Loyalty Virtual Objects Across Gaming Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current loyalty programs in casinos and other enterprises face challenges in enhancing customer loyalty beyond traditional methods, particularly in encouraging repeat visits and engaging users through interactive and entertaining means that do not require wagering, while also providing opportunities for progressive jackpot games.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that uses configurable virtual objects with associable attributes, accessible through terminals and remote devices, where users can acquire and interact with virtual pets, environments, or items, earning virtual currency redeemable for attributes or accessories, and qualifying them for progressive jackpot games through engagement with the enterprise across physical and digital platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional loyalty programs using loyalty cards and comps are implemented, then customer purchase information is collected for business intelligence and marketing, but customer loyalty enhancement beyond traditional methods is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of physical casino experiences through virtual objects, environments, and activities that can be accessed digitally. Users can collect virtual objects, customize virtual environments, and engage in virtual casino activities without physically visiting the casino, thereby enhancing loyalty program versatility while maintaining data collection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a digital dimension to traditional loyalty programs by introducing virtual objects, avatars, and online interactions alongside physical casino visits. This multi-dimensional approach allows customers to engage with the loyalty program both physically and virtually, increasing engagement versatility while continuing to collect purchase information through integrated tracking.
2Ease of operation
If virtual objects and interactive experiences are introduced to enhance engagement, then user interaction and entertainment are increased, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal virtual object system that can be accessed across multiple platforms including mobile devices, tablets, and computer systems. The same virtual objects, collections, and interactions are available regardless of the device used, simplifying the user experience while the backend system handles platform-specific complexities transparently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a server-based intermediary that manages the complexity of virtual object storage, user profiles, and interaction tracking. The server acts as a mediator between the user's device and the complex data structures required for virtual collections, achievements, and progressive jackpot qualifications, shielding users from system complexity while enabling sophisticated interactions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual objects are made accessible through multiple platforms including remote devices, then user accessibility and engagement are improved, but data management and synchronization complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback mechanisms that continuously synchronize virtual object collections and user progress across all platforms. When a user collects a virtual object or achieves a milestone on one device, the system immediately updates and notifies the user's profile, ensuring consistency across mobile, tablet, and computer platforms without requiring manual synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures virtual object data structures and user profiles on the server before users access them through different platforms. This preliminary setup includes defining collection rules, achievement criteria, and synchronization protocols in advance, allowing seamless cross-platform access without requiring complex real-time data management during user interactions.
4Ease of operation
If progressive jackpot games are qualified through virtual object collection rather than traditional wagering, then user engagement without wagering is enabled, but game qualification tracking complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service virtual object collection where users automatically gather virtual objects through their own actions such as visiting the casino, making purchases, or completing tasks. The system automatically tracks collections, verifies completion criteria, and qualifies users for progressive jackpot games without requiring manual intervention or complex tracking algorithms, as the virtual object accumulation itself serves as the qualification mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
Gaming systems and methods are set forth designed to promote user loyalty with an enterprise. The user obtains a virtual object such as a virtual dog and earns the ability to acquire accessories or upgrades for their virtual dog through interaction with the enterprise. Certain accessories or upgrades may only be acquired or restored at a physical, brick and mortar venue for the enterprise to encourage the user to visit the venue. Acquisition of attributes such as accessories and upgrades may provide a basis for tournaments and prizes. The virtual object may be accessed and displayed at terminals at the venue or at remote devices. Acquisition of virtual objects may be used to qualify the user for a feature such as a progressive jackpot game.