U.S. patent application number 10/102331 was filed with the patent office on 2002-11-14 for board game apparatus.
Invention is credited to Selman, Robert Eberle.
Application Number | 20020167128 10/102331 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24645745 |
Filed Date | 2002-11-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020167128 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Selman, Robert Eberle |
November 14, 2002 |
Board game apparatus
Abstract
The present invention is a game apparatus comprising a board
formed from a plurality of hexagonal shape spaces. The shapes are
linearly and vertically disposed to provide for a preceding column
to be offset from subsequent column. Located on opposite sides of
the board are goals. A first set of distinguishable playing piece
and a second set of playing pieces are provided. Each set of
playing pieces includes seven components: a Ballcarrier, a
Fullback, two Flankers and three Guards. The Ballcarrier is the
only piece that can score and scoring is achieved when the
Ballcarrier crosses or lands on the opposing team's goal line. The
other pieces have various strength levels, which provide for each
piece to move a specific number of spaces and at a specific
configuration. Pieces are not taken or jump, so that all pieces
remain on board during the play of the game. Other pieces have the
capabilities of blocking, which allows for the piece to move onto a
space occupied by an opponent, and moving that opponent to an
adjacent space.
Inventors: |
Selman, Robert Eberle;
(Tallahassee, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Carnes, Cona and Dixon
Innovation Park
1673 West Paul Dirac Drive
Tallahassee
FL
32310-3763
US
|
Family ID: |
24645745 |
Appl. No.: |
10/102331 |
Filed: |
March 19, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10102331 |
Mar 19, 2002 |
|
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09659526 |
Sep 12, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/258 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 3/00176 20130101;
A63F 2003/00195 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/258 |
International
Class: |
A63F 003/02 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A board game enabling movement of game pieces in play simulating
a game of football, the game comprising: A playing board
comprising: A plurality of hexagonal spaces arranged contiguously
in multiple columns extending From a first end, and A first and
second goal indicia located at opposing ends of a single column;
and two sets of game pieces, each set having: A first piece having
a first representative feature, A second piece having a second
representative feature, A third and fourth piece, each having a
third representative feature, A fifth, sixth and seventh piece,
each having a fourth representative feature; such that the sets of
game pieces may be placed on the playing board in configurations of
relative positions simulating two football teams in play.
2. A board game according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of
spaces are arranged in four long columns alternating with three
short columns each having five spaces.
3. A board game according to claim 2, wherein: Each game piece has
a disk shape.
4. A board game according to claim 1, wherein: The board is divided
into two equal halves, each half having distinguishing
characteristics.
5. A board game according to claim 1, wherein: Each representative
feature is a different unique shape.
6. A board game according to claim 2, wherein: Each representative
feature is a different unique indicia.
Description
[0001] This is a File Wrapper Continuation of application Ser. No.
09/659,526 filed on Sep. 12, 2000.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to a unique, novel
chess like football and entertaining football board game apparatus
and more particularly to a board game apparatus designed and
configured to be played by two opposing individuals on a novel
board having a plurality of hexagonal shapes, and a plurality of
novel pieces, each novel piece adapted to move in a particular way,
to simulate football, to innately provide a mentally stimulating
game that is not only captivating and amusing, but challenging
mentally as well, and one that can be played quickly yet differs
considerably when compared to conventional Chess, and that utilizes
the strategies and tactics of conventional football as played in
the United States.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Board games have been around for centuries and have proven
to be successful by inherently providing an entertaining
environment. Due to their success and the various interest and
degrees of knowledge amongst individuals who participate, board
games vary from being simple in concept, such as the popular
"Chutes and Ladders" to complex and difficult to master, such as
conventional chess.
[0006] Many have tried to develop board games that are both
exciting and challenging. Many concentrate on certain area or
arena. For example, chess, a very popular game, has been
re-invented and configured in several patents. For example in U.S.
Pat. No. 4,580,787, issued to Baker and U.S. Pat. No. 3,920,247
issued to Jenkins, there is disclosed a modified chess game having
a hexagonal shape board including hexagonal spaces, and having
spaces of three different colors. The use of this shape of board
enables two or three players to participate simultaneously. Also
included are conventional chess playing pieces that will operate in
the same manner as conventional chess. Consequently, this game
offers a different dimension on a well-known game.
[0007] Another chess-like game is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
3,964,747 issued to Balmforth. In this game, like Baker and
Jenkins, a hexagonal playing board is provided. Each player is
given a plurality of pieces, wherein each piece has a particular
function and moveability, which differs when compared to
conventional chess pieces. In essence, this game, when compared to
chess, includes more pieces, but enables a greater number of
individuals to participate. In addition, due to the hexagonal shape
of the spaces on the board, a greater versatility in the types of
moves, which may be made with the playing pieces, substantially,
increasing the challenge generally associated with the game of
conventional chess.
[0008] Other board games have been developed which try to simulate
a popular sport game, such as football. An example of such a board
game is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,245,830 issued to Sheffield.
Others have developed games by combining two or more of their
favorite pastimes. In U.S. Pat. No. 4,443,011, issued to Sheridan,
there is disclosed a game that incorporates every aspect of the
game of football as well as the concept of chess. These games that
are geared towards the sporting enthusiasts are limiting their
audience by providing games that may be challenging, but due to its
many rules, some players can find it to be a bit cumbersome to
learn, especially for those who are not fanatics about the
particular sport.
[0009] Accordingly, it is seen that there is a need to provide a
chess like football game that is exciting so as to provide a game
that is desirable to play continually and repetitively. This game
should be somewhat mentally challenging, yet simple enough to be
enjoyed and played by a wide variety of individuals, regardless of
their age and mental magnitude. The game should be quick pace,
entertaining and mentally stimulating, so as to provide an ultimate
board game to be invariably enjoyed during each moment of play.
[0010] As will be seen, the present invention achieves its intended
purposes, objectives and advantages by accomplishing the needs as
identified above, through a new, useful and unobvious combination
of component elements, which is simple to use, with the utilization
of a minimum number of functioning parts, at a reasonable cost to
manufacture, assemble, test and by employing only readily available
material.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention is a novel chess like football board
game apparatus which offers a challenging and entertaining
environment. This particular game is designed and configured to be
played by two players. The play is similar to chess, but has a
smaller board, fewer pieces and simpler more exciting techniques of
play. Thus, the present invention provides for a game, which
simulates football via pieces, moves, board and rules which enable
football like play. Enabling such an arrangement, the board game
apparatus of the present invention comprises a board having
plurality of novel pieces moveably located on the novel particular
board.
[0012] The board itself is specifically designed and configured to
provide for a novel shape and/or configuration. Located along the
upper surface of the novel board is a plurality of hexagonal shape
spaces arranged contiguously in multiple columns. The shapes are
linearly and vertically disposed to provide for a preceding column
to be offset from subsequent column. This will provide for the
spaces of odd number rows to be aligned vertically with each other
and the spaces of the even number rows to be aligned vertically
with each other.
[0013] These spaces define the area of movement for each particular
player. This board is divided into a first side and a second side.
The first side defining the first player's starting area and a
second side defining the second player's starting area. Located at
opposite ends, or the top end and the bottom end, of each side is a
goal line. Landing on this space or goal provides for the player to
score. Thus, the "GOALS" define the object of the present
invention. Since the game is to be played by two players, only two
goals are provided.
[0014] Each player is given a set of seven (7) playing pieces,
having four different playing components. Each set consists of one
Ballcarrier, one Fullback, two Flankers, and three Guards, to
constitute the seven playing pieces per set.
[0015] The object of the game is to have the Ballcarrier travel
from his playing side to the opponents playing side, for crossing
the goal line. Once the player lands in the goal, he scores a
point.
[0016] Victory is determined by who scores the most points. After
each point the game is re-started. The game continues as
pre-determined by the players in regard to the length of time of
play or who achieves the maximum number of goals.
[0017] To enable victory, the various playing components are used
to advantageously block the opponent's playing pieces and/or to
move his own playing pieces to take advantage of the field and
location of his opponent's pieces on the field (playing board).
[0018] Enabling such an arrangement, each different component (or
playing piece) possesses certain characteristics and movability
qualities. The Ballcarrier is the only piece that can score and as
such this piece can only move one space at a time. The movement
(one space advancement) can take place in any direction on the
board. This piece, the Ballcarrier, cannot be blocked nor can it
block any of the other playing components of the opponent's set.
Blocking being defined as the ability to land on a space occupied
by an opposing opponents, and moving the opponent's piece to
another location.
[0019] The piece labeled the Fullback can move any number of spaces
in a straight line. A straight line is considered the hexagonal
spaces that are alignable with each other. This piece is adapted to
block any of the opponent's pieces, with the exception of the
Ballcarrier.
[0020] Movement in any direction can occur via the Flanker. The
limitation with this piece is that it can only advance one, two or
three spaces. The Flanker offers blockage to the opposing Flanker
and the opposing Guards.
[0021] The piece labeled the Guard can move only one space in a
direction away from its own goal. This piece cannot block any
pieces.
[0022] Accordingly, one of the primary objects of the present
invention is to provide a fun and challenging board game
apparatus.
[0023] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide
for a board game apparatus that will overcome the deficiencies,
shortcomings, and drawbacks of prior board games and methods of
playing thereof.
[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method of playing a challenging game, wherein the method comprises
of two sets of playing pieces. Each set of playing pieces include
variable positioning on each section of the game board, and the
players alternately move the desired pieces in accordance to the
rules of the game, so as to enable the Ballcarrier to move onto the
goal space.
[0025] Still another object of the instant invention is to
incorporate new playing pieces having different movement
capabilities onto a board having a plurality of hexagonal shaped
spaces.
[0026] A further object of the present invention is to design a
game with a minimal amount of players that is still mentally
stimulating as well as pleasantly enjoyable.
[0027] Still a further object of the present invention is to
provide a board game apparatus that is quickly played when compared
to conventional chess, and one that utilizes strategies and tactics
of the conventional game of football, as well as provide a game
wherein the variability of moves is increased by varying the
initial positioning of the piece during the initiation of the
game.
[0028] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
board game that provides at least one playing piece which blocks
the opponent's playing pieces, playing pieces are capable of moving
opponent's playing pieces when the same space is occupied, and
moving a specific playing piece to a specific space on the board
establishes scoring.
[0029] Yet a further object of the present invention, to be
specifically enumerated herein, is to provide a board game
apparatus in accordance with proceeding objects and which will
conform to conventional forms of manufacture, be of simple
construction and easy to use so as to provide a game that would be
economically feasible, long lasting and relatively trouble free
during utilization.
[0030] Although there have been many inventions related to board
game device, none of these inventions provide the benefits
associated with the present invention. The present invention meets
the requirements of the simplified design, compact size, low
initial cost, low operating cost, ease of utilization and
understandability, and requiring a minimal amount of learning to
successfully master the game of the present invention. In addition,
the present invention is a game that can easily be appreciated and
enjoyed by anyone whether they are American Football fans, Chess
players, or are individuals being introduced to a new game.
[0031] The foregoing has outlined some of the more pertinent
objects of the invention. These objects should be construed to be
merely illustrative of some of the more prominent features and
application of the intended invention. Many other beneficial
results can be obtained by applying the disclosed invention in a
different manner or modifying the invention within the scope of the
disclosure. Accordingly, a fuller understanding of the invention
may be had by referring to the detailed description of the
preferred embodiments in addition to the scope of the invention
defined by the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] FIG. 1 is a top view of an example of a playing board used
in the board game apparatus of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 2a is a top view of an example of a playing piece known
as the Ballcarrier, used in the board game apparatus of the present
invention.
[0034] FIG. 2b is a top view of an example the playing piece known
as the Fullback, used in the board game apparatus of the present
invention.
[0035] FIG. 2c is a top view of an example the playing piece known
as the Flanker, used in the board game apparatus of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 2d is a top view of an example the playing piece known
as the Guard, used in the board game apparatus of the present
invention.
[0037] FIG. 3a is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Ballcarrier.
[0038] FIG. 3b is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Fullback.
[0039] FIG. 3c is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Flanker.
[0040] FIG. 3d is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating the movement of a Guard.
[0041] FIG. 4a is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating a slant block.
[0042] FIG. 4b is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating a straight block.
[0043] FIG. 4c is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating a goal line blocked that is
angled.
[0044] FIG. 4d is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating an alternative goal line block that is
angled.
[0045] FIG. 4e is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating yet another alternative of a goal line
blocked that is angled.
[0046] FIG. 4f is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating a dual piece blockage, a move that is
not permitted.
[0047] FIG. 5 is a partial view of the board used with the board
game apparatus, illustrating an example of inhibiting movement
between non-blocking pieces.
[0048] Similar reference numerals refer to similar parts throughout
the several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0049] With reference to the drawings and in particular to FIGS.
1-3d, there is shown the novel chess like football board game
apparatus of the present invention. This particular football like
game is structured so as to be played by two players. The play is
similar to chess, but has a smaller board, fewer pieces and simpler
more exciting techniques of play. Thus, the present invention
provides for a game, which simulates football via pieces, moves,
board and rules which enable football like play. As seen throughout
the various views, the board game apparatus of the present
invention comprises a board 10 (see FIGS. 1, 3a-3d) having a
plurality of novel moveable pieces 20 (see FIGS. 2a-3d) that are
adapted to be slideably located thereon.
[0050] The preferred embodiment for the board 10 is shown in FIG.
1. As seen in this embodiment, the board 10 includes a
substantially rectangular overall configuration. Located on the top
surface of the novel board is a plurality of hexagonal shaped
spaces 12, arranged contiguously in multiple columns, which are
arranged by abutting the sides to form vertical columns and offset
horizontal rows. These spaces are designed to accept the novel
moveable pieces 20 (shown in FIGS. 2a-3d) of the game of the
present invention.
[0051] The board itself is specifically designed and configured to
provide for a novel shape and/or configuration. As seen in FIG. 1,
the board includes a substantially rectangular configuration to
provide for the board to include approximately seven (7) columns.
As further seen, the hexagonal shaped spaces in a proceeding column
are larger in number that the hexagonal shaped shapes in a
subsequent column. This will provide for an alternating number of
shapes or spaces between the odd and even columns. Thus, it is seen
that in the preferred embodiment, the odd number columns, (first
third, fifth and seventh column) include six shapes or spaces,
while the even number columns (second, fourth, and sixth column)
include five shapes or spaces. This arrangement will provide for
the shapes or spaces to be linearly and vertically disposed to
innately allow for a preceding column to be offset from subsequent
column. Such a configuration will provide for the spaces of odd
number rows to be aligned vertically with each other and spaces of
the even number rows to be aligned vertically with each other.
[0052] It is to be understood by those skilled in the art that the
number of columns, the number of rows, and the number of spaces in
each column and the number of spaces in each row can be increased
and/or decreased for increasing or decreasing the difficulty of the
game.
[0053] For aesthetics, each preceding space can be a color or shade
that is different from a subsequent space, so as to add dimension
and character to the board. If desired, a logo, design or the like,
can be formed on the board by coloring or shading the appropriate
space.
[0054] As seen in FIG. 1, a first side 14a and a second side 14b
define the board. The division is shown via dash line 16. The
division can also be represented by providing the spaces of one
side of the board to be shaded dark or lighter than the second side
of the board. The dash line can be an indicia on the board for
defining each opponent's side, but in the preferred embodiment this
line would be eliminated, and thus it is seen that the use of this
line, for the preferred embodiment, is for illustrative purposes
only.
[0055] Located centrally at the edge of the board, on each side,
and extending through half a hexagon is an indicia for representing
a goal line 18. Crossing this goal line with the particular
moveable piece establishes a point earned and the player with the
most points is deemed the winner and thus causes the game to be
terminated. Since there are two players, two goal lines are
provided.
[0056] Each player is given a set of seven (7) novel and unique
playing pieces, having four different playing components. Each set
consists of one Ballcarrier 20a (see FIG. 2a), one Fullback 20b
(see FIG. 2b), two Flankers 20c (see FIG. 2c), and three Guards 20d
(see FIG. 2d). Combined these components form the seven playing
pieces. It is noted that since the Flankers in each set are
substantially identical and the Guards in each set are
substantially identical, only one Flanker and one Guard is shown in
the drawings. As seen, the figures illustrated a disc-like
structure used for representing a playing peace. It is to be
understood, by those skilled in the art, that the playing piece can
include any shape, structure or design that is representative as to
its position.
[0057] For distinguishing between the players, preferably, the
first set of playing pieces for the first player is of a different
color than the second set of playing pieces for the second
player.
[0058] The object of the game is to score points by simulating
football plays by having the Ballcarrier 20a travel from his
playing side to the opponents playing side, in order to eventually
cross the goal line. Once the player crosses in the goal line, he
scores a point. The player with the most points is considered
victorious and thus the game is terminated.
[0059] To enable simulated football plays, the various playing
components are used to advantage by obstructing movement of the
opponent's playing pieces and/or are used to "block" so as to move
and relocate the opponent's playing pieces, while moving his own
playing pieces in order to take advantage of the field and location
of his opponent's pieces on the field (playing board).
[0060] Permitting such an arrangement, each different component (or
playing piece) possesses novel certain characteristics and
movability qualities. Thus, to enable the present invention
provides for a particular combination of hexagonal spaces and a
different game pieces to enable game play and different game pieces
to enable game play movements and piece interaction in order to
simulate football action. The Ballcarrier 20a, as seen in FIGS. 2a
and 3a, is the only piece that can score. This piece can only move
one space at a time. The movement (one space advancement), as shown
in FIG. 3a, can take place in any direction on the board. This
piece, the Ballcarrier 20a, cannot be "blocked" nor can it "block"
any of the other playing components of the opponent's set.
[0061] Blocking being defined as the ability to move the opponent's
piece to an adjacent space. Pieces do have the ability to prevent
movement. This is known as "inhibiting movement". Thus if a piece
is located in front of an opposing player's piece and prevented by
rule from blocking that piece, then that piece must move around the
"inhibiting" piece. Thus, it is seen that the Ballcarrier does
inhibit movement for all pieces. An example of this is illustrated
in FIG. 5, as seen in this figure, the Ballcarrier for the red team
(R) cannot move forward when it is his turn, since the Ballcarrier
for the blue (B) team is located in front of him. The Ballcarrier
for the red team must either move angularly or upwards, as
indicated via the arrows. Accordingly, it is seen that the
Ballcarrier for the blue team (B) is preventing or "inhibiting"
movement for the red team's Ballcarrier.
[0062] As seen in FIGS. 2b and 3b, the piece labeled the Fullback
20b can move any number of spaces in a straight line. A straight
line is considered the hexagonal spaces that are alignable with
each other. The fullback 20b is adapted to block any of the
opponent's pieces, with the exception of the Ballcarrier 20a.
[0063] Movement in any direction can occur via the Flanker, which
is shown in FIGS. 2c and 3c. The limitation with this piece is that
it can only advance one, two or three spaces. The Flanker offers
blockage to the opposing Flanker and the opposing Guards.
[0064] The Guards 20d, illustrated in FIGS. 2d and 3c, can move one
space towards the opposing goal. The Guard's limitation is that it
cannot block, but it can be blocked in any direction.
Preferred Mode of Play
[0065] The following are suggested, but not mandatory, as some of
the more pertinent mode of playing for the board game apparatus of
the present invention. The strategy in this game is to
progressively move a piece to the opponent's goal line, while
protecting and guarding your own goal line. The movement should be
to create running lanes for the Ballcarrier to move so that he can
easily and quickly land on the opponent's goal space for scoring a
point or points. The game proceeds by using moves as described for
the particular pieces. It is not necessary to move any pieces other
than the Ballcarrier for the game to proceed, or for the game to be
completed. For victory, each player must play defensively as well
as offensively.
Positioning/Initiation
[0066] To initiate play, a player must be selected for deciding on
the first step for playing the board game of the present invention.
For selecting a player, conventional means can be utilized, such as
winning a coin toss, selecting the "correct" playing piece from a
set of two, or the like.
[0067] Once a player has "won" the selection, he has two options.
The first option is to place his players on his side of the board
first and take his turn second; or his second option is to place
his players on his side of the board second and take his turn
first. Once the decision has been made the game proceeds in
accordance to its rules. For initiating the game, the players can
place his pieces anywhere on his side of the board. The exception
is the Ballcarrier, which must be located at his goal line. The use
of allowing the players to decide on the location of their playing
piece provides for variability of the starting position for the
various playing pieces.
[0068] Each player can move one piece in turn. The turns for each
player occur alternatively.
Strategies and Opponent Advancement
[0069] Since the Ballcarrier is the only piece with the ability to
score, and is the only piece that must start at a particular space,
it is desirable to move this piece to the opponent's goal, and to
score without "blocking" and without "inhibiting" movement. Thus it
is seen that the other pieces objective is to cause the opponent's
Ballcarrier to travel to the goal line by-way-of extra spaces. This
can occur by "inhibiting movement" of the Ballcarrier to a
particular space, by utilizing "non-blocking" and "blocking"
pieces. Thus, making the Ballcarrier travel an obscure route to the
goal line. For example as seen in FIG. 5, the Ballcarrier R must
travel an excess space in order to reach his goal, as seen by the
Ballcarrier B that is inhibiting vertical movement. All the pieces
of the opposing team can inhibit movement of the opposing team's
Ballcarrier, since this piece cannot "block".
[0070] As defined above, the pieces have strength levels, which
allow them to move onto a space, even if occupied by the opposing
player. For this to happen, some of the pieces are able to "block".
If an opposing player is located on the desired space, and is
blockable, then the moving "blockable" piece can remove the
opposing player to an adjacent space. Thus, this provides for a
game wherein all pieces remain on the board throughout the play of
the game. This also provides for the playing pieces that cannot go
over or through the opposing playing pieces.
Blocking and Inhibiting Movement
[0071] Some of the pieces are designed for "blocking" various
opponents' playing pieces. "Blocking", is defined as the ability to
move the opponent's piece to an adjacent space.
[0072] There exist difference forms of "blocking" and only specific
pieces can "block" specific playing pieces. Ballcarriers cannot
"block" nor can they be "blocked". Any player, except the
Ballcarrier can "block" the Guards. The Flankers can "block" the
opposing team's Flankers and Guards. The Fullbacks can block
opposing teams Fullback, Flankers, and Guards.
[0073] "Blocking" of an opponent's piece can be slanted, straight,
or angled. As seen in FIG. 4a, an example of slanted "block" is
shown. A slant "block" occurs at a slant and is a linear movement.
Slant "blocks" are all linear and "non-vertical" movement. As
illustrated, the "blockable" piece 22, such as a Guard is in the
pathway of a piece that can "block", such as a Fullback 24. Hence,
as seen in this FIG. 4a, the piece 24 now can move onto the space
occupied by a piece 22 that can be blocked. Thus, this results in
the removal of this blocked piece, and the relocation of it to the
adjacent linear hexagonal space, as seen, in FIG. 4A. Therefore,
this piece would be relocated onto space 26. This will provide for
the movement of the "blocked piece and the relocation of the pieces
to be in a linear slanted movement.
[0074] An example of a straight "block" is shown in FIG. 4b. As
seen in this figure, any straight "block" occurs at a line parallel
to an imaginary line that exists from goal to goal. Thus, the
straight "blocks" are all line and vertical movements. As shown,
the "blockable" piece 22, such as a Guard is in the pathway of a
piece, which can "block", such as a Fullback 24. Hence, as seen in
this FIG. 4b, the piece 24 that can "block" moves onto the space
occupied by a piece that can be "blocked" 22. This results in the
removal of this "blocked" piece, and the relocation of it to the
adjacent linear hexagonal space, as seen, this piece would now be
located on space 26. This provides for the piece to be placed in
the pathway of the "block", which would place the piece onto space
26. This will provide for the movement of the "block" and the
relocation of the pieces to be in a linear vertical movement.
[0075] Angle "blocks" are also allowed, but are only permitted when
the pieces are located adjacent to the goal line. Once the "block"
takes place, the "blocked" piece can be located on any adjacent
space. Thus, the pieces which are "block able" (i.e. Flankers and
Guards) must be located on the adjacent space of the goal line in
order for the angled "blocking" to occur. Examples of angle
"blocks" are shown in FIGS. 4c-4e. As seen in FIG. 4c, the piece
that can be "blocked" 22, is located adjacent to the goal. A
slanted "block" would provide for the piece to be located off the
board, and thus is not permitted. Thus, the piece that can "block"
24 lands on the space occupied by the piece that can be "blocked"
22. This results in the removal of the "blocked" piece 22 and
relocates it to an adjacent space 26. Thereby, it is seen that the
angled "blocks" include a turn, which provides for the "blocking"
to be non-linear.
[0076] As seen FIGS. 4d and 4e illustrate other examples of angle
"blocks", wherein other pieces are inhibiting relocation of the
"blocked" piece, and thus force the relocation to occur at other
adjacent spaces.
[0077] To "block", a piece that can "block" (i.e. Fullback and
Flanker) must move next to the piece that can be "blocked" (i.e.
Flanker or Guard) on one turn, and then "block" on the next turn. A
piece that can "block" may "block" immediately if a piece that can
be "blocked" moves next to it. A piece that has just been "blocked"
and that can "block" (i.e. Flankers) must wait a turn before
"blocking" a piece that can be "blocked", which has just "blocked"
it, although the first piece to "block" may "block" the same piece
further each turn.
[0078] "Inhibiting movement" is used to alter and change the
pathway of the opposing players by redirecting movement. For
example, as seen in FIG. 5, the Ballcarrier B is inhibiting
vertical movement of the Ballcarrier R. As seen, this Ballcarrier R
must travel an excess space in order to reach his goal. All the
pieces of the opposing team can "inhibit movement" of the opposing
team's Ballcarrier, since this piece cannot "block" nor can it be
"blocked". In turn, the Ballcarrier can "inhibit moves" of all the
opposing team's pieces, since this piece cannot "block" nor can it
be "blocked".
Rules
[0079] Thus, the preferred rules for simulating football plays
are:
[0080] 1. Game to be played by two players
[0081] 2. Choose hidden piece to see who wins "selection"
[0082] 3. The player that wins the selection can either:
[0083] a. place his players first any where on his side of the
board in order to simulate football plays
[0084] b. place his players second and move first (takes the first
turn)
[0085] 4. Each player moves one piece in turn
[0086] 5. The Ballcarrier must start in his own goal
[0087] 6. A goal can be scored if the ball carrier in the opposing
team is still in his goal
[0088] 7. Attempt to guard your own goal and at the same time cross
your opponents goal
[0089] 8. To block, a piece that can tackle must move next to the
piece on one turn, and tackle on the next turn
[0090] 9. A piece may block immediately if a piece moves next to
it
[0091] 10. A piece must wait a turn before blocking a piece, which
has just blocked it, although the first piece to block may block
the same piece further each turn
[0092] 11. Pieces cannot go over or through other pieces
[0093] 12. A piece can land on an occupied space, once landed, the
previous piece is removed and relocated on an adjacent space
[0094] 13. Start over each time a goal is crossed. The player who
scored is considered the winner of selection (see rule number 2
above)
[0095] 14. Play is for an agreed period of time or number of
goals
[0096] 15. Above rules may be modified by agreement in order to
make the game simple enough to be enjoyed and played by a wide
variety of individuals.
[0097] While the present invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to an embodiment thereof, it will be
understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form
and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope
of the present invention.
* * * * *