U.S. patent application number 10/963831 was filed with the patent office on 2005-05-05 for method and apparatus for multiple game gaming.
Invention is credited to Jones, Cory, Larsen, Erik.
Application Number | 20050093240 10/963831 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34555943 |
Filed Date | 2005-05-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050093240 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jones, Cory ; et
al. |
May 5, 2005 |
Method and apparatus for multiple game gaming
Abstract
A method and apparatus for multiple game gaming in which a first
game is played, a second game is played at least partially
concurrently the first game, and a game element for the second game
is provided when a game element for the first game is provided. The
first game may be a card game, of a blackjack or poker type. The
second game may be a slots, bingo or roulette game.
Inventors: |
Jones, Cory; (Aliso Viejo,
CA) ; Larsen, Erik; (Ladera Ranch, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MacLane C. Key
12329 Antietam Road
Lake Ridge
VA
22192
US
|
Family ID: |
34555943 |
Appl. No.: |
10/963831 |
Filed: |
October 14, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60514901 |
Oct 29, 2003 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/292 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3267 20130101; G07F 17/3262 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/292 |
International
Class: |
A63F 001/00 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A method for multiple game gaming comprising the steps of:
playing a first game; playing a second game wherein said step of
playing said second game is performed at least partially
concurrently with said step of playing said first game; and
providing a second game element for said second game when a first
game element for said first game is provided.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of: betting
upon said first game; and betting upon said second game.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein said step of betting upon said
first game and said step of betting upon said second game are
accomplished by placing a single bet.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein said first game is a card
game.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein said second game is a slot
game.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein said second game is a bingo
game.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein said second game is a roulette
game.
8. A multiple game gaming system comprising: a first game system; a
second game system wherein said second game system is configured to
be played at least partially concurrently with play of said first
game system; and a game element provision device configured to
provide a second game element for said second game system when a
first game element for said first game system is provided.
9. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 further comprising: a
bet placing system configured to enable betting upon said first
game system, wherein said bet placing system is further configured
to enable betting upon said second game system.
10. The multiple game gaming system of claim 9 wherein said bet
placing system is further configured to enable betting upon said
first game system and said second game system to be accomplished by
placing a single bet.
11. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said first
game system is a card game system.
12. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said second
game system is a slot game system.
13. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said second
game system is a bingo game system.
14. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said second
game system is a roulette game system.
15. A computer program product comprising: a computer usable medium
having computer readable program code embodied therein configured
to control multiple game gaming, said computer program product
comprising: computer readable code configured to cause a computer
to provide a first game system; computer readable code configured
to cause a computer to provide a second game system wherein said
second game system is configured to be played at least partially
concurrently with play of said first game system; and computer
readable code configured to cause a computer to provide a second
game element for said second game system when a first game element
for said first game system is provided.
16. The computer program product of claim 15 further comprising:
computer readable code configured to cause a computer to enable
betting upon said first game system; and computer readable code
configured to cause a computer to enable betting upon said second
game system.
17. The computer program product of claim 16 further comprising:
computer readable code configured to cause a computer to enable
betting upon said first game system and said second game system to
be accomplished by placing a single bet.
18. The computer program product of claim 15 wherein said first
game system is a card game system.
19. The computer program product of claim 15 wherein said second
game system is a slot game system.
20. The computer program product of claim 15 wherein said second
game system is a roulette game system.
Description
[0001] RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION
[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application, Ser. No. 60/514,901, filed Oct. 29, 2003,
entitled, "Method and Apparatus for Multiple Game Gaming," the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention relates to the field of gaming, and in
particular to a method and apparatus for multiple game gaming.
[0005] 2. Background Art
[0006] Gambling establishments typically desire to have patrons
play their games of chance as much as possible. While some players
may win large or small amounts, the gambling establishment's games
are arranged such that the gambling establishment is statistically
likely to profit. Different games appeal to different players. For
example, many players prefer the high payout possibilities of games
that have a low chance of winning (e.g., slot machines). Other
players prefer to have some sense of interaction with the game that
influences the outcome (e.g., blackjack).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a
method and apparatus for multiple game gaming. In one non-limiting
embodiment of the present invention, a first gaming system is
associated with a second gaming system. In one non-limiting
embodiment, an element of the first game (e.g., a card, token, or
piece) is associated with an element of the second game (e.g., a
symbol, a number, or a location indicator). In one non-limiting
embodiment, a player plays both the first game and the second game
using the associated elements. In one non-limiting embodiment, the
first or second game is a card game (e.g., blackjack, poker, etc.).
In another non-limiting embodiment, the first or second game is a
slot game (e.g., three-reel, four-reel, five-reel, etc.). In
another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second game is
a keno game. In still another non-limiting embodiment, either the
first or second game is a bingo game. In yet another non-limiting
embodiment, either the first or second game is a roulette game.
[0008] In one non-limiting embodiment, a card from a card game also
has a symbol used in a slot game. Thus, the player plays the card
game and the slot game simultaneously. Various non-limiting example
embodiments are described in an Example Embodiments section below.
It should be noted that one of ordinary skill in the art will
understand that the specific rules and payouts in the slot and
blackjack games of the example embodiments of the Example
Embodiments section may be varied to generate various other
non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. In one
non-limiting embodiment, the slot game has four reel wins (e.g.,
four diamond symbols on four cards). In still another non-limiting
embodiment, the slot game has five reel wins (e.g., five diamond
symbols on five cards).
[0009] In another non-limiting embodiment, a player is able to play
a slot game using cards dealt to the player and cards dealt to
another player or the dealer. For example, the player can place a
bet for a five slot game that is played with the first three cards
dealt to the player and the first two cards dealt to the
dealer.
[0010] In one non-limiting embodiment, the cards are physical cards
and the slot symbols are placed upon the cards. In another
non-limiting embodiment, the two games are computer generated.
Thus, the slot symbols are electronically assigned to the cards as
or before they are displayed. In one non-limiting embodiment, the
slot symbols that will be displayed if the player takes a maximum
number of cards are determined. In one non-limiting embodiment, the
system determines an order to display the slot symbols that would
entice a player to draw additional cards. For example, if two
symbols of a winning sequence are present, but not the third, the
two symbols are displayed with the initial two cards dealt because
the player would then have an incentive to take a third card. In
another non-limiting embodiment, the system determines an order to
display the slot symbols that would not entice a player to draw
additional cards. For example, if a winning two-symbol sequence is
present in a three-symbol game, the winning two symbols will not
both be displayed with the initial two cards dealt because the
player would have an incentive to take the additional card for the
guaranteed payoff. If the player doesn't take the additional card,
the slot game doesn't pay off.
[0011] In another non-limiting embodiment, the order in which the
symbols are displayed is determined by an algorithm that induces
good play by the player at some times and poor play by the player
at other times. The changes in the inducement algorithm are
designed to prevent a player from consistently accurately
predicting whether good or bad play is being induced. In one
non-limiting embodiment, the inducement algorithm comprises a
random element. In another non-limiting embodiment, symbols are
associated with cards randomly, and the order of card play is also
random.
[0012] In one non-limiting embodiment, a player plays a card game
(e.g., 21, a.k.a. blackjack). In addition to the standard card
value and suit information (e.g., queen of hearts), the card also
has a location indicator for a bingo game (e.g., "B52"). Before a
card game begins, a player may decide to participate in the
additional bingo game. As the player receives cards for his
blackjack hand, the player also has the opportunity to fill in
locations on the bingo "card" the player is playing. In various
non-limiting embodiments, the card could be a physical card, a
pattern on a table at which the game is being played, an electronic
representation of a bingo card, or any other means for representing
when one player has won the bingo game (e.g., the game could be
played electronically with no representation of progress for the
player until an indicator such as a light or buzzer indicates that
this player has won).
[0013] In one non-limiting embodiment, the bingo game is allowed to
take place during the course of a plurality of hands of the card
game until a winner is determined. In one non-limiting embodiment,
players can begin playing the bingo game at any time by "buying" a
bingo card. It will be obvious to one or ordinary skill in the art
that the player does not necessarily actually buy the card, and to
"buy" a bingo card can refer to renting the card or merely paying
for the ability to use that card in playing this round of this
game. "Buying" a bingo card is frequently used to refer to the act
of wagering on and playing the bingo game. In one non-limiting
embodiment, if a player misses a predetermined number of hands of
the card game (e.g., one hand), the player forfeits the bingo game.
In another non-limiting embodiment, even if all other players
forfeit, a remaining player must still achieve a bingo to win. In
one non-limiting embodiment, the gaming establishment (e.g., the
house) keeps a portion of the wager amount. In another non-limiting
embodiment, if all players forfeit, the house keeps the total
amount wagered. In various non-limiting embodiments, variations on
the rules of the card game and the bingo game was well as the
method of betting are used.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
present invention will become better understood with regard to the
following description, appended claims and accompanying drawings
where:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of the process of multiple game
gaming in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of the process of displaying game
elements when a first game is a blackjack style game played with
physical cards and the second game is a three-wheel slot style game
played with a video display in accordance with one non-limiting
embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of the procedure for activating an
indicator in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a
multiple game gaming system in accordance with one non-limiting
embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a player position at a table at
which blackjack and slots multiple gaming is being played in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 6A is a flow diagram of the process of playing a
combination blackjack and bingo game from one player's perspective
in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention.
[0021] FIG. 6B is a flow diagram of sub-process A of FIG. 6A.
[0022] FIG. 6C is a flow diagram of sub-process B of FIG. 6A.
[0023] FIG. 6D is a flow diagram of sub-process C of FIG. 6A.
[0024] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a hold
'em poker game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a hold
'em poker game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in which
it is unnecessary for a player to win the hold 'em poker bet in
order to win the slots bet in accordance with one non-limiting
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a
blackjack game and a roulette game multiple game in accordance with
one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a general purpose computer in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0028] The invention is a method and apparatus for multiple game
gaming. In the following description, numerous specific details are
set forth to provide a more thorough description of embodiments of
the invention. It is apparent, however, to one skilled in the art,
that the invention may be practiced without these specific details.
In other instances, well known features have not been described in
detail so as not to obscure the invention. All words, terms, and
phrases in the specification, drawings, and claims are intended to
be interpreted as broadly as possible without causing the claims to
be anticipated by or obvious in view of the prior art.
[0029] Combination of Multiple Gaming Systems
[0030] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a
first gaming system is associated with a second gaming system. In
one non-limiting embodiment, an element of the first game (e.g., a
card, token, or piece) is associated with an element of the second
game (e.g., a symbol, a number, or a location indicator). In
various non-limiting embodiments, the element of the first game and
the element of the second game may be associated without being
physically combined. In various non-limiting embodiments,
utilization of an element of the first game causes and/or enables
utilization of an element of the second game. In another
embodiment, an element of the first gaming system is physically
combined with an element of the second gaming system. In one
non-limiting embodiment, that a first game element is associated
with a second game element means merely that the second game
element is provided when the first game element is provided, though
not necessarily at the exact same moment. In other non-Limiting
embodiments, other types of association are made.
[0031] Game Play
[0032] In one non-limiting embodiment, a player plays both the
first game and the second game using the associated elements. In
one non-limiting embodiment, a player must play both games. In
another non-limiting embodiment, a player is only required to play
one of the games. In still another embodiment in which a player is
only required to play one of the games, the player may play the
second game only if the player makes an additional wager. In one
non-limiting embodiment, when a player elects to only play one of
the games, the game display (i.e., the tokens utilized) is the same
as if the player elected to play both games. Thus, a player could
see, at least partly, how the second game would have developed had
the player elected to play both games. In another non-Limiting
embodiment, when a player elected to only play one of the games,
only the elected game's tokens are displayed.
[0033] In one non-limiting embodiment, winning the first game is a
precondition to winning the second game. In another non-limiting
embodiment, a player may win the second game without winning the
first game.
[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates the process of multiple game gaming in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention. At block 100, it is determined whether a player wishes
to play a second game in addition to a first game. If the player
does not wish to play a second game in addition to a first game, at
block 110, the player plays the first game according to the first
game's rules and the process continues at block 180. If the player
wishes to play a second game in addition to a first game, at block
120, the player places an additional wager for the second game.
[0035] At block 130, the player receives an initial set of elements
for the first game and an associated set of elements for the second
game. At block 140, it is determined whether the player desires
additional elements. If the player desires additional elements, at
block 150, the player receives an additional element for the first
game and an additional element for the second game, and the process
repeats at block 140. It will be clear to one of ordinary skill in
the art that an associated first game element and second game
element can be received in any order or simultaneously in
accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the present
invention. In this way, a player receives a second game element
when that player receives a first game element, regardless of the
actual order of delivery. If the player does not desire additional
elements, at block 160, it is determined whether the player is owed
a payout in accordance with the rules of the combined game system.
If the player is not owed a payout, the process continues at block
180.
[0036] If the player is owed a payout, at block 170, the player is
paid his or her winnings. At block 180, it is determined whether
the player wishes to play again. If the player wishes to play
again, the process repeats at block 100. If the player does not
wish to play again, at block 190, multiple game gaming is ended for
that player.
EXAMPLE GAMES
[0037] In one non-limiting embodiment, the first or second game is
a card game (e.g., blackjack, poker, etc.). In another non-limiting
embodiment, the first or second game is a slot game (e.g.,
three-reel, four-reel, five-reel, etc.). In another non-limiting
embodiment, either the first or second game is a keno game. In
still another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second
game is a bingo game. In yet another non-limiting embodiment,
either the first or second game is a dice game (e.g., craps).
EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0038] In one non-limiting embodiment, a card from a card game also
has a symbol used in a slot game. Thus, the player plays the card
game and the slot game simultaneously. Various non-limiting example
embodiments are referred to as "Slots/Blackjack" embodiments and
are described below.
DESIGN OVERVIEW OF SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT
[0039] In a non-limiting Slots/Blackjack embodiment, players
receive cards and begin playing a specific card game (Black Jack,
Poker, etc.). Each of the cards dealt to the player has a chance of
being associated with a symbol as well as the normal numeric and
suit values. The player is given the opportunity to win their wager
on the initially described card game based on the rules of that
card game. The player is also given the chance to obtain a series
of the aforementioned symbols and qualify for an additional "slot"
payout based on a specific secondary wager. In an alternative
non-limiting embodiment, the double wager system is modified to
accommodate both games in one wager.
BLACKJACK RULES IN ACCORDANCE WITH ONE NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK
EMBODIMENT
[0040] In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention, blackjack is played with one to eight ordinary
decks of cards. Cards of rank 2 through 10 are scored according to
their face value. All face cards are 10 points. Aces are worth
either 1 or 11 points. The highest hand in blackjack is an ace and
any 10-point card and is called a blackjack. A winning blackjack
pays 3:2 (e.g., a $2 bet wins a $3 payout). If both player and
dealer have a blackjack the bet is a push. Aside from a blackjack,
a winning hand pays even money (e.g., a $2 bet wins a $2 payout).
The player wins if his hand has more points than the dealer,
without going over 21. If either the player or dealer goes over 21
it is called a break or bust, and the busted hand automatically
loses. If both the player and dealer bust the player loses. If the
player and dealer tie the bet is a push (i.e., neither the player
nor the dealer loses or wins money on the hand).
SLOT PAYOUT RULES IN ACCORDANCE WITH A NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK
EMBODIMENT
[0041] In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention, only the first three cards dealt to the player
are eligible for additional symbols. Only player cards show
symbols. Not obtaining a third card will result in not showing a
third symbol, resulting in an automatic loss. Specific combinations
of symbols garner different levels of payout dependent on rarity
(e.g., three of the same symbols is a winner). Certain symbols
require that only one or two be present to qualify as a winning
combination. However, the player will still need to acquire a third
card to validate the additional "slot" payout (e.g., two cherries
on any two of the three cards is a "slots" winner, but must still
have three cards to win; or one cherry on any of the three cards is
a slots winner, but must still have three cards to win). Any other
combination of symbols is a slots loss. Additional "slots" bets can
be placed in 1 and 2 unit multiples (e.g., 0.25, 0.50; 1, 2; 5, 10)
or a separate and specific amount. The max slot bet is never
greater than the blackjack bet. The player must have three cards to
win the additional "slots" bet. Without three cards the players
loses the secondary "slots" bet. Payout of additional "slots" bet
occurs immediately after the third card is dealt. Even if the
player looses primary card game, example, (Blackjack) he may still
win his Slots bet.
NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT GAME PLAY EXAMPLE
[0042] In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention, a round of Slots/Blackjack begins with the
player placing a Blackjack bet and a separate Slots bet. The dealer
gives the player and himself two cards. Player cards are dealt face
up. One dealer card is dealt face up and the other face down.
[0043] The player has four options: Stand, Hit, Double, or Split.
If the player is satisfied with his hand as-is he or she may stand.
If the player only has two cards at this point he or she loses the
Slots bet. The player may take another card (i.e., hit) and
continue to do so until the player busts or stands. If the player
feels he or she needs one and only one more card, then the player
may double his or her Blackjack bet and be dealt one more card.
This option is only offered on the first two cards. If the player's
first two cards are of equal point value he or she may split them
into two hands. In this event each card is the first card of a new
hand. The player must also make another Blackjack wager of equal
value to the first for the second hand. If the player splits only
the player's first three cards dealt are used for determining
winning of Slots bet.
[0044] In various non-limiting embodiments, Blackjack probabilities
are not affected by the addition of Slots symbols to the cards. In
one embodiment, the game of Blackjack is unchanged in all respects,
and follows the rules described above. In one non-limiting
embodiment, Slots symbols are physically separate from the cards.
When a card is utilized, thus prompting the utilization of a slot
symbol, a slot symbol is randomly or pseudo-randomly selected. In
another non-limiting embodiment, Slot symbols are physically
connected to the cards.
[0045] Determining the Symbols
[0046] In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment, three random
(or pseudo-random) numbers are generated and divided by 100. The
remainders, 0-99, are mapped to a symbol on each of the three
reels. In an example embodiment, the three random numbers are
1749348754, 48, and 923475927. Thus, the remainders are 54, 48, and
27. The types and frequency of symbols for this embodiment are
described in Table 1 below. Table 2 below illustrates the mapping
of remainder value to symbol for each of the three reels for this
embodiment. Thus, the symbols generated are Lemon, Orange, and
Orange.
ORDERING SYMBOLS IN A NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT
[0047] In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention, the player may not acquire the third card. Thus,
it is sometimes desirable to entice the player with the first two
cards. The prioritized order of placing symbols on the first two
cards is as follows:
[0048] Placement order does not matter if the symbols make a three
symbol win.
[0049] If two symbols are the same these are placed on the first
two cards.
[0050] all symbols are different but one is a Cherry, the Cherry is
placed on one of the first two cards randomly.
[0051] If all symbols are different and there is no Cherry the
symbol placement does not matter.
[0052] In an example embodiment, when the random symbols Cherry,
Plum, and Plum are generated, cards 1 and 2 are associated with a
Plum symbol, and card 3 is associated with a Cherry symbol.
DETERMINING RETURNS IN A NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK
EMBODIMENT
[0053] Utilizing the symbols weight on each reel in Table 1, each
Slots payout combination is generated in Table 4. The probability
for each winning combination is found by dividing the number of
instances of a winning combination by the total number of
combinations using Table 4. The results are generated in Table 5.
Player Returns are generated in Table 6 by multiplying the Payout
and Probability.
[0054] Symbol Placement
[0055] In one non-limiting embodiment, strategic placement of the
"slots" symbols are used to entice the player into taking a third
card, thus, lowering the likelihood of a blackjack win. In various
non-limiting embodiments, enticement is made possible by having the
ability to control the ordering of the elements of the second game
(e.g., the "slots" symbols). In various non-limiting embodiments,
the ordering of the elements of the second game are determined and
displayed electronically. In one non-limiting embodiment, the
elements of the first game are physical, and the elements of the
second game are displayed electronically.
[0056] FIG. 2 illustrates the process of displaying game elements
when a first game is a blackjack style game played with physical
cards and the second game is a three-wheel slot style game played
with a video display in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment
of the present invention. At block 200, the three slot symbols
available to be played in the second game are determined. At block
210, an order for display of the slot symbols is chosen such that
sub-optimal play of the first game is enticed. At block 220, a
first card is provided to the player and the first slot symbol in
the order is displayed. In one non-limiting embodiment, each player
position at a table has one or more video displays for displaying
the symbols of the second game.
[0057] At block 230, a second card is provided to the player and
the second slot symbol in the order is displayed. At block 240, it
is determined whether the player wants an additional card. If the
player does not want an additional card, at block 250, the player
loses the second game, and play of the first game continues
according to its rules. In various non-limiting embodiments, the
third slot symbol in the order is not displayed if the player does
not take a third card. In other non-limiting embodiments, the third
slot symbol is displayed after the player's decision on taking a
card regardless of the player's decision.
[0058] If the player wants an additional card, at block 260, a
third card is provided to the player, the third slot symbol in the
order is displayed, and play of both games continues in accordance
with their respective rules.
[0059] Additional Enticement
[0060] In one non-limiting embodiment in which one or more
currently undisplayed elements to be displayed for a second game
are determined before a player has the opportunity to decide
whether to take an additional element, an indicator is activated
when the combination of second game elements for some player is a
member of a set of special combinations. In one non-limiting
embodiment, the special set of combinations is any winning
combination. In another non-limiting embodiment, the set of
combinations is combinations that have a payout above a certain
level. In one non-limiting embodiment, the indicator is visual. In
another embodiment, the indicator is a sound. In various
non-limiting embodiments, the indicator may only be activated when
a threshold number of players are playing.
[0061] In some non-limiting embodiments, an indication is given
when an indicator may be activated. In a non-limiting example
embodiment, the indicator is a light that flashes. When a
sufficient number of players are playing to enable the indicator,
the indicator light turns on and remains steadily on until the
indicator is activated, at which time it begins to flash. When an
insufficient number of players are playing, the indicator light
turns off and remains off until a sufficient number of players are
playing.
[0062] FIG. 3 illustrates the procedure for activating an indicator
in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention. At block 300, the elements that may be played for each
player's second game are determined. At block 310, it is determined
whether any player has a combination of possible second game
elements that would be a special combination. If some player has a
combination of possible second game elements that would be a
special combination, at block 320, the indicator is activated. If
no player has combination of possible second game elements that
would be a special combination, at block 330, the indicator is not
activated.
[0063] Tables
1TABLE 1.1 Reel Weights Symbol Reel 1 Reel 2 Reel 3 Diamond 1 1 2
Cherry 11 9 1 Plum 11 12 7 Bell 14 26 5 Orange 11 12 27 Lemon 22 19
22 Horseshoe 30 21 36 Total 100 100 100
[0064]
2TABLE 1.2 Reel Mapping Symbol Reel 1 Reel 2 Reel 3 Diamond 0 0 0-1
Cherry 1-10 1-9 2 Plum 11-21 10-21 3-9 Bell 22-35 22-47 10-14
Orange 36-46 48-59 15-41 Lemon 47-69 60-78 42-63 Horseshoe 70-99
79-99 64-99
[0065]
3TABLE 1.3 Slots Payout Symbol 1 Unit Pays 2 Units Pays 3 Diamonds
1000 Units 10000 Units 3 Cherries 100 Units 1000 Units 3 Plums 50
Units 100 Units 3 Bells 25 Units 50 Units 3 Oranges 10 Units 25
Units 3 Lemons 5 Units 10 Units Any 2 Cherries 3 Units 5 Units 3
Horseshoes 2 Units 3 Units Any 1 Cherry 1 Units 2 Units
[0066]
4TABLE 1.4 Winning Symbol Combinations 3 Diamonds 1 .times. 1
.times. 2 2 3 Cherries 11 .times. 9 .times. 1 99 3 Plums 11 .times.
12 .times. 7 924 3 Bells 14 .times. 26 .times. 5 1820 3 Oranges 11
.times. 12 .times. 27 3564 3 Lemons 22 .times. 19 .times. 22 9196
Any 2 Cherries 30 .times. 21 .times. 36 22680 Any 2 Cherries 11
.times. 9 .times. (100-1) + 11603 11 .times. (100-9) .times. 1 +
(100-11) .times. 9 .times. 1 3 Horseshoes 11 .times. (100-9)
.times. (100-1) + (100-11) .times. 9 .times. (100-1) + (100-11)
.times. (100-9) .times. 1 Winning 236385 Total 100 .times. 100
.times. 100 1000000
[0067]
5TABLE 1.5 Probabilities Comb/ Total Comb Probability 3 Diamonds 2/
0.0002% 1000000 3 Cherries 99/ 0.0099% 1000000 3 Plums 924/ 0.0924%
1000000 3 Bells 1820/ 0.1820% 1000000 3 Oranges 3564/ 0.3564%
1000000 3 Lemons 9196/ 0.9196% 1000000 Any 2 Cherries 11603/
1.1603% 1000000 3 Horseshoes 22680/ 2.2680% Any 1 Cherry
186497/1000000 18.6497% Winning 236385/1000000 23.6385%
[0068]
6TABLE 1.6 Player Returns Table 1.6 Occurrence .times. Occurrence
.times. Payout Return Payout Return 3 Diamonds 0.000002 .times.
1000 0.20% 0.000002 .times. 10000 2.00% 3 Cherries 0.000099 .times.
100 0.99% 0.000099 .times. 1000 9.90% 3 Plums 0.000924 .times. 50
4.62% 0.000924 .times. 100 9.24% 3 Bells 0.00182 .times. 25 4.55%
0.00182 .times. 50 9.10% 3 Oranges 0.003564 .times. 10 3.56%
0.003564 .times. 25 8.91% 3 Lemons 0.009196 .times. 5 4.60%
0.009196 .times. 10 9.20% Any 2 0.011603 .times. 3 3.48% 0.011603
.times. 5 5.80% Cherries 3 Horseshoes 0.02268 .times. 2 4.54%
0.02268 .times. 3 6.80% Any 1 0.186497 .times. 1 18.65% 0.186497
.times. 2 37.30% Cherry Total 45.19% 98.25%
[0069] It should be noted that one of ordinary skill in the art
will understand that the specific rules and payouts in the slot and
blackjack games of the above non-limiting example embodiments may
be varied to generate various other non-limiting embodiments of the
present invention. In one non-limiting embodiment, the slot game
has four reel wins (e.g., four diamond symbols on four cards). In
still another non-limiting embodiment, the slot game has five reel
wins (e.g., five diamond symbols on five cards).
[0070] Alternative Rules Allowing Players to Use Other's Game
Elements
[0071] In another non-limiting embodiment, a player is able to play
a slot game using cards dealt to the player and cards dealt to
another player or the dealer. For example, the player can place a
bet for a five slot game that is played with the first three cards
dealt to the player and the first two cards dealt to the
dealer.
[0072] FIG. 4 illustrates the process of playing a multiple game
gaming system in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention. At block 400, a player places a blackjack bet
and a slots bet. At block 405, the player receives two cards, the
dealer receives two cards, two slot symbols associated with the
player's two cards are displayed to the player, one of the dealer's
cards is displayed to the player, and one of the slot symbols
associated with one of the dealer's cards is displayed to the
player. At block 410, it is determined whether the player takes
another card. If the player does not take another card, at block
415, the player loses the slots bet and the blackjack game
continues in accordance with its rules. If the player takes another
card, at block 420, a slots symbol associated with that card is
displayed to the player.
[0073] At block 425, it is determined whether the player's
blackjack point total exceeds 21 (i.e., the player busted). If the
player's blackjack point total exceeds 21, at block 430, the player
loses both the blackjack bet and the slots bet. If the player's
blackjack point total does not exceed 21, at block 435, it is
determined whether the player takes an additional card. If the
player takes an additional card, the process repeats at block 425.
If the player does not take an additional card, at block 440, the
dealer's undisplayed card is displayed and the undisplayed slot
symbol is displayed, and the dealer plays out the blackjack game in
accordance with that game's rules.
[0074] At block 445, it is determined whether the player won the
blackjack bet. If the player did not win the blackjack bet, at
block 450, the player also loses the slots bet. In another
non-limiting embodiment, it is not necessary for the player to win
the blackjack bet in order to win the slots bet. If the player won
the blackjack bet, at block 455, it is determined whether the
player has a winning slots combination. If the player has a winning
slots combination, at block 460, the player wins the slots bet. If
the player does not have a winning slots combination, at block 465,
the player loses the slots bet.
[0075] Various Game Element Options
[0076] In one non-limiting embodiment, the cards are physical cards
and the slot symbols are placed upon the cards as part of the
cards' markings. In another non-limiting embodiment, the cards are
physical cards and the slot symbols are separate tokens. In another
non-limiting embodiment, the two games are computer generated.
Thus, the slot symbols are electronically assigned to the cards as,
before, or even after they are displayed.
[0077] Determining Element Play Order
[0078] In various non-limiting embodiments, the order in which
elements from one or more of the games are to be played is randomly
or pseudo-randomly determined. In one non-limiting embodiment, the
slot symbols that will be displayed if the player takes a maximum
number of cards are determined before all but one of the symbols
are displayed. In one non-limiting embodiment, the system
determines an order to display the slot symbols that would entice a
player to draw additional cards. For example, if two symbols of a
winning sequence are present, but not the third, the two symbols
are displayed with the initial two cards dealt because the player
would then have an incentive to take a third card. In another
non-limiting embodiment, the system determines an order to display
the slot symbols that would not entice a player to draw additional
cards. For example, if a winning two-symbol sequence is present in
a three-symbol game, the winning two symbols will not both be
displayed with the initial two cards dealt because the player would
have an incentive to take the additional card for the guaranteed
payoff. If the player doesn't take the additional card, the slot
game doesn't pay off.
[0079] In another non-limiting embodiment, the order in which the
symbols are displayed is determined by an algorithm that induces
good play by the player at some times and poor play by the player
at other times. The changes in the inducement algorithm are
designed to prevent a player from consistently accurately
predicting whether good or bad play is being induced. In one
non-limiting embodiment, the inducement algorithm comprises a
random element. In another non-limiting embodiment, symbols are
associated with cards randomly, and the order of card play is also
random.
[0080] Partial Video Display
[0081] In one non-limiting embodiment, physical cards are dealt,
but slot symbols associated with the cards are displayed using a
video screen. In one non-limiting embodiment, the slot symbols that
are available to a player are determined before play begins, and an
order is assigned. In one non-limiting embodiment, a card reader
scans some or all of the cards as or before they are dealt so that
the card values may be input to a game control or logging system or
so that the system simply is signaled that a card is being
dealt.
[0082] FIG. 5 illustrates a player position at a table at which
blackjack and slots multiple gaming is being played in accordance
with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. The
player position 500 includes a card play area 510 in which cards
for the blackjack game are placed and a video display 520. Video
display 520 has virtual reel location 530, virtual reel location
540, and virtual reel location 550.
[0083] When a player has not yet received any cards, virtual reel
location 530, virtual reel location 540, and virtual reel location
550 all display an animation that resembles a spinning slot reel.
When a player receives a first card for the blackjack game, the
slot symbol associated with that card is displayed in virtual reel
location 530. When a player receives a second card for the
blackjack game, the slot symbol associated with that card is
displayed in virtual reel location 540. If a player receives a
third card for the blackjack game, the slot symbol associated with
that card is displayed in virtual reel location 550.
[0084] In various other non-limiting embodiments, the slot symbols
may be displayed in alternative slot reel locations. For example,
the first slot symbol may display in virtual reel location 550, the
second slot symbol may display in virtual reel location 530, and
the third slot symbol may display in virtual reel location 540. In
various other non-limiting embodiments, the arrangement of the card
playing and each individual virtual slot reel location are altered.
It will be clear to one of ordinary skill in the art that any
possibly physical arrangement may be used with one or more
non-limiting embodiments of the present invention.
BINGO EMBODIMENTS
[0085] In one non-limiting embodiment, a player plays a card game
(e.g., 21, a.k.a. blackjack). In addition to the standard card
value and suit information (e.g., queen of hearts), the card also
has a location indicator for a bingo game (e.g., "B52"). Before a
card game begins, a player may decide to participate in the
additional bingo game. As the player receives cards for his
blackjack hand, the player also has the opportunity to fill in
locations on the bingo "card" the player is playing. In various
non-limiting embodiments, the card could be a physical card, a
pattern on a table at which the game is being played, an electronic
representation of a bingo card, or any other means for representing
when one player has won the bingo game (e.g., the game could be
played electronically with no representation of progress for the
player until an indicator such as a light or buzzer indicates that
this player has won).
[0086] In one non-limiting embodiment, the bingo game is allowed to
take place during the course of a plurality of hands of the card
game until a winner is determined. In one non-limiting embodiment,
players can begin playing the bingo game at any time by "buying" a
bingo card. It will be obvious to one or ordinary skill in the art
that the player does not necessarily actually buy the card, and to
"buy" a bingo card can refer to renting the card or merely paying
for the ability to use that card in playing this round of this
game. "Buying" a bingo card is frequently used to refer to the act
of wagering on and playing the bingo game. In one non-limiting
embodiment, if a player misses a predetermined number of hands of
the card game (e.g., one hand), the player forfeits the bingo game.
In another non-limiting embodiment, even if all other players
forfeit, a remaining player must still achieve a bingo to win. In
one non-limiting embodiment, the gaming establishment (e.g., the
house) keeps a portion of the wager amount. In another non-limiting
embodiment, if all players forfeit, the house keeps the total
amount wagered. In various non-limiting embodiments, variations on
the rules of the card game and the bingo game as well as the method
of betting are used.
[0087] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D illustrate the process of playing a
combination blackjack and bingo game from one player's perspective
in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention. It should be noted that if the player (hereinafter,
"Player A") discontinues playing, both the blackjack game and bingo
game may continue. At block 600, Player A places a blackjack bet.
At block 602, sub-process A is performed and the process continues
at block 604. At block 604, sub-process B is performed and the
process continues at block 608.
[0088] At block 608, Player A receives a first card and a bingo
token. At block 610, sub-process C is performed and the process
continues at block 612. At block 612, sub-process A is performed
and the process continues at block 614. At block 614, sub-process B
is performed and the process continues at block 616.
[0089] At block 616, Player A receives a second card and a bingo
token. At block 618, sub-process C is performed and the process
continues at block 620. At block 620, sub-process A is performed
and the process continues at block 622. At block 622, sub-process B
is performed and the process continues at block 626.
[0090] At block 626, it is determined whether Player A takes
another card. If Player A does not take an additional card, at
block 628, sub-process A is performed and the process continues at
block 630. At block 630, sub-process B is performed and the process
continues at block 646.
[0091] If, at block 626, Player A takes another card, at block 632,
Player A receives an additional card and bingo token. At block 634,
it is determined whether Player A's card total exceeds 21 (i.e.,
Player A "busted"). If Player A busted, at block 636, Player A
loses the blackjack bet. At block 638, sub-process A is performed
and the process continues at block 640. At block 640, sub-process B
is performed and the process continues at block 648.
[0092] If, at block 634, Player A does not bust, at block 642,
sub-process C is performed, and the process continues at block 644.
At block 644, sub-process A is performed and the process repeats at
block 626.
[0093] At block 646, the payout or loss of Player A's blackjack
hand is determined in accordance with the rules of that game and
the process continues at block 648. At block 648, it is determined
whether Player A wishes to play another blackjack hand. If Player A
does not wish to play another blackjack hand, at block 650, Player
A forfeits any bingo cards and the process ends. If Player A wishes
to play another blackjack hand, the process continues at block
600.
[0094] Sub-process A begins at block 601. At block 601, it is
determined whether any player that has an active blackjack bet
wishes to purchase a bingo card. If such a player wishes to
purchase a bingo card, at block 603, it is determined whether a
bingo game is in progress. If a bingo game is in progress, at block
605, the player purchases a bingo card, some or all of the purchase
amount is added to the bingo jackpot, and sub-process A repeats at
block 601. If no bingo game is in progress, at block 607, a bingo
game is initiated and sub-process A continues at block 605. In
various embodiments, the house also contributes to the initial
bingo jackpot. If, at block 601, no such player wishes to purchase
a bingo card, at block 609, sub-process A ends.
[0095] Sub-process B begins at block 611. At block 611, it is
determined in accordance with the rules of the blackjack game which
player's turn it is (i.e., which player either has the option of
receiving another card or is next in line to receive another card).
At block 613, it is determined whether it is Player A's turn. If it
is Player A's turn, at block 615, sub-process B ends. If it is not
Player A's turn, at block 617, it is determined whether the player
whose turn it is (i.e., the active player), is to receive a card.
If the active player is not to receive a card, at block 619,
sub-process A is performed, and sub-process B repeats at block
611.
[0096] If the active player is to receive a card, at block 621, the
active player receives a card and a bingo token. At block 623, it
is determined whether the active player's blackjack total exceeds
21 (i.e., the active player busted). If the active player busted,
at block 625, the active player loses his or her blackjack bet,
sub-process A is performed, and sub-process B repeats at block 611.
If the active player does not bust, at block 627, it is determined
whether the active player is also playing the bingo game. If the
active player is not also playing the bingo game, the sub-process
continues at block 619.
[0097] If the active player is playing a bingo game, at block 629,
it is determined whether the active player has a winning bingo
pattern. If the active player does not have a winning bingo
pattern, the sub-process continues at block 619. If the active
player has a winning bingo pattern, at block 631, the player wins
the bingo jackpot, the bingo game ends, and the sub-process
continues at block 619.
[0098] Sub-process C begins at block 633. At block 633, it is
determined whether Player A is also playing the bingo game. If
Player A is not also playing the bingo game, the sub-process ends
at block 635. If Player A is playing a bingo game, at block 637, it
is determined whether Player A has a winning bingo pattern. If
Player A does not have a winning bingo pattern, the sub-process
ends at block 635. If Player A has a winning bingo pattern, at
block 639, Player A wins the bingo jackpot, the bingo game ends,
and the sub-process ends at block 635.
[0099] Hold 'Em Poker And Slots Multiple Gaming
[0100] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the
first game is a Hold 'Em poker type game, and the second game is a
slot type game. FIG. 7 illustrates the process of playing a hold
'em poker game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present
invention. At block 700, a player places a poker bet and a slots
bet. At block 705, the player receives two cards and two associated
slots symbols, and the dealer receives two cards. At block 710, it
is determined whether the player wishes to have additional cards.
If the player does not wish to have additional cards, at block 715,
the player folds, the player loses the poker and slots bets, and
the process repeats at block 700. If the player does wish to have
additional cards, at block 720, the player places an additional
poker bet.
[0101] At block 725, three additional cards and associated slots
symbols are revealed. At block 730, it is determined whether the
player wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not
wish to have an additional card, the process continues at block
715. If the player does wish to have an additional card, at block
735, the player places an additional poker bet.
[0102] At block 740, an additional card and associated slots symbol
are revealed. At block 745, it is determined whether the player
wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not wish to
have an additional card, the process continues at block 715. If the
player does wish to have an additional card, at block 750, the
player places an additional poker bet.
[0103] At block 755, an additional card and associated slots symbol
are revealed. At block 760, it is determined whether the player has
a winning poker hand in accordance with the rules of the hold 'em
poker game. If the player does not have a winning poker hand, the
process continues at block 715. If the player does have a winning
poker hand, at block 765, the player is paid on his poker bet in
accordance with the rules of the hold 'em poker game. At block 770,
it is determined whether the player has a winning slots
combination. If the player has a winning slots combination, at
block 775, the player is paid on his slots bet in accordance with
the rules of the slots game and the process repeats at block 700.
If the player does not have a winning slots combination, at block
780, the player loses the slots bet and the process repeats at
block 700.
[0104] FIG. 8 illustrates the process of playing a hold 'em poker
game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in which it is
unnecessary for a player to win the hold 'em poker bet in order to
win the slots bet in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of
the present invention. At block 800, a player places a poker bet
and a slots bet. At block 805, the player receives two cards and
two associated slots symbols, and the dealer receives two cards. At
block 810, it is determined whether the player wishes to have
additional cards. If the player does not wish to have additional
cards, at block 815, the player folds, the player loses the poker
and slots bets, and the process repeats at block 800. If the player
does wish to have additional cards, at block 820, the player places
an additional poker bet.
[0105] At block 825, three additional cards and associated slots
symbols are revealed. At block 830, it is determined whether the
player wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not
wish to have an additional card, the process continues at block
815. If the player does wish to have an additional card, at block
835, the player places an additional poker bet.
[0106] At block 840, an additional card and associated slots symbol
are revealed. At block 845, it is determined whether the player
wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not wish to
have an additional card, the process continues at block 815. If the
player does wish to have an additional card, at block 850, the
player places an additional poker bet.
[0107] At block 855, an additional card and associated slots symbol
are revealed. At block 860, it is determined whether the player has
a winning poker hand in accordance with the rules of the hold 'em
poker game. If the player does not have a winning poker hand, the
process continues at block 870. If the player does have a winning
poker hand, at block 865, the player is paid on his poker bet in
accordance with the rules of the hold 'em poker game. At block 870,
it is determined whether the player has a winning slots
combination. If the player has a winning slots combination, at
block 875, the player is paid on his slots bet in accordance with
the rules of the slots game and the process repeats at block 800.
If the player does not have a winning slots combination, at block
880, the player loses the slots bet and the process repeats at
block 800.
[0108] Roulette/Blackjack
[0109] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the
first game is a blackjack type game, and the second game is a
roulette type game. FIG. 9 illustrates the process of playing a
blackjack game and a roulette game multiple game in accordance with
one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 900,
a player places a blackjack bet and a roulette bet. At block 910,
the player receives two cards. At block 920, it is determined
whether the player wishes to receive another card. If the player
does not wish to receive another card, at block 930, the player
loses the roulette bet and the blackjack game proceeds in
accordance with its rules. If the player wishes to receive another
card, at block 940, the player receives a card and a roulette value
is generated. At block 950, it is determined whether the player has
won the roulette bet. If the player has won the roulette bet, at
block 960, the player is paid in accordance with the rules of the
roulette game and the blackjack game proceeds in accordance with
the rules of the blackjack game. If the player has lost the
roulette bet, at block 970, the blackjack game proceeds in
accordance with the rules of the blackjack game.
[0110] Three Game Multiple Gaming
[0111] In another non-limiting embodiment, a third game is played
in addition to the first game and second game. In a non-limiting
example embodiment, a player plays a card game wherein the cards
are associated with slot symbols for use in playing a slot game and
bingo symbols for use in playing a bingo game. In another
non-limiting example embodiment, the player plays a card game, a
first slot game using slot symbols associated with the cards of the
card game, and a second slot game using the same slot symbols used
in the first slot game. In still another non-limiting embodiment,
the second slot game uses a second set of symbols associated with
the cards of the card game. There is no upper limit to the number
of games that can be played in some non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention. Likewise, there is no upper limit to the number
and type of bets that can be placed in some non-limiting embodiment
of the present invention. Also, the number of bets (or possible
bets) and number of games played need not be the same in various
non-limiting embodiments. In one non-limiting embodiment, two or
more games are played by placing one bet. In another non-limiting
embodiment, more than one bet is placed within one game.
EMBODIMENT OF COMPUTER EXECUTION ENVIRONMENT (HARDWARE)
[0112] An embodiment of the invention can be implemented as
computer software in the form of computer readable program code
executed in a general purpose computing environment such as
environment 1000 illustrated in FIG. 10. A keyboard 1010 and mouse
1011 are coupled to a system bus 1018. The keyboard and mouse are
for introducing user input to the computer system and communicating
that user input to central processing unit (CPU) 1013. Other
suitable input devices may be used in addition to, or in place of,
the mouse 1011 and keyboard 1010. I/O (input/output) unit 1019
coupled to bi-directional system bus 1018 represents such I/O
elements as a printer, AN (audio/video) I/O, etc.
[0113] Computer 1001 may include a communication interface 1020
coupled to bus 1018. Communication interface 1020 provides a
two-way data communication coupling via a network link 1021 to a
local network 1022. For example, if communication interface 1020 is
an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card or a modem,
communication interface 1020 provides a data communication
connection to the corresponding type of telephone line, which
comprises part of network link 1021. If communication interface
1020 is a local area network (LAN) card, communication interface
1020 provides a data communication connection via network link 1021
to a compatible LAN. Wireless links are also possible. In any such
implementation, communication interface 1020 sends and receives
electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals which carry digital
data streams representing various types of information.
[0114] Network link 1021 typically provides data communication
through one or more networks to other data devices. For example,
network link 1021 may provide a connection through local network
1022 to local server computer 1023 or to data equipment operated by
ISP 1024. ISP 1024 in turn provides data communication services
through the world wide packet data communication network now
commonly referred to as the "Internet" 1025. Local network 1022 and
Internet 1025 both use electrical, electromagnetic or optical
signals which carry digital data streams. The signals through the
various networks and the signals on network link 1021 and through
communication interface 1020, which carry the digital data to and
from computer 1001, are exemplary forms of carrier waves
transporting the information.
[0115] Processor 1013 may reside wholly on client computer 1001 or
wholly on server 1026 or processor 1013 may have its computational
power distributed between computer 1001 and server 1026. Server
1026 symbolically is represented in FIG. 10 as one unit, but server
1026 can also be distributed between multiple "tiers". In one
embodiment, server 1026 comprises a middle and back tier where
application logic executes in the middle tier and persistent data
is obtained in the back tier. In the case where processor 1013
resides wholly on server 1026, the results of the computations
performed by processor 1013 are transmitted to computer 1001 via
Internet 1025, Internet Service Provider (ISP) 1024, local network
1022 and communication interface 1020. In this way, computer 1001
is able to display the results of the computation to a user in the
form of output.
[0116] Computer 1001 includes a video memory 1014, main memory 1015
and mass storage 1012, all coupled to bi-directional system bus
1018 along with keyboard 1010, mouse 1011 and processor 1013. As
with processor 1013, in various computing environments, main memory
1015 and mass storage 1012, can reside wholly on server 1026 or
computer 1001, or they may be distributed between the two.
[0117] The mass storage 1012 may include both fixed and removable
media, such as magnetic, optical or magnetic optical storage
systems or any other available mass storage technology. Bus 1018
may contain, for example, thirty-two address lines for addressing
video memory 1014 or main memory 1015. The system bus 1018 also
includes, for example, a 32-bit data bus for transferring data
between and among the components, such as processor 1013, main
memory 1015, video memory 1014 and mass storage 1012.
Alternatively, multiplex data/address lines may be used instead of
separate data and address lines.
[0118] In one embodiment of the invention, the microprocessor is
manufactured by Intel, such as the 80.times.86 or Pentium-type
processor. However, any other suitable microprocessor or
microcomputer may be utilized. Main memory 1015 is comprised of
dynamic random access memory (DRAM). Video memory 1014 is a
dual-ported video random access memory. One port of the video
memory 1014 is coupled to video amplifier 1016. The video amplifier
1016 is used to drive the cathode ray tube (CRT) raster monitor
1017. Video amplifier 1016 is well known in the art and may be
implemented by any suitable apparatus. This circuitry converts
pixel data stored in video memory 1014 to a raster signal suitable
for use by monitor 1017. Monitor 1017 is a type of monitor suitable
for displaying graphic images.
[0119] Computer 1001 can send messages and receive data, including
program code, through the network(s), network link 1021, and
communication interface 1020. In the Internet example, remote
server computer 1026 might transmit a requested code for an
application program through Internet 1025, ISP 1024, local network
1022 and communication interface 1020. The received code may be
executed by processor 1013 as it is received, and/or stored in mass
storage 1012, or other non-volatile storage for later execution. In
this manner, computer 1001 may obtain application code in the form
of a carrier wave. Alternatively, remote server computer 1026 may
execute applications using processor 1013, and utilize mass storage
1012, and/or video memory 1015. The results of the execution at
server 1026 are then transmitted through Internet 1025, ISP 1024,
local network 1022 and communication interface 1020. In this
example, computer 1001 performs only input and output
functions.
[0120] Application code may be embodied in any form of computer
program product. A computer program product comprises a medium
configured to store or transport computer readable code, or in
which computer readable code may be embedded. Some examples of
computer program products are CD-ROM disks, ROM cards, floppy
disks, magnetic tapes, computer hard drives, servers on a network,
and carrier waves.
[0121] The computer systems described above are for purposes of
example only. An embodiment of the invention may be implemented in
any type of computer system or programming or processing
environment.
[0122] Thus, a method and apparatus for multiple game gaming is
described in conjunction with one or more specific embodiments. The
invention is defined by the following claims and their full scope
and equivalents.
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