Game with interim betting

Abstract

To provide a device for making a game easy.SOLUTION: In a device for making a game easy, a processor receives at least one signal from a card deck reader of a game, presents an electronic indication of the at least one card to a user, receives an indication of a house edge, receives a betting indication in the game, enters information on a first electronic ticket into an electronic database, adds at least one first card indication, determines odds for maintaining the house edge, sends the determined odds indication, receives a second betting indication, enters information on a second electronic ticket into the electronic database, adds at least one second card indication distributed in the game, determines the outcome of the second bet, updates the first electronic ticket to reflect the outcome, determines a second outcome of the second bet, updates the second electronic ticket, and adds the outcome and each indication of the second outcome.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 015,942, filed January 17, 2008, entitled "Game With Interim Betting," which is incorporated herein by reference. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0002] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of components of a hand reading system according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a game playing device according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Sections I through X below provide a guide for interpreting this application.

[0004] I. Terminology The term "product" means any machine, manufacture, and / or composition of matter unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0005] The term "process" means any process, algorithm, methodology, etc., unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0006] Each process (whether referred to as a method, algorithm, or otherwise) inherently comprises one or more steps, and thus any reference to one or more "steps" of a process has inherent antecedent in the mere reference to the term "process" or similar term. Accordingly, any reference within a claim to one or more "steps" of a process has sufficient antecedent.

[0007] The term "invention" and similar terms mean "one or more inventions" disclosed in this application, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0008] The terms "one embodiment," "embodiment," "embodiments," "the present embodiment," "the present embodiments," "one or more embodiments," "some embodiments," "particular embodiments," "one embodiment," "another embodiment," and similar terms mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments of the disclosed invention(s)," unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0009] The term "variant" of an invention means an embodiment of the invention, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0010] A reference to "another embodiment" within the description of an embodiment does not imply that the referenced embodiment is mutually exclusive with the other embodiment (e.g., an embodiment described before the referenced embodiment) unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0011] The terms "including" and "comprises" and variations thereof mean "including, but not limited to," unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0012] Nouns without a specified number mean "one or more" unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0013] The term "plurality" means two or more, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0014] The term "herein" means "in the present application," including anything that may be incorporated by reference, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0015] The phrase "at least one of," when such phrase modifies a plurality of things (e.g., an enumerated list of things), means any combination of one or more of those things, unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the phrase "at least one of parts, cars, and wheels" means any of: (i) parts, (ii) cars, (iii) wheels, (iv) parts and cars, (v) parts and wheels, (vi) cars and wheels, or (vii) parts, cars, and wheels. The phrase "at least one of," when such phrase modifies a plurality of things, does not mean "one of each" of the plurality of things.

[0016] When the numbers "1," "2," etc. are used as cardinal numbers to indicate the quantity of something (e.g., 1 part, 2 parts), they mean the quantity indicated by the number, but not at least the quantity indicated by the number. For example, the phrase "1 part" does not mean "at least 1 part," and thus the phrase "1 part" does not encompass, for example, 2 parts.

[0017] The phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase "based on" describes both "based only on" and "based at least on." The phrase "based at least on" is equivalent to "based at least in part on."

[0018] The term "represents" and similar terms are not exclusive unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the term "represents" does not mean "represents only" unless expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase "the data represents a credit card number" describes both "the data represents only a credit card number" and "the data represents a credit card number, and the data also represents something else."

[0019] The term "whereby" is used herein only to precede a clause or other set of words that express only the intended result, purpose, or consequence of something expressly set forth above. Thus, when the term "whereby" is used in a claim, the clause or other words that it modifies do not establish any specific further limitations on the claim or limit the scope or meaning of the claim.

[0020] The term "for example" and similar terms mean "for example," and thus do not limit the term or phrase it describes. For example, in the sentence "a computer sends data (e.g., instructions, data structures) over the Internet," the term "for example" explains that "instructions" are an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet, and also explains that a "data structure" is an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet. However, both "instructions" and "data structures" are merely examples of "data," and things other than "instructions" and "data structures" can also be "data."

[0021] The term "respectively" and similar terms mean "individually." Thus, when two or more things "respectively" have a feature, each such thing has its own characteristic, and these characteristics may, but need not, differ from one another. For example, the phrase "two machines each have a respective function" means that the first such machine has the function and the second such machine likewise has the function. The feature of the first machine may or may not be the same as the function of the second machine.

[0022] The term "namely" and similar terms mean "that is," and thus limit the term or phrase it describes. For example, in the sentence "a computer sends data (i.e., instructions) over the Internet," the term "namely" explains that the "instructions" are the "data" that a computer sends over the Internet.

[0023] Any given numerical range includes integers and fractions within that range. For example, the range "1 to 10" is interpreted as specifically including integers between 1 and 10 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, ..., 9) and non-integers (e.g., 1.1, 1.2, ..., 1.9).

[0024] Where two or more terms or phrases are synonymous (e.g., by an explicit statement that the terms or phrases are synonymous), the instance of one such term / phrase does not mean that an instance of another such term / phrase must have a different meaning. For example, if a sentence conveys that the meaning of "including" is synonymous with "including but not limited to," the mere use of the phrase "including but not limited to" does not mean that the term "including" means anything other than "including but not limited to."

[0025] An "indication" of something can include something from which at least a portion of that thing and / or a variation of that thing can be derived. In some embodiments, for example, an indication of information can include an electronic message that a receiver and / or sender of the message can interpret to become at least a portion of the information and / or at least a portion of a variation of the information. As another example, an indication of the final outcome of a game can include a report of the winners of the game, a report of the losers of the game, the final cards that make up the final state of the game, a report of the winnings of the game, and / or any other information.

[0026] A bet includes anything that describes a bet a player can place. For example, a bet can include a proposition to draw a particular card. A bet can describe payout amounts for various bets placed on that proposition and / or any other information that may be relevant to a player deciding whether to place a bet on the proposition.

[0027] Betting on something can involve wagering money or other items of value on whether or not something will occur.

[0028] II. Decide The term "determining" and its grammatical variants (e.g., determining a price, determining a value, determining objects that meet certain criteria) are used very broadly. The term "determining" encompasses a wide range of actions, such that "determining" can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, examining, referencing (e.g., referencing a table, database, or another data structure), identifying, and the like. "Determining" can also include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), and the like. "Determining" can also include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like.

[0029] The term "determining" does not imply certainty or absolute accuracy; thus, "determining" can include estimating, inferring, predicting, guessing, and the like.

[0030] The term "determining" does not imply that a mathematical operation must be performed, that a numerical method must be used, and that an algorithm or process must be used.

[0031] The term "determining" does not imply that any particular device must be used, for example, determining does not necessarily have to be performed by a computer.

[0032] III. Sentence Form If a limitation in a first claim includes one of the features as well as more than one of the features (e.g., a limitation such as "at least one part" includes one part as well as more than one part), and in a second claim that depends from the first claim, the second claim uses the definite article "the" to refer to that limitation, this does not imply that the first claim includes only one of the features, nor does it imply that the second claim includes only one of the features (e.g., "the part" can include both one part and more than one part).

[0033] When an ordinal number (such as "first," "second," or "third") is used as an adjective before a term, the ordinal number (unless expressly stated otherwise) is used simply to indicate a particular feature, such as to distinguish that feature from another feature described by the same or similar term. For example, a "first part" may be so named simply to distinguish it from, for example, a "second part." Thus, the use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "part" does not indicate any other relationship between the two parts, nor does it indicate any other characteristics of either or both parts. For example, the use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "part" does not (1) indicate that the order or location of either part comes before or after any other part, (2) indicate that either part occurs or acts chronologically before or after any other part, and (3) indicate that either part is ranked higher or lower in importance or quality than any other part. Additionally, the mere use of ordinal numbers does not define a numerical limit on the feature identified using the ordinal number. For example, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "component" does not indicate that there must be no more than two components.

[0034] Where a single device, article, or other product is described herein, two or more devices / articles (whether or not operating in cooperation) may alternatively be used in place of the single device / article described. Thus, a function described as being performed by a device may alternatively be performed by two or more devices / articles (whether or not operating in cooperation).

[0035] Similarly, where two or more devices, articles, or other products are described herein (whether in conjunction with one another or not), a single device / article may alternatively be used in place of two or more of the described devices or articles. For example, a single computer-based device may replace multiple computer-based devices. Thus, various functions described as being performed by two or more devices or articles may alternatively be performed by a single device / article.

[0036] The functionality and / or features of a single device described may alternatively be implemented in one or more other devices that are described but are not explicitly described as having such functionality / features. Thus, other embodiments need not include the described device itself, but rather may include one or more other devices that have such functionality / features in those other embodiments.

[0037] IV. Disclosed Examples and Terminology are Non-Limiting Neither the Title (which appears at the top of the first page of the application) nor the Abstract (which appears at the end of the application) should be construed in any way as limiting the scope of the disclosed invention(s). The Abstract is included in this application solely because 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b) requires abstracts of 150 words or less.

[0038] The title of this application and the section headings provided herein are for convenience only and should not be construed as limiting the disclosure in any way.

[0039] Many embodiments are described herein and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not, and are not intended to be, limiting in any way. The invention(s) disclosed herein are broadly applicable to many embodiments, as will be readily apparent from this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations, including structural, logical, software, and electrical modifications, may be made to implement the disclosed invention(s). While particular features of the disclosed invention(s) may be described with reference to one or more specific embodiments and / or drawings, it will be understood that such features are not limited to use in the particular embodiment(s) or drawings described with reference thereto, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0040] No method step or product element embodiment described in this application constitutes, is essential to, or is not coextensive with the invention claimed herein, unless expressly so described herein or in the claims.

[0041] All terms in any claim have the broadest meaning that would be given to that term by one of ordinary skill in the art after the priority date. Terms used in any claim are not specifically defined or limited by this application unless expressly stated as such in the specification or claims.

[0042] The preambles of the following claims recite only objects, advantages, and possible uses of the claimed invention and do not limit the claimed invention.

[0043] This disclosure is not a literal description of every embodiment of one or more inventions, nor is it a listing of one or more features of the invention that must be present in every embodiment.

[0044] Devices described as communicating with each other need not be in continuous communication with each other unless expressly specified otherwise. Conversely, such devices need only transmit to each other as necessary or desired, and may not actually exchange 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 extended periods of time (e.g., weeks at a time). In addition, devices that communicate with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.

[0045] A description of an embodiment having several components or features does not imply that all or any of such components / features are required. Conversely, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide range of possible embodiments of one or more of the present inventions. Unless expressly specified otherwise, a component / feature is not essential or required.

[0046] Although process steps, algorithms, and the like may be described or claimed in a particular sequential order, such processes can be configured to work in different orders. In other words, any order or sequence of steps that may be explicitly described or claimed does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. Steps of processes described herein can be performed in any order possible. Furthermore, some steps may be performed simultaneously even though they are not described or implied as occurring simultaneously (e.g., because one step is described after another step). Furthermore, the illustration of a process by illustration in a drawing does not imply that the illustrated process is exclusive of other variations and modifications, does not imply that the illustrated process or any of its steps are required for one or more of the present inventions, and does not illustrate that the illustrated process is preferred.

[0047] 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 described invention(s) include other processes that omit some or all of the described steps. Unless expressly specified otherwise, no step is essential or required.

[0048] Although a process may be described in isolation, i.e., without reference to other products or methods, in one embodiment the process may interact with other products or methods. For example, such interaction may include linking one business model to another. Such interaction may be provided to increase the flexibility or desirability of the process.

[0049] Although a product may be described as including multiple components, aspects, quantities, properties, and / or characteristics, this does not indicate that some or all of those multiples are preferred, essential, or required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention(s) include other products that omit some or all of the multiples described.

[0050] An enumerated list of items (some numbered and some unnumbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, an enumerated list of items (some numbered and some unnumbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are inclusive of any category, unless expressly stated otherwise. For example, the enumerated list "computer, laptop, PDA" 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 are inclusive of any category.

[0051] An enumerated list of items (some numbered and some unnumbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are equivalent to or readily substituted for one another.

[0052] All embodiments are illustrative and do not imply that the invention or any embodiment has been made or performed, as the case may be.

[0053] V. Computing Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the various processes described herein may be implemented, for example, by appropriately programmed general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, 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 defined by the instructions. The instructions may be embodied, for example, in one or more computer programs, one or more scripts, etc.

[0054] "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 with no interlocked pipeline stages, pipelined, simultaneous multithreading).

[0055] Thus, a description of a process is also a description of an apparatus for performing the process. An apparatus for performing a process may include, for example, a processor and input / output devices suitable for performing the process.

[0056] Furthermore, programs (as well as other types of data) implementing such methods may be stored and transmitted in several ways using various media (e.g., computer-readable media). In some embodiments, hardwired circuitry or custom hardware may be used in place of, or in combination with, some or all of the software instructions that can implement the processes of various embodiments. Thus, various combinations of hardware and software may be used in place of software alone.

[0057] The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium, combination of the same media, or different media, that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions, data structures) that can be read by a computer, a processor, or a similar device. Such 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 disks, magnetic disks, and other permanent memory. Volatile media include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes main memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire, and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a system bus coupled to a processor. Transmission media can 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 disk, a hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, a DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with a pattern of holes, RAM, PROM, EPROM, Flash EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described below, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0058] Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in carrying data (e.g., sequences of instructions) to the processor. For example, data may (i) be sent to the processor from RAM, (ii) be carried over a wireless transmission medium, (iii) be formatted and / or transmitted in accordance with a number of formats, standards, or protocols, such as Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth, and TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA, and 3B, and / or (iv) be encrypted in any of a variety of ways known in the art to ensure privacy and prevent fraud.

[0059] Thus, a description of a process is also a description of a computer-readable medium that stores a program for performing the process. The computer-readable medium can store (in any suitable format) program elements that are suitable for performing a method.

[0060] Just as the description of various steps of a process does not indicate that all described steps are required, apparatus embodiments include computers / computing devices operable to perform some (but not necessarily all) of the described processes.

[0061] Similarly, just as the description of various steps in a process does not indicate that all described steps are required, embodiments of a computer-readable medium storing a program or data structure include a computer-readable medium storing a program that, when executed, can cause a processor to perform some (but not necessarily all) of the described processes.

[0062] Where a database is described, those skilled in the art will understand that (i) alternative database structures to the described structure can be readily utilized, and (ii) other memory structures besides a database can also be readily utilized. Any illustrations or descriptions of any sample databases presented herein are exemplary configurations of stored information representation. For example, any number of other configurations other than those suggested by tables shown in the drawings or elsewhere may be utilized. Similarly, those skilled in the art will understand that any illustrated entries in a database represent only exemplary information, and that the number and content of entries may differ from those described herein. Furthermore, despite any description of a database 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, methods or behaviors of objects in a database may be used to implement various operations as described herein. Additionally, databases may be stored in known manners, either locally or remotely to or from devices that access data in such databases.

[0063] Various embodiments can be configured to operate in a network environment including a computer in communication with one or more devices (e.g., via a communications network). The computer can communicate with the devices directly or indirectly via wired or wireless media (e.g., the Internet, a LAN, a WAN, or Ethernet, token ring, telephone lines, cable lines, radio channels, optical communications lines, commercial online service providers, bulletin board systems, satellite communications links, or any combination of the above). Each device can itself comprise a computer or other computing device, such as one based on an Intel® Pentium® or Centrino™ processor, configured to communicate with the computer. Any number and type of devices may communicate with the computer.

[0064] In some embodiments, a server computer and one or more client computers may perform desired actions. Actions may be performed by one or more of the clients and / or servers according to a desired distribution of labor. Such distribution of labor may be based on where the actions can be performed more safely, more quickly, and / or more cost-effectively. For example, in some embodiments, complex calculations may be performed on a central server to increase speed, while displays related to the calculations may be simple and therefore performed on clients, and results determining the calculations may be performed on the central server to ensure the validity of the calculations and allow adjustments to odds to be made in a central location. It should be appreciated that any desired actions may be distributed among a server and any number of clients in any manner desired.

[0065] In one embodiment, a server computer or central authority may not be necessary or desirable. For example, the present invention may, in one embodiment, be practiced on one or more devices without a central authority. In such an embodiment, any functionality described herein as being performed by a server computer or data described as being stored on a server computer may be performed on or stored on such one or more devices instead of the server computer.

[0066] Where a process is described, in one embodiment the process may operate without any user intervention, while in another embodiment the process includes some human intervention (e.g., the steps are performed by or with the assistance of a human).

[0067] VI. Continuing Applications This disclosure provides one of ordinary skill in the art with an enabling description of several embodiments and / or inventions, some of which may not be claimed in this application, but may nevertheless be claimed in one or more continuing applications claiming benefit of priority to this application.

[0068] The applicant intends to file additional applications to claim patents for subject matter disclosed and enabled but not claimed in this application.

[0069] VII. 35 U.S.C. § 112(6) In a claim, a claim limitation containing the phrase "means for" or "step for" means that 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6 applies to that limitation.

[0070] In the claims, a claim limitation that does not include the phrase "means for" or "step for" means that 35 U.S.C. §112, paragraph 6 does not apply to that limitation, regardless of whether the limitation recites a function without reciting structure, materials, or acts for performing that function. For example, the mere use in a claim of the phrase "step of" or "steps of" when referring to one or more steps in that claim or another claim does not mean that 35 U.S.C. §112, paragraph 6 applies to that step or steps.

[0071] With respect to means or steps for performing a specified function pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, the corresponding structure, material, or acts described herein and their equivalents may perform additional functions as well as the specified functions.

[0072] Computers, processes, computing devices, and similar products are structures capable of performing a wide range of functions. Such products can be operable to perform specified functions by executing one or more programs, such as programs stored in a memory device of the device or a memory device accessed by the product. Unless expressly specified otherwise, such programs need not be based on any particular algorithm, such as any particular algorithm that may be disclosed in this application. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a specified function may be performed via different algorithms, and which of multiple different algorithms is used to perform a specified function is merely a matter of design choice.

[0073] Thus, with respect to means or steps for performing a specified function pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §112, paragraph 6, structure corresponding to the specified function includes any product that is programmed to perform the specified function. Such structure includes pre-programmed products that perform the function, whether programmed with (i) the disclosed algorithm for performing the function, (ii) an algorithm similar to the disclosed algorithm, or (iii) a different algorithm for performing the function.

[0074] Where a method refers to means for performing a function, one structure for performing the method includes a computing device (e.g., a general-purpose computer) programmed and / or configured with appropriate hardware to perform the function.

[0075] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this also includes a computing device (eg, a general-purpose computer) that is programmed and / or configured with appropriate hardware to perform its functions via other algorithms.

[0076] VIII. Waiver Many references to particular embodiments do not imply a disclaimer or denial of additional, different embodiments, and similarly, references to descriptions of embodiments that all include particular features do not imply a disclaimer or denial of embodiments that do not include the particular features. Any explicit disclaimer or denial in this application should be preceded by the phrase "does not include" or the phrase "cannot be implemented."

[0077] IX. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE Any patents, patent applications, or other documents referenced herein are incorporated by reference into this patent application as part of this disclosure, but only for the purposes of written description under 35 U.S.C. §112, paragraph 1 and enablement under 35 U.S.C. §112, paragraph 1, and should in no way be used to limit, define, or interpret any terms herein, which this application would fail to provide an ascertainable meaning without such incorporation by reference, but rather allows for the provision of an ascertainable meaning for such terms. Thus, those skilled in the art need in no way be limited by any embodiments provided by reference.

[0078] Any incorporation by reference does not, in itself, imply any endorsement, approval, or acquiescence of any statements, opinions, arguments, or features contained in any patent, patent application, or other document incorporated, unless expressly stated otherwise in this patent application.

[0079] X. Review Process In interpreting this application (including the claims), one of ordinary skill in the art should refer to the prosecution history of this application, and not to the prosecution history of any other patent or patent application, regardless of whether there are other patent applications that may be considered related to this application and whether there are other patent applications that share a claim of priority with this application.

[0080] XI. Cards Playing cards have been around for many years. While there are many different types of playing cards played in many different types of games, the most common type of playing cards consists of 52 cards divided into four different suits (i.e., spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs) that are printed or displayed on one side or face of each card. A standard deck consists of 13 cards, each of the four suits bearing a number between 2 and 10 or the letter A (Ace), K (King), Q (Queen), or J (Jack), also printed or displayed on the face of each card. Thus, each card includes a suit designation on its face along with a number or letter designation. The kings, queens, and jacks usually also include some type of design on the face of the card and are sometimes called face cards.

[0081] In some cases, a standard 52-card deck of playing cards also includes several additional cards, sometimes called jokers, which may have some use or meaning depending on the particular game being played with the deck. For example, if a card game includes a joker and a player receives a joker in their "hand," the player can use the joker as any card in the deck. If a player has the 10 of spades, the jack, the queen, and the king along with the joker, they would use the joker as the ace of spades. The player would then have a royal flush (the 10 through the ace of spades).

[0082] Many different games can be played using a standard deck of cards. Games played with a standard deck of cards may include other items such as a game board, chips, etc., or may require only the deck of cards. In most games played with a standard deck of cards, each card is assigned a value. The value may vary from game to game.

[0083] Typically, card values ​​begin with the number 2 card as the lowest value and increase as the number increases to 10, followed by jack, queen, king, and ace in order of increasing value. In some games, an ace may have a value lower than 2, and in games where a particular card is identified as a wild card or of any value, that card may have the highest value of all cards. For example, in a card game where the number 2 is a wild card, a player holding a deck containing a 2 can use the 2 as any other card, such that a 9 and a 2 are equivalent to two 9s.

[0084] Additionally, the four different suits that appear on the cards may have specific values ​​depending on the game: under game rules where one suit, namely spades, has a higher value than another suit, namely hearts, the seven of spades may have a higher value than the seven of hearts.

[0085] It is easy to imagine that many different games can be played using different numbers of cards and different suits of value. In a particular game, it is the combination of cards that a player gets that determines whether or not that player beats one or more other players. Typically, the more difficult a combination is to get, the more value that combination has, and the player who gets the more difficult combination (taking into account the value of the cards) wins the game.

[0086] For example, in a poker game, 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, will beat a player who only has 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 contain clubs, commonly known as a flush, will beat a player who has the same three cards of the above types.

[0087] A standard deck of playing cards is often used to create gaming machines in which a player inserts coins and uses an imitation of the standard playing cards on a video screen to play a particular card game, such as poker, in an attempt to win more money than was originally inserted into the machine.

[0088] Another form of gambling using playing cards utilizes tables, otherwise known as table games. Tables utilize 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 and whether the cards are dealt face-up or face-down depend on the particular table game being played.

[0089] Furthermore, imitation or representations of standard playing cards are used in many handheld electronic games, such as poker and blackjack, many computer games, and Internet games. Using handheld electronic game or computer terminals, which may or may not be connected to the Internet, players receive imitation playing cards and play card games either with a computer or with other players. Furthermore, many of these games can be played on a computer in combination with gambling.

[0090] There are also many televised game shows that use a deck of cards for game play, with the cards usually enlarged or displayed on a video screen or monitor for easier viewing. In these televised game shows, participants play card games, usually against each other, for prizes or cash, with an individual acting as a host who oversees the action.

[0091] Some lotteries are played by a player purchasing a ticket and "scratching off" an opaque layer to see if they have won a prize or cash prize. The opaque layer prevents the player from knowing the outcome of the lottery before purchasing and scratching off the layer. Some of these lotteries use playing cards underneath the opaque layer, and players must match numbers on similar cards to win a prize or cash prize.

[0092] XII. Card Game Rules Poker Rules In a basic game of poker, played with a standard 52-card deck, each player is dealt five cards. All five cards in each player's hand are evaluated as a single hand, with various combinations of cards present, such as pairs, three of a kind, and straights. The determination of which combinations beat other combinations is made by consulting a table containing a ranking of the combinations. The rankings in most tables are based on the odds of each combination occurring in a player's hand. Regardless of the number of cards in a player's hand and the odds, the method for evaluating all five cards in a player's hand remains the same.

[0093] Poker is a popular card game based on skill in which players bet into a central pot with their cards fully or partially concealed. The pot is awarded to the player or players with the best combination of cards or to players who place an uncalled bet. Poker can also be related to video poker, a single-player game found in casinos that closely resembles a slot machine, or other games that use poker hand rankings.

[0094] Poker is played in many variations, but most follow the same basic game pattern.

[0095] The right to deal each hand is usually rotated among the players and indicated by a token called a "dealer" button or back. In casinos, a house dealer deals the cards for each hand, but a button (usually a white plastic disk) rotates clockwise among the players to indicate the nominal dealer and determine the betting order.

[0096] For each hand, one or more players are asked to place a forced bet, which becomes the initial stake at which the players will compete. The dealer shuffles and cuts the cards, and the appropriate number of cards are dealt to the players, one at a time. Cards may be dealt face-up or face-down, depending on the poker variation being played. After the initial deal, the first of possibly several betting rounds begins. Between rounds, the players' hands are developed in some way, often by dealing additional cards or replacing previously dealt cards.

[0097] At any time during a betting round, a player bets, requiring opponents to fold, call, or raise. If one player bets and the opponent chooses not to call, the hand ends immediately, the betting player is awarded the pot, and the next hand begins without having to show their cards. The ability to win the pot without showing one's hand makes bluffing possible. Bluffing is a key feature of poker that distinguishes it from other competitive games and from other games that utilize poker hand rankings.

[0098] If two or more players remain at the end of the final betting round, there is a showdown in which players reveal previously hidden cards and evaluate their hands. The player with the best hand in the poker variant being played wins the pot.

[0099] The most popular poker variants are: Draw Poker Each player receives five cards—as in Five-Card Draw—or six or more cards, all hidden, and then players replace one or more of these cards a certain number of times. Stud Poker Players receive cards one at a time, some of which are shown to other players at the table. The main difference between stud poker and "draw" poker is that players cannot discard or replace any cards. Community Card Poker Players combine their individual dealt cards with a number of "community cards" that are dealt face up and shared by all players. In the most popular variants, Texas hold'em and Omaha hold'em, two or four individual cards may be dealt, respectively.

[0100] Poker Hand Rankings Straight Flush A straight flush is a sequence of five cards all of the same suit.

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[0101] Four of a Kind A four of a kind or quad contains four cards of the same rank and one mismatched card.

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[0102] Full house A full house, also known as a boat or full boat, contains three matching cards of one rank and two matching cards of another rank.

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[0103] flash A flush contains five cards of the same suit that are not consecutive in rank.

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[0104] straight A straight is a set of five cards of varying suit rank.

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[0105] Three of a Kind Three of a kind, also known as trips, sets, or priles,

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[0106] Two Pair Contains two cards of the same rank, two cards of a different rank (matching each other but not matching the first pair), and one mismatched card;

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[0107] One Pair A pair contains two cards of the same rank and three mismatched cards.

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[0108] High Card A high card or no pair hand is one that has no two cards of the same rank, no five-card sequence, and no five cards of the same suit.

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[0109] Decks that use bugs The use of jokers as a glitch allows for minor variations in gameplay. When jokers are introduced into standard poker games, they can act as a fifth ace, or be used as a flush or straight card (although they can also be used as wild cards). Casino draw poker variants usually use jokers so that the best possible hand is

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[0110] Caribbean Stud Rules Caribbean Stud™ Poker can be played as follows: The player and the dealer are each dealt five cards. If the dealer has a poker hand with a value lower than an Ace-King combination or higher, the player automatically wins. If the dealer has a poker hand with a value higher than an Ace-King combination, the higher of the player's hand or the dealer's hand wins. If the player wins, they may receive an additional bonus payout depending on the poker rank of their hand. In commercial play of the game, a side bet is usually required to allow for a chance at a progressive jackpot. In Caribbean Stud™ Poker, it is the dealer's hand that must qualify. During play, the dealer's hand is partially hidden (usually only one card at most is shown to the player until the player has placed their bet), so players must always be aware that a ranked player hand can still lose to the dealer's hand; if no side bets are placed, bonuses are not paid and are usually only paid for hands ranking flush or higher.

[0111] Blackjack Rules Several versions of blackjack are now described. Blackjack hands are scored according to the total points of the cards in the hand. The hand with the highest total wins, as long as it is under 21. If the total exceeds 21, it is called a "bust." Number cards 2 through 10 have a point value equal to their displayed value, and face cards (i.e., jacks, queens, and kings) are worth 10 points. Aces are worth 11 points if the hand does not bust, but are worth 1 point if it does bust. Players play against the dealer and win by having a higher point total under 21. If the player busts, the player loses, even if the dealer also busts. If the player and dealer have hands with the same point value, this is called a "push," and neither side wins the hand.

[0112] After an initial bet is placed, the dealer deals cards from one or more, but usually two, hand-held decks of cards, or from a "shoe" containing multiple decks of cards, generally at least four decks of cards, usually more. Games in which one or more decks of cards are hand-held are known as "pitch" games. "Pitch" games are generally not played in casinos. When playing with two or more decks, the decks are shuffled together to make it more difficult to remember which cards have already been dealt and which have not yet been dealt. The dealer deals two cards to each player and to himself. Typically, one of the dealer's two cards is dealt face-up so that all players can see it, and the other is dealt face-down. The face-down card is called the "hole card." In European variants, the "hole card" is dealt after all players' cards have been dealt and their hands have been played. Players' cards are dealt face-up from the shoe and face-down in "pitch" games.

[0113] A two-card hand with a point value of 21 (i.e., an ace and a face card or a 10) is called a "blackjack" or "natural" and automatically wins. Traditionally, players with "naturals" are paid 3:2 on their bets, but in 2003 some casinos in Las Vegas began paying out typically 6:5 in games that use only a single deck.

[0114] After the first two cards are dealt to each player and the dealer, if the dealer has a "natural" and the player does not have a "natural," the dealer automatically wins. If the player has a "natural" and the dealer does not have a "natural," the player automatically wins. If both the dealer and the player have a "natural," neither side wins the hand.

[0115] If neither side has a "natural," each player plays their hand completely, and once all players have finished, the dealer plays his or her hand.

[0116] Playing a hand typically involves a combination of four possible actions: "hit," "stand," "double down," or "split" the hand. Often, one more action, called "surrender," is added. To "hit" is to draw one more card. To "stand" is to draw no more cards. To "double down" is to double the bet, draw exactly one more card, and then "stand." If a player has multiple cards of equal value, such as a pair of eights, the player can "split" by placing an additional bet and playing each card as the first card of two new hands. To "surrender" is to give up half of the player's bet and abandon the hand. In most casino games of blackjack, "surrender" is not an option. Once a player "stands," "busts," or "doubles down," the player's turn is over. If a player "busts," the player loses, even if the dealer subsequently busts. This is the house advantage.

[0117] After all players have played their hands, the dealer reveals his hole cards and plays his hand. According to house rules (relevant casino rules), the dealer must hit until the total point total is at least 17, regardless of the players' hands. In most casinos, the dealer must also hit on "soft" 17s (e.g., Aces and 6s). Casinos mark the felt on blackjack tables to indicate whether the dealer will hit or stand on a soft 17. If the dealer busts, all remaining players win. Bets are usually paid at odds of 1:1.

[0118] Four variations of the common rule are one-card split aces, early surrender, late surrender, and double-down restrictions. In the first variation, one card is dealt for each ace, ending the player's turn. In the second variation, the player has the option to surrender before the dealer checks for blackjack. In the third variation, the player has the option to surrender after the dealer checks for blackjack. In the fourth variation, doubling down is only allowed for certain card combinations.

[0119] Insurance Insurance is a commonly offered betting option that allows players to hedge their bets by betting that the dealer will win the hand. If the dealer's "face-up card" is an ace, players are offered the option to buy insurance before the dealer checks their "hole cards." If a player wishes to buy insurance, they can bet up to half of their original bet. Insurance bets are usually placed separately on a special part of the table marked with the words "Insurance Pays 2:1." A player who buys insurance bets that the dealer's "hole card" is a card with a value of 10 (i.e., a 10, a jack, a queen, or a king). Because the dealer's face-up card is an ace, a player who buys insurance is betting that the dealer has a "natural."

[0120] If a player originally bets $10 and the dealer shows an ace, the player can buy insurance by betting up to $5. Suppose a player places a $5 insurance bet and is dealt a two-card hand totaling 19. If, after the insurance bet period ends, the dealer's hole card is revealed to be a 10 (the dealer checks "natural" before the player plays his hand), the player loses the original $10 bet but wins the $5 insurance bet at odds of 2:1, winning $10 and breaking even. In the same situation, if the dealer's hole card is not a card worth 10, the player immediately loses the $5 insurance bet. However, if the player chooses to stand on 19 and the dealer's hand has a total value of less than 19 when the dealer's turn is over, the player wins the original $10 bet and earns a net profit of $5. In the same situation, if the dealer's hole card is not a card worth 10, the player again immediately loses the $5 insurance bet, and if the dealer's hand has a greater total value than the player's hand after both turns are completed, for example, if the player stands on 19 and the dealer finishes his turn on 20, the player loses both the original $10 bet and the $5 insurance bet.

[0121] Basic Strategy Blackjack players can increase their expected winnings through several means, one of which is "basic strategy." "Basic strategy" simply exists as a matter of general practice and has no official sanction. "Basic strategy" determines the best course of action: when to hit and when to stand, and when to double down or split. Basic strategy is based on the player's point total and the dealer's visible cards. Under some conditions (e.g., single-deck play according to Las Vegas downtown rules), the house advantage against players using basic strategy can be as low as 0.16%. Casinos that offer options such as surrender and doubling after splitting give players using basic strategy a statistical advantage and may rely on player error to gain a house advantage.

[0122] Some optional rules may benefit skilled players, such as allowing doubling down on any two-card hand other than a natural; "doubling down" after splitting; allowing early surrender (giving up half of the bet on a face-up or ace-up card before the dealer checks for blackjack); allowing late surrender; allowing aces to be resplit (a player has three or more cards in their hand and splits when a second ace is dealt to their hand); allowing two or more cards to be drawn against a split ace; and automatic wins (called "charlies") on five or more cards totaling 21 or less.

[0123] There are also optional rules that can disadvantage skilled players, such as when a "natural" pays less than 3:2 (e.g., single-deck blackjack on the Las Vegas Strip pays 6:5 for a "natural"); when a hand can only be split once (resplitting is allowed except for aces); when doubling down is limited to certain totals (e.g., 9 11 or 10 11); when aces cannot be resplit; "no-peek" (or European) blackjack rules, where a hand that a player splits or "doubles down" loses against a dealer with a "natural" (because the dealer does not check this automatically winning hand until the player has finished playing the hand); when a tie with the dealer results in the player losing, rather than a push where neither the player nor the dealer wins and the player keeps their original bet.

[0124] Card Counting Unlike some other casino games, where plays have no effect on subsequent plays, cards in a blackjack hand are removed from the deck. As cards are removed from the deck, the probability of being dealt for each remaining card changes (and it becomes impossible to deal the same card). If the remaining cards contain a high percentage of 10-value cards and aces, the player is more likely to be dealt naturals, which is to the player's advantage (because if the dealer has a natural, he wins money at even odds, whereas if the player has a natural, the player wins at 3:2 odds). If the remaining cards contain a high percentage of lower-value cards, such as 4s, 5s, and 6s, the player is more likely to bust, which is to the dealer's advantage (because if the player busts, the dealer wins, even if the dealer later busts).

[0125] The house advantage in blackjack is relatively small initially. By tracking which cards are dealt, players can take advantage of the changing proportion of remaining cards by betting higher amounts when the proportion of 10-value cards and aces is high and lower amounts when the proportion of lower-value cards is high. Over time, the deck will likely shift more against than for the player, but by adjusting betting amounts, players can overcome any inherent disadvantages. Players can also use this information to refine their basic strategy. For example, basic strategy calls for hitting with a 16 when the dealer's face-up card is a 10, but if a player knows that a disproportionately small number of lower-value cards remain, the odds may shift in favor of standing on a 16.

[0126] There are several methods of counting cards, and the effectiveness of all depends on the player's ability to remember a simplified or detailed account of the cards that have been played. The more detailed the account, the more accurate it is, but the more difficult it is to remember. Card counting is not cheating, but if discovered, casinos will kick out or ban anyone who successfully counts cards.

[0127] Shuffle tracking is a more stealthy and difficult way to try to shift the odds in a player's favor: the player tracks each group of cards during play of a multi-deck shoe, tracks them through the shuffle, and then attempts to look for the same group to reappear in the new shoe and play and bid accordingly.

[0128] Baccarat Rules Several versions of baccarat are now described. In baccarat, cards 2 through 9 are worth their face value, cards 10 and face cards (J, Q, K) are worth 0, and aces are worth 1 point. Players calculate their score by adding up all the cards and performing a modulo 10 operation on the total. For example, a hand made up of a 2 and a 3 is worth 5 (2 + 3 = 5). A hand made up of a 6 and a 7 is worth 3 (6 + 7 = 13 modulo 10 = 3). A hand made up of a 4 and a 6 is worth 0, also known as baccarat (4 + 6 = 10 modulo 10 = 0). The name "baccarat" is used to describe the worst hand in the game, a hand worth 0 points. The highest score that can be achieved is 9.

[0129] One common variant of baccarat is called Punto Banco. In Punto Banco, players can place bets on either the Player hand or the Banker hand. The initial deal includes two cards dealt to each of the Player and Banker hands. Both cards in each hand are then turned over and added together to determine the initial score for each hand. After the deal, play is controlled by the rules without any controlling input from the players. Depending on the two hands, the Player and Banker either draw cards or stand. The hand with the highest total after each participant's action is the winning hand.

[0130] If either the Player or Banker achieves a total of 8 or 9 on the initial deal (called a "natural"), no further cards are drawn. If the Player also does not have an 8 or 9, play continues as follows: If a player has an initial total of 0-5, they draw one card, and if they have an initial total of 6 or 7, they stand. · The banker's play depends on the banker's hand, whether the player draws a card, and which cards the player draws. If the player does not draw a card, the banker draws a card if he has a 0-5 and stands if he has a 6 or 7. If the player draws a 2 or 3, the banker draws a card if he has 0-4 and stands if he has 5-7. If the player draws a 4 or 5, the banker draws a card if he has a 0-5 and stands if he has a 6 or 7. If the player draws a 6 or 7, the banker draws a card if he has a 0-6 and stands if he has a 7. If the player draws an 8, the banker must draw a card if they have a 0-2 and stand if they have a 3-7. If the player draws an Ace, 9, 10, or face card, the banker must draw a card if they have a 0-3 and stand if they have a 4-7.

[0131] After the hand is played, winners and losers are determined based on the final score of the hand. Losing bets are collected, and winning bets are paid according to house rules. In some embodiments, 1-1 is paid to the Player, 95% is paid to the Banker, and 5% is a commission to the house. Some embodiments pay both the Player and Banker equal amounts or 1-1, except if the Banker wins with a 6, in which case the Banker is paid 50%, or half, of the original bet. Other embodiments may have other payouts associated with the various bets, as described in more detail below.

[0132] If both the "Banker" hand and the "Player" hand have the same value at the end of the deal, the result is a tie. A tie is called an egalite. In some embodiments, tie bets are paid 9 for 1 wager, or odds of 8:1, or any other desired odds. In some embodiments, in the event of a tie, players who bet on the Banker player can request a return of their initial bet. In other embodiments, such bets may be lost.

[0133] Another version of baccarat is known as Chemin de Fer. Chemin de Fer generally involves six full packs of cards in the same pattern shuffled together. The shuffle in Chemin de Fer usually involves a first player, known as the croupier, shuffling the cards and then passing them on, with each player having the right to shuffle in turn. After going around the table, the croupier shuffles again and, after shuffling, offers the cards to the player to his left, who then cuts the cards. The croupier places the cards in front of him and then takes a manageable number from the top and passes them to the player to his right, who is currently the dealer or "banker." Of course, other embodiments may include any variation from this conventional method.

[0134] The dealer places the amount of his bet in front of him. Other players, starting with the player immediately to the right of the dealer, are eligible to say "banco," which means "go to bank" to play for the entire banker's stake. If no one says "banco," each player places the amount of their desired bet in front of them. If the total amount so bet by the players does not equal the current amount in the bank, others who are standing the round may also stake. If there is more than the amount in the bank, the player closest in turn to the banker has priority to stake up to that amount, and the banker has the right to reduce any stakes above that limit.

[0135] The banker then deals four cards face up, dealing the first to the player on his right, the second to himself, the third to the player, and the fourth to himself. The player with the highest stake represents all players. If two players are tied at this point, the first player in the rotation takes priority. Each player then looks at their cards. If they turn out to be either a 9 or an 8, they turn their cards face up and the hand ends. If the banker has the better points, the player's stake becomes the property of the bank. If the player has the better points, the banker pays each player their stake amount.

[0136] New stakes are made and the game continues. If the Banker is the winner, he or she deals again. If not, the cards are passed to the next player in line, who then becomes Banker on their turn.

[0137] If neither player turns over a card, this indicates that neither player has an 8 or 9. In this case, the banker must offer a third card. A player naturally accepts if the total point is baccarat (i.e., 0), 1, 2, 3, or 4. In that case, a third card is dealt face up to the player. If the player's point total is already 6 or 7, the player equally naturally rejects the offered card. Accepting a card with a 6 or 7 or rejecting a card with a baccarat, 1, 2, 3, or 4 (both cases are known as "false draws") is a deviation from the established procedure of the game and may result in a penalty or loss. Only when the point total is 5 is it at the player's discretion whether to take a card, and generally no one has the right to advise the player or comment on the player's decisions.

[0138] The banker may decide whether or not to draw cards himself, and after or without drawing as he chooses, reveals his cards and accepts or pays accordingly. In the case of a tie, there is no win or loss and the stake remains for the next hand.

[0139] The Banker is not allowed to withdraw any part of his winnings, and any winnings increase the amount of his bank. If the Dealer wishes to retire at any given moment, he may say "I pass the deal." In such a case, each other player has the option of taking the Banker in rotation, but must start with the same amount that existed when the last Banker retired. If no one is willing to bet such a high amount, the deal passes to the next player to the right of the retiring Banker, who is free to start his bank with whatever amount he deems fair; the last Banker is now considered to be last in the rotation, but all other important points remain unaffected.

[0140] A player who "goes bank" and loses is eligible to do so again in the next hand, even though the tie may have been "passed" to another player.

[0141] When the initial supply of cards is exhausted, the croupier takes a new handful from the pile in front of him, has the player to his left cut them, and hands them to the banker. To be a valid deal, the dealer's hand must be left with at least seven cards. If the hand contains fewer than this number of cards, the cards are discarded and the banker takes a new supply as described above.

[0142] Yet another version of Baccarat is known as Baccarat Banque. In Baccarat Banque, the banker's position is more permanent than in Chemin de Fer. Three packs of cards are shuffled together (this number is not absolute; three is simply a more common number). The banker (unless he retires at his own discretion or because he has run out of funds) serves as banker until all of these cards have been dealt.

[0143] The bank is initially put up for auction, i.e., belongs to the player who bets the most. In some embodiments, the first person to agree to play has the right to keep the original bank by betting whatever amount they deem reasonable.

[0144] The banker deals three cards, dealing the first to the player on his right, the second to the player on his left, the third to himself, and so on for the next three. The player on his right (and any bystanders betting with him) wins or loses by the cards dealt to his right, and the other player wins or loses by the cards dealt to his left. The rules for turning over cards on an 8 or 9, offering and accepting cards, etc. are the same as in Baccarat Chemin de Fer.

[0145] Each player keeps their side of the cards as long as they are winning. If they lose, the next hand is dealt to the player next in line after the losing player.

[0146] Any player may "go to the bank," and the right to request to do so first belongs to the player immediately to the right of the banker, then to the player to the left of the banker, and so on, alternating in a fixed order. If two players on opposite sides want to "go to the bank," each plays for half a share of the bank.

[0147] A player who goes to the Bank may play a single hand as usual, or two separate hands, with half the stake played on each hand. A player who goes to the Bank and loses can go to the Bank again, and if he loses again, he can go to the Bank a third time, but no more.

[0148] The player undertaking to hold the bank must play out one hand, but may retire at any time thereafter. When retiring, the banker must state the amount of the retirement. The continuation of the bank is then opened to any other player (in rotational order), starting with the same amount and dealing from the remainder of the pack used by their predecessor. The retiring banker takes the place previously occupied by the banker's successor.

[0149] A bank break does not deprive the banker of the right to continue if the banker has replacement funds to meet the negotiated minimum.

[0150] If a player's stake exceeds the current amount in the bank, the banker is not liable for such excess. If the dealer loses, the croupiers will pay the players in rotation as long as there are funds in the bank, but if the funds run out, the player has no claim. However, in such a case, the banker may declare acceptance of the stake without relying on his own rights and immediately make available funds to match it. In such a case, the bank becomes unlimited from that point on, and the banker must hold all stakes offered in any subsequent hands (up to whatever amount they may be) or give up the bank.

[0151] It should be appreciated that the variations on the baccarat game are provided merely as examples, and that other embodiments may include any variations desired. For example, various embodiments may include variations on the traditional baccarat game described. Such variations may, for example, make the game playable on a gaming device. Such variations may include variations to the gameplay rules, such as who wins when, what payouts are received, when bets can be made, what actions must be taken, the number of players, the number of decks, etc.

[0152] XII. Tracking Table Behavior U.S. Patent No. 6,579,181 generally describes a "system for automatically monitoring game play and betting." "In one exemplary embodiment, the system includes a card deck reader that automatically reads each symbol from each card in a card deck before the first card is removed from the deck. The symbols identify the value of the card by rank and suit and can take the form of machine-readable symbols such as bar codes, area codes, matrix codes, or stack codes. In another aspect, to ensure security, the system does not decode the read symbols until each card is dealt."

[0153] "In another aspect, the system may include a chip tray reader that automatically images the contents of the chip tray. The system periodically determines the number and value of chips in the chip tray from the images, compares changes in the chip tray contents with the outcome of game play, and verifies that the proper amounts are paid and collected.

[0154] "In a further aspect, the system may include a table monitor that automatically images activities or events occurring at the gaming table. The system periodically compares images of the gaming table to identify bets and the appearance, removal, and location of cards and / or other objects on the gaming table. The table monitoring system may be located discreetly within the chip tray."

[0155] U.S. Patent No. 6,579,181 generally describes a "drop box that automatically verifies the amount and authenticity of a deposit and checks the deposit against changes in the contents of a chip tray." The drop box can image various portions of a deposited item using appropriate lighting and resolution selections to examine the security features of the deposited item.

[0156] "In another aspect, the system may utilize some or all of the components to monitor player gaming habits and employee behavior. The system may detect suspicious playing or betting patterns that may be prohibited. The system may also identify player and dealer win / loss ratios, along with several other statistically relevant metrics. Such metrics may provide a high degree of automated security and automated real-time accounting for a casino or other gaming establishment. The metrics may further provide a basis for automatically allocating service awards to players."

[0157] Various embodiments include devices, methods, and systems that utilize a card dispensing shoe with a scanner and associated software. The scanner and software allow a card dealer, when dealing a game from the card dispensing shoe with the scanner preferably positioned on a game table where a 21 game being evaluated by the software is being played, to use one or more keyboards and / or LCD displays coupled to the shoe to identify to a computer program the number of active player seats or active players, including the dealer's relative location and the active plays dealt from the shoe on the game table during each game round. The keyboard and LCD display are also used to input other data related to each seat's or player's betting and / or decision strategy for each hand played. The data is analyzed by a computer software program designed to evaluate, in real time, the strategic decisions and betting skills of casino 21 players or blackjack players playing a game of blackjack. The evaluation software is coupled to a central processing unit (CPU) or host computer, which is also coupled to the shoe's keyboard and LCD display. Using one or more keyboards attached to or carried by the shoe, or located near the dealer, the dealer can view and record the exact bet amount of each player on each hand played in the game being evaluated. An optical scanner coupled to the CPU reads the value of each card dealt to each player's hand and the dealer's hand as each card is dealt to a particular hand, seat, or position, and converts the game card value of each card dealt from the shoe to the players and dealer of the game into card counting system values ​​for one or more card counting systems programmed into the evaluation software. The CPU also records each player's hand hit decision as the hit card is removed from the shoe, and the dealer's decision to hit, i.e., draw another card, when required by the rules of the game.The dealer uses one or more of the keyboards and LCD displays carried on the shoe to record each player's decision to insure, surrender, stand, double down, or split their hand. If the dealer has an Ace or a 10 as his or her face-up card, the dealer's face-down second card, or hole card, has been scanned and its game card value imported into the computer system software, so the dealer uses one or more keyboards to request the computer system software to immediately notify the dealer via one or more LCDs on the shoe whether the dealer's game card or hand total, taken together, constitutes "21" or "blackjack."

[0158] In various embodiments, a card playing system for playing a card game, including a card delivery shoe apparatus for use in dealing playing cards to at least one player for playing a card game, comprises, in combination: housing means having a chute for supporting at least one deck of playing cards, the playing cards being capable of moving through the chute one at a time, the housing means having an exit opening through which the playing cards of the deck can be moved one at a time out of the housing means during play of the card game; card scanning means disposed within the housing means for scanning indicia on each playing card as it moves out of the chute of the housing means; means for receiving output of the card scanning means, identifying each playing card received by each player from the shoe, evaluating information about each player who received a playing card and its value with information about the playing strategy used by each player relative to the value of the received playing card, and combining all of this information to identify each player's playing strategy; and a playing table coupled to the card delivery shoe apparatus, the playing table having at least one keypad means disposed thereon for enabling the at least one player to select various card playing options on which to bet.

[0159] In various embodiments, a card playing system for playing a card game, including a card delivery shoe apparatus for use in dealing playing cards to at least one player for playing a card game, comprises, in combination: housing means having a chute for supporting at least one deck of playing cards, the playing cards being capable of moving through the chute one at a time, the housing means having an exit opening through which the playing cards of the deck can be moved one at a time out of the housing means during play of the card game; card scanning means disposed within the housing means for scanning indicia on each playing card as it moves out of the chute of the housing means; means for receiving output of the card scanning means, identifying such playing cards received by each player from the shoe apparatus, evaluating information about each player who received a playing card and its value with information about the betting strategy used by each player on previously dealt playing cards from a shoe apparatus that provides count information, and combining all of this information to identify each player's card counting strategy; and a playing table coupled to the card delivery shoe apparatus, the playing table having at least one keypad means disposed thereon for enabling the at least one player to select at least one of various card playing options for betting.

[0160] In various embodiments, a card playing system for playing a card game including a card delivery shoe apparatus for use in dealing playing cards to at least one player for playing a card game comprises: housing means having a chute for supporting at least one deck of playing cards, the housing means being capable of moving the playing cards one at a time through the chute, the housing means having an exit opening for allowing the playing cards of the deck to be moved one at a time out of the housing means during play of the card game; card scanning means disposed within the housing means for scanning indicia on each playing card as each playing card moves out of the chute of the housing means; and card scanning means for receiving output from the card scanning means and scanning each deck received by each player from the shoe apparatus. and means for identifying a card counting strategy for each player and evaluating information about each player who has received a playing card and its value with information about the playing strategy each player will use for the value of the playing card received, and combining all of this information to identify each player's card counting strategy and also to identify each player's card counting strategy based on each player's betting strategy used by each player on playing cards previously dealt from a shoe device that provides the card count information; and a playing table coupled to the card supplying shoe device, the playing table having at least one keypad means disposed thereon that allows at least one player to select at least one of various card playing options for betting.

[0161] In various embodiments, a secure gaming table system configured for multiple sites under central control enables hand monitoring in a progressive live card game. The live card game has at least one deck, each deck having a predetermined number of cards. Each gaming table in the system has multiple player positions, each of which may or may not have a user, and a dealer is located at the dealer position.

[0162] In one embodiment, to provide additional security, a common identification code is placed on each card in each deck. Each deck has a different common identification code. To shuffle multiple decks together, a shuffler is used, which has circuitry that counts cards from a previous hand that are inserted into the shuffler for reshuffling. The shuffler circuit counts each inserted card and reads the common identification code placed on each card. The shuffler circuit emits a signal corresponding to the count and the common identification code readout. A game control mechanism (e.g., a computer) located at each table receives this signal from the shuffler circuit and verifies that a player (or dealer) has not removed a card from the hand or replaced it with a new card. If the count is incorrect, if the game card does not have an identification code, or if the identification codes do not match, a new deck of cards must be used, and an alarm signal is generated indicating a possible breach of game security has occurred.

[0163] In yet another embodiment of security, a unique code, such as a barcode, is placed on each card, and as the dealer deals each card from the shoe, a detector reads the code and issues a signal to the game control that includes at least the value and suit of each card dealt in the hand. The detector can also read a common identifying deck code and issue that as a signal to the game control. The shoe can have an optical scanner that generates an image of each card in the hand as the dealer deals them from the shoe. The game control stores this information in memory, thereby recording the history of each card in the hand that has been dealt from the shoe.

[0164] In yet another embodiment of security, an integrated shuffler / shoe takes optical images of each card in a hand dealt from the shoe and each card inserted into the shuffler after a hand. These images are sent to the game control mechanism, which counts and compares the images. If an irregular count or comparison occurs, an alarm is sounded. The shuffler and shoe are integrated to provide security between the two units.

[0165] In yet another embodiment of security for a live card game, a game bet sensor that senses the presence of a game bet is placed near each of a plurality of player positions. The game bet sensor emits a signal that counts placed tokens. It is entirely possible that the game bet sensors at some player positions have no bets, and thus the game control that receives these signals determines which player positions have players placing game bets. This information is stored in memory and becomes part of the game history.

[0166] In another embodiment of security, a progressive bet sensor is placed at each of a plurality of player positions to sense the presence of a progressive bet. Signals emitted by the progressive bet sensors are received by a game control, which records in memory the progressive bet placed at each sensed player position. If a progressive bet is sensed but a game bet is not sensed, the game control generates an alarm signal indicating an illegal bet. At this point, the game control has knowledge of the identity of each player position that has placed a game bet and the identity of the player positions that have placed game bets and progressive bets. This is stored in memory as part of the history of the hand.

[0167] In another embodiment of security, card sensors are placed near each player position and the dealer position. The card sensors emit a signal for each card received. A game control receives this emitted signal and correlates the received cards with player positions that have placed game bets. If a player position without a game bet receives a card, or if a player position with a game bet receives a card out of turn, the game control generates an alarm. This information is added to a game history in memory, the history including the value and suit of each card delivered to each player position with a game bet.

[0168] A progressive jackpot display may be located at each gaming table to display one or more jackpot prizes for one or more winning combinations of cards. In one embodiment of the present invention, the gaming control at each table stores in memory the winning combinations required to win the progressive jackpot. Because the gaming control precisely remembers the suit and value of each card received at a particular player's position, it can automatically detect the winning combination and issue a win signal to that player's position. The dealer can then verify that the player at that position does indeed have the correct card combination. The gaming control continuously updates a central control interconnected to all other gaming tables, allowing the central control to then notify all gaming tables of this win, including the winner's name and the amount won, if desired.

[0169] The central control is in continuous communication with each game control, and the associated progressive jackpot displays can receive all or part of the information stored in each game control via the communication link.

[0170] Various embodiments include a card shoe having a device that automatically recognizes and tracks the value of each game card that is concealed (face down) and drawn from the card shoe.

[0171] Various embodiments include a gaming table with a device that automatically recognizes which boxes (hands) are played or not played, thereby facilitating the use of multiple bets and insurance lines on each hand. Additionally, the gaming table may include a device that automatically recognizes the number of cards placed in front of each player and the dealer.

[0172] Various embodiments include recognition, tracking, and storage of gaming chips.

[0173] In various embodiments, an electronic data processing (EDP) program may process the value of all bets on each box and associated insurance line, control the card delivery sequence, control the distribution of game cards to each player and the dealer, calculate and compare the total scores of each hand, and assess player winnings.

[0174] The game data can then be processed by an EDP program and displayed simultaneously with the actual game on a special monitor or display. The same data can be recalled later, on demand, to monitor the total results.

[0175] Various embodiments include a gaming table, a gaming tablecloth for placement on the gaming table, the gaming tablecloth having bet boxes, areas designated for placement of gaming chips, and other areas designated for placement of playing cards, a card shoe for receiving one or more decks of playing cards, the card shoe including means for drawing individual playing cards face down such that the card values ​​printed on the drawn cards are not visible to a player of the game of chance, card recognition means for recognizing the card values ​​printed on cards drawn from the card shoe, the card recognition means being located within the card shoe, and a counter for detecting the card values ​​of the gaming chips placed in the designated areas. the occupancy detection unit including means for registering separate counts of playing cards placed in the bet boxes, chip areas, and other designated areas on the tablecloth, the occupancy detection unit being arranged under the tablecloth and consisting of a plurality of single detectors respectively assigned to each bet box, chip area, and each other area for playing cards; a game bet detector which automatically recognizes game bets or is manually input; and a computer including means for evaluating the play of the games of chance in accordance with the rules of the games of chance, means for storing the play results of the games of chance, and means for displaying the play process and results of the games of chance from electronic signals input from the game bet detector, the occupancy detection unit, and the card recognition means.

[0176] According to various embodiments, the card recognition means comprises an optical window disposed along a path of movement of a card image printed on a playing card drawn from a card shoe, a pulsed light source for illuminating a portion of the drawn playing card disposed opposite the optical window, a CCD image converter for the portion of the drawn playing card disposed opposite the optical window, an optical element for deflecting and transmitting a reflected image of the card value print from the drawn playing card from that portion of the drawn playing card to the CCD image converter when the drawn card is exactly in the correct drawn position opposite the optical window, and sensor means for detecting movement of the drawn card and providing precise timing for operating the pulsed light source to transmit the reflected image to the CCD image converter. The optical element for deflecting and transmitting the reflected image can include a mirror configured to deflect the reflected image toward the CCD image converter. Alternatively, the optical element that deflects and transmits the reflected image may comprise a reflective optical prism having two planes arranged perpendicular to each other, one of which covers the optical window and the other of which faces the CCD image converter and is equipped with a mirror, and a pulsed light source arranged behind the latter plane to illuminate the drawn card when it is positioned over the optical window. Advantageously, the sensor means for detecting the movement of the drawn card and providing the correct timing comprises a single sensor, preferably a pressure sensor or a photoelectric threshold element, that senses the front edge of the drawn card to determine whether the drawn card is being drawn or not, and activates the CCD image converter and the pulsed light source when the back edge of the drawn card passes the sensor means. Alternatively, the sensor means may comprise two photoelectric sensors, one of which is arranged outside the path of movement of the card image print on the drawn playing card, and the other of which is arranged in the path of movement of the card image print on the drawn card. The latter photoelectric sensor may include means for activating a pulsed light source by sensing a color trigger as the card value print passes the optical window. In a preferred embodiment of the card shoe, the pulsed light source comprises a xenon lamp.

[0177] In various embodiments of the gaming device, each of the single detectors of the occupancy detector unit includes a photosensitive sensor that detects chips or playing cards placed on a tablecloth covering each single detector. Each single detector can be an infrared-sensitive photodiode, preferably a silicon photodiode. Advantageously, the single detectors can be arranged within the occupancy detector unit such that chips or playing cards placed on the tablecloth covering a single detector are placed on at least two single detectors.

[0178] The gaming device may include automatic means for distinguishing color marks or regions on chips and generating bet output signals according to the color marks or regions and the number of chips having the same color marks or regions.

[0179] The game bet detector may include automatic means for distinguishing between chips of different values ​​in a game of chance and means for generating a bet output signal according to the different chip values ​​when a player bets a chip. In various embodiments, the game bet detector includes a radio frequency transceiver station, and each chip is provided with a transponder that responds to the transceiver station and transmits the value of the bet chip back to the transceiver station.

[0180] The connections between the individual units of the gaming device and the computer may be wireless or wired.

[0181] XIV. Bet Tracking Various embodiments include a smart card delivery shoe that reads the suit and rank of each card before it is dealt to the various positions where it is to be dealt during the play of a casino table card game. The cards are then dealt to the required card positions according to the game's outcome. Different games have a wide variety of card delivery positions, different card numbers, and different delivery orders, which the hand identification system of the present invention must accommodate. For example, in the game of blackjack, where card delivery is the most complex, cards are typically dealt one at a time around the table, one card at a time to each player position, and then to the dealer position. The one-at-a-time card delivery order is repeated again so that each player position and the dealer position have an initial hand of exactly two cards. Complexity in hand creation is introduced because players have essentially unlimited control over the addition of cards until the hand's point value exceeds 21. Knowing the hand count provides no guarantee as to what a player will do, as a player may stand on a count of 2 (two aces) or hit on a count of 21 if they wish. Dealers, on the other hand, are required to follow strict house rules for game play according to the value of the dealer's hand. There may be slight variations, such as allowing or prohibiting hitting on a "soft" count of 17 (e.g., an ace and a six), but otherwise the rules are very clear and no strategy can be exercised by the house or the dealer.

[0182] Other card games may deal equal numbers of cards together. For example, in a variant of stud poker played against a dealer, five-card hands are typically dealt five at a time to each player position, and, if playing against a dealer, to the dealer position. This card hand distribution is very simple to track, since each successive five cards drawn from the dealer shoe constitutes a hand.

[0183] Other games may require cards to be dealt to players and other cards to a flop or common card area, and the system may also be programmable to accommodate this alternative, if desired.

[0184] Baccarat is similar to blackjack in terms of card dealing order, but has stricter rules about when players and dealers can hit, with each position only being allowed to take a maximum of one card as a hit. The hand identification system of the present invention must be able to meet the hand identification needs in each of these types of games, and in particular be able to identify hands in the most complex situations, namely playing blackjack.

[0185] In various embodiments, when a camera is used to read the cards, the light-sensing system may be any image capture system, digital or analog, capable of identifying the suit and rank of the card.

[0186] In various embodiments, the first step in operation is to provide a set of cards to the smart delivery shoe. The cards are cards that are used in playing casino table card games. The set of cards (typically one or more decks) is provided as a pre-randomized set, either removed from a shuffler or shuffled by hand. The smart delivery shoe is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 622,321, entitled SMART DELIVERY SHOE, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Some dispensing systems or shoes with reading capabilities include, but are not limited to, those disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,750,743, 5,779,546, 5,605,334, 6,361,044, 6,217,447, 5,941,769, 6,229,536, 6,460,848, 5,722,893, 6,039,650, and 6,126,166. In various embodiments, cards are read sequentially, for example, one at a time, within a smart card dispensing shoe. Reading cards with edge marks and special codes (e.g., as in U.S. Patent No. 6,460,848) may require special encoding and marking of the cards. Thus, the entire sequence of cards within a card set can be determined and stored in a memory that may be at least partially within the smart dispensing shoe but in communication with a central processor, in which case the sequence is stored also or only in the central computer.

[0187] In various embodiments, the cards are then dealt from a smart delivery shoe, which registers how many cards are dispensed at a time. This can be accomplished by the above-identified U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 622,321, in which cards are dispensed one at a time into a dealer dispense area so that only one card can be dispensed by the dealer. As each card is dispensed, a signal is generated indicating that a card (of a particular rank and suit) has been dealt. The computer and system only know that the first card has been dealt and assumes it goes to the first player. The remaining cards are dealt to the players and the dealer. In the play of certain games (e.g., stud variants) where a certain number of cards are known to be dealt to each position, the shoe can be programmed with the number of players at any given time, allowing hands to be correlated even before they are dealt. If the shoe is playing a stud variant (a Three Card Poker™ game) in which each player and dealer gets three cards, the system can know in advance of the deal what cards each player and dealer has in their hand. There can also be a signal that becomes available when the dealer receives the first card (e.g., if cards are dealt one at a time in sequence) or when the entire hand is received. This signal can be used to automatically determine the number of active player positions at the table at any given time. For example, in a hand of blackjack, if the dealer receives the sixth card, the system can immediately know that there are five players at the table. This signal can be given manually (by pressing a button at the dealer's position or on the smart card delivery shoe) or automatically (a card present sensor at the dealer's position, where a card can be placed over the sensor to provide the signal). If the automatic signal is provided by a sensor, the sensor may have some physical protection, such as a shield to prevent accidental contact with or blockage of the sensor.An L-shaped cover may be used to slide cards under the arm of an L parallel to the table surface, covering the sensor under that branch of the L. A signal may also be given after all cards in a hand have been dealt, again indicating the number of players. For example, if the dealer's two cards are slid under the L-shaped cover to block or contact the sensor, the system knows the total number of cards dealt in the hand (e.g., 10 cards), knows the dealer has two cards, and therefore determines that the players have eight cards, and knows that each player has two cards, thereby determining categorically that there are four active player positions at the table (10 - 2 = 8, and 8 / 2 = 4 players). This automatic determination can serve as an alternative to having the dealer enter the number of players for each hand at the table or having to manually change the number of players indicated at the table each time the number of players changes.

[0188] Once all active positions have been dealt, the system now knows which cards are initially present in each player's hand, the dealer's hand, and any flop or common hand. If no more cards are provided for play of the casino table game, system operation can be simple. In this case, all hands are known and all outcomes can be predicted. For blackjack games, the complexity of adding cards is accommodated.

[0189] After dealing the initial set of two cards per hand, the system does not immediately know where the remaining cards will be dealt. However, it does know which cards have been dealt. This knowledge and the subsequent identification of discarded hands can be used to reconcile or verify the hands and cards from the smart delivery shoe. Each hand is already identified by the presence of two distinct cards. Hands are then played according to the rules of the game, and are discarded when the hand is exhausted. A hand is exhausted when: 1) there is a blackjack, the hand is paid out and the cards are cleared; 2) the hand breaks for a count over 21, the cards are cleared, and / or the round of the game has been played to the end, i.e., until the dealer's hand is completed, all bets are settled, and the cards are cleared. To allow for manual hand reconciliation, cards are picked up from the table in the correct order, as is typically done in casinos. Cards are typically cleared from the dealer's right to the dealer's left, with each position containing cards in the order they were dealt, with the first card at the bottom, the second card above the first, the third card above the second, and so on. Maintaining the order or a close approximation of the order (e.g., the first two cards may be reversed) is important because the first two cards form the anchor, focus, base, fence, endpoint, or set edge of each hand. For example, if a third player position is known to have received the ten of hearts (10H) and the nine of spades (9S) as their first two cards, and a fourth player is known to have received the eight of diamonds (8D) and the three of clubs (3C) as their first two cards, the edges or anchors of these two hands are 9S / 10H and 8D / 3C. Hands are swept at the conclusion of the game, and cards are sent to a smart discard rack (see, e.g., U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 622,388).If the 9S / 10H hand has not yet been exhausted (e.g., broken or busted), and the swept cards consist of 9S, 10H, 8S, 8D, and 3C (as read by the smart discard rack), the processor software can automatically determine that the final hands in the third and fourth positions were a count of 19 (9S and 10H) for the third hand and a count of 19 (the original 8D and 3C, plus a hit 8S) for the fourth hand. This analysis by the software clearly identifies the fourth hand as a count of 19 using the specific cards read by the smart discard shoe. At this point, the information from the reading of the exhausted hand is compared to the original information gathered from the smart delivery shoe. Even though the cards were not distributed evenly (e.g., player 1 hits twice for a total of four cards, player 2 hits three times for a total of five cards, player 3 hits no hits for a total of two cards, player 4 hits once for a total of three cards, and the dealer hits twice for a total of four cards), the smart supply shoe information is combined with the smart discard rack information to confirm the hand at each position.

[0190] The dealer's cards can be equally subject to analysis in several different forms. After the last card is dealt to the last player, a signal can be generated simply and unobtrusively that the dealer's hand is now active and a hit is possible. For example, using the above-mentioned sensor that detects the presence of the first dealer card or the completion of the dealer's hand, a card is removed from under the L-shaped protective bridge. This type of move is typically made in blackjack, where the dealer reveals at most one card and hides one face-up. In this case, removing a card from over the sensor under the L-shaped cover to reveal the hole card is a natural move, which then exposes the sensor. This can provide a signal to the central processor that the dealer's hand will receive all additional cards in that round of the game. The system now knows the two initial cards in the dealer's hand, the value of the next card in the sequence, and the rules by which the dealer must play. Because the dealer cannot freely make or move decisions in the play of the dealer's hand, the system knows which cards the dealer will receive and what the final total of the dealer's hand will be. When the dealer's hand is placed on the smart discard rack, the discard rack already knows the details of the dealer's hand without even needing to use the first two cards as an anchor or base for the dealer's hand. In some embodiments, cards may be processed in this manner.

[0191] As hands are swept from the table, first the dealer's hand, then the players' hands from right to left (from the dealer's perspective, or vice versa depending on how the house plays), the smart discard rack reads the shoe, identifies the anchor for each hand, and knows that at the end, none of the swept hands can exceed a count of 21, and the computer identifies each individual hand and checks it against the original data from the smart supply shoe, allowing the system to identify each hand played and provide system assurance that the hand was played fairly and accurately.

[0192] If the system fails to verify, several events may occur: a signal may be sent directly to the dealer position, pit area, or security zone, and the cards may be examined to determine the nature and cause of the error, and individual cards may be examined if necessary. If hand and card data is used for various statistical purposes, such as evaluating dealer efficiency, dealer win / loss events, player efficiency, player win / loss events, player statistical habits, unusual playing strategies, or significant playing strategies (e.g., implying card counting), the system may file the particular hand in a "dump" file to prevent it from being used in statistical analysis. This is to ensure that the full benefit of the analysis is not biased by erroneous or idiosyncratic data.

[0193] Various embodiments may include a date stamp on each card dealt (based on the concept of unambiguously identifying the actual time and date defining the order, possibly with a unique sequence identifier). Instead of a date stamp, a specific sequence stamp or mark, such as a specific hand number at a specific table with a specific number of players at a specific casino, may be used. The record may show various indices in the central computer's stored memory, such as Lucky 777 Casino, August 19, 1995, 8:12:17 AM, Table 3, Position 3, Hands 7S / 4D / 9S, or simply identify something similar with an alphanumeric code, such as L7C-819-95-3-3-073-7S / 4D / 9S (where 073 is the 73rd hand dealt). This date stamping of hands, and even cards, in memory can be used as an analytical search tool for security and to improve hand identification.

[0194] 1 shows a block diagram of the minimum components of the hand reading system of the present invention on a table 4: a smart card reading supply shoe 8 with output 14 and a smart card reading discard rack 12 with output 18. Player positions 6 are shown, as is dealer hand position sensor 10 without output port 16.

[0195] In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to use a discard rack that functions to automatically verify hands (e.g., blackjack or bust) that are returned to the discard rack out of sequence. The software described above can be programmed to recognize hands removed out of dealt order based on knowledge of anchor cards (the first two cards) known to have been dealt to a particular hand. For example, if a blackjack is dealt to position 3, the software will identify the removal of that hand, and this will be confirmed by the provision of a third hand to the smart card discard tray, with position 3 essentially being ignored in future hand resolution. More importantly, if the anchor card is, say, 9S / 5C at the second player's position, and the exhausted hand 8D / 9S / 5C is placed in the smart discard rack, that hand will be identified as the hand from the second player's position. If two identical hands happen to be dealt in the same round of play, the software is simply alerted to more diligently identify the location of the exhausted hand by specifically examining the final card order placed in the smart discard rack (all hands are known to the software). Once the concept is understood, this is simply a recognition software implementation.

[0196] The removal of a card from the dealer sensor or other emitted signal identifying all subsequent cards going to the dealer can be useful in defining the edge of play between rounds and identifying the dealer's hand and the end of the round of play. When the dealer's card is deposited and read in the smart discard rack, the central computer knows that another round of play is about to occur and can establish a mark or note that the following sequence is a new round and start the analytical cycle again.

[0197] The discard rack indicates that it has dealt a completed hand by the absence of additional cards in the discard rack infeed tray. When cards are swept from an early exhausted hand (blackjack or break), they are swept one at a time and inserted one at a time into the smart discard rack. When the smart discard rack infeed tray is empty, the system knows that a completed hand has been identified, and it can cross-check that particular hand with information from the smart dispensing shoe. The system can be connected to a dispensing strategy analysis software program, such as SMI's licensed proprietary Bloodhound™ analysis program.

[0198] Various embodiments include casino or card room games modified to include a progressive jackpot component. During the play of a 21 game, in addition to the regular bet, a player has the option of placing additional bets that become part of the progressive jackpot and qualify the player to win the progressive jackpot. If the player's 21 hand contains a specific, predetermined configuration of cards, the player will win all or a portion of the amount displayed in the progressive jackpot. This progressive jackpot feature can also be adapted to any other casino or card room game, such as Draw Poker, Stud Poker, Low-Ball Poker, or Caribbean Stud™ Poker. Various embodiments include a gaming table, such as that used for 21 or Poker, modified by adding a coin acceptor electronically connected to a progressive jackpot meter. When a player drops a coin into the coin acceptor, a light is activated at the player's location, indicating that the player is participating in the game's progressive jackpot component during that hand. Simultaneously, a signal from the coin acceptor is sent to a progressive meter, incrementing the amount displayed on the progressive meter. At the conclusion of each hand's play, the coin acceptor is reset for the next hand. If a player wins all or part of the progressive jackpot, the amount displayed on the progressive jackpot meter is reduced by the amount won by the player. Any number of game tables can be connected to a single progressive jackpot meter.

[0199] XV. Card Shuffler Various embodiments include an automatic card shuffler including a card mixer for receiving cards to be shuffled in first and second trays. Sensors detect the presence of cards in the trays and automatically initiate a shuffling operation, whereby cards are transported from the trays to the card mixer, which randomly interleaves the cards fed into the mixing mechanism and places the interleaved cards into vertically aligned card compartments.

[0200] While the cards are being shuffled, a carriage supporting the ejector is reciprocated back and forth vertically by a reversible linear drive, constantly moving the card ejector along the card receiving compartment. The reversible linear drive is preferably activated upon activation of the shuffling means and operates simultaneously with but independently of the shuffling means. When the shuffling operation is completed, the linear drive is deactivated, thereby randomly positioning the card ejector in a vertical position along the card receiving compartment.

[0201] A sensor located within the card-receiving compartment determines whether the card stack has reached at least a predetermined vertical height. After the card ejector has stopped, if the sensor within the compartment determines that the card stack has reached at least the predetermined height, a mechanism including a motor drive is activated to move a wedge-shaped card ejector into the card-receiving compartment to eject a group of cards in the stack. The group selected is determined by the vertical position reached by the wedge-shaped card ejector.

[0202] In various embodiments, the card ejector pushes a group of cards that it engages outward through the front open end of the compartment, displacing the group of cards from the remaining cards in the stack but not completely or fully ejecting them from the stack.

[0203] When the card ejector reaches the end of its ejection stroke as detected by a microswitch, it retracts from the card compartment and returns to its initial position, ready for the next shuffle and card selection operation.

[0204] In various embodiments, the technique for randomly selecting a group of cards to be ejected from the card compartment utilizes solid-state electronic circuitry, which may include a group of discrete solid-state circuits or a microprocessor, and either technique preferably utilizes a radio frequency generator that increments an N-stage counter during the shuffling operation. When the shuffling operation is complete, the counter stops incrementing. The output of the counter is converted to a DC signal, which is compared to another DC signal representing the vertical position of the card ejector along the card compartment.

[0205] In various embodiments, the random selection is made by incrementing an N-stage counter using a high frequency generator. The high frequency generator is disconnected from the N-stage counter at the end of the shuffling operation. The N-stage counter is then incremented by a very low frequency generator until it reaches a capacity count and is reset. The reciprocating motion of the card ejector ends after a random length of time has elapsed from the time the high frequency generator is disconnected from the N-stage counter to the time the counter advances to the capacity count and is reset by the low frequency generator, which triggers energization of the reciprocating drive, at which point the card ejector carriage coasts and stops.

[0206] In various embodiments, the card ejector partially ejects a group of cards from the stack in the compartment. The partially displaced group of cards is then manually removed from the compartment. In another preferred embodiment, the ejector completely ejects the group of cards from the compartment, causing the ejected cards to fall into a chute that delivers the cards directly to the dealing shoe. A pressure plate on the dealing shoe first forces the cards through the delivery shoe, retracts to a position where the cards can be directly inserted into the dealing shoe, and then returns to its original position, urging the cards toward the output end of the dealing shoe.

[0207] Various embodiments include methods and apparatus for automatically shuffling and cutting playing cards and delivering the shuffled and cut playing cards to a dispensing shoe without any human intervention after the playing cards have been delivered to the shuffling device. In addition, the shuffling operation can be performed immediately upon completion of play of each game and upon the start of a new game, if desired, thereby completely eliminating the need to shuffle all of the playing cards (which may include, for example, six or eight decks) at once. Preferably, cards to be played are collected in a "dead box" and are withdrawn from the dead box when a sufficient number of cards have accumulated to be shuffled and cut using the methods of the present invention.

[0208] Various embodiments include a computer-controlled shuffle-cut system having a housing with at least one transparent wall that allows the shuffled card delivery mechanism to be easily viewed by all players and floor managers in casino applications. The housing is provided with a reciprocatingly slidable playing card pusher that is positioned outside the housing in a first position. A motor-driven transparent door selectively opens and closes an opening in the transparent wall to move the slidably mounted card pusher from the first position to a second position within the housing. After moving to the second position, the slidably mounted card pusher then retracts to the first position. The playing cards are then placed on a motorized platform that selectively moves vertically up and down.

[0209] The motorized transparent door is raised to an open position in response to the motorized platform being in the proper position as detected by suitable sensor means and the depression of a foot or hand operated button accessible to the dealer.

[0210] The motor-driven platform (or "elevator") lifts a stack of playing cards stored therein upward toward the shuffling mechanism in response to the retraction of the slidably mounted card pusher and the closing of the transparent door. The playing cards are then driven by the shuffling mechanism away from the stack in two opposite directions toward first and second card-holding magazines positioned on opposite sides of the elevator. The shuffling mechanism includes motor-driven rollers rotatable on reciprocating mounting devices, with the speed of reciprocation and the rotational speed of the rollers being adjustable. However, instead of the stepper motor utilized in a preferred embodiment, a motor having a constant output speed may alternatively be utilized, if desired, to provide a constant reciprocation and rotational speed.

[0211] Once the shuffling operation is complete, the platform is lowered and the card stacks in each of the receiving compartments are sequentially pushed back onto the moving elevator by a suitable motor-driven pushing mechanism. The order of the pushing mechanism operations is randomized through the use of a random number generator utilized within the operating computer that controls the system. These operations can be repeated as necessary. Typically, a new card undergoes these operations two to four times.

[0212] A guide assembly guides the movement of the cards onto the platform, prevents the shuffled cards from prematurely returning to the elevator platform, and aligns the cards as they drop into the card receiving area and as they are pushed back onto the elevator platform by the motor-driven pushing mechanism.

[0213] After completing multiple shuffling and cutting operations, the platform is lowered again, causing the shuffled and cut cards to move downward toward a movable guide plate having an inclined guide surface.

[0214] As the motor-driven elevator moves downward between the guide plates, the card stack engages the sloped guide surfaces of the generally U-shaped secondary block member, shifting the stack from a horizontal orientation to a diagonal orientation. At approximately the same time, a "drawbridge-like" assembly, consisting of a pair of swingable arms pivotally mounted at their lower ends, swings downward from a vertical orientation to a diagonal orientation about a pivot pin, acting as a diagonal positioning guideway. The diagonally aligned card stack slides downward along the sloped guide surfaces onto the drawbridge-like arms, which, under the control of a stepper motor, are moved downward along the sloped guide surfaces by the U-shaped secondary block member, moving the cards toward and ultimately into the dealing shoe.

[0215] The primary block with the paddle then moves between the notches in the U-shaped secondary block, applying forward pressure to the card stack. The secondary block then retracts to its home position. The paddle is roughly rectangular and aligned diagonally. When the system is initially set up, the paddle is positioned above the path of card movement into the dealing shoe. The secondary block moves the cut and shuffled cards into the dealing shoe, and the paddle is lowered into the path of card movement toward the dealing shoe and moves against the last card in the card stack to be fed into the dealing shoe. When a shuffle and cut operation is performed after initial setup, the paddle comes to rest against the last card previously fed into the dealing shoe. The shuffled and cut cards, sliding along the guide surfaces of the diagonally aligned arms of the drawbridge-like mechanism, come to rest against the opposite surface of the paddle. The paddle functions to isolate playing cards previously fed into the dispensing shoe and also provides a slight pushing force on the cards to urge them towards the output slot of the dispensing shoe, thereby allowing shuffling and delivery operations to be performed simultaneously with the dispensing of playing cards from the dispensing shoe.

[0216] After all of the newly shuffled playing cards have been delivered to the rear end of the dispensing shoe by the U-shaped secondary block, the paddle sandwiched between the two groups of playing cards is raised to an upper position, displacing them from the cards. The movable paddle mounting assembly is then moved rearward by a motor, positioning the paddle behind the rearmost playing card just delivered to the dispensing shoe. The paddle is lowered to its home position, and then the motor controlling the movement of the paddle assembly is de-energized, allowing the rotatably mounted assembly supporting the paddle to move diagonally downward as the playing cards are dispensed from the dispensing shoe, providing sufficient force to urge the playing cards forward toward the playing card dispensing slot in the dealing shoe. The force acting on the paddle assembly is a combination of gravity and the force exerted on the paddle assembly by a constant tension spring assembly. A jogging (or "dither") means jogs or reciprocates the paddle in both forward and backward directions at regular intervals to ensure proper alignment, stacking, and sliding of the playing card stack toward the card dispensing slot in the dealing shoe.

[0217] Upon completion of a game, the dealer typically collects the cards used in the completed game and places them in a dead box on the table. The collected cards are later placed in a reciprocating card pusher. The dealer has the option of inserting the cards in the reciprocating slidable card pusher into the shuffling mechanism, or alternatively, preferably, may postpone the shuffling operation until a larger number of cards have been collected in the reciprocating slidable card pusher. The shuffling and delivery operations can be performed at a frequency selectable by the dealer or casino manager. The shuffling and card delivery operations are fully automatic and are performed without human intervention as soon as the cards are inserted onto the elevator platform in the machine. The cards are always within the player's unobstructed field of view, allowing the player and dealer to observe and verify that the shuffling, cutting, and card delivery operations are being performed properly and without jamming, and that the device is functioning properly. The shuffling and card delivery operations do not conflict with or interfere with the dispensing of cards from the dispensing shoe, allowing these operations to be performed nearly simultaneously, thereby significantly reducing the amount of time devoted to shuffling, thereby greatly increasing playing time and providing a highly efficient random shuffle and cut mechanism.

[0218] The system is controlled by a microcomputer programmed to control the operation of the card shuffling and cutting system. The computer controls the stepper motors through motor drive circuits, an intelligent controller, and optical isolators that link the intelligent controller to the computer. The computer also monitors multiple sensors to ensure the proper operation of each mechanism in the system.

[0219] XVI. Casino Measures Some methods of deterring card counters include using multiple decks. Shoes containing six or eight decks are common. The more cards there are, the smaller the variance in the percentage of cards remaining and the more difficult it is to count them. A player's advantage can also be reduced by shuffling cards more frequently, but this reduces the amount of time available for actual play and therefore reduces the casino's profits. Some casinos currently use shuffling machines, some of which shuffle one deck of cards while another is being played, and others which shuffle cards continuously. Distractions from the gaming floor environment and the alcoholic beverages served also act to deter card counters. Some methods of deterring card counters include using modified payout structures, such as a 6:5 payout for blackjack, which is less favorable to players than the standard 3:2 blackjack payout.

[0220] XVII. Video Gambling Games Video wagering games are set up to mimic table games using adapted table game rules and cards.

[0221] In one version of video poker, a player is allowed to examine five cards randomly selected by a computer. These cards are displayed on a video screen, and the player selects which cards, if any, they wish to keep. If the player wishes to keep all of the cards, i.e., stand, the player presses the "stand" button. If the player wishes to keep only some of the cards, the player selects which cards to keep by pressing the "hold" key located directly below each card displayed on the video screen. After selecting the "keep" cards, the player presses the "deal" button, which automatically and simultaneously replaces the unselected cards with additional cards randomly selected from the remainder of the deck. After the "stand" button is pressed or the cards are replaced, the final held cards are evaluated by the gaming machine's computer, and the player is awarded either play credits or coin payouts determined from a payout table. The payout 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. Extremely rare poker hands are awarded with payouts of 800:1 or more.

[0222] XVIII. DEVICES FOR PLAYING ON A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM 2 shows an apparatus for playing a game. There are a plurality of player units 40-1 to 40-n connected to a game playing system via a communication system 41 such as the Internet, and the game playing system comprises a management unit 42, a player register 43, and a game unit 45. Typically, each unit 40 is a personal computer having a display unit and control means (keyboard and mouse).

[0223] When a player logs onto the game playing system, his unit 40 identifies himself to the administrative unit. The system keeps the player's details in a register 43. The register 43 contains a separate player register unit 44-1 to 44-n for every potential player, i.e., every member of the system.

[0224] Once a player is identified, the player is assigned a game unit 45. The game unit includes player data unit sets 46-1 to 46-6, a dealer unit 47, a control unit 48, and a random dealing unit 49.

[0225] Up to seven players can be assigned to a game unit 45. As shown, there can be several such units, allowing for the simultaneous playing of several games if eight or more members of the system are logged on at the same time. The assignment of player units 40 to player data units 46 can be arbitrary or random, depending on which player data units 46 and game units 45 are free. Each player data unit 46 is loaded from a corresponding player register unit 44, contains essentially the same details as its corresponding player unit 40, and communicates with the player unit 40 to keep the contents of the player data units and player data units updated with each other. In addition, appropriate portions of the contents of the other player data units 46 and dealer unit 47 are passed to the player unit 40 for display.

[0226] A logic unit 48 in the game unit 45 steps the game unit through the various stages of play, initiates dealer action, and awaits appropriate responses from the player units 40. A random dealing unit 49 deals cards essentially randomly to the dealer unit 47 and the player data unit 46. At the end of the hand, the logic unit passes the outcome of the hand, i.e., win or loss, to the player data unit 46 to inform the player of the result. The administrative unit 42 also receives the result and updates the player register unit 44 accordingly.

[0227] The player unit 40 is configured to display a display. The player's position is highlighted to identify the player. As play progresses, the player selects various boxes, enters bets in the boxes, etc., and the results of these actions are displayed. As cards are dealt, a series of overlapping card symbols is displayed in the bonus box. At the player's option, cards can be displayed on the line below the boxes, as well as cards dealt to the dealer. At the end of the hand, a message is displayed informing the player of the results of their bets, i.e., the amount won or lost.

[0228] XIX. Alternative Technologies It will be understood that the techniques described herein for making, using, or implementing various embodiments are only a subset of possible techniques that can be used for the same or similar purposes. The particular techniques described herein are not to be construed as limiting. Rather, various embodiments contemplate alternative techniques for making, using, or implementing various embodiments.

[0229] XX. References The following patents and patent applications are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes: U.S. Pat. No. 6,579,181, U.S. Pat. No. 6,299,536, U.S. Pat. No. 6,093,103, U.S. Pat. No. 5,941,769, U.S. Pat. No. 7,114,718, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10 / 622,321, U.S. Pat. No. 4,515,367, U.S. Pat. No. 5,000,453, U.S. Pat. No. 7,137,630, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,137,629.

[0230] XXI. Example of Implementation Some embodiments may provide a player of a game of baccarat (e.g., a Punto Banco variant) with the opportunity to place interim bets during a hand of the game. For example, after one or more cards have been dealt to one or more of the player and banker, a player of a game of baccarat may be offered the opportunity to place a bet on the game with odds based on the then-current state of the hand. The state of the hand may include a set of states that constitute the current state of the hand. For example, the state of the hand may include cards dealt to date in the hand, cards discarded from the hand, cards in the deck, cards discarded from the deck, cards visible to the player, and / or any other information describing the current state of the hand. While some embodiments are described in terms of a Punto Banco variant of baccarat, it should be understood that other variants of baccarat and / or other games may be used in other embodiments.

[0231] In some embodiments, players may be allowed to place bets on a baccarat hand at the start of the hand (e.g., which hand will win—player, banker, or tie), as is typically allowed in baccarat.

[0232] In an example embodiment, intermediate bets may be offered / allowed after a game has begun. In some embodiments, an intermediate bet may include a bet after at least one initial card has been dealt (e.g., to one or more of the player and banker). In some embodiments, an intermediate bet may include a bet based, at least in part, on the second card to be dealt. Examples of intermediate bets may include bets on card characteristics, bets on hand characteristics (e.g., banker hand, player hand), bets on the outcome of a hand, etc. Characteristics may include point values ​​(e.g., 9), numbers (e.g., Ace, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, J, Q, K), suits (e.g., hearts, spades, clubs, diamonds), and / or any other desired characteristics. The characteristic of at least one card may include a characteristic of two cards (e.g., if two cards have the same number, the same suit, a combined value, etc.).

[0233] An intermediate bet may include, for example, a bet placed after two cards have been dealt to each of the banker and player. Because a traditional punto banco game ends after two cards have been dealt if either the player or banker has an 8 or 9, or if both have a 6 or 7, there are 60 different starting points for the remainder of the punto banco game. A lookup table may be used to identify the odds for each of the 60 possible states for the remainder of the game. A player may then be able to bet on various outcomes of the game (e.g., the banker wins, the player wins, a tie) based on the odds determined from the lookup table.

[0234] An outcome may include a final outcome and / or an intermediate outcome unless otherwise specified. An outcome may include variations of an outcome unless otherwise specified. An outcome of an action or event may include the outcome as to how the action or event took place. For example, the outcome of a hand of baccarat may include the winner and / or loser of the hand. An outcome may also include the components of the hand (e.g., cards, score, order of events, etc.). As another example, the outcome of a bet may include whether the bet was a winning or losing bet, the amount won, the amount lost, etc. A bet outcome may similarly include whether the proposition was a winning proposition, whether the proposition was a losing proposition, the amount won on the bet on the proposition, the amounts that would be won on various possible bets on the proposition, etc.

[0235] It should be understood that in various embodiments, after any number of cards have been dealt to the player and / or banker, additional bets may be made based on the odds at the current state of the game. It should further be understood that a lookup table is but one non-limiting example of how the odds may be determined. In other embodiments, for example, the odds may be determined by calculating the odds and / or by any other method.

[0236] As a more detailed example, if both the Player and Banker have 0 points after their first two cards are dealt, a bettor (sometimes called a punter) can choose to bet on the Player to win at 2.13 odds (corresponding to the odds of winning in this situation plus a 10% house edge). This means that $100, including the bettor's stake, will return $213, representing a profit of $113. The prices in the table below are quoted in this manner. Some rounding may be performed on these prices. The house edge may include a portion of the bet that the casino or other operator of the game expects to receive. The table below lists a range of approximate odds that may result for betting on the Player, the Banker, and a Tie after the first two cards are dealt to the Player and Banker, assuming a 10% house edge. It should be understood that in other embodiments, other odds may be used or calculated based on other desired house edges.

[0237] [Table 1]

[0238] [Table 2]

[0239] [Table 3]

[0240] Some embodiments may include determining odds for intermediate bets. Such odds may be based on the intermediate state of a particular hand and a desired house edge. The house edge may be provided by a game operator (e.g., a casino). In some embodiments, such odds may be provided for use in a game. Such providing may include storing the odds in a lookup, publishing the odds, or making the odds accessible to a gaming device or game operator.

[0241] In some embodiments, an additional betting round may be allowed after a third card is dealt to a player. The odds for such betting may be determined from a lookup table, as in the above example, and / or may be determined in any other desired manner. In other embodiments, a betting round may be allowed before two cards are dealt in this example, such as after one card is dealt to a player.

[0242] In some embodiments, such betting opportunities may be offered to live players at table games, players of electronic games, players of mobile games, players of internet-based games, and / or players of any other type of baccarat game.

[0243] Some embodiments may include publishing available mid-bet odds. For example, a pamphlet may be distributed showing the mid-bet odds for possible game conditions. In other embodiments, the odds may be displayed in a game interface, such as a window or portion of the interface that enables the game to be played.

[0244] Some embodiments may include providing an indication of the results, which may be provided to the player from the client to the server, from the server to the client, or displayed through a game interface or the like.

[0245] In some embodiments, other types of mid-card bets may be allowed, rather than or in addition to mid-card bets based on the same proposition as the initial bet (e.g., who will win the baccarat game). For example, in some embodiments, mid-card bets may be card-specific, hand-specific, spread across various hands, or the like. For example, a player may bet on whether the next card will be red or black, bet on whether the next card will be higher or lower than the previous card, bet on who will win the next ten hands, bet on whether a pair will be dealt, bet on whether the player's point total will be the same in the next two games, bet on whether the next ten cards dealt will have a point total of less than four, or the like.

[0246] In some embodiments, the odds for intermediate bets may not be based on previously dealt cards. For example, in some embodiments, the odds offered in a baccarat game for betting on whether a red card will be dealt may be constant regardless of previously dealt cards. In some embodiments, such constant odds may be used, for example, if the deck is constantly replenished with cards dealt and maintains its initial state. In other embodiments, the odds may not be based on all previously dealt cards, but may be based on only a portion of the cards dealt.

[0247] In some embodiments, if a typical game does not normally allow betting at a particular point, the game may still be stopped to enter one or more intermediate bets or offer possible intermediate bets. Thus, for example, a baccarat game without any intermediate bets will be resolved without any intervention or necessary break, but there may be a break on any card that is dealt, during which various bets are offered / available.

[0248] In some embodiments, proposed or available bets may be randomly or systematically selected from a pool of possible bets. In this manner, bets may be generated systematically and / or randomly (e.g., when "I want to bet red or black" or when dealing a card "higher / lower than the previous card") and may be offered / available in a game when there is no traditional break in gameplay.

[0249] In some embodiments, the play of an electronic card game may have functions distributed across one or more servers and one or more clients. The operations performed by the clients and servers may be distributed in any desired manner that allows for control over security, speed, information gathering, odds, play, game updates, etc.

[0250] In one example embodiment, a client can send a play command to a server to initiate a game (e.g., baccarat) based on input from a player. The play command can include details of betting information (e.g., an initial bet placed by the player). The server can respond to the play command with a play replay. The play replay can include an indication of one or more cards to be dealt, an indication of any bets resolved, an indication of any bets to be offered / available, and / or any other information. The player then selects an action, if any, to perform, and the client sends another play command, and so on. In some embodiments, messages transmitted between the client and the server can be in the form of XML messages and / or any other desired format.

[0251] In some embodiments, when a bet is offered, made available, or made available to a player, the bet is identified in the client and / or server by stored information, hereinafter referred to as a "ticket." The ticket may include a database entry and / or any other desired information storage. The ticket may include the bet type, time of bet, player ID, client ID, bet amount, bet limit, and / or other details of the bet. In some embodiments, the ticket may include a sequence identifier. Each sequence identifier may be associated with a particular hand being played so that multiple hands can be played simultaneously or can be duplicated in some way without confusing the ticket information.

[0252] In some embodiments, when the client receives and presents a representation of a bet to a player, the bet may be presented in the form of, for example, a drop-down box, text, a list, a dialog box, a graphic, part of a game element, and / or in any other desired manner (e.g., as defined by an XML message).

[0253] In some embodiments, after a player places a bet, a ticket identifying the bet may be updated and / or generated (eg, by the client and / or server) so that the bet can be tracked.

[0254] In some embodiments, once the outcome of a bet has been determined, such information may be presented to the player. The determination may be made at the server, and an indication of the determination may be sent to the client (e.g., via a next play command replay, a special message, etc.). It should be understood that this distribution of actions is provided merely as a non-limiting example, and that other embodiments may include any other desired distribution of actions, if any.

[0255] In one example embodiment of a baccarat game, a player may be able to bet on the winner, the next card, whether the player and / or banker have a pair on their first two starting cards, the next card at every stage where a next card can be drawn, and whether the player will draw a third card after the first player card is drawn. In some embodiments, no bets may be required to play the game. In other embodiments, at least one bet may be required to play the game. It should be understood that these possible bets are provided merely as examples, and other embodiments may include any desired set of possible bets.

[0256] The following list of bets can illustrate this example game: Proposition 1 – Picking a Winner: Player / Banker / Tie Odds: Player 1 to 1 Banker 19 vs 20 Thailand 8-1 Proposition 2 - Choose the next card: Red / Black / Club / Diamond / Heart / Spade Odds: Red 1:1 Black 1 vs 1 Club 2 vs 1 Diamond 2 to 1 Heart 2 vs. 1 Spades 2 to 1 Proposition 3 - Will the player draw a third card? Yes / No Odds: Yes 3 to 1 No1 vs 1 Proposition 4 - Who will draw a pair on the first two cards: Player / Banker / Both / Nobody Odds: Player 4 to 1 Banker 5 to 1 10 to 1 One-on-one where no one backs down

[0257] First, propositions 1, 2, and 4 can be submitted to players for betting, as desired. Appropriate tickets can be created to track bets associated with the submission of these propositions. Thus, initial proposition 1 can be associated with a ticket ID of 1, initial proposition 2 can be associated with a ticket ID of 2, and initial proposition 4 can be associated with a ticket ID of 3.

[0258] Below can be described an example of how a hand is played and the actions that occur between an example client and an example server. It should be understood that the described set of actions may be separated in any way between the client and server, may not be separated at all, and / or may not include a client and / or server. 1. The player places an initial bet of $5 on the player being dealt a pair (ticket 3). Client->Server Bet 5 on ticket 3, result player Draw a card 2. The first player card, the 5 of hearts, is drawn. The player is offered to bet on the next card (ticket 4) and whether the player will draw a third card (ticket 5). Server -> Client The player receives the 5 of hearts Proposition 2, not requested, ticket ID 4 Proposition 3, not requested, ticket ID 5 3. A player bets $25 that the next card will be red (ticket 4) and $50 that the player will draw a third card (ticket 5). Client->Server Bet 25 on ticket 4, result red Bet 50 on ticket 5, result Yes Draw a card 4. The banker receives the 5 of spades. Since this is not a red card, ticket 4 is resolved with no return. The player is again offered the next card bet (as ticket 6). Server -> Client Banker receives the 5 of spades Ticket 4 result 0, result Black / Spade Proposition 2, not requested, ticket ID 6 5. The player again bets $25 that the next card will be red (ticket 6). Client->Server Bet 25 on ticket 6, result red Draw a card 6. The player receives the King of Spades. As a result, there is no return on the next card bet (ticket 6), a return of $100 on the player's bet that they will draw a third card (which totals 5, so the player hits) (ticket 5), and no return on the player's bet that their first two cards will be a pair (ticket 3). The player is again offered the next card bet (ticket 7). Server -> Client The player receives the King of Spades Result for ticket 6 is 0, result is Black / Spade Result for ticket 5 is 100, result is Yes The result for ticket 3 is 0, so no one draws. Proposition 2, not requested, ticket ID 7 7. The player chooses to forgo all bets and continues playing. Client->Server Draw a card (choose not to bet again) 8. The banker receives the 3 of clubs and the client is offered the next card bet (ticket 8). Server -> Client Banker receives the 3 of clubs Proposition 2, not requested, ticket ID 8 9. The player chooses to forgo all bets and continues playing the game. Client->Server Draw a card 10. The Player receives a 2 of spades. The Player total is 7. The Banker total is 5. The Player's third card is a 2, giving the Banker a total of 5, so the Banker stands. The game ends. Server -> Client The player receives the two of spades Game End

[0259] It should be understood that the example games and embodiments are provided as non-limiting examples only. Other embodiments may include other types of bets offered at other times. Other embodiments may include games other than baccarat and baccarat variants.

[0260] XXII. Additional Embodiments The following are further example embodiments. A. A system for playing baccarat, a processor; a memory storing a plurality of instructions; the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the system to: providing an indication of at least one first card in a baccarat hand; determining betting odds based at least in part on at least one first card, where the bet is based at least in part on at least one second card in the baccarat hand; receiving a bet indication for the bet; providing an indication of at least one second card; determining an outcome of the bet based at least in part on the at least one second card; Providing outcome metrics and A system that executes the following.

[0261] A.1 The system of claim A, wherein the bet includes a bet based on characteristics of at least one second card.

[0262] A.1.1 The system of claim A, wherein the features include at least one of a point value, a number, and a suit.

[0263] A.2 The system of claim A, wherein the bet includes a bet based on characteristics of at least one of a banker's card in a hand of baccarat and a player's card in a hand of baccarat.

[0264] A.2.1 The system of claim A, wherein the features include at least one of a point value, a number, and a suit.

[0265] A.3 The system of claim A, wherein the bet includes a bet based on the outcome of a hand of baccarat.

[0266] A.4 The system of claim A, wherein the at least one first card comprises at least one card dealt to at least one of a banker in a hand of baccarat and a player in a hand of baccarat.

[0267] A.5 The system of claim A, wherein determining the odds for a bet includes referencing a lookup table in which the odds are stored.

[0268] A.6 The system of claim A, wherein providing the indicator includes providing the indicator to the game client, and receiving the indicator includes receiving the indicator from the game client.

[0269] A.7 The system of claim A, wherein at least one of the indicators includes an XML message.

[0270] A.8 The system of claim A, wherein the outcome includes at least one of an amount won on the bet, an amount lost on the bet, whether the bet is a winning bet, and whether the bet is a losing bet.

[0271] B. Receive an indication of the house edge; and determining odds for at least one bet on the baccarat hand corresponding to a house edge and a first state of the baccarat hand including at least one first dealt card, wherein the outcome of the at least one bet is based on a second state of the baccarat hand including at least one second dealt card; Providing an indication of odds; A method comprising:

[0272] B.1 The method of claim B, wherein the outcome of the bet is based on characteristics of at least one second dealt card.

[0273] B.1.1 The method of claim B, wherein the at least one second dealt card comprises at least one of a card dealt to a banker in a hand of baccarat and a card dealt to a player in a hand of baccarat.

[0274] B.1.2 The method of claim B.1, wherein the features include at least one of a point value, a number, and a suit.

[0275] B.2 The method of claim B, wherein the outcome of the bet is based on the outcome of a hand of baccarat.

[0276] B.3 The method of claim B, wherein the odds include an amount won on a winning bet.

[0277] B.4 The method of claim B, further comprising storing an indication of the odds for access by the gaming device.

[0278] B.5 The method of claim B, in which storing the index of odds includes storing the index of odds in a lookup table.

[0279] B.6 The method of claim B, wherein the second state includes at least one more dealt card than the first state.

[0280] C. A machine-readable medium having stored thereon a plurality of instructions configured to cause a computer system to perform the method of claim B.

[0281] D. A system for playing baccarat, comprising: a processor; a memory storing a plurality of instructions; the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the system to: providing an indication of a first state of the baccarat hand, where the first state includes at least one dealt card; receiving an indication of at least one second state of the baccarat hand, where betting odds are based at least in part on the first state; providing an indication of at least one second condition; Providing an indication of the outcome of a bet; A system that executes the following.

[0282] D.1 The system of claim D, wherein the bet includes a bet based on characteristics of at least one second card.

[0283] D.1.1 The system of claim D, wherein the features include at least one of a point value, a number, and a suit.

[0284] D.2 The system of claim D, wherein the bet includes a bet based on characteristics of at least one of a banker's card in a hand of baccarat and a player's card in a hand of baccarat.

[0285] D.2.1 The system of claim D.2, wherein the features include at least one of a point value, a number, and a suit.

[0286] D.3 The system of claim D, wherein the bet includes a bet based on the outcome of a hand of baccarat.

[0287] D.4 The system of claim D, wherein the at least one first card comprises at least one card dealt to at least one of a banker in a hand of baccarat and a player in a hand of baccarat.

[0288] D.5 The system of claim D, wherein providing the indication includes displaying information to a player of the hand of baccarat, and receiving the indication includes receiving information from a player of the hand of baccarat.

[0289] D.6 The system of claim D, wherein the outcome includes at least one of an amount won on the bet, an amount lost on the bet, whether the bet is a winning bet, and whether the bet is a losing bet.

[0290] D.7 The system of claim D, wherein the instructions are further configured to cause the system to provide an indication of the bet to the game server and receive an indication of the outcome from the game server.

[0291] D.8 The system of claim D, wherein the second state includes at least one more card dealt than the first state.

[0292] E. A method of playing baccarat, comprising: Betting on a baccarat game using the system of claim D. A method comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0293] 4 tables 6 Player Position 8 Smart card reading supply shoe 10 Dealer hand position sensor 12 Smart Card Read Disposal Rack 14, 18 Output 16 output ports 40-1~40-n player units 41 Communication Systems 42 Management Units 43 Player Register 45 Game Units 46-1~46-6 Player Data Unit 47 Dealer Unit 48 Control Unit 49 Random Dealing Units

Claims

1. An image processing device arranged and configured to image activities or events related to the playing of a card game at a physical table while at least one player is playing the card game at said physical table; at least a processor configured to be communicatively coupled to the image processing device; Equipped with The processor: receiving at least one signal from the image processing device during play of the card game, the image processing device being configured to image playing cards as cards are removed from the deck and discarded during play of the card game, the at least one signal being based on imaging by the image processing device during play of the card game, the at least one signal being indicative of each card discarded during play of the card game and at least one first card dealt in the card game after a first bet on the card game has been made; providing, based on the at least one signal, an electronic indication to a user in a graphical user interface of the mobile electronic device over a communications network indicating that the at least one first card has been dealt; receiving a second indication of the house edge; receiving, via the communications network from the graphical user interface of the mobile electronic device, an indication of a bet for the card game after receiving the second indication of the house edge; in response to receiving an indication of the bet, enter information into a first electronic ticket stored in an electronic database tracking the bet, and display an indication of the at least one first card dealt in the card game on the graphical user interface of the mobile electronic device via the communications network; determining, in real time during the card game, odds that maintain the house edge on a second bet in the card game, the second bet being systematically generated from a group of possible bets and becoming available after the at least one first card is dealt at a time other than a time when bets are permitted in the card game, the odds being determined based only on a portion of the cards dealt as indicated by the at least one signal; In response to determining the odds, transmitting an indication of the odds over the communications network to a portion of the interface of the graphical user interface of the mobile electronic device on which the card game is played; receiving, via the communications network, an indication of the second bet from the graphical user interface of the mobile electronic device of the user; determining an outcome of the second bet based at least in part on a second signal from the image processing device, the second signal being based on imaging by the image processing device during play of the card game and indicating at least one second card dealt in the card game; updating the first electronic ticket to reflect the results; determining a second outcome of the second bet based at least in part on the at least one second card; displaying an indication of each of the results and the second results on the graphical user interface of the mobile electronic device via the communications network. configured to control system.

2. The system described in claim 1, wherein the second bet is a bet based on characteristics of the at least one second card, and the at least one second card is a single card.

3. The system described in claim 2, wherein the characteristics include at least one of a point value, a number, and a suit.

4. The system described in claim 1, wherein the second bet is a bet based on the characteristics of at least one of a single card of the banker in a baccarat game and a single card of the player in a baccarat game.

5. The system described in claim 4, wherein the characteristics include at least one of a point value, a number, and a suit.

6. The system described in claim 1, wherein the second bet includes a bet based on the outcome of a baccarat game.

7. The system described in claim 1, wherein the at least one first card includes at least one card dealt to at least one of a banker in a baccarat game and a player in a baccarat game.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein determining the odds for the second bet includes referencing a lookup table in which multiple possible odds for the second bet are stored and keyed to the current state of the card game.

9. The system described in claim 1, wherein providing the indicator includes providing the indicator to a game client, and receiving the second indicator includes receiving the second indicator from the game client.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the electronic indicator of the at least one first card dealt and the second indicator comprises an XML message.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the results include at least one of the amount won on the second bet, the amount lost on the second bet, whether the second bet is a winning bet, or whether the second bet is a losing bet.

Images