U.S. patent application number 10/730586 was filed with the patent office on 2004-06-24 for miniature toy gaming equipment.
Invention is credited to Mackey, Thomas J..
Application Number | 20040119234 10/730586 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32600794 |
Filed Date | 2004-06-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040119234 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mackey, Thomas J. |
June 24, 2004 |
Miniature toy gaming equipment
Abstract
A gaming system comprises a base for receiving a miniature
figurine having distinct characteristics. The base may include at
least one attachment member for interconnecting the base with an
adjacent base. The gaming system may include a tracking member on
each base for recording changing characteristics of the associated
figurine. The gaming system includes a movable counter that may be
integral with the game pieces and allows for easy measurement of
various ranges. Structural units and structural unit guides allow
for building a variety of structures used in the game.
Inventors: |
Mackey, Thomas J.;
(Gibsonia, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BLYNN L. SHIDELER
THE BLK LAW GROUP
3500 BROKKTREE ROAD
SUITE 200
WEXFORD
PA
15090
US
|
Family ID: |
32600794 |
Appl. No.: |
10/730586 |
Filed: |
December 8, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10730586 |
Dec 8, 2003 |
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10189354 |
Jul 3, 2002 |
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6659463 |
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10189354 |
Jul 3, 2002 |
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09479531 |
Jan 7, 2000 |
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60115162 |
Jan 8, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/276 ;
273/289; 273/290; 446/117; 446/125 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 2003/00829
20130101; A63H 33/04 20130101; A63F 3/00214 20130101; A63F 3/00075
20130101; A63F 3/00697 20130101; A63F 2011/0062 20130101; A63F
2250/1036 20130101; A63F 2003/00223 20130101; A63F 2011/0072
20130101; A63F 2003/00728 20130101; A63F 9/1288 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/276 ;
273/289; 273/290; 446/117; 446/125 |
International
Class: |
A63F 003/00; A63H
033/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of playing a miniature war game on a playing surface
with a plurality of game pieces, wherein selected game pieces are
representative of individual characters of the game, the method
comprising the steps of: simulating combat with mathematical combat
resolution incorporating at least one randomizing element; and
moving at least some of the game pieces representing the characters
on the playing surface, wherein each game piece representing a
character has multiple, independent visible indicia indicative of
distinct character attributes thereon.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the independent indicia is
selected from the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof and wherein the independent indicia represent
character attributes including at least combat characteristics and
physical characteristics of the character, wherein combat
characteristics are utilized in the mathematical combat resolution
for the character.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein the combat characteristics
represented on the independent indicia includes at least one of
attack values and range values for the character, and wherein the
indicia identifies both the value of the attribute and the
associated attribute.
4. The method of claim 3 wherein the physical characteristics
represented on the independent indicia includes at least one of
character type and movement values of the character.
5. The method of claim 4 wherein the randomizing element includes
at least one die.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the moving of the game pieces
includes the step of measuring the movement with a measurement
mechanism distinct from the playing surface.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein each game piece has a rotating
wheel integral with the game piece, wherein the wheel includes
indicia indicative of the character attributes.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein the wheel indicia is one of the
group including pictures, letters, numbers, instructions, symbols,
text, or combinations thereof.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein the wheel indicia includes
variable character attributes including combat characteristics,
whereby the wheel indicia is selectively viewable through an
aperture in a wheel body.
10. The method of claim 9 wherein the combat characteristics
displayed is in the form of one of "Rock", "Paper" or "Scissors",
and wherein the variable wheel attributes displays the available
movement remaining during movement of a game piece as another
variable character attribute.
11. A war game comprising: a plurality of game pieces, wherein
selected game pieces are representative of individual characters of
the war game and are movable on a playing surface, wherein each
game piece representing a character has multiple, independent
visible indicia indicative of distinct character attributes
thereon; and at least one randomizing element for mathematical
combat resolution of simulated combat between characters.
12. The war game of claim 11 wherein the independent indicia is
selected from the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof and the independent indicia represent
character attributes including at least combat characteristics
wherein combat characteristics are utilized in the mathematical
combat resolution for the character and are selected from the group
including attack values and range values for the character, and
physical characteristics of the character selected from the group
including character type and movement values of the character.
13. The war game of claim 11 wherein the randomizing elements
includes dice, wherein the dice and combat characteristics are
utilized in the mathematical combat resolution for the
character.
14. An adventure gaming game-piece which is representative of a
game character, the game-piece comprising: a miniature; multiple
character indicia on the game piece, wherein each character indicia
is indicative of character attributes of the character, at least
some of which are used for conflict resolution; a rotating element
selected from the group consisting of a wheel and a sphere; and
multiple rotating element indicia on the rotating element, wherein
at least one character indicia is associated with the rotating
element indicia.
15. The game-piece of claim 14 wherein the character attribute
indicated by the character indicia that is associated with the
rotating element indicia is a variable character attribute and is
select-ably viewed through a viewing aperture in the game-piece by
rotation of the rotating element.
16. The game-piece of claim 14 wherein the rotating element is a
wheel and the character indicia is selected from the group
consisting of text, letters, numbers and combinations thereof.
17. The game-piece of claim 16 wherein the wheel is a movement
measurement device with multiple indicia indicative of measured
distance associated with at least movement indicia which is one of
the character indicia on the base, whereby the available remaining
movement of the character is varied through reduction during
movement of the character as illustrated by the indicia on the
movement measurement device.
18. The game piece of claim 17 wherein the wheel has an axis of
rotation generally parallel to a playing surface, whereby the wheel
is generally perpendicular to a playing surface.
19. An adventure game comprising: at least one randomizing element
for game play; and a plurality of game-pieces with each game-piece
representative of a game character, wherein each game-piece
includes a figurine and each game piece has multiple character
indicia thereon, wherein each character indicia is indicative of
character attributes of the character, each game-piece further
including a rotating element selected from the group consisting of
a wheel and a sphere, the rotating element having multiple rotating
element indicia thereon, wherein at least one character indicia is
associated with the rotating element indicia.
20. The adventure game of claim 19 wherein the at least one
randomizing element is a die, and the character indicia is selected
from the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof.
21. The adventure game of claim 19 wherein on each game-piece the
character attribute indicated by the character indicia that is
associated with the rotating element indicia is variable and is
select-ably viewed through a viewing aperture in the game-piece by
rotation of the rotating element.
22. The game of claim 19 wherein the rotating element is a
wheel.
23. The game of claim 22 wherein the wheel is a moveable counter
with multiple indicia indicative of measured distance associated
with at least movement indicia that is one of the character indicia
on the game piece, whereby the available remaining movement of the
character is varied through reduction during movement of the
character as illustrated by the indicia on the movement measurement
device.
24. The game of claim 23 wherein the wheel has an axis of rotation
generally parallel to a playing surface, whereby the wheel is
generally perpendicular to a playing surface.
25. An adventure gaming game-piece which is representative of a
game character, the game-piece comprising: a miniature; multiple
character indicia thereon, wherein each character indicia is
indicative of character attributes of the character; and a
selectively deployed elongated flexible distance measuring
element.
26. The game-piece of claim 25 further including a rotating wheel
with wheel indicia thereon, and the character indicia is selected
from the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof.
27. The game-piece of claim 25 further including an arc shaped
member with indicia thereon for assisting in direction and range
finding.
28. The game-piece of claim 25 wherein the flexible distance
measuring element is a retractable line with line indicia
thereon.
29. An adventure game comprising: a plurality of game-pieces, each
game-piece representative of a game character, each game-piece
including a miniature having multiple character indicia thereon,
wherein each character indicia is indicative of character
attributes of the character, and a selectively deployed elongated
flexible distance measuring element; and at least one randomizing
element.
30. The game of claim 29 wherein the randomizing element is at
least one die, and the character indicia is selected from the group
consisting of text, letters, numbers and combinations thereof.
31. The game of claim 30 wherein the figurine includes moveable
body members, and the character indicia is selected from the group
consisting of text, letters, numbers and combinations thereof.
32. The game of claim 29 further including an arc shaped member
with indicia thereon.
33. A method of playing an adventure game, comprising the steps of:
providing a plurality of game-pieces with each game-piece
representative of a game character, wherein each game-piece
includes a miniature and each game piece has multiple character
indicia thereon, wherein each character indicia is indicative of
character attributes of the character, each game-piece further
including a rotating element selected from the group consisting of
a wheel and a sphere, the rotating element having multiple rotating
element indicia thereon, wherein at least one character indicia is
associated with the rotating element indicia; and rotating the
rotating element of at least one game piece to vary the rotating
element indicia displayed; and selectively moving the game-pieces
about a playing surface.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein the rotating of the rotating
element is simultaneous with the moving of the game-pieces about
the playing surface, and the character indicia is selected from the
group consisting of text, letters, numbers and combinations
thereof.
35. The method of claim 33 wherein the adventure game is a war game
and further including the step of simulated combat between at least
some of the game-pieces, and wherein the character indicia is
selected from the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof.
36. The method of claim 35 further including utilizing randomizing
elements for combat dispute resolution.
37. An adventure game comprising: at least one randomizing element;
a plurality of game-pieces with each game-piece representative of a
game character, each game piece moveable over a playing surface;
and a measuring wheel adapted to measure distances on the playing
surface.
38. The game of claim 37 wherein the randomizing element is a die,
and wherein the measuring wheel displays indicia distinct from
measured distances.
39. An adventure game accessory system comprising: at least one
randomizing element; and a measuring wheel adapted to measure
distances on the playing surface.
40. The accessory system of claim 39 wherein the randomizing
element includes at least one die, and wherein the measuring wheel
displays indicia distinct from measured distances, and wherein the
wheel indicia is selected from the group consisting of text,
letters, numbers and combinations thereof.
41. An adventure game comprising: at least one randomizing element;
a plurality of game-pieces with each game-piece representative of a
game character, each game piece moveable over a playing surface;
and a measuring element integral with at least one game-piece and
adapted to measure distances on the playing surface, the measuring
element including a retractable line.
42. The game of claim 41 wherein the randomizing element includes
at least one die.
43. An adventure game comprising: game elements representing game
characters, each game element including a figurine on a base with
multiple indicia on the base, wherein the indicia is representative
of multiple character attributes; a movement measurement device
capable of measuring movement of the game-pieces in both linear and
non-linear paths; and at least one randomizing element.
44. The game of claim 43 wherein the randomizing element includes
at least one die, and wherein the multiple indicia is selected from
the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and combinations
thereof.
45. The game of claim 43 further including a plurality of
structural units adapted to build a variety of simulated
structures.
46. The game of claim 43 wherein the movement measurement device is
an elongated, flexible element, and wherein the multiple indicia is
selected from the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof.
47. An adventure game comprising: game elements representing game
characters, each game element including a figurine on a base with
multiple indicia on the base, wherein the indicia is representative
of multiple character attributes; further including a plurality of
structural units adapted to build a variety of simulated
structures; and at least one randomizing element.
48. The game of claim 47 wherein some of the structural units
include indicia thereon.
49. A method of playing a war game utilizing game elements
representing game characters, each game element including a
figurine on a base with multiple indicia on the base, wherein the
indicia is representative of multiple character attributes, a
movement measurement device capable of measuring movement of the
game-pieces in both linear and non-linear paths, and at least one
randomizing element, the method comprising the steps of: moving
some of the game elements based, in part upon, indicia on the base;
measuring movement of the game elements with the movement
measurement device, and engaging in mathematical combat resolution
utilizing at least one indicia on the base and the randomizing
element.
50. The method of claim 49 further including the step of building
at least one simulated structure, and wherein the multiple indicia
is selected from the group consisting of text, letters, numbers and
combinations thereof.
51. The method of claim 49 wherein the randomizing element includes
at least one die.
52. An adventure game comprising: a plurality of structural
building units for building simulated structures; a plurality of
game-pieces each representative of game characters; a movement
measurement device for measuring movement of the game-pieces; a
randomizing element for the game; and a template for assisting the
building of each simulated structure.
53. A competitive game comprising: a randomizing element; a
plurality of game pieces moveable on a playing surface, each said
game piece representative of a distinct player character, each said
game piece including a humanoid figurine on a base having at least
one rotating wheel, each said game piece having a plurality of
indicia thereon indicative of character attributes, wherein the
indicia are indicative of distinct player characters and character
abilities in attacking/defending and character abilities in
movement.
54. The game of claim 53 further including a plurality of
structural units which can selectively build a variety of simulated
structures, wherein the plurality of indicia is selected from the
group consisting of text, letters, numbers and combinations
thereof.
55. A gaming system comprising a plurality of miniature toy
figurine bases, each base supporting a miniature toy figurine
thereon and including a record tracking system on each base, each
record tracking system including a plurality of independent record
display members, wherein each record display member includes a
slide track spaced from the periphery of the base, a plurality of
indicia on the base along the slide track spaced from the periphery
of the base, and a slide member slide-able along the slide
track.
56. The gaming system of claim 55 wherein on each base at least one
of the record display members is configured to track physical
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
57. The gaming system of claim 56 wherein on each base at least one
of the record display members is configured to track equipment
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
58. The gaming system of claim 57 wherein on each base the physical
characteristics tracked by at least one of the record display
members tracks health of the figurine mounted thereon.
59. The gaming system of claim 57 wherein on each base the
equipment characteristics tracked by at least one of the record
display members tracks ammo of the figurine mounted thereon.
60. The gaming system of claim 55 wherein on each base at least one
of the record display members is configured to track equipment
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
61. The gaming system of claim 55 wherein the toy figurine on at
least one base is a humanoid figure.
62. The gaming system of claim 61 wherein the humanoid figure on at
least one base is holding a weapon.
63. The gaming system of claim 62 wherein the weapon held by the
humanoid figure on at least one base is an edged weapon.
64. The gaming system of claim 61 wherein the humanoid figure on at
least one base is mounted to an upper planar base cover that forms
an upper part of the base.
65. The gaming system of claim 64 wherein the upper cover is
attached to a planar lower part of the base through a plurality of
posts and holes.
66. The gaming system of claim 64 wherein the upper cover portion
of the base further includes a symbolic element on an upper surface
thereof separate from the humanoid figure and indicative of an
association the humanoid figure.
67. The gaming system of claim 64 wherein the slide members of each
record display member is on a lower planar part of each base.
68. The gaming system of claim 64 wherein at least one base further
includes a plurality of vertically stackable pedestals which may be
selectively interposed between a lower planar part of the base and
the associated miniature figurine to adjust the height of the
figurine above the lower part of the base.
69. The gaming system of claim 64 wherein each base includes a
planar lower sub-base and a pedestal above the planar lower
sub-base supporting the toy figurine.
70. The gaming system of claim 69 wherein the slide members of each
record display member is on a lower planar part of each base.
71. The gaming system of 70 wherein pedestal includes openings
through which the slide members on the lower planar part of each
base are viewable.
72. The gaming system of claim 54 wherein on each base the toy
figurine is mounted to an upper planar cover that forms an upper
part of the base.
73. The gaming system of claim 72 wherein the upper cover is
attached to a planar lower part of the base through a plurality of
posts and holes.
74. The gaming system of claim 72 wherein the upper sub-base
portion of the base further includes a symbolic element on an upper
surface thereof separate from the toy figurine and indicative of an
association the toy figurine.
75. The gaming system of claim 72 wherein on each base the slide
members of each record display member is on a lower planar part of
each base.
76. The gaming system of claim 55 wherein each base includes a
planar lower sub-base and a pedestal above the planar lower
sub-base supporting the toy figurine.
77. The gaming system of claim 76 wherein the slide members of each
record display member is on a lower planar part of each base.
78. The gaming system of 77 wherein pedestal includes openings
through which the slide members on the lower planar part of each
base are viewable.
79. The gaming system of claim 55 wherein the game includes
mathematical combat resolution.
80. The gaming system of claim 55 wherein each base includes at
least one attachment member for interconnecting the base with an
adjacent base.
81. A combat based gaming system comprising: a randomizing element
for mathematical combat resolution, and a plurality of miniature
toy figurine bases, each base supporting a miniature toy figurine
thereon and including a record tracking system on each base, each
record tracking system including a plurality of independent record
display members, wherein each record display member includes a
slide track, a plurality of indicia on the base along the slide
track, and a slide member slide-able along the slide track.
82. The gaming system of claim 80 wherein on each base at least one
of the record display members is configured to track physical
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
83. The gaming system of claim 80 wherein on each base at least one
of the record display members is configured to track equipment
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
84. The gaming system of claim 81 wherein on each base the physical
characteristics tracked by at least one of the record display
members tracks health of the figurine mounted thereon.
85. The gaming system of claim 81 wherein on each base the
equipment characteristics tracked by at least one of the record
display members tracks ammo of the figurine mounted thereon.
86. The gaming system of claim 81 wherein on each base at least one
of the record display members is configured to track equipment
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
87. The gaming system of claim 81 wherein the toy figurine on at
least one base is a humanoid figure.
88. The gaming system of claim 86 wherein the humanoid figure on at
least one base is holding a weapon.
89. The gaming system of claim 87 wherein the weapon held by the
humanoid figure on at least one base is an edged weapon.
90. The gaming system of claim 87 wherein the humanoid figure on at
least one base is mounted to an upper planar sub-base that forms an
upper part of the base.
91. The gaming system of claim 90 wherein the upper sub-base is
attached to a planar lower part of the base through a plurality of
posts and holes.
92. The gaming system of claim 90 wherein the upper sub-base
portion of the base further includes a symbolic element on an upper
surface thereof separate from the humanoid figure and indicative of
an association the humanoid figure.
93. The gaming system of claim 90 wherein the slide members of each
record display member is on a lower planar part of each base.
94. The gaming system of claim 89 wherein at least one base further
includes a plurality of vertically stackable pedestals which may be
selectively interposed between a lower planar part of the base and
the associated miniature figurine to adjust the height of the
figurine above the lower part of the base.
95. The gaming system of claim 89 wherein each base includes a
planar lower sub-base and a pedestal above the planar lower
sub-base supporting the toy figurine.
96. The gaming system of claim 85 wherein the slide members of each
record display member is on a lower planar part of each base.
97. The gaming system of 86 wherein pedestal includes openings
through which the slide members on the lower planar part of each
base are viewable.
98. The gaming system of claim 81 wherein on each base the toy
figurine is mounted to an upper planar sub-base that forms an upper
part of the base.
99. The gaming system of claim 98 wherein the upper sub-base is
attached to a planar lower part of the base through a plurality of
posts and holes.
100. The gaming system of claim 99 wherein the upper sub-base
portion of the base further includes a symbolic element on an upper
surface thereof separate from the toy figurine and indicative of an
association the toy figurine.
101. The gaming system of claim 100 wherein on each base the slide
members of each record display member is on a lower planar part of
each base.
102. The gaming system of claim 81 wherein each base includes a
planar lower sub-base and a pedestal above the planar lower
sub-base supporting the toy figurine.
103. The gaming system of claim 102 wherein the slide members of
each record display member is on a lower planar part of each
base.
104. The gaming system of 103 wherein pedestal includes openings
through which the slide members on the lower planar part of each
base are viewable.
105. The gaming system of claim 81 wherein each base includes at
least one attachment member for interconnecting the base with an
adjacent base.
106. A combat based gaming system using mathematical combat
resolution, the system comprising a plurality of miniature toy
figurine bases, each base supporting a miniature toy figurine
thereon and including a record tracking system on each base, each
record tracking system including a plurality of independent record
display members, wherein on each base at least one of the record
display members is configured to track physical characteristics of
the figurine mounted thereon, wherein each record display member
includes a slide track, a plurality of indicia on the base along
the slide track spaced from the periphery of the base, and a slide
member slide-able along the slide track.
107. The gaming system of claim 106 wherein on each base at least
one of the record display members is configured to track equipment
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
108. The gaming system of claim 107 wherein on each base the
physical characteristics tracked by at least one of the record
display members tracks health of the figurine mounted thereon.
109. The gaming system of claim 107 wherein on each base the
equipment characteristics tracked by at least one of the record
display members tracks ammo of the figurine mounted thereon.
110. The gaming system of claim 106 wherein on each base at least
one of the record display members is configured to track equipment
characteristics of the figurine mounted thereon.
111. The gaming system of claim 106 wherein the toy figurine on at
least one base is a humanoid figure.
112. The gaming system of claim 111 wherein the humanoid figure on
at least one base is holding a weapon.
113. The gaming system of claim 112 wherein the weapon held by the
humanoid figure on at least one base is an edged weapon.
114. The gaming system of claim 111 wherein the humanoid figure on
at least one base is mounted to an upper planar sub-base that forms
an upper part of the base.
115. The gaming system of claim 114 wherein the upper sub-base is
attached to a planar lower part of the base through a plurality of
posts and holes.
116. The gaming system of claim 114 wherein the upper sub-base
portion of the base further includes a symbolic element on an upper
surface thereof separate from the humanoid figure and indicative of
an association the humanoid figure.
117. The gaming system of claim 114 wherein the slide members of
each record display member is on a lower planar part of each
base.
118. The gaming system of claim 117 wherein at least one base
further includes a plurality of vertically stackable pedestals
which may be selectively interposed between a lower planar part of
the base and the associated miniature figurine to adjust the height
of the figurine above the lower part of the base.
119. The gaming system of claim 118 wherein each base includes a
planar lower sub-base and a pedestal above the planar lower
sub-base supporting the toy figurine.
120. The gaming system of claim 119 wherein the slide members of
each record display member is on a lower planar part of each
base.
121. The gaming system of 120 wherein pedestal includes openings
through which the slide members on the lower planar part of each
base are viewable.
122. The gaming system of claim 106 wherein on each base the toy
figurine is mounted to an upper planar sub-base that forms an upper
part of the base.
123. The gaming system of claim 122 wherein the upper sub-base is
attached to a planar lower part of the base through a plurality of
posts and holes.
124. The gaming system of claim 122 wherein the upper sub-base
portion of the base further includes a symbolic element on an upper
surface thereof separate from the toy figurine and indicative of an
association the toy figurine.
125. The gaming system of claim 122 wherein on each base the slide
members of each record display member is on a lower planar part of
each base.
126. The gaming system of claim 106 wherein each base includes a
planar lower sub-base and a pedestal above the planar lower
sub-base supporting the toy figurine.
127. The gaming system of claim 126 wherein the slide members of
each record display member is on a lower planar part of each
base.
128. The gaming system of 127 wherein pedestal includes openings
through which the slide members on the lower planar part of each
base are viewable.
129. The gaming system of claim 106 wherein the game includes
mathematical combat resolution.
130. The gaming system of claim 129 wherein each base includes at
least one attachment member for interconnecting the base with an
adjacent base.
131. A miniature toy figurine assembly for a combat based game
comprising: a miniature toy figurine structure associated with a
combat based game, a plurality of elevating, stacking pedestals for
selectively raising the height of the figurine structure in
standard increments, and a planer base having a mechanical record
tracking system.
132. A method of playing a combat based gaming system using
mathematical combat resolution, the method comprising the steps of:
providing a plurality of bases, each base configured for receiving
and supporting a miniature figurine thereon, wherein each base
includes at least one attachment member for interconnecting the
base with an adjacent base; interconnecting at least one set of a
plurality of the bases, positioning at least one miniature on the
set of interconnected miniature bases; and moving the
interconnected bases together with the at least one miniature
positioned thereon as a unit over a playing surface.
133. A method of playing a miniature war game on a playing surface
with a plurality of game pieces, wherein selected game pieces are
representative of individual characters of the game, the method
comprising the steps of: simulating combat with mathematical combat
resolution incorporating at least one randomizing element; moving
at least some of the game pieces representing the characters on the
playing surface, wherein each game piece representing a character
has multiple, independent visible indicia indicative of distinct
character attributes thereon; measuring range values of the game
pieces with a movement measuring device distinct from the playing
surface; and positioning simulated structures on the playing
surface.
134. The method of claim 133 wherein the independent indicia
represent character attributes including at least combat
characteristics and physical characteristics of the character,
wherein combat characteristics are utilized in the mathematical
combat resolution for the character.
135. The method of claim 134 wherein the combat characteristics
represented on the independent indicia includes at least one of
attack values and range values for the character, and wherein the
indicia identifies both the value of the attribute and the
associated attribute.
136. The method of claim 135 wherein the physical characteristics
represented on the independent indicia includes at least one of
character type and movement values of the character.
137. The method of claim 136 wherein the randomizing element
includes at least one die, and at least one simulated structure is
a simulated castle.
138. The method of claim 137 wherein each game piece has a rotating
wheel integral with the game piece, wherein the wheel includes
indicia indicative of the character attributes.
139. The method of claim 138 wherein the wheel indicia is one of
the group including pictures, letters, numbers, instructions,
symbols, text, or combinations thereof.
140. The method of claim 139 wherein the wheel indicia includes
variable character attributes including combat characteristics,
whereby the wheel indicia is selectively viewable through an
aperture in a wheel body.
141. A war game comprising: a plurality of game pieces, wherein
selected game pieces are representative of individual characters of
the war game and are movable on a playing surface, wherein each
game piece representing a character has multiple, independent
visible indicia indicative of distinct character attributes
thereon; a plurality of structural units forming a variety of
simulated structures on the playing surface; and at least one
randomizing element for mathematical combat resolution of simulated
combat between characters.
142. The war game of claim 141 wherein the independent indicia
represent character attributes including at least combat
characteristics wherein combat characteristics are utilized in the
mathematical combat resolution for the character and are selected
from the group including attack values and range values for the
character, and physical characteristics of the character selected
from the group including character type and movement values of the
character.
143. The war game of claim 141 wherein the randomizing elements
includes dice, wherein the dice and combat characteristics are
utilized in the mathematical combat resolution for the character,
and wherein the simulated structure includes a simulated
castle.
144. An adventure gaming game-piece which is representative of a
game character, the game-piece comprising: a miniature; multiple
character indicia on the game piece, wherein each character indicia
is indicative of character attributes of the character, at least
some of which are used for conflict resolution; a base separable
from the miniature selectively receiving the miniature thereon.
145. An adventure game comprising: A plurality of structural units
forming a variety of simulated structures positioned on the playing
surface; and a plurality of game-pieces with each game-piece
representative of a game character, wherein each game-piece
includes a miniature and each game piece has multiple character
indicia thereon, wherein each character indicia is indicative of
character attributes of the character, each game-piece further
including a rotating element selected from the group consisting of
a wheel and a sphere, the rotating element having multiple rotating
element indicia thereon, wherein at least one character indicia is
associated with the rotating element indicia.
146. The adventure game of claim 145 further including at least one
randomizing element, wherein the at least one randomizing element
is a die.
147. The adventure game of claim 146 wherein on each game-piece the
character attribute indicated by the character indicia that is
associated with the rotating element indicia is variable and is
select-ably viewed through a viewing aperture in the game-piece by
rotation of the rotating element.
148. The game of claim 145 wherein the rotating element is a
wheel.
149. The game of claim 148 wherein the wheel is a moveable counter
with multiple indicia indicative of measured distance associated
with at least movement indicia that is one of the character indicia
on the game piece, whereby the available remaining movement of the
character is varied through reduction during movement of the
character as illustrated by the indicia on the movement measurement
device.
150. The game of claim 149 wherein the wheel has an axis of
rotation generally parallel to a playing surface, whereby the wheel
is generally perpendicular to a playing surface.
151. An adventure gaming game-piece which is representative of a
game character, the game-piece comprising: a miniature; multiple
character indicia thereon, wherein each character indicia is
indicative of character attributes of the character; a base
separable from the miniature selectively receiving the miniature
thereon; and a selectively deployed elongated flexible distance
measuring element.
152. The game-piece of claim 151 further including a rotating wheel
with wheel indicia thereon.
153. The game-piece of claim 151 further including an arc shaped
member with indicia thereon for assisting in direction and range
finding.
154. The game-piece of claim 151 wherein the flexible distance
measuring element is a retractable line with line indicia
thereon.
155. An adventure game comprising: a plurality of game-pieces, each
game-piece representative of a game character, each game-piece
including a miniature having multiple character indicia thereon,
wherein each character indicia is indicative of character
attributes of the character, and a selectively deployed elongated
flexible distance measuring element; a plurality of structural
units forming a plurality of simulated structures placed on the
playing surface; and at least one randomizing element.
156. The game of claim 155 wherein the randomizing element is at
least one die.
157. The game of claim 156 wherein the figurine includes moveable
body members.
158. The game of claim 156 further including an arc shaped member
with indicia thereon.
159. A method of playing an adventure game, comprising the steps
of: providing a plurality of game-pieces with each game-piece
representative of a game character, wherein each game-piece
includes a miniature and each game piece has multiple character
indicia thereon, wherein each character indicia is indicative of
character attributes of the character, each game-piece further
including a rotating element selected from the group consisting of
a wheel and a sphere, the rotating element having multiple rotating
element indicia thereon, wherein at least one character indicia is
associated with the rotating element indicia; providing a plurality
of structural units for forming a variety of simulated structures;
building and placing selected simulated structures on the playing
surface; rotating the rotating element of at least one game piece
to vary the rotating element indicia displayed; and selectively
moving the game-pieces about a playing surface.
160. The method of claim 159 wherein the rotating of the rotating
element is simultaneous with the moving of the game-pieces about
the playing surface.
161. The method of claim 159 wherein the adventure game is a war
game and further including the step of simulated combat between at
least some of the game-pieces.
162. The method of claim 161 further including utilizing
randomizing elements for combat dispute resolution.
163. An adventure game comprising: at least one randomizing
element; a plurality of game-pieces with each game-piece
representative of a game character, each game piece moveable over a
playing surface; a plurality of structural units for forming a
variety of simulated structures; and a measuring wheel adapted to
measure distances on the playing surface.
164. The game of claim 163 wherein the randomizing element is a
die, and wherein the measuring wheel displays indicia distinct from
measured distances.
165. An adventure game accessory system comprising: at least one
randomizing element; a plurality of structural units for forming a
variety of simulated structures; and a measuring wheel adapted to
measure distances on the playing surface.
166. The accessory system of claim 165 wherein the randomizing
element includes at least one die, and wherein the measuring wheel
displays indicia distinct from measured distances.
167. An adventure game comprising: at least one randomizing
element; a plurality of structural units for forming a variety of
simulated structures; a plurality of game-pieces with each
game-piece representative of a game character, each game piece
moveable over a playing surface; and a measuring element integral
with at least one game-piece and adapted to measure distances on
the playing surface, the measuring element including a retractable
line.
168. The game of claim 167 wherein the randomizing element includes
at least one die and further including templates for building the
simulated structures.
169. An adventure game comprising: game elements representing game
characters, each game element including a figurine on a base with
multiple indicia on the base, wherein the indicia is representative
of multiple character attributes; a movement measurement device
capable of measuring movement of the game-pieces in both linear and
non-linear paths; a plurality of structural units for forming a
variety of simulated structures; and at least one randomizing
element.
170. The game of claim 169 wherein the randomizing element includes
at least one die.
171. The game of claim 169 wherein the movement measurement device
is an elongated, flexible element.
172. An adventure game comprising: game elements representing game
characters, each game element including a figurine on a base with
multiple indicia on the base, wherein the indicia is representative
of multiple character attributes; further including a plurality of
structural units adapted to build a variety of simulated
structures; a plurality of templates to build the simulated
structures with the structural units; and at least one randomizing
element.
173. The game of claim 172 wherein some of the structural units
include indicia thereon.
174. A method of playing a war game utilizing game elements
representing game characters, each game element including a
figurine on a base with multiple indicia on the base, wherein the
indicia is representative of multiple character attributes, a
movement measurement device capable of measuring movement of the
game-pieces in both linear and non-linear paths, and at least one
randomizing element, the method comprising the steps of: moving
some of the game elements based, in part upon, indicia on the base;
measuring movement of the game elements with the movement
measurement device distinct from the playing surface, and engaging
in mathematical combat resolution utilizing at least one indicia on
the base and the randomizing element.
175. The method of claim 174 further including the step of building
at least one simulated structure.
176. The method of claim 174 wherein the randomizing element
includes at least one die.
177. An adventure game comprising: a plurality of structural
building units for building simulated structures; a plurality of
game-pieces each representative of game characters, each game-piece
including a figurine; a randomizing element for the game; and a
template for assisting the building of each simulated structure
that forms part of the completed structure.
178. A competitive game comprising: a randomizing element; a
plurality of structural units for forming a variety of simulated
structures; a plurality of game pieces moveable on a playing
surface, each said game piece representative of a distinct player
character, each said game piece including a humanoid figurine on a
base having at least one rotating wheel, each said game piece
having a plurality of indicia thereon indicative of character
attributes, wherein the indicia are indicative of distinct player
characters and character abilities in attacking/defending and
character abilities in movement.
179. The game of claim 178 further including a plurality of
templates for positioning the structural units which can
selectively build the variety of simulated structures.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/189,354 entitled "Castle Blocks Board Game"
filed Jul. 3, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,659,463 entitled
"Interconnecting Miniature Toy Figurine Bases", which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/479,531
filed Jan. 7, 2000 entitled "Castle Blocks Board Game" which claims
the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Serial No.
60/115,162, filed Jan. 8, 1999, entitled "Castle Blocks Board
Game". These applications are incorporated herein by reference in
the entirety and are referred to below as the '354 application, the
'531 application and the '162 application, respectively.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to games and, more
particularly, to miniature toy gaming.
[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] Board games challenge the mind and teach players various
skills and concepts, such as formulating strategies, sharing,
socializing, competing, winning, and losing. Board games represent
a class of activities that encourage cognitive mental development
by challenging player's minds, as opposed to their bodies.
[0006] A common drawback of most board games, however, is that the
format of the game is so structured that a player's imagination is
constrained. For example, many commercially produced board games
must be played on pre-printed boards, with game pieces traveling on
a never-changing pathway. Many board games also incorporate
instruction cards that order a player to move their game piece,
lose a turn, or execute some other command. As these games are
played repeatedly, the game becomes more predictable, less
challenging, and less appealing to play. Another disadvantage of
many commercial board games is that the method of play is so random
that original, independent thought does not help the player achieve
the explicit goal of the game. Moreover, these games are
essentially two-dimensional, with no requirement to estimate
distances, evaluate how objects are constructed, or recognize
objects.
[0007] In addition to the board games described above, miniature
war gaming has developed a significant following. In miniature war
gaming, participants use a collection of toy miniatures to play a
given scenario. The miniatures may be, for example, historical
representations (e.g. Napoleonic era soldiers), fantasy figures
(e.g. elves, wizards, dragons, etc.) or science fiction characters.
The game play of these often elaborate representations is hindered
through piece movement limitations and inability to recognize
objects and attributes.
[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
improve the game play of miniature toy gaming and to provide
equipment that allows for interactive, educational games that
encourages input from the players and allows the players to make
their own decisions, choose their own strategies, and directly
affect the outcome of the game.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Obviating the drawbacks of the prior art, the present
invention is directed toward a gaming system comprising a base for
receiving a miniature figurine having distinct characteristics. The
base may include at least one attachment member for interconnecting
the base with an adjacent base. The gaming system may include a
tracking member on each base for recording changing characteristics
of the associated figurine.
[0010] The present invention further provides a method of playing a
game comprising the steps of: (a) building a structure using
structural units and may have at least one structural unit guide;
(b) assembling game pieces in proximity to the structure; (c)
determining range values for each game piece using a movement
measurement device; (d) moving each game piece within a permissible
movement range value; (e) engaging in mathematical combat with game
pieces controlled by an opposing side; and (f) removing captured
game pieces from play.
[0011] The present invention further provides a movement
measurement device for a game having distinct game pieces
constructed to measure range values of said games pieces and may
include an attaching member for connecting to the game pieces. The
movement measurement device may be a housing with a measuring wheel
having body indicia positioned thereon. The structural unit guides
for building a structure according to the present invention are
positioned adjacent said structural unit guides. The structural
unit guide for building a structure are combined with other
structural unit guides to aid in building a complete structure with
each guide preferably received in grooves formed in the structural
members. The grooved structural members help hide the guides and
interlock the structural members.
[0012] These and other advantages of the present invention will be
clarified in the Brief Description of the Preferred Embodiments
taken together with the attached drawings in which like reference
numerals represent like elements throughout.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a top schematic view of a game piece representing
a character of the game according to the present invention being
moved to various positions via linear and non-linear paths;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a top schematic view showing the range of a game
piece according to the present invention which is capable of
launching imaginary projectiles and game pieces within the
range;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a top schematic view showing a game piece of one
group in a game according to the present invention (e.g.
representing a Bloktroop character) in physical contact for
simulated combat with a game piece of another group (e.g.
representing a Badblok character);
[0016] FIG. 4 is a top schematic view showing a game piece
representing an independent war apparatus (e.g. Blokapult the
Catapult) within range of a structural unit;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a game piece in the form of
a base and toy miniature according to the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 6a is a plan view of a game piece miniature base
according to the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 6b is a perspective view of a height adjustment system
for the game piece having a base as shown in FIG. 6a according to
the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an assembly of game piece
bases according to the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of a movable counter,
such as a movement measurement device, according to one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the movable counter
shown in FIG. 8;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a moveable counter and
integral game piece according to the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a moveable counter and
integral game piece in the form of a figurine according to the
present invention;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a top view of a movable counter according to
another embodiment of the present invention having a rotating
sphere and support shafts;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a side view of a movable counter according to
another embodiment of the present invention with two rotating
spheres;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a side view of a movable counter according to
another embodiment of the present invention with two geared
wheels;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a plan view of an assembly of bases such as shown
in FIG. 7 with an associated moveable counter, which may be a
movement measuring device, according to the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 16a is a side view of another embodiment of a movable
counter according to the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 16b is a top view of the moveable counter shown in FIG.
16a;
[0031] FIG. 17a is a side view of another embodiment of a movable
counter according to the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 17b is a top view of the moveable counter shown in FIG.
17a;
[0033] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one possible castle
structure constructed using structural units and structural unit
guides according to the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of one possible tower
structure constructed using structural units and structural unit
guides according to the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of one possible castle
structure constructed using structural units and structural unit
guides according to the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the partially assembled
castle structure of FIG. 20 constructed using structural units and
structural unit guides according to the present invention with a
perspective view of an interlocking structural unit according to
the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 22 is a top view of a structural unit guide according
to the present invention that is partially filled or completed with
associated structural units; and
[0038] FIG. 23 is a top view of a structural unit guide according
to the present invention of the type shown in FIG. 21.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0039] FIG. 1 is a top schematic view of a game piece 10
representing a specific character, "Queen Buildablok", of the game
according to the present invention. The storyline of the game of
the invention is disclosed in detail in the '162 application which
is incorporated herein by reference. The game pieces 10 may be
comprised of common geometric shapes and may also form structural
units 16 (e.g. building blocks) as will be described hereinafter.
The game piece 10 can also have decorative indicia, such as a
picture of the character, or other visual pictures or symbols
attached thereto for aesthetic purposes. Game piece indicia 12 is
attached to each game piece 10 indicating the maximum attack value,
the maximum movement value, the maximum attack range, if applicable
and the classification (i.e. character or object name and/or group
affiliation) of each individual game piece 10. Additionally the
specific values include visible identifying indicia. For example,
game pieces 10 having the game piece indicia 12 of "AT 4/MV 3/RA
10" have a maximum attack value of four with "AT" identifying the
attack value, a maximum movement value of three with "MV"
identifying the move value, and a maximum attack range of ten with
"RA" identifying the range value. Game pieces 10 with an "A"
classification may be identical in appearance to other game pieces
10 with an "A" classification. The following value chart
illustrates the types of game pieces 10 as well as the
corresponding maximum attack, maximum movement, maximum range, and
classification values positioned on each respective game piece 10
according to a game of the present invention:
1 Character Game Characteristics (Attack/Move/Range (if
available)/Classification (if applicable) King Buildablok AT 10/MV
10 (C) Queen Buildablok AT 8/MV 8/RA 8 (C) Bloknight AT 5/MV 5 (A)
Blokarcher AT 4/MV 3/RA 10 (B) Dragon Blaze Crunchablok AT 10/MV
6/RA 6* (C) Blokgoblin AT 5/MV 5 (A) Boogablok AT 4/MV 3/RA 10 (B)
Blokapult the Catapult AT 7/MV 3/RA 18* *(attacks by breathing
imaginary fire)
[0040] Attacks structures formed by structural unit 16
[0041] Although geometrically shaped game pieces 10 have a
manufacturing advantage since the game pieces 10 and structural
units 16 can both be manufactured using the same mold or template,
thereby reducing manufacturing costs, other more sophisticated game
pieces 10 may also be used. For example, human figurines, physical
objects, animal figures, or any other two or three-dimensional
objects can be used in part or in whole for the game pieces 10. The
game pieces 10 can have movable body members on a figurine as well.
Representations of humans, physical objects, animal figures and the
like are collectively, interchangeably referred to as "figurines",
"miniatures", and "miniature figurines" in the art.
[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, each game piece 14 can be moved in any
direction, up to the maximum movement value indicated on the game
piece 10 through the indicia 12 indicating movement range. In FIG.
1, the maximum movement value for the game piece 10 representing
the character Queen Buildablok is eight (8) spaces with both the
character and the movement being represented on the game piece 10
by the indicia 12. The maximum possible movement is illustrated as
distance D in FIG. 1. Game pieces 10 cannot move through solid
objects such as other game pieces 14, or structural pieces formed
by structural units 16, such as those forming structures known as
Sir Archway's Tower and Buildablok Castle in the game, so game
pieces 10 must go around any obstructions. Intentional contact
between game pieces 10 is used for the purpose of engaging in
mathematical combat between the opposing contacting game pieces 10.
A game piece 10 can, however, move through holes in representative
structures, such as created by other aspects of the game (i.e. use
of a war apparatus such as the Blokapult the Catapult), or through
pre-existing holes, or through natural entranceways such as
bridges.
[0043] Mathematical or simulated combat may occur through
contacting game pieces 10 as shown in FIG. 3 in which a game piece
10, representing a Bloktroop character, is in physical contact for
simulated combat with a game piece 10, representing a Badblok
character. Alternatively, when an opposing game piece 10 is within
the range R of a game piece 10 capable of launching imaginary
projectiles, the two game pieces 10 also engage in mathematical
combat as generally represented in FIG. 2. Further, simulated or
mathematical combat may be between an independent war apparatus
(e.g. Blokapult the Catapult game piece 10) and a structure formed
by structural units 16 as represented in FIG. 4. Other simulated or
mathematical combat possibilities are possible, such as multiple
characters opposing a single character, characters capturing a war
apparatus, and the like, as generally known in the war gaming art.
The mathematical combat resolution may be through the combined use
of a randomizing element, such as dice, together with the specific
characteristics of the engaged game pieces (e.g. the attack
values), the operation of one such example of combat resolution is
described in detail in the '162 application and, in general, is of
a type that is well known in the war gaming art. Another simplified
combat resolution technique according to the present invention is
to have classifications that beat other classifications (i.e. and
"A" classification beats a "B" classification which beats a "C"
classification which beats and "A" classification). The
classifications may be assigned to the characters via the indicia
12 on the game pieces 10 as described above, or may be assigned
through use of a moveable counter 20 which will be described below
in detail. Again the details of the above types of combat
resolution are described in the '162 application as well as the
'354 application and the '531 application which are incorporated
herein by reference. It is the indicia 12 on the game piece 10
which assists the game players in the present invention in most of
the combat resolution types described above.
[0044] The game piece 10 formed of a miniature character figurine
22 mounted on a sub-base, or base 24, through a base cover or
pedestal 26 of the base 24 is shown in FIG. 5. The structure of the
game piece 10 of FIG. 5 represents a significant improvement for
miniature game play. The base 24 is adapted to receive a figurine
22 such as illustrated in FIG. 5. The base 24 includes holes 28 for
receipt of corresponding posts 32 in the figurine base 30 of the
associated figurine 22 (without pedestal 26). Additionally the base
24 accommodates one or more height adjusting pedestals 26 as shown
in FIGS. 5 and 6b. The selectively stackable pedestals 26 will
allow for figurines 22 to be mounted at varying heights relative to
a play surface and, therefore, could be used for flying characters
such as dragons, planes, blimps, spacecraft, etc. One advantage of
the pedestals 26 over existing figurine bases 30 is that the
pedestals 26 may be added or removed to quickly accommodate
altitude changes. It is expected that in the game rules for any
particular game, the pedestals 26 would be associated with a
movement unit for the game piece 10 such that adding or removing a
pedestal 26 will "use up" a portion of the game pieces movement
value, that may be displayed on the game piece 10 through indicia
12 as noted above.
[0045] An additional attachment mechanism, other than holes 28, is
incorporated into the base 24. A raised edge 36 may be sized to
engage selected figurine bases 30 for given figurines 22. The base
24 is designed to fit figurines 22 from a variety of manufacturers
to make the base 24 more universal.
[0046] In addition to the height varying characteristics for a
figurine 22, the game piece 10 having a base 24 provides for a
record tracking system for the associated miniature figurine 22.
The base 24 include three slides 40 with associated indicia 42 that
allows the base 24 to track relevant, possibly variable,
characteristics of the associated game piece 10. For example, a
game piece 10 may have a limited amount of health, ammo, or other
changing parameters, which the base 10 can track. During game-play
the slides 40 can be adjusted and referred to as needed to assist
in game play. The uses of the slides 40 is limitless and based upon
the given play scenario and game playing rules. The object is to
allow the association of these characteristics represented by the
slide 40 of the miniature 22 to be associated with the game piece
10.
[0047] A further aspect of the base 24 is the provision of mating
structure 44 in the form of an alternating dovetail connection on
the edge to allow for the interconnection of adjacent bases 24 as
shown in FIGS. 7 and 15. This interconnection allows for
associations of game pieces 10, e.g. troop formations such as
skirmish lines, squads and the like, to be grouped as a unit. This
interconnection will greatly facilitate game-play by allowing the
grouped unit of game pieces 10, e.g. a squad of soldiers, to be
moved as a single unit. Additionally it is helpful that the mating
structure 44 be attachable and removable in a vertical movement of
the associated bases 24. Further the alternating dovetail design on
each edge of the mating structure 44 allows the bases 24 to be
reversible to attach at 1/2 base increments (i.e. staggered). In
addition to allowing for the formation of interconnected groups of
characters or miniatures 22, the bases 24 can be combined to
receive a larger figurine. For example, in certain figurine sets,
two bases 24 may be connected to accommodate a larger figurine such
as a horse riding character, or catapult or the like.
[0048] FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views of a movable counter 20,
such as a movement measurement device, according to one embodiment
of the present invention. The movable counter 20 is a distance
counter and includes a counter body 50 and a rotating counter wheel
52. The movable counter 20 may be a separate piece, with respect to
the game pieces 10, but may also be incorporated into each game
piece 10 as represented in FIGS. 10 and 11. The counter body 50 and
counter wheel 52 may be formed from wood or other suitable
materials. The body 50 is shown as a generally rectangular shaped
hollow box, with an open end and a window end positioned directly
opposite the open end. The rotating counter wheel 52 includes a
circumferential wheel face having wheel indicia 54 positioned
thereon. The wheel indicia 54 may includes pictures, letters,
numbers, instructions, or other symbols or text. The counter wheel
52 is positioned with the wheel indicia 54 visible through the
window end of the counter body 50 and the open end of the counter
body 50. One rotation of the counter wheel 52 may be set to be the
equivalent of one space. Other additions are contemplated, for
example visual or sound effects may be added to the movable counter
20 associated with movement of the counter wheel 52 during or at
the conclusion of movement, or any other combination
[0049] The moveable counter 20 may be used as a movement
measurement device, i.e. a distance measuring wheel, for the
players to count or measure moves of game pieces 10. The details of
player movement of game pieces 10 in the game according to the
invention is described in greater detain in the '162 application.
The movable counter 20 affords the players tremendous flexibility
because any distances associated with game play can be measured in
a generally linear direction, in a generally curved direction, or
in any combination of directions. Consequently a key feature of the
moveable counter 20, when used as a movement measurement device, it
easily allows for linear and non-linear measurements of the game
pieces 10 as represented in FIG. 1.
[0050] In another embodiment of the movable counter 20, the movable
counter 20 has a the counter wheel 52 with the wheel indicia 54 is
coupled to a ground engaging wheel 56, such as by a gear belt or
meshing gears as shown in FIG. 14. In operation, the ground
engaging wheel 56 contacts the table, ground, or other playing
surface, and due to the gearing ratio, the rate of turn of the
wheel indicia 54 positioned on the circumference of the counter
wheel 52 can be adequately controlled for measurement, rather than
counting complete revolutions of the counter wheel 52.
[0051] In another embodiment of the movable counter 20 as shown in
FIG. 12, the movable counter 20 may also replace the counter wheel
52 with a counter sphere 62 having evenly spaced sphere indicia 64
visible on an outer surface of the counter sphere 62. The counter
sphere 62 is housed within the body 50 which may be integral with a
game piece 10 as discussed above. The counter sphere 52 rides on
shafts, or ball bearings, with the shafts having rotating sleeves.
A removable bottom plate may be attached to the body 50 having an
opening so that the sphere 52 can contact the playing surface and
still be contained in the game piece 10 or body 50. The sphere
indicia 64 is visible to a player through an opening in the body 50
and may be formed with a clear window, preferably plastic, with a
center indicator. Each sphere indicia 64 passing through the
opening during operation may count as one space. In another
embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the movable counter 20 can also
include the counter sphere 62 driven by a ground engaging sphere
66.
[0052] Another embodiment of the moveable counter 20, also called a
movement measurement device, is shown in FIG. 15 attached to bases
24 according to the present invention. The moveable counter 20 has
the measuring counter wheel 52 with wheel indicia 54 in a similar
manner to the moveable counters 20 discussed above, wherein the
wheel indicia 54 may include movement indication on one side and
other game related information on the other side, such as combat
resolution information. As shown in FIG. 15, the moveable counter
20 includes mating structure 84 which allows for easy connection to
a single base 24 or a group of inter-connected bases 24. The
moveable counter 20 may include a cover partially covering the
counter wheel 52, also called a drum, with the cover providing a
further surface for mounting an associated figurine 22, or other
mounting. For example, the cover may provide an appropriate
position for a field general or king figurine 22 as well as battle
flags or other command structure associated with the overall game
scenario.
[0053] FIGS. 16a and 16b show a further modification of the
moveable counter 20, also called a movement measurement device,
which measures range values R in three dimensions. This
modification generally includes a base or counter body 50 further
having at least one retractable measurement line 70 positioned
adjacent an origin 72, base or body indicia 74, and a first
semi-circular member 76 positioned adjacent the counter body 50.
The counter body 50 rotates 360.degree. about a longitudinal axis
L, the first semi-circular member 76 has member indicia 78
positioned thereon, and the retractable measurement line 70 is
extendable and retractable with respect to the counter body 50, as
shown by the arrows. Each measurement line 70 may be retracted with
a corresponding hand crank attached to a retractor pulley or other
suitable mechanism.
[0054] In operation, one or more retractable measurement lines 70
having measurement line indicia 80 are pulled from the counter body
50 and aligned with the body indicia 74 and/or the member indicia
78. The direction and length of the retractable measurement line or
lines 70, measured from the origin 72 using the measurement line
indicia 80 indicates range R.
[0055] FIGS. 17a and 17b show a further modification of the
moveable counter 20, or movement measurement device, that can also
measures range value R in three dimensions. This modification
generally includes a counter body 50 having at least one
retractable measurement line 70 positioned adjacent an origin 72
and a first semi-circular member 76 positioned adjacent the counter
body 50. It further includes a second semi-circular member 90
positioned adjacent the first semi-circular member 76, wherein the
first and second semi-circular members 76 and 90 are movable with
respect to the counter body 50 and each other. The first
semi-circular member 76 has member indicia 78 positioned thereon
and the retractable measurement lines 70 are extendable and
retractable with respect to the counter body 50.
[0056] Each semi-circular member 76 and 90 are movably attached to
the counter body 50 by pins, with an arc of the first semi-circular
member 76 circumscribed by an arc of the second semi-circular
member 90. This configuration allows the first and second
semi-circular members 76 and 90 to move 180.degree. in first and
second directions with respect to the counter body 50, as indicated
by the arrows. The second semi-circular member 90 may have
protrusions 92 and member indicia 94. The second semi-circular
member 90 may also have snub-nosed movement pointers 96 positioned
thereon. The protrusions 92 help keep the two semi-circular members
76 and 90 together after being rotated about the pins.
[0057] In operation, the first and second semi-circular members 76
and 90 are pivoted about the counter body 50, or otherwise moved
with respect to one another. A retractable measurement line 70 is
pulled from the counter body 50 and aligned directly adjacent the
intersection of the first and second semi-circular members 76 and
90, optionally guided by a movement pointer 96. The direction and
length of the retractable measurement line 70, measured from the
origin 72 indicates the range value R.
[0058] The moveable counter 20 permits range value measurements on
the playing surface and in three dimensions, such as measuring
between a game piece 10 on a first level of a structure and a game
piece 10 positioned adjacent a higher level of the structure. The
moveable counter 20 can also be used for measuring between ground
level and flying objects in a game, such as blimps, airplanes, or
rockets. Moreover, although any of the moveable counters 20
discussed above may be separate pieces, any of these may also be
incorporated into one or more game pieces 10 as discussed above.
The combining of the moveable counter 20 directly with a game piece
10 having a figurine 22 may have particular advantage in games for
younger children who will not have to separately measure game piece
movement (e.g. the movement of the integrated game piece 10 and
moveable counter 20 will occur simultaneously with measurement of
the move through the integral moveable counter 20).
[0059] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one possible castle
structure constructed using structural units 16 and structural unit
guides 100 according to the present invention; FIG. 19 is a
perspective view of one possible tower structure constructed using
structural units 16 and structural unit guides 100 according to the
present invention; and FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another
possible castle structure constructed using structural units 16 and
structural unit guides 100 according to the present invention.
[0060] The structural units 16 may be made from wood or other
suitable materials can be used. Moreover, the structured units 16
can also have decorative indicia, such as brick facade or another
pattern, attached thereto for aesthetic purposes. The structural
units 16 each generally take the shape of a basic geometric objects
with rectangular sides, triangular sides, arcs, arches, wedged
shaped units, cubes, equilateral triangles, or trapezoids in plan
view, as generally known in the art of wooden toy building blocks.
Attached to each structural unit 16 of similar type is structural
unit indicia 98.
[0061] The game according to the present invention uses the
structural units 16 to build a variety of structures using the
structural unit guides 100. The storyline associated with the
specifics of the game and the rules of the play of the game are
discussed in detail in the '162 application which is incorporated.
The same structural units 16 are used to build each of the
structures shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The building of each structure
is an important portion of the game and each structure is
incorporated into the scenario played out. Partially tearing down
of the structures during play of each scenario is also part of the
game play. Again the details of the game play are set forth in the
'162 application incorporated herein by reference.
[0062] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the partially assembled
castle structure of FIG. 20 constructed using structural units 16
and structural unit guides 100 according to the present invention
with a perspective view of an interlocking structural unit 16
according to the present invention. The interlocking structural
unit 16 is a specialized grooved structural unit 16, also called an
interlocking block. The interlocking block includes a groove formed
in opposed sides of the block. The groove serves to receive the
template or structural unit guide 100 for the subsequent layer
therein, which will essentially hide or at least minimize the
appearance of the guide 100 in the finished structure. Further the
groove in the interlocking block will receive structural units 16
of adjacent layers therein to interlock the layers to provide a
more secure structure. The grooved interlocking block may take a
straight H or I beam shape, or include corners as shown in the
attached figures. Curved shapes for the interlocking blocks are
also possible. Further it is envisioned that an interlocking block
may have a pivot between two ends along a 45 degree bevel such that
the block can be pivoted to a straight or a degree corner
block.
[0063] FIG. 22 is a top view of a structural unit guide 100
according to the present invention that is partially filled or
completed with associated structural units 16. FIG. 23 is a top
view of a structural unit guide 100 according to the present
invention of the type shown in FIG. 21. The structural unit guides
100 of the present invention are generally flat sheets of cardboard
or other suitable material, with each structural unit guide 100
having structural unit guide indicia 102 on either side thereof.
The structural unit guide indicia 102 includes alphabetical
letters, dots, or shadow outlines of various structural units 16,
with the shadow outlines forming available spaces. The purpose of
the structural unit guides 100 and the structural unit guide
indicia 102 is to provide a visual blueprint to players, that when
used in conjunction with corresponding structural unit indicia 98
positioned on the structural units 16, aids in the construction of
the structures known as Sir Archway's Tower and Buildablok Castle
shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. Other structural unit indicia 98 or
structural unit guide indicia 102 may be used to accomplish this
purpose. Further, certain areas of the guide 100 can be printed
with indicia or background to help it blend into the finished
structure (e.g. a cobble stone printing).
[0064] As discussed above a structure, such as Sir Archway's Tower
has multiple layers, e.g. thirteen layers, of structural units 16,
with each layer stacked upon a portion of the preceding layers. To
aid in construction of the structure the structural unit guides 100
can be used. However, any freestanding or other structure may be
built with or without the use of structural unit guides 100. A
structural unit guide 100 corresponds to each level of a structure,
such as Sir Archway's Tower. The structural unit guide indicia 102
positioned on the structural unit guide 18 define the location of
specific types of structural units 16. For example, a structural
unit 16 having a structural unit indicia 98 "A" positioned adjacent
thereto is positioned over a corresponding available space 110 on
the structural unit guide 100 also having the structural unit guide
indicia 102 "A". In cases where the structural units 16 are
preferred to have a given orientation, a dot or other structural
unit indicia 98 is positioned on the structural unit 16 and a
corresponding dot or other structural unit guide indicia 102 is
positioned on the structural unit guide 100. The dots are then
positioned directly opposite each other during construction. This
process is repeated until the available spaces on the structural
unit guide 100 are filled, forming a given layer of structural
units 16. A structural unit guide 100 corresponding to the next
level of the structure is then placed over the previous layer of
structural units 16, and the process is repeated until the
structure is completed. While use of the structural unit guides 100
is suggested, the structural unit guides 100 can be supplanted by
the creativity and imagination of the players, and any other
structures can be built without using the structural unit
guides.
[0065] The basic, storyline, structure, game characters, and battle
resolution rules can be easily modified with the elements of the
present invention. The above described building block and miniature
toy gaming equipment can be utilized in a wide variety of games,
including the detailed game as described in the related
applications. A further example of the application of the equipment
of the present invention is a cave-man role playing game developed
by the inventor. The game utilizes at least one male and female
figurine 22 representing a single clan for each player. The object
of the game is for each player to have his clan collect the
appropriate material needed to produce fire and/or a wheel. Each
figurine 22 includes a moveable counter 20, also called a movement
measurement device, integral with the figurine 22. Additionally,
the counter wheel 52 has one side of the wheel with indicia
alternating between "rock", "paper", and "scissors". When two
opposing figurines 22 approach the same element (e.g. a part of a
wheel axle) in the same turn the players engage in a combat whose
outcome is based upon the display of the two paper--rock--scissors
on each figurines moveable counter 20 (for sake of completeness:
paper defeats rock, rock defeats scissors and scissors defeats
paper). The winner is awarded the element and the loser is frozen
until touched by a female figurine 22 of the clan. Further
specifics of the game are not relevant here. The game is not
limited to a pre-printed board layout but allows easy calculation
of the piece movement during game play. Further the rules combine
the well known concepts of freeze tag and paper-rock-scissors in
the game play. This is only one representation of the many games
possible with the equipment of the present invention. The template
(e.g. the guides 100) used in building the illustrated structures
can also be modified so that the players can build any desired
structure (e.g. templates can be designed to replicate the Eiffel
tower, The White House, etc). The templates can be utilized with
essentially any block building set such as those sold under the
trademark LEGO.RTM.. The easily connected and disconnected bases 24
are universal as described. Consequently the present invention is
believed to open up the area of game design and improve game play
in specific areas.
[0066] The invention has therefore been described with reference to
the preferred embodiments. Obvious modifications and alterations
will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding
detailed description. It is intended that the invention be
construed as including all such modifications and alterations
insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the
equivalents thereof.
* * * * *