U.S. patent application number 10/370879 was filed with the patent office on 2004-08-26 for interactive game with visual video interface.
Invention is credited to Robarge, Jerry.
Application Number | 20040166915 10/370879 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32868242 |
Filed Date | 2004-08-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040166915 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Robarge, Jerry |
August 26, 2004 |
Interactive game with visual video interface
Abstract
A game device and method in which participants receive a
question associated with an audio-visual clip and register a
response. A score is based on correctness of the response based, at
least in part, on information associated with the audio-visual
clip.
Inventors: |
Robarge, Jerry; (Kingsford,
MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DENISE M GLASSMEYER
YOUNG & BASILE, P.C.
3001 W. BIG BEAVER RD., SUITE 624
TROY
MI
48084-2813
US
|
Family ID: |
32868242 |
Appl. No.: |
10/370879 |
Filed: |
February 20, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/9 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 9/18 20130101; A63F
2003/00126 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/009 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
What is claimed:
1. A method for performing a game comprising the steps of:
receiving a question; registering an answer in response to the
received question; ascertaining correctness of the answer based on
review of an associated audio-visual clip; and awarding a score
based, at least partially, on whether the answer was correct, the
awarded score derived from information contained in the associated
audio-visual clip.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the received question is contained
in the associated audio-visual clip.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein the question includes proposed
multiple responses to the received question.
4. The method of claim 3 wherein at least two players record
responses to the received question.
5. The method of claim 2 wherein the received question and the
recorded answers are maintained in an electronically controllable
archive, the electronically controllable archive including a user
interface, a device for retaining a received answer and a device
for comparing the associated answer against a correct response.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the question contained in the
associated audio-visual clip is randomly presented to the players
based on a selection protocol derived by a randomizing device, the
randomizing device associated with the electronically controllable
archive.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein an associated response is a factor
in the selection protocol determining at least one subsequent
question presented.
8. A method for performing a game, the method comprising the steps
of: receiving at least one question, the question maintained in a
question media the question media being at least one of a real time
video segment, a recorded video segment, a recorded audio segment,
and a verbal text recording; registering at least one response to
the received question, the response registered in at least one of
visual media, video media, audio media, and print media;
ascertaining correlation between the registered answer and data
maintained in association with the question media; and recording a
score based, at least partially, on correctness of the registered
answer.
9. The method of claim 9 wherein at least two players record
responses to the received question.
10. The method of claim 9 wherein an associated response is a
factor included in a selection protocol determining at least one
subsequent question presented.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein the question is contained in the
associated audio-visual clip and is randomly presented to the
players based on a selection protocol derived by a randomizing
device associated with the question media.
12. The method of claim 9 wherein the received question and the
recorded answers are maintained in an electronically controllable
archive, the electronically controllable archive including a user
interface, and a device for retaining received answers and devices
for comparing received answers against a correct response.
13. The method of claim 9 wherein the at least two players
interactively communicate through an electronic communications
system located distant from at least one player.
14. The method of claim 13 wherein the players are remotely
positioned relative to an electronically controllable archive.
15. A device for playing a game comprising: means for receiving a
question; means for registering an answer to the received question;
means for ascertaining correctness of the registered answer based
on review of an associated audio-visual clip; and means for
awarding a score based, at least partially, on whether the answer
was correct, the awarded score derived from information contained
in the associated audio-visual clip.
16. The device of claim 15 wherein the means for receiving the
question includes an audio-visual playback device associated with a
randomly accessible audio-visual archive and question database.
17. The device of claim 16 wherein the answer registering means
includes a data input device in interactive communication with the
audio-visual playback device.
18. The device of claim 17 wherein the means for ascertaining
correctness of an answer includes a correlation analysis tool
comparing an inputted answer with data associated with the
audio-visual clip.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The present invention relates to interactive entertainment
and game systems and methods for using such systems with one or
more players.
[0002] Various games have been proposed for testing players'
knowledge of trivia, information, and the like. Heretofore, such
games have included a physical board component with various
physical methods for posing questions and retrieving information.
Questions and retrieved information can be stored on devices such
as papers, playing cards, and other physical media that can be
randomly shuffled or arranged. Answers and responses can be
recorded using print devices like game boards, printed sheets, and
the like. Game progress can be recorded using game boards and
moveable indicators. While such traditional games provide
significant entertainment value, there exists desire for games and
game devices that present information and opportunities for
competitive play in a format that is familiar and exciting to
individuals living in the digital-information age.
[0003] Accordingly, various games and game methods have been
proposed that result in the transfer of trivia and various pieces
of information to digital formats which can be accessed and read.
Certain games and game methods also permit recording of answers in
digital form.
[0004] Typically, these "computer games" provide specifically
prepared computer screens with preprogrammed modules which invite
or prompt user input through an appropriate interface such as a
computer keyboard or application specific game devices. Such
application-specific animation and graphic material, though
engaging, is perceived as being flat and canned. Heretofore, access
and interaction have been limited.
[0005] In the information age, significant amounts of information
and knowledge is stored and retained in an audio-visual format(s).
Audio-visual formats include, but are not limited to, information
stored as motion pictures, videos, sound recordings, and the like.
These materials may initially be recorded in analog or digital
formats or may be converted to more modern digital formats through
various copying or remastering processes. Such audio-visual works
generally present knowledge or information in a linear stream for
playback and review. Heretofore, few if any games, game methods, or
game devices have been proposed which provide for the testing and
retrieval of knowledge from audiovisual storage media. Furthermore,
few if any games, game methods, or entertainment devices have been
proposed which provide an interactive link with such audio-visual
based stored knowledge.
[0006] The general public and game players in particular are
increasingly familiar with common cultural knowledge that is
developed and based upon material contained in audio-visual media.
The need and desire for interactive games, game methods and devices
that will permit or facilitate the analysis, study, and enjoyment
of various aspects of our cultural heritage that are stored as
audio-visual information has yet to be met. Such audio-visual
collections can include, but are not limited to, historical
information, recorded audio-visual scientific and social scientific
information, and various aspects of the popular culture including,
but not limited to, television and motion picture drama, comedy,
and real action productions.
SUMMARY
[0007] Disclosed herein is a game device and method which includes
receiving a question associated with an audio-visual clip,
registering an answer in response to the received question, and
recording a score based, at least partially, on whether the answer
was correct. The recorded score is derived from material contained
in the audio-visual clip.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0008] The description herein makes reference to the accompanying
drawings wherein the reference numerals refer to like parts
throughout the several views, and wherein:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a process diagram of a method for performing a
game as disclosed herein;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a flow chart for a system for performing a game as
disclosed herein; and
[0011] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a printed game board which can be
employed in the method as disclosed herein.
DESCRIPTION
[0012] In the following description, certain specific details are
set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various
embodiments of the method and device disclosed herein. However, one
skilled in the art will understand that the method and game as
disclosed herein is intended to cover various embodiments and
equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the
claims appended hereto.
[0013] As broadly construed, the present invention is directed to a
method for performing a game in which a question associated with an
audio-visual clip is received by a player or players. A response to
the question is registered and a score based upon the registered
response is recorded. The score is based, at least partially, on
whether the answer is correct. The score can be derived from
information contained in or associated with the audio-visual
clip.
[0014] As used herein, the term "audio-visual clip" is defined as
linear sequential information having at least one of an audibly
discernable portion and a visually discernable portion. The
information may be stored in any suitable permanent or
semipermanent format. Nonlimiting examples include magnetic tape,
digital video files, compact discs, etc. The audio-visual clip may
be a self-contained sequence or a segment of a larger work.
Suitable subject matter contained on the audio-visual clip can
include, but is not limited to, interesting sequences derived from
popular dramas or comedies produced and disseminated on broadcast
television, cable television, and the like. It is also contemplated
that the audio-visual clips may be historic documentary footage,
news footage, or the like. The audio-visual clips in a particular
library may be specifically produced for the particular game. Thus,
the material may be animation or other recorded live-action
information pertaining to various academic subjects or disciplines
as desired or required.
[0015] Typically, the question associated with the audio-visual
clip will be one which can be answered by a portion of the
audio-visual clip presented immediately following the question. In
the game method as disclosed herein, it is contemplated that the
question can be presented during a pause in playback of the
audio-visual clip. The question can be presented as written visual
text, audible spoken text, or a combination of the two. The
question can be an open-ended question. However, more preferably,
the question is in the form of a question which can be answered by
one of several multiple-choice answers. Answers can be formulated
to enhance learning, develop an appropriate level of difficulty for
the game, or simply enhance entertainment value as desired or
required.
[0016] The responses from each player can be recorded or registered
in a suitable manner. The recordation of responses can be
accomplished by paper tokens or the like. However, it is
contemplated that responses can be digitally registered and
compared to an appropriate answer library which corresponds to the
audio-visual clip. The various responses can be assigned various
score levels which are based, at least partially, on whether the
answer registered and provided is correct. The score can also be
based, at least partially, on other factors such as cleverness of
the response, entertainment value of a response, or the like. In
the method as disclosed herein, it is contemplated that the score
for an answer can be derived from informational criteria which are
contained in or associated with the audio-visual clip.
[0017] It is contemplated that the data pertaining to recorded
answers in the game method and device disclosed herein can be
maintained in an electronically controllable archive. In the
embodiment disclosed, the electronically controllable archive is
accessible through a user interface and can include means for
retaining the received responses and means for comparing the
received response against a correct answer. The electronically
controllable archive can also include appropriate look-up tables or
decisional criteria for assigning scores to the response or
responses received. It is contemplated that the user interface can
be any suitable cueing mechanism which can initiate playback of the
audio-visual clip and associated questions. The interface may be a
suitable electronic device which can be associated with a
television, VCR, DVD player, or other audio-visual playback
devices. It is also contemplated that the interface can be an
appropriate digital link to remotely contained electronically
archives. Such links could include computers, infrared
data-receiving devices, web-based interfaces, and the like. In such
instances where the electronically controllable archive is
maintained remote from the player or players, it is contemplated
that associated audio-visual clips can be maintained in a suitable
remote location or can be maintained in a storage unit which is
capable of interactive communication and interaction with the
remote storage archive.
[0018] Where the questions and audio-visual clips are maintained in
a remote electronically controllable archive, it is contemplated
that the method can include means for interfacing or permitting
communication between multiple remotely positioned participants or
players. Thus, while players can be located in one central
location, the method further contemplates a form of play in which
the players are remotely positioned relative to one another and
interfaced through a central electronically controllable system. In
such instances, it is contemplated that the method will include
appropriate controls which will permit the interactive
communication of scores and responses between and among the various
players. Where desired or required, it is also contemplated that
the system will permit and facilitate ancillary player
communication from a player to all participants and/or between
individual players such as by instant messaging, email
communication, voice-link communication, or the like.
[0019] Referring now to FIG. 1, there is schematically depicted a
game sequence for a comedy show trivia game. At the outset, player
A and player B view a randomly selected audio-visual. After a
predetermined interval, the audio-visual playback is paused and a
printed question is displayed. The printed question can be one
which is relevant to the outcome of the audio-visual clip or is in
some way associated with trivia related to the comedy show. It is
contemplated, that the question can be presented in such a way that
there are multiple possible responses from which the players can
choose. The question and multiple responses can either be visually
presented, audibly presented, or presented in a combination of
audio and visual media. The audio-visual clip remains paused while
the players record their response to the presented question.
Recordation of responses can be by a suitable electronic interface
such as a touch pad or keyboard. Alternately, the responses can be
recorded on paper or using physical counters or recorders. After
the responses have been recorded, the audio clip playback
recommences from the initial cue. Playback continues through to a
point where the answer is illustrated. The correct responses can be
analyzed and recorded in any suitable manner. Examples of
recordation include progress along a game board or electronic
tabulation of results. Once the results have been tabulated, an
additional audio-visual clip can be randomly selected by any
suitable selection criteria to present either a follow-up question
or a new question to continue the progress of the game. The game
can conclude after a suitable predetermined end point is reached
such as the acquisition of a particular score, traversal of a game
board, or the like.
[0020] FIG. 1 outlines a basic flow diagram for the method 10 of
playing the game. In a basic sense, the game commences presentation
of an audio-visual clip as at reference numeral 12 with receipt of
a question as at reference numeral 14. The question is received by
one or multiple players participating in the game sequence. For
exemplary purposes, FIG. 1 represents game play by players A and B
as at reference numerals 16 and 18. The audio-visual clips and
associated questions received are randomly generated from a library
of audio-visual clips and associated questions contained in a
suitable data storage medium. In the game method as disclosed, it
is contemplated that a library of audio-visual clips and associated
questions are compiled around an appropriate subject or subjects.
Thus where the audio-visual clips are derived from a subject such
as a comedy or drama produced for broadcast television or the like,
it is contemplated that a given library will be built around a
particular television show, genre personality, or the like.
[0021] The play sequence occurs in a series of rounds in which at
least one audio-visual clip is presented in each round. In the
basic sequence of play, a portion of an audio-visual clip is
presented for the players. At an appropriate place in the
audio-visual playback sequence, the audio-visual clip is paused and
the relevant question is received. It is contemplated that each
question can be received in audio, visual, or permanent print
fashion. The question may be superimposed on the audio-visual clip
as visual or audio information which can be viewed by the players
16, 18 from a suitable view screen or audio receiver. It is also
contemplated that an individual question can be associated with a
given audio-visual clip in a one-to-one fashion. Alternately, a
plurality of questions may be associated with an appropriate
audio-visual clip. These questions can be sequentially presented
or, more preferably, can be integrated into the audio-visual
presentation by a second selection protocol which will be discussed
in greater detail with respect to FIG. 2.
[0022] In the game as disclosed herein, once the question has been
presented and received as at reference numeral 14, each player
registers a response as at reference numerals 20, 22. Response
registration can proceed by any suitable modality. For example,
suitable response can be input into a suitable electronic
controller for analysis based upon data associated with the
audio-visual clip as at reference numeral 24.
[0023] Analysis of responses can be a simple "yes-no" analysis of
whether an individual has recorded a response which is deemed
correct based on data associated with the audio-visual clip. It is
also contemplated that various responses in a multiple choice
scenario can be weighted or graded depending upon other evaluation
criteria. Thus, the response may receive a partial score based on
factors such as humor, previous responses, partial correctness, or
the like.
[0024] It is contemplated that the response analysis data will be
associated with the audio-visual clip viewed in some manner or
fashion. Thus, the data can be accessed based on information
regarding which audio-visual clip is being viewed. It is also
contemplated that the correct response data could be linearly
positioned as a command which follows the question display.
[0025] In the method as disclosed, it is contemplated that the
correct answer or answers will be visually displayed to enhance
entertainment and/or educational value.
[0026] Either concurrent with response analysis or subsequent to
such response analysis, the audio-visual clip can be reviewed by
the players 16, 18 as at reference numeral 26. Review of the
audio-visual clip can function to enhance entertainment value,
and/or reinforce learning potential depending upon the nature of
the material access from the data storage library. The audio-visual
clip as reviewed will present information which answers the
question previously posited and received. Thus, the players 16, 18
receive a positive indication of the accuracy of their registered
response. Typically the complete audio-visual will provide the
correct answer. An example of such scenarios is an audio-visual
clip from a comedy show. Players would view the audio-visual clip
to a point prior to the gag or laugh line, and then be asked to
correctly recall the laugh line. Once answers are recorded, a
second viewing of the audio-visual clip with laugh line provides
the answer sought.
[0027] Referring now to FIG. 2, there is depicted a process diagram
for performing the game method disclosed herein. To start the game
as at reference numeral 110, the appropriate players can be
assembled and the appropriate equipment positioned. The various
players can be proximate to one another as would be the case in
employing a game-board game. Alternately, the players can be remote
from one another and placed in contact with one another through an
appropriate web-based or electronic-based system.
[0028] As depicted in FIG. 2, the game begins with appropriate user
input as at reference numeral 112. This input any suitable
introductory activities. Examples of these include, but are not
limited to, logging on as in the case of an electronic or
electronic web-based systems, manually activating a trigger as may
occur in a board-based game or the like. As depicted in FIG. 2, the
game initiation or beginning prompts a display opening sequence at
reference numeral 114. The opening sequence can include
instructions, credits, entertaining vignettes, or the like. The
display opening can terminate with an appropriate prompt for user
input or can proceed immediately to a command to cue the first
audio-visual clip, as at reference numeral 116. The audio-visual
clip can be retrieved from a suitable audio-visual library
indicated at reference numeral 120. Selection of the audio-visual
clip can be mediated by a suitable randomizing program to provide
variety in the selection of the audio-visual clip. Randomization of
the selection is indicated at reference numeral 118.
[0029] The audio-visual library 120 can include audio-visual clips
as well as associated programming information relevant to the
various clips. This programming information can include embedded
questions that will be presented as part of the game. Alternately,
the audio-visual library can include appropriate means for linking
to an independent or free-standing question library that is
maintained in tandem with the audio-visual library as at reference
numeral 124. Where a free-standing or independent question library
is utilized, it is contemplated that the audio-visual clips and and
questions will have appropriated identifying and associative data
to permit associataion of suitable questions with various
audio-visual clips. It is contemplated that the audio-visual
library will have multiple audio-visual clips organized in any
suitable fashion. Thus, the audio-visual clips can be organized by
topic/subtopic, or can be organized hierarchically depending upon
predetermined levels of difficulty, entertainment value, or the
like. Access and selection within the given hierarchy can be
executed by any suitable selection protocol including
randomization, semi-randomization or the like.
[0030] The audio-visual clip can be displayed as at reference
numeral 117 on a suitable audio-visual display device. As indicated
previously, the audio-visual display device can be any suitable
playback means that can include, but is not limited to, a
videocassette recorder, digital recording and playback devices,
real time or streaming video reception and the like.
[0031] The audio-visual clip is taken from an appropriate or
relevant subject category such as a comedy series or the like. The
audio-visual clip is played to a point where a suitable question
can be presented. The audio-visual clip is then paused at reference
numeral 122. The pause can be a suitable stop action command or any
other command which will permit the interjection of a relevant
question for purposes of game play. The question can be maintained
in a suitable question library as at reference numeral 124. The
question library can be a separate database from the audio-visual
clips or, alternately, audio-visual clip and associated question
can be maintained as a single data packet. Where the audio-visual
clip and the associated question are previously associated or
linked, the question can be directly displayed on the paused
screen. Alternately, it is contemplated that multiple questions
could be posed in relation to a given audio-visual clip. These may
be posed at different times during the playback of the clip or,
alternately, may be cued at the single pause 122. If multiple
questions could be presented, it is contemplated that the process
will include appropriate programming and mechanisms for accessing
the library of questions that are associated with a particular
audio-visual clip, randomly selecting the question to be presented,
and presenting the question in a display fashion.
[0032] While the discussion has been presented in terms of
audio-visual clips, in the broadest sense, the game can utilize
display material which is visual, audio, audio-visual, or the like.
Furthermore, it is contemplated that the question(s) may be
displayed in a fashion overriding the paused audio-visual clip
display if desired or required. By overriding the paused video, it
is contemplated that the question may be presented as a printed
question presented on the on either a blank screen or a screen with
the paused image presented. It is also contemplated that the
question may be presented as a visual question, as an audible
question or as a combination of the two.
[0033] While the audio-visual playback display is in the pause
mode, the players can input answers as at reference numeral 132.
Answer input can be accomplished by any suitable mechanism or
means. It is contemplated that the questions will be presented as a
multiple choice option question. The selected answer will have an
associated letter that can be entered through a suitable input
device such as a keypad, touch sensor, or the like. Once the
answers are inputted, the process will include commands to access
the question library 124 to develop appropriate templates against
which the inputted answers can be compared.
[0034] The game method of the present invention also contemplates
the presentation of various multiple choice answer options. The
multiple choice answer options can be varied from presentation to
presentation to include various incorrect answers which will be can
be chosen based on programmed selection criteria which may include
humor value and the like. It is contemplated that the wrong answer
selections can be varied from presentation to increase humor and/or
entertainment value or to alter the difficulty of game play.
[0035] Accessing question library answers as at 134 can occur by
any suitable method or device. It is contemplated that the
potential and correct answers can be associated with the question
and maintained in a fashion invisible to the players during the
answer input period.
[0036] Once the players have inputted their chosen answers and the
library answers accessed, the comparison of the two can be executed
by any suitable comparison program or methodology as at reference
numeral 136. The correctness of the answer can be determined as at
decision junction 138. If an inputted answer is determined to be
correct, the score can be recorded as at reference numeral 140.
[0037] If a player provides an incorrect answer, the answer
assessment process can be configured to permit a second try at the
answer if the game entertainment value or educational value
warrants such, as at reference numeral 142. If a second try is
warranted, the process is directed back to the input answers
segment as at 132 and repeated.
[0038] After answers have been inputted, the entire audio-visual
clip in question can be displayed as at reference numeral 144.
Display of the entire audio-visual clip can occur concurrent with
or subsequent to the process verifying the correctness of the
inputted answer. In the process as depicted in the flow chart of
FIG. 2, the audio-visual clip can be displayed followed by a
visual, audible and/or audio-visual display of the correct answer,
as at reference numeral 142. It is contemplated that the correct
answer display can occur immediately upon the display of the
audio-visual clip in situations where the correct answer is
recorded and no second-try option exists. Alternately, in
situations where a second-try option exists, as at reference
numeral 142, it is contemplated that the display of correct answer
will be delayed until the second-try option has been exhausted.
[0039] Subsequent to the display of correct answer, as at reference
numeral 146, a suitable reward clip can be played, as at reference
numeral 148. The reward clip can include reinforcement as to the
correct answer, information regarding the status of the scores of
the various players, etc. It is also contemplated that the reward
clip can be any of a number of various entertaining audio-visual
features such as audio applause, visual indicators of characters or
personalities giving congratulations to the various players,
telling a joke, etc. Such clips could be specially recorded for the
game method or could be stock footage that is assembled or stored
for this purpose.
[0040] The method as disclosed also contemplates tabulation and
recording of response scores based upon analysis associated with
the audio-visual clip. In its simplest sense, the individual
players will assess whether the registered response corresponds
with the accurate answer. In more detailed versions of the game
method disclosed, the registered responses can be electronically
analyzed and the degree of accuracy assessed. Scores can be
assigned to the various registered responses based upon an
appropriate lookup table or other electronic assessment means.
[0041] It is contemplated that the method as disclosed includes
appropriate and accurate means for the individual players 16, 18 to
receive and record the scores achieved. In the simplest sense of
this method, a correct score will permit the individual to advance
a game piece one space on an appropriate game board such as the one
depicted in FIG. 3, which will be discussed in greater detail
subsequently. In electronically interactive versions of the game
method, it is contemplated that the individual will be provided
with a suitable electronically tabulated and registered response of
correct answers. It is also contemplated that individuals, upon
receiving a correct or incorrect answer, can receive appropriate
responses which will enhance the enjoyment of and participation in
the game as at 30. These encouragement clips can include, but are
not limited to, prerecorded applause, sound effects, and the like.
Where desired or required, the cued encouragement clip can be
correlated to the subject matter of the audio-visual data library.
Thus, by way of nonlimiting example, a correct response "reward"
could be recorded audio-visual applause from one or more of the
characters of the subject comedy show. Where such encouragement
clips are employed, it is contemplated that the underlying game or
protocol can include appropriate selection criteria for selecting
the encouragement clip from an associated library. Alternately,
such encouragement clips can be selected based on a randomizing
sequence present in the operational protocol.
[0042] The encouragement clip can also be in the form of repeat
questions or cueing for additional or different answers if desired
or required. Thus, the score may be modified or changed depending
upon whether the protocol will permit a re-answer or modified
answer.
[0043] Once the score for a particular question has been
calculated, physical registration can proceed, for example by
moving a game piece on a physical or electronic board or other
suitable means. The game board can be either a physical printed
board or an appropriate video screen projected from a suitable
audio-visual playback device. The board can include a series of
marked spaces that progress from a beginning to an end point. It is
contemplated that the board can include various rewards or can be
configured with phrases or snippets relevant to the subject of the
particular game. Thus, a game which is testing players' knowledge
about a particular comedy show could include characteristic
phrases, gag lines, or the like. Where the board is electronically
interactive, it is also contemplated that one or more of the spaces
depicted on the board can be capable of generating commands,
responses, or suggestions which are either audible or presented on
the video playback device. Such commands could include singing a
comedy theme song or other issues relating to trivia items.
Additionally, it is contemplated that, where the board is
electronically interactive, landing on a certain board space could
trigger a specified audio-visual clip which is designed to enhance
enjoyment of the game-playing experience or provide additional
opportunities for a player or players to test relevant
knowledge.
[0044] In its most general sense, the game board provides a means
for controlling the number of question iterations that occur in the
game cycle. The forward movement to an accepted end point can be
taken to determine a winner of the game.
[0045] It is also contemplated that the game method as disclosed
herein can be utilized in applications which do not require a game
board. Such applications include, but are not limited to,
multiplayer internet participation and various contests and the
like. Turning now to FIG. 1, it is contemplated that once scores
are recorded and noted in any appropriate fashion, the question
cycle can be repeated. This can include a step to cue a subsequent
question according to the process previously outlined as set forth
at reference numeral 32. The selection of the subsequent question
can be selected by appropriate randomization software and
protocols. Alternately, it is considered within the purview of this
disclosure to integrate question selection routines that will
factor issues such as the number of questions a player answers
correctly or the number of players answering a specific question
correctly to determine the degree of difficulty for subsequent
questions.
[0046] In one embodiment of the method as disclosed, the recorded
answers may be maintained in an electronically controllable memory
for a suitable interval--for example, the duration of a question
cycle, the duration of an individual game, or the like. It is
contemplated that the electronically controllable memory can be
maintained in a location either proximate to the players, as in a
device integral to a game board or dedicated electronic game
device, or the electronically controllable memory can be maintained
at a location remote from the players as would occur which when a
central unit is utilized to provide a game playing experience using
electronic communication devices such as the Internet and the like.
It is also contemplated that the questions and associated video
clips can be maintained in a suitable electronically controllable
archive, which may be proximate or remote as desired or
required.
[0047] The electronically controllable archive can be configured to
be accessible through a suitable user interface. Various archives
can be either proximate or remote to the various players. It is
contemplated that the archive can be maintained in a suitable
physical medium such as a computer program, digital video disk,
digital cartridge, videotape, or other suitable medium which will
permit access to the various audio-visual clips and any associated
questions. Where the archive is maintained proximate to the user,
it is contemplated that the archive can be permanently positioned
in an appropriate access device or can be insertable into a
standard playback device such as a digital videodisc player,
personal computer, or the like.
[0048] It is also contemplated that the electronically controllable
archive can be at a central location removed from various players.
The location can be one accessible by appropriate electronic
communication which will permit player access at a predetermined
time or on demand as required or desired. Where the electronically
controllable archive is remote from the players, it is contemplated
that the electronically controllable archive and central location
will include appropriate protocol and procedures for interactively
transmitting audio-visual clips and associated questions to players
and for receiving and recording appropriate responses. Suitable
electronic communication includes, but is not limited to, internet
communication and the like.
[0049] Turning now to FIG. 2, a flow chart showing an exemplary
process of the game method of the present invention is set forth.
At the outset, as at reference numeral 110, appropriate triggers
and instructions are presented to begin the play sequence.
Typically, this can include an appropriate sign-on, start-switch,
or the like. This results in an initial display as at reference
numeral 112. The initial display can be an appropriate screen or
multiple screens suitable to provide introductory information,
entertainment instructions, advertiser information, security
protocols and appropriate cues for initiating the game sequence. It
is contemplated that the initial display will prompt user input to
initiate an individual game as at reference numeral 114. User input
can include appropriate log-ons to identify the number and
individual players as well as an appropriate initiation sequence.
Once the initiation sequence has been properly executed, a command
can be issued to access audio-visual clips stored in an appropriate
electronically controllable archive 116 or other suitable data
storage medium. The selection of an individual audio-visual clip
can occur by a suitable randomization selection protocol as at
reference numeral 118. After execution by the appropriate
randomization selection protocol, the selected display can be
displayed to the game players as at reference numeral 120.
[0050] As depicted in FIG. 3, the user interface(s) 214 are in
electronic communication with microprocessor 210. This, answers
which are inputted can be maintained and processed through
appropriate software or hardware contained in microprocessor 210.
Microprocessor 210 is also in electronic communication with an
appropriate interface or jack 216, which permits communication with
an appropriate playback device 218. It is contemplated that the
playback device 218 can be a suitable independent electronic device
such as a television, computer monitor, or the like. It is also
contemplated that the playback device can be integral with the play
board 210 as desired or required.
[0051] Interface 216 can be any suitable plug, jack, video hookup
or the like which would permit interactive communication between
the external device 218 and the game board 200.
[0052] The game board 200 as depicted in FIG. 3 also includes a
suitable audio-visual playback mechanism 220 such as a compact disc
player, DVD player, or the like. The playback device 220 is in
electronic communication with the microprocessor as well as in
communication with any suitable display device such as the external
display device 218.
[0053] It is also contemplated that the game board can be
configured to permit the coupling or linking of an external compact
disc player as desired or required.
[0054] The playback device 220 can be configured to accept
appropriate digital or analog storage material for playback and
processing. It is contemplated that the data contained in a
suitable storage disc or other device will include audio-visual
clips, information regarding the questions and appropriate answers
as well as any ancillary material which would be desired or
required for playing the game.
[0055] Turning now to FIG. 3, there is depicted an electronically
enhanced game board for use with the game method as disclosed
herein. The game board 200 as disclosed herein is configured for a
maximum of four player inputs. However, it is contemplated that the
game board can be suitably configured with appropriate interfaces
to permit multiple players.
[0056] The game board is composed of a suitable substrate 202 on
which various printed material such as a game path 204 can be
displayed. The game board substrate 202 also includes suitable
electronic devices which can be permanently imprinted or embedded
within the device to facilitate play.
[0057] The game path 204 can be composed of multiple spaces 206,
208, which can include appropriate printed legends and
instructions. It is also contemplated that the spaces 206, 208 can
be configured to include appropriate sensors, triggers, or the
like, electronically embedded in the substrate 202 in underlying
relationship to an appropriate game space. Alternately, the game
spaces can be composed of each individual trigger or sensor 208.
The electronic sensors can be touch pads, proximity sensors, or the
like, which will provide a signal that a game piece is moveably
positioned thereon.
[0058] The sensors 208 are in electronic communication with a
suitable microprocessor 210 that can control various signal input
and provide appropriate operational protocol for the game board.
The operational protocol can include the illumination or activation
of various mechanisms associated with the device or contained
therein. Additionally, it is contemplated that the microprocessor
can be one which includes decisional logic that can include, but is
not limited to, the selection or randomization of audio-visual
clips and the like. The control electronics and any associated
electronic devices can be operated by a suitable power source 212.
In the embodiment as set forth in FIG. 3, power source 212 is
integral to the game board 200. However, it is also contemplated
that the power source can be external to the device. Suitable
onboard power sources include batteries and the like.
[0059] The game board device as depicted in FIG. 3 also includes a
suitable user interface 214 for receiving user inputted responses.
As depicted in FIG. 3, user interface 214 is a series of designated
touch pads that can be employed to record a multiple choice answer.
It is also contemplated that the user interface 214 can be
configured to receive other various inputted responses of varying
degrees of complexity.
[0060] While the invention has been described in connection with
what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not
limited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is
intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements
included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, which
scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to
encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as
permitted under the law.
* * * * *