Multi-display computer terminal system

Abstract

To alleviate some of drawbacks of traditional systems for playing games.SOLUTION: Provided is an apparatus, comprising: a display device; and at least one processor which: displays a graphical user interface on the display device; receives information for identifying a second player in a casino; in response to the reception of the information for identifying the second player, associates the information for identifying the second player with a control section on the graphical user interface; determines that the control section is activated; in response to the determination that the control section is activated, displays the information about the second player on the display device; receives data representing the betting of a game played by the second player; and displays real-time information about the game played by the second player on the display device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Background Art

[0001] Chance games have gained wide popularity. Traditional systems for playing these games have certain drawbacks. Systems implemented by computers may mitigate these drawbacks.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0002] Summary According to some embodiments, chance games may be played on a computer system.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0003]

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[0004] Reconstruction of Events Using Graphics In various embodiments, an event may occur out of sight of interested players. The event may have occurred at a location separate from where the group of interested parties is located. The event may have occurred before the group of interested parties arrived at the location where the event occurred. The event may have been missed because the group of interested parties was looking elsewhere or not paying attention. According to various embodiments, one or more details of an event are recorded. The details can be recorded using recording devices such as cameras, microphones, scanners, or other recording devices. For example, in a game, a card shuffler may include a scanner for reading the card images to be dealt. The details are recorded in a network-connected environment and made available to one or more other computing devices connected to the network. The details may then be accessed by one or more computing devices.

[0005] In various embodiments, the details of the recorded event may be used to reconstruct the event. For example, an image processing algorithm may determine the rank and suit of the cards dealt based on the acquired images of the cards. The details of the event may be rendered by a server that stores the details, or by any computing device.

[0006] After the details of the event are rendered, a performance of the event is made. For example, a performance of the event by a comic may be made based on the stored details of the event. For example, the depiction of the cards may be generated by a computer.

[0007] The performance of the event may then be presented to people. The performance may be in the form of video, audio, tactile, or any other form. In various embodiments, the performance of the executed game may be presented to people who are away from the game or who were not watching when the performance was made. Such people include secondary players who bet on the outcome of the game without directly participating in the game themselves, or multiple players.

[0008] In various embodiments, the details of the event are not presented. Rather, the details of the event are provided as they were recorded. For example, a video of the event may be presented.

[0009] Presentation of Information to a Player at a Table In various embodiments, players sit shoulder to shoulder with other players and generally have little space to place cash, game chips, food, drinks, or other items. Further, they have little space to view desired information such as information about other players, information about game strategies, or information not related to the game. According to various embodiments, a terminal having multiple screens enables a player to view a large number of information feeds and many different types of information. The desk area of the terminal provides a space for the player to place personal belongings or game items. The player can also participate in multiple games on the terminal in various embodiments. Thus, the terminal helps relieve the spatial constraints found in conventional game tables.

[0010] Using the terminal, a first player can call up information about a second player. The first player can call up information indicating how many times the second player has won or lost within a given time period. The first player can call up information indicating what strategies the second player has used. The first player can call up information indicating the amount gained or lost by the second player. The first player can call up any other information about the second player. The first player can view multiple different information such as different statistics about the second player or predetermined statistics about many other different players (e.g., the amount gained by each of ten other different players).

[0011] The terminal may include various input devices such as a keyboard, computer mouse, telephone pad, camera, and microphone, as well as other input devices. A player can use the input device to indicate the player's intention to view information about other players, information about any of the games being played by that player, or other information.

[0012] People playing games in different locations of the casino can see everyone, server-based games In various embodiments, people participating in a mutual event may not be able to gather in the same physical location. For example, people may have physical weaknesses that prevent them from easily moving from one place to another. For example, in a casino, even if players wish to play the same poker game, it may be impossible or undesirable for all of them to move to the same area of the casino. Thus, in various embodiments, each of a plurality of players may go to their own terminal. The terminal may include a number of display screens. Each individual display screen may display an image of other players participating in the same poker game. Each individual terminal may include a camera. The camera may capture an image of the player of the terminal. The image acquired by the camera may be transmitted to a central server. The server may similarly transmit the image from the camera to the terminals of other players. The terminal of another player receives the image, and this image may be displayed on one of the display screens of the terminal. In this way, a player can sit at the terminal and play the game facing the players on other terminals. The player may look at each of the other players on one of the display screens of their own terminal. In various embodiments, players may have a voice link with each other. Each individual player's terminal may include a microphone. Words spoken towards the microphone may be captured, sent to the central server, and transferred to other terminals. Another terminal may broadcast the words spoken to the player at the terminal. In this way, when a first player says something like "bet" or "raise", another player then listens to the words spoken on another terminal. Thus, in various embodiments, despite being away from other players, a player may be able to participate in a game that was conventionally played individually.

[0013] Simultaneous play of multiple games In various embodiments, a terminal having multiple screens (e.g., six screens) enables a player to participate in multiple games simultaneously. Conventionally, for a player of a gaming device such as a slot machine, the space on the display screen for viewing the game actions was limited. The terminals according to various embodiments provide many display screens. The display screens may spread in a semi-circular arc in front of the player. Thus, the player has sufficient space to view multiple games simultaneously.

[0014] In a live game, one cannot play with the same deck as another player, but can play against the dealer's cards. In various embodiments, the device combines information from a live game conducted on a table with additional information to enable the conduct of a game by another player not at the table. The information acquisition device is near the table. For example, a camera photographs the game on the table. Details of the game play are acquired by the information acquisition device. The details are communicated to a central server. The details are then interpreted to determine important game information such as which cards were dealt or what cards are in the dealer's hand. Additional information is then generated. This additional information may include new cards, dice rolls, marks, and other game results or scores. The additional information may be used together with the information from the live game to create a new game or gaming experience for the players at the terminal. The computer processor of the terminal generates cards for the player. The processor uses a random number generator to select, for example, the cards to be distributed to the player. The player's win or loss is determined based on the generated additional information and the important information from the live game. For example, the player may receive a blackjack hand generated by the processor of his terminal. The player's hand may then be compared to the dealer's hand from the live blackjack game. This comparison is performed by the processor of the terminal using the standard rules of blackjack.

[0015] Guide for Understanding this Application Terms Unless otherwise specified, the term "product" means any manufactured, machined, and / or assembled product of any machine or material.

[0016] Unless otherwise specified, the term "process" means any process, algorithm, method, etc.

[0017] Each individual process (regardless of what it is called, such as a method, algorithm, or otherwise) inherently includes one or more steps. Thus, references to a "step" or "steps" of a process have a proper antecedent basis only in the mere recitation of the term "process" or a similar term. In this way, references to a "step" or "steps" of a process in a claim have a sufficient antecedent basis. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "invention" and similar terms mean "one or more inventions disclosed in this application".

[0018] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "embodiments", "the embodiments", "the embodiments", "one of more embodiments", "some embodiments", "certain embodiments", "one embodiment", "another embodiment", and similar terms mean "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the disclosed invention(s)".

[0019] Unless otherwise specified, the term "variant" of an invention means an embodiment of the invention.

[0020] References to "other embodiments" in the description of an embodiment do not imply that the referenced embodiment is mutually exclusive with other embodiments (e.g., embodiments described before the referenced embodiment).

[0021] The terms “including,” “comprising,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless otherwise specified.

[0022] The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” mean “one or more” unless otherwise specified.

[0023] The term “plurality” means “two or more” unless otherwise specified.

[0024] The term “herein” means “in this application including all that is incorporated by reference” unless otherwise specified.

[0025] The term “at least one of” means, unless otherwise specified, when such phrase modifies a plurality of items (such as a list of items), all combinations of one or more of those items. For example, the phrase “mechanical device, automobile, and wheel” means (i) a mechanical device, (ii) an automobile, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a mechanical device and an automobile, (v) a mechanical device and a wheel, (vi) an automobile and a wheel, or (vii) any of a mechanical device, an automobile, and a wheel. When the phrase “at least one of” modifies a plurality of items, it does not mean “each individual one” of the plurality of items.

[0026] Numeric terms such as “one,” “two,” etc., when used as a cardinal number indicating the quantity of something (e.g., one mechanical device, two mechanical devices), mean the quantity indicated by the number, but not necessarily at least the quantity indicated by the number. For example, the phrase “one mechanical device” does not mean “at least one mechanical device,” and thus the phrase “one mechanical device” does not cover, for example, two mechanical devices.

[0027] Unless otherwise specified, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on". In other words, the phrase "based on" means both "based only on" and "based at least on". The phrase "based at least on" is the same as "based at least in part on".

[0028] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "represent" and similar terms are not limiting. For example, unless otherwise specified, "represent" does not mean "represent only". In other words, the phrase "the data represents a credit card number" means both "the data represents only the credit card number" and "the data represents the credit card number and the data also represents other things".

[0029] Here, the term "whereby" only accepts a clause or other set of words that express an intended result, purpose, or outcome for something that has been explicitly listed beforehand. Thus, when "whereby" is used in a claim, the clause or other words that "whereby" modifies do not further specifically limit the claim, nor do they otherwise restrict the meaning or scope of the claim.

[0030] The terms "e.g." and similar terms mean "for example" and do not limit the terms or phrases they explain. For example, in the sentence "A computer sends data (e.g., instructions, data structures) over the Internet", the term "e.g." explains that "instructions" is an example of "data" that the computer may send over the Internet, and "data structures" is also an example of "data" that the computer may send over the Internet. However, both "instructions" and "data structures" are only examples of "data", and things other than "instructions" and "data structures" can also be "data".

[0031] The term "respective" and similar terms mean "treated individually". Thus, if two or more things have "respective" characteristics, each of those individual things has its own characteristic, and these characteristics may or may not be different from each other. For example, the phrase "each of the two machines has its respective function" means that the first machine has a function and the second machine also has a function. The characteristics of the first machine may or may not be the same as the characteristics of the second machine.

[0032] The term "i.e." and similar terms indicate "that is" and qualify the term or phrase it explains. For example, in the sentence "The computer sends data (i.e. instructions) over the Internet", the term "i.e." explains that "instructions" are the "data" that the computer sends over the Internet.

[0033] All numerical ranges include the integers and fractions having the range. For example, the range "from 1 to 10" must be interpreted as specifically including the integers and non-integers (e.g., 1.1, 1.2,... 1.9) between 1 and 10 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4,... 9).

[0034] When two or more terms or phrases are synonymous (e.g., for an explicit statement that the terms or phrases are synonymous), it does not mean that an example of one such term / phrase must have a different meaning from an example of the other term / phrase. For example, if the meaning of "including" is made synonymous with "including but not limited to", the mere use of "including but not limited to" does not cause "including" to mean something other than "including but not limited to".

[0035] determining The term "determine" and its grammatical variations (e.g., determine the price, determination of value, determine for the purpose of meeting a particular criterion) are used in a very broad sense. The term "determine" encompasses a wide variety of actions, and "determine" includes calculate, perform a process, derive, investigate, examine (e.g., examine a table, database or other data structure), confirm, etc. Also, "determine" includes receive (e.g., receive information), access (e.g., access data in memory), etc. Also, "determine" includes resolve, select, choose, etc.

[0036] The term "determine" does not imply certainty or absolute accuracy, and "determine" includes anticipate, extrapolate, predict, infer, etc.

[0037] The term "determine" does not mean that a mathematical process must be performed, does not mean that a numerical method must be used, and does not mean that an algorithm or process is used.

[0038] The term "determine" does not mean that a particular device must be used. For example, a computer is not necessarily required to perform the determination.

[0039] Form of the sentence When the limitation of the first claim covers one and one or more of the features (e.g., a limitation such as "at least one mechanical device" covers one mechanical device as well as one or more mechanical devices), and in a second claim that depends on the first claim, when the second claim uses the definite article "the" to make the limitation (e.g., "the mechanical device"), it does not mean that the first claim covers only one feature, nor does it mean that the second claim covers only one feature (e.g., "the mechanical device" can cover both one mechanical device and one or more mechanical devices).

[0040] Ordinal numbers (e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc.) are used as adjectives before terms; the ordinal number (unless otherwise specified) merely indicates a particular feature, e.g., a distinction from other features described by the same or similar term. For example, a "first mechanism" is designated merely to distinguish it from, e.g., a "second mechanism." The use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before a "mechanism" does not indicate any other relationship between the two mechanisms or any other characteristic of one or the other of the mechanisms. For example, the use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before a "mechanism" (1) does not indicate whether the mechanism is before or after the other in terms of order or location, (2) does not indicate a temporal relationship between the occurrence or operation of the mechanisms, or (3) does not indicate a relationship between the rank or quality of the mechanisms. Furthermore, the mere use of an ordinal number does not impose a numerical limitation on the feature identified by the ordinal number. For example, the use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before "machine" does not mean that there must be no more than two machines.

[0041] Where a single device, article, or product is described herein, one or more devices / articles (whether or not cooperating) may be used in place of the single device / article described. Thus, functionality described as being possessed by a device may be possessed by one or more devices / articles (whether or not cooperating).

[0042] Similarly, where more than one device, article, or other product (whether or not cooperating) is recited, a single device / article may be substituted for more than one of the recited devices / articles. For example, multiple computer-based devices may be replaced by a single computer-based device. Thus, functionality recited as being possessed by more than one device may be possessed by a single device / article.

[0043] The functions and / or features of the single device described may alternatively be embodied by one or more devices that are described but not explicitly stated as owning such functions / features. Thus, other embodiments need not include the features of the described device per se, but may include one or more other devices having such functions / features in other embodiments.

[0044] The disclosed examples and terms are not limiting. Neither the title of the invention (as set forth at the beginning of the first page of this application) nor the abstract (as set forth at the end of this application) is to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosed invention in any way. Since a summary not exceeding 150 words is required by 37 C.F.R. Section 1.72(b), only a summary has been included in this application.

[0045] The title of this application and the headings of the sections provided in this application are for convenience only and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure in any way.

[0046] Numerous embodiments are disclosed in this application but are presented for illustrative purposes only. The disclosed embodiments are not limiting in any sense and are not intended to be limiting. As will be apparent from the disclosure, the invention disclosed herein is applicable to numerous embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the disclosed invention is capable of being practiced with various modifications and changes such as structural, logical, software, and electrical changes. Specific features of the disclosed invention are described with one or more specific embodiments and / or drawings, but such features are to be understood as not being limited to use in one or more of the specific embodiments or drawings to which reference is made in the description of the embodiment, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0047] Unless explicitly stated in this specification or explicitly recited in the claims, embodiments of method steps or product elements described in this application do not constitute components of the invention required herein, are not essential to the invention required herein, and do not have the same scope as the invention required herein.

[0048] The introductory portion of the claims only describes the purpose, benefits, and possible usage methods of the claimed invention, and does not limit the claimed invention.

[0049] This disclosure does not describe every embodiment of the invention verbatim. Also, this disclosure does not list inventions that must exist in all embodiments.

[0050] Devices that communicate with each other do not necessarily need to communicate continuously with each other, unless otherwise specified. On the contrary, such devices only need to communicate as necessary or desired, and may regulate data exchange most of the time. For example, one machine communicating with other machines via the Internet may not need to send data to another machine over a long period (e.g., once every few weeks). Further, devices communicating with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more mediators.

[0051] The description of embodiments using some components or features does not imply that all or any of these components / features are required. On the contrary, various selectable components are described to illustrate possible embodiments within various broad scopes of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, no component / feature is essential or required.

[0052] Steps, algorithms, or the like may be described or claimed in a particular order, but such a process may be configured to operate in a different order. In other words, no sequence or order that is explicitly described or claimed necessarily indicates a requirement that the steps must be performed in that order. The steps of the processes described herein may be performed in any order. Further, even if some steps are described or suggested as occurring non - simultaneously (e.g., one step is described after another step), they may be performed simultaneously. Additionally, the description of the steps shown in the drawings does not imply that the described process is exclusive of other variations, nor does it imply that the described process or any of its steps are necessary for the invention, nor that the described process is preferred.

[0053] The process may be described as including a plurality of steps, but this does not imply that all or any of those steps are preferred, essential, or necessary. Other various embodiments within the scope of the described invention include other processes that exclude some or all of the described steps. Unless otherwise specified, no step is essential or required.

[0054] The process is described alone or without reference to other products or methods, but in embodiments, the process interacts with other products or methods. For example, such interactions may include linking one business model to another business model. Such interactions are provided to increase the flexibility or desirability of the process.

[0055] The product is described as including a plurality of components, forms, qualities, characteristics, and / or features, but this does not mean that any or all of the plurality are preferred, essential, or required. Other various embodiments within the scope of the described invention include some or all of the plurality described.

[0056] An enumerated list (whether enumerated or not) of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive unless otherwise specified. Similarly, an enumerated list (whether enumerated or not) of items does not imply that any or all of the items are inclusive of any category unless otherwise specified. For example, "computer, laptop, PDA" does not imply that any or all of the three items in the enumerated list are mutually exclusive, nor does it imply that any or all of the three items in the enumerated list are inclusive of any category.

[0057] An enumerated list of items (whether enumerated or not) does not imply that any or all of the items are identical to or readily interchangeable with each other.

[0058] All embodiments are examples and do not imply that the invention or embodiment has been made or implemented on a case-by-case basis.

[0059] calculation Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various processes described herein may be implemented by, for example, appropriately programmed general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, and other computing devices. Generally, a processor (e.g., one or more microcontrollers, one or more digital signal processors) receives instructions (e.g., from a memory or similar device), executes those instructions, and performs one or more processes determined by those instructions. The instructions may be embodied in, for example, one or more computer programs, scripts, or the like.

[0060] "Processor" means one or more microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), computing devices, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, etc. or any combination thereof, regardless of the configuration (e.g., chip-level multiprocessing / multicore, RISC, CISC, microprocessor without interlocked pipeline, pipeline configuration, simultaneous multithreading).

[0061] Thus, the description of a process is also a description of the device that executes the process. Examples of devices that execute a process include, for example, a processor, an input device, and an output device suitable for executing the process.

[0062] Furthermore, programs that implement such methods (like other types of data) can be stored and transmitted using various media (e.g., computer-readable media) in various ways. In some embodiments, hardwired circuitry or custom hardware can be used instead of or in combination with some or all of the software instructions that can execute the processes of the various embodiments. Thus, various combinations of hardware and software can be used interchangeably with software only.

[0063] "Computer-readable medium" applies to any medium, a plurality of identical media, or a combination of different media that provides data (e.g., instructions, data structures) readable by a computer, a processor, or similar device. Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other permanent memories. Volatile media generally includes dynamic random access memory (DRAM) that constitutes main memory. Transmission media includes coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers including a system bus connected to a processor. Transmission media includes optical and electromagnetic field radiation such as that generated in acoustic, radio frequency (RF), and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, and all other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, DVDs, and all other optical media, punch cards, paper tapes, and all other physical media with hole patterns, RAM, PROM, EPROM, FLASH-EEPROM, and all other memory chips or cartridges, the carrier waves described later, or any other media readable by a computer.

[0064] The various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in the conveyance of data (e.g., successive instructions) to a processor. For example, the data is (i) delivered from RAM to the processor, (ii) carried on a wireless transmission medium, (iii) formatted and / or transmitted according to many formats, standards, or protocols such as Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth, TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA, and 3G, and (iv) encrypted in various ways using known techniques for privacy protection or prevention of collusion.

[0065] Thus, the description of the process is also a description of a computer-readable medium storing a program for executing the process. A computer-readable medium can store program elements suitable for performing the method (in any suitable format).

[0066] To the extent that the description of the various steps in the process does not imply that all of the steps described are required, embodiments of the apparatus include a computer / computing device capable of performing some (but not all) of the processes described.

[0067] Similarly, to the extent that the description of the various steps in the process does not imply that all of the steps described 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 all) of the processes described.

[0068] When a database is described, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand the following: (i) alternative databases are readily available for the subject matter being described, and (ii) other memory structures besides databases are readily available. Any illustration or description of any sample database presented herein is an illustrative arrangement for representing memory information. For example, many other arrangements are available besides those proposed by the tables shown in the drawings and the like. Similarly, any illustrative entry of any database provides information only as an example. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the number and content of the entries can be different from those described herein. Further, despite the depiction as a database table, other formats (relational databases, object-based models, and / or distributed databases) can be used to store and manipulate the data types described herein. Similarly, the object methods or behaviors of a database can be used to perform various processes as described herein. Further, the database is stored locally or remotely in a known manner from a device that accesses the data in the database.

[0069] In a network environment including a computer that communicates with one or more devices (e.g., via a communication network), various embodiments can be configured. The computer can communicate directly or indirectly with the devices via any wired or wireless medium (e.g., the Internet, LAN, WAN, Ethernet, Token Ring, telephone line, cable line, radio channel, optical communication line, commercial online service provider, bulletin board system, satellite communication link, any combination of the above). Each device can consist of a computer or computing device, such as one based on an Intel® Pentium® or Centrino™ processor that communicates with the computer. Any number and type of devices can communicate with the computer.

[0070] In one embodiment, a server computer or centralized authority is neither necessary nor preferred. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, one or more devices may be implemented without a centralized authority. In such an embodiment, functions described as being performed by a server computer, or data described as being stored on a server computer, may alternatively be performed or stored on one or more devices.

[0071] When a process is described, in one embodiment, the process may operate without user intervention. In another embodiment, the process includes some human intervention (e.g., steps are assisted by or with a person's hand).

[0072] Continued application This disclosure provides an enabling description to those skilled in the art for several embodiments and / or inventions. Some of these embodiments and / or inventions may not be claimed in this application, but may be claimed in one or more continued applications claiming priority based on this application.

[0073] The applicant intends to file additional applications claiming patents for subject matter that is disclosed and implemented but not claimed in this application.

[0074] 35 U.S.C. § 112, Paragraph 6 In a claim, a limitation of a claim that includes the phrase "means for" or the phrase "step for" means that 35 U.S.C. § 112, Paragraph 6 applies to that limitation.

[0075] In a claim, a limitation of a claim 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 a structure, material, or act for performing that function. For example, if in a claim the phrase "means of" or "step of" is used only in reference to one or more steps of the claim or another claim, that does not mean that 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6 applies to that step.

[0076] With respect to a means or step for performing a particular function in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, the corresponding structure, material, or acts described in the specification, and equivalents thereof, may perform additional functions as well as the particular function.

[0077] Computers, processors, computing devices, and like products are structures that can perform a wide variety of functions. Such products can perform a particular function by executing one or more programs, such as a program stored in the memory of the product or in a memory accessible by the product. Unless otherwise specified, such programs need not be based on any particular algorithm, such as any particular algorithm disclosed in the present application. It is known to those of ordinary skill in the art that a particular function can be performed via different algorithms, and that any of a number of different algorithms are merely design choices for performing the particular function.

[0078] Thus, with respect to means or steps for performing a particular function pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112, paragraph 6, structure corresponding to a particular function includes any product that is programmed to perform the particular function. Such structure includes a programmed product that performs the function, regardless of whether such product is programmed with (i) the disclosed algorithm to perform that feature, (ii) an algorithm similar to the disclosed algorithm, or (iii) a different algorithm to perform that function.

[0079] Where a means for performing a function, i.e., a method, is described, one structure for performing the method includes a computing device (e.g., a general-purpose computer) that is programmed and / or configured with suitable hardware to perform the function.

[0080] It also includes a computing device (eg, a general-purpose computer) that is programmed and / or configured with suitable hardware to perform its functions via other algorithms, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0081] abandonment Multiple references to a particular embodiment do not imply a disclaimer or denial of additional, different embodiments. Similarly, references to a description of an embodiment including a particular feature do not imply a disclaimer or denial of embodiments that do not include that particular feature. An explicit disclaimer or denial in this application will be preceded by the phrase "does not include" or the phrase "cannot perform."

[0082] Incorporation by Reference Any patent application or other document referred to herein is incorporated by reference herein only for the purpose of providing a description in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 1, and enabling embodiments in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 1, as part of the disclosure of this patent application, and not for any other purpose. Also, those documents are not to be used to limit, define, or construe the terms of this application unless they would have provided a meaning that could not have been ascertained without such incorporation by reference and, rather, would have allowed a meaning ascertainable for the terms presented. Thus, one of ordinary skill in the art is not to be limited by any embodiments provided by way of reference.

[0083] Any incorporation by reference itself does not include any warranty, assent, or acquiescence with respect to statements, opinions, arguments, or characterizations contained in the patent, patent application, or other document being incorporated, unless otherwise specifically disclaimed in this patent application.

[0084] Prosecution History In interpreting this application (including the claims), one of ordinary skill in the art will refer to the prosecution history of this application, but will not refer to the prosecution history of other patents or patent applications, whether or not they are considered to be related to this application or share a claim of priority with this application.

[0085] Various Embodiments Games in Different Environments In various embodiments, a game system provides a platform for rapid play of card games for the purpose of maintaining proper odds in the game, enabling a player to have a more easily viewable gaming experience, enabling remote play by a player, and enabling play between players when the players are not in proximity.

[0086] In various embodiments, a computerized game system performs an electronic display of cards. The game system may determine the order of the cards, for example, using a quasi-random algorithm. The game system may then deal the cards in order to one or more players and / or the house or dealer, dealing the cards to one or more players. Depending on the game, a player may place one or more bets. Bets may be keyed using any of a number of possible interfaces such as buttons, touch screens, computer mice, trackballs, and the like. Depending on the game, a player may make one or more decisions in the game. Decisions may include the dealing of additional cards, folding, splitting hands, or other appropriate decisions. A player may make decisions using an interface such as a computer mouse, buttons, touch screen, trackball, or other interface.

[0087] In various embodiments, the computer system reshuffles the cards after an individual game or after a small number of games. The reshuffling is done electronically and may occur almost instantaneously. This saves the time required for the shuffling process when using a physical card deck.

[0088] Reshuffling the card deck for each game makes the odds for each game constant or relatively constant. For example, if the cards are reshuffled for each game, counting strategies used in blackjack or other card games may be less effective or not effective at all.

[0089] In various embodiments, for example, cards numbered from 1 to 6, or cards with similar markings, are used to play a clap game or other dice games. For example, in a clap game, a "roll" is simulated by the distribution of two cards. As is recognized, the rolls of dice are considered to be independent and random events. However, for a card deck used to play a dice game, it is possible in principle to make predictions about the next distribution based on the previously distributed cards. This is because each individually distributed card changes the composition of the remaining deck by using one known card in the deck.

[0090] Computerized systems according to various embodiments enable games using cards to more faithfully simulate games using dice. In one embodiment, the computerized system may simulate by reshuffling an electronic deck such that a newly distributed card is independent of the previous card distribution, just as a new roll of the dice is independent of the previous roll of the dice.

[0091] Infinite card deck The computerized system may simulate an infinite or very large card deck. To simulate an infinite card deck, the computer system may distribute randomly selected cards if necessary. However, after an individual card has been distributed, the computer does not need to modify its selection process. For example, the computer does not need to assume that the remaining card deck has been used up. In this way, the computer may distribute the exact same card that it previously distributed with the next card. As is recognized, there are other ways to simulate an infinite deck. When an infinite card deck is used, the odds of a particular card being distributed do not depend on which cards have been distributed previously. Thus, an infinite deck may be used to faithfully simulate a dice game.

[0092] Expansion A computer system for playing a card game according to various embodiments features a zoom or magnification option. A player can press a button to increase the size of the cards displayed on the screen. The player may further touch or specify certain cards on the touch screen. The cards specified by the player may be expanded with respect to the display size on the display screen so that they are more easily visible to the player. Also, the player may reduce the size of the displayed cards or other items, for example, to increase the game field. For example, when a player is playing a game with multiple opponents, the player may narrow the field of view of the individual opponents' cards so that the player can view all the opponents' cards simultaneously on the same display screen.

[0093] In various embodiments, the game may be played on a physical table. The table may include a marked felt tabletop, chip racks, chairs, player locations, and dealer locations. However, a player at the table may be visually challenged and may not be able to see the cards, bets, or other items on the table. According to one embodiment, a camera or other imaging device may acquire an image of the table. The image may be displayed on a monitor or other display screen near the player. The player may be able to change the magnification of the screen by zooming in or out. In this way, a player with a visual handicap may be able to follow the action taking place at the table by referring to a display screen that can be zoomed in on the image of the display screen.

[0094] Simultaneity In various embodiments, the computer system is designed to allow for simultaneous actions or decisions by players during a game. In one embodiment, players compete against each other in a card game using, for example, the rules of blackjack. Players put money in a pot and bet and raise against each other. The winning player is the one with the hand that has a point total closest to 21 without exceeding 21. In one embodiment, for example, with 22 as the maximum point total, the game is played with different point totals. In any case, in such a game, the first player may have the advantage of delaying the decision to hit or stand until the other players have selected or confirmed whether they will hit or stand. Thus, to prevent any one player from gaining an advantage, the game rules may require that all players in the game make a particular decision (e.g., a hit / stand decision) simultaneously or at least without knowing the hit / stand decisions of the other players.

[0095] In various embodiments, the computer system may receive decisions from multiple players during a game. Since the computer system receives individual decisions, the computer system may store the decisions in computer memory. The computer may keep track of which player's decision has been received. When all players' decisions have been received, the computer system shows all players all the decisions, either by indicating the words hit or stand on a diagram showing the player positions in a virtual table and / or by showing the actual cards.

[0096] In various embodiments, individual players during the game may be prompted to make decisions alternately without disclosing the decisions to other players or only partially disclosing them. For example, a player may make a hit decision such that the resulting card is only visible to themselves. Alternatively, a player may make a hit decision such that the resulting card is only visible to themselves and other players make the hit decision while receiving an indication of that decision. In either case, other players may be prompted to make a hit decision despite having no knowledge or limited knowledge (i.e., when at least an indication of the decision is provided) regarding the previous hit decision. Over time, for example at the end of the game, all cards may be made visible to all players.

[0097] Similarly, in various embodiments, the computer system may allow bets to be placed simultaneously. For example, all players in the game may decide whether they should all place bets simultaneously, and when all players' decisions are received, all players are shown all the decisions / amounts wagered. Thereafter, a player who has entered an amount less than that of other players may be prompted to fold or enter an additional bet so that all players enter, for example, the same amount. In this way, no single player can advantageously monitor the bets of other players before making their own bet decision.

[0098] People do not touch the cards In a traditional blackjack game, it is not preferred to allow players to touch the cards. If a player touches the cards, there is a risk that the player will mark the cards or even exchange the cards for more favorable cards for themselves. In a traditional blackjack game, the cards are distributed face up and there is no special need for a player to touch the cards. This is because a player can see all that they need to know about the cards without touching them. However, if the cards are dealt face down, a player cannot see them without touching them.

[0099] Computer systems according to various embodiments enable only specific cards to be visible to individual players without the need for the players to touch their cards. Computer systems according to various embodiments enable, for example, players to play blackjack with each other. At least one card is dealt to each individual player that the player has the right to know but other players do not. The system enables players to play the game with a remote device, terminal, computer, portable gaming device, or other interface. Since the players are separated from each other, the cards can be displayed on the first player's terminal without the risk of being seen by other players. The terminal of a given player may display some but not all of the cards belonging to other players. For example, in a blackjack game, a player may start the game with one card being private (visible only to that player) and one card being public (visible to all players), and / or may receive a hit that is kept private (visible only to that player) or a hit that is made public (visible to all players). At some point, for example, at the end of the game, all the cards may be visible to all players.

[0100] The interface screen used by the computer system displays the cards so that the players can view them personally without touching the cards.

[0101] In one embodiment, a physical table such as a blackjack table may include a display screen. However, the screen may be visible only within a very narrow viewing range, for example, by barriers installed along both sides of the display screen.

[0102] Such a screen eliminates the need for players to touch the cards and may allow players to view the cards personally.

[0103] In various embodiments, any device including a display (e.g., a portable gaming device, a slot machine, a personal computer) may display some or all of the cards distributed in the game. For example, a portable gaming device may display not only the cards distributed to a specific player but also the cards distributed to all other players. For example, in the initial phase of the game, the player may be allowed to see only the cards in his own hand. However, at the end of the game, the central server may send the display of all the cards distributed to all players during the game to the devices of all players. The individual player's device displays the cards of all players during the game. In this way, the player can compare the value of his own hand with the value of the hands of other players, so that the player can confirm for himself why he won or lost.

[0104] Table without walls Traditional craps tables have one or more walls or barriers. The dice are thrown towards the walls to ensure randomness. The walls further prevent the dice from going beyond the boundaries of the table surface. In various embodiments, a craps game or other dice game is played on a table without walls and / or any boundaries. Cards are used on the table instead of dice. The cards are distributed from a deck consisting of cards numbered from 1 to 6 only. Since the cards are not thrown like dice, a boundary for the cards is not necessary. Accordingly, various embodiments may include a craps table without walls. The table may include standard felt markings such as pass-line bet, come bet, don't-pass bet, odds bet areas, and other standard areas. However, the table may lack walls.

[0105] Portable game In various embodiments, players may play blackjack with each other using portable gaming devices. Each player may carry their respective handheld gaming device (i.e., portable gaming device). Each individual portable gaming device may communicate with a central server. Players use the portable gaming device to input decisions in the game. The decisions may include the bet amount, an instruction to hit or stand. The portable gaming device may have buttons corresponding to one or more decisions. For example, there may be a hit button, a stand button, a double down button, and other buttons appropriate for blackjack. The portable gaming device may send the player's decision to the central server. The central server may shuffle the cards using an electronic shuffling algorithm. The central server may use other algorithms to determine which cards should be distributed to which players. The central server may then send instructions for the dealt cards to the individual portable gaming devices. At the end of the game, the central server may refer to the game rules (e.g., game rules stored in computer memory) to determine the game winner. The central server may provide an instruction of the game winner to the individual players participating in the game. The central server may reveal the hidden cards to one or more players and send instructions for such cards to the other players.

[0106] The central server may maintain an account for the player. The account may include one or more records stored in a database. The records may be stored in computer memory. The player account may include information such as the player's name, the player's address, other identification information about the player, and / or other information about the player. The account may further include information regarding a monetary balance, a casino credit balance, or other numerical balance. In various embodiments, for example, when a player makes a bet or wagering instruction on a portable gaming device, the server may detect the amount of the bet or wager from the player's account. In various embodiments, when a player wins money, the money won may be added to the player's account.

[0107] In various embodiments, a player device, such as a portable gaming device, a personal computer, a stand-alone slot machine, or other device, may prompt a player to take an action in a game. For example, a portable gaming device may display text to prompt a player to either hit or stand in a blackjack game. For example, a player device may prompt a player to make a decision to bet on a pass line or don't pass line in a craps game. As another example, a player device may prompt a player to make a decision as to how much to bet in a game. A central server may initiate a solicitation message and transmit such a message to the player device, at which point the player device may display the solicitation. In some embodiments, for example, logic stored in the device may determine that a solicitation must be displayed to encourage the player to take an action and proceed along the game, in which case the player device may initiate the solicitation.

[0108] In various embodiments, a player may play craps or other dice games using a portable gaming device. The portable gaming device may provide cards instead of dice. The cards may be numbered from one to six. In a given roll, the central server may determine two cards from a randomly shuffled card deck. The central server may then communicate such card instructions to the player's portable gaming device. The player may place bets via the portable gaming device. The player may press a button on the portable gaming device to indicate a desire to take a new roll (e.g., if the game has not ended).

[0109] Motion Control In various embodiments, a portable gaming device may include one or more motion sensors. For example, a portable gaming device may include an accelerometer or a gyroscope. A portable gaming device may include one or more positioning devices, such as a global positioning system sensor. Logic within the portable gaming device or server may differentiate readings of the position sensors to detect movement.

[0110] A player may move a portable gaming device to indicate a decision during the game. Sensors within the portable gaming device may detect the movement of the form gaming device. Logic within the portable gaming device or the server may interpret those movements as commands used in the game. Those movements may be interpreted as commands for betting, for betting a certain amount, for raising, for folding, for calling, for checking, for hitting, for standing, for doubling down, for betting on the pass line, for betting on the don't pass, or for making other bets in the game, or for making other moves in the game.

[0111] Blackjack Motion Control In various embodiments, a player may use a portable gaming device to play a blackjack game. In various embodiments, a player may play against other players. In a traditional blackjack game, a player indicates a decision with a tapping motion. For example, in a traditional blackjack game, a player may tap the table twice to indicate a hit decision. In various embodiments, a player who uses a portable gaming device to play blackjack may shake the portable gaming device up and down twice.

[0112] Card-Dice Motion Control In various embodiments, a player may make a motion with a portable gaming device as if rotating dice. For example, a player may shake the portable gaming device as if shaking and rotating dice in the hand. Then, the player may make a large swinging motion with the portable gaming device as if actually rolling the dice onto a table. The portable gaming device may distribute one or more cards (e.g., from a card deck numbered 1-6) simultaneously with detecting the player's swinging motion.

[0113] Internet In various embodiments, a player may participate in games over the Internet. In this way, in various embodiments, the computer system may include a central server that communicates with one or more player devices. The player devices may be wireless or wired networks. The network may be the Internet. In various embodiments, a player may participate in games via a personal computer while communicating with the central server over the Internet. Together with a portable gaming device, the central server may receive commands and instructions from the player device, may determine distribution cards, may calculate winners and losers, and may appropriately record credits or debits in the player account.

[0114] Standalone slot machine In various embodiments, a player may participate in games such as blackjack games or dice games that use cards instead of dice. The standalone gaming device may include a slot machine, a video poker game, a video keno machine, a bingo machine, or other devices. The gaming device may be networked with other gaming devices. For example, many gaming devices may be linked to the same game server. In this way, together with the portable gaming device and the personal computer, the central server may enable adversarial games among players of different standalone devices.

[0115] In some embodiments, a player may play a blackjack game according to various embodiments alone on a standalone gaming device. The gaming device may simulate a virtual player that plays against the player. In this way, a real, i.e., human, player may play a game, for example, a blackjack game, against six virtual players. Each of the real and virtual players may bet and make decisions during the game. The winner may be determined based on which player gets closest to 21 without folding and without exceeding 21. If the winner is a real player, the amount in the pot may be given to the real player's account, paid out to the player in cash, or provided to the player in some other way.

[0116] A player may play a dice game on a stand-alone device. The stand-alone device may distribute cards numbered from 1 to 6 to simulate the rotation of a dice. The winning or losing of the player may be determined according to applicable dice game rules, such as craps.

[0117] Deck storage device In various embodiments, a deck of only cards numbered from 1 to 6 may be created from a standard 52-card deck or from multiple decks. The card deck may be created using a card sorter. According to some embodiments, the card sorter may receive a deck consisting of cards numbered from 1 to 6 and other cards (e.g., 7, 8, 9, 10, J, Q, K). The card sorter may then create two decks. The first deck may include cards numbered from 1 to 6, and the second deck may include all other cards.

[0118] The card sorter may include an optical reader or scanner for reading the face of the cards. The card sorter may include a processor and a memory. The processor and the memory may be composed of semiconductors or any other such material. The processor may be a standard Intel processor or any other such processor.

[0119] Embodiments without a computer In various embodiments, where applicable, the embodiments described herein may be implemented without a computer system. For example, players may play blackjack against each other using physical cards or chips to bet. Players may play craps or other dice games using a physical deck of cards numbered from 1 to 6.

[0120] Generally, even if the numbers are the same, different patterns do not necessarily indicate the same item. The following reference numbers apply only to Figures 1 to 21 unless otherwise specified.

[0121] Configuration of the system according to various embodiments According to FIG. 1, a block diagram of an interaction game system A10 according to various embodiments is shown. System A10 includes a controller A12 and a plurality of game devices or gaming machines G1, G2, G3,... GN (collectively referred to herein as gaming machine A14). Each gaming machine A14 has a plurality of reel-type wagering games, for example, a wagering game such as a video slot machine. Each gaming machine A14 includes at least one display screen for viewing the player's result along with the results of other players. If the wagering game is a video slot machine, the display screen can be used to view the wagering game. Controller A12 is connected to and controls gaming machine A14. Controller A12 includes a central processing unit (CPU) A16, a random access memory A18, a read-only memory A20, a programmable interface circuit A22, a display A24, a user interface A26, a random number generator A28, and one or more servers S1, S2, S3,... SM (collectively referred to as server A30). Each server A30 is assigned to operate a specific number of gaming machines A14. Interface circuit A22 includes a multiplex transmission circuit. However, it should be understood that this multiplex transmission circuit can be replaced by an address / data bus and an appropriate decoder within each gaming machine A14. System A10 further includes a communication link A32. Communication link A32 electronically connects controller A12 to gaming machine A14. In order for gaming machine A14 to have a completely random and random output as a stimulus function provided by a random number generator, random number generator A28 communicates with and controls gaming machine A14 via interface circuit A22. Each gaming machine A14 is equipped with realization means, for example, a push button, a joystick, a video game pad arm, or a touch screen for operating and conducting a wagering game.

[0122] According to FIG. 1, the programmable interface circuit A22 may be programmed to perform data communication between the gaming machine A14 and the controller A12 when the gaming machine A14 and the controller A12 are arranged in different configurations. In various embodiments, the controller A12 is located in one specific location and the individual gaming machines A14 are located at Internet locations. In other embodiments, the controller A12 and the gaming machines A14 are physically located in the same place, such as the same casino. When the individual gaming machines A14 are located at Internet locations, the individual gaming machines A14 generally include a player's personal computer and software appropriate thereto. In various embodiments, the player downloads software available on the Internet by the server A30. This software enables communication between the player and the controller A12 and enables the execution of wagering games and desired theme games.

[0123] When the system A10 is configured such that the gaming machine A14 is placed in a remote location connected to the Internet, the display screen of each player's personal computer is programmed to first display the inside of the casino. The player can scroll and move around the casino using a keyboard or mouse. In one embodiment, the player's personal computer and software are configured to provide the sounds of a typical casino environment. The "casino" displayed on the display screen includes a plurality of groups or columns of slot machines. Each individual group of slot machines is associated with a specific themed game. Marks are provided to identify which group of slot machines is associated with a specific themed game. Each individual slot machine is associated with an icon indicating a chair or stool. When the player decides to use a slot machine associated with a specific themed game, he / she clicks on the "chair icon" on the front of one of the slot machines that is part of the row of gaming machines associated with the desired themed game with a computer mouse. The system A10 then labels that specific chair with the player's name or pseudonym that the player is using online. A pre-programmed computer provides a specific screen configuration corresponding to the selected themed game. This will be described in detail below.

[0124] System 10 can be controlled by a software program that implements the steps of the process according to various embodiments. Thus, as described above, system A10 can have any one of various configurations, and it should be understood that the interface circuit A22 can be configured to operate the data transmission between the controller A12 and the gaming machine A14 in a manner consistent with any of the specific configurations described above by the CPU A16. Similarly, as described above, the controller A12 is an example of a suitable controller, and it should be understood that other suitable controller configurations can be used.

[0125] The game system A10 according to various embodiments can be used by one or more players to play a game. Some of the themed games are configured such that a plurality of players who play the game in a row of gaming machines can play the game in a group. When a group of players plays the game on the game system A10, the group of players is called a "group". In some embodiments, the game may be configured in such a form that the players play individually against each other instead of in a group. In various embodiments, the system enables the players to communicate with each other via email while playing a wagering game simultaneously.

[0126] Remote participation in live casino games Various embodiments relate to playing casino table type games such as roulette and dice from a remote location while watching an actual game being played at a casino or similar location.

[0127] One of the games played in a casino is roulette. In this game, many players stand or sit around a table and bet by placing chips on the betting number grids in the block, the intersections of the blocks, black and red, odd and even selections. The roulette wheel is spun, and when the roulette wheel stops, the ball falls into a numbered pocket, thereby determining the winner of the game who receives payouts at various odds depending on the type of bet placed. Such games are played in casinos around the world. When the game is played, usually quite a bit of interest and excitement occurs around the table.

[0128] The roulette game is also played via the Internet. In this case, there are betting grids on a roulette table simulated by a computer and the rotation of the roulette wheel. This type of game can start from a place where a computer can be installed and the necessary long-distance communication can be prepared. Players can bet on the Internet for entertainment purposes only or by creating and using a credit card account. With the Internet and other long-distance communications, roulette can be played from anywhere in the world if one has the necessary equipment.

[0129] Similar situations exist for other casino games such as blackjack, dice, and baccarat. In each of these games, players bet on the table and there is player interaction when the game is played in addition to the reactions within the group's scrutiny.

[0130] In various embodiments, a player sets up an information link with a casino from an interface station that includes a video monitor and a keypad. In response to the input of the player's financial account information, the casino sets up an information line with the player's financial institution. The casino assigns a game table where a live game is being played to the player and transmits all game images and descriptions to the player. The player transmits bets and game execution information to the casino. Since there is an open line between the casino and the player's financial institution, bets are checked, paid out in case of a win, and billed in case of a loss.

[0131] Various embodiments include systems and methods for playing roulette in an interactive state at a location away from an actual casino table while experiencing and viewing the live action of a casino where the game is being played. According to various embodiments, a camera follows the game being played at a roulette table in the casino. A microphone picks up the voices of the table players and the game play.

[0132] In some embodiments, terminals are deployed at various locations within the casino that are away from the table. The terminals are connected to a distribution device that provides the necessary communication between the players of the remote terminals and the games being played at the casino table.

[0133] The remote terminal accepts cash or credit cards to set up the player's account. The remote terminal displays an image (video) of the actual casino table where the game is being played. The remote terminal also includes a computer (microprocessor) with various functions of its own. These functions include the generation of the betting grid on the table and the display of an electronic depiction, which, in some embodiments, also has a touch-type keypad. The player at the terminal uses the keypad to electronically place bets on the computer depiction of the betting grid on the table, usually under the roulette rules of the casino (the house). The player also uses the touchpad to select the amount of the bet to be placed. The remote terminal microprocessor has programmed into it the necessary information regarding payout odds in the event the player wins a bet. The game at the casino table proceeds in the normal manner. At a predetermined time, usually just before or when the ball is placed on the spinning wheel, bets are not accepted. This sends a signal to the computers of the remote terminals, prohibiting the players at these terminals from placing any further bets. The players at the remote terminals can view the actual game play at the casino table and the players' reactions. When the ball drops into a pocket on the spinning wheel and the game at the casino ends, the player sees the winning number result. The result is also made electronically available at the remote terminal.

[0134] In various embodiments, the remote terminal microprocessor maintains the account balance information of the terminal players. When the result of the game winning number is communicated to the remote terminal, the terminal microprocessor calculates for the bets placed. If the bet is a loss, the amount of the bet is deducted from the player's account. If the bet is a win, the amount of the win is calculated at the normal casino odds, or the amount of the win with other odds set as appropriate is given to the player's account.

[0135] Various embodiments relate to players who can effectively be anywhere in the world without being in a casino. Here, the games played in the casino are tracked by cameras, and the images and results of the game play are communicated via remote communication to a remote location. As a transmission mode, the roulette game is targeted at players who use a device in the form of a TV set connected to the Internet using a personal computer or a control box provided by WEBTV or AOLTV, and it can be the Internet, satellite, or other wired or wireless communication systems. The device can be of an installed type or a portable type capable of wireless communication. A program having the characteristics of the remote terminal of the casino described above, such as the calculation, generation of betting odds, and display of placing bets on the grid, can be installed in or downloaded to the device of the remote terminal player.

[0136] In the embodiment of the remote player, the games played in the casino may be viewed by a player in a remote location, and the audio of the game play may be heard. Preferably, the player maintains an account on the player's own device, which can communicate with a central computer, such as a bank or a credit company, to access the player's device. The player follows the table game by watching the transmission from the camera. When the game is completed in the casino, the result is transmitted, and the player's computer performs the necessary win-loss calculation based on the game result, and this result is input into the player's account on the player's device.

[0137] In some embodiments, players not at the casino table can experience the actual table play and the reactions of the crowd and can place bets without physically being at the casino table. The results of the bets are calculated where the player is, the running total of the player's account is presented, and the player can see the results of their bets and monitor the amount bet.

[0138] Various embodiments relate to games played at tables, such as blackjack, dice, baccarat, and similar games.

[0139] Various embodiments may follow an actual game being played at a casino table and allow a player to play roulette and other casino table type games remotely while using the casino results to determine the outcome of a bet.

[0140] Various embodiments provide a system and method for playing roulette and other casino table type games where a player away from the game being played at a casino follows the casino table game, places bets using a computer placed on the terminal or device, and the actual game is played and the outcome is calculated.

[0141] Various embodiments provide a method and system for viewing a roulette or other table game being played at a casino from a remote location where the bet is placed, and the outcome is adjusted against the remote player's account balance.

[0142] FIG. 2 shows a conventional roulette table B10 commonly used in a casino. Although various embodiments are described in relation to a roulette table, the principles are applicable to other table games such as blackjack, dice, and baccarat. The table has a normal turntable B12 that is rotated manually with the ball B11 dropped by the croupier at the start of the game. The ball B11 is placed on a tray B11a during periods when it is not in use. The betting grid B13 is on the table and the grid includes a numbered square or rectangular normal format, and other betting areas such as odd / even numbers, and red / black. Players place bets by placing one or more predetermined units of chips on numbers, corner intersections, red / black, etc.

[0143] Shown above the table is a video camera B14, such as a full-color type video camera. The camera B14 can be hidden like many cameras used in casinos for surveillance purposes. Or, for example, in the case where features of remote play are being promoted, it can also be a stand-alone visible type. The field of view of the camera is limited to the player's hand when the player places a bet on the table, and the player's face does not have to be shown. This is done to protect the privacy of the player. Similarly, a microphone B16 is also installed to pick up the ambient noise of the players. The microphone can be directional to pick up the sound of the spinning wheel and the ball.

[0144] The output cable B16 of the camera B14 and the output cable B17 of the microphone B15 are shown. These are connected to a distribution device B20 in a suitable location including the broadcast equipment type used in the system. For example, if the game is only utilized by a remote terminal in the casino, a closed-circuit TV system type is used. When the camera and audio output are broadcast on the Internet, suitable transmitters such as "streaming video" and "streaming audio" are used. When the broadcast is by satellite, communications such as digital transmission are used.

[0145] Similarly, associated with table B10 is control box B18. This is used to indicate specific in-play events such as the start of a game and the end of a bet on the game, i.e., bet status signals. Control box B18 can operate in a suitable manner, such as manual operation by a key lock, voice operation, and remote operation by an operator at a central location monitoring the play of the table. In some embodiments, control box B18 can be associated with a physical device such as a tray T having a microswitch or other type of sensor where the game ball is placed. Placing a ball in the tray outputs a signal indicating the start of a bet on a new game, and removing the ball from the tray and placing it on the turntable outputs a signal indicating the end of the bet on the game. It is possible to indicate the end of the bet by a motion detector or video camera that detects the start of the rotation of the turntable and the start of a bet on a new game by detecting the stop of the rotation of the turntable. These bet status signals are transmitted to the remote terminal via distribution device B20.

[0146] Figure 3 shows remote terminal B40 for use in a casino or other location. Remote terminal B40 has an input section B39 that receives video and table-originated data signals. Terminal B40 includes a video display B42 that receives video images of the action on table B10 broadcast from casino camera B14. There is also an audio module B46 with a speaker and suitable volume control for controlling and playing audio picked up from the casino by a microphone and other audio information as described below. The image of the game being played on the table and the audio of the table are features that give a sense of presence to players playing the game away from the casino.

[0147] Terminal B40 also includes a computer module B48 with a microprocessor and memory. That is, the terminal has an application program that can generate various displays and perform the calculations necessary for odds for game execution and continuous account maintenance for the player's wins and losses. The terminal computer module B48 receives the bet result and bet status type signals generated in table B10.

[0148] Remote terminal B40 also includes a display B44 basically consisting of three sections. The display B44 is controlled by the terminal computer module B48, and the connection communication line B50 between the two is shown.

[0149] The display B44 has a section B44a that displays the table betting grid generated by the computer module B48. This section can also display other information such as odds and bet combinations for various bets. The latter type of information can be displayed continuously or only when requested.

[0150] The second section B44b of the display B44 is a touch-type screen with a normal 0-9 numeric keypad B53, a touch-type input key B54, and a display window B55 for displaying the input data. As part of the menu of the touch screen B44b, there is a key set for bet type selection, namely, consecutive numbers, number combinations, red / black, and odd / even. The third section B44c displays the player's account balance. All sections of the display B44 are generated and controlled by the terminal computer module B48.

[0151] The voice module B46 of the terminal B40 also interacts with the computer module B48. The voice module may be used to provide information to assist the player's bet. For example, the voice module may give a message that brings about the start of a new game, instruct the player to place a bet on a grid number, and may indicate that the bet is over. Instead of a voice message, it can be displayed in one of the sections of the display B44, and a combination of voice and visual messages is also possible.

[0152] The bill acceptor B47 is also part of the terminal B40. Here, the player inserts bills to set up an account. The bill acceptor accepts one or more units of currency of the type used in the casino or other types. When the player inserts one or more bills into the acceptor to open an account, its value is displayed in the display section B44c. Also, the acceptor B47 can be replaced by a credit card reader or a credit card reader can be added to the acceptor.

[0153] The remote terminal B40 also has an internal printer B49. When the player ends the game at the terminal, it is possible to request a printed output of the account provided by the printer B49. The printed output can be presented to the casino's accounting department for cashing out to cash or chips when the account balance is positive. When the player is playing with a credit card, the player can request the terminal to electronically input the winning amount of the player's account stored in the computer module B48 into the credit account of the credit card company or bank. The player can obtain cash using the credit card from an ATM or the like.

[0154] In the operation of the remote terminal B40 for a new player, the player inserts banknotes into the receiver B47 or uses a credit card. This opens the terminal and the account balance is displayed in section B44c. Subsequently, the player selects the amount of the bet desired, i.e., the base amount of the bet corresponding to the chip. For example, if opening a $100 account and desiring a bet of $5, if actually playing at a casino table, one would have an amount equivalent to 20 $5 chips. One or more stacks of electronic chips of appropriate value can be displayed in the electronic betting grid section B44a, etc. The value of the chip can be any amount, for example, as small as 25 cents. In many casino tables where the minimum bet is $5 or $10, small bet amounts are usually not permitted. The remote terminal extends the amounts that can be set by the customer base and the casino owner or game operator during the game.

[0155] The player can view the game in progress at the casino table and play along with the casino game on the video display B42. The video display B42 is preferably kept on at all times to promote the game at the terminal.

[0156] The player is prompted to place a bet as a new game begins. The start of an audio or visual new game message is triggered by a control box B18 in cooperation with the casino table. For example, when the ball B11 is placed on the tray B11 or the rotation of the roulette wheel stops, the casino dispensing device broadcasts this to the remote terminal. The player inputs the bet via the touch screen B44b. That is, the player selects whether the bet is a sequential number, combination, or other bet. Different types of bets can be selected, just like in the play of a casino table. When placing a bet, the player can refer to the betting grid in the display section B44a. Instead of the touch-type screen section B44b for specifying a number or other type of bet, it is possible to select a number by point / click of a computer mouse on the electronic grid table B44a. Such a configuration is particularly useful in the case of a PC or other device where the terminal is physically separated from the casino. In a PC or similar device, part of the display screen is available for video display, and other parts are available for functions generated by a computer, such as a betting grid. In a device using an AOLTV or WEBTV conversion box or similar device, the display screen of the TV is split in the same way.

[0157] The type of bet selected is displayed in the window B55. If the bet is a combination, the player inputs a number or the intersection number of the grid. This is also displayed in the window B55. Number, intersection, red / black, or odd / even bets are displayed in the electronic betting grid section B44a. The player then inputs the bet amount displayed in the window B55. The bet amount can also be displayed on the betting grid section B44a by stacking electronic chips or indicating the amount of the chip selected at an appropriate grid position. The chips bet are removed from the electronic chips purchased by the player.

[0158] The completed bet is displayed on window B55. If the player agrees with the displayed content, the player touches input key B54. If not, touching a key on keypad B53 like the star key, or a special cancel key provided in section B44b cancels the bet. At this point, the bet data is input into the memory of terminal computer module B48. When a mouse is used, the input or cancel box displayed on the screen is specified and clicked with the mouse.

[0159] The player can place additional bets until a signal such as removing the ball from tray B11a or starting the rotation of the roulette wheel, issued from control box B18 of the casino game table, indicates the end of the bet for the current game. The computer B48 of the remote terminal is disabled from receiving bets. This is notified to the player of the remote terminal either by voice or a visible message generated by the computer or both. During the time allotted for placing bets, the player at the terminal can view the actions of the players and the bets placed at casino table B10.

[0160] The game is played at casino table B10, and both the casino and the players at the remote terminal can view the rotation of the roulette wheel and the fall of the ball. The sound of the table is also broadcast to the players at the remote terminal. The game result, i.e., the winning number and its color of the pocket where the ball has fallen, is sent from casino distribution device B20 to individual remote terminals. The computer module B48 of remote terminal B40 calculates whether there is a win or loss using the game result and the placed bet information. In case of a loss, the computer deducts the bet amount from the player's account. In case of a win, the remote terminal computer module B48 calculates the amount of victory according to the type of odds and the bet amount. That is, individual consecutive numbers and number combinations have different odds, and red / black and odd / even have the same odds, but are different from the case of bets on number types. The computer B48 has a program that provides this calculation. The calculated amount of victory is credited to the player's account. The amount in the account is displayed in display section B44c.

[0161] In this way, players in a location away from the actual casino table can follow the actual game and experience much of the reactions and voices of the actual casino players. This makes the participation of remote players in the play more immersive and interesting.

[0162] The above description is based on the standard casino settings as seen in the states of Nevada and New Jersey in the United States. That is, a religious or veterans organization holds a gambling night. Similar to the remote terminal and communication device, a roulette table and a camera are taken to the location of the organization. The remote terminal can be installed anywhere for those who want to play alone or handle a large number of people.

[0163] Although various embodiments are described with respect to the roulette table, they are applicable to games of other casino table play types. For example, it is applicable to a casino dice table having a camera and a microphone as described above. Here, the remote terminal has a video display of the casino dice table and a depiction of the table generated by a computer. The player of the remote terminal places bets and plays the game with the casino players. Here too, appropriate bet status signals are sent to the remote terminal to indicate the start and end of bets, setting of additional bets, and the result of the game. As described above, the program in the remote terminal computer module calculates wins based on the house odds or other odds and credits this to the player account of the remote terminal. Losses are deducted.

[0164] The video display by the remote terminal of the actual game content is also applicable to blackjack, poker, and baccarat.

[0165] It is possible to prepare an independent remote terminal for each type of game, or it is also possible to prepare one general-purpose terminal for two or more table games.

[0166] Since the individual features may be combined with other features according to various embodiments, the specific features of the various embodiments are shown in one or more figures for purposes of convenience only. Alternative embodiments will be recognized by those skilled in the art and are intended to be within the scope of the claims. Accordingly, the foregoing description should be construed as illustrative and not as limiting.

[0167] Casino with Online Participation Figure 4A shows a casino that provides in-house and online (over the network) games according to various embodiments. In Figure 4A, casino C105 includes various gaming devices such as slot machine C110 and blackjack C115. (Those skilled in the art will recognize other games provided by casino C105). Casino C105 also includes a server C120 that tracks the activities of players within the casino. Thus, when a player uses slot machine C110 or blackjack table C115, all of the player's coin insertions, wins, etc. are tracked via server C120. The tracked data can be stored locally on server C120 or on a secure off-site server (see lower part of Figure 5). Further, although server C120 is shown as being located within the area of casino C105, it can also be located outside of casino C105.

[0168] Casino C105 also provides online game website C125. Website C125 provides Internet games similar to those provided by Casino C105, but does not use physical devices available in-house. For example, website C125 can provide an online version of slot machine game C130 or blackjack game C135. Credits used by players in Internet games can be from anywhere. For example, a player can enter the number of a credit card into website C125, and then website C125 issues credits to the player in exchange for a charge to the player's credit card. Or, a player can also use credits associated with the player's account. A system for transferring credits from a player's account to a gaming machine is described in U.S. Patent Application 09 / 134,285, filed on April 14, 1998, and U.S. Patent Application 09 / 694,065, filed on November 19, 2000, which are incorporated herein by reference. Those skilled in the art will recognize how the system can be modified to transfer credits to a website providing Internet games.

[0169] To use website C125, a user connects to website C125 from a computer such as computer system C140 over network C145. Computer system C140 typically includes computer C145, monitor C150, keyboard C155, and mouse C160. Although computer system C140 is shown as a desktop personal computer, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other types of computers are contemplated in various embodiments. For example, computer system C140 can be an Internet appliance having a mouse C160 integrated into the housing of monitor C150, keyboard C155, and computer C145. Computer system C140 can also take other forms: for example, a personal digital assistant (PDA) or other portable device, or a cellular phone. Selectable devices not shown in FIG. 4A as part of computer system C140 include input / output devices such as printers. Items not shown in FIG. 4A include conventional internal components of computer system C140: for example, a central processing unit, memory, and file system, etc. Similarly, network C145 can be any of a variety of networks such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), wireless network, or global network (such as the Internet). Network C145 can be any combination of the above networks used to connect computer system C140 and website C125.

[0170] FIG. 4A shows the website C125 being stored on the server C120 within the casino C105, but one skilled in the art will recognize that the website C125 could be stored on other servers. Similarly, since the website C125 is accessible via the server C105 or is completely isolated, a path via the server C120 is not required for connection to the website C125. For example, FIG. 4B shows an alternative embodiment. In FIG. 4B, the website C125 is opened by a server C150 independent of the casino C105. The server C150 could be owned by the casino C105, but is physically separated from the server C120. In this embodiment where the server C150 and the server C120 are separate devices, the server C150 generally does not store player tracking information that is preferably stored on the server C120. The server C150 could also be installed in a different environment, outside the casino C105. Or, the server C150 could be a third - party server operated by a third party (but receiving instructions from the casino C105) instead of the casino C105. One skilled in the art will recognize other adoptable variations.

[0171] If the casino C105 does not own and operate its own server C150, the casino C105 needs to be able to track player actions on the website C125. To enable this tracking, the server C150 can report player actions to the casino C105. The connection C155 enables the server C150 to report player actions to the casino C105. One skilled in the art will recognize that the connection C155 does not need to be a direct physical connection. The server C150 can be connected to the casino C105 via the network C145.

[0172] Figures 4A and 4B show website C125 that provides the same online games as the in-house games of a casino. However, website C125 can provide other forms of entertainment to players. For example, instead of playing for money, website C125 may provide play for entertainment purposes to players. In this configuration, when a player uses website C125, the player does not bet his or her own money. However, casino C105 may track the player's actions to reward the player's preference. For example, a player may obtain points that can be redeemed at the casino. Thus, although the casino does not directly benefit from the player's actions, there is an incentive for indirect benefits because the player visits the casino to redeem the points obtained and, if successful, uses money for gambling at the casino. Further, when a casino provides multiple websites to a player, some of those websites can be configured as online games and other websites can be configured for entertainment.

[0173] Returning to FIG. 4A, when a player plays, for example, slot machine C110 or blackjack table C115 within casino C105, information about the player is tracked. Similarly, when a player plays, for example, slot machine game C130 or blackjack game C135 online at website C125, information about the player is tracked. In some embodiments, the combined data is stored on a secure server in a remote location (as shown at the bottom of FIG. 5). In a second embodiment, the combined data is stored on server C120. Regardless of where the data is stored, the combined data provides the casino with more information about the player that would otherwise not be available.

[0174] Although FIGS. 4A and 4B show only a single casino, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various embodiments may include multiple casinos. For example, a single website may track online gaming activity for players registered at one or more casinos. Further, a single casino may have one or more websites (hosted on one or more servers, all different from server C120) by virtue of player tracking data being reported to server C120. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other possible variations.

[0175] FIG. 5 shows a player communicating via the server of the casino of FIG. 4A, according to some embodiments. In FIG. 5, a computer system 140 that communicates with server C120 is shown. Server C120 communicates with an ASP server C205 that is communicating with a secure server C210 behind a firewall C215. Secure server C210 stores data of concern: for example, player tracking data that stores data regarding player actions and personal information, among other possibilities.

[0176] The ASP server C205 manages secure communication between the server C120 and the security server C210. In a preferred embodiment, the server C120 transmits an extensible markup language (XML) to the ASP server C205 that is uniquely allowed access to the server C210 behind the firewall C215. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the server C120 can communicate with the ASP server C205 by means other than using XML. By causing the security server C210 to communicate with the ASP server instead of the security server C210 itself, the data of concern is securely maintained on the security server C210, but is accessible from outside the firewall C215 when requests are sent in the correct manner. The ASP server C205 can preferably communicate with the security server C210 to obtain a response to a request that is securely transmitted to the server C120 using XML. The server C120 can use extensible stylesheet language (XSL) transformation (XSLT) to convert the XML response into hypertext markup language (HTML). The resulting HTML can be displayed to the player on the computer system C140.

[0177] The communication between the server C120 and the ASP server C205 can be encrypted. Any encryption system can be used: the secure socket layer (SSL) encryption protocol used on the Internet is applicable to encrypt the communication. Similarly, the communication between the ASP server C205 and the security server C210 is preferably also encrypted.

[0178] As an example of how the communication configuration of FIG. 5 can be used, consider the case where a player desires to update personal information. (In this example, encrypted communication is not described, but one skilled in the art will recognize how to introduce encryption into this example.) Since personal information requires attention (the player does not desire disclosure), the data is stored in the secure server C210 behind the firewall C215. Thus, using the server C120, the player can request to view his or her player data. (At this point, it is assumed that the player has identified himself or herself to the system.) The browser request made to the server C120 is converted into an XML request to the ASP server C205 that is transferred to the secure server C210. The secure server C210 responds with the personal information in XML format that is transferred to the server C120. The server C120 uses XSLT to convert the XML data into an HTML page presented to the user. Using the form, the player can update personal information. The data in XML format is filled into the ASP server C205 that can update the database on the secure server C210. The ASP server C205 returns an XML confirmation message to the server C120 that uses XSLT again to convert the XML confirmation message into HTML presented to the user.

[0179] Registration of Player Of course, before a player can receive the benefits of FIGS. 6 and 7, the player must register with the casino. The most traditional way for a player to register with the system is to have the player come to the casino to register. A casino employee enters the player's data (a form prepared by the player or data presented by the player on the spot) into a computer and issues the player a player card. Thereafter, when the player uses the player card on any gaming device, the system can track the player's actions. On the player card, it is possible to press a number unique to that player card: the player can use that number for personal identification when playing an online game.

[0180] Instead of sending players to a casino to register an account, there are other ways to register players with the system. For example, players can fill out an electronic form on the Internet. The player can then be mailed a player card and / or an identification number that can be used for online games can be electronically issued.

[0181] Other methods are also possible for registering players. For example, there is software that can determine the location of a computer's Internet Protocol (IP) address. Using such software, a player's location can be determined without having to type in any information. When a player sets up an account for the first time, the system can determine the player's location based on the IP address. However, since an IP address identifies a computer and not an individual, it is not possible to determine who is using that computer from the IP address. Furthermore, if the IP address is dynamically assigned, it may not even be possible to identify and locate the computer.

[0182] Instead of assigning an identification number to a player, the player's existing ID may be used. For example, individual states assign a state-specific driver's license number to individuals. The combination of the issuing state and the ID number can be used to uniquely identify a player. The player can enter this information into the system, and the system can transfer this information to a third-party database. The third-party database returns information about the player. The combination of the issuing state and the ID number can be used both to obtain information about the player for registration purposes (in setting up a player account) and for identification purposes (for using the account).

[0183] In various embodiments, combinations of methods are used for player registration. First, the computer's IP address is checked to determine the player's location. The player is then prompted for an ID number and issuing carrier. The ID number and issuing carrier are transferred to a third-party database to confirm the player's location determined by the IP address and to obtain demographic information. If the player's location is confirmed, an account is registered using the player's IP address, ID number, and issuing carrier. However, if the player's location is not confirmed, the player calls the casino or visits in person and has a casino employee register the player's account.

[0184] Player preference settings Various embodiments provide a gaming machine that is customized according to the preferences of one or more players. The player may view and modify the player reference stored in the player reference as preferred account information. Preferred account information includes, but is not limited to, favorite point account information, favorite point account settings, privilege opportunities, characteristics of favorite games for favorite games, favorite gaming machine settings, favorite bonus games, favorite service options, and favorite ongoing games. The preferred account information may be stored in a plurality of preferred accounts of a preferred account server. Using a preferred account interface compatible with a web browser, the player may view and modify the preferred account information stored on the preferred account server from a gaming device, a home computer, a video interface in a hotel room, and a casino kiosk.

[0185] Detection of collusion Poker games are known to be a mixed game combining chance and skill or strategy. In a poker game, it is known that two or more players may adjust their play strategies to gain an advantage over the remaining players in the game, causing the fairness of the game to be lost.

[0186] Some embodiments are described with particular reference to a system for detecting and managing collusion in a poker game. However, this application is not to be construed as limited in any way to the various embodiments.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 8, a system for detecting and managing collusion in a poker game is generally designated by reference numeral (D1). The system (D1) includes a game server (D2) and portals (D3a, D3b) in the form of websites on the World Wide Web of the Internet. In this embodiment, each of the portal websites is an online casino website opened on a corresponding casino web server (not shown). For convenience, various embodiments are described with reference to only two online casino websites (D3a, D3b). Each casino website (D3a, D3b) can be accessed by one or more potential poker players (not shown). An individual poker player accesses the casino website by means of a computer workstation operable on the Internet having a display (D5) and an attached mouse or, as an alternative, a pointing device (D6) such as a touchpad. In this embodiment, although the casino website (D3b) is shown connected to two computer workstations, the casino website (D3a) is shown having one computer workstation (D4) to which the casino website is logically connected. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the casino websites (D3a, D3b) can be logically connected to any number of computer workstations (D4) simultaneously, and the number is physically limited only by considerations of processing power and Internet access bandwidth.

[0188] The system (D1) further includes a management facility (D13) in the form of an application server that communicates with the game server (D2) via a communication channel (D12). Details of the application web server (D13) are outlined in the following description. The system (D1) also includes a collusion detection server (D14) that can communicate with the game server (D2) via the communication channel (D12).

[0189] The game server (D2), online casino web servers (not shown) corresponding to the online websites (D3a, D3b), computer workstations (D4), application web servers (D13), and collusion detection server (D14) can communicate with each other over an open communications channel, which in this embodiment is the Internet. Although the Internet is a single packet-switched communications network, for convenience it is shown in Figure 8 as separate logical communications channels (D7, D8, D9, D10, D11, and D12).

[0190] The application web server (D13) maintains an account settlement facility (D15) with accounts corresponding to each of the casino web sites (D3a, D3b). Similarly, each online casino web server (D3a, D3b) includes a credit account facility (D16a, D16b) with credit accounts corresponding to each player participating in a poker game via one of the computer workstations (D4). In the illustrated embodiment, the credit account facility (D16a) has an account associated with a single player, while the credit account facility (D16b) has credit accounts associated with two players.

[0191] The game server (D2) operates under a stored program that enables a predetermined maximum number of players, for example, eight players, to participate in one game of the poker game. When the number of players reaches this predetermined value, the stored program causes a new game to be started that enables eight more players to participate. Further, in this embodiment, for each of different levels of play consisting of $1 / $2, $2 / $4, $5 / $10, $10 / $20, $20 / $40, fixed limit games exceeding $20 / $40, and pot limit games, the stored program starts different games. In this way, the game server can execute as many independent games as possible in order to enable a group of players who wish to play at different levels of play in groups of up to eight players under the stored program. Each game started in this way is treated completely independently of other games.

[0192] The online casino websites (D3a, D3b) enable players who wish to participate in the game to request participation in the game by one of the computer workstations (D4), and when participation in a particular session of the game is approved, enable wagering in that session. Each participating player is presented with the same graphical user interface (GUI) on the display (D5) of the player's respective computer workstation (D4) by the program stored in the game server (D2). The GUI provides the player with an appropriate display of the poker game (not shown) with appropriate icons that enable the player to determine the desired game play and to monitor the decisions of the other participating players regarding their game play in the same session of the game.

[0193] As shown in FIG. 9, the program to be stored provides betting means (D17) that enables any participating player to place a bet at the turning point of the game, and identification means (D18) that can determine whether a bet placed by any one of the participating players at the turning point of the poker game is successful or unsuccessful. The program stored in the game server (D2) also maintains dynamic registration (D19) of all players who are allowed to participate in the game and actively participate in all games that are sometimes started, together with data representing the corresponding portals (D3a, D3b) used by individual participating players for game access. The dynamic register (D19) also includes data representing the number of games in which the player is participating. The application web server (D13) also determines the bets of the participating players after the end of the turning point of all rounds of the game.

[0194] In use, a player wishing to participate in a poker game uses a computer workstation (D4) to access an online casino website (D3a, D3b) selected by the player. An icon (not shown) is presented on the player's computer workstation in a GUI, whereby the user can request to participate in a poker game at a desired play level. The player's participation request is transferred by the online casino website (D3a, D3b) to a game server (D2) that adjudicates and processes the request in the following manner: 1. If all existing poker games being played at the desired play level are being played by eight players, the existing games are fully occupied and the player wishing to participate is not permitted to participate. The user is informed of the situation and is advised to join the waiting list for players wishing to participate. 2. If there is an opening in one of the existing poker games being played at the desired play level, the player wishing to participate is removed from the waiting list and is permitted to participate in the game, and an appropriate GUI is presented to the newly permitted player to enable the player to play the game and place bets. The registration of the player wishing to participate is updated with data indicating the online casino website (D3a, D3b) where the player's participation in the game was approved, including details of the newly permitted player as well as the specific game in which the player is permitted. 4. When the waiting list for players wishing to participate in a game at a particular play level is full, e.g., four or five players, the game server starts a new round of the game at that level so that the players on the waiting list can participate and the list is cleared. 5. The registration of the player wishing to participate is updated with data indicating the online casino website (D3a, D3b) where the player's participation in the game was approved, including details of the newly permitted player in the newly started game as well as the specific game in which the player is permitted.

[0195] Any player can leave the ongoing poker game at any time after one round of the game. When a participating player leaves the poker game, the following actions occur due to the player's departure: 1. The GUI corresponding to the poker game on the computer workstation is replaced with one that can select the play of other casino games. 2. The details of the departing player are excluded from the active participating player registration. 3. The games with insufficient participants are terminated, and the remaining game tables are analyzed to consolidate the participating players at these tables into one table with more participants.

[0196] Any player participating in any table of the game places bets from time to time during one round of the poker game as described above and uses betting means (D17) to execute the determination of the game play required during progress. When the game finishes one round, the identification means (D18) determines which player is the winner of that round, and the application web server (D13) settles the bets placed by the players participating in that round at that table of the game: 1. The game server (D2) notifies the online casino websites (D3a, D3b) associated with the individual players who placed bets in that round of the game. The individual online websites (D3a, D3b) charge the individual accounts of the associated players by an amount equal to the bet amount of the player. 2. The settlement of the accounts of the online websites (D3a, D3b) associated with the individual players who placed bets in that round of the game is charged by an amount equal to the bet amount corresponding to the player. 3. The settlement of the accounts of the online websites (D3a, D3b) associated with the players who won the bets in that round of the game is credited by an amount equal to the total of all bets including the winning bet. 4. The game server (D2) notifies the associated online casino website (D3a, D3b) of the winning player, and that online casino website credits the personal credit account of the winning player by an amount equal to the total of all bets including the winning bet.

[0197] Bets placed by participating players in a game are made using credits purchased by the player before participating in the game. For this purpose, each online casino (D3a, D3b) includes a credit issuing means (not shown) that can issue credits to any player who wishes to participate in a poker game. Players purchase credits using traditional credits or, although not described in detail, well-known debit card payments. Whenever a player purchases credits from the credit issuing means, the corresponding online casino (D3a, D3b) credits the player's credit account with the same amount as the amount purchased by the player.

[0198] In various embodiments, the application server (D13) deducts a portion of the total amount of all bets placed in each game as a collection of operator profits for the game server (D2) and the online casino websites (D3a, D3b). A portion of this collection is credited to the settlement accounts of the individual online casinos (D3a, D3b) as a function of the proportion of players participating in the game round via a particular casino website. In a variation of this embodiment, the settlement accounts of the casinos (D3a, D3b) associated with players who placed successful bets in a game round are credited an amount equal to the total amount of all bets placed, including successful bets, less the amount of the collection. Similarly, the credit accounts of players who placed successful bets are credited an amount equal to the total amount of all bets placed, including successful bets, less the amount of the collection.

[0199] The collusion detection server (D14) maintains a recording means in the form of a collusion detection database (D20), the details of whose function will be described later. The collusion detection server (D14) operates under the control of a stored program that can record the history of individual players participating in a poker game venue at any point in time. The play history includes the amount wagered in each round of the individual games in which the player participated, along with the result of the corresponding wager. The result of the wager is considered to be the profit of the wager in the case of success and the amount of the wager that is forfeited in the case of failure. In this particular embodiment, the result of a successful wager is the total of all the amounts wagered by the participating players in a round of the poker game, minus the amount wagered by the winner and the levy. The information recorded is stored in the collusion detection database (D20).

[0200] As shown in FIG. 10, the program stored in the collusion detection server (D14) provides a ranking facility (D21) that can derive the corresponding main statistical values from the recorded play of individual players. Each time the play history of a player is updated with the results of further rounds of the games in which the player participated, the main statistical values of the player are recalculated by the ranking facility (D21). The derived main statistical values are stored in the collusion detection database (D20). The main statistical value is the win-loss ratio over all rounds of the player's games and is calculated as follows: win.times. / .times. loss.times..times. (all.times..times. hands.times..times. played)=Units+ / -na: where Units+ / - is the total of all wager results; na is the number of hands made by the player.

[0201] The stored program in the collusion detection server (D14) also provides a monitoring means for continuously monitoring the key statistics of any player in the collusion detection database (D20). If any player's key statistics change beyond a predetermined threshold, the monitoring means (D21) generates an output in the form of a flag. Such a change indicates a change in the player's playing pattern and is an indicator of possible collusion by a player worthy of further investigation. To minimize the possibility of generating false flags, the ranking facility (D21) retrieves key statistics for players whose play history exceeds 300 games recorded in the collusion detection server (D14). A particular player's win / loss ratio may vary depending on the level at which they are playing, and it is believed that players are more cautious when playing at higher levels. For this reason, the ranking facility (D21) calculates each player's key statistics for each level at which they are playing. In this case, the levels of play are: games up to $1 / $2, games from $2 / $4 to $5 / $10, games from $10 / $20 to $20 / $40, fixed limit games above $20 / $40, pot limit games, and no limit games. Thus, key statistics for a particular level of play are only derived by the ranking facility (D21) once a play history of 300 games for that particular level of play has been recorded.

[0202] The stored program in the collusion detection server (D14) also provides a control facility (D23) that acts based on the flag generated by the monitoring means (D21) by terminating the corresponding player from further participation in the poker game.

[0203] The ranking facility (D21) also calculates secondary statistic values for individual players. If the primary statistic has a positive value indicating a winning player, the first secondary statistic is the breakdown of that player's wins from other players in that game. If an excessive percentage of that player's wins come from one or more players, the monitoring means (D22) generates a flag. Such skewed winning patterns are a further indicator of collusion among winning players.

[0204] The secondary statistical value that is further calculated when showing a player whose main statistic of the player is negative and has lost is the breakdown of the losses of the player against other players in the game. When the percentage of excessive losses of the player comes from one or more players, the monitoring means (D22) generates a flag.

[0205] The secondary statistical value that is further calculated is calculated as follows: Raising with or without a raising hand = R / RH where R = total number of raises; RH = number of raising hands.

[0206] The individual game play decisions of a player to raise a previous bet are analyzed by the analysis facility (D24) connected to the game server (D2). The analysis facility (D24) evaluates whether the game play decision was optimal in light of the player's hand of cards. A ratio close to 1 indicates that the player is raising correctly. A ratio much larger than 1 indicates that the player is raising excessively with a hand that is not adapted to a raising hand. This indicates that the player is a poor player or a conspirator, and a flag is raised by the monitoring means (D22).

[0207] As a further statistical value, the losses resulting from all raises of a player are broken down and analyzed. If the loss ratio against one or more other participating players is excessively high, the monitoring means (D22) raises a flag.

[0208] The first two secondary statistical values are considered to be advantageously usable for quickly analyzing new participating players. With a record of the play history of only 20 or 30 games, these secondary statistical values are accurate enough for the monitoring means (D22) to raise a flag as needed.

[0209] Sports bet Various embodiments provide systems and methods for conducting sports and event betting. According to one aspect, the ease of using a network (e.g., the Internet, a mobile telephone system, and / or other types of networks) is combined with sports and event betting at a fixed casino. In this way, sports and other types of event betting are improved because betting becomes more convenient for bettors.

[0210] According to one embodiment, bettors place bets on a website (e.g., over the Internet and / or other types of networks) on other sports or events, including professional and college football, soccer, baseball, basketball, auto racing, ice hockey, as well as cricket, rugby, and various sports tournaments, including the NCAA men's and women's basketball championships and World Cup soccer. Other events on which bets may be placed include, for example, types of events such as selecting the winner of a reality television show (e.g., the Survivor reality show), when the first man will land on Mars, or selecting the winner of a U.S. presidential election.

[0211] According to one embodiment, a website (e.g., available via the Internet or other types of networks) includes creating a list of all bets that can be placed. According to other embodiments, a person placing a bet selects a bet made online and registers the bet with the casino. One of the advantages is evident for complex or multiple-selection events that include multiple selections of occurring events. For example, a bet that includes all of the 63 games and 54 teams of the NCAA men's basketball championship tournament is a complex bet that requires multiple event selections. As another example, the selection of a fantasy league team (e.g., regarding the National Football League) has 30 team members or positions and 60 selections for each individual position, further complicating the betting process. However, such traditional bets were limited to being made by a person placing a bet at a gaming facility. According to one aspect, a person placing a bet is permitted to bet outside of a gaming facility and legally make payments for the bet.

[0212] According to various embodiments, a person placing a bet may apply to a website operator to consider the bet. According to various embodiments, a registration number is issued by the website operator if the bet is approved. According to various embodiments, the person placing the bet then proceeds to a land-based casino operating the website and makes payment for the registered bet. According to various embodiments, by permitting a person placing a bet to actually make a payment for the bet at a land-based casino, legal issues regarding Internet betting in the United States are reduced or eliminated. This method is believed to provide convenience to a person placing a bet since the person can determine and place the bet before going to the casino. Further, since a person placing a bet is required to go to the casino for payment, such a method provides the foot traffic of customers necessary for the casino to promote play of other games to the person placing the bet.

[0213] Figure 17 shows an example of a process for placing sports and event bets according to various embodiments. In block E200, process E230 begins when a player decides to place a bet on a sport or other event. In block E202, the person placing the bet signs in to a website or other resource accessible via a communication network. In one example of the system, the player accesses a website that includes an interface (e.g., a graphical user interface (GUI)) through which the player may log on for security purposes. Further, the player is granted access to account information and / or information specific to the person placing the bet. This interface may be used to access the website or the Internet, or to access other interfaces (e.g., an interface used to access a download website for downloading betting software). The interface may be, for example, HTML, JAVA, or another type of interface.

[0214] In block E204, the person placing the bet views the bets available on the website. According to some embodiments, all or some of the possible bets may be listed. The bets that may be shown are determined by the account or bet profile of the person placing the bet (e.g., football bets are not shown to a person placing bets who has no interest in football). The available bets are also shown based on the betting behavior history of the person placing the bet.

[0215] The odds for a bet may be fixed or may vary depending on whether the bet is registered or when the bet is to be paid. For example, in the Major League Baseball World Series, the odds are 6:1 after the regular season and before the start of the playoffs, 1:1 just before the World Series begins, and 1:4 after the end of the third game of the series. For this example, the odds of a registered bet may be determined at the time of bet registration or when the bet is paid. If the odds of a registered bet are determined at the time of bet registration, a fixed casino is required to pay for bets registered within a specific period (e.g., 1 minute, 1 hour, 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, etc.), and this specific period is shortened as the sport or other event approaches.

[0216] In block E206, the person placing the bet decides to place the bet, and in block E208, the person placing the bet registers the bet. For example, bets are registered via a website (e.g., via a communication network including the Internet, a mobile phone network, etc.). The person placing the bet may place a bet listed on the website. Alternatively, or in addition to the listed offered bets, the player may submit a bet outside of the website. For example, if a bet is not listed on the website, the person placing the bet reports the specific event on which the bet is to be placed, and the person placing the bet or the website operator may determine that the bet is given to the person placing the bet for the bet.

[0217] When a website operator accepts a bet, the website may, with respect to that bet in block E210, give the bettor a registration, transaction, or confirmation number. The operator then proceeds to the land-based casino for payment in block E212. For example, the bettor may proceed to a cashier, kiosk, or the casino or other means available for paying the bet in a casino or other legal gambling jurisdiction. In block E214, the bettor presents the registration number to the casino, and the casino verifies the registration number in block E216. In block E218, the bettor pays the casino for the bet, and the bettor may receive a slip indicating the odds of the bet placed.

[0218] In block E220, an event determining the outcome of the bet is held, and the casino determines in block E222 whether the person who placed the bet is a winner. If the person who placed the bet is a winner, the casino pays in block E226. To receive the winnings, the bettor is required to return to the casino.

[0219] In block E220, there may be a case where the bettor needs to pick further on the same bet. For example, in multiple-round tournaments based on the previous results, the bettor may need to pick further for the second and other additional rounds. Such tournaments include, for example, the FIFA World Cup in soccer or the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship. In such tournaments, the bettor needs to pick for all rounds before placing the bet.

[0220] When payment is made for a registered bet, the bettor may pay, for example, with money, loyalty points, a combination thereof, or other payment methods. In particular, the bettor may pay the gaming operator or affiliated organization with money by using a debit card, credit card, check, cash, or account credit. Alternatively, or in addition to other payment methods, the bettor may pay with loyalty points from an account held with the gaming operator or affiliated organization. Loyalty points can be earned from any organization but are typically associated with loyalty programs such as frequent airline flyers, frequent hotel stays, or frequent casino visitors. The bettor may pay in person (e.g., using a cashier) or by other methods within the casino, including by phone, mobile device, or kiosk.

[0221] A computer system or game operator may automatically determine when a bettor is a winner. Such results are automatically verified and validated by the computer system. In this case, the computer system notifies the bettor whether the player has won or lost, and what kind of win it was. Notification to the bettor may be by email, computer web or network, telephone, television, fax, or any other method.

[0222] After the winner is authenticated and verified, the computer system notifies the bettor of the win. Additionally, the computer system may display the winning bet, the bettor's identity, or the payout.

[0223] Bettors may be able to replay and review past bets using audio or video implementation devices. For example, a kiosk, a phone with a display, a television, a computer, or a mobile device may be used to view past bets. By accessing selected bets in a computer system, game players may be able to view event outcomes, bet odds, and payouts.

[0224] In one embodiment, a computer system may be used to perform many actions of a bet operation, including bet capture, registration, and payment. For example, a computer system used to execute a bet function according to one embodiment may include a single or multiple computer systems, one or more of which may include a supercomputer, a minicomputer, a mainframe computer, or a personal computer. The computer system used to perform the bet operation may include any combination of computer system types that cooperate to accomplish system-level tasks. Multiple computer systems may also be used to execute one or more of the bet operations. The computer system may also include output or input devices, a display, and a storage unit to enable bet operations. Any computer system or multiple computer systems may be used, and in some embodiments, it is recognized that there are no limitations on the number, type, or configuration of the computer system.

[0225] A computer system (e.g., system E300) that executes a bet operation according to various embodiments may include, for example, one or more component systems (e.g., systems E302, E304, and / or E306 as shown in FIG. 13). One system component (e.g., payment system E302) may operate the payment by the person placing the bet. Another system component (e.g., sports betting system E306) may operate the capture and registration of bets on one or more events, including sports bets. Yet another system (e.g., pay-out system E304) may operate the pay-out to the player. Such a betting system may be connected to other computer systems (e.g., directly or via a network) including the operation of a casino or hotel loyalty program, reservation, in-room television viewing, kiosks on the gaming floor, or other systems. The connection to other computer systems may be made using one or more of the system components described below.

[0226] The payment component (e.g., system E302) may include one or more of known systems. For example, a person placing a bet may be able to pay via a casino cashier, kiosk, or other means connected to the payment computer system via an interface. In a computer, data may be stored in a database stored in the memory of the computer system. As used herein, a "data structure" is an array of data defined by a computer-readable signal. These signals may be read by a computer system and stored in a medium associated with the computer system (e.g., in memory, on a disk, etc.) and may be transmitted to one or more other computer systems on a communication medium such as a network. As used herein, a "user interface" or "UI" is an interface between a computer and a human user that enables communication between the user and the computer. Examples of UIs implemented in various embodiments include graphical user interfaces (GUIs), display screens, mice, keyboards, trackballs, microphones (e.g., used with a voice recognition system), speakers, touchscreens, game controllers (e.g., joysticks), etc., and combinations thereof.

[0227] Information about the person placing the bet is also input into the payment system component. The information about the person placing the bet that is input may include name, address, phone number, age, and the payment information may include a credit or debit card number or preferred account information. Based on the payment information, a representative at the call center may verify that the payment information is valid and that there is sufficient credit or funds available for the player's bet.

[0228] Various payment systems and one or more user interfaces may be located on a computer system that stores data on bettors, accounts, and signature information and on a computer system connected by a network. As used herein, a "network" or "communications network" is a group of one or more devices interconnected by one or more segments of a transmission medium or active communication equipment over which communications are exchanged between the devices.

[0229] The above examples are merely exemplary aspects of payment system components. There are many ways to implement a payment system, for example, variations are possible for payments made on the casino floor and are within the scope of various embodiments, so such exemplary aspects are not limiting. For example, the payment system may include a pay-per-view system for two-way television in a casino hotel, or the payment engine may also send receipts to players by email or mail. None of the following claims are limited to any particular implementation of the payment system unless the claim expressly recites that particular implementation.

[0230] Payment systems (e.g., System E304) are well known. Any of a number of standard systems, or a payment engine that pays out winnings, may be used in various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 15. For example, 'Quicken' (available from Intuit Inc., Mountain View, California, USA) may be used to issue and mail checks, or to debit or credit cards (in jurisdictions where play is legal) or deposit into a preferred account. 'Quicken' may access payment data structures via a network to obtain payment information. As used herein, an "application programming interface" or "API" is a set of computer-readable instructions that define a function, and thus such a function is configured to be executed on a computer with an application program.

[0231] ‘Quicken’ is merely an exemplary embodiment of a payment system. Many other implementations of payment systems, such as variations of online payments, are possible and are within the scope of the various embodiments, so such exemplary embodiments do not limit the scope. Further, a cashier may access payment data via a network using a user interface. The cashier then makes a payment to the winning player based on the accessed information.

[0232] Sports and event betting systems according to various embodiments (e.g., system E306 shown in FIG. 16) may include many components for performing certain functions. These components may include, for example, a storage medium that stores a data structure having information about bet events and odds. For example, this information may include event data, time, location, bets and winning history of the bettors, and event odds and their payout time dependencies. The sports and event betting system may include a component that accesses the payment and payout data structure.

[0233] The sports and betting system may also include a bet engine. The bet engine may perform functions according to, for example, process E230 shown in FIG. 17 as described above. The betting process E230 may include more or fewer actions than those shown in FIG. 17, and various embodiments are not limited to a specific number or order of actions (e.g., the order shown in FIG. 17) since the actions may be performed in other orders, may include additional actions, or one or more of the actions of process E230 may be performed continuously or in parallel with one or more other actions or portions thereof. For example, blocks E214 and E218, or portions thereof, may be performed together, and action E216 may be performed at any point in process E230 after block E214 (including after block E218).

[0234] Process E230 is merely an exemplary embodiment showing a method for performing sports or event bets. Since many other methods for performing sports or event bets may be used, such exemplary embodiments do not limit the scope. Unless the claims contain limitations explicitly describing a specific implementation, none of the claims are limited to a specific implementation of sports or event bets.

[0235] Process E230, its acts, and embodiments and variations of these methods and acts are defined by a computer-readable signal tangibly embodied in a computer-readable medium, such as a non-volatile recording medium, an integrated circuit memory element, or a combination thereof. Such a signal may define, as a result of being executed by a computer, instructions that direct the computer to execute one or more of the methods or acts described herein and / or various aspects, variations, and combinations thereof, for example as part of one or more programs. Such instructions may be written in any of a plurality of programming languages. Languages include, for example, Java, Visual Basic, C, C#, or C++, Fortran, Pascal, Eiffel, Basic, COBOL, etc., or various combinations thereof. The medium on which such instructions are stored and readable by a computer may be placed on one or more of the components of the above-described general-purpose computer or distributed across one or more of such components.

[0236] For implementing the various embodiments described herein, a computer-readable medium may be transportable so that the stored instructions are downloadable to any computer system resource. Further, the instructions stored on a computer-readable medium as described above are not limited to instructions embedded as part of an application program operating on a host computer. The instructions may be embodied as computer code (e.g., software or microcode) such as may be used to program a processor for implementing the foregoing aspects.

[0237] For example, a single component or a collection of multiple components of a computer system that performs the functions described above and is described below with reference to FIG. 11 is generally considered to be one or more controllers that control the functions described above. The one or more controllers may be implemented in various ways, such as with dedicated hardware or with a processor programmed with software or microcode for performing the above functions.

[0238] Other components of the event betting system may include software components (e.g., drivers) that stream video to a user over a broadband, satellite, or wireless medium. If the game is played completely automatically, the user interface may be simply a video terminal including a television without user input means. Access for viewing may be controlled by standard conditional access methods including the use of a set-top box address, a telephone number, or an Internet Protocol (IP) address.

[0239] The foregoing are only exemplary embodiments of sports and event betting systems. Since many other sports and event betting systems, such as variations of conditional access, are possible and within the scope of various embodiments, such exemplary embodiments do not limit the scope. None of the following claims are limited to a particular implementation of a sports and event betting system if the claims do not include limitations that expressly recite a particular implementation.

[0240] System E300 and components of system E300 such as payment, payout, and bet engines may be implemented using software (e.g., C, C#, Java, or combinations thereof), hardware (e.g., one or more application-specific integrated circuits, processors, or other hardware), firmware (e.g., electrically programmable memory), or combinations thereof. One or more components of E300 may be on a single system (e.g., a payment subsystem), or one or more components may be on independent, individual systems. Further, individual components may be distributed across multiple systems and one or more systems may be interconnected.

[0241] Further, on each of one or more systems including one or more components of E300, the individual components may be in one or more locations. For example, different portions of component E300 may be in different regions of memory (e.g., RAM, ROM, disk, etc.). Each of such one or more systems may include, among other components, a plurality of known components such as one or more processors, a memory system, a disk storage system, one or more network interfaces, and internal communication links that interconnect one or more buses or other various components.

[0242] System E300 may be implemented on a computer system as described below with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0243] System E300 is merely an illustration of one embodiment of a game system. Many other sports and event systems, such as variations of E300, are possible and within the scope of various embodiments, so such exemplary embodiments do not limit the scope. For example, a bed with a two-way TV that can also be used may be seen. None of the claims below are limited to a particular implementation if the claims do not include limitations that explicitly recite a particular implementation.

[0244] Various embodiments may be implemented on one or more computer systems. These computer systems may be, for example, general-purpose computers based on processors such as Intel PENTIUM type processors, Motorola PowerPC, Sun UltraSPARC, Hewlett Packard PA-RIK processors, or other types of processors. Any type of one or more computer systems may be used to partially or fully automate the play of games according to various embodiments. Further, the software design system may be located on a single computer or distributed among multiple computers attached to a communication network.

[0245] For example, various embodiments may be implemented as specialized software executed within a general-purpose computer system E400 as shown in FIG. 11. The computer system E400 may include a processor E403 connected to one or more memory devices E404 such as a disk drive, memory, or other device for data storage. The memory E404 is generally used to store programs and data during operation of the computer system E400. The components of the computer system E400 may be connected by an interconnect mechanism E405 that includes one or more buses (e.g., components integrated within the same machine), and / or a network (e.g., between components on separate discrete machines). The interconnect mechanism E405 enables communication (e.g., data, instructions) to be communicated between the system components of the system E400. The computer system E400 also includes one or more input devices E402 such as, for example, a keyboard, mouse, trackball, microphone, touch screen, and one or more output devices E401 such as, for example, a printing device, display screen, or speaker. Further, the computer system E400 may include one or more interfaces (not shown) that connect the computer system E400 to a communication network (in addition to or as an alternative to the interconnect mechanism E405).

[0246] The memory device E406 shown in FIG. 12 generally includes a non-volatile recording medium E501 that stores a program executed by a processor or a signal that defines information stored on or in a medium E501 and processed by the program, and that can be read from and written to by a computer. This medium may be, for example, a disk or a flash memory. Generally during operation, the processor reads data from the non-volatile recording medium E501 and moves it to another memory E502 that is faster for the processor to access data than the medium E501. This memory E502 is generally a non-volatile random access memory such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or a static memory (SRAM). It may be installed in the illustrated memory system 406 or a memory system E404 not shown. The processor E403 generally manipulates data in the integrated circuit memories E404, E502 and copies the data to the medium E501 after processing is complete. Various mechanisms for managing data movement between the medium E501 and the integrated circuit memory elements E402, E502 are known.

[0247] The computer system may include specially programmed application-specific hardware, such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Various features or aspects may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. Further, such methods, acts, system elements, and their components may be implemented as part of the computer system described above or as independent components.

[0248] The computer system E400 is shown for illustrative purposes as one type of computer system in which various embodiments are implemented, but the embodiments are not limited to implementation on a computer system as shown in FIG. 11. Various embodiments may be implemented on one or more computers having different configurations or components as shown in FIG. 11.

[0249] Computer system E400 may be a general-purpose computer system that can be programmed using a high-level computer programming language. Computer system E400 may also be implemented using specially programmed, application-specific hardware. In computer system E400, processor E403 is typically a commercial off-the-shelf processor, such as the well-known Pentium-class processors available from Intel Corporation. Such processors run operating systems such as, for example, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, and Windows 2000 (Windows ME) available from Microsoft Corporation, the MAC OS system available from Apple Computer, the Solaris operating system available from Sun Microsystems, or UNIX, available from a variety of sources.

[0250] The processor and operating system define a computer platform for applications written in a high-level programming language. Various embodiments are not limited to a particular computer system platform, processor, operating system, or network. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various embodiments are not limited to a particular programming language or computer system. Furthermore, other suitable programming languages and other suitable computer systems may be used.

[0251] Portions or more of the computer system may be distributed across computer systems (not shown) connected to one or more communications networks. These computer systems may be general-purpose computer systems. For example, various embodiments may be distributed among one or more computers configured to provide services (e.g., servers) to one or more client computers or to perform overall tasks as part of a distributed system. For example, various embodiments may be implemented on a client-server system with components distributed among one or more server systems that perform various functions according to various embodiments. These components may be executable in intermediate (e.g., IL) or translation code (e.g., Java) that communicate over a network (e.g., the Internet) using a communications protocol (e.g., TCP / IP).

[0252] Various embodiments are not limited to running on any particular system or group of systems. Various embodiments are not limited to any particular distribution configuration, network, or communication protocol. Various embodiments may be programmed using an object-oriented programming language such as SmallTalk, Java, C++, Ada, or C# (C-Sharp). Other object-oriented programming languages may also be used. Alternatively, functional, scripting, and / or logic programming languages may be used. Various embodiments may be implemented in a non-programmed environment (e.g., a document created in HTML, XML, or other format that, when viewed in a browser program window, provides the appearance of a graphical user interface (GUI) or performs other functionality). Various embodiments may be implemented as programmed or non-programmed elements, or any combination thereof.

[0253] While several exemplary embodiments have been described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that they have been presented by way of example only, and that the foregoing description is illustrative only and not limiting. Many variations and other exemplary embodiments are within the purview of those skilled in the art and are contemplated within the scope of the various embodiments. In particular, while many of the examples described herein include specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that other combinations of these acts and elements are possible to achieve the same purpose.

[0254] Confirm to the player that the event was random Various embodiments may provide a means for verifying the integrity and authenticity of random events used in online casino games.

[0255] Various embodiments may provide a method for using pre-generated random event sequences for running an online game.

[0256] Various embodiments may provide a method for sending a pre-generated random event sequence to a user in an encrypted and / or digested manner so that the user cannot predict the random event sequence in an online casino game.

[0257] Various embodiments may provide the player with a cryptographic key and the original random event sequence at the end of a game session to verify the pre-generated random event sequence by comparing the decrypted and stored random event sequence with the original random event sequence, thereby authenticating the random events used in the online game.

[0258] Various embodiments may provide a way to send pre-generated random event sequences to a user so that the user can reconstruct the random events after a game session is completed.

[0259] Various embodiments may provide a method for authenticating a pre-generated random event sequence of an online casino game. In a preferred embodiment, a user sets up communication with an online casino to request a game session. The user requests a game to play in an online casino game from a list such as blackjack, roulette, craps, etc. When the user finishes selecting a game, the online casino receives the request and starts a game session. For each individual game, there are a certain number and type of expected random events necessary to play the game session to the end or to end the game session at the user's discretion. Each individual random event represents an action that occurs in a real casino such as drawing a card or rolling a die. The online casino comprises a random number generator that pre-generates the expected number of random events and places the random events in a random event sequence. The random event sequence is encoded in an encryption sequence and transmitted to the user who stores the encryption sequence until the game verification stage. With regard to the encryption step, the random event sequence may be converted to a digital digest and transmitted to the user, or may first be encrypted, converted to a digital digest, and then transmitted.

[0260] At this stage of the game session, the user cannot understand the pre-generated and encrypted random event sequence received from the online casino. Also, the online casino need not worry about the user being able to illegally predict the sequence of future random events. The user requests random events from the online casino to start playing a particular game. The online casino receives these requests from the user and responds by sending the user the next number drawn in sequence from the pre-generated random event sequence. The events from the random sequence are consumed by the online casino during the game session. The user records all the random events received from the online casino. When the number of random events in the pre-generated sequence is exhausted, or when the user indicates an intention to end the game session, the online casino communicates "Game Over" to the user and the game ends.

[0261] Next, the online casino sends the user an encryption key for game verification in order to prove the integrity of the game. The encryption key permits the user to decrypt the encrypted random event sequence sent at the start of the game session. The user decrypts the encrypted random event sequence, and the decrypted event sequence is compared with the record of the random event sequence sent by the online casino and saved by the user. If the sequences are identical, the random event sequence was not changed or tampered with by the online casino during the game session. If the random event sequence recorded by the user is different from the random event sequence presented by the online casino, the verification fails. The user communicates the failure to the online casino and appropriate action is taken.

[0262] A game session may be played by one or more players. The online casino sends the same pre-generated encryption sequence to individual participants, causes the participants to re-edit an individual random event sequence into the originally pre-generated random event sequence, and compares the random event sequence sent by the online casino for verification purposes with the re-edited random event sequence.

[0263] Various embodiments are described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 21. They generally disclose a method for ensuring the credibility and integrity of online games, and more specifically, a method for authenticating a pre-generated random event sequence in an online casino game.

[0264] Referring to FIG. 18, in a preferred embodiment, to request a game session that is identical to the actual game, the user sets up communication with the online casino at F10. The user has the necessary computer, customer game software, and the hardware required for communication settings between the other basic tools and the casino line. The online casino may be a single computer operating as a game server, or several computers where the database and the processor are in different locations. The user requests a game to play on the online casino during the game session by selecting from the available game list. The list of common games to play during the game session may include the following games: blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, slot machines, lottery, sports betting, and poker. Various embodiments are not limited to these games and may also include games not included in the above list.

[0265] When the user finishes selecting a game and communicates the selected game to the online casino, the online casino receives the request and starts a game session F12. For each individual game, there are a certain number and type of expected random events necessary to play the game to the end or, at the user's discretion, end the game session. Each individual random event represents an action that occurs in a real casino, such as drawing a card or rolling a die. For example, in the case of a blackjack game, the type of random event that occurs during the game is the action of drawing a card. The number of random events in a single game session generally does not exceed 10,000. Events from the random sequence are consumed by the online casino during the game session. The online casino is equipped with a random number generator that pre-generates random events F14.

[0266] The online casino generates the expected number of random events and places those random events into a random event sequence that is a set of random events generated for the game session F16. The random event sequence is encoded into an encrypted sequence F18 and then sent to the user who stores the encrypted sequence until the game verification stage F20. Any known encryption method that is utilized can be used to encrypt the random event sequence. As shown in Figures 19 and 20 respectively, for the encryption step, the random event sequence may be converted to a digital digest and sent to the user, or it may first be encrypted, then converted to a digital digest, and sent to the user.

[0267] Referring back to FIG. 18, at this stage of the game session, the user cannot understand the pre-generated and encrypted sequence, and the online casino does not need to worry about the user predicting the future random event sequence. Subsequently, the user requests a random event from the online casino to start playing a specific game F22. The online casino receives these requests from the user and responds by sending the user the next number sequentially drawn from the pre-generated random event sequence. The user records all the random events received from the online casino F24. The user may manually record the random events as a function of the customer game software or other known recording methods. When the number of random events in the pre-generated sequence is exhausted, or when the user indicates an intention to end the game session, the online casino communicates "Game Over" to the user and the game ends F26.

[0268] The online casino then sends the user an encryption key for game verification to prove the integrity of the game F28. The encryption key enables the user to decrypt the encrypted random event sequence sent to the user at the start of the game session. The user decrypts the encrypted random event sequence F30, and the encrypted random event sequence is compared with the record that it is the random event sequence sent by the online casino at the start of the game session held by the user F32. The user may manually compare the random events as a function of the customer game software or other known recording methods. If the sequences are identical, the game is fair F34 and the random event sequence has not been changed or tampered with during the game period. If the verification fails, the user communicates the failure to the online casino and appropriate measures are taken.

[0269] As shown in FIG. 17, in the encryption step, the online casino may encrypt a randomly generated event sequence that has been pre-generated using a digital digest. Before the online casino sends the digital digest to the user F38, it converts the random event sequence into a digital digest F36. A specific game is played F22. The user records random events during the game session F24. When the game ends F26, the online casino sends the undigested random event sequence to the user F40. The user then converts the undigested random events into a digital digest and compares this digital digest with the digital digest sent by the casino at the start of the game to verify the authenticity of the random event sequence sent by the online casino F42. For the verification to succeed, the two digital digests need to be identical. When the random event sequence sent by the online casino is thus verified, the user proceeds to verify the random event sequence sent by the casino during the game session F44 by comparing the verified undigested random event sequence sent by the online casino at the end of the game with the random event sequence held by the user.

[0270] For the verification to succeed, the two random event sequences must not be identical. Similarly, the comparison can be performed manually by the player or by customer software. If the sequences are identical, the game is fair F46 and no changes or tampering of the random event sequence occurred during the game session. If the verification fails, the user communicates the failure to the online casino and appropriate action is taken.

[0271] Referring to FIG. 20, an online casino may signal a pre-generated random event sequence through initial encryption and then convert the encrypted sequence into a digital digest to complete the signaling step. The online casino encrypts the random event sequence and converts it into a digital digest F48 before transmitting it to the user F50. A particular game is played F22. The user records the random events during the game session F24. When the game ends F26, the online casino transmits the undigested random event sequence in encrypted form to the user. The online casino also transmits an encryption key F52 to the user. The user first authenticates the encrypted random event sequence by converting it into a digital digest and comparing it with the digital digest transmitted at the beginning of the game session F54. The random event sequence is decrypted F56 and compared to the user's record of the random event sequence transmitted by the online casino F58. The user comparison can be performed manually or by customer game software. For verification to be successful, the sequences must be identical. If the sequences are identical, the game is fair and the random event sequence has not been changed or tampered with during the game session. If the verification fails, the user communicates the failure to the online casino, which takes appropriate action.

[0272] Using the above method, the encrypted sequence is generated in advance and sent to the user before the start of the game session, eliminating the opportunity for the online casino to change the event sequence in response to the user's actions or steps during the game, so the user can be confident that the random event sequence was generated without any fraudulent activity or information from the online casino.

[0273] Referring to FIG. 21, a game session may be executed by one or more players F62. The online casino may send the same pre-generated sequence (e.g., an encrypted sequence representing the same card deck) to individual participants. Each user must be able to access the random event sequence received by other users during the game session. At the end of the game session, the user comprehensively compares the received random event sequence with the random event sequence sent by the online casino at the start of the game session to confirm that the sequence has not been changed.

[0274] Embodiments for verifying the credibility and integrity of online games have been described, but the described features are applicable to any electronic game or technology that requires authentication of a random event sequence. Thus, the above features and aspects are not to be construed as limiting.

[0275] Team Various embodiments relate to a computerized system that implements team play in a card game. The computerized system includes at least a first computer for use by a first participant of a first team, a second computer for use by a second participant of a second team, a third computer for use by a third participant of the first team, and a fourth computer for use by a fourth participant of the second team. A computer network interconnects the first and second computers, enabling the first and second participants to compete for team points in a first set of the card game. Similarly, the computer network interconnects the third and fourth computers, enabling the third and fourth participants to compete for team points in a second set of the card game. A central server computer connected to the computer network coordinates the first, second, third, and fourth computers and accounts for the team points obtained by the participants of the individual teams to calculate a total team score for each team. Preferably, the central server computer also calculates the team points individually obtained by the first, second, third, and fourth participants. The computer network described above may be in the form of a local area network, assuming that the computers are located relatively close to each other, such as within a casino. Alternatively, the computer network may be the Internet if one or more of these computers are located remotely from the others.

[0276] Incorporated by reference The following are hereby incorporated by reference: U.S. Patent 6,375,568; U.S. Patent 6,575,834; U.S. Patent 5,800,268; U.S. Patent Application 20070015587 U.S. Patent 6,319,125; U.S. Patent 5,655,961; U.S. Patent Application 20060194633; U.S. Patent Application 20060189381: U.S. Patent Application 20060172803; U.S. Patent Application 20060094497; and U.S. Patent Application 20060089189

[0277] Mobile game The following reference numbers apply only to FIGS. 22 to 34 unless otherwise specified.

[0278] In various embodiments, the distribution gaming system enables participants to participate in gaming activities from remote locations and / or on the move. Possible gaming activities include gambling provided by casinos. Gambling activities include any type of casino-type gambling activity and include, but are not limited to, the following: slot machines, video poker, table games (e.g., craps, roulette, blackjack, pai gow poker, Caribbean stud poker, baccarat, etc.), spinning wheel fortune games, sports betting, horse racing, dog racing, jai alai, and other gambling activities. Gaming activities include wagering on any type of event. Events include, for example, sports events such as horse racing or auto racing, and athletic competitions such as football, basketball, baseball, golf, etc. Events include those that are not normally wagered on. Such events include political elections, awards in the entertainment industry, movie box office results, and others. Games also include non-wagering games and events. Games include lottery or lottery-type activities such as state and multi-state lotteries. These include number selection lotteries, scratch-off lotteries, and other lottery drawing contests. The gaming system may be implemented over a communication network such as a mobile network or an individual's wireless and / or wired network. Examples of the latter include WiFi and WiMax networks. In some embodiments, the gaming system communication network is completely independent of the Internet. In some embodiments, the operation of the gaming system minimizes the use of the Internet such that only information that is not a security concern is transmitted over the Internet and / or the information is encrypted. In various embodiments, the communication network enables players to participate in games from remote locations (e.g., outside the gaming area of a casino). The system enables players to move while participating in gaming activities. In various embodiments, the system has a location verification or determination feature that permits or disallows participation in games from remote locations based on whether the location meets one or more criteria. The criteria may be, for example, whether the location is within a predetermined area where gambling is legally permitted.

[0279] For example, as shown in FIG. 22, the game system 10 may include at least one user 12. The system may include additional users such that there are at least a first user 12 and a second user 14. A plurality of other users may access the first game system 10 to a second game system (not shown) that is in communication with the first game system. Users 12 and 13 may access the system 10 using a game communication device 13. The game communication device 13 may include any suitable device for transmitting and receiving electronic communications. Such devices include, without limitation, mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), computers, minicomputers, and the like. The game communication device 13 transmits game information to the communication network 16 and receives it from the communication network 16. The game information is communicated between the network 16 and a computer 18 such as a server within the realm of the game service provider 20. The location of the computer 18 is flexible, but the computer 18 may be installed near or away from the game service provider 20. Various embodiments may not include a game service provider. The computer 18 and / or the game service provider 20 may be installed inside, near, or away from a game provider (not shown in FIG. 22). The game service provider may be the actual controller of a game such as a casino. As an example, the game service provider may be installed on the casino premises, and the computer 18 may be within the geographical boundaries of the game service provider. However, as described above, there are other possibilities for remote locations of the computer 18 and the game service provider 20. The computer 18 may function as a game server. Additional computers (not explicitly indicated) may function, for example, as database management computers and redundant servers.

[0280] In various embodiments, the software is on the game communication device 13 and on the computer 18. The software on the game communication device 13 may be capable of presenting information corresponding to game activities (including the gambling and non-gambling activities described herein). The information may include, without limitation, graphical depictions of objects related to the activity, and depictions of options related to the activity that are selectable by the user. The game communication device may be able to receive data from the computer and data input by the user. The software on the computer may exchange data with the game communication device, access additional computers and data storage devices, and be able to perform all of the functions described herein in addition to the functions generally known as an electronic game system.

[0281] The game information transmitted over network 16 may include any information necessary or desirable for the operation of the game experience in which the user participates, in any format. The information may be in whole or in combination and may be transmitted in any format including digital or analog, text or voice, for example, based on known or future transfer technologies including wired or wireless technologies. The wireless technologies may include, for example, licensed or license-exempt technologies. Specific technologies that may be used include, without limitation, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), WiFi (802.11x), WiMax (802.16x), Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), Digital Subscriber line (DSL), Integrated Service Digital Network (ISDN), or cable modem technology. These are merely examples, and those skilled in the art will understand that other communication technologies are also possible. Further, it is understood that additional components may be used for the communication of information between the user and the game server. Such additional components include, without limitation, lines, tracks, antennas, switches, cables, transmitters, receivers, computers, routers, servers, fiber optic communication devices, repeaters, amplifiers, etc.

[0282] In some embodiments, the communication of game information is performed without the involvement of the Internet. However, in some embodiments, a portion of the game information may be transmitted over the Internet. All or some portion of the game information may be partially transmitted over the Internet communication path. In some embodiments, certain information is transmitted in whole or in part over the Internet, but that information is non-game information or game information that does not require confidentiality. For example, data depicting a graphical representation of a table game on the user's game communication device is Although at least partially transmitted over the Internet, on the other hand, the betting information transmitted by the user is completely transmitted over a non-Internet communication network.

[0283] According to some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 23 for example, the communication network includes a mobile communication network 22. The mobile communication network 22 includes a plurality of base stations 23, and each individual base station has a corresponding service area 25. Base station technology is generally known, and the base station may be of any type found in a general mobile communication network. The base stations may have overlapping service areas. Further, the service area may or may not be sectioned. The network includes a mobile station 24, and the mobile station functions as a game communication device used by the user to access the game system and participate in activities available in the game system. The user is connected to the network of base stations by transmitting and receiving radio signals. The communication network also includes at least one voice data switch connected to the wireless part of the network via a dedicated secure landline. The communication network may also include a game service provider connected to the voice data switch via a similar dedicated secure landline. The voice data switch may be connected to the wireless network of the base stations via, for example, a mobile switching center (MSC), and the landline is provided between the voice data switch and the MSC.

[0284] The user accesses the game system by means of a mobile station that is part of the communication network during communication. The mobile station may be any communication device that operates in connection with the network as described above. For example, in this particular embodiment, the mobile station includes a mobile phone.

[0285] In various embodiments, for example in the case of a mobile communication network, the game system can be made executable by the use of a personal level carrier network. Each base station is programmed by a cellular carrier to receive personal secure voice and / or data transmissions from and transmit to a mobile station handset. The handset may be pre-programmed with both game software and carrier authentication software. The base station communicates with a switch via a private T1 line. The game service provider leases a private T1 or T3 line that returns calls to a game server managed by the game service provider. Encryption is set on the telephone if required by a game regulatory body such as a game commission.

[0286] The mobile communication network may be a private, closed system. The mobile station communicates with a base station, which is connected to a central switch within the game jurisdiction area. Voice calls at the switch are transmitted locally or long distance. Game traffic for a particular service provider is transmitted from the central switch to a game server at a host location, which may be a casino or other location.

[0287] When a participant starts a particular game application, the handset communicates only with a particular base station that has cells or sectors designed to be entirely within the game jurisdiction area. For example, if the base station is not close enough to capture or send signals on the state line, the base station cannot communicate with the device. If a customer uses the device for a game, the system may, if desired, prohibit making and receiving voice calls. Further, voice is completely excluded if requested. Additionally, the device is not permitted to connect to the Internet. This ensures at a high level that bets start and end within the boundaries of the game jurisdiction area and that private radio systems cannot be bypassed or circumvented. In some embodiments, some of the data and / or voice traffic is communicated at least partially over the Internet, while in other embodiments the communication path does not include the Internet. Alternatively, in some embodiments, certain non-game information may be communicated over a path that includes the Internet, while other information related to the game activities of the system is communicated over a path that does not include the Internet.

[0288] As shown in FIG. 24, the game communication device 32 communicates with a game service provider over a network 34. The game service provider preferably owns one or more servers on which various games and other applications are placed. As shown in FIG. 24, some examples of game applications include horse racing and other sports, financial exchanges, casinos and / or virtual casinos, entertainment and other event exchanges, news and real-time entertainment. Each of these applications may be implemented by one or more software modules. The applications may be combined in any possible combination. Further, it should be understood that these applications are not exhausted and that other applications may be provided to the user to provide an environment related to any of the described or potential activities.

[0289] In other embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 25, the communication network includes a private wireless network. The private wireless network may include, for example, 802.11x (WiFi) network technology that covers a "game spot" or an "entertainment spot". In FIG. 25, various WiFi networks are shown as network 41. Network 41 may use other communication protocols that provide a private wireless network including, but not limited to, 802.16x (WiMax) technology. Further, networks 41 may be interconnected. Also, the game system may include a combination of networks as shown in FIG. 25. For example, a combination of private wireless network 16, a mobile communication network including a multi-channel access unit or a sectorized base station 42, and a satellite network including one or more satellites 46 are shown.

[0290] Regarding the private wireless network, since this technology covers a small area and provides a very high information volume, the private wireless network is particularly suitable for a game committee that requires location and identification verification for game service providers. Game spots enabled by network 41 include current casino areas 48, new areas such as swimming pools, lakes, or other recreation areas 49, restaurants such as those in guest rooms and casinos 48 or hotels 45 and 47, and other remote game areas 43. The overall configuration of the game system depicted in FIG. 25 is merely illustrative and may be modified to suit various embodiments.

[0291] In some embodiments, the system configuration of the game system includes the following: (1) A wireless LAN (Local Access Network) component generally consisting of 802.11x (WiFi) and / or 802.16x WiMax technology; highly resistant security and authentication software; game software; a handset with a built-in Windows (registered trademark) or Symbian (registered trademark) operating system and certified by a mobile carrier; and (a)CDMA technology that is secure against over-the-air data protection; (b)At least two layers of user authentication (provided by the mobile carrier and provided by the game service provider); (c)Forced tunneling to the game server (static routing); (d)End-to-end encryption at the application layer; and (e)Current state-of-the-art firewall and DMZ technology; (2)MWAN (Metropolitan Wireless Access Network) consisting of licensed or license-exempt point-to-point links and licensed or license-exempt point-to-multipoint technologies (3)T1 and T3 lines of a private MAN (Metropolitan Access Network) that supply connections to locations where wireless services do not reach (4)Redundant-configured private line communication returning from the mobile switch to the game server Each "game spot" or "entertainment spot" is preferably connected to a central and redundant game server via MWAN / MAN. To access the private wireless network 41, the game communication device may be a PDA or a mini laptop executed by WiFi or WiMax and does not have to be managed by a third-party partner.

[0292] In various embodiments, the game system includes location verification features that allow or disallow games from remote locations based on whether the location meets one or more criteria. The criteria may be, for example, whether the location is within a predefined location where gaming is legally permitted. As another example, the criteria may be whether the location is a non-gaming zone such as a school. The location verification technology used in the system may include, without limitation, "network-based" and / or "satellite-based" technologies. Network-based technologies may include, for example, multilateration, triangulation, and geofencing. Satellite-based technologies may include, for example, Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology.

[0293] As described above, the mobile phone approach may include the use of at least one mobile phone and a mobile communication voice and data network. For games in a jurisdiction such as Nevada, for example, technologies such as triangulation, Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology, and / or geofencing may be included to avoid the possibility of betting or wagering outside the Nevada state border. In some embodiments, the network does not cover all of a particular jurisdiction such as Nevada. For example, the network does not cover areas where the service area of a mobile phone of a particular base station straddles a state border or the border of another jurisdiction. This is to allow the use of location verification to prevent the opportunity for the start or end of a bet to occur outside the state. Triangulation is used as a method to prevent gaming from an unrecognized location. Triangulation is performed, for example, by comparing the signal strengths from a single mobile station received by multiple base stations each having GPS coordinates. This technology may be used to pinpoint the location of the mobile station. The location is compared with a map or other data to determine if the mobile station is in an unrecognized area, such as a school. Alternatively, GPS technology may be used for this purpose.

[0294] As shown in FIG. 26, the game system includes a plurality of game communication devices 54, 55, 56. Both devices 55 and 56 are located within the game jurisdiction area. However, only device 56 is located within a geofence 57 set by the service areas of a plurality of base stations 53. In this way, geofencing may be used to permit games via device 56 while making games via devices 54 and 55 impossible. Some game communication devices within a game jurisdiction area 58 such as device 55 are not permitted access to the game system, but the geofence 57 ensures that game communication devices outside the jurisdiction area 58 such as device 54 are not permitted access.

[0295] Geofencing does not identify a location. Rather, it ensures that a mobile station is within a certain boundary. For example, geofencing is used to ensure that mobile stations crossing a state border do not access the game system. On the other hand, triangulation identifies a pinpoint or near-pinpoint location. For example, as shown in FIG. 26, device 56 is triangulated among three of the base stations 53 to determine the location of device 56. Triangulation may be used to identify whether a device such as a mobile station is located at a particular spot where gambling is not permitted (e.g., like a school). Any type of location verification such as triangulation, geofencing, Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology, or other location determination technologies may be used to convince the user at an acceptable level of confidence that they are within a permitted game area. Geographical Institute Survey (GIS) mapping may be utilized to compare the identified coordinates of a game communication device with GIS map features or elements to determine whether the device is within a non-permitted game area.

[0296] In various embodiments, location verification is performed by channel address checking or location verification using other identification numbers or information indicating which network or which part of a network is being accessed by a gaming communication device. Assuming the use of an identification number for this purpose, according to the location verification method, for example, a participant accesses a game system via a mobile phone. The identification number of the mobile phone or the network component being accessed by the mobile phone identifies the caller's connection to the mobile network. That number indicates that the caller is within a defined area and on a particular mobile network. The server application may be on the mobile phone to communicate this information via the network to a game service provider. In some embodiments, the identification number or information may be transferred from a first network provider to a second network provider. For example, the caller's home network may be provided by a second provider, but the caller roams on a network (within the jurisdiction) provided by a first provider. The first provider transfers the identification information to the second provider so that the second provider can determine whether the caller is within a permitted or non-permitted defined area for the relevant gaming activity. In various embodiments, the game service provider maintains or accesses a database that maps numbers identifying various mobile communication networks around the world to geographical areas. In various embodiments, the use of a number or proxy indicating the network, part of the network, or network component connected to the mobile phone is contemplated. The identification number may represent one or more base stations, base station groups, lines, channels, tracks, switches, routers, repeaters, etc.

[0297] In various embodiments, when a user connects a mobile phone to a game server, the game server extracts network identification information and communicates that information to a game service provider. Software in the game communication device may incorporate a function to determine the user's location (at least partially based on identification information) upon the user's login or access and send a message to the game service provider. The identification number or information used for location determination may be specific to a country, state, city, or other definable boundary.

[0298] In connection with any of the location determination methods, the game system may periodically update the location determination information. The update may be performed at predetermined time intervals during a game session, for example, to ensure that movement of the game communication device into a restricted area is detected not only at login or initial access but also during play.

[0299] Thus, depending on the location determination technology used, a decision may be made to permit or prohibit game activity in any component of the long - distance communication network used to transmit information between the game communication device, the game server, or between the game communication device and the game server (such as a base station).

[0300] As one aspect of a private wireless network related to preventing games in a restricted area, there is an installation of a sensor, such as attaching a radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor to the game communication device. When the user takes the device outside the game - permitted area, the sensor emits an alarm. Further, the device may be connected to an immovable object. The user logs in to such a device using an ID and password.

[0301] In various embodiments, the game system may include the ability to determine the location of game communication devices within a large building such as a casino complex. This adds the ability to enable or disable the device based on its location within the building. For example, government regulations prohibit the use of gambling devices from casino complex guest rooms. Accordingly, certain embodiments may include the ability to determine the location of a device within the building and disable the gambling function of the device from a guest room or other area where gambling is prohibited. FIG. 27 shows an example of a wireless game system in which the location of game communication device 604 is determined according to various embodiments.

[0302] As shown in FIG. 27, the wireless game system includes a wireless network that at least partially covers a casino complex 600 in which one or more game communication devices 604 are used to participate in various game activities. Various embodiments may include fewer than three or more signal detection devices, but the wireless network may include at least three signal detection devices 602. As shown in FIG. 27, the wireless network includes four signal detection devices 602, each located at a corner of the casino complex 600. In various embodiments, these signal detection devices may include wireless access points, wireless routers, wireless base stations, satellites, or other suitable signal detection devices. Further, although the signal detection device 602 is illustrated as being located at the boundary of the casino complex 600, the signal detection device may be located anywhere inside or outside the casino complex 600 as long as it can receive signals from the game communication device 604 within the casino complex 600. In various embodiments, the signal detection device 602 may be used to transmit signals to the game communication device 604 as well as receive them.

[0303] In various embodiments, the casino complex 600 may be divided into one or more zones 608 representing different areas of the casino complex, such as a lobby, guest rooms, restaurants, shops, entertainment areas, or pool areas. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, zone 608a may correspond to the casino lobby, zone 608b may correspond to the guest rooms, zone 608c may correspond to the restaurants, and zone 608d may correspond to the game floor of the casino. Each individual zone 608 may be further divided into one or more sub - zones 606 that identify specific locations within the zone 608. The sub - zones 606 may each be arranged in a grid - like configuration of uniform size. In some embodiments, an individual sub - zone may be nine square feet (i.e., three feet by three feet). In some embodiments, an individual sub - zone may be ten square feet (i.e., ten feet by ten feet). The choice of the area size covered by the sub - zones is determined by the preferences of the administrator, the technical constraints of the wireless network, government regulations, and other considerations.

[0304] Certain embodiments may use a map that divides the casino complex 600 into a plurality of zones 608 and sub - zones 606 to determine the location of the game communication device 604 within the complex. These embodiments may utilize signals received by the signal detection device 602 from the game communication device 604 to determine the location of the device.

[0305] In various embodiments, the location of the game communication 604 may be determined based on the signal strength received from the device 604 by individual signal detection devices 602. In various embodiments, the signal strength determination may be performed using either a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) value or other suitable indicator indicating signal strength. Generally, the closer a subzone is to a signal detection device, the stronger the signal the signal detection device receives from the game communication device located in that subzone. Thus, when a plurality of signal strength readings are obtained from different points (e.g., signal detection devices 602) within the casino complex, these different signal strength readings may be used to determine the location of the device. With this in mind, individual subzones 606 may be associated with a reference set of signal strengths received by the signal detection device from the device located in this particular subzone. Generally, reference readings are obtained from the game communication devices located in the subzones and these values are generated and calibrated periodically. After individual subzones are associated with a reference set of signal strengths, these reference signal strengths may be compared to the signal strengths received from the game communication device by the signal detection device. Since individual subzones have their own set of signal strengths, this comparison may be used to identify the particular zone in which the game communication device is located.

[0306] In various embodiments, the location of the game communication device 604 may be determined based on the elapsed time between the signal transmission from the device 604 and the signal reception by individual signal detection devices 602. In various embodiments, this elapsed time may be determined based on time difference of arrival (TDOA) or other suitable techniques. As in the case of signal strength, individual subzones 606 may be associated with a pre-determined or reference elapsed time from the signal transmission from the game communication device to reception. Since the time it takes for a signal to arrive at an individual signal detection device depends on the proximity of the subzone to the individual base station, this set of elapsed times will be different for each individual subzone of the casino complex. By comparing the time from signal transmission to reception of the signal from the game communication device by the signal detection device, the subzone in which the device is located is determined.

[0307] Once the location of the game communication device is determined, certain embodiments may enable and / or disable certain functions of the device based on this determination. For example, as described above, certain embodiments may disable the function of the gambling communication device from conducting gambling in the user's guest room, while enabling other functions of the device such as the user purchasing goods or services, or purchasing tickets for entertainment events. When the user leaves the guest room, the gambling function of the game communication device may be enabled. Similarly, certain embodiments may prevent the game communication device from being used for financial transactions from the game casino floor. When the user leaves the casino floor, such a function may be enabled. Similarly, other functions of the game communication device may be enabled or disabled according to various embodiments based on the location of the device within the building.

[0308] In various embodiments, various functions of the game communication device may be enabled or disabled based on the zone 608 in which the device is located. In such embodiments, the individual zones 608 of the casino complex may be associated with a set of permitted activities. For example, all activities may be permitted in the lobby zone 608a of the casino complex, while all activities except gambling may be permitted in the guest room zone 608b of the building. Depending on the location of the game communication device, the functions of the game communication device may be limited to the set of activities permitted for the zone in which the device is located. Since the game communication device moves from zone to zone, the location of the device may be re-determined and the functions of the device may be updated to reflect the set of activities permitted in the zone where the device is currently located.

[0309] Various embodiments may use location determination to send location-specific information to the game communication device. For example, when the device (and thus the user) is located in another part of the casino complex, a notification that an entertainment event for which the user has a ticket is starting may be sent to the user's device. In other embodiments, when the user is in the guest room, the user may be notified that the user's favorite dealer is on the casino floor.

[0310] In various embodiments, the game communication device may be used to deliver items and services purchased or ordered by the device's user. For example, in various embodiments, the user may use the device to purchase food and drinks. Even if the user moves to another subzone after placing an order, the location of the device may be used to deliver food and drinks to the user.

[0311] The determination of the location of the game communication device may be used to provide the user with directions to other locations in the casino complex. For example, a user on the casino floor who wants to go to a specific restaurant within the casino complex may be given directions based on the user's location. These directions may be updated as the user progresses towards the desired location. If the user deviates from the course, the location determination updated during the user's movement may be used to alert the user that the user has deviated from the course and to determine a new course to the desired location.

[0312] It should be understood that the foregoing description includes only those with certain implementation technologies that may be used in various embodiments. According to various embodiments, other technologies are available and included. Various embodiments may implement any suitable technology using existing or future-developed technologies.

[0313] User Profile According to various embodiments, a wireless game system is capable of introducing user profile elements. The profiles of one or more users are created, maintained, and modified, for example, on one or more servers of the game system. Generally, a user profile includes information about an individual user. The information may be stored in one or more databases. The information is accessible to the game server and / or one or more mobile devices. According to one embodiment, the devices that access the information include a game device or a game management device. The game management device may include a wireless device used by casino staff to provide game services or game management services.

[0314] Various embodiments include software and / or hardware that enable the preparation, modification, and maintenance of one or more user profiles. Thus, each of the one or more user profiles may consist of a data set held within a data storage device. The data set for an individual user may reflect many parameters or information about the particular user corresponding to the profile. Without limitation, such information may include, for example, preferences for games and / or game configurations, preferences for screen configurations, preferences for bets, preferences for game activities such as game positions, preferences for meals and other services, etc. The information may include names, addresses, hotel names and room numbers, phone numbers, social insurance numbers, user codes, and electronic files such as voices, photos, retinal scans, or other biometric information. User profile information may include information related to the user but not determined by the user or the user's activities. Such information may include any information related to or constituting part of the profile. For example, a corporation such as a casino may include, as part of the profile, rules governing the distribution of benefits or offers to the user. User profile information may include any code, account number, credit information, consent, interface, application, or any information related to the user. Thus, user profile information may include any information specific to a given user. For example, the profile information may include the location where a particular user played, technical level, success level, type of game played, and bet style, and trend information regarding the user's activities.

[0315] In various embodiments, the user profile information may include user-related administrator or other service information. The administrator service may include a restaurant service, an entertainment service, a hotel service, a money management service, or other suitable services provided to users of gaming devices. For example, the restaurant service may include, without limitation, services that enable a user to order drinks, food, make reservations, or engage in other restaurant-related activities. As another example, the entertainment service may include, without limitation, services that enable a user to purchase show tickets, make reservations or arrange services, make actual purchases, arrange transportation, or engage in other entertainment-related activities. The hotel service may include, for example, services that enable a user to check in, check out, make spa reservations, check messages, leave messages, review hotel bills, or perform other guest-related activities. The money management service may include, for example, services that enable a user to transfer funds, pay bills, or engage in other money management-related activities.

[0316] The game system may be configured to set a new profile for any user who uses the game device for the first time. Alternatively, a new profile may be set for a user who has not played for a predetermined period from before. The game system may set a profile, monitor user activities, adjust the profile, and adjust the information (such as graphics) displayed to the user. The game system may be configured to use the profile information to change the presentation of game information to the user. For example, when a previous user returns to the game system, the system may investigate the profile for the user and confirm that the user lost money in craps and gained money in blackjack in the previous game session. Based on this information, the system may adjust the default game screen and present a blackjack table to the user. As another example, the profile information may indicate that much of the user's previous blackjack time was spent at a table with a minimum of $25. The system may accordingly further adjust the game environment and set the blackjack table to a $25 table. In this sense, the game system enables a personalized wireless game based on one or more criteria held in the user profile.

[0317] The user profile may be set, maintained, and updated periodically to the extent necessary to enable the game provider to provide an enhanced, current, and / or customized game experience. The update may be based on an appropriate opportunity such as the occurrence of an event, the occurrence of user activity, or the passage of a predetermined period. Any or all of the profile information may be updated.

[0318] Warning In some embodiments, the game system may be configured to initiate one or more warnings to one or more users based on any number of criteria. For example, it may be based on the position of the user. The system may also be configured to track other location-independent parameters. The game warnings may be based on this and / or other information stored in the user profile. The warnings are presented preferentially, and the content and display of the warnings may be customized by the user or other entities. As a related concept, the system may be configured to provide instructions and / or maps. Another related concept may include that the system enables the user to remotely view specific activities or areas. The warnings may be generated in response to the presence of data within the user profile. Further, the concept and presentation of the warnings may be determined based on information within the user profile. Thus, when the warnings occur and what the warnings indicate may be customized or adapted according to the user's preferences (or other information stored regarding the user, such as the user profile).

[0319] In some embodiments, the warnings may be presented or displayed to the user in a format that is determined, at least in part, by any of the parameters described or contemplated herein. For example, if the user is outdoors, it may be automatically set to be brighter to make the warning more visible to the user. The warnings may be in any one or combination of text, visual, audio, or other information exchange formats. The warnings presented to the user on the game communication device may be configured in any desired manner, for example. The information is preferably displayed in a manner that most effectively utilizes the screen space for communicating the warning message. Thus, different warnings of different types or with different priorities can be displayed differently on the game device. For example, secondary warnings may scroll to the bottom of the screen, while more important warnings may be displayed as pop-ups. The player can register the warnings and determine a specific preferred warning configuration.

[0320] According to some embodiments, the instruction information may be provided to one or more users. The instruction information may be related to a warning. The instruction information may be based on any of the parameters described herein (e.g., profile, warning, location, play or other activity changes, etc.). The instructions may be given for activities, locations, seats, tables, entertainment sports, restaurants, cage changes, information booths, casinos, hotels, sports venues, theaters, and others. For example, instructions may be given to a specific table or game area, a casino other than the place where the user is currently located or a casino where other users are, a restaurant specified in the user profile, a sports reservation area in the casino, a hotel room, etc.

[0321] The instructions can be presented audibly, textually, and / or graphically (e.g., as a map with zoom capabilities). Examples of how the instructions are provided include that the user likes to play high-limit blackjack on Saturday nights, but the user profile indicates that the user has no preference for a specific casino. When the user enters any casino during system operation, the system provides the player with a warning to lure the player to a high-limit blackjack table and instruction information in a visual roulette format. Other examples include a user who exits a sports reservation in the casino and indicates a desire to clap. The device gives a walking instruction to the clap table. Other examples include a user who has a list of favorite dinner restaurants. At a predetermined time (e.g., 8:00 p.m.), the system provides the list to the user and allows the user to make a selection and a reservation. The system provides the user with an audible instruction from the user's current location to the selected restaurant. The system may be configured to provide auxiliary information at least partially based on the warning, profile, or instruction information provided. For example, based on where the user is going and the route the user takes, the system informs the user that the user needs a taxi, needs to take the train, or needs a coat and tie, etc.

[0322] According to various embodiments, the system enables a user to remotely view a specific activity or area. For example, cameras (or other viewing devices) may be installed throughout a casino building (or other related area). On a kiosk, or a wireless gaming device, the user can view the activity in the selected area, excluding one or more selected areas. For example, from the pool, the user can see if the craps table has changed limits or is crowded with people. From the craps table, the user can see if the restaurant or bar is starting to get crowded.

[0323] According to various embodiments, the operation of the warning module and the warning method are integrated with various techniques for managing user profiles. In an example of this aspect, when playing a casino game, the system may be configured to recognize that the user has a preferred dealer or stickman. When these dealers or stickmen are on duty and the user is located in a specific area or within a specific distance, a warning may be sent to invite the user to participate in the game activity at a specific table where the dealer or stickman is on duty.

[0324] When the user profile information indicates that one or more criteria are satisfied in this way, the system may send a warning to the corresponding user or other users. For example, the system may know that the user is a fan of a particular sports team. The system monitors the upcoming event that includes those teams at a predetermined time and checks whether the user has placed a bet on that event. If not, the system may invite the user to visit the sports reservation to place a bet. In other examples, the system knows that the user prefers tables with a minimum amount of $10 and warns the user to open a seat at such a table. In other examples, it is possible to issue a warning triggered by information that is not directly related to or associated with a particular user (e.g., user-non-specific information). For example, the warning may be issued triggered by a particular time or a particular event (e.g., the odds given for a particular sport change by a particular pre-determined amount).

[0325] Service application According to various embodiments, the game service may be provided as an attachment to an existing communication or data service. In this way, the game service application may be made available to customers of the existing communication or data service. For example, customers of a particular wireless phone or data service may be provided with any one or a combination of the various game service applications described herein as an additional feature bundled with the phone or data service. This document refers to the communication service bundled with the provided game service application as including the existing communication service, but the game service application may be provided and received as part of a package that includes a newly launched communication service plan. In still other embodiments, the game service may be first set up and the communication service may be added later.

[0326] A game service application bundled with or provided along with a communication service may be customized to meet the needs of the customer, the service provider, or both. For example, the service provider may choose to create a game service application that is available only to a subset of the service provider's customers. In this way, customers associated with the service provider are provided with the game service, although not all of them. As another example of a customized game service application, the communication service may offer a customer a number of game service plans that provide different levels of service. For example, certain services such as advertising services and / or promotion services may be free to the customer of the communication service. Such levels of service may be by customer choice, service provider choice, or both.

[0327] Customers may be billed separately for additional game services or may be billed along with the invoice that the customer already receives for the existing communication service. For example, in certain embodiments, the game service may be billed as an additional charge in the same way that a charge is added to the base charge associated with the communication service for caller ID service, call waiting service, call messaging service.

[0328] Peer-to-Peer Wireless Game According to various embodiments, the gaming service enables peer-to-peer wireless gaming. In particular, the system allows multiple players from distributed locations to participate in the same gaming activity simultaneously. This is particularly desirable for certain games, such as, but not limited to, horse racing, poker, and blackjack. The system may allow a single player to participate in multiple positions for a particular game. For example, a user may be allowed to play multiple hands of blackjack. Certain aspects include assisting users in locating particular activities. For example, a first player may wish to play poker at a six-person table. The gaming system may be used to identify poker tables with available positions for the first player. Additionally or alternatively, if the first player wishes to play at the same table as a second player, the system may be configured to assist the first player in locating a game in which the second player is already participating.

[0329] Location determination technology may be incorporated to enable peer-to-peer gaming or related services. For example, a "buddy network" may be established to track members of a selected group. For example, a group of friends may be in a gambling jurisdiction, but may be in various discrete locations within the jurisdiction. The gaming system allows this group of friends to create a private buddy network of peers. The system allows one or more members of the group to track one or more other members of the group. In various embodiments, the system may also enable messaging from or to one or more group members. For example, the system may allow members to invite other members to participate in a particular wireless gaming activity. Additionally or alternatively, the system may allow members of the group to bet on the gaming activities of other members of the group participating in virtual or real games.

[0330] Location determination technology may be incorporated to set up a "warning system". The warning system may be used to induce a specific type of player to participate in game activities. Criteria may be used to identify users of the gaming device who meet the criteria. For example, a game participant may want to start a game activity with other users of the gaming device who are recognized as "high rollers" or "high-prize gamers". As another example, a user of a celebrity may want to start a game activity with other celebrities, or an old-timer citizen may want to start a game activity with other old-timer citizens. In any case, the user identifies the criteria used to identify other game participants who meet the start criteria of the peer-to-peer game event.

[0331] The foregoing description should be understood to include only those having implementations of the technologies used by various embodiments. Other technologies may be used and considered by various embodiments. Various embodiments may be implemented using any suitable technology, including any existing or yet-to-be-developed technology.

[0332] Games and Wireless Systems Various embodiments include a game system that includes a handheld personal game device. The game system is adapted to present one or more games to a user having one of the handheld game devices.

[0333] In various embodiments, the game system includes a portable game device or interface. The portable game device has a display for displaying game information to the player and an input device for receiving at least one input from the user, and can transmit and receive information with a remote device / location. The game system also includes a game server that generates game data, transmits the game data to the portable game device, and receives information such as player input from the portable game device. The game system further includes a payment transaction server for enabling payments and granting the player the right to play games provided by the game server via the portable game device.

[0334] In various embodiments, the game system includes one or more fixed game machines or other devices capable of printing value-added tickets. The portable game device includes a ticket reader for reading ticket information used by a payment transaction server when verifying the value granted to a player to permit play of a game.

[0335] In one or more embodiments, the portable game device communicates with other devices (such as a game server) via a wireless communication channel. Appropriate relays and transceivers are provided to enable wireless communication.

[0336] In one or more embodiments, the portable game device includes a plurality of interfaces for changing the configuration of the game device or for interacting with one or more transaction servers. In some embodiments, a login interface is provided to receive login information regarding the user of the device. In various embodiments, the number of interfaces displayed or accessible, other functions, or features are configured according to the user of the device. When a game representative authenticates themselves, an interface is provided that permits access to various control functions. When a player authenticates themselves, such control functions are not accessible, but instead only consumer-related functions such as game play are accessible.

[0337] In one or more embodiments, the game system includes one or more transaction servers, such as a food transaction server. Using the interface of the portable game device, a player or other user may request services from the food transaction server. For example, a player may request food, drinks, restaurant reservations, or other services.

[0338] One or more embodiments include a method for playing a game via a portable game device connected to a game network. In some embodiments, a player obtains a portable game device so as to check out the device from a hostess station at a restaurant or a hotel / casino reception. The player gives a value such as a credit card or a cash deposit to the game operator. This value is associated with the server and conforms to a ticket number, a player tracking number, or other identifier.

[0339] The game device is configured to accommodate player play using a login interface. The login is performed by the player or the game operator. The player then sets the right to obtain services such as showing that there is value and playing the game. In some embodiments, the player scans his ticket using the ticket reader of the device. The scanned information is sent to the payment transaction server to verify the player's right to play the game or obtain other services. When the right is confirmed, the player's participation in the game play or service request is permitted.

[0340] If the player wishes to play the game, the player indicates the wish by selecting a specific game using the game play interface. Upon receiving such an instruction, the game server generates game data and sends it to the personal game device. The transmitted data may include audio and video data used by the personal game device when presenting the game. The player can participate in the game by inputting to the game server via the personal game device. The game server determines whether the result of the game is a win or a loss. If the result is a win, a reward may be given. This reward may be a cash value associated with the player's account on the payment transaction server. If the result is a loss, the bet or stake placed by the player is lost and the amount may be withdrawn from the player's account on the transaction server.

[0341] FIG. 29 shows a block diagram of a game system according to various embodiments.

[0342] As illustrated, game system B20 includes a plurality of gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, B22j. In some embodiments, these gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, B22j are of a fixed type. Generally, the gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, B22j are adapted to present one or more games to a player. In various embodiments, these games are of the type that require a wager or bet to be placed, or of the type where a player who receives a winning result is provided with a prize such as a payout. These devices include, for example, video poker and slot machines. Further, game system B20 includes one or more hand-held, portable gaming devices (PGDs) B24. PGD B24 is adapted to provide one or more games to a player and may be used as an access point to various other services, as shown below. Here, a device referred to as a "personal gaming device" may be referred to by other terms such as a portable game interface, a personal game unit, etc., but regardless of the name of the device, has one or more of the features herein.

[0343] Further, in various embodiments, PGD B24 communicates with at least one game server B28. As will be described below, in various embodiments, one or more games presented to a player via PGD B24 are provided by game server B28.

[0344] The gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, B22j and individual PGD B24 communicate with a system herein referred to as "EZ-Pay". This system includes a server B26 for transmitting and receiving information. Generally, the EZ Pay system is utilized to receive payments from players who play games and obtain other goods and services, and to pay out winnings or prizes to players.

[0345] In an exemplary embodiment, the game system B20 includes other servers B30, B32 for transmitting and / or receiving information. In some embodiments, one server B30 includes a prize transaction server. Another server B32 includes a food transaction server. In some embodiments, information may be transmitted between the PGD B24 and the servers B30, B32.

[0346] The EZ Pay system according to various embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 30. If a player wins the game or wishes to cash out, the EZ Pay system may constitute a prize ticket system that enables the issuance of prize ticket coupons instead of traditional coin prizes or payouts. These tickets may also be used by the gaming machine and other devices that provide value such as payment for items including bets or wagers for playing the game.

[0347] FIG. 30 shows in block diagram some embodiments of such a system. As shown, a first group consisting of gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d and B22e is connected to a first clerk verification terminal (CVT) B34, and a second group consisting of gaming machines B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i and B22j is connected to a second CVT B36. All of the gaming machines print ticket coupons that can be exchanged for cash or accepted as credit or marks on other gaming machines. If the CVTs B34, B36 are not interconnected, the ticket coupons printed by one gaming machine may only be used as credit marks on other gaming machines within the group of gaming machines connected to the same CVT. For example, the prize tickets printed by gaming machine B22a can be used as credit marks on gaming machines B22b, B22c, B22d and B22e connected to the common CVT B34, but may not be usable on gaming machines B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, and B22j since these gaming machines are connected to CVT B36.

[0348] CVTs B34 and B36 store ticket coupon information corresponding to outstanding ticket coupons awaiting redemption. This information is used when tickets are validated and cashed. CVTs B34 and B36 store information about ticket coupons printed by gaming machines connected to the CVT. For example, CVT B34 stores ticket coupon information for tickets printed by gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, and B22e. If a player desires to cash out a ticket coupon and CVTs B34 and B36 are not interconnected, the player may cash out a coupon printed from a specific gaming machine at the CVT for that gaming machine group. To cash out a ticket coupon, the ticket coupon is verified by comparing information obtained from the ticket with information stored in the CVT. After a ticket coupon is cashed out, the CVT marks the ticket as paid in its database to prevent ticket coupons with similar information from being cashed out multiple times.

[0349] Multiple groups of gaming machines connected to the CVTs B34, B36 may be interconnected by a cross-validation network B38. The cross-validation network typically includes one or more concentrators B40 that accept input from two or more CVTs and allow communication to and from two or more CVTs using a single communication line. The concentrators B40 are connected to a front-end controller B42 that may call the CVTs B34, B36 for ticket coupon information. The front-end controller B42 is connected to an EZ Pay server B26 that may provide various information services to the prize ticket system, including accounting B44 and administration B46.

[0350] The cross-validation network enables any ticket coupons issued by game machines connected to the cross-validation network to be accepted by other game machines within the cross-validation network. Further, the cross-validation network enables the cashiers at cashier stations B48, B50, and B52 to verify any ticket coupons issued by game machines within the cross-validation network. To cash in a ticket coupon, a player may present the ticket coupon at one of cashier stations B48, B50, or B52. The information obtained from the ticket coupon is used to verify the ticket by comparing the information on the ticket with the information stored in CVTs B34 and B36 connected to the cross-validation network. Once the ticket is verified, this information may be sent to another computer B54 to provide a review service.

[0351] As described above, game system B20 may also include one or more PGDs B24. In various embodiments, PGD B24 is a portable device capable of transmitting and receiving via a wireless communication link / network.

[0352] Referring again to FIG. 29, game system B20 may include printers B56, wireless communication relays B58 and B60, and wireless transceivers B62, B64, B66, and B68 connected to remote transaction servers B26, B28, B30, and B32. In various embodiments, a player may obtain a PGD B24, and after obtaining appropriate permissions, play one or more games and / or obtain other services including food services or accommodation services.

[0353] FIG. 31 shows a block diagram of a game and service system implemented by the PGD B24 and the game system B20 illustrated in FIG. 29. In various embodiments, the game and service system B100 consists of at least the PGD B24 and many input / output devices. The PGD B24 generally includes a display screen B102 that may display many game service interfaces B106. The game service interfaces B106 are generated on the display screen B102 by a certain type of microprocessor (not shown) within the PGD B24. As an example of a handheld PGD B24 that adapts the game service interfaces B106 shown in FIG. 31, there is one manufactured by Symbol Technologies, Incorporated of Holtsville, New York. The interface or menu data may be stored in local memory, or the data may be transmitted from a remote location (such as a data server) to the PGD B24. This results in a reduction of the memory requirements of the device.

[0354] The game service interfaces B106 may be used to provide game operation services including presenting various game service transactions and game play for one or more users to play. The game service interfaces B106, including the login interface B105, the input / output interface B108, the transaction mediation interface B110, the ticket confirmation interface B115, the prize offering interface B120, the food offering interface B125, the accommodation facility offering interface B130, the game operation interface B135, and the game play interface B137, may be accessed via a main menu with many sub-menus that enable access to different display screens related to specific interfaces for game service representatives or players.

[0355] In one or more embodiments, some or all of the ones with interfaces may be available to users of the PGD B24. For example, in one or more embodiments, the PGD B24 may be available to players who play games and participate in other activities, and may have a dual purpose of being used by game operators to provide services to players and execute management functions. In various embodiments, some PGDs B24 may be specially configured to be used only by players, and other PGDs B24 may be specially configured to be used only in relation to games or by other personnel. In such cases, the interface B106 may be specially programmed.

[0356] In one or more embodiments, depending on the situation of the user of the PGD B24, only a specific interface B106 may be displayed. In some embodiments, the specific interface B106 that is displayed and accessible is determined by the situation of the user shown via the login function. In various embodiments, when the PGD B24 is operable (such as when the power button is turned on), the default status of the PGD B24 is the display of the login interface B105. When the user of the PGD B24 logs in, the status of the PGD is changed.

[0357] In one or more embodiments, the login interface B105 may be enabled to receive user identification of the type of game service representative and verify the user identification with a password. When the display screen B102 is a touch screen, the user may use the input pen B103 and / or one or more input buttons B104 to input user / operator identification information on the display screen including the login interface B105. Using the menu on the display screen of the login interface, the user may select other display screens related to the login and registration processes. For example, other display screens obtained via the menu on the display screen in the login interface may be enabled to scan the fingerprint of the game service representative or scan the fingerprint of the game player.

[0358] When the user identifies himself / herself as a game operator or representative, the PGD B24 may be adjusted to display one or more interfaces as listed above and as described in detail below. In one or more embodiments, the default status or login may be a "player" mode login.

[0359] In various embodiments, the login interface B105 may allow a player to identify themselves in order to configure the PGD B24 to allow access to multiple player services, such as game play, etc. In various embodiments, the login interface B105 includes a request that the user identify themselves as a “player” or “authorized personnel.” If “authorized personnel” is selected, the user identification (including password) referenced above is requested. If “player” is selected, in various embodiments, the player is requested to provide an EZ pay ticket. As described in more detail below, in various embodiments, a player wishing to play one or more games or obtain other goods or services utilizes an EZ pay ticket to provide or pay for credits. Tickets may be obtained from a cashier or by play of other gaming devices (such as devices B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22e, B22f, B22g, B22h, B222i, and B22j in FIG. 29). Tickets will be validated via the EZ payment system mentioned above.

[0360] In various embodiments, the PGD B24 includes a ticket reader B145 and a card reader B140. In some embodiments, the ticket reader B145 can be of various types. In some embodiments, the reader includes a barcode reading optical scanner. In this case, the user of the PGD B24 simply passes the barcode ticket in front of the barcode reader. In some embodiments, the card reader B140 includes a magnetic stripe card type reader for reading information associated with the magnetic stripe of a card, such as a player tracking card.

[0361] Once appropriate authorization is granted, access is given to the user of the PGD B24, which consists of one or more of the following interfaces B106:

[0362] In one or more embodiments, an authenticated user is given access to the input / output interface B108. In various embodiments, such access is given only to game service operators and not to players. In one or more embodiments, the input / output interface B108 permits a user to select, from a list of devices stored in the memory of the PGD B24, a device through which the PGD may input game service information or output game service transaction information. For example, the PDG B24 may communicate with a ticket reader B145. As another example, the PGD B24 may input information from a card reader B140. Such input is useful, for example, when a game service operator wishes to verify the authenticity of a player tracking card or the like.

[0363] The PGD B24 may output game and service transaction information to many devices. For example, to print a receipt, the PGD B24 may output information to a printer B150. In this game service transaction, the PGD B24 may send a print request to the printer B150 and may receive a print response from the printer B150. The printer B150 may be a large device in a fixed location or a portable device carried by a game service representative. As another example, the output device may be a card reader B140 capable of storing information on a magnetic card or a smart card. Other devices that may receive input or output from the PGD B24 are a portable information terminal, a microphone, a keyboard, a storage device, a game machine, and a remote transaction server.

[0364] PGD B24 may communicate with various input and output mechanisms using both wired and wireless communication interfaces. For example, PGD B24 may be connected to printer B150 by a certain type of wired connection. However, PGD B24 may communicate with remote transaction server B160 via a wireless communication interface including a spread spectrum mobile communication network communication interface. An example of a spread spectrum mobile communication network communication interface is Spectrum 24, which operates between 2.4 and 2.5 gigahertz and is provided by Symbol Technologies of Holtsville, New York. Information communicated using wireless communication may be encrypted to provide security for certain game service transactions such as verifying tickets for cashing. Some devices may be adapted to a composite communication interface. Such a spread spectrum network is just one possible communication system.

[0365] Another type of interface that may be stored in PGD B24 is prize ticket verification interface B115. In some embodiments, this interface is available only to authorized game service operators and not to players. Some embodiments of prize ticket interface B115 are adapted to the EZ Pay ticket coupon system and may verify EZ Pay tickets as previously described. However, if other ticket coupon systems are used, prize ticket verification interface B115 may be designed to interface with other ticket coupon systems. Using prize ticket verification interface B115, a game service representative may read, verify information from a ticket presented to the game service representative by a user using a ticket reader, and pay the prize indicated on the ticket.

[0366] In various embodiments, the prize ticket may include game service transaction information that is to be verified against information stored in the remote transaction server B160. The ticket requests the number of game service transactions for verification. For example, after obtaining game service transaction information from the prize ticket, the PGD B24 may send a ticket verification request to the remote transaction server B160 using the spread spectrum communication interface and receive a ticket verification response from the remote server B160. In particular, the verification response and verification request may be for an EZ payment ticket. After the prize ticket is verified, the PGD B24 may send a confirmation of the transaction to the remote server B160. Details of the game service transaction confirmation process are described with reference to FIG. 33. In various embodiments, the prize ticket interface may verify prize information from a smart card or other portable information device, or may directly verify prize information from a gaming machine.

[0367] When the game and service transaction is completed, the game and service transaction information may be stored in the storage device B155. The storage device B155 may be a remote storage device or a portable storage device. The storage device B155 may be used as a backup for auditing purposes in case the memory of the PGD B24 fails, or may be removable from the PGD B24.

[0368] One type of game service interface that may be recorded in the PGD B24 is the prize service interface B120. As a prize for the gaming machine (i.e., the gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22e, B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, B22j in FIG. 29), or while playing a game via the PGD B24, the player may receive tickets (such as those issued by other gaming machines) that can be converted into goods including bicycles, computers, or travel bags, or may receive such prizes directly (such as while playing the PGD B24). Using the prize service interface B120, a game service representative or the player may check the prize service tickets and check the availability of specific prizes. For example, if the prize service ticket indicates that the player has won a bicycle, the game service representative may check at a nearby prize distribution center whether the prize is available. Alternatively, the player may be permitted to do the same. In some embodiments, if there is one or more specific prizes for a particular level, the player may be awarded one prize of that particular level. In such cases, the player may use the interface B120 to determine which prizes are currently available at the awarded prize level. The PGD B24 may check the prize tickets and communicate with a remote prize server to check the availability of specific prizes. Further, the game service representative may ship the prize to the player's home, or may send a request to send the prize to the prize delivery location. The game service transactions necessary to check the prize tickets including prize confirmation requests and responses, confirm the availability of the prize, and order or ship the prize are implemented using various display screens located within the prize interface. Different prize screens of the prize service interface may be accessed using menus located on the individual screens of the prize service interface. In some embodiments, the prize service interface B120 may check information from a smart card or other portable information device, or may directly check the prize information from the gaming machine.

[0369] The type of game service interface that may be stored in PGD B24 is the food service interface B125. As a prize for the gaming machine or as compensation for a specific amount of games, the player may receive free food or drinks. Using the food service interface, the player may materialize a prize of food or drink, or the game service representative may confirm such a prize (for example, the prize may be given to the player of the gaming device B22a in the form of a ticket) and check the availability of the prize. For example, if the player receives a prize ticket valid for a free meal, the food service interface may check the availability of a dinner reservation and may be used to make a dinner reservation. As another example, PGD B24 may be used to take an order for food or drink by the player. Such an order may be processed via a remote food server B32 (see FIG. 29). The transactions necessary to confirm a food ticket or prize, check the availability of the food service, request the food service, and receive a response to the food service request are carried out using various display screens located within the food service interface B125. These display screens may be accessed using a menu located on an individual screen of the food service interface. In some embodiments, the food service interface may be configured to check food service information from a smart card or other form of information device.

[0370] Another type of game service that may be stored in PGD B24 is the accommodation facility service interface B130. As a reward for game play or in compensation for a certain amount of game play, the player may receive a reward in the form of an accommodation facility service such as a room upgrade, free accommodation, or other accommodation facility services. Using the accommodation facility service interface B130, the player may check the availability of a particular accommodation facility reward. For example, if the player receives a room upgrade reward, the accommodation facility service interface may check the availability of the room and may be used to reserve the room. Regardless of whether the player has obtained an accommodation facility reward, the player may use the accommodation facility service interface to reserve a room (such as an additional accommodation reservation) or to upgrade a room. In some embodiments, tickets may be issued to the players of the game (e.g., from the independent game devices B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22e, B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, B22j shown in FIG. 29), and the game representative may check the player's reward ticket, check the availability of the reward, and use the accommodation facility service interface to implement the reward. As another example, PGD B24 may be used to call a taxi or other form of transportation for a player who is at the game machine and attempting to leave the game play area. The game play area may be a casino, hotel, restaurant, bar, or store.

[0371] PGD B24 may communicate with a remote accommodation facility server to check for awards for accommodation facility services and check the availability of awards for a specific accommodation facility. The handling necessary to check accommodation facility tickets, check the availability of accommodation services, request accommodation facility services, and receive responses to accommodation facility service requests may be performed using various display screens located within the accommodation service interface. These display screens may be accessed using menus located on individual screens of the accommodation facility service interface. In some embodiments, the accommodation facility service interface may be configured to check accommodation facility service information from a smart card or other portable information device.

[0372] One type of game service interface that may be stored on PGD B24 is game operation interface B135. Using game service interface B135 on PGD B24, a game service representative may perform many game service transactions related to game operations. For example, if a game player spills a drink within the game play area, the game service representative may send a request to dispatch personnel to clean up the incident to maintenance and receive a response to that request from maintenance. The maintenance request and maintenance response may be sent and received via a display screen selected via a menu on the screen of the game operation service interface. As another example, if a game service representative notices a breakdown of a gaming machine such as a power outage, the game service representative may use PGD B24 to send a maintenance request for the gaming machine. In one or more embodiments, a player may be permitted various options by game service interface B135. For example, a player may be permitted to request a service representative or staff member using interface B135.

[0373] One type of game service interface that may be stored on PGD B24 is the transaction mediation interface B110. In various embodiments, PGD B24 incorporates a memory for storing game service transaction information. The memory may record the type and the time when a particular game service is executed. Sometimes, the records of game service transactions stored in PGD B24 may be compared with the records stored at other locations. For example, for the confirmation of prize tickets, each time a prize ticket is confirmed and paid out, the confirmation is sent to the remote server B160. In this way, the information regarding the prize tickets confirmed using PGD B24 should match the information regarding the transactions performed by the PGD stored in the remote server B160. The transaction mediation process includes the use of the transaction mediation interface B110 to compare this information. In various embodiments, only game service representatives (excluding players) are permitted access to the transaction mediation interface B110.

[0374] One type of game service that may be stored on PGD B24 is the voice interface B138. Using the spread spectrum mobile communication or other communication network built into the PGD, a player and / or game service representative may use the PGD B24 as a voice communication device. This voice interface B138 may be used to assist with the previously described interfaces. For example, if a game player spills a drink, the game service representative may use the voice interface B138 on the PGD B24 to send a maintenance request and receive a maintenance response. As another example, when a game player requests confirmation of a food service such as a free meal, such a request may be made by the player, or a game service representative at a restaurant or other location using the voice interface B138 on the PGD B24. In some embodiments, a player may be permitted to communicate with players of other PGD B24s, such as by entering a code number assigned to the PGD B24 with which communication is desired. In this way, for example, a couple using two different PGDs B24s may be permitted to communicate with each other. The voice interface B138 may permit a player to communicate with the hotel / casino front desk, the operator of the switchboard at the game location, etc.

[0375] One type of game service interface that may be stored on PGD B24 is the game play interface B137. In various embodiments, a player is permitted access to the game play interface B137 to select one or more games for play. The game play interface B137 may include a menu listing one or more games that a player may play via the PGD B24. In various embodiments, the game play is implemented by the game server B28 (see FIG. 29).

[0376] In one or more embodiments, the game control code does not exist in the PDG B24 and is located on a secure remote server. Referring to FIG. 29, game play data is transmitted from the game server B28 to the PGD B24 and from the PGD B24 to the game server B28. The PDG B24 is adapted to receive data by receiving video data and processing this data as information on the display B102. Similarly, the PGD B24 is adapted to receive an input and transmit that input or command to the game server B28. This adaptation results in the advantage that almost all aspects of the game player can be monitored since game play data is required to be sent to or from a remote location. This prevents, for example, storing game software that has been tampered with, copied, etc. in the PGD B24.

[0377] In one or more embodiments, each PGD B24 has a unique identifier that is used to identify from which PGD B24 data is transmitted and to which PGD B24 data is transmitted. In some embodiments, the game server B28 may be used to present the same or different games to multiple players using different PGDs B24 by directing game data related to a particular game being played on a particular PGD B24 to that PGD B24 using a specific identifier.

[0378] As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, PGD B24 may have various configurations. As described above, PGD B24 may be used in game system B20 where the game code is not directly stored in the PGD. In such embodiments, PGD B24 may have a significantly more limited amount of data memory. In some embodiments, PGD B24 includes a processor for executing control code necessary to operate display B102 and receive inputs from pen B103 or input button B104, etc. Further, PGD B24 preferably includes a buffer memory for receiving data transmitted from game server B28. This data may include data for displaying game information such as video and audio content.

[0379] The various usage forms of the aforementioned PDG B24 are described. In one or more embodiments, PGD B24 may be directly used by a player. In various embodiments, a player may use PGD B24 to play one or more games and obtain products and services such as food.

[0380] A method of using PGD B24 according to some embodiments is illustrated in FIGS. 32(a) and 32(b). Generally, a player must first obtain PGD B24. For example, a player may borrow PGD B24 from a game operator. The player then sets the usage permission of PGD B24. In some embodiments, the player must indicate the player's identity through a login interface and obtain a valid ticket to operate PGD B24. When operating, the player is permitted to participate in various transactions such as using interface B106 to play games, redeem prizes, order food and drinks, make reservations, seek assistance from the game operator, and seek various other goods and services as will be described in more detail below.

[0381] An example of the usage method of PGD B24 by a player will be described with reference to FIG. 32(a). In the first step B400, the player first obtains the PGD B24. In some embodiments, the game operator may have a location where the player can obtain the PGD B24 from a game staff member or other desired location, such as the front desk of a hotel / casino or the hostess stand of a restaurant. In some embodiments, the game operator may actually permit the player to possess the PGD B24 by lending, selling, or giving the PGD B24 to the player.

[0382] In step B402, the PGD B24 is operated. In some embodiments, this step includes turning on the PGD B24 (such as using a power switch) and logging in. In some embodiments, when the PGD B24 is turned on, the login interface B105 is automatically displayed. The login interface B105 may include "Player" and "Authorized Personnel" buttons that may be operated using the pen B103.

[0383] In some embodiments, the game operator may log in the player. For example, when the player obtains the PGD B24 from the hostess of a restaurant, the hostess may log in the player. In some embodiments, the game operator may have other devices used by game staff members as well as the PGDs B24 used by the player. In such a case, the PGDs B24 configured for the player may be automatically configured in the player mode after being turned on.

[0384] In step B404, the player sets the eligibility to use PGD B24. In some embodiments, this step may include the player providing a valid ticket that can be verified using the EZ payment section of game system B20. In some embodiments, the player may obtain the ticket by playing on one of the gaming machines such as gaming machines B22a, B22b, B22c, B22d, B22e, B22f, B22g, B22h, B22i, B22j. In some embodiments, the player may have the ticket issued by a game service representative. For example, the player may pay credit (by credit card or cash) at the cashier cage and have a ticket issued. The player may pay cash or the like to a hostess at a restaurant and have a ticket issued.

[0385] When the player has a ticket, the ticket may be scanned using the ticket reader B145 of PGD B24. For example, the player may pass the ticket in front of the ticket reader B145. When the information is read by PGD B24, the data may be sent to the EZ payment server B26 for verification. By this verification, it is preferred that a particular ticket be authenticated, including the fact that it is unpaid and has a corresponding value.

[0386] In one or more embodiments, the eligibility may be set in other ways. For example, in some embodiments, the eligibility may be set using a player tracking or identification card that may be read using the card reader B140 of PGD B24.

[0387] By setting the eligibility for PGD B24, it may be ensured that the player has the funds necessary to pay for the services and products available through the use of PGD B24. However, in one or more embodiments, this step may be omitted. For example, in some embodiments, the player may use PGD B24 and pay for items or services in other ways. In some embodiments, the player may, for example, order food and pay the waiter for the food in room charge or cash when the food is delivered. In some embodiments, the player may use a credit card to play games or pay for things such as food. In this case, the credit card may be read by card reader B140 when the service or product is delivered or when ordered by the player.

[0388] In step B406, the player is permitted to make one or more selections from interface B106. As described above, the player may not be permitted to access all of interface B106. In any case, the player may select a service from a group of interfaces B106, such as by using pen B103. An example of participating in a specific activity using PGD B24 will be described below with reference to FIG. 32(b).

[0389] If the player no longer wishes to participate in the activity using PGD B24, the PGD B24 usage session ends at step B408, and in one or more embodiments, PGD B24 is returned to the game operator. In various embodiments, if the player no longer wishes to use PGD B24, the player returns PGD B24 to the game operator. At that point, the game operator may confirm that the transaction using PGD B24 is closed or completed and pay the player if there is a win. In some embodiments, a new ticket representing the player's credit for PGD B24 (including all payments made for the first use of PGD B24, with all wins added and expenses subtracted) is issued to the player.

[0390] An example of a method for using PGD B24 when a game player selects an option for game play using game play interface B137 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 32(b). In step B410 (including a particular embodiment of step B406 in FIG. 32(a)), the player is selecting a "game play" event or service using game play interface B137.

[0391] In some embodiments, when the player selects game play interface B137, a menu of one or more games for which the player is permitted to play may be displayed to the player. In some embodiments, when the player selects game play interface B137, a signal is transmitted from PGD B24 to remote game server B28, instructing game server B28 of the player's game play desires. In response, game server B28 may transmit an up-to-date game menu to PGD B24 for display. In this configuration, the available game menu may be updated at all times at one or more central locations (such as server B28) instead of individual PGD B24s.

[0392] When system B20 permits the player to select a game from the game menu, the method includes the step of the player selecting the particular game the player wishes to play. When the game is selected, or if only a single game option is provided, game play begins. In some embodiments, game server B28 transmits data such as video and audio content to PGD B24 for use in presenting the game by PGD B24.

[0393] In some embodiments, in step B412, the player is required to place a bet or wager to participate in the game. In some embodiments, the player may place a bet or wager using the EZ payment system. As described above, it is preferred that the player sets the eligibility for using PGD B24 with an EZ payment ticket, or other ticket indicating that the player has cash or credit in the account that the player may use for payment of goods and services. These services include game play services.

[0394] In some embodiments, when the player sets the eligibility for using PGD B24, the value of the player's credit or cash is displayed to the player so that the player pays visual attention to these amounts. When the player starts playing the game, the player may enter a bet or wager that does not exceed the value of the credit or cash that the player has in the account. When the player places a bet or wager, that information is sent to the EZ payment server B26 and subtracted from the player's account. The new credit value is displayed to the player on the PGD B24.

[0395] In various embodiments, the player may provide a bet or wager in other ways. For example, the player may pass a credit card through a card reader B140 to provide the credit needed for the bet or wager.

[0396] In step B414, the player is permitted to participate in the game. In some embodiments, game play includes the game server B28 executing game code and sending information to the PGD B24 to present a certain aspect of the game to the player. If necessary, the player is permitted to enter, and the input data is sent from the PGD B24 to the game server B28.

[0397] As an example of a game, the game may include video poker. In this embodiment, the game server B28 executes code to randomly generate or select five cards. Data representing video images of the cards is sent to the PGD B24, where images of the five dealt cards are displayed on the display screen B102.

[0398] An instruction of "draw" or "stay" may be displayed to the player. At that time, the player may select one or more cards to keep or exchange. If the player selects to exchange cards, the instruction is sent to the game server B28, and the game server B28 randomly generates or selects replacement cards. The replacement card data is sent to the PGD B24, and images of the replacement cards are displayed.

[0399] If the game server B28 determines that a five - card hand (including replacement cards) includes a predetermined winning hand, the player may be paid the winning amount. Otherwise, the player loses the bet or stake. This step includes step B416 of a method for determining the result of the game.

[0400] If the result is a win, the player may be paid for the win by crediting the player's account by the EZ payment server B26. In that case, the displayed credit value of the player is updated to reflect the player's win.

[0401] The player may select to play another game, play a different game, or select one or more offered services. In some embodiments, a "return to main menu" button or the like may be constantly displayed to the player, allowing the player to return to a display including various interfaces B106.

[0402] In some embodiments, when the player completes the use of PGD B24, the player returns PGD B24 to the game operator. For example, the player may return PGD B24 to the cashier cage or the game service operator. In various embodiments, the game service operator or other relevant person issues a ticket to the player for the credit or value remaining in the player's account. PGD B24 may be deactivated so that it can be used by other players. In some embodiments, PGD B24 may be deactivated by turning off its power. In some embodiments, a "logout" interface or option may be provided to return PGD B24 to its default state that requires the player or user to log in.

[0403] PGD B24 may be used by the game service operator. Some examples of such usage will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 29 and 30.

[0404] When the game service representative contacts the game player who requests game services in the game playing area B70 (see FIG. 29), the game service representative uses the appropriate game service interface on the display screen of PGD B24 to provide the game services requested by the game player, as described with reference to FIG. 31. For example, when the game player requests an EZ ticket check, the game service representative uses the menu available on the display screen B102 to display the EZ payment ticket check interface on the display screen of PGD B24. The game service representative scans the EZ payment ticket using the ticket reader connected to PGD B24 to obtain the unique ticket information. Next, PGD B24 sends an EZ payment ticket check request to the EZ payment server B26 using the wireless communication interface.

[0405] In various embodiments, the ticket verification request is composed of one or more information packets that conform to the wireless communication standard being used. Using the wireless link B72, one or more information packets including the ticket verification request are transmitted to the transceiver B62 connected to the EZ payment server. The transceiver B62 is designed to receive messages from and transmit messages to one or more PGDs B24 in the gaming area B70 in the communication format used by the PGD. Depending on the location of the PGD B24 within the gaming area B70, the communication path of the information packet to or from the PGD B24 may pass through one or more wireless communication relays including B58 and B60. For example, if the PGD B24 is near the gaming machine B22a, the communication path for the message from the PGD B24 to the EZ payment server B26 may be from the PGD B24 to the relay B60, from the relay B60 to the relay B58, from the relay B58 to the transceiver B62, and from the transceiver B62 to the EZ payment server B26. When the location of the PGD B24 within the gaming area B70 changes, the communication path between the PGD B24 and the EZ payment server B26 may also change.

[0406] After receiving the EZ payment ticket verification response from the EZ payment server B26, the EZ payment ticket may be verified using an appropriate display screen on the PGD B24. After cashing out the ticket, the game service representative may use the PGD B24 to send a confirmation of the transaction to the EZ payment server B26. The transaction history for the PGD B24 may be stored on the PGD B24 as well as on the EZ payment server B26 of course. Next, a receipt for the transaction may be printed. The receipt may be carried by the game service representative and issued from a portable printer connected to the PGD B24 in some manner, or the receipt may be issued from a printer B56 at a fixed location.

[0407] After providing many game services, including many game service transactions, to different game players in the gaming area B70 using the PGD B24, the game service representative may log off the PGD B24 and return it to a secure storage location. For example, at the end of a shift, the game service representative may inspect the PGD B24 at several locations, and if the device is not assigned to a specific game service representative, it may be assigned to another game service representative. However, before the PGD B24 is assigned to another game service representative, the transaction history stored in the PGD B24 may be matched with the independent transaction history stored on a transaction server such as the EZ payment server B26.

[0408] The assignment and non-assignment of the PGD B24 to game service representatives, and transaction mediation are carried out for security and auditing purposes. Another security measure used for the PGD B24 is to fix the connection time between the PGD B24 and the transaction server. For example, when the PGD B24 is assigned to a game service representative and the game service representative logs on to the PGD B24, the PGD B24 may establish a connection with one or more transaction servers including the EZ payment server B26, server B28, server B30, or server B32. The connection between the transaction server and the PGD B24 enables the PDG B24 to send information to and receive information from the transaction server. The length of the connection may be fixed so that the connection between the PGD B24 and the transaction server is automatically terminated after a predetermined time. The login and registration processes must be repeatedly executed on the PGD B24 to connect to the transaction server.

[0409] The trading server may provide one or more game service transactions. However, PGD B24 may be connected to multiple trading servers to obtain different game services. For example, server 30 may be a reward trading server that enables reward service transactions, and server B415 may be a food trading server that enables food transactions. When a game service representative receives a reward service request from a game player, PGD B24 may be used to communicate with the reward trading server B30 using the wireless communication link between PGD B24 and transceiver B64 connected to the reward trading server B30. Similarly, when a game service representative receives a food service request from a game player, PGD B24 may be used to communicate with the food trading server B32 using the wireless communication link between PGD B24 and transceiver B66 connected to the food trading server B32.

[0410] The different trading servers including servers B26, B28, B30, B32 may be on separate networks or may be linked in some manner. For example, server 32 is connected to network B74, server B26 is connected to network B38, server B30 is connected to network B76, and server B28 is connected to network B78. In this embodiment, network link B80 exists between network B76 and network B38. Thus, server B26 may communicate with server B30 via network link B80. The communication links between different servers may enable these servers to share game service transaction information and may enable different communication paths between the PGD and the trading servers. Similarly, network link B82 exists between network B78 and network B38, enabling the game server to communicate with EZ payment server B26.

[0411] Figure 33 is a flowchart showing a method for providing a game service using a handheld device. At step B500, the game service representative receives PGD B24 and logs in to the device to assign the device. The checkout process and the assignment process are for security and auditing purposes. At step B505, the game service representative contacts game players within the gaming area who are requesting a certain type of game service. At step B510, the game service representative selects an appropriate interface on PGD B24 using a menu on the display screen B102 of the PGD that enables the provision of the game service requested by the game service representative. At step B515, the game service representative inputs game service transaction information required to execute a game service transaction. For example, to check a prize ticket, the game service representative may use a ticket reader to read information from the ticket. As another example, to provide a food service including a dinner reservation, the game service representative may input the name of the game player to make a reservation.

[0412] At step B520, the transaction information obtained at step B515 is confirmed as necessary. For example, when a player attempts to cash in a prize ticket, information from the prize is confirmed to ensure that the ticket is genuine (e.g., the ticket may be a forgery) and has not yet been confirmed. The confirmation process requires the transfer of a number of information packets between PGD B24 and the transaction server. The details of the confirmation process for prize tickets are described with reference to Figure 34. If the transaction information is valid at step B522, a game service transaction is provided. For example, a guest room reservation is made for a player who requests an accommodation facility service. The confirmation of the game service transaction may be sent to the transaction server for transaction mediation at step B545. In one or more embodiments, the method may include a step of issuing a receipt for the game service transaction.

[0413] In step B535, after service provision, the game player may request another game service. If the game player requests an additional game service, the game service representative returns to step B510 and selects an interface suitable for the game service. If in step B530 the game player does not request an additional game service and it is not the end of the shift, the game service representative returns to step B505 and contacts a new game player. In step B540, when the shift ends, the game service representative logs out from PGD B24 and stores it in a secure place so that the PGD can be assigned to another game service representative. In step B545, before the PGD B24 is given to a different game service representative, a transaction reconciliation is performed to ensure that the transaction history recorded on the PGD matches the transactions previously verified at the transaction server during the game service representative's shift period. The transaction history on the PGD B24 may be stored in a removable memory storage device of the PGD. In this way, the memory may be removed from the device for transaction reconciliation and replaced with a new memory. In this way, the transaction information from the previous game service representative assigned to the device is reconciled while the device with the new memory is given to the new game service representative.

[0414] FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a method of verifying information to provide a personal game service. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the ticket is verified in a manner consistent with the EZ payment ticket system. The EZ payment ticket is typically used for prize tickets. However, the system may be adapted to provide tickets for other services including food services, prize services or accommodation facility services. In step B600, a request for game service transaction information read from the ticket is sent to an appropriate transaction server via the wireless communication interface of PGD B24, as described with reference to FIG. 29. In step B605, the server identifies which clerk verification tickets (CVTs) B34, B36 own the ticket. When a CVT owns the ticket, it stores information regarding the status of a specific ticket issued from the game machines connected to CVTs B34, B36. In step B610, the server sends a ticket payment request to the CVT identified as the owner of the ticket. Generally, a payment request for the service indicated on the ticket is requested. For a cash ticket, the payment request means that a cash-out request for the ticket has been made. For a free meal, the payment request means that a request for obtaining the meal has been made. In step B615, the CVT receives the ticket payment request and marks the ticket as pending. While the ticket is pending, any attempt to verify the ticket with similar information is blocked by the CVT.

[0415] In step B620, CVTs B34, B36 reply to the server with a response using context information. As an example, the context information may be the time and place when the ticket was issued. Information from the CVT to the server may be sent as one or more data packets according to a communication standard shared by the CVT and the server. In step B625, after receiving the confirmation response from the CVT, the server marks the payment request as pending and sends a payment order to PGD B24. While the payment request is pending, the server does not permit other tickets with the same information as the ticket with the pending payment request to be verified.

[0416] In step B630, the game service representative may select to accept or reject the payment instruction from the server. If the game service representative accepts the payment request from the server in step B640, PGD B24 sends a response to the transaction server to confirm that the transaction has been executed. The transaction server marks the request as paid, thereby preventing other tickets with the same information from being confirmed. In step B645, the server sends a confirmation to the CVT to enable the CVT to change the mark of the request from pending to paid. If the game service representative rejects the payment instruction from the server, PGD B24 sends a response to the server to change the mark of the payment request from pending to unpaid. When the ticket is marked as unpaid, the ticket may be confirmed by other PGD B24s or other confirmation devices. In step B655, the server sends a response to the CVT to change the mark of the payment request from pending to unpaid, thereby enabling the confirmation of the ticket.

[0417] In one or more embodiments, the ticket may be used to provide credit / value for setting the eligibility of a service or item, such as the right to play a game or obtain food. The PGD B24 may include a card reader B140. In such a configuration, a user of the PGD B24 may use a credit card or other magnetic stripe type card to provide credit / value. In various embodiments, the PGD B24 may include one or more other types of devices for obtaining / receiving information, such as a smart card reader. In such a configuration, the PGD B24 device may read information from a credit card, smart card, or other device. Such cards may include well-known credit or debit cards. This information may be used to provide credit / value. In the example of a credit card, the user's account information may be read from the card and transmitted from the PGD B24 to the controller B42. The credit card / credit verification information may be associated with a credit card server (not shown). This credit server may cooperate with a bank or other enterprise located away from the casino or the location where the PGD B24 and the controller B42 are used. A communication link may be provided between the controller B42 and a remote server for sending credit card information.

[0418] In some embodiments, when a player uses a smart card or credit card, the associated credit or value may be communicated to the EZ payment server B26, and the credit amount may be handled in the same manner as if the credit / value were provided by a ticket. If the player wishes to cash out, the EZ payment server B26, which has a record of the initial credit amount, the amount of the prize, losses or payments, may issue a ticket to the player corresponding to the total amount of the credit.

[0419] According to various embodiments, a game system including one or more portable game devices is provided. The portable game device enables a player to play one or more games in various locations such as a hotel room, a restaurant, or other places. These locations may be away from traditional game areas where stand-alone, generally fixed gaming machines are placed.

[0420] In one or more embodiments, a player may use the portable game device not only to play games but also to obtain other products and services. Further, in one or more embodiments, the portable game device may be used by a game service representative to perform various functions and provide various services to the player.

[0421] It should be understood that the foregoing description includes only those having implementable technologies that may be utilized according to various embodiments. According to various embodiments, other technologies may be used or considered. Regardless of existing or undeveloped technologies, various embodiments may be implemented using any suitable technology.

[0422] Wireless bidirectional system According to various embodiments, a wireless bidirectional game system includes one or more wireless game devices, a receiver, and a central processor. The wireless bidirectional game system may also include a terminal that communicates with the central processor.

[0423] In a game environment using a wireless bidirectional game system, a player receives a wireless game device from a game administrator representing a game company or "house". The wireless game device can receive betting information as an instruction input by the player and transmit the received betting information, together with identification information, to a receiver by wireless transmission.

[0424] The wireless bidirectional game system may support a number of wireless game devices within one game facility. The wireless transmission range from the wireless game device may be up to 100 feet.

[0425] According to various embodiments, a player inputs information into the wireless game device, for example, by pressing a push button or a key of the device. The wireless game device may include any number of buttons, for example, from 5 to 20, in a keypad type arrangement. The buttons may be marked with numbers from 0 to 9 and may include a "$" (dollar sign) key and an "input" key so that the player can easily input betting information. In various embodiments, the wireless game device includes at least 8 player selection buttons (e.g., numbers) and at least 5 special function buttons (e.g., for requesting the player's balance of income and expenses). In various embodiments, by passing a smart card incorporating a microprocessor chip or a magnetic stripe with encrypted information through the smart card reader of the wireless game device, the player can input some or all of the betting information into the wireless game device.

[0426] In various embodiments, the wireless game device may include an identifier. The identifier may be, for example, a continuous symbol combining alphabet and numbers, a barcode, or a magnetic stripe attached to the device. In various embodiments, the identifier may be a digital code stored in a secure memory, for example, an electronically erasable and programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). If the identifier is a continuous symbol combining alphabet and numbers, the identifier may be directly read by a game administrator or may be automatically read by a barcode reader or a magnetic tape reader. In various embodiments, the identifier may be programmed into the EEPROM or may be read from the EEPROM via an RS-232 port directly connected to the encryption and decryption circuit of the terminal.

[0427] The wireless game device may store an encryption key. The encryption key may be used to encrypt the information transmitted from the device to the receiver. Encryption of the information transmitted to the receiver limits tampering with the wireless game machine and prevents an uncertified or fake device from being used with the system.

[0428] In various embodiments, the encryption key may be stored in an EEPROM. The EEPROM has the advantage of being a storage device that is difficult to access when a suitable encryption circuit cannot be utilized. Thus, the encryption circuit that downloads the encryption key to the device is considered to be securely maintained by the game administrator.

[0429] Alternatively, when the game device is handed over to the player, the game device may be directly connected to the encryption and decryption device in the terminal via a port, and the encryption key stored in the EEPROM may be updated and changed for each player who receives the game device. Further, other digital information related to the game being executed may be downloaded from the terminal to the EEPROM by a direct connection with the wireless game device.

[0430] In various embodiments, a microprocessor controls the operation of the wireless game device. The microprocessor receives digital bet information input by the player using the buttons or keys of the wireless game device. The microprocessor stores an identification code of the wireless game device, which is the digital equivalent of the identifier of the wireless game device. The microprocessor also executes a software application for encrypting the identification code and the player's bet information for transmission to the receiver. The software includes an algorithm that encrypts a data packet including the identification code and the bet information with an encryption key.

[0431] In various embodiments, the wireless game device has a unique address, i.e., an identification code, for communication with the receiver and stores a player identification programmed into the device by a central processor. The wireless game device may include a wager register that is maintained and updated using a key of the device. The value stored in the wager register may be included in transmissions from the device to the central processor. The value of the wager register may be set as a default value to a predetermined value, e.g., $1 when the device is initialized, and may be further adjusted by the player. The wireless game device may also include an account balance register placed within the device and periodically updated by the central processor. The value of the account balance register should be set to $0 as a default value when the device is initialized.

[0432] The wireless game device may include player function keys. The player function keys may be used to achieve the following functions: 1. Transmit a message to the receiver 2. Request account balance information 3. Adjust the state of the device 4. Cause data to be transmitted in the next transmit message 5. Increase the wager register by a predetermined amount, e.g., $10, $5, or $1 6. Reset the wager register to a default value, e.g., $1

[0433] The firmware of the wireless game device may only allow a button or key to be pressed once every 100 ms. In various embodiments, key presses are not queued; when a key press message is queued and transmitted, no other player input is accepted until the queued message is transmitted.

[0434] The wireless game device may include a transmitter. The transmitter may receive encrypted digital information from a microprocessor and convert it into a signal for wireless communication to a receiver. The transmitter transmits the signal wirelessly, for example, using a wireless signal or an infrared signal. The communication between the receiver and the wireless game device may be asynchronous at 2400 bits per second.

[0435] The wireless game device may include an identification circuit that drives the transmitter to periodically transmit an identification signal to the receiver. By using the identification circuit, the receiver and the central processor can confirm that the wireless game device is operating, functioning, and within the game facility. In this way, when the wireless game machine is taken out of the game facility, the receiver and the central processor no longer receive the periodic identification signal transmitted by the identification circuit and the transmitter, and the game administrator may be warned that the wireless game device has been taken out of the game facility.

[0436] The wireless game device may include a real-time clock that enables the microprocessor to monitor the current time and date. The clock may be a timing circuit. The microprocessor can use the time and date obtained from the clock to perform calculations and other functions based on the current time and date.

[0437] The wireless game device may include a tag such as an electronic or magnetic component that issues a warning when passing through a detection device located at the entrance and / or exit of the game facility. When the tagged wireless game device passes through the detection device and a warning is issued, the game administrator is informed that the wireless game device is about to be taken out of the game facility.

[0438] The wireless game device may be powered by a battery power source built into the device. A portable power source such as a battery power source extends the cordless operation of the wireless game device in the game environment. The battery power source may be part of a removable rechargeable battery pack that enables charging when the device is not in use.

[0439] In some embodiments, the wireless game device displays information such as game information on a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a backlight. The LCD can be used to display numerical values stored in a bet amount register and an account balance register. The wireless game device may include a display receiver that receives digital information transmitted from a receiver or a central processor.

[0440] The device may also include a two-color light-emitting diode (LED). The two-color LED displays at least two colors, for example, red and green. The green light may blink at a certain time point so as to be visible to the player each time the wireless game device transmits to the receiver. When a key is pressed on the wireless game device, the red light may emit light and remain lit until the transmission is received by the receiver. When the red light is lit, no additional key input is executed. The wireless game device may also include additional light-emitting diodes, for example, to indicate when the account balance register is updated and the balance information is displayed on the LCD.

[0441] The receiver can receive signals transmitted from the transmitter of the wireless game device. The receiver incorporates a decoder that converts the received signal into, for example, digital information. This digital information includes at least the identification code of the wireless game device and the player's bet information. The digital information obtained by the decoder is sent to a central processor. In various embodiments, the communication between the central processor and the receiver may be by an RS-232 electrical interface data serial communication link at 9,600 or 19,200 bytes per second.

[0442] The receiver may receive signals from multiple wireless game devices, for example, continuously or in rapid succession using multiplexing techniques, so that many players can bet in a short time using the wireless game devices. The receiver identifies signals received from various devices by the identification codes present in the signals received by the receiver.

[0443] The central processor receives the identification code of the wireless gaming device and the player's bet information from the receiver. The central processor decrypts this information using the encryption key. The central processor can receive data from a number of wireless gaming devices in an apparently simultaneous manner.

[0444] In various embodiments, the player's account is stored in the central processor's database. The database stores the monetary value of the account balance associated with the identifier of the wireless gaming device.

[0445] The central processor manages the player's account in the database based on signals received from the player's wireless gaming device when the player bets and when a prize is awarded during the execution of the game. The central processor withdraws money from the player's account balance when the player places a bet. The player's account balance may be automatically increased by the central processor if the player wins the game in which the bet was placed.

[0446] The central processor can also store and execute a software application that includes algorithms for calculating the player's account balance, bets, and winnings. The central processor should be able to execute all of the algorithms that define the activities performed on the player's account during the course of the game, such as when a bet is entered, when a winning payout is made, and when funds are added to the player's account.

[0447] The algorithms of the central processor's software may calculate odds and payouts for a game, such as a lottery type game, during the game execution period. The odds and payouts at a particular point in time may depend on the characteristics of the game being played by the central processor and may change as the game progresses. These algorithms may be executed by the central processor to provide an accurate calculation of the odds of a particular game event occurring and a reward for the player correctly predicting that one of these events will occur. The algorithms may be executed continuously so that real-time odds and payouts are calculated as the game progresses.

[0448] The central processor may perform various activities on the player's account, which may in turn have various effects on the account. For example, when a player wins a game, his account is credited for payment based on his bet. When a player bets using a wireless gaming device, his account is debited by the amount of the bet. When the game administrator receives additional funds from the player, the player's account is credited by the amount of the funds. When the game administrator closes the player's account and pays the player, the balance of the player's account is debited by the amount of the payment.

[0449] The central processor may be located at a gaming facility that houses a receiver. In various embodiments, the central processor may be located remotely from the receiver and communicate with the receiver via electronic digital telephone communication such as a serial communication link or wireless transmission. Further, the central processor may perform a number of functions for various receivers in various gaming environments.

[0450] In some embodiments, the communication between the central processor, the receiver, and the wireless gaming device may include a polling scheme. Polling enables many wireless gaming devices to communicate with the receiver without interfering with each other. Such a polling scheme includes the transmission of digital signals in the form of hexadecimal strings. It is preferred that all communication between the central processor, the receiver, and the wireless gaming device be encrypted.

[0451] In such a polling scheme, hexadecimal digits may be reserved for a particular control protocol. For example, an attention character is a header character used to initiate all communication from a central processor to a receiver, to describe a message and to synchronize message reception at the receiver. The same function is included if the attention character follows in response to a message communication. An acknowledgement character is another header character that provides an acknowledgement to the transmitting device that the previous message data has been received and verified. The acknowledgement character can also function as the attention character to initiate the next message. An end of message character is used to indicate the end of transmission. Also, a character that complements the next byte enables the use of reserved protocol characters within a normal transmission message by preventing an incorrect control signal when a message data byte matches one of the control characters. If a message byte that needs to be transmitted matches one of the protocol control characters, a character that complements the next byte is transmitted and the complementing of the matching message byte continues.

[0452] Verification of the received data may be performed using a single byte checksum of the message information. This checksum may be the complement of the sum of the original message data excluding the header characters. If the checksum equals a value that is one of the protocol control characters, it is treated according to the function of the character that complements the next byte.

[0453] In the above polling scheme, there are three different communication modes on the link between the central processor and the receiver. First, the central processor may send a message directed to the receiver. Second, the central processor may send a message directed to the wireless game device. Third, the wireless game device may send a message directed to the central processor. In various embodiments, the message sent by the central processor may be in the form of a character string formatted with header characters, followed by an identification code of the destination device, an instruction or message, a message end character, and a checksum character. The message received by the receiver or the wireless game device may be confirmed by sending a confirmation character, bu...

Claims

1. A database having information identifying a plurality of players, a gaming device having a display, and at least one processor configured to display a graphical user interface (GUI) on the display, associate one or more of the plurality of players in the casino with control buttons included in the GUI based on the information identifying the one or more of the plurality of players in the casino, and when the control buttons are activated, display a video regarding the associated one or more players on the display, receive a bet on the performance of a first player of the plurality of players playing a first game out of a plurality of games from the first player, display the past performance of the first player on the display and show the performance of the first player playing the first game, award credit to the first player if the bet on the performance of the first player playing the first game is successful, receive a bet on the performance of a second player of the plurality of players playing a second game out of the plurality of games from the first player, display the past performance of the second player on the display and show the performance of the second player playing the second game, and award credit to the first player if the bet on the performance of the second player playing the second game is successful, wherein the at least one processor is configured as such, and a device comprising the same.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to display the name of the second player on the control button.

3. To display the video, the at least one processor is configured to send information identifying the second player as a request for the video to a casino server of the database, and receive a video regarding the associated player from the casino server of the database. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is further configured as such.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the information for identification includes a video showing the face of the second player.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specified information specifies a video indicating the second player involved in the first game.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specified information includes a video indicating the result of the first game performed by the second player.

7. Comprising a second display, wherein the at least one processor receives a second bet on the performance of the second player in the second game from the second player, and displays information about the second game on the second display. The apparatus according to claim 1, further configured as such.

8. wherein the at least one processor determines, based on a request to make a call, whether (a) the destination of the call, (b) a bet on a third game playable in the call among the plurality of games, (c) rules associated with the third bet, and (d) the call conforms to preset rules including rules restricting making a call. The apparatus according to claim 1, further configured as such.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the preset rules restrict making a call when the destination of the call is outside a predetermined area of the first player when the bet on the third game is being made.

10. A method for managing a game device having a display, at least one processor, and a connection to a database having information identifying a plurality of players, comprising: displaying, by the at least one processor, a graphical user interface (GUI) on the display; associating, by the at least one processor, one or more of the plurality of players with control buttons included in the GUI based on the information identifying the one or more of the plurality of players, and when the control buttons are activated, displaying a video regarding the associated one or more players on the display; receiving, from a first player among the plurality of players, a bet on the performance of the first player playing a first game among the plurality of games. The at least one processor displays the past performance of the first player on the display, showing the performance of the first player playing the first game, when a bet on the performance of the first player playing the first game is successful, awarding credit to the first player, receiving from the first player a bet on the performance of a second player among the plurality of players playing a second game of the plurality of games, displaying the past performance of the second player on the display, showing the performance of the second player playing the second game, when the bet on the performance of the second player playing the second game is successful, awarding credit to the first player, A method comprising the above.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising displaying, by the at least one processor, the name of the second player on the control button.

12. The at least one processor transmits, as a request, information identifying the second player to the casino server of the database, The at least one processor receives, from the casino server of the database, a video regarding the associated player, The method according to claim 10, further comprising the above.

13. The method according to claim 10, wherein the identifying information includes a video showing the face of the second player.

14. The method according to claim 10, wherein the identifying information identifies a video showing the second player participating in the first game.

15. The method according to claim 10, wherein the identifying information includes a video showing the result of the first game performed by the second player.

16. The at least one processor receives, from the second player, a second bet on the performance of the second player in the second game, The at least one processor displays information regarding the second game on a second display, The method according to claim 10, further comprising the above.

17. The method according to claim 10, further comprising, by the at least one processor, determining, based on a request to make a call: (a) the destination of the call; (b) a bet on a third game playable on the call among the plurality of games; (c) rules associated with the third bet; and (d) whether the call conforms to preset rules including rules that restrict making the call.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the preset rules restrict making the call when the destination of the call is outside a predetermined area of the first player when the bet on the third game is being made.

19. Making the bet further comprises displaying, on the display, a plurality of objects predicting different outcomes of one of the plurality of games being played, positioning the bet on a corresponding one of a plurality of different outcomes by selecting one of the plurality of objects. The apparatus according to claim 1.

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