Modular gaming system

Abstract

Methods and systems are disclosed for generating and customizing a new casino game. The new casino game is generated by receiving a selection of a base game, the base game having a set of basic rules and a set of advanced rules; receiving a selection of one or more modular components; customizing the advanced rules in accordance with the selection of the one or more modular components; and generating a set of new rules for the new casino game by combining the basic rules of the base game with the customized advanced rules.

Description

MODULAR GAMING SYSTEMTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and computer-implemented methods for generating customized rules for casino games. Particular embodiments have example applications for designing or otherwise providing a wide variety of original games for land based and digital (mobile / online) casinos.RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority from United States application No. 63 / 542,723 filed October 5, 2023 entitled “MODULAR GAMING SYSTEM”. For the purposes of the United States, this application claims the benefit under 35 USC §119 of United States application No. 63 / 542,723 filed October 5, 2023 entitled “MODULAR GAMING SYSTEM”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0003] Casinos are popular entertainment destinations which provide a social setting for people to gather, interact, and enjoy shared experiences. Some casinos offer a wide variety of amenities (e.g., restaurants, shopping, spa services, shows) in addition to gaming, making them major tourist attractions in places like Las Vegas and Macau. For those who enjoy casino games, the thrill of gambling and potential of winning large sums of money or beating the odds can be a strong draw.

[0004] However, despite the worldwide popularity of casinos, casino games themselves can be repetitive and boring over time. Whether they are slot games or table games, existing casino games usually follow long established rules and have limited variation in gameplay. For example, slot machines and table games like roulette involve repetitive actions without much strategy or decision-making. In addition, the outcome(s) of many casino games are largely based on chance, which can reduce excitement for certain types of players. For those seeking variety in their entertainment, existing casino games often do not provide them with enough intellectual stimulation, engagement or entertainment value.

[0005] Efforts have been made over the years to come up with new casino games that address the abovementioned problems. However, there are many technical challenges associated with creating new casino games. Some of the challenges revolve around identifying or computationally determining the right balance between chance and skill or between player payout and house profitability. Games that rely too heavily on skill may not be well-received by casual players, while games that involve too much chance may not appeal to those who prefer strategy. Games that offer high payouts may not generate enough profit for the house, while games that offer low payouts may not be very enticing to players. Other challenges relate to the integration of real-time data processing and analytics to adapt to player behavior dynamically. As such, developing new casino games can require extensive computer testing and numerous iterations of computerized simulations to ensure that the games are engaging, fair to the players, and profitable at the same time.

[0006] Even upon developing a new casino game which balances the above considerations, there are additional challenges associated with navigating the complex web of regulations and compliance requirements in the gambling industry. Different jurisdictions tend to have different rules and guidelines for casino games, which will require additional computer testing and iterations to ensure that a new game is ready for commercialization. In practice, such regulatory requirements and the inherent technical challenges associated with creating interesting casino games make it very difficult and impractical to develop new casino games. Current systems, methods and software for developing casino games support advanced graphics and random number generator (RNG) algorithms, but are not sophisticated enough to automate the development of customized casino games. For most casinos, there is a general desire to provide customized games for its players, but not enough allocated resources or technological support to make the game development possible.

[0007] There remains a need for systems and methods for creating original casino games in a cost-effective manner. In particular, there remains a need for systems and computer-implemented methods for generating customized gameplay rules for casino games. There remains a need for modular gaming systems having components that can be selectively chosen or activated to provide customized casino games.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0008] One aspect is directed to a computer-implemented method for generating a new casino game, the method comprising: receiving a selection of a base game, the base game having a set of basic rules and a set of advanced rules; receiving a selection of one or more modular components; customizing the advanced rules in accordance with the selection of the one or more modular components; and generating a set of new rules for the new casino game by combining the basic rules of the base game with the customized advanced rules. The base game may be based on one or more decks of playing cards. The one or more modular components may comprise a 5-suit modular component, 4-suit modular component, and / or a half-cards modular component.

[0009] In particular embodiments, poker may be selected as the base game, and a 5- suit modular component may be selected to customize the base game. Generating of the advanced rules may include organizing a ranking of hand strength based on a five-suit deck of playing cards. Generating the new set of rules may include incorporating one or more wagers based on a specified hand of the five-suit deck of playing cards. In other embodiments, a half-cards modular component may be selected to customize the base game, and generation of the advanced rules may include providing specific rules based on combinations of half-images of cards. For example, generating the set of new rules may include incorporating one or more wagers based on the combination of half-images of cards.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the base game is based on one or more decks of playing cards, and the one or more modular components comprises a half-cards modular component and a head-to-head modular component. Blackjack may be selected as the base game, and the half-cards modular component may be selected to customize the base game by providing specific rules based on combinations of half-images of cards. For example, generating the set of new rules may include incorporating a plurality of additional play opportunities based on the combinations of half-images of cards such as canceling a bust or reverting a hand total value to a previous amount. In other embodiments, a head-to- head modular component may be selected to customize the base game, and generation of the advanced rules may include providing for a player-to-player round prior to providing for a round against a dealer. For example, generating the new set of rules may include incorporating one or more wagers based on an outcome of the player-to-player round.

[0011] In some embodiments, the base game is based on one or more decks of playing cards, and the one or more modular components is selected from: a 5-suit modular component, a half-cards modular component, a 4-suit modular component, a bonus modular component, a head-to-head modular component, an in-between modular component, an escalator modular component, a baccarat modular component, a diamond modular component, a circle modular component, a bingo modular component, a war modular component, secondary play modular component, and a tertiary play modular component. The base game may be selected from one or more of: baccarat, bingo, blackjack, craps, faro, keno, poker, sic bo, solitaire, roulette, rummy, war, and the like. A game format may be selected from one or more of: a table game, a slot game, and a lottery game.

[0012] Another aspect is directed to a system for generating a new casino game, the system comprising: a game preferences selection module for receiving a selection of a base game (the base game having a set of basic rules and a set of advanced rules) and for receiving a selection of one or more modular components; a game customization module for generating the advanced rules in accordance with the selection of the one or more modular components, and generating a set of new rules for the new casino game by combining the basic rules of the base game with the advanced rules; and a game simulator for running a simulation of the new casino game, based on the set of new rules, and outputting game statistics / analytics based on the simulation.

[0013] Another aspect is directed to a computer-readable medium comprising computer instructions for generating a new casino game, the instructions when executed by a processor causing the processor to: receive a selection of a base game, the base game having a set of basic rules and a set of advanced rules; receive a selection of one or more modular components; customize the advanced rules in accordance with the selection of the one or more modular components; and generate a set of new rules for the new casino game by combining the basic rules of the base game with the customized advanced rules.

[0014] A further aspect relates to a poker game or a blackjack game generated in accordance with one of the methods described herein. The one or more modular components may comprise a plurality of interchangeable modular components. The one or more modular components may be combinable with any base game.

[0015] A further aspect relates to a method for generating a new casino game, comprising performing the steps of methods described herein to generate a table game, wherein the table game comprises a land-based casino game or an electronic table game in iGaming and / or digital format. This table game may be reconfigured into a slot game or lottery game in physical, iGaming and / or digital format.

[0016] Simulation and testing of the game is performed, and analysis is performed on the output of the game to determine whether modifications or adaptations are needed to ensure game objectives are met (for example, game engagement, fairness to the players, and profitability).

[0017] In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by study of the following detailed descriptions.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Features and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a modular gaming system according to an example embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a computer-implemented method for generating a casino game according to an example embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 3 depicts an example of a type of modular component that can be integrated into a new casino game;

[0022] FIG. 4 depicts an example of another type of modular component that can be integrated into a new casino game;

[0023] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for generating a table casino game according to one example embodiment; and

[0024] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for generating a slot or lottery game according to one example embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The description which follows, and the embodiments described therein, are provided by way of illustration of examples of particular embodiments of the principles of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not limitation, of those principles and of the invention.

[0026] Aspects of the invention relate to systems and computer-implemented methods for creating new and customized casino games based on user or operator input. The systems and methods may be used to automatically or semi-automatically generate, for example, the gameplay rules, winning conditions, and / or betting options of a new casino game. For the purposes of facilitating the description, the terms “automatic” or “automatically” are used herein to describe processes or methods that are fully automated and do not involve any active human participation. For the purposes of facilitating the description, the terms “semi-automatic” or “semi-automatically” are used herein to describe processes or methods that are partially automated and involve some level of human participation. A casino game is considered to have been automatically created if its gameplay rules, winning conditions, and betting options were generated without active human participation (i.e., no human participation apart from the initial inputting of parameters, such as the number of players, type of game, number of decks of playing cards, etc., to the system generating the casino game). A casino game is considered to have been semi-automatically created if its gameplay rules, winning conditions, and / or betting options, etc., were generated with active human participation (i.e., human participation beyond the initial inputting of parameters to the system).

[0027] In some embodiments, a new casino game is automatically or semi-automatically created via or through a system with modular components. In such embodiments, the modular components can be selectively chosen or activated by an operator (e.g., a game designer, a casino owner, a player, etc.) to create customized games that provide unique game experiences to their players. For the purposes of facilitating the description, such systems may also be referred to herein as “modular gaming systems”.

[0028] Modular gaming systems described herein may be used or implemented to provide customized games across a wide variety of channels or platforms. The customized games may be provided, for example, through a land-based casino, in a casual or socialapplication, or digitally through a mobile or online gaming platform. Depending on the level of customization, games created or otherwise provided through modular gaming systems may involve a live dealer and / or options for players to place bets, including side bets, to win prizes that may include money.

[0029] Referring now to FIG. 1 , shown therein is a modular gaming system 10 according to an example embodiment. Modular gaming system 10 may be provided by dedicated hardware components, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. As an example, modular gaming system 10 may be provided through a computer program product with instructions stored on a machine-readable medium (i.e., a mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a machine such as a computer).

[0030] Modular gaming system 10 comprises a base game library 20 containing a collection of base games 22. Library 20 may comprise a collection of pre-written code, functions, classes, or routines. Associated with each base game 22 are a set of basic rules 24 defining fundamental characteristics of the base game 22 and a set of advanced rules 26 that may be added, filled-in, completed, and / or customized in accordance with one or more modular components 30. Using modular gaming system 10, customized casino games can be created in an efficient manner, since selection of a base game 22 will initialize and provide the basic rules 24 of the customized game, leaving only the advanced rules 26 that need to be customized through selection of modular components 30. Modular gaming system 10 may support a wide variety of computer-implemented methods for automatically or semi-automatically generating the gameplay rules, winning conditions and / or betting options of a casino game.

[0031] Referring now to FIG. 2, shown therein is a computer-implemented method 100 for generating a casino game according to an example embodiment. Method 100 may be implemented through a modular gaming system as described herein.

[0032] Method 100 begins with receiving a selection of one or more base games 22 at step 110. The selection may be received through a graphical user interface (GUI) provided to the operator, a voice input, or other means for providing selection options and receiving input. The selection interface may be a part of or separate from the modular gaming system 10. The selection interface may display or otherwise offer a wide selection of base games 22 for the operator to select. Examples of base games 22 include, but are not limited to:baccarat, bingo, blackjack, craps, faro, keno, poker, roulette, roulette, rummy, sic bo, solitaire and base game variations such as pai gow poker, Texas hold'em poker, etc.

[0033] Each base game has an associated set of basic rules 24 and advanced rules 26. The rules 24, 26 may be characterized into various categories, such as gameplay rules, winning conditions, wagering schemes, etc. As an example, a gameplay rule of a poker base game may define the number of cards that are dealt to each player or the number of community cards. As another example, a winning condition of a bingo base game may define the locations or arrangements of numbers or symbols that need to be called out in order for a player to win. As another example, a wagering scheme of a blackjack base game may define the timing and maximum or minimum allowable wagers associated with placing a bet at various particular stages of the game (e.g., as defined by the gameplay rules).

[0034] For the purposes of facilitating the description, the term “basic rule” is used herein to refer to rules that are predetermined and pre-stored in the modular gaming system. For the purposes of facilitating the description, the term “advanced rule” is used herein to refer to rules that need to be filled in or determined based on selection of the various different modular components that are available. In contrast to basic rules 24 which will be directly ported to the final game upon receiving a base game 22 selection at step 110, advanced rules 26 are not complete at step 110. In some cases, the number of advanced rules 26 associated with a particular base game may be variable and only finalized after the operator has completed their selection of the various different modular components 30 of the system.

[0035] Upon completion of step 110, method 100 proceeds to step 120. Step 120 comprises receiving a selection of various modular components 30. The modular components 30 may be provided and selected through the same selection interface that was used to select the base game in step 110 or a different selection interface. A modular component 30 may be characterized as either a game-independent modular component 30A or a game-specific modular component 30B. Game-specific modular components 30B refer to components that are specific to a base game, whereas game-independent modular components 30A refer to components that are available across a variety of base games (i.e., components that are at least partially independent of the base game).

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 3, shown therein is an example of a first type of modular component 32 that may be provided in some embodiments of modular gaming system 10. If selected, modular component 32 adds one or more additional suits to the four suits of a standard deck of playing cards used in most existing casino games (i.e. , spades, clubs, hearts, diamonds). In the illustrated example embodiment, the modular component 32 may be selected to add a 5th suit. In such embodiments, modular component 32 may also be herein referred to as the 5-suit modular component 32.

[0037] Illustratively, incorporating the 5-suit modular component 32 can create casino card games with innovations over traditional card games by increasing the size of the playing card deck from fifty-two (52) cards (i.e., a standard playing card deck with four suits) to, for example, sixty-five (65) cards. For games generated from activating the 5-suit modular component 32, each suit may cover the same ranks (i.e. ranks 1 to 13 which may or may not include 2-10,J,Q,K,A). Alternatively, different suits may cover different ranks (i.e., the variety of ranks on each card may or may not be the same for each suit). As described in more detail below with reference to the various examples, the increase in the number of cards and suits can provide novel gameplay and facilitate additional side bet options.

[0038] Referring now to FIG. 4, shown therein is an example of a second type of modular component 34 that may be provided in some embodiments of modular gaming system 10. If selected, modular component 34 modifies the appearance of the cards to include an additional half-image of a card (e.g., at the center of the card as shown). As such, modular component 34 may also be herein referred to as the half-cards modular component 34. The additional half-image may correspond to either the same or a different value (i.e., rank and suit) compared to the value of the card. In the illustrated embodiment, the additional half-image or half-card has the same value as the card.

[0039] Illustratively, games which incorporate the half-cards modular component 34 provide opportunities for more advanced gameplay and associated wagering schemes. In games which incorporate the half-cards modular component 34, each card may be used as its normal card value (i.e., suit and number shown along the outer edge of the card of its rectangular design) to facilitate ordinary gameplay as well as its half-card value (i.e., suit and number shown in the center of the card) to facilitate novel gameplay.

[0040] Other game-specific and game-independent modular components 30 may also be provided by the modular gaming system. Examples of some of the other types of gameindependent modular components 30A include, are not limited to, a modular component which specifies the number of players for a base game, a modular component which specifies whether a base game is played between players and / or against a dealer, a modular component which adds one or more bonus cards to the playing card deck, and a modular component which specifies the number of decks to be used in a base game.

[0041] Referring back to FIG. 2, method 100 proceeds to step 130 upon completion of step 120. Step 130 comprises generating the advanced rules 26 of the base game 22 selected at step 110 according to the modular components 30 selected at step 120.Different sets of advanced rules 26 will be generated depending on the different combinations of modular components 30 selected at step 120. Each advanced rule 26 in a rule set may be characterized as a rule that was generated as a result of a selection of a game-specific modular component, a rule that was generated as a result of a selection of a game-independent modular component, or a rule that was generated as a result of a selection of two or more modular components.

[0042] In some cases, the number of advanced rules 26 will also be determined in accordance with the combination of modular components selected at step 120. As an example, selection of the half-cards modular component 34 at step 120 will usually result in a greater number of advanced rules compared to, for example, selection of the 5-suit modular component 32. In situations where both the 5-suit modular component 32 and the half-cards modular component 34 are selected, the number of advanced rules is expected to be higher. In general, receiving a greater number of modular component selections at step 120 will tend to result in a greater number of advanced rules generated at step 130.

[0043] After generating the advanced rules at step 130, method 100 proceeds to creating the rules of the game, including all gameplay rules, winning conditions and wagering schemes, at step 140. Step 140 comprises combining the advanced rules 26 generated at step 130 with the basic rules 24 associated with base game 22 selected at step 110. By way of example, an advanced rule 26 generated as a result of the selection of the half-cards modular component 34 may define a winning condition related to combining or “fusing” two half-cards together to form a single card. This advanced 26 rule may then becombined with the other winning conditions at step 140.

[0044] Upon completion of step 140, method 100 may optionally proceed to step 150 where the rules of the game are fine-tuned manually. Optional step 150 may be conducted when a relatively large number of modular components 30 are selected at step 120, and omitted in situations when a relatively small number of modular components 30 are selected at step 120. Optional step 150 is omitted in automatic embodiments of method 100 and included in semi-automatic embodiments of method 100. A new casino game is generated upon completion of method 140 or optional step 150.

[0045] In addition to the exemplary aspects described above, the present invention is further described in the following examples, which are set forth to aid in the understanding of the invention, and should not be construed to limit in any way the scope of the invention as defined in the claims which follow thereafter.EXAMPLE 1 - Poker

[0046] Systems and methods described herein may be used to generate a wide variety of customized games based on the game of poker.

[0047] By way of background, poker is typically played with a single traditional playing card deck containing 52 cards (i.e., 13 ranks and 4 traditional suits consisting of hearts, clubs, spades, and diamonds). In most existing versions of poker, chips are wagered on the outcome of each hand, and players reveal their hands at the end of each round (should the round progress to the end) to determine the winning player with the strongest hand.However, each round may not necessarily reach their respective end as some versions of poker allow players to “fold” or exit the round midway without wagering any additional chips.

[0048] In poker, each player generally has two winning conditions for each round: (i) make the strongest ranked poker hand compared to others; or (ii) be the only player remaining in the round by making bets to make other players fold or exit the round. The various different possible hands in poker are ranked in strength as follows (from strongest to weakest): royal flush (i.e., A, K, Q, J, 10, all the same suits), straight flush (i.e., five cards in a sequence, all in the same suit), four of a kind (i.e., all four cards of the same rank), full house (i.e., three cards of the same value and a pair), flush (i.e., five non-sequential cardswith the same suit), straight (i.e. , five sequential cards with different suits), three of a kind (i.e. , three cards of the same value in a five-card hand), two pair (i.e., two different pairs), one pair (i.e., two cards with the same rank), high card (i.e., five card hand that meets none of the above criteria).

[0049] In terms of gameplay rules, players are dealt cards and must try to make the strongest hand with their cards. In community card games like Texas hold’em and Omaha, players are dealt private “hole cards” and use these cards in conjunction with community cards (i.e., public cards available to all players) to make a hand. In stud games like Seven Card Stud, Stud Hi / Lo and Razz, players are dealt a combination of up-cards (i.e., visible to other players) and down-cards (i.e., private cards). In draw games like 5-card Draw and 2-7 Triple Draw, players are dealt a full selection of cards initially, but are allowed to subsequently replace some of these cards by re-drawing from the deck. Upon each player being dealt their starting hand, the game begins with an initial round of betting followed by subsequent rounds of betting and player actions taking place in between.

[0050] There may be different types of betting schemes associated with different variants of poker. For example, Texas hold’em contains up to four (4) betting rounds, Omaha contains up to four (4) betting rounds, 7 card stud contains up to five (5) betting rounds, and 5 card draw contains up to two (2) betting rounds. In each betting round, players are allowed to choose from the following actions: check, bet, call, raise, or fold.

[0051] A player can elect to “check” if they decide not to make any wager, and the action continues to the next player. The “check” option can only be used if no bets have been made so far on the current betting round. A player can “bet” if they decide to make the first bet on a betting round. After a bet is made, other players must either match this bet (i.e., by calling) when it is their turn to act or exit the hand (i.e., by folding). A player can “call” if they decide to match an existing bet made by another player, or “raise” if they decide to increase the size of the current bet. If a player “raises”, then all remaining players must at least call this raised bet if they wish to continue with the hand. Finally, a player may “fold” if they decide they don’t want to call the existing bet and prefer to exit the hand. When a player folds, they give their cards back to the dealer and forfeit any right to win the current pot.

[0052] A base game of poker, used to generate new poker games using systems andmethods described herein, may contain basic rules corresponding to the various different winning conditions, gameplay rules, and betting schemes described above. In addition to these basic rules, new poker games generated using systems and methods described herein can also have various additional advanced rules depending on the modular component(s) that were selected.

[0053] For example, if the 5-suit modular component 32 was selected, then the size of the playing card deck will be increased from fifty-two (52) cards (i.e. , a standard deck with four suits) to sixty-five (65) cards (i.e., a five-suit deck), thereby providing novel gameplay and facilitating additional side bet options. In this example, each suit can be any design (which may include one or more of hearts, clubs, diamonds, spades, or other design elements) consisting of 13 cards (i.e., ranks 1 to 13 which may include 2-10, J, Q, K, A). The rankings on each card may or may not be the same for each suit. In some cases, the modular gaming system can be configured to depict the 5th suit with a branded or sponsored charity logo, icon, symbol, which creates new potential merchant / charitable opportunities and / or potential new revenue streams for charitable fundraising, casinos and other organizations.

[0054] For poker games created with the 5-suit modular component 32, the gameplay rules around the ranking of the hand strength will be modified as follows (from strongest to weakest): royal flush, five of a kind (i.e., all five cards of the same rank), straight flush, four of a kind, flush, full house, straight, three of a kind, two pair, one pair, high card. Advanced betting schemes specific to the 5th suit can also be introduced. For example, a player may place a wager beforehand and get paid out if their hand achieves a specified outcome such as a full house with all 5th-suited cards, a hand with the 5th suit, or other specified hands.

[0055] As another example, if the half-cards modular component 34 was selected, then advanced rules may be introduced to allow players to combine or fuse (i.e., connect two half cards like dominoes) half-images of their two cards to provide new play options and additional strategies. Some advanced rules may, for example, reward players who elect to fuse two cards together. Advanced betting schemes specific to the half-images can also be introduced. For example, a player may place a wager that pays out should they decide to fuse two cards together during gameplay. The combination of the fused cards may determine the payout.

[0056] As another example, if the 4-suit modular component 36 was selected, then the size of the playing card deck is fifty-two (52) cards (i.e. , a standard deck with four suits). In this example, each suit can be any design (which may include one or more of hearts, clubs, diamonds, spades, or other design elements) consisting of 13 cards (i.e., ranks 1 to 13 which may include 2-10, J, Q, K, A). In some embodiments, the 4 suits are equally ranked. However, this is not necessary and in other embodiments the suits have different rankings.

[0057] As another example, if a bonus modular component was selected, then one or more additional “bonus” cards may be introduced to the playing card deck. When bonus cards are dealt to a player during the game, the player who received the bonus card may receive a determined prize based on the value of or prize hierarchy of the individual bonus card as defined by additional advanced rules. Advanced betting schemes specific to the bonus cards may also be introduced. For example, players can place an additional wager on the possibility of any bonus card being dealt during the course of gameplay, the possibility of winning a hand when a bonus card is dealt, etc.

[0058] As another example, if a head-to-head modular component was selected, then new advanced rules will be introduced to allow players to play against each other prior to playing against the dealer. In such customized games of poker, each player follows traditional drawing rules, places bets, and plays against each other. The player who is victorious amongst all players receives the bets from all the other players in the player-vs- player round and uses it against the dealer in a new hand of traditional poker variants with established payouts and rules applying to the winner of the player-vs-dealer round.

[0059] As another example, if an in-between modular component was selected, then additional gameplay rules will be introduced to the poker base game to deal to the players additional cards that may be used during the “in-between” phases of play. During these phases, the dealer may, for example, show two face-up cards and the player may choose one of their cards to play and is rewarded based on the chosen card being ‘in between’ the two dealer cards. Each player card can only be used once, and the round continues until the players have no cards left to play. After this phase, existing rules of the poker game for hand values are applied to the player and dealer cards with payouts being awarded for the winning poker hand.

[0060] As another example, if an escalator modular component was selected, thenadditional gameplay rules will be introduced to the poker base game to deal multiple rows of cards face-down in front of the player(s). As each row of cards is individually revealed, the dealer also reveals a hand. Both the player’s hand and the dealer’s hand are scored in accordance with poker hand values and determined draw rules of the game. Players are paid out in accordance to successfully predicting the outcome of a determined number of hands and / or how many hands the player wins against the dealer before the first loss of the player hand.

[0061] As another example, if a baccarat modular component was selected, then only one hand will be dealt to the players regardless of the number of players involved in the round. Additional gameplay rules will be introduced to the poker base game to predetermine decisions in advance. Additional betting schemes will also be introduced to allow players to make wagers based on if the player hand will beat the dealer hand, vice versa, or if the hands will tie, resulting in a push.

[0062] As another example, if a diamond modular component was selected, then additional community cards will be dealt face-up in a 1x1 , 2x2, 3x3, 4x4, 3x3, 2x2, 1x1 , or nxn configuration. Additional gameplay rules will be introduced to allow players to use the card values from the poker game being played, and add them to each row of adjacent cards to produce one or more poker hands. Players are subsequently paid out in accordance to whether the hands meet certain poker hand criteria.

[0063] As another example, if a circle modular component was selected, then nine or more cards are dealt face down inside marked circles. The player(s) uniquely control the cards they receive via the choices they make during each gameplay. More cards can be dealt directly to the player(s), outside of the marked circles.

[0064] As another example, if a bingo modular component was selected, the game of bingo would be innovatively combined with any other game that is outputted from the modular gaming system.

[0065] As another example, if a war modular component was selected, the game of war would be innovatively combined with any other game that is outputted from the modular gaming system.

[0066] As another example, if a secondary play modular component was selected, then a player playing a game of poker, or any other game outputted from the modular gamingsystem, would receive one or more additional opportunities to win, extending the initial gameplay after winning or losing a hand with the initial cards that were dealt to them. The secondary play may or may not include the dealing of a new set of cards or the same number of cards.

[0067] As another example, if a tertiary play modular component was selected, then a player playing a game of poker, or any other game outputted from the modular gaming system, would receive one or more further additional opportunities to win, extending the initial and secondary gameplay after winning or losing a hand with the initial cards and winning or losing the secondary game. Like the secondary play, the tertiary play may or may not include the dealing of a new set of cards or the same number of cards.

[0068] All modular components used within the modular gaming system are interchangeable with one or more base games and may be used with one or more modular components within a game. The advanced rules generated for a base game may include one or more modular components.EXAMPLE 2 - Blackjack

[0069] Systems and methods described herein may also be used to generate a wide variety of customized games based on the game of blackjack.

[0070] By way of background, blackjack is usually played with between 1 and 8 traditional playing card decks, with each deck containing 52 cards (e.g., with four (4) traditional suits consisting of hearts, clubs, spades, and diamonds). Each card from ranks “2” to “9” carries a numeric point value equal to the number on its face, “10”, “J”, “Q”, and “K” are each valued at ten (10) points, and “A” may be valued at either one (1) point or eleven (11) points. The total value of each hand is determined by summing the individual point values of each card contained within the hand.

[0071] To win in blackjack, a player must either make a hand that is higher valued than the dealer’s hand or a “blackjack” (i.e. , any ace and any card worth ten points summing to a total of twenty-one points).

[0072] In terms of gameplay rules and betting schemes, players place a bet to begin, after which the dealer gives each player, including themselves, a card. The dealer will dealto themselves one card face up and one card face down.

[0073] If the dealer has an ace for the face-up card, then a bet called “insurance” will be offered. This bet pays 2:1 if the dealer’s facedown card is a card with a ten (10) value. Insurance wagers are purely optional and cannot exceed the initial wager placed.

[0074] If the dealer has a 10-valued card or an ace showing (after offering insurance in the event of an ace showing), then the dealer will peek at the face down card to see if the dealer has achieved a “blackjack”. If the dealer does have a “blackjack”, then the hand will immediately be revealed and all wager (except insurance) will lose, unless another player also has a “blackjack”, which results in a push. In this event, the dealer would at this time reconcile insurance wagers.

[0075] After the initial two cards are dealt, play proceeds with the player to the dealer’s immediate left. The player may make one of the following choices at this time: stand, hit, double, or split. If the player chooses to “stand”, they retain the cards and value of the hand until the dealer shows their hand and reconciles wagers accordingly. If the player “hits”, they draw one additional card (and more if desired). If the additional card causes the player’s total hand value to exceed twenty-one (21), then the player “busts” and loses the wager accordingly. If the player “doubles”, they double their bet and receive one (and only one) additional card. A player may choose to “split” if they have a pair or any two 10-point cards. If the player “splits” their cards will be separated into two individual hands and the Dealer will automatically give each hand an additional card. The player may then may hit, stand, or double as with any other hand. If “A” are split, each card receives only one card, with no option of taking additional cards. A player may double after splitting (except with aces). Resplitting can occur up to four times. A player may not re-split aces.

[0076] After each player has taken their turn, the dealer will turn over the face down card of the dealer’s hand. If the dealer has a hand value of sixteen (16) or less, another card will be dealt to the dealer. One special situation arises when the dealer has an “A” and any number of cards totaling six points (i.e. , soft 17). In this situation, the dealer may be allowed to “hit” or “stand” depending on house rules.

[0077] If the dealer’s hand total sums greater than twenty-one (21), then any player who did not already “bust” wins their hand. If the dealer does not bust, then the higher point total between the player and the dealer wins. Winning wagers pay even money, except a winningplayer’s “Blackjack” pays 3:2.

[0078] A base game of blackjack, used to generate new blackjack games using systems and methods described herein, may contain basic rules corresponding to the various different winning conditions, gameplay rules, and betting schemes described above. In addition to these basic rules, the new blackjack games generated using systems and methods described herein will also have various additional advanced rules depending on the modular component(s) that were selected.

[0079] For example, if the 5-suit modular component 32 was selected, then the size of the playing card deck is increased from fifty-two (52) cards (i.e. , a standard deck with four suits) to sixty-five (65) cards (i.e., a five-suit deck), thereby providing novel gameplay and facilitating additional side bet options. In this example, each suit can be any design (which may include one or more of hearts, clubs, diamonds, spades, or other design elements) consisting of 13 cards (i.e., ranks 1 to 13 which may include 2-10, J, Q, K, A). In some embodiments, the 5 suits are equally ranked. However, this is not necessary and in other embodiments the suits have different rankings. In some cases, the modular gaming system can be configured to depict the 5th suit with a branded or sponsored charity logo, icon, symbol, which creates new potential merchant / charitable opportunities and / or potential new revenue streams for charitable fundraising, casinos and other organizations.

[0080] For blackjack games created with the 5-suit modular component 32, advanced betting schemes specific to the 5th suit can also be introduced. For example, a player may place a wager beforehand and get paid out if their hand achieves a specified outcome such as a 21 with all 5th-suited cards, a hand with the 5th suit, or other specified hands.

[0081] For example, if the half-cards modular component 34 was selected, then advanced rules may be introduced to allow players to combine or fuse (i.e., connect two half cards like dominoes) half-images of their two cards to provide numerous gameplay options and strategies, such as canceling a “bust” event from taking place in traditional blackjack or reverting the player’s hand’s total value to the previous amount, thereby providing the player with a second chance to decide to hit, double, or stand.

[0082] For example, if the 4-suit modular component 36 was selected, then the size of the playing card deck is fifty-two (52) cards (i.e., a standard deck with four suits). In this example, each suit can be any design (which may include one or more of hearts, clubs,diamonds, spades, or other design elements) consisting of 13 cards (i.e. , ranks 1 to 13 which may include 2-10, J, Q, K, A). In some embodiments, the 4 suits are equally ranked. However, this is not necessary and in other embodiments the suits have different rankings.

[0083] As another example, if a bonus modular component was selected, then one or more additional “bonus” cards may be introduced to the playing card deck. When bonus cards are dealt to a player during the game, the player who received the bonus card may receive a determined prize based on the value of or prize hierarchy of the individual bonus card as defined by additional advanced rules. Advanced betting schemes specific to the bonus cards may also be introduced. For example, players can place an additional wager on the possibility of any bonus card being dealt during the course of gameplay, the possibility of winning a hand when a bonus card is dealt, etc.

[0084] As another example, if a head-to-head modular component was selected, then new advanced rules will be introduced to allow players to play against each other prior to playing against the dealer. In such customized games of blackjack, each player follows traditional drawing rules, places bets, and plays against each other. The player who is victorious amongst all the players receives the bets from all the other players in the player- vs-player round and uses it against the dealer in a new hand of traditional blackjack variants with established payouts and rules applying to the winner of the player-vs-dealer round.

[0085] As another example, if an in-between modular component was selected, then additional gameplay rules will be introduced to the blackjack base game to deal to the players additional cards that may be used during the “in-between” phases of play. During these phases, the dealer may, for example, show two face-up cards and the player may choose one of their cards to play and is rewarded based on the chosen card being “inbetween” the two dealer cards. Each player card can only be used once, and the round continues until the players have no cards left to play. After this phase, existing rules of the blackjack game for hand values are applied to the player and dealer cards with payouts being awarded for the winning blackjack hand.

[0086] As another example, if an escalator modular component was selected, then additional gameplay rules will be introduced to the blackjack base game to deal multiple rows of cards face-down in front of the player(s). As each row of cards is individually revealed, the dealer also reveals a hand. Both the player’s hand and the dealer’s hand arescored in accordance with blackjack hand values and determined draw rules of the game. Players are paid out in accordance with successfully predicting the outcome of a determined number of hands and / or how many hands the player wins against the dealer before the first loss of the player hand.

[0087] As another example, if a baccarat modular component was selected, then only one hand will be dealt to the players regardless of the number of players involved in the round. Additional gameplay rules are introduced to the blackjack base game to predetermine decisions in advance. Additional betting schemes are introduced to allow players to make wagers based on if the player hand will beat the dealer hand, vice versa, or if the hands will tie, resulting in a push.

[0088] As another example, if a diamond modular component was selected, then additional community cards will be dealt face-up in a 1x1 , 2x2, 3x3, 4x4, 3x3, 2x2, 1x1 , or nxn configuration. Additional gameplay rules will be introduced to allow players to use the card values from the blackjack game being played, and add them to each row of adjacent cards to produce one or more blackjack hands. Players are subsequently paid out in accordance to whether the hands meet certain blackjack hand criteria.

[0089] As another example, if a circle modular component was selected, then nine or more cards are dealt face down inside marked circles. The player(s) uniquely control the cards they receive via the choices they make during each gameplay. More cards can be dealt directly to the player(s), outside of the marked circles.

[0090] As another example, if a bingo modular component was selected, the game of bingo would be combined with any other game that is outputted from the modular gaming system.

[0091] As another example, if a war modular component was selected, the game of war would be combined with any other game that is outputted from the modular gaming system.

[0092] As another example, if a secondary play modular component was selected, then a player playing a game of blackjack, or any other game outputted from the modular gaming system, would receive one or more additional opportunities to win, extending the initial gameplay after winning or losing a hand with the initial cards that were dealt to them. The secondary play may include the dealing of a new set of cards or the same number of cards.

[0093] As another example, if a tertiary play modular component was selected, then a player playing a game of blackjack, or any other game outputted from the modular gaming system, would receive one or more further opportunities to win in addition to the secondary opportunity, thereby extending the initial and secondary gameplay after winning or losing a blackjack hand with the initial cards dealt to them and after winning or losing the secondary game. Like the secondary play, the tertiary play may or may not include the dealing of a new set of cards or the same number of cards.

[0094] All modular components used within the modular gaming system are interchangeable with one or more base games and may be used with one or more modular components within a game. The advanced rules generated for a base game may include one or more modular components.

[0095] Customization of casino games is facilitated by providing a plurality of modular components that may be combinable with any base game to generate a new casino game having advanced rules based on the modular components. The modular components are interchangeable with one another to generate a wide variety of different gaming experiences.

[0096] Turning now to FIGS. 5 and 6, methods for generating a new casino game and customizing the game using modular components are described in more detail below. The development of a new game may begin with execution of a method 50 to develop a table game, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The table game may be generated as a land-based casino game (e.g. physical table game wherein the table may be lined with felt) or an electronic table game for iGaming or in digital format (e.g. mobile and online), for example. Subsequently, through execution of method 60 (see FIG. 6), the table game can be converted into another type of game or content, such as a slot game or lottery game in various formats (e.g. physical, iGaming or digital for slot games, or paper or digital for lottery games).

[0097] As seen in FIG. 5, method 50 begins with selection 510 of a base game (e.g. baccarat, bingo, blackjack, craps, faro, keno, poker, roulette, roulette, rummy, sic bo, solitaire and base game variations such as pai gow poker, Texas hold'em poker, etc.). The base game with a set of basic rules is coded into a game simulator at step 520. Modular components are selected and advanced rules based on the modular components are addedto the base game and coded into the game simulator at step 530. Manual output is configured at step 550. The manual output may be configured using various methods, such as, for example, a spreadsheet that does not simulate a game but generates a specified output. Data is provided by an operator to generate outputs such as odds for a game or odds for a payout table, etc. The simulator is run at step 540 to simulate the base game with the advanced rules of the modular components. The simulator output is then analyzed at step 540. Analysis may involve comparison of the output against the manual output and / or client and regulatory requirements. If the analysis results in a “FAIL” (block 562), the method 50 returns to step 530 by changing the game through adding / removing and coding other advanced rules of modular components. Otherwise, if the analysis results in a “PASS” (block 570), testing is performed through playing of the game (e.g. by human operators). If this testing results in a “FAIL” (block 572), the method 50 returns to analysis step 560. Otherwise, if this testing results in a “PASS” (block 580), the method 50 proceeds to a design stage 580. At the design stage, graphics, graphical user interface and other design elements are determined. The final game output is delivered at step 590, comprising a table game in one of various formats.

[0098] The game output at step 590 of method 50 may be converted into another game or format through method 60, as explained below with reference to FIG. 6. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, such game comprises a slot game or lottery game. Method 60 begins by providing the final game output (block 590). If a slot game is desired (block 600), method 60 proceeds by reconfiguring the final game output from block 590 into a slot game at block 620. Otherwise, if a lottery game is desired (block 610), method 60 proceeds by reconfiguring the final game output from block 590 into a lottery game (e.g. played via a lottery ticket) at block 620. The process to reconfigure the table game into slot game or lottery game depends on the type of slot game or lottery game; several variables are taken into consideration and tested through manual outputs to determine whether or not a game can be reconfigured as a slots game or a lottery game. Not all table games can be converted into slots games and / or lottery tickets. At step 630, the simulator is coded with the game reconfigured as a slot game or lottery game. Manual output is configured at step 632. The manual output may be configured using various methods, such as, for example, a spreadsheet that does not simulate a game but generates a specified output. Data is provided by an operator to generate outputs such as odds for a game or odds for a payouttable, etc. The simulator is run at step 640 to simulate the reconfigured game. The simulator output is then analyzed at step 650. Analysis may involve comparison of the output against the manual output and / or client and regulatory requirements. If the analysis results in a “FAIL” (block 652), the method 60 returns to step 630 by changing the game through adding / removing and coding other advanced rules of modular components. Otherwise, if the analysis results in a “PASS” (block 660), testing is performed through playing of the game. If this testing results in a “FAIL” (block 662), the method 60 returns to analysis step 650. Otherwise, if this testing results in a “PASS” (block 670), the method 60 proceeds to a design stage 670. At the design stage, graphics, graphical user interface and other design elements are determined. The final game output is delivered at step 680, comprising a slot game or lottery game in one of various formats.

[0099] During simulation and testing of the game in method 50 and method 60, analysis is performed on the output of the game to determine whether modifications or adaptations are needed to ensure game objectives are met (for example, an assessment is made as to whether the game is engaging, fair to the players, and profitable).

[0100] The modular gaming systems and methods described herein may incorporate or be applied to a wide range of gaming concepts or technologies including, for example, artificial intelligence (Al)-based game play and module system functions, multi-player games (MPG), role playing games (RPG), massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG) as they relate to the modular system and game play within, procedural generation (PG) (for computer-created content within the modular system), user generated content (UGC) within the modular system and game play, cross-platform development (CPG), and the like.

[0101] The examples and corresponding diagrams used herein are for illustrative purposes only. Different configurations and terminology can be used without departing from the principles expressed herein.

[0102] Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the illustrative embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. For example, variousfeatures are described herein as being present in “some embodiments” or in “one embodiment”. Such features are not mandatory and may not be present in all embodiments. Embodiments of the invention may include zero, any one or any combination of two or more of such features. This is limited only to the extent that certain ones of such features are incompatible with other ones of such features in the sense that it would be impossible for a person of ordinary skill in the art to construct a practical embodiment that combines such incompatible features. Consequently, the description that “some embodiments” possess feature A and “some embodiments” possess feature B should be interpreted as an express indication that the inventors also contemplate embodiments which combine features A and B (unless the description states otherwise or features A and B are fundamentally incompatible).

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A computer-implemented method for generating a new casino game, the method comprising: receiving, from an operator, a selection of a base game, the base game having a set of basic rules and a set of advanced rules; receiving, from the operator, a selection of one or more modular components; modifying, by a processor, the set of advanced rules in accordance with the selection of the one or more modular components to generate a customized set of advanced rules; and generating, by the processor, a set of new rules for the new casino game by combining the set of basic rules of the base game with the customized set of advanced rules.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base game is based on one or more decks of playing cards, and the one or more modular components comprises a 4-suit modular component, 5-suit modular component and / or a half-cards modular component.

3. The method of claim 2, comprising receiving a selection of poker as the base game, receiving a selection of the 5-suit modular component, and modifying the set of advanced rules by organizing a ranking of hand strength based on a five-suit deck of playing cards.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein generating the set of new rules comprises incorporating one or more wagers based on a specified hand of the five-suit deck of playing cards.

5. The method claim 2, comprising receiving a selection of poker as the base game, receiving a selection of the half-cards modular component, and modifying the set of advanced rules by incorporating a set of specific rules based on combinations of half-images of cards.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein generating the set of new rules comprisesincorporating one or more wagers based on the combination of half-images of cards.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base game is based on one or more decks of playing cards, and the one or more modular components comprises a half-cards modular component and a head-to-head modular component.

8. The method of claim 7, comprising receiving a selection of blackjack as the base game, receiving a selection of the half-cards modular component, and modifying the advanced rules by providing incorporating a set of rules based on combinations of half-images of cards.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein generating the set of new rules comprises incorporating a plurality of additional play opportunities based on the combinations of half-images of cards such as canceling a bust or reverting a hand total value to a previous amount.

10. The method of claim 7, comprising receiving a selection of blackjack as the base game, receiving a selection of the head-to-head modular component, and modifying the advanced rules by providing for a player-to-player round prior to providing for a round against a dealer.11 . The method of claim 10, wherein generating the set of new rules comprises incorporating one or more wagers based on an outcome of the player-to-player round.

12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base game is based on one or more decks of playing cards, and the one or more modular components is selected from: a 5-suit modular component, a 4-suit modular component, a half-cards modular component, a bonus modular component, a head-to-head modular component, an in-between modular component, an escalator modular component, a baccarat modular component, a diamond modular component, a circle modular component, a bingo modular component, a war modular component, a secondary play modular component, and a tertiary play modular component.

13. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base game is selected from one or more of: baccarat, bingo, blackjack, craps, faro, keno, poker, sic bo, solitaire, roulette, rummy, and war.

14. The method of claim 1 , comprising receiving a selection of a game format, the game format selected from one or more of: a table game, a slot game, and a lottery game.

15. The method of any one of claims 1-14 wherein the one or more modular components comprises a plurality of interchangeable modular components.

16. The method of any one of claims 1-14 wherein the one or more modular components is combinable with any base game.

17. The method of any one of claims 1-16 comprising running, by the processor, a simulation of the new casino game, based on the set of new rules, and outputting game statistics and analytics based on the simulation.

18. Use of the method of any one of claims 1 -17 to generate a table game, wherein the table game comprises a land-based casino game or an electronic table game in iGaming and / or digital format.

19. The use of claim 18, wherein the table game is converted into a slot game or lottery game in physical, iGaming and / or digital format.

20. A poker game generated in accordance with the method of any one of claims 3-6.21 . A blackjack game generated in accordance with the method of any one of claims 8- 11.

22. A system for generating a new casino game, the system comprising: a game preferences selection module for receiving a selection of a base game, the base game having a set of basic rules and a set of advanced rules, andfor receiving a selection of one or more modular components; a game customization module for generating a customized set of advanced rules in accordance with the selection of the one or more modular components, and generating a set of new rules for the new casino game by combining the set of basic rules of the base game with the customized set of advanced rules; and a game simulator for running a simulation of the new casino game, based on the set of new rules, and outputting game statistics / analytics based on the simulation.

23. A computer-readable medium comprising computer instructions for generating a new casino game, the instructions when executed by a processor causing the processor to: receive a selection of a base game, the base game having a set of basic rules and a set of advanced rules; receive a selection of one or more modular components; modify the set of advanced rules in accordance with the selection of the one or more modular components to generate a customized set of advanced rules; and generate a set of new rules for the new casino game by combining the set of basic rules of the base game with the customized set of advanced rules.

24. Apparatus or systems having any new and inventive feature, combination of features, or sub-combination of features as described herein.

25. Methods having any new and inventive steps, acts, combination of steps and / or acts or sub-combination of steps and / or acts as described here.

Images