WO2014193305A1 - Système de réseau pour un jeu collectif externe - Google Patents

Système de réseau pour un jeu collectif externe Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014193305A1
WO2014193305A1 PCT/SG2013/000221 SG2013000221W WO2014193305A1 WO 2014193305 A1 WO2014193305 A1 WO 2014193305A1 SG 2013000221 W SG2013000221 W SG 2013000221W WO 2014193305 A1 WO2014193305 A1 WO 2014193305A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
gaming machines
game
participating gaming
gaming machine
external
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/SG2013/000221
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English (en)
Inventor
Poh Po Lian
Tay Lay Ngee
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Weike S Pte Ltd
Original Assignee
Weike S Pte Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Weike S Pte Ltd filed Critical Weike S Pte Ltd
Priority to PCT/SG2013/000221 priority Critical patent/WO2014193305A1/fr
Publication of WO2014193305A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014193305A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
    • G07F17/326—Game play aspects of gaming systems
    • G07F17/3269—Timing aspects of game play, e.g. blocking/halting the operation of a gaming machine

Definitions

  • the present invention relates broadly to an apparatus for implementing an external game, to a network system for implementing an external game and to a method of playing an external game.
  • external games have been introduced to enhance entertainment levels of players. Such external games may be executed by a server external to gaming machines being played by the players.
  • the external games are typically not linked to the games being implemented on the gaming machines and therefore, are typically not dependent on progress of the games of the gaming machines.
  • External games can include, but are not limited to, lottery-type games.
  • An example of an external game is a pool/draw game whereby a single pool of prizes is accumulated and an award from the pool is given to a gaming machine participating in the external game.
  • an apparatus for implementing an external game comprising a first communication link to a plurality of gaming machines, the apparatus capable of identifying participating gaming machines from the plurality of gaming machines via the first communication link; a second communication link to two or more prize pools, the apparatus capable of selecting via the second communication link one or more prize pools for awarding prizes; and wherein the apparatus is arranged to suspend games at the participating gaming machines during implementation of the external game and further arranged to award all participating gaming machines with at least one prize each; further wherein the apparatus is arranged to award at least one participating gaming machine said at least one prize from the selected one or more prize pools.
  • the apparatus may be further arranged to instruct a random number generator process to select the one or more prize pools, and another random number generator process to select said at least one participating gaming machine.
  • the apparatus may be further arranged to instruct an external competing game for play by the participating gaming machines to select said at least one participating gaming machine.
  • the said at least one participating gaming machine may be selected as a main winner of the external game and a portion of the prizes from the selected one or more prize pools may be awarded to the main winner.
  • All gaming machines linked to the first communication link may be identified as participating gaming machines.
  • Gaming machines linked to the first communication link and returning positive machine usage statuses may be identified as participating gaming machines.
  • the apparatus may further comprise a third communication link to a display means for displaying media contents representing progress of the external game.
  • the media contents may comprise representation of selection of said one or more prize pools, representation of selection of said at least one participating gaming machine, or both.
  • the media contents may further comprise representation of said award all participating gaming machines, representation of said award at least one participating gaming machine, or both.
  • a network system for implementing an external game, the system comprising a game server; a plurality of gaming machines having communication links with the game server; two or more prize pools having communication links with the game server; wherein the game server is capable of identifying participating gaming machines from the plurality of gaming machines, the game server is further capable of selecting one or more prize pools for awarding prizes; wherein the game server is arranged to suspend games at the participating gaming machines during implementation of the external game and further arranged to award all participating gaming machines with at least one prize each; and further wherein the game server is arranged to award at least one participating gaming machine said at least one prize from the selected one or more prize pools.
  • the game server may be further arranged to instruct a random number generator process to select the one or more prize pools, and another random number generator process to select said at least one participating gaming machine.
  • the game server may be further arranged to instruct an external competing game for play by the participating gaming machines to select said at least one participating gaming machine.
  • the said at least one participating gaming machine may be selected as a main winner of the external game and a portion of the prizes from the selected one or more prize pools may be awarded to the main winner. All gaming machines linked to the game server may be identified as participating gaming machines. Gaming machines linked to the game server and returning positive machine usage statuses may be identified as participating gaming machines.
  • the system may further comprise a display means for displaying media contents representing progress of the external game.
  • the media contents may comprise representation of selection of said one or more prize pools, representation of selection of said at least one participating gaming machine, or both.
  • the media contents may further comprise representation of said award all participating gaming machines, representation of said award at least one participating gaming machine, or both.
  • a method of playing an external game comprising linking a game server to a plurality of gaming machines; identifying participating gaming machines from the plurality of gaming machines; linking the game server to two or more prize pools; selecting one or more prize pools for awarding prizes; suspending games at the participating gaming machines during play of the external game; awarding all participating gaming machines with at least one prize each; and awarding at least one participating gaming machine with said at least one prize from the selected one or more prize pools.
  • the method may further comprise conducting a random number generator process for the step of selecting the one or more prize pools; and conducting another random number generator process for the step of selecting said at least one participating gaming machine.
  • the method may further comprise instructing an external competing game for play by the participating gaming machines for the step of selecting said at least one participating gaming machine.
  • the method may further comprise selecting said at least one participating gaming machine as a main winner of the external game; and awarding a portion of the prizes from the selected one or more prize pools to the main winner.
  • the method may further comprise identifying all gaming machines linked to the game server as participating gaming machines.
  • the method may further comprise identifying only gaming machines returning positive machine usage statuses as participating gaming machines.
  • the method may further comprise displaying media contents representing progress of the external game.
  • the media contents may comprise representation of selection of said one or more prize pools, representation of selection of said at least one participating gaming machine, or both.
  • the media contents may further comprise representation of said award all participating gaming machines, representation of said award at least one participating gaming machine, or both.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a network system for an external game in an example embodiment.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic front view diagram of a front panel of a gaming machine in an example embodiment.
  • Figure 3 shows a schematic drawing of an external game system 300 according to another example embodiment.
  • Figure 4 is a schematic diagram for illustrating selection of one or more prize pools in an example embodiment.
  • Figure 5 is a schematic diagram for illustrating random selection of a gaming machine in an example embodiment.
  • Figure 6 is a schematic top view diagram illustrating a player identification card reader for use in an example embodiment.
  • Figure 7 is a schematic flowchart for illustrating a method of playing an external game in an example embodiment.
  • Figure 8 is a schematic drawing of a computer system suitable for implementing an example embodiment.
  • a method and system for providing an external game can be provided.
  • the execution of the external game comprises executing at least two random number generator processes to randomly obtain two outcomes.
  • One of the outcomes is to select from a plurality of prize pools and the second of the outcomes is to preferably select one winner from a plurality of gaming machines to award one or more prizes from the selected pool or pools.
  • the rest of the gaming machines included in execution of the external game receive consolation prizes.
  • play at the gaming machines is suspended/paused.
  • an external competing game may be implemented such that the winner of the external competing game is determined as the one winner from the plurality of gaming machines.
  • a communal/community external game can be provided to enhance entertainment levels of all players.
  • a RNG Random Number Generator
  • a RNG can provide randomly generated numbers from which, for example, the outcomes of external games are based upon.
  • the RNG is preferably independent of external factors.
  • the RNG may generate random numbers without any input or preferably, with a preceding/previous random number as an input to generate a subsequent random number.
  • the RNG may be used to generate a first random number or random number sequence that is temporarily stored.
  • the RNG is then used to generate a second random number or random number sequence that is used to be compared to the first random number or random number sequence. If the first and second random numbers or random number sequences match, an event is then triggered.
  • a third random number or random number sequence can be generated for comparison.
  • the comparison may be between the third random number or random number sequence against the first or the second random number or random number sequence.
  • the RNG may be in the form of a crystal oscillator that instructs a number generator processor to periodically generate new random numbers. If there is a seed (or preceding/previous random number) available, the number generator can use that seed as an input for the number generation.
  • the terms "coupled” or “connected” as used in this description are intended to cover both directly connected or connected through one or more intermediate means, unless otherwise stated.
  • the description herein may be, in certain portions, explicitly or implicitly described as algorithms and/or functional operations that operate on data within a computer memory or an electronic circuit.
  • An algorithm is generally relating to a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result.
  • the algorithmic steps can include physical manipulations of physical quantities, such as electrical, magnetic or optical signals capable of being stored, transmitted, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated.
  • Such apparatus may be specifically constructed for the purposes of the methods, or may comprise a general purpose computer/processor or other device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in a storage member.
  • the algorithms and displays described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. It is understood that general purpose devices/machines may be used in accordance with the teachings herein. Alternatively, the construction of a specialized device/apparatus to perform the method steps may be desired.
  • the computer readable storage medium is non-transitory.
  • Such storage medium also covers all computer-readable media e.g. medium that stores data only for short periods of time and/or only in the presence of power, such as register memory, processor cache and Random Access Memory (RAM) and the like.
  • the computer readable medium may even include a wired medium such as exemplified in the Internet system, or wireless medium such as exemplified in bluetooth technology.
  • the computer program when loaded and executed on a suitable reader effectively results in an apparatus that can implement the steps of the described methods.
  • the example embodiments may also be implemented as hardware modules.
  • a module is a functional hardware unit designed for use with other components or modules.
  • a module may be implemented using digital or discrete electronic components, or it can form a portion of an entire electronic circuit such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).
  • ASIC Application Specific Integrated Circuit
  • a person skilled in the art will understand that the example embodiments can also be implemented as a combination of hardware and software modules.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a network system for an external game in an example embodiment.
  • the network system 102 comprises an apparatus, such as a game server 104, for implementing the external game.
  • the game server 104 functions as an external game server for implementing a draw or a pool game as the external game. That is, the external game is executed external to the gaming machines of the system 102.
  • the network system 102 links or networks a plurality of player terminals or gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 to the game server 104 such that the respective gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 can be entered into the draw game.
  • the network links or communication links can be wired or wireless.
  • the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 can be in the form of arcade machines.
  • the network system 102 further comprises a pool group 1 10 of a plurality of pools.
  • Each pool e.g. 1 12, 1 14 each comprises prizes.
  • the pool group 1 10 is coupled via a communication link to the game server 104.
  • the game server 104 is further coupled to a random number generator (RNG) module 1 16 arranged to conduct random number generator processes to generate random numbers.
  • RNG random number generator
  • the network system 102 further comprises a display means 1 18 such as a liquid crystal display screen disposed substantially in view of the gaming machines e.g. 06, 108.
  • the display means 1 18 is preferably a communal/community display that is provided for view by a plurality of players.
  • the display is centralised in location within the system 102.
  • a liquid crystal display screen can be disposed in an encircling manner above the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • Media contents can be displayed using the display means 1 18, on instruction by the game server 104 via a communication link, during execution of the external game.
  • the media contents can graphically represent progress of the external game. This may enhance the entertainment level of players at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • the game server 104 generates a draw game activation command. This may be at periodic intervals (e.g. based on an internal clock of the server 104) or dependent on a random number generator result that matches a stored random number.
  • the game server 104 transmits a signal to the RNG module 116 to instruct a first random number generator process.
  • the first random number generator process at the RNG module 1 6 is to select, preferably, one pool e.g. 112, 114 for discharging prizes of the selected pool for the draw game.
  • more than one pool is selected and accumulated to form a larger pool for awarding of prizes during the external game.
  • the plurality of pools e.g. 112, 114 provide varying amounts of prizes that may be awarded during the external game. Therefore, the players may be provided with improved entertainment levels in that suspense is created because of a random chance that a large pool may be selected out of different pools.
  • the game server 104 can instruct the display of media contents to be displayed using the display means 118 during selection of a pool.
  • a graphical representation of selection of the pool is displayed.
  • the media contents may be in the form of an arrow rapidly switching between different pools containing different amounts of prizes in anticipation of selection of the pool for the external game. This can improve the entertainment level of the players.
  • the game server 104 also transmits an instruction signal for suspension or pausing of the local games at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108. This can inform/alert players at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 that the draw game is being executed. Suspension of the games at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 can also advantageously prevent the players from ignoring the draw game and capturing their attention towards the execution of the draw game.
  • the game server 104 can instruct the display of media contents to be displayed using the display means 118 to show selection of a gaming machine.
  • the media contents may be in the form of a video of a dragon encircling the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 in anticipation of selection of the main winner. This can improve the entertainment level of the players.
  • the game server 104 also transmits a signal to the RNG module 116 to instruct a second random number generator process.
  • the second random number generator process at the RNG module 116 is to select, preferably, one gaming machine e.g. 106, 108 as a main winner of the draw game.
  • Media contents may be displayed using the display means 118 to emphasise the selected main winner.
  • a graphical representation of selection of the main winner is displayed.
  • the media contents may be in the form of a video of a dragon merging into a bright light display above the selected gaming machine as the main winner.
  • the draw game comprises compiling a list of ID numbers of the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 and comparing the random number or random number sequence generated from the second random number generator process to the list.
  • the main winner is the ID number of the gaming machine that corresponds to the generated result of the second random number generator process.
  • the main winner is selected based on winning an external competing game, for example, a relatively simple and short communal external game.
  • the game server 104 instructs the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 to implement a communal external competing game.
  • a multiple player gaming process may be started for play by players at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 upon receipt of an activation signal sent from the game server 104.
  • Command codes for the external competing game may be stored locally at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 and/or transmitted from the game server 104.
  • the external competing game may be played using the display means 118 and/or the screens of the respective gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • the external competing game is a relatively short game, e.g. lasting about one minute, such that the players are not distracted from the main/local games at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • a portion of the prizes of the selected pool e.g.
  • the main winner e.g. as a "main winner prize". For example, 50% of the prizes may be awarded to the selected gaming machine.
  • the remaining portion of the prizes of the selected pool e.g. 112, 114 is then discharged to all the remaining gaming machines of the system 102 as consolation prizes.
  • the consolation prizes may be equal in proportion or unequal.
  • the respective portions of the prizes, e.g. between the main winner and consolation winners, may be predetermined or randomly assigned.
  • the main winner is awarded prizes from the selected pool, either the whole of the selected pool or a portion of it, e.g. a "main winner prize", while the remaining gaming machines are awarded consolation prizes from outside the selected pool, for example, from a gaming operator's gifts database.
  • Media contents may be displayed using the display means 118 to show the awarding of prizes to the selected main winner and/or the awarding of consolation prizes to the remaining gaming machines.
  • a graphical representation of awarding to the main winner and/or awarding to the remaining gaming machines is displayed.
  • all participating gaming machines are awarded prizes, e.g. main winner prize or consolation prizes.
  • the example embodiment may improve the entertainment level of the players as typically, external games are not arranged to provide consolation prizes.
  • Consolation prizes can also advantageously "compensate" the players' time taken during suspension of the local games at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108, thus leading to greater satisfaction or fairness.
  • the draw game and the results of the draw game are independent of the entertainment games being played locally at each gaming machine e.g. 106, 108. Additional entertainment can be provided to the players at the gaming machines via the bonus prizes awarded by the draw game, regardless of the progress or results of the entertainment games being played at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • the prizes may include, but are not limited to, gaming points, loyalty points, bonus points, bonus items, credits etc.
  • Awarding of the prizes can be via a number of methods.
  • the game server 104 transmits the ID numbers to an operator and the operator presents the respective prizes to the players at the respective gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • bonus credits may be respectively awarded electronically by the game server 104 to the players at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • all gaming machines e.g. 106, 108 participate in the external game. Prizes discharged to the gaming machines that are inactive, i.e. not being played by a player, are returned to the selected pool.
  • it may be configured such that if the main winner is an inactive gaming machine, a new draw game is conducted using the same pool. Thus, a new main winner can be selected and awarded a main winner prize.
  • the game server 104 transmits a machine usage query to each of the linked gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • a check is carried out to determine a machine usage status of the gaming machine e.g. whether a player is currently playing at the gaming machine.
  • the check is based on sensing whether a game card is inserted into the player terminal via a game card reader (compare 218 of Figure 2) of the gaming machine e.g. 106, 108.
  • the gaming machine feeds back a negative machine usage response to the game server 104.
  • the gaming machine feeds back a positive machine usage response to the game server 104.
  • the machine usage responses are transmitted to the game server 104 coupled with respective identification indicia, e.g. ID numbers, of the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108.
  • the game server 104 compiles a list of ID numbers with positive machine usage responses and conducts the draw game with the ID numbers on the list.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic front view diagram of a front panel of a gaming machine in an example embodiment.
  • the gaming machine 200 comprises the front panel 201 that in turn comprises a top screen 202, a main screen 204, a player transactions panel 206 and a player interaction panel 208.
  • the gaming machine 200 may optionally comprise a printer outlet 210, a tower light 212 and a poster display portion 214.
  • the gaming machine 200 allows a player to play one or more games installed on, or network-implemented by, the gaming machine 200.
  • the gaming machine 200 further comprises a network interface such as a wireless Wi-Fi link (schematically shown at numeral 224) for establishing a communication link to an external game server (compare 104 ( Figure 1 )).
  • the gaming machine 200 also comprises a memory (not shown) for storing a unique identification (ID) number corresponding to the gaming machine 200.
  • a game module (not shown) of the gaming machine 200 is provided to implement the games locally of the gaming machine 200.
  • a suspension/pause signal can be received at the game module (not shown) from the external game server, for the games being played at the gaming machine 200 to be suspended or paused.
  • the top screen 202 can be used to display game celebrations, promotional/advertising information or other information that is typically not primarily related to a progression of the games of the gaming machine.
  • the main screen 204 is used to display the games of the gaming machine 200, for the player's attention. Typically, the main screen 204 is the screen that the player focuses on for playing the games. In an example embodiment whereby the main winner is selected based on playing an external competing game, the external competing game can be displayed on screen 204.
  • the game server can notify the player for being selected as a main winner of the draw game via the link 224 to the gaming machine 200, in addition to the game server announcing the main winner on a communal/community display (compare 1 18 ( Figure 1 )).
  • the notification of the win can be additionally displayed on the screen 202 of the gaming machine 200.
  • the player transactions panel 206 is provided for the player to transact with the gaming machine 200.
  • the term "transactions" is taken to mean extraction of remaining points/credits that the player possesses or insertion of points/credits that the player possesses, for example, in a magnetic identification card or a radio frequency identification (RFID) card or any stored-value card.
  • RFID radio frequency identification
  • the term should not be limited to monetary transactions.
  • the player transactions panel 206 comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD) information screen 216 and a card insert slot 218.
  • the card insert slot 218 is used for receiving, in the case of a card insert slot, an identification card containing the points/credits and/or identification belonging to the player.
  • the points/credits can be extracted from the card into the gaming machine 200 for playing the games installed in the gaming machine 200.
  • the player transactions panel 206 can store the latest/updated points/credits information in the stored- value card.
  • the player transactions panel 206 can retrieve points/credits information of the player from an external server or database based on player identification. The retrieved information can then be used at the gaming machine 200 for playing the games. For such embodiments, upon the player deciding to end play at the gaming machine 200, the player transactions panel 206 can transmit the latest/updated points/credits information to be stored on the external server or database based on the player identification.
  • the card insert slot 218 can be in other forms depending on the type of identification card used by the player. For example, if the player is using a RFID card, the transactions module 218 can be a RFID reader/writer.
  • the LCD information screen 216 is used to display e.g. the points/credits information contained in the card.
  • the player interaction panel 208 comprises push buttons e.g. 220 provided to allow the player to actuate the buttons e.g. 220 for interacting with the games being played on the gaming machine 200.
  • the player can use the buttons e.g. 220 to make player selections being displayed on the main screen 204.
  • a bill validator 222 can be provided for a player to use paper money to buy credits for playing the games of the gaming machine 200. This is similar to, for example, using paper money at a vending machine to buy drinks/food.
  • the gaming machine is not limited as such and can comprise mechanisms to allow coin-in, key-in, ticket-in etc. for playing the games in the gaming machine.
  • the main screen 204 can be in the form of a touch-sensitive screen that may complement or replace the player interaction panel 208.
  • the touch-sensitive screen can be a capacitive-type sensing screen, pressure-type sensing screen or the like. That is, the main screen 204 may be a touch-sensitive screen that allows the player to interact with the gaming machine 200 using touch commands.
  • the printer outlet 210 may be provided for the gaming machine 200 to output information in printed form to the player.
  • the gaming machine 200 may print a sticker or reward voucher for the player.
  • the gaming machine 200 may also print a receipt or record of the points transaction for the player.
  • the tower light 212 may be provided to light up during game celebrations. This may attract the attention of spectators or the player.
  • the tower light 212 can also be used for highlighting technical issues, requesting assistance or service etc.
  • the poster display portion 214 may be provided for e.g. game information to be displayed.
  • the front panel 201 may be opened or detached in whole or in part from the gaming machine 200 body to allow, for example, maintenance on the circuits or components encased in the gaming machine 200.
  • the gaming machine 200 preferably, further comprises an external game participation (EGP) module (not shown) to facilitate implementation of an external game.
  • EGP external game participation
  • the EGP module is coupled to the card insert slot 218 for sensing whether the gaming machine 200 is an active gaming machine, i.e. whether there is a player playing currently at the gaming machine 200.
  • the EGP module can be coupled to other components such as the player interaction panel 208 or main screen 204.
  • the EGP module is configured to receive a machine usage query from the game server through the link 224, upon generation of a draw game activation command at the game server.
  • the gaming machine 200 - is arranged to utilise the card insert slot 218 to determine whether an identification card is inserted into the card insert slot 218, for determining a machine usage status of the gaming machine 200.
  • the card insert slot 218 comprises a sensor for sensing an identification card. If the sensor returns a null result, the EGP module transmits a negative machine usage response coupled with the identification number of the gaming machine 200 to the game server. On the other hand, if the sensor senses that an identification card is inserted in the card insert slot 218, the EGP module transmits a positive machine usage response coupled with the identification number of the gaming machine 200 to the game server.
  • the gaming machine 200 is entered into the draw game at the game server if an identification card is inserted in the card insert slot 218, i.e. it is sensed that a player is playing at the gaming machine 200. If the identification number of the gaming machine 200 is selected as a main winner in the draw game, the game server awards the player at the gaming machine 200 with a prize via the link 224.
  • FIG. 3 shows a schematic drawing of an external game system 300 according to another example embodiment.
  • the system 300 comprises a plurality of gaming machines 302, 304, 306, each coupled to an external game server or unit 308.
  • the gaming machines 302, 304, 306 and the game unit 308 communicate via respective network interfaces provided on the gaming machines and the game unit.
  • the gaming machines 302, 304, 306 may be implemented in a variety of different ways.
  • one or more of the gaming machines 302 are implemented as physical gaming machines such as arcade gaming machines, slot machines, electronic gaming tables or the like.
  • One or more other gaming machines 304 are implemented as virtual gaming machines on desktop or tablet devices.
  • One or more other gaming machines 306 are implemented as virtual gaming machines on portable handheld devices such as mobile phones, Personnel Digital Assistants (PDAs) or the like.
  • the virtual gaming machines 304, 306 may be implemented via Wi-Fi, the Internet, interactive TV or other service networks.
  • the coupling between the game unit 308 and the respective gaming machines 302, 304, 306 may be implemented in a variety of different ways, including via Wi-Fi, the Internet, or via other wired or wireless networks.
  • the game unit 308 comprises a database 310 for storing data for conducting an external game and other information such as information identifying the respective gaming machines 302, 304, 306. Further, the game unit 308 comprises a processor module 312 coupled to the database 310.
  • the processor module 312 is capable of conducting the external game at periodic or random timings, for functioning as a RNG and for awarding prizes to players on the respective gaming machines 302, 304, 306, e.g. based on the information stored in the database 310.
  • the processor module 312 is coupled to a pool group 314 comprising a plurality of different prize pools.
  • the processor module 312 is further coupled to a display means 316 that functions as a communal/community display that is substantially viewable by players of the plurality of gaming machines 302, 304, 306. During execution of the external game, the processor module 312 is capable of suspending play of the games at the plurality of gaming machines 302, 304, 306. The processor module 312 is capable of randomly selecting a pool from the pool group 314. Preferably, the processor module 312 is capable of displaying a pool selection graphic or media display on the display means 316. Furthermore, the processor module 312 is capable of randomly selecting a gaming machine from the plurality of gaming machines 302, 304, 306 as a main winner of the external game.
  • the processor module 312 is capable of instructing the gaming machines 302, 304, 306 to implement an external competing game such that a winner of the external competing game is selected as a main winner of the external game.
  • the processor module 312 is capable of displaying a main winner selection graphic or media display on the display means 316.
  • the processor module 312 is capable of awarding a portion of the selected pool of prizes to the main winner and a remaining portion of the selected pool of prizes to all the remaining participating gaming machines, such that all participating gaming machines are at least awarded one or more prizes.
  • all gaming machines 302, 304, 306 may be participating gaming machines. Prizes awarded to gaming machines that are inactive, i.e. not currently being played by players, are returned to the selected pool. Alternatively, active gaming machines i.e. those being played currently by players, are all designated as participating gaming machines.
  • each of the gaming machines 302, 304, 306 preferably comprises an external game participation (EGP) module configured for receiving a machine usage query from the game unit 308; for determining a machine usage status of the gaming machine and for transmitting a machine usage response to the database 310 of the game unit 308.
  • EGP external game participation
  • the EGP module may be implemented as a software application installed on the gaming machines.
  • the software application can be downloaded via the respective network interfaces provided on the gaming machines. Accordingly, information on whether the players are playing at the respective gaming machines 302, 304, 306 are transmitted to the game unit 308.
  • the game unit 308 registers that players are playing at the gaming machines 302, 304, 306 via the respective network interfaces or communication links. Prizes awarded by the external game can be awarded to players on the respective gaming machines 302, 304, 306 based on respective machine usage responses under the control of the processor 312.
  • the processor 312 awards the prizes based on results of the external game and independent of the entertainment games implemented on the respective gaming machines 302, 304, 306. It will be appreciated that the external game system 300 thus provides a distributed external gaming environment with a centralized external game database for conducting an external game and awarding prizes to players on the respective gaming machines 302, 304, 306.
  • the gaming machines are described as being linked to a game server or unit. Also, the example embodiments are described as having more than two gaming machines linked in a network or system.
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for illustrating selection of one or more prize pools in an example embodiment.
  • a selection module 402 is provided.
  • the selection module 402 is electronically coupled to or in a communication link with a group 404 of prize pools 406, 408, 410, 412.
  • the selection module 402 may preferably be a RNG module.
  • the selection module 402 may also take other forms and is provided to facilitate selection of one or more prize pools from the group 404.
  • the selection module 402 receives a random selection signal from a game server (compare 104 ( Figure 1)) and randomly selects a prize pool.
  • a game server compare 104 ( Figure 1)
  • the selection module 402 retrieves ID numbers of the prize pools 406, 408, 410, 412 and compiles the ID numbers into a list.
  • a RNG process is performed and a RNG result is produced to compare against the ordered compiled list.
  • the matched ID number is then selected and the corresponding prize pool is selected as the pool for the external game.
  • a second RNG process is performed and a second prize pool is selected to be added to the first selected pool.
  • the example embodiment may further include a likelihood of trigger configuration.
  • the different pools may comprise different weighting factors.
  • the weighting factors may be based on the current prize pool sizes or other predetermined weights.
  • the ID numbers are replicated according to different weights and randomly compiled into a list. For example, an ID number "A1" may be replicated four times if a weighting factor of the corresponding pool is four, and the four instances of "A1" are incorporated into the list. Thus, the larger/heavier a weighting factor, the higher the likelihood of a particular pool being selected (due to more occurrences in the list).
  • a RNG process is performed and a RNG result is produced to compare against the ordered compiled list. The matched ID number is then selected and the corresponding prize pool is selected as the pool for the external game.
  • the selected pool details are transmitted by the selection module 402 to the instructing game server for facilitating award of prizes from the selected pool.
  • This may include the game server retrieving current prize sizes, values etc. and calculation of one or more portions etc. for the awarding of prizes.
  • the prize pools 406, 408, 410, 412 can be "built up" or accumulated with prizes based on a gaming operator's contribution of prizes. Alternatively, the prizes may be accumulated based on contribution of prizes from active gaming machines etc.
  • Figure 5 is a schematic diagram for illustrating random selection of a gaming machine in an example embodiment.
  • a selection module 502 is provided.
  • the selection module 502 is electronically coupled to or in a communication link with gaming machines 504, 506, 508.
  • the selection module 502 may preferably be a RNG module.
  • the selection module 502 may take other forms and is provided to facilitate selection of a gaming machine from the plurality of gaming machines in the link.
  • the selection module 502 receives a random selection signal from a game server (compare 104 ( Figure 1)) and randomly selects a gaming machine, e.g. as a main winner of the external game.
  • a game server compare 104 ( Figure 1)
  • the selection module 502 retrieves ID numbers of the gaming machines 504, 506, 508 and compiles the ID numbers into a list. A RNG process is performed and a RNG result is produced to compare against the ordered compiled list. The matched ID number is then selected and the corresponding gaming machine is selected.
  • the selected gaming machine details are transmitted by the selection module 502 to the instructing game server for facilitating award of prizes from a selected pool.
  • This may include the game server retrieving current machine usage status, Internet Protocol (IP) address, machine protocol format etc. and establishing a link/method to award the prize or prizes from the selected pool(s) to the gaming machine or the player at the gaming machine.
  • IP Internet Protocol
  • the selection module 502 can be configured to retrieve ID numbers of only active gaming machines, i.e. gaming machines that are being played by players.
  • the active gaming machines are identified based on the machine usage statuses, queried by the game server, and responded by each gaming machine.
  • the ID numbers of the active gaming machines are compiled into a list and selection of the main winner is based on the active gaming machines.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic top view diagram illustrating a player identification card reader 600 for use in an example embodiment.
  • the player identification card reader 600 may be removable from a gaming machine.
  • the card reader 600 comprises a card slot 602 (compare card insert slot 218 ( Figure 2)), a card reading circuit 604, a network interface or connector port 606, a memory/database module 608 and a processing slot 610 having installed thereon, or coupled to, an external game participation (EGP) module.
  • the EGP module can be a dedicated processor circuit such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) or a dedicated chip such as an ASIC chip.
  • the card reading circuit 604 comprises a card reading processor 612 and a card sensor 614.
  • the components of the removable card reader 600 communicate via bus lines e.g. 616, 618.
  • the card reader 600 further comprises a wireless communication module 628 coupled to a wireless reader interface 630.
  • the EGP module is configured for receiving a machine usage query from an external game server; for determining a machine usage status of the gaming machine and for transmitting a machine usage response to the external game server. Such communication can be via the port 606.
  • the card slot 602 is configured to receive player identification cards, game cards or stored-value cards.
  • the card slot 602 can comprise, but is not limited to, a magnetic swipe unit for reading magnetic cards.
  • the card reading circuit 604 enables reading and writing of the game cards or stored value cards.
  • the connector port 606 enables the card reader 600 to be connected to an electronic device such as a gaming machine.
  • the port 606 can be in the form of a serial port or a parallel port or a USB port.
  • the port 606 can comprise a first communication element for establishing a communication link to the gaming machine and a second communication element for establishing a communication link to the external game server.
  • the memory/database module 608 is provided for storing information or data for use by the components of the card reader 600.
  • the card sensor 614 is provided for sensing whether a game card or stored-value card is inserted into the card slot 602.
  • the wireless communication module 628 comprises electronic circuitry that can enable contactless card reading via the wireless reader interface 630.
  • the wireless communication module 628 can enable Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) communication or near-field communication (NFC) with a game card.
  • RFID Radio Frequency Identification
  • NFC near-field communication
  • the card reader 600 is controlled in its execution by the card reading processor 612.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart 700 for illustrating a method of playing an external game in an example embodiment.
  • a game server is linked to a plurality of gaming machines.
  • participating gaming machines are identified from the plurality of gaming machines.
  • the game server is linked to two or more prize pools.
  • one or more prize pools is selected for awarding prizes.
  • games at the participating gaming machines are suspended during play of the external game.
  • all participating gaming machines are awarded with at least one prize each.
  • at least one participating gaming machine is awarded with said at least one prize that is obtained from the selected one or more prize pools.
  • a community-type or communal-type external game can be provided.
  • one or more prize pools are selected from a plurality of pools.
  • the different pools can provide varying amounts of prizes that may be awarded during an external game. Therefore, the players may advantageously be provided with improved entertainment levels in that suspense is created because of a random chance that a large pool may be selected out of different pools.
  • the local games at the gaming machines are suspended/paused to inform/alert players at the gaming machines that the external game is being executed. Suspension of the games at the gaming machines can also advantageously prevent the players from ignoring the external game and capturing their attention towards the execution of the external game.
  • all participating gaming machines are awarded prizes, i.e. at least one prize each.
  • consolation prizes awarded can advantageously "compensate" the players' time taken during suspension of the local games at the gaming machines e.g. 106, 108, thus leading to greater satisfaction or fairness.
  • a communal/community display can be provided to graphically represent progress of the external game. This may enhance the entertainment level of players at the gaming machines.
  • Different example embodiments can be implemented in the context of data structure, program modules, program and computer instructions executed in a computer implemented environment. A general purpose computing environment is briefly disclosed herein.
  • One or more example embodiments may be embodied in one or more computer systems, such as is schematically illustrated in Figure 8.
  • One or more example embodiments may be implemented as software, such as a computer program being executed within a computer system 800, and instructing the computer system 800 to conduct a method of an example embodiment, for example as a game server.
  • the computer system 800 comprises a computer unit 802, input modules such as a keyboard 804 and a pointing device 806 and a plurality of output devices such as a display 808, and printer 810.
  • a user can interact with the computer unit 802 using the above devices.
  • the pointing device can be implemented with a mouse, track ball, pen device or any similar device.
  • One or more other input devices such as a joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, touch sensitive screen or the like can also be connected to the computer unit 802.
  • the display 808 may include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), field emission display (FED), plasma display or any other device that produces an image that is viewable by the user.
  • CTR cathode ray tube
  • LCD liquid crystal display
  • FED field emission display
  • plasma display any other device that produces an image that is viewable by the user.
  • the computer unit 802 can be connected to a computer network 812 via a suitable transceiver device 814, to enable access to e.g. the Internet or other network systems such as Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) or a personal network.
  • the network 812 can comprise a server, a router, a network personal computer, a peer device or other common network node, a wireless telephone or wireless personal digital assistant. Networking environments may be found in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks and home computer systems etc.
  • the transceiver device 814 can be a modem/router unit located within or external to the computer unit 802, and may be any type of modem/router such as a cable modem or a satellite modem.
  • network connections shown are exemplary and other ways of establishing a communications link between computers can be used.
  • the existence of any of various protocols, such as TCP/IP, Frame Relay, Ethernet, FTP, HTTP and the like, is presumed, and the computer unit 802 can be operated in a client-server configuration to permit a user to retrieve web pages from a web-based server.
  • any of various web browsers can be used to display and manipulate data on web pages.
  • the computer unit 802 in the example comprises a processor 818, a Random Access Memory (RAM) 820 and a Read Only Memory (ROM) 822.
  • the ROM 822 can be a system memory storing basic input/ output system (BIOS) information.
  • the RAM 820 can store one or more program modules such as operating systems, application programs and program data.
  • the computer unit 802 further comprises a number of Input/Output (I/O) interface units, for example I/O interface unit 824 to the display 808, and I/O interface unit 826 to the keyboard 804.
  • I/O interface unit 824 to the display 808, and I/O interface unit 826 to the keyboard 804.
  • the components of the computer unit 802 typically communicate and interface/couple connectedly via an interconnected system bus 828 and in a manner known to the person skilled in the relevant art.
  • the bus 828 can be any of several types of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. It will be appreciated that other devices can also be connected to the system bus
  • a universal serial bus (USB) interface can be used for coupling a video or digital camera to the system bus 828.
  • An IEEE 1394 interface may be used to couple additional devices to the computer unit 802.
  • Other manufacturer interfaces are also possible such as FireWire developed by Apple Computer and i.Link developed by Sony.
  • Coupling of devices to the system bus 828 can also be via a parallel port, a game port, a PCI board or any other interface used to couple an input device to a computer.
  • sound/audio can be recorded and reproduced with a microphone and a speaker.
  • a sound card may be used to couple a microphone and a speaker to the system bus 828.
  • several peripheral devices can be coupled to the system bus 828 via alternative interfaces simultaneously.
  • An application program can be supplied to the user of the computer system 800 being encoded/stored on a data storage medium such as a CD-ROM or flash memory carrier.
  • the application program can be read using a corresponding data storage medium drive of a data storage device 830.
  • the data storage medium is not limited to being portable and can include instances of being embedded in the computer unit 802.
  • the data storage device 830 can comprise a hard disk interface unit and/or a removable memory interface unit (both not shown in detail) respectively coupling a hard disk drive and/or a removable memory drive to the system bus 828. This can enable reading/writing of data. Examples of removable memory drives include magnetic disk drives and optical disk drives.
  • the drives and their associated computer-readable media such as a floppy disk provide nonvolatile storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the computer unit 802. It will be appreciated that the computer unit 802 may include several of such drives. Furthermore, the computer unit 802 may include drives for interfacing with other types of computer readable media.
  • the application program is read and controlled in its execution by the processor 818. Intermediate storage of program data may be accomplished using RAM 820.
  • the method(s) of the example embodiments can be implemented as computer readable instructions, computer executable components, or software modules.
  • One or more software modules may alternatively be used. These can include an executable program, a data link library, a configuration file, a database, a graphical image, a binary data file, a text data file, an object file, a source code file, or the like.
  • the software modules interact to cause one or more computer systems to perform according to the teachings herein.
  • the operation of the computer unit 802 can be controlled by a variety of different program modules.
  • program modules are routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, libraries, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types.
  • the example embodiments may also be practiced with other computer system configurations, including handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, personal digital assistants, mobile telephones and the like.
  • the example embodiments may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a wireless or wired communications network.
  • program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
  • the gaming machines may be implemented as physical or virtual gaming machines, such as via the Internet, interactive TV, Local Area Network (LAN)-based or other service networks.
  • the virtual gaming machines may be implemented on desk top devices or portable devices.
  • touch screen keys have been described in the example embodiments, other actuators such as mechanical keys or pull/push handles may also be used to play the games contained in the gaming machines.
  • determining whether a player is playing at a gaming machine or a player terminal is described as based on whether a game card is inserted in a card reader.
  • the determining is not limited as such and can include e.g. checking whether the entertainment game at the gaming machine is ongoing or checking whether there are any available credits deposited at the gaming machine for playing the entertainment game.
  • This can be achieved by installing the EGP module e.g. as an ASIC chip internal the gaming machine or by implementing the EGP module e.g. as a software application installed on the gaming machine.
  • the EGP module can either be external or internal to the gaming machine.
  • the gaming machines in the example embodiments are linked to an external game server or unit.
  • the communication links are not limited to wireless links and can include wired and/or cable links.
  • the link in the example embodiments is described to be between a game server or unit and a gaming machine.
  • the example embodiments are not limited as such and can be modified to include a link directly from the game server or unit to the EGP module for determining whether a player is playing at a gaming machine (i.e. without further processing via the gaming machine).
  • RNG processes and/or one or more RNG have been described for selection of a pool of prizes and selection of a main winner, it will be appreciated that the example embodiments are not limited as such and can include any other ways or methods for selection of the one or more pools of prizes and selection of the main winner.
  • the example embodiments are not intended to be limited as such.
  • the example embodiments may alternatively be directed at selecting a plurality of major winners with the rest of the participating gaming machines being minor winners. It may even be provided that a selected main winner is not awarded a different proportion of prizes as compared to the remaining participating gaming machines but rather, the main winner may be provided with e.g. a larger media display etc., while all participating gaming machines win the same number of prizes.

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Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système de réseau et un appareil d'implémentation d'un jeu externe, l'appareil comprend une première liaison de communication à une pluralité d'appareils de jeu, l'appareil pouvant identifier la participation des appareils de jeu parmi la pluralité d'appareils de jeu par l'intermédiaire de la première liaison de communication; une seconde liaison de communication à au moins deux cagnottes, l'appareil pouvant sélectionner par l'intermédiaire de la seconde liaison de communication une ou plusieurs cagnottes pour décerner des prix; et l'appareil étant conçu pour suspendre des jeux sur les appareils de jeu participants pendant l'implémentation du jeu externe et conçu en outre pour décerner les prix à tous les appareils de jeu participants, avec au moins un prix à chacun; l'appareil étant en outre conçu pour décerner à au moins un appareil de jeu participant ledit ou lesdits prix provenant de l'une ou plusieurs cagnottes sélectionnées.
PCT/SG2013/000221 2013-05-30 2013-05-30 Système de réseau pour un jeu collectif externe Ceased WO2014193305A1 (fr)

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US6565434B1 (en) * 1994-10-12 2003-05-20 Acres Gaming, Inc. Method and apparatus for promoting play on a network of gaming devices
US20070281784A1 (en) * 2006-05-17 2007-12-06 Seelig Jerald C Progressive gaming device and method of use

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US6565434B1 (en) * 1994-10-12 2003-05-20 Acres Gaming, Inc. Method and apparatus for promoting play on a network of gaming devices
US20070281784A1 (en) * 2006-05-17 2007-12-06 Seelig Jerald C Progressive gaming device and method of use

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