may not be numbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are equivalent to each other or readily substituted for one another.

[0056] All examples are illustrative and do not imply that the invention or any embodiment has been made or performed.

[0057] V. Calculation The various processes described herein may be implemented, for example, by appropriately programmed general purpose computers, special purpose processors, and computing devices. Typically, a processor (e.g., one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more digital signal processors) receives instructions (e.g., from a memory or similar device) and executes those instructions, thereby performing one or more processes specified by those instructions. The instructions may, for example, be embodied in one or more computer programs, one or more scripts, and the like.

[0058] "processor" means one or more microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), computing devices, microcontrollers, digital signal processors or similar devices, or any combination thereof, regardless of architecture (e.g., chip-level multiprocessing / multicore, RISC, CISC, microprocessors without interlocked pipeline stages, pipelining, simultaneous multithreading).

[0059] Thus, a description of a process is also a description of an apparatus for performing said process. An apparatus for performing a process may include, for example, a processor and input and output devices suitable for performing said process.

[0060] Additionally, the programs (and other types of data) implementing the methods described above may be stored and transmitted in a number of ways using various media (e.g., computer-readable media). In certain embodiments, hard-wired circuitry or custom hardware may be used in place of or in combination with some or all of the software instructions capable of implementing the processes of various embodiments. Thus, various combinations of hardware and software may be used in place of software alone.

[0061] The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium, a combination of the aforementioned media, or separate media that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions, data structures) that can be read by a computer, a processor, or a similar device. The aforementioned media may take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, and other permanent memory. Volatile media include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes the primary memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire, and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a system bus coupled to the processor. Transmission media may include or convey acoustic waves, light waves, and electromagnetic emissions, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible diskette, a hard disk, magnetic tape or any other magnetic medium, CD-ROMs, DVDs, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with a pattern of holes, RAM, PROMs and EPROMs, Flash EEPROMs, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0062] Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying data (e.g., sequences of instructions) to a processor. For example, data may be (i) provided to the processor from a RAM, (ii) carried over a wireless transmission medium, (iii) formatted and / or transmitted in accordance with a number of formats, standards and protocols, such as Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth, TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA and 3G, and / or (iv) encrypted to ensure privacy or to prevent fraud in any of a variety of ways known in the art.

[0063] Thus, a description of a process is also a description of a computer-readable medium that stores a program for performing said process. The computer-readable medium can store (in any suitable format) program components appropriate for performing the method.

[0064] Just as the description of various steps in a process does not indicate that all of the steps described are required, apparatus embodiments include computers / computing devices operable to perform some, but not necessarily all, of the described processes.

[0065] Similarly, the illustration of various steps in a process does not indicate that all of the illustrated steps are required, just as examples of computer-readable media storing programs or data structures include computer-readable media storing programs that, when executed, can cause a processor to perform some, but not necessarily all, of the illustrated processes.

[0066] Where a database is described, those skilled in the art will understand that (i) alternative database structures to those described may be readily used, and (ii) other memory structures other than a database may be readily used. Any illustration or description of any sample database herein is an illustrative arrangement of stored representations of information. For example, any number of other arrangements other than those suggested by the tables illustrated in the accompanying drawings or elsewhere may be used. Similarly, any illustrated entries of a database represent exemplary information only. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number and contents of the entries may vary from those described herein. Furthermore, even though a database is depicted as a table, other formats (including relational databases, object-based models and / or distributed databases) may be used to store and manipulate the data types described herein. Similarly, object methods or behaviors of a database may be used to implement various processes such as those described herein. Furthermore, a database may be stored locally or remotely to a device that accesses data in said database, in a known manner.

[0067] Various embodiments can be configured to operate in a network environment that includes a computer in communication (e.g., via a communications network) with one or more devices. The computer can communicate directly or indirectly with the devices via any wired or wireless medium (e.g., the Internet, a LAN, a WAN or Ethernet, Token Ring, telephone lines, cable lines, radio channels, optical lines, commercial online service providers, bulletin board systems, satellite links, or any combination of the above). Each of the devices can itself include a computer or other computing device (such as those based on Intel® Pentium® or Centrino™ processors) adapted to communicate with the computer. Any number and type of devices can communicate with the computer.

[0068] In embodiments, a server computer or centralized authority may not be necessary or desirable. For example, the present invention may be practiced on one or more devices without a central authority in embodiments. In such embodiments, any function described herein as being performed by a server computer, or data described as being stored on a server computer, may instead be performed by or stored on one or more of such devices.

[0069] The processes described in the embodiments can operate without any user intervention, while in other embodiments the processes include some human intervention (e.g., steps are performed by or with the assistance of a human).

[0070] VI. Continuing Applications The present disclosure provides an enabling description of several embodiments and / or inventions to one of ordinary skill in the art. Such embodiments and / or portions of the invention may not be recited in the claims of this application, but may be recited in the claims of one or more continuing applications claiming benefit of priority to the present invention.

[0071] Applicants intend to file further applications to pursue patents to subject matter disclosed and enabling, but not claimed, in this application.

[0072] VII.35 U.S.C. § 112(6) In a claim, any claim limitation containing the phrase "means for" or the phrase "steps of" means that 35 USC §112(6) applies to that limitation.

[0073] In a claim, a claim limitation that does not contain the phrase "means for" or the phrase "step for" means that 35 U.S.C. §112(6) does not apply to that limitation, whether or not the limitation recites a function without a recitation of structure, material, or acts for performing that function. For example, the mere use in a claim of the phrase "step of" or the phrase "steps of" to refer to one or more steps in that claim or another claim does not mean that 35 U.S.C. §112(6) applies to those steps.

[0074] For a means or step for performing a specified function pursuant to 35 USC § 112(6), the corresponding structure, material, or acts described in the specification and equivalents thereto may perform additional and specified functions.

[0075] Computers, processors, computing devices, and similar products are structures capable of performing a wide range of functions. Such products are operable to perform specified functions by executing one or more programs (programs stored in the memory device of the product or in memory devices accessed by the product). Unless otherwise specified, such programs may not be based on any particular algorithm (such as any particular algorithm that may be disclosed in this application). It is well known to those skilled in the art that the specified functions can be realized through separate algorithms, and any number of separate algorithms is merely a design choice for performing a particular function.

[0076] Thus, in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112(6), with respect to means or steps for performing a specified function, structure corresponding to a specified function includes any product programmed to perform the specified function. Such structure includes a programmed product that performs the function, regardless of whether such product is programmed with (i) a disclosed algorithm that performs the function, (ii) an algorithm similar to the disclosed algorithm, or (iii) a separate algorithm to perform the function.

[0077] Where a method recites a means for performing a certain function, one structure for performing the method includes a computing device (e.g., a general-purpose computer) configured and / or programmed with appropriate hardware to perform the described function.

[0078] Additionally, a computing device (e.g., a general purpose computer) configured with appropriate hardware and / or programmed to perform the functions described above through other algorithms, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, is also included.

[0079] VII. Disclaimer Numerous references to a particular embodiment are not intended to indicate a disclaimer or disclaimer of additional separate embodiments, and similarly, references to descriptions of embodiments all including a particular feature are not intended to indicate a disclaimer or disclaimer of embodiments that do not include that particular feature. Any express disclaimer or disclaimer in this application shall be preceded by the phrase "does not include" or "cannot perform."

[0080] IX. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE Unless any ordinary meaning could be ascertained by one of ordinary skill in the art without incorporation by reference, the patents, patent applications and other documents referenced herein are for purposes of the description requirement under 35 U.S.C. § 112(1) and the enablement requirement under 35 U.S.C. § 112(1) only. No term in this application shall be used to limit, define, or otherwise interpret in any manner.

[0081] Any incorporation by reference does not imply any approval, endorsement, or acquiescence in any statements, opinions, arguments, or characterizations contained in the incorporated patents, patent applications or other documents, unless otherwise expressly stated in this patent application.

[0082] X. Application Process In interpreting this application (including the claims), regardless of whether there are other patent applications that are considered related to this application and whether there are other patent applications that share a common priority claim with this application, a person of ordinary skill in the art would refer to the prosecution history of this application, but not to the prosecution history of any other patents or patent applications.

[0083] XI. Cards Playing cards have been around for many years. Although there are many types of playing cards that are played in many different types of games, the most common type of playing cards contains 52 cards, divided into four separate hands (i.e., spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs) that are printed or indicated on one side or face of each card. In a standard deck, each of the four card hands is numbered from 2 to 10, or has the letter A (Ace), K (King), Q (Queen), or J (Jack) that is also printed or indicated on the face of each card. Each card thus includes on its face a representation of the hand along with a number or letter representation. The kings, queens, and jacks usually also include a certain type of design on the face of the card and may also be referred to as picture cards. Although other types of playing cards are described herein, the various topics may apply to any type of playing cards, some types of playing cards, and / or all types of playing cards.

[0084] In some cases, a standard playing deck of 52 cards further includes a few additional cards, sometimes designated as jokers, that may have specific uses or meanings depending on the particular game being played with the deck. For example, if a card game includes jokers, a player may use a joker as any card in the deck if he receives one in his "hand." If a player has the 10 of spades, the Jack, the Queen, and the King along with the joker, he uses the joker as the Ace of spades. The player then has a Royal Flush (10 to Ace of spades).

[0085] Many different games can be played using a standard deck of playing cards. Games played with a standard deck of cards may include other items such as a game board, chips, etc., or the game may require only the deck of playing cards itself to be played. In the majority of games played with a standard deck of cards, a value is assigned to each card. The value may vary for different games.

[0086] Typically, card values ​​begin with the number 2 card as the lowest value and increase as the numbers increase up to 10, followed by the Jack, Queen, King, and Ace. In some games, the Ace may have a lower value than 2, and in games where a particular card is determined to be a wild card or have any value, that card may have the greatest value of all. For example, in card games where the number 2 is a wild card, a player holding a playing card that includes a 2 may use that 2 card as any other card, such that a 9 and a 2 are equivalent to two 9s.

[0087] Additionally, the four separate hands shown on the card may have specific values ​​depending on the game: in a game where the rules of the game mean one hand (i.e., spades) is worth more than another hand (i.e., hearts), the seven of spades may be worth more than the seven of hearts.

[0088] It is easy to envision that many different games can be played using different card quantities and hand values. In a particular game, it is the combination of cards that one player gets that determines whether he or she beats the other players. Usually, the more difficult the combination is to obtain, the more value it has, and the player who obtains the more difficult combination (taking into account the value of the cards) wins the game.

[0089] For example, in a game of poker, each player may ultimately receive five cards. A player who gets three cards with similar numbers on their faces (i.e., the four of hearts, the four of diamonds, and the four of clubs) beats a player who has only two cards with the same numerical value (i.e., the king of spades and the king of hearts). However, a player who has five cards, all of which include clubs, commonly known as a flush, beats a player who has the same three of the above cards.

[0090] Often, a standard deck of playing cards is used to create gaming machines, in which a player inserts coins and plays a particular card game using an imitation of the standard playing cards on a video screen, attempting to get back a larger amount than originally inserted into the machine.

[0091] Another form of gambling that involves playing cards involves tables (also known as table games). Tables use a table and a dealer, with players sitting or standing around the table. Players place their bets on the table, and the dealer deals cards to each player. The number of cards dealt, or whether the cards are dealt face up or face down, depends on the particular table game being played.

[0092] Additionally, imitation or depictions of standard playing cards are used in many handheld electronic games, such as poker and blackjack, and in many computer and Internet games. Using a handheld electronic game or computer terminal, which may or may not be connected to the Internet, a player receives imitation playing cards and plays the card game against a computer or against other players. Additionally, many of the aforementioned games can be played on a computer in combination with gambling.

[0093] Additionally, there are many televised game shows that use a deck of playing cards in the game play where the cards are usually enlarged or shown on a video screen or monitor for easy viewing. In such television game shows, participants usually play card games against each other for prizes or cash, with an individual acting as a host who oversees the action.

[0094] Additionally, there are lotteries that players purchase and play by "scratching off" an opaque layer to see if they have won a prize or award. The opaque layer prevents the player from knowing the outcome of the lottery before purchasing and scratching off said layer. In some of the aforementioned lotteries, playing cards are used under an opaque layer and the player may need to match several similar cards to win a prize or award.

[0095] XII. Casino Countermeasures Some of the ways to thwart card counters include using multiple decks. A shoe containing six or eight decks is common. The more cards there are, the less variation there is in the proportion of cards remaining, and the more difficult they are to count. It is also possible to reduce the player's advantage by shuffling the cards more frequently, but this reduces the amount of time that can be devoted to actual play, and therefore reduces the casino's profits. Some casinos use shuffling machines in this case, some of which shuffle one deck of cards while another is playing while others continue to shuffle the cards. The distracting environment of the gaming floor, and the free alcoholic beverages, also act to thwart card counters. Some ways to thwart card counters include various payoff structures, such as a 6 to 5 blackjack payoff, which is more unfavorable to the player than the standard 3 to 2 blackjack payoff.

[0096] XIII. Video Wagering Games Video wagering games are designed to mimic table games using adaptations of the table game rules and cards.

[0097] In one version of video poker, a player is allowed to inspect five cards that are randomly selected by the computer. These cards are displayed on a video screen, and the player selects which cards, if any, he wishes to keep. If the player wishes to keep all of the cards (i.e., stand), he presses the STAND button. If the player wishes to keep only some of the cards, he selects the cards to be held by pressing the HOLD keys located directly below each card displayed on the video screen. After selecting the HOLD cards, pressing the DEAL button automatically and simultaneously replaces the unselected cards with further cards randomly selected from the remainder of the deck. After the STAND button is pressed or the cards are replaced, the final holding is evaluated by the gaming machine's computer, and the player is awarded a coin payout or playing credits as determined from a payoff table. This payoff table is stored in the machine's computer memory and is also displayed on the machine's screen. Hands with higher poker value are awarded more credits or coins. Very rare poker hands have payoffs of 800 to 1 or more.

[0098] XIV. Apparatus for playing via a communication system Fig. 1 shows an apparatus for playing a game. A game playing system including a management apparatus 42, a player register 43, and a game apparatus 45 includes a plurality of player apparatuses 40-1 to 40-n connected via a communication system 41 such as the Internet. Each apparatus 40 is typically a personal computer equipped with a display device and control means (keyboard and mouse).

[0099] When a player logs onto the game playing system, his device 40 identifies itself to an administrative device. The system holds player details in a register 43 which includes separate player register devices 44-1 to 44-n for every potential player (i.e. every member of the system).

[0100] Once a player has been identified, the player is assigned to a gaming device 45. The gaming device includes a set of player data devices 46-1 to 46-6, a dealer device 47, a control device 48, and a random dealing device 49.

[0101] Up to seven players may be assigned to a gaming device 45. If there are more than seven members of the system logged on at the same time, several games may be played simultaneously. The assignment of player devices 40 to player data devices 46 may be arbitrary or random, depending on which player data devices 46 and gaming devices 45 are free. Each player data device 46 is loaded from a corresponding player register device 44 and further contains substantially the same details as the corresponding player device 40, and communicates with the player device 40 to keep the content of the player device and the player data device updated with each other. Furthermore, appropriate portions of the content of the other player data devices 46 and the dealer device 47 are transferred to the player device 40 for display.

[0102] The logic unit 48 of the gaming device 45 initiates dealer operations and waits for appropriate responses from the player devices 40, causing the gaming devices to carry out various stages of play. A random dealing unit 49 issues cards to the dealer device 47 and the player data unit 46 in a substantially random manner. At the end of the hand, the logic unit communicates the outcome of the hand (i.e., wins and / or losses) to the player data unit 46 to inform the player of such outcome. The management unit 42 receives such outcome and updates the player register unit 44 as appropriate.

[0103] The player device 40 is configured to display a display. The player's location is highlighted to identify the player. As play progresses, the player selects various boxes and places bets in them, and the results of the aforementioned actions are displayed. As cards are dealt, a series of overlapping card symbols are shown in the bonus box. At the player's option, cards may be shown in a line below the boxes, as well as cards dealt to the dealer. At the end of the hand, the player is notified with a message informing the player of the results of their bets (i.e., the amount won or lost).

[0104] XV. ALTERNATIVE TECHNOLOGIES The manner in which various embodiments may be made, used, or practiced is only a subset of the possible manners that may be used for the same or similar purposes. The specific manners described are not to be construed as limiting. Rather, various embodiments contemplate alternative manners for making, using, or practicing the various embodiments.

[0105] XVI. References For all purposes, The following patents and patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference: U.S. Patent No. 6,579,181; U.S. Patent No. 6,299,536; U.S. Patent No. 6,093,103; U.S. Patent No. 5,941,769; U.S. Patent No. 7,114,718; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10 / 622,321; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 4,515,367; U.S. Patent No. 5,000,453; U.S. Patent No. 7,137,630; and U.S. Patent No. 7,137,629. EXAMPLES

[0106] XVII. Illustrative Examples Some gambling systems allow users to bet on the outcome of a game (e.g., which team will win and / or by how much). Gaming operators attempt to determine accurate probabilities for each outcome of a game (e.g., win, loss, point spread) so that they can offer competitive odds to potential bettors who may bet on each outcome. Probabilities (and odds) are usually determined before the start of the game based on information that exists before the game, such as historical data about each team, player, and coaching staff, the evaluations and opinions of experts such as sportswriters and other coaches, and other public and proprietary information about the game. For example, some gaming operators use complex proprietary computer algorithms to determine odds based on existing statistics and other information. Odds may fluctuate during the betting period as bettors bet on one side of an outcome or the other (e.g., if many bet on team A to win and few bet on team B to win, the odds may become less favorable for bettors on team A to win).

[0107] As a result, odds are the gaming operator's "price" to a bettor to bet on a particular outcome (higher odds mean a lower price to the bettor). When there are multiple gaming operators offering odds on a particular outcome to multiple bettors, gaming operators compete with each other to offer competitive prices that attract bettors seeking the highest payout for their dollar wagered. Thus, gaming operators may base their odds at least in part on the odds offered by competing gaming operators. Betting behavior may also affect odds. For example, high demand for a bet on the Chicago Cubs to win their next game against the Phillies may inflate the effective price of that bet. Thus, as with other competitive markets, the determination of odds often reflects the "market price" for each outcome of the game as gaming operators adjust their odds based on the market. The effective market price may fluctuate over time as the betting market changes and new pertinent information (such as an injury to the Cubs' starting pitcher the day before a game) is disclosed. In particular, amounts wagered by losers on one side of a bet may be used to factor into the payout to winners on the other side of the bet. Thus, in large betting markets where there are many bettors on each side of a bet, gaming operators may adjust their odds in an attempt to balance the potential payouts on either side of the bet.

[0108] However, the determination of odds often does not reflect a consensus “market price” (e.g., there is a limited number of market participants or there is insufficient time for the market to conform new relevant information to a stable market price). For example, some gaming operators allow users to bet on in-game performance parameters (such as whether a particular player will strike out in a particular at-bat in a baseball game). The betting market is usually opened manually just before an in-game event, and the odds are often determined manually “on the fly”. If another gaming operator offers a similar bet, the quick timing of such bets may prevent gaming operators and bettors from comparing the various odds offered. In such cases, gaming operators may attempt to offer odds without the benefit of a competitive betting market based on the operator's best assessment of the probability of various outcomes overall.

[0109] Identifying potential in-game betting markets (e.g., markets for betting on the outcome of a particular at-bat), determining accurate probabilities and odds for each outcome, offering odds to bettors, receiving wagers, determining the outcome, and then paying winners can take time and effort. Because some systems require many of the above actions to be performed manually "on the fly," limited effort can effectively limit the number and range of in-game betting opportunities that a gaming operator can offer. Bets on in-game events often require the calculation of probabilities and odds over a very short period of time. It can be more difficult to calculate accurate probabilities of in-game outcomes when new pertinent information becomes available during the game, such as an injury to a quarterback. Inaccurate odds can lead to unnecessarily high prices (and thus fewer bettors), or unnecessarily low prices (meaning unnecessarily high payouts to winners).

[0110] In various embodiments of the invention, the system may allow users to bet on in-game events, such as whether a particular baseball player will strike out in a particular at-bat, and / or on more traditional game outcomes, such as which team will win and / or by how much. The system may automatically receive general game information (e.g., team names, player list, starting time, etc.) from a data feed or other source. From the same data source (or another source), the system may also automatically receive a stream of real-time game information, such as time elapsed, batting lineup, runs scored, errors, pitch information (strikes, balls, fouls), etc.

[0111] Odds for each event, such as striking out, may be calculated based on an algorithm and an odds database stored on the system. The algorithm may use information from real sports (such as a player's batting average) and may update based on in-game events (e.g., if Barry Bonds strikes out four times against the same pitcher, the odds for hitting against that pitcher may decrease).

[0112] Upon completion of a particular gambling event (e.g., Barry Bonds ends his at bat by striking out or hitting a home run), the system settles wagers placed on that betting event. At the same time (or at another time), the system may open bets on another event (e.g., the next at bat). In one embodiment, a human operator clears bets after each event. For example, a human gaming agent may select "strikeout" immediately after Barry Bonds strikes out. This action may cause the system to immediately settle all bets on Barry Bonds' current at bat and also open bets on the next betting event (e.g., the outcome of the next batter's at bat). In other embodiments, the system may use automated information (e.g., a data feed) to determine the outcome of an event (such as a strikeout) in real time. In some embodiments, a human gaming agent may assist with error correction to ensure that the system identifies the correct outcome and properly settles all bets.

[0113] Users may place bets and otherwise interact with the system and other users through an interface, such as a gaming table or mobile touch screen gaming device, which may be configured to display a live TV feed of an event, such as a baseball game, with an optional touch-sensitive betting interface overlay. In one embodiment, as Barry Bonds steps to the plate, a user may touch the image of Barry Bonds (or other image or icon) to trigger a betting interface overlay that allows the user to select and place a particular bet on Barry's turn at bat. To bet that Barry will hit a single, a user may touch the image of first base (or provide another appropriate input).

[0114] Various embodiments of the system may allow gambling on many different types of outcomes during a single game or other event (such as whether a particular runner will steal a particular base, the number of runs scored in an inning, whether a pitcher will throw the ball with a particular pitch or throw a strike, etc.). The system may open and close each betting event based on the start and end times of that particular event. The system may also be applied to other events such as various sports and elections (e.g., whether Barack Obama will win New Hampshire in the upcoming 2008 Presidential election). Various embodiments of the invention may manage many different betting markets at the same time or at overlapping times. Each betting market may be opened, closed, and resolved according to the terms of that particular betting market, independent of other betting markets.

[0115] Various embodiments may include any type of wager, such as, for example, in-game wagers on sports or other events, wagers on the outcome of a game or other event, etc. Various embodiments may include any system and / or method for determining initial and / or future odds for any wager, such as, for example, a transaction-based system, a sports book algorithm and / or wager lines set by employees, etc. Various embodiments may include any system and / or method for placing and / or managing wagers, such as, for example, a centralized computer system, a decentralized computer system, one or more servers, one or more client computers, an in-person system, a ticket system, a mobile system, etc. Types of wagers, systems and methods for determining odds, and systems and methods for placing and managing wagers are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 258,297 by Storm, entitled Wager Market Creation and Management, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0116] Some embodiments may include wagering at a sports book or other venue for placing wagers on one or more competitions. Some exemplary competitions on which wagers may be placed at a sports book may include auto racing, baseball, basketball, American football, golf, hockey, and horse racing. Each type of competition may have a separate set of odds associated with it.

[0117] For example, in auto racing, a sportsbook may have a list of several individual drivers and / or field (all other) options. Each of the field and / or individual drivers may be associated with specific odds for each type of bet. For example, Jeff Gordon may be listed at 4 to 1, Jeff Burton at 15 to 1, and Casey Atwood at 100 to 1. If you bet $10 on Burton (15 to 1) and Burton wins the race, you will win $150 and get your $10 bet back, for a total payoff of $160. Match-up wagers may also be available, where two or more drivers are paired against each other in a head-to-head wager. Odds for the aforementioned wagers may also be offered. For example, a match-up may pit Dale Jarrett (minus 145) against Bobby Labonte (plus 125). If you bet $145 on the favorite Jarrett, your payoff is $100 plus the $145 you get back, for a total of $245. If you bet $100 on the underdog Lavonte, your payoff is $125 plus the $100 you get back, for a total of $225. Various other wagers may also be available, such as over / under on the number of cautions in the race, the car manufacturer to win the race, in-game wagers, etc.

[0118] For example, in baseball, a sportsbook may list each team matchup with odds associated with each team in the matchup. If the team on which a wager is placed wins the matchup, the payout to the winner may vary depending on the odds. In some embodiments, baseball odds are shown using a money line.

[0119] For money lines, the odds may be based on a particular dollar value (e.g., $1). For money lines, a "minus" preceding the number indicates that the team is favored. A "plus" preceding the number indicates that the team is an underdog. For example, if the Braves odds are -120, this means that a $12 wager will win $10 and return $22. In another example, if the Dodgers odds are +110, this means that a $10 wager will win $11 and return $21. There are various money lines, such as dime lines and 20 cent lines, and the various money lines mentioned above may be used in various embodiments. In the embodiments mentioned above, the price of the underdog in the matchup may not be listed, but the house line may be used for the underdog. Various embodiments may include various other wagers (e.g., over / under on the total runs, run lines, parlays where the bettor may select multiple teams to win, in-game wagers, etc.).

[0120] The money line may change as a bet progresses. In some embodiments, the odds determined by the money line at the time of the wager may be the odds used to make the payout for the wager at the end of the wager. In some embodiments, the money line after the end of the betting period may be used to determine the odds for the wager even if the money line was different at the time the wager was placed.

[0121] In basketball, for example, the sports book may be operated similarly to baseball. In some embodiments, a point spread may be used such that bets on a team to win are only awarded if the team wins by the point spread. In some embodiments, the odds may be the same for all of the wagers, but the point spread may vary. For example, the point spread may increase as more bettors bet on a team to win, similar to the fluctuations in odds discussed above for baseball. Some embodiments may allow for "teasing" of the point spread (i.e., changing the point spread) in exchange for changes to the odds. Various other embodiments may be included in some embodiments, such as parlays, over / under on total points, in-game wagers, etc.

[0122] For example, in boxing, a sportsbook may run money lines similar to the baseball money lines described above. For example, in hockey and American football, a sportsbook may run money lines similar to the basketball money lines described above.

[0123] For example, in golf, a sportsbook may operate a wagering method and / or system similar to that described above for auto racing. For example, a sportsbook may list several individual golfers and the field. Each option may be associated with odds for each type of bet (e.g., for winning a tournament). For example, Tiger Woods may be listed at 2 to 1, Tom Lehman may be listed at 25 to 1, and Bob May may be listed at 100 to 1. If you bet $10 on Lehman at 25 to 1 and he wins the tournament, your payoff would be $250 plus your $10 bet back for a total of $260. A sportsbook may also include match-up propositions between two or more golfers. In some embodiments, a golfer may be matched up with two or more golfers in the aforementioned propositions. Various other wagers may be included in some embodiments, such as an over / under on the winning score, an over / under on the lowest score by any golfer, an over / under on a golfer's finishing position, in-game wagers, etc.

[0124] For example, in horse racing, a sportsbook may offer a wide range of betting options, such as win, place, show, across the board, exacta, quinella, trifecta, superfecta, daily double, pick six, and any in-game wagering options may be available. Each wagering option may be associated with a money line or other type of odds system, such as those described above.

[0125] As mentioned above, some embodiments may include various events or propositions upon which to wager, such as the outcome of an election, the winning of a prize, etc. Some embodiments may include wagers on the outcome of a season of a television program (e.g., Survivor), the outcome of a season of a game, etc. Some embodiments may include wagers on other casino games (e.g., craps, blackjack, slots, poker). The foregoing bets may include bets on individual games, bets on other people, bets on statistics of a game, bets on tournaments of the foregoing games, etc. Examples of various wager types and odds types are presented only as non-limiting examples, and various embodiments may include any desired wager types and / or odds types.

[0126] In some embodiments, multiple sports books may offer the same or similar wagering propositions (e.g., that the Bears will win a particular American football game). For example, in Las Vegas and many other jurisdictions where gambling is legal, many casinos operate their own sports books. At each of these sports books, bettors may bet on the same or similar propositions.

[0127] Some sportsbooks may compete for customers in a market by adjusting the odds on a proposition. Some sportsbooks may have different odds than other sportsbooks because more fans of one team visit the sportsbook and place similar wagers than fans of another team, thereby changing the odds on their wagers. Some embodiments may enable one or more sportsbooks to communicate regarding odds. For example, such communication may enable the sportsbooks to establish consensus odds for a desired market. Such embodiments may enable one or more sportsbooks to trade responsibility for one or more wagers. For example, such functionality may enable the sportsbooks to adjust the number of wagers on a side of a proposition to reach a desired balance.

[0128] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of multiple sports books 201 interacting through a central system 203. The central system 203 may include one or more computing devices configured to execute one or more sets of instructions to perform one or more methods. The interaction through the central system may enable one or more of the sports books to establish consensus odds for wagers offered at one or more of the sports books. The interaction through the central system may enable one or more of the sports books to adjust risk exposure for one or more sides of one or more wagers. Although the example of FIG. 2 includes a central system, it should be appreciated that some embodiments may not include such a system and / or such a system may have other functionality. For example, some embodiments may include a decentralized system (e.g., a peer-to-peer system), some embodiments may include sports books performing the operations of a central system, some embodiments may include a central system controlling the sports books, and / or any other arrangement may be used as desired in various embodiments.

[0129] As shown in FIG. 2, each sports book 203 may include one or more wagering interfaces 205. A wagering interface may allow a bettor to place wagers on one or more propositions. Each proposition may have associated odds (e.g., a money line). A wagering interface may include a kiosk, a computer terminal, a mobile gaming device, a home computer, a teller, a gaming table, etc. In each wagering interface 205, a bettor may, for example, place a wager, view odds for the wager, and collect winnings from the wager.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 2, each sports book may include one or more controllers 207. The controllers 207 may include a wagering server configured to perform any desired operation related to monitoring, settling, regulating, recording, verifying, etc., with respect to wagers. The controllers 207 may be configured to establish odds, determine which propositions to bet on, and establish desired levels of risk tolerance for wagers. The controllers may receive inputs (e.g., via a communications network and / or interface) from odds makers, a casino operator, one or more wagering interfaces 205, etc.

[0131] Sports book 201 may include a physical location in a casino where bets on sports propositions may be placed. It should be appreciated that a sports book may not be limited to a physical location. Some embodiments may include virtual sports books, such as sports books accessible from mobile devices, online sports books, etc. In the illustrated example of FIG. 2, the sports book at the top of the figure may be on one continent and the sports book at the bottom of the page may be on another continent. Some embodiments may include any number of sports books having any configuration in any location.

[0132] The sports books 201 may communicate with each other and / or with the central system 203 using a communications network 209. Such communications may be controlled by respective controllers 207. In a centralized embodiment, such as FIG. 2, such communications may be between the central system 201. In a decentralized embodiment, such communications may be between the various sports books 201.

[0133] The central system 203 may receive and / or transmit information to the sports books 201. The central system 203 may receive information about odds for various wagers at each of the sports books 201. The central system 203 may determine consensus odds for such wagers based on the received odds. The central system 203 may transmit an indication of the consensus odds to one or more of the sports books 201.

[0134] In some embodiments, the central system 203 may determine a market in which one or more sports books will compete. Such markets may be physical markets and / or demographic markets. For example, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, a market may be a continent, such that a lower sports book may form one market and an upper sports book may form a second market. A market may be a demographic market that may span continents, such that a high roller sports book on one continent may form a market with a high roller sports book on another continent. In some embodiments, the consensus odds may reflect a desired market in which the sports books may compete.

[0135] The sports book 201 may request such information from the central system 203. The central system 203 may provide such information solely as a service in connection with a feed of gaming information. The sports book 201 may be operated by the same owner, who may operate the central system 203. A sports book that receives such consensus odds information may adjust the odds offered for a wager based on the consensus odds for the wager (e.g., to match the consensus odds). In some embodiments, a sports book may request and / or receive information about the odds offered at one or more sports books and determine how to adjust the odds for a wager at the sports book based on such odds. Some sports books may request that such individualized wager information may not be propagated, but may only propagate information in a consensus format.

[0136] In some embodiments, the sports book 201 may determine that the level of risk associated with the wager is too great at the odds level (e.g., at the consensus odds received). The sports book may facilitate the exchange of obligations for one or more sides of the wager. The central system 203 may act as an exchange where a sports book may buy an obligation for a first side of the wager and / or sell an obligation for a second side of the wager to one or more other sports books. Such an exchange may operate similarly to a financial instruments exchange. Such an exchange may allow a first sports book to place a bid and / or offer for an obligation for one side of the wager. Such an exchange may allow a second sports book to hit or lift the bid or offer and enter into a transaction where the obligation for one side of the wager is transferred through the exchange. The exchange may perform one or more clearing functions for such transactions locally and / or remotely. An example of a wagering exchange-like system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,233,922 by Asher, entitled System and method for wagering-based transferable financial instruments, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0137] FIG. 3 illustrates an example method 300 that may be performed in some embodiments to determine consensus odds. Such a method may be performed by the central system 203, by the sports book 201, and / or by any desired element. Such consensus odds may be used by one or more sports books to determine wager odds such that the odds of the sports book are not inferior to odds offered by other sports books. Such consensus odds may be used by a sports book to determine wager odds such that the sports book does not have to determine wager odds in other ways (e.g., by hiring an oddsmaker). Such consensus may be used to aid in the establishment of fast-paced wagers and / or low liquidity odds, such as the in-game wagers described above, by increasing the pool of wagers for which odds may be determined. Information about odds from one sports book may be used at another sports book to adjust the odds at the other sports book, if necessary, to be competitive with the first sports book. Method 300 may begin at block 301.

[0138] As indicated by block 303, some embodiments may include identifying a first wagering venue at which the wager may be placed. Such wagering venue may include a sports book. The identification may be performed at a central system, by the wagering venue, or by a computer. In some embodiments, the identification may be performed in response to a request from the wagering venue. In some embodiments, the identification may be performed in response to a determination that the odds for the wager are different from the consensus odds. In some embodiments, the identification may include identifying all wagering venues at which the wager may be placed. Although a single wager is depicted in some examples, it should be appreciated that some embodiments may include multiple wagers that may be similar and / or identical. For example, a wager on a basketball team having a first spread may be considered the same wager as a wager on a basketball team having a different spread. Even if there is a variation in one wager with any other wager, both wagers may be considered the same wager, as desired for operation of some embodiments. In some embodiments, wagers may have the same or similar underlying propositions (e.g., the field wins, the Bears win) and / or may have the same or different associated criteria (e.g., different spreads, different members of the field, different levels of over / under bets, etc.). By allowing for such deviations in wagers, a broader sampling of odds for similar wagers may be obtained. In some embodiments, wagers may be required to be the same or nearly the same before being considered the same wager for purposes of determining consensus odds. Wages may include in-game wagers, wagers on competitions, wagers on casino games, etc.

[0139] Some embodiments may identify a wager that may be placed at a first wagering venue. Identifying the wager may include receiving information about the wager (e.g., from a computer system associated with the wagering venue, a camera recording the wagering at the first venue, etc.).

[0140] As shown at block 305, some embodiments may receive a respective plurality of indications, each of which may show respective odds for a wager at a respective one of a plurality of second wagering venues. The second wagering venues may include one or more other sports books. In some embodiments, odds from the first wagering venue may also be received. In some embodiments, such indications may identify to the central system or other elements performing the method what the odds of the wager and / or similar wagers are at the second wagering venue, if desired. In some embodiments, the indications may be relative indications relative to the base odds, identifying whether the odds are higher or lower relative to the base odds. In some embodiments, the indications may include indications of spreads, underdogs, in-game propositions, and other elements of a bet in addition to or in lieu of the odds. As odds change continuously, as a live feed, and as needed at each venue, such indications may be received in response to a query by the central system.

[0141] As shown in block 307, some embodiments may include determining a set of second wagering venues that define a market in which the first wagering venue will compete. In some embodiments, the market may include a geographic market, such as venues in a particular city or block. In some embodiments, the market may include a demographic market, such as venues that cater to a particular clientele. The market may include any desired set of parameters having any specificity. In some embodiments, the second wagering venues may all be in the market. In one example, some wagering venues that cater to high rollers may form a market with the first wagering venues that also cater to high rollers. The wagering venues may be located geographically distant from one another. For example, in some embodiments, one of the second wagering venues in the same market as the first wagering venue may be on another continent. In another example, some wagering venues on the Las Vegas Strip may form a market with the first wagering venue also on the Las Vegas Strip.

[0142] As indicated at block 309, some embodiments may include determining consensus odds for the wager based on the respective odds for the wager at each second wagering venue in the second set of wagering venues. Determining a consensus may include performing any mathematical calculation on the received data. The data, in some embodiments, may include data regarding odds offered at the first wagering venue. In some embodiments, the data may not include information regarding odds offered at the first wagering venue. In some embodiments, determining a consensus may include determining a mean, average, median, mode, highest value, lowest value, and / or applying any desired mathematical formula. Such determining may be performed periodically, upon receipt of updated odds from the second one or more venues, or on demand.

[0143] Some embodiments may include determining the impact on the market for each second wagering venue. The determining may include, for example, receiving an indication of the impact from the first wagering venue, receiving a ranking of the venue in the market from the first wagering venue, calculating a similarity based on customer demographics, distance. The determining may be based on information provided by one or more wagering venues and / or information collected in other ways.

[0144] In some embodiments, determining a consensus may include determining a consensus based on the influences. For example, the influences may be used as weights in a formula for determining a consensus such that venues with a greater influence on the market are weighted more heavily than venues with a lesser influence on the market. Some embodiments may include determining consensus odds such that each respective odds for a wager at each respective second wagering venue in the set has an influence on the consensus odds proportional to the influence of each respective one of the second wagering venues on the market.

[0145] In some embodiments, consensus may also be sought regarding other elements of the wager, for example, consensus may be sought regarding the spread, consensus may be sought regarding the members of the field, consensus may be sought regarding the over / under bet levels, etc. In some embodiments, seeking a consensus may include weighting the wagers based on their similarity to the desired wager, such that wagers that are the same or very similar are weighted more heavily in the calculation than wagers that are less similar.

[0146] As indicated by block 311, some embodiments may include transmitting an indication of the consensus odds for the first wagering venue. The indication may be transmitted to the sportsbook from a central system or any desired computing device in some embodiments. The indication may be transmitted on demand, in response to the step of seeking a consensus, or periodically.

[0147] In some embodiments, method 300 includes offering a wager. Such an offer may be made from a first wagering venue, from any system that determines consensus odds, or via an online system. The wager may be offered based on the consensus odds and / or any other information, such as information regarding odds at individual venues. In some embodiments, the wager may be offered along with the consensus odds.

[0148] Although various examples are expressed in terms of consensus odds, it should be appreciated that some embodiments may include seeking any consensus regarding any element of any possible wager. A consensus may be transmitted in some embodiments, but alternatively and / or in addition, individual information about the odds or other elements of the wager at each venue may also be transmitted. Such embodiments may be used by the receiving venue for advertising and / or informational purposes. In some embodiments, receiving such information and / or preventing such information from being transmitted may be a premium service. Such information may be transmitted on demand, periodically, or in response to an action.

[0149] Such embodiments may include collecting any type of information about any number of wagering opportunities at any number of wagering venues. Such embodiments may include distributing any information about the collected information about wagers to any destination. Such information may include any transformation of the collected information and / or one or more of such information. Such distribution may be as a service to a wagering venue or individual. Such distribution may be via a website. Such distribution may be by destination for a fee.

[0150] Method 300 may end at block 313. It should be appreciated that method 300 is presented by way of example only, and that any alternative method involving more operations, fewer operations, different operations, differently ordered operations, etc. may be performed in some embodiments.

[0151] FIG. 4 illustrates an example method 400 that may be performed in some embodiments by a sports book to adjust a wager's obligation. Such a method may be performed by the central system 203, by the sports book 201, and / or by any desired element. Such adjustment of obligations may be used, for example, to keep risk at a desired level so that the sports book can offer competitive odds based on the consensus odds for a wager without risking losing a significant amount of money. Obligations on one side of a wager may be exchanged for money, obligations on the other side of a wager, etc. Obligations on a wager may be exchanged from one wagering venue to another wagering venue and / or between any desired source or destination. Method 400 may begin at block 401.

[0152] The liability of one side of a wager may include the right to take legal ownership of money or other valuables based on losses from one side of the wager. The liability of one side of a wager may include the obligation to make payments based on wins from one side of the wager.

[0153] As shown in block 403, some embodiments may include identifying desired odds for a two-party wagering proposition. A two-party wagering proposition may include the outcome of a competition, such as who will win a baseball game, an in-game wager, etc. Some embodiments may include a wager with any number of sides. Identifying the desired odds may include selecting odds, receiving an indication of odds, determining odds, etc. The odds may include odds based on odds offered by one or more wagering venues, such as the consensus odds described above. Such embodiments may include determining consensus odds, such as by method 300.

[0154] As shown at block 405, some embodiments may include determining amounts wagered on each side of a bilateral wagering proposition for which the first wagering venue is responsible. The determining may include receiving information from one or more wagering interfaces, one or more wagering venues, or the like. The determining may include totaling amounts to which the wagering venue may be responsible if the wagering outcome occurs. The determining may include totaling amounts to which the wagering venue may be responsible if the wagering outcome occurs.

[0155] As shown in block 407, some embodiments may include determining a level of risk exposure to a first wagering venue for a first side of a bilateral wagering proposition based on an amount wagered by the first side. Such a level of risk exposure may take any form. In one example, such a level of risk exposure may include an amount that the wagering venue may be obligated to pay. In some embodiments, such determining may not include operations in addition to those of block 405. Some embodiments may include reading from a database after performing block 405. Some embodiments may include performing one or more calculations on the outcome of block 405. Some embodiments may include determining a first amount that the first wagering venue may be obligated to pay if the first side of the wager wins based on the amount wagered by the first side.

[0156] As shown in block 409, some embodiments may include determining an offsetting level of risk exposure for a first wagering venue for a first side of a bilateral wagering proposition based on an amount wagered by the second side. Such a level of risk exposure may take any form. In one example, such a level of risk exposure may include an amount that the wagering venue may obtain. In some embodiments, such a determining step may have no operations in addition to those of block 405. Some embodiments may include reading from a database after performing block 405. Some embodiments may include performing one or more calculations on the outcome of block 405. Some embodiments may include determining a second amount that the first wagering venue may obtain if the second side of the wager wins based on the amount wagered by the first side.

[0157] As shown in block 411, determining that an offsetting level of risk exposure and a total level of risk exposure for the first wagering venue based on the level of risk exposure may include determining that the total level of risk exposure is too high at the desired odds. Determining the total level of risk exposure may include performing one or more mathematical calculations on the level of risk exposure and the offsetting level of risk exposure. In some embodiments, such calculations may include subtracting the offsetting risk exposure from the risk exposure. In some embodiments, determining that the level is too high at the desired odds may include determining that the level is above a particular threshold. In some embodiments, the threshold may be based on expected future wagers at the desired odds. In some embodiments, the threshold may be based on other wagers placed at the wagering venue. For example, in some embodiments, a wagering venue may determine that if a particular side of a wager has a total risk of more than $1 million, then continuing to offer that side of the wager at that odds may pose too much risk to the wagering venue. Any method of determining that the level of risk is too great at particular odds for a wager may be used in various embodiments. Some embodiments may include determining a total amount that a first wagering venue is at risk based on the first amount and the second amount. Some embodiments may determine that the total amount is too large at the desired odds.

[0158] As shown in block 413, some embodiments may include facilitating a transaction with a second wagering venue to adjust the amount wagered on at least one of the first and second sides to which the first wagering venue has an obligation. In some embodiments, such facilitating may occur in response to a determination that the total level of risk exposure is too great. In some embodiments, such facilitating may include a transaction obligation for one or more wagers on an exchange. Such obligation may be exchanged with one or more other wagering venues and / or any other desired entity. For example, in some embodiments, a buy or sell order may be placed on an exchange for an obligation on one side of a wager. The exchange may perform any function that matches buyers and sellers and effects an exchange of obligations. Such a transaction may enable the wagering venue to readjust its risk level so that it can offer wagers at desired odds.

[0159] In some embodiments, the facilitating step may include placing at least one of an order to sell a wager obligation to a first party on the wagering exchange and an order to buy a wager obligation to a second party on the wagering exchange. It should be appreciated that any method of performing the aforementioned transactions may be used with any system or method of exchange. In some embodiments, blocks of wagers may be traded. In some embodiments, blocks of wagers may be traded. In some embodiments, portions of wagers may be traded. In some embodiments, an auction of wagers may be held. In some embodiments, bids, offers, hits, and takes similar to a stock exchange may be used. In some embodiments, a dark pool trading system may be used. Order expiration times, execution or cancellation, stop losses, and / or any other desired orders may be used.

[0160] In some embodiments, a first wagering venue may pay to or be paid by another wagering venue to be responsible for the wagers. The amount to be paid may be determined by a bid process, a reverse auction, a transaction-based system, or the like. In some embodiments, when a first wagering venue makes such an offer through an exchange, a portion of the offer may be met by a second wagering venue or venues. For example, a second ten wagering venues may each agree to be responsible for ten percent of the wagers. In some embodiments, if an exchange determines that multiple wagering venues are interested in an offer for a change in wagering responsibility, the exchange may use a first-in, first-out method of determining matching requests, a pro rata method of satisfying matching requests, or the like. A matching engine may be used by the exchange to solicit match requests from the exchange.

[0161] Some embodiments may include offering wagers at desired odds. For example, a wagering venue performing method 400 may then offer wagers after reaching an acceptable level of risk in the odds.

[0162] Although the various examples are expressed in terms of desired odds, it should be appreciated that some embodiments may include soliciting any request regarding any element of any possible wager. It should be appreciated that while some embodiments may use consensus, some embodiments may use individual information from one or more wagering venues.

[0163] Method 400 may end at block 415. It should be appreciated that method 400 is presented by way of example only, and that any alternative method involving more operations, fewer operations, different operations, differently ordered operations, etc. may be performed in some embodiments.

[0164] While some embodiments are depicted in terms of a sports book, various embodiments may include any desired wagering venue, such as, for example, a remote computer terminal, a mobile gaming device, a casino table, any area of ​​a casino, etc. Although various exemplary systems having particular elements are shown and described, it should be appreciated that various embodiments may use any system with any elements having any functionality. Although various examples of methods having exemplary steps are described, it should be appreciated that various embodiments may include any method having any steps in any order.

[0165] XVIII. Further Examples A. An apparatus comprising: A processor; A machine-readable medium having a set of instructions stored thereon; the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to: identifying wagers that may be placed at a first wagering venue; receiving a respective plurality of indications, each respective indication indicating respective odds for said wager at a respective second wagering venue of a plurality of second wagering venues; determining, for each of said second wagering venues, a respective impact on the market in which said first wagering venue competes; carrying out a method comprising: determining consensus odds based on respective odds for the wagers at each of the second wagering venues such that each of the respective odds has an influence on the consensus odds proportional to a respective influence of each of the second wagering venues among the second wagering venues on the market; transmitting an indication of the consensus odds to the first wagering venue.

[0166] B. An apparatus comprising: A processor; A machine-readable medium having a set of instructions stored thereon; the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to: identifying a first wagering venue at which a wager may be placed; receiving a respective plurality of indications, each respective indication indicating respective odds for said wager at a respective second wagering venue of a plurality of second wagering venues; determining a set of second wagering venues that define a market in which the first wagering venues compete; determining consensus odds for the wager based on the respective odds for the wager at each of the second wagering venues in the second set of wagering venues; transmitting an indication of said consensus odds to said first wagering venue; A device that performs the above function.

[0167] B.1. The apparatus of B, wherein each wagering venue includes a sports book.

[0168] B.2. The apparatus of B, wherein said wagers include in-game wagers.

[0169] B.3. The apparatus of B, wherein said wagers include wagers on a competition.

[0170] B.4. The device of B, wherein said market comprises a geographic market.

[0171] B.5. The device of B, wherein said market comprises a demographic market.

[0172] B.6. The apparatus of B, wherein the second set of wagering venues includes at least one wagering venue located on a different continent than the first wagering venue.

[0173] B.7. The apparatus of B, wherein the method further comprises receiving an indication of odds for the wager at the first wagering venue, the consensus odds being further based on the odds for the wager at the first wagering venue.

[0174] B.8. The apparatus of B, wherein the consensus odds include at least one of median odds, average odds, mode odds, lowest odds, highest odds, and odds based on a mathematical formula.

[0175] B.9. The apparatus of B, wherein said method further comprises offering said wager from said first wagering venue along with said consensus odds.

[0176] B.10. The apparatus of claim B, wherein the method further comprises: determining, for each of said second set of wagering venues, their respective impacts on said market; determining the consensus odds such that each of the respective odds for the wager at each of the second wagering venues in the set has an influence on the consensus odds proportional to the influence of each of the second wagering venues among the second wagering venues on the market; The apparatus further comprises:

[0177] C. An apparatus comprising: A processor; A machine-readable medium having a set of instructions stored thereon; the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to: determining amounts to be wagered on each side of a bilateral wagering proposition for which the first wagering venue is responsible; determining a first amount that the first wagering venue would be liable to pay if the first side of the wager wins based on an amount wagered by the first side; determining a second amount that the first wagering venue may win if a second side of the wager wins based on the amount wagered by the first side; determining a total amount at risk for said first wagering venue based on said first amount and said second amount; identifying consensus odds for the wager based on the impact of each of the second wagering venues on the market in which the first wagering venues compete and the odds for the wager at a plurality of second wagering venues; determining that the total amount is too large at the consensus odds; in response to determining that the total amount is too large, placing at least one of an order to purchase an obligation for wagers on the second side of a wagering exchange and an order to sell an obligation for wagers on the first side of the wagering exchange; A device that performs the above function.

[0178] D. An apparatus comprising: A processor; A machine-readable medium having a set of instructions stored thereon; the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to: identifying desired odds for a wagering proposition between two parties; determining the amounts to be wagered on each side of a wagering proposition between said two parties for which the first wagering venue is responsible; determining a level of risk exposure to the first wagering venue for a first side of the bilateral wagering proposition based on the amount wagered on the first side; determining an offsetting level of risk exposure to the first wagering venue for the first side of the bilateral wagering proposition based on the amount wagered on the second side; determining a total level of risk exposure for said first wagering level based on said offset level of risk exposure and said level of risk exposure; responsive to determining that the aggregate level of risk exposure is too great, facilitating a transaction with a second wagering venue to adjust amounts wagered on at least one of the first and second parties for which the first wagering venue is responsible; A device that performs the above function.

[0179] D.1. The apparatus of D, wherein each wagering venue includes a sports book.

[0180] D.2. The device of D, wherein said wagers include in-game wagers.

[0181] D.3. The apparatus of D, wherein said wagers include wagers on a competition.

[0182] D.3.1. The apparatus of D.3, wherein the first side of the wager includes a wager on a first sports team winning a particular game and the second side of the wager includes a wager on a second sports team winning a particular game.

[0183] D.4. The apparatus of D, wherein the level of risk exposure comprises an amount the first wagering venue would be liable to pay if the first side of the wager wins, the level of offsetting risk exposure comprises an amount the first wagering venue would have if the second side of the wager wins, and the total level of risk exposure comprises the result of subtracting the offsetting level of risk exposure from the level of risk exposure.

[0184] D.5. The apparatus described in D, wherein the total level of risk exposure is too great if it exceeds a certain threshold dollar amount. D.6. The apparatus of claim D, wherein identifying the desired odds comprises determining consensus odds based on odds for the wager at a plurality of third wagering venues.

[0185] D.6.1. The apparatus of D.6, wherein the method comprises: receiving a plurality of respective indicia, each respective indicia indicating respective odds for said wager at a respective third wagering venue among said plurality of third wagering venues; determining, for each of the third wagering venues, its respective impact on the market in which the first wagering venue competes; The apparatus, wherein determining the consensus odds includes determining consensus odds such that each of the odds for a wager at each of the third wagering venues has an influence on the consensus odds proportional to the influence of each of the third wagering venues on the market.

[0186] D.7. The apparatus of claim D, wherein facilitating the transaction includes placing at least one of an order to sell an obligation for a wager on the first side and an order to buy an obligation for a wager on the second side on a wager exchange.

[0187] D.8. The apparatus of claim D, wherein the method further comprises offering the wager from the first wagering venue along with the desired odds.

Claims

[Claim 1] An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: A network interface; A touch-sensitive screen and at least one processor; The at least one processor comprises: displaying images related to a live sporting event via said touch-sensitive screen; detecting a user's touch via the touch-sensitive screen to the image related to the live sporting event; receiving a bet associated with the image related to the live sporting event, the bet being further associated with a first wagering venue; receiving, via the network interface, a plurality of real-time feeds from a plurality of second wagering venues, each real-time feed indicating respective odds for the bets associated with the image related to the live sporting event; determining consensus odds for the bet based on the real-time feed; and transmitting the indication of consensus odds to a first wagering venue; if the at least one processor determines that a risk due to an outcome of a bet caused by the consensus odds is large for the first wagering venue, exchanging a liability due to an outcome of the bet of the first wagering venue for a liability due to an opposite outcome of the bet of a wagering venue of one of the plurality of second wagering venues; Device.

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