Tabletop games
The tabletop game device with a base member, rod members, and net members enhances the soccer simulation, addressing the limitations of existing games by providing a realistic and enjoyable soccer-like experience with simplified rules.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2025514055
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-09-12
- Filing Date
- 2023-09-11
- Publication Date
- 2025-09-09
AI Technical Summary
Existing tabletop soccer games lack effective mechanics to replicate the experience of a soccer match, often having complicated rules and failing to simulate physical elements of the game, hindering player enjoyment.
A tabletop game device with a rectangular base member, rod members, wall members, and net members to simulate a soccer field, along with a ball striking member and score-keeping elements, providing a realistic soccer-like experience.
The device effectively replicates a soccer match, offering a realistic and enjoyable gameplay experience with simplified rules and improved simulation of physical elements.
Smart Images
Figure 2025529979000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present invention relates generally to games and gaming devices, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to tabletop games configured to replicate the experience of a soccer game, providing key elements of the soccer experience, such as, but not limited to, strategic shot decisions and shot variety. [Background technology]
[0002] As known in the art, soccer is the world's most popular sport. It is estimated that approximately 300 million people participate in soccer worldwide. Soccer participation ranges from casual games between friends to professional soccer leagues to global competitions between nations, such as, but not limited to, the World Cup. While many people enjoy playing actual soccer matches, many are unable to play or would like to challenge themselves with games that replicate elements of soccer. Tabletop games are well known in the art and can provide enjoyment for those who participate. Traditional tabletop games are convenient and very easy to deploy and store. These games cover a wide range of sports and interests, including, but not limited to, sports such as baseball, football, and soccer. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0003] While tabletop soccer games are known in the art, there are many deficiencies in what they offer. By way of example and not limitation, existing tabletop soccer games often have ineffective mechanics and fail to replicate the experience of a soccer field. Furthermore, existing games often have overly complicated rules and methods of play that ultimately hinder a player's ability to play and enjoy the game. Furthermore, many existing tabletop games lack mechanics that adequately simulate some of the physical elements of the game.
[0004] It is contemplated within the scope of the present invention to provide a tabletop game configured to replicate the play of the game of soccer, the structure and method of play of the present invention providing a realistic soccer-like experience. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a tabletop game device configured to replicate a soccer match, the tabletop game device including a rectangular base member having a top surface and being flat.
[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a soccer game apparatus configured to be placed on a suitable horizontal support surface, such as a table, in which the base member of the present invention includes a cover.
[0007] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a tabletop gaming apparatus configured to replicate a soccer match, wherein the base member has a plurality of openings formed on an upper surface thereof, the openings being arranged in a specific pattern.
[0008] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a soccer game apparatus that further includes a plurality of rod members and is configured to be placed on a suitable horizontal support surface such as a table, with the plurality of rod members configured to be inserted into a plurality of openings, but is not limited thereto.
[0009] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a tabletop gaming apparatus configured to replicate a soccer match, wherein the base member has wall members attached thereto, the wall members being positioned around the periphery of the base member and extending vertically upward therefrom.
[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a soccer game apparatus configured to be placed on a suitable horizontal support surface such as a table, wherein the wall members include opposing end wall members defining a void space located adjacent a midpoint of the end wall members.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a tabletop gaming apparatus configured to replicate the game of soccer, wherein each of the opposing end wall members further includes a net member operably coupled to a void formed at a midpoint of each end wall member.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a soccer game apparatus configured to be placed on a suitable horizontal support surface such as, but not limited to, a table, which further includes score-keeping elements on the upper edges of the wall members of the present invention.
[0013] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a tabletop gaming apparatus configured to replicate a soccer match, the apparatus further comprising a ball striking member operable to be used to strike a provided ball member.
[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a soccer game apparatus configured to be placed on a suitable horizontal support surface, such as, but not limited to, a table, wherein the ball-striking member includes first and second ends that are wider than the midpoint.
[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a tabletop gaming device configured to replicate a soccer match, wherein a cover element superimposed on the top surface of a base member is made from a fiber material.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a soccer game apparatus configured to be placed on a suitable horizontal support surface such as, but not limited to, a table, wherein the cover member further includes indicia thereon that replicate soccer field markings.
[0017] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be borne in mind that the drawings are illustrative only. Modifications are considered a part of this invention which is limited only by the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A top perspective view of the present invention [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the ball striking member and ball member of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] A more complete understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reference to the following detailed description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[0020] Referring now to the drawings presented herein, in which the various elements depicted therein are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which like elements are referred to by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings and figures, there is shown a tabletop game 100 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
[0021] Embodiments of the present invention are discussed herein with reference to the drawings presented herewith. Those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description herein with respect to these figures is for illustrative purposes, and that alternative embodiments are reasonable and contemplated within the scope of the present invention. By way of example, and not limitation, those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings of the present invention, will recognize multiple alternative suitable approaches, depending on the needs of a particular application, for implementing the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the functionality of the specific implementation options in the embodiments described herein. Various modifications and embodiments are within the scope of the present invention.
[0022] It should be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific methodology, materials, uses, and applications described herein, as these may vary. Furthermore, it should be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that, as used in this specification and claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and the like include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to "an element" is a reference to one or more elements and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. All combinations used should be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Accordingly, the word "or" should be understood as having the logical definition of "or," rather than the logical definition of "exclusive or," unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Structures described herein should also be understood to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. Language that may be interpreted as approximating should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0023] References to "one embodiment," "embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," etc. may indicate that the embodiment of the invention so described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but that not all embodiments necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic.
[0024] Referring now to the drawings submitted as part of this specification, a tabletop game 100 includes a base member 10. In a preferred embodiment, the base member 10 is rectangular in shape having a first end 11 and a second end 12 and is fabricated from a lightweight, rigid material such as, but not limited to, plastic or wood. The base member 10 includes a top surface 14 having a cover 15 superimposed thereon. In a preferred embodiment, the cover 15 is fabricated from a fibrous material to simulate the turf of a soccer field. The cover 15 includes indicia 20, which are utilized to replicate areas of a soccer field, such as, but not limited to, the midpoint of the field or the goalkeeper zone. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the cover 15 can have a variety of indicia 20 marking alternate field zones, team names, or marketing messages. It should further be understood that within the scope of the present invention, base member 10 may be provided in alternative sizes, with the size of base member 10 not being limited, but preferably being sized so as to be appropriately sized to be placed on a horizontal support surface such as a tabletop.
[0025] The base member 10 includes a plurality of openings 25, which are formed in the base member 10 using any suitable technique. Rod members 30 are journaled in the plurality of openings 25. The rod members 30 are rod-shaped, extend upward from the openings 25, and are fabricated from a lightweight, rigid material, such as, but not limited to, metal, wood, or plastic. The rod members 30 are fabricated at an appropriate height to provide sufficient obstacles for the ball member 70 during play of the tabletop game 100, as further described herein. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the rod members 30 can be provided at alternating heights and operable to represent players on a soccer field. It should be understood that numerous alternative arrangements of the rows of rod members 30 can be used within the scope of the present invention. It is further contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the rod members 30 deployed on the base member 10 can be of alternating heights or all have the same height. Although a particular pattern of apertures 25 and rod members 30 is shown herein, it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the base member 10 may have as few as two apertures 25 and rod members 30, or multiple apertures 25 and rod members 30 arranged in an alternating pattern. It should be understood that within the scope of the present invention, the rod members 30 are removably attached to the apertures 25 using any suitable technique.
[0026] The base member 10 further includes a wall member 40 operatively coupled thereto and extending around the periphery of the base member 10. The wall member 40 is fabricated from a lightweight, rigid material, such as, but not limited to, wood or plastic. The wall member 40 is perpendicular to the base member 10 and extends upwardly therefrom and is configured to ensure that the ball member 70 remains on the upper surface 14 of the base member 10 during play of the tabletop game 100. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the wall member 40 can be provided in alternative heights and can also be configured to be removably attached to the base member 10 to facilitate storage of the tabletop game 100 when not in use. It is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the wall member 40 can have indicia, such as marketing indicia, on its surface.
[0027] The wall member 40 includes a first end wall member 45 proximate the first end 11 and a second end wall member 50 proximate the second end 12. The first end wall member 45 includes a gap 46, which is located approximately at the midpoint of the first end wall member 45. A first net member 47 is operably coupled to the gap 46. The gap 46 and the first net member 47 combine to simulate a goal on a soccer field. The first net member 47 includes a mesh material 48 and a support member 49 operably coupled thereto to capture a ball member 70 after the ball member 70 passes through the gap 46 formed in the first end wall member 45. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the support member 49 may be provided in alternative configurations. Additionally, it should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the base member 10 may extend beyond the first end wall member 50 to support the first net member 47 and a bottom therefor. It is further contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the gap 46 may be provided in other sizes. It is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the additional side wall member may extend beyond the first end wall member 45 and the second end wall member 50, with an additional wall member therebetween that is parallel to the first end wall member 45 and the second end wall member 50, forming a retention space configured to receive and retain a ball member therein. In this embodiment, the base member 10 extends to the additional wall member behind the first end wall member 45 and the second end wall member 50.
[0028] The second end wall member 50 includes a second void 56, which is located approximately at the midpoint of the second end wall member 50. A second net member 57 is operably coupled to the second void 56. The second void 56 and the second net member 57 combine to simulate a goal on a soccer field. The second net member 57 includes a mesh material 58 and a support member 59 operably coupled thereto to capture a ball member 70 after the ball member 70 passes through the second void 56 formed in the second end wall member 50. As with the first net member 47, it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the second net member 57 may include alternative placements of the support member 59, and that a portion of or all of the base member 10 may extend beyond the second end wall member 50. It should be further understood that the second void 56 may be provided in other sizes within the scope of the present invention.
[0029] The first end wall member 45 further includes a first scorekeeping element 60 operably coupled thereto. The first scorekeeping element 60 includes a number member 61 configured to have indicia to facilitate counting of points scored by a player of the tabletop game 100. In a preferred embodiment, the number member 61 slidably traverses along the top edge of the first end wall member 45. However, it should be understood that the first scorekeeping element 60 can be configured in numerous alternative ways, including, but not limited to, alternative mechanical or digital elements, within the scope of the present invention. The tabletop game 100 further includes a second scorekeeping element 65. The second scorekeeping element 65 includes a number member 66 and is configured similarly to the first scorekeeping element 60. The second scorekeeping element 65 is configured to track the score of a second player of the tabletop game 100. Although a first scorekeeping element 60 and a second scorekeeping element 65 are disclosed herein, it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the tabletop game 100 may have only one scorekeeping element movably coupled to any portion of the wall member 40.
[0030] Referring now to FIG. 3 , which is incorporated herein by reference, a ball striking member 80 is illustrated. The ball striking member 80 is configured to facilitate a user's striking of the ball member 70 during play of the tabletop game 100. The ball striking member 80 includes a first end 81 and a second end 82 having a midpoint 83 therebetween. The ball striking member 80 is formed such that the widths of the first end 81 and the second end 82 are greater than the width at the midpoint 83. A preferred embodiment of the ball striking member 80 further includes the first end 81 and the second end 82 having a rounded shape. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the ball striking member 80 may be formed in alternative shapes and sizes to achieve the desired objectives discussed herein. It is further contemplated within the scope of the present invention that at least a portion of the ball striking member 80 may have a rubber coating overlaid thereon to enhance engagement with the player.
[0031] In use, in the tabletop game 100, a player places the ball member 70 at the center mark 98 of the central circle 96. The player then strategically selects the direction and type of shot they wish to navigate through the series of rod members 30 to score a goal by placing the ball member 70 into the opposing player's net member (either the first net member 47 or the second net member 57). Once determined, the player executes the shot by striking the ball member 70 with the ball-striking member 80. If a player fails to score a goal by placing the ball member 70 into the opposing player's net member, it becomes the other player's turn to attempt to score at the first player's net member (the other of the first net member 47 and the second net member 57) from the position where the ball member 70 stopped in the previous shot. Each player alternates in this manner after each turn to score a goal. Once a goal is scored, the ball member 70 is placed on the center mark 98 to resume play with the player who allowed the goal. The match continues until one player reaches a predetermined number of goals and is declared the winner.
[0032] The rules of the tabletop game 100 may be modified by the player. For example, if a player accidentally hits the ball member 70 into their own net member (47, 57) on a bounce or mis-shot, it may be ruled a score for the opposing player or a missed shot (no point). Similarly, the tabletop game 100 can accommodate more than two players by forming teams and allowing players on a particular team to take turns shooting.
[0033] In the foregoing detailed description, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, and certain variations thereof, have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It is to be understood that other suitable embodiments may be utilized and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. The description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the foregoing description is not intended to be limited to the particular forms described herein, but on the contrary, is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may reasonably be included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1. a base member, the base member being planar, the base member having a first end and a second end, the base member having a top surface; at least two openings formed in two opposing halves of the top surface of the base member; at least two rod members, the at least two rod members being inserted into the at least two openings, the at least two rod members being perpendicular to the base member and extending upward from the at least two openings; a wall member disposed around a periphery of the base member, the wall member being perpendicular to the base member and extending upwardly therefrom, the wall member including a first end wall member adjacent the first end of the base member, the wall member further including a second end wall member adjacent the second end of the base member, the first end wall member having a gap at a midpoint thereof, and the second end wall member having a gap adjacent the midpoint thereof; at least one ball striking member configured to strike a ball member resting on an upper surface of the base member; Including, Game device.
2. Further comprising a cover; the cover is placed on the top surface of the base member; The cover is made of a fiber material; the cover having indicia thereon; The markings represent the markings of a soccer field.
2. The game device according to claim 1.
3. further comprising a first net member; the first net member is operably coupled to the cavity in the first end wall member; the first net member having a portion of the base member extending thereunder; 3. The game device according to claim 2.
4. further comprising a second net member; the second net member is operably coupled to the void in the second end wall member; the second net member having a portion of the base member extending thereunder; the second net member comprises a mesh material supported by at least one support member; 4. The game device according to claim 3.
5. the at least one ball striking member includes a first end and a second end; the first end and the second end of the at least one ball striking member have a width greater than a width at a midpoint of the at least one ball striking member; 5. The game device according to claim 4.
6. further comprising at least one score-keeping element; the at least one score-retaining element is movably coupled to an upper edge of the wall member; 6. The game device according to claim 5.
7. the first net member further comprises a mesh material supported by at least one support member; 7. The game device according to claim 6.
8. further comprising a ball member; The gaming device of claim 7 , wherein the ball member is operatively acted upon by the at least one ball striking member.
9. 1. A tabletop gaming device operable to accommodate at least two players, comprising: a base member, the base member being planar, the base member having a first end and a second end, the base member having a top surface, the top surface having a cover, the cover being made of fabric, the cover having indicia imprinted thereon, the indicia resembling playing field markings on a soccer field; a plurality of openings formed in two opposing halves of the top surface of the base member; a plurality of rod members inserted into the plurality of openings, the plurality of rod members perpendicular to the base member and extending upward from the plurality of openings; a wall member disposed around a periphery of the base member, the wall member including opposing side wall members perpendicular to the base member and extending upwardly therefrom, the wall member including a first end wall member adjacent the first end of the base member, the wall member further including a second end wall member adjacent the second end of the base member, the first end wall member having a gap at a midpoint thereof, the second end wall member having a gap adjacent the midpoint thereof, the side wall members having portions extending beyond the first and second end wall members, the table top game apparatus further including wall segments formed by the portions of the side wall members, creating a retention space behind the gap in the first end wall member and creating the gap in the second end wall member; at least one ball striking member configured to strike a ball member resting on an upper surface of the base member; A tabletop gaming device comprising:
10. The at least one ball striking member is planar and has rounded first and second ends, the at least one ball striking member has equal widths at the first and second ends, the at least one ball striking member has a midpoint, and the midpoint has a width that is smaller than the widths of the first and second ends of the at least one ball striking member. The tabletop game device according to claim 9.
11. The plurality of rod members are arranged in a row, the rows of rod members are similar on two opposing halves of the base member; The tabletop game device according to claim 10.
12. further comprising at least one score-keeping element; the at least one score-retaining element is movably coupled to an upper edge of the wall member; The tabletop game device according to claim 11.
13. The wall member is detachably attached to the base member. The tabletop game device according to claim 12.
14. further comprising a ball member; the ball member is operatively actuated by the at least one ball striking member; The tabletop game device according to claim 13.
15. a ball member disposed on a base member, the base member being planar and having a first end and a second end; The base member is The top surface and at least two openings formed in two opposing halves of the top surface of the base member; at least two rod members, the at least two rod members being inserted into the at least two openings, the at least two rod members being perpendicular to the base member and extending upward from the at least two openings; a wall member disposed around a periphery of the base member, the wall member being perpendicular to the base member and extending upwardly from the base member, the wall member including a first end wall member adjacent the first end of the base member, the wall member further including a second end wall member adjacent the second end of the base member, the first end wall member having a gap at a midpoint thereof, and the second end wall member having a gap adjacent the midpoint thereof; Including, striking the ball member with a ball striking member so that the ball striking member is struck into one of the gaps between the first end wall member and the second end wall member; How to play tabletop games.
16. further comprising restricting the striking of the ball member in accordance with one or more rules of soccer; Further comprising a cover; the cover is placed on the top surface of the base member; The cover is made of a fiber material; the cover having indicia thereon; The indicia represent marks on a soccer field.
16. The method of claim 15.