U.S. patent application number 11/181662 was filed with the patent office on 2006-02-16 for method and apparatus for verifying game outcome.
This patent application is currently assigned to IGT. Invention is credited to Binh T. Nguyen, Craig A. Paulsen.
Application Number | 20060035708 11/181662 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31991650 |
Filed Date | 2006-02-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060035708 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nguyen; Binh T. ; et
al. |
February 16, 2006 |
Method and apparatus for verifying game outcome
Abstract
A method is provided for verifying the outcome of a game
presented at a gaming device. The method includes the step of
collecting game play information, including information regarding
each input by a player of the game and all generated game data.
Collected information is stored in a session file pertaining to the
game. In one embodiment, the session file includes captured data
fields. Collected information is associated with these data fields.
The session file may be stored in a memory device associated with
the gaming device. After play of the game, the collected
information may be used to recreate or replay the game, such as for
verifying the outcome of the game. In one embodiment, the gaming
device comprises a player's computer which is in communication with
a remote game server via a communication link, such as including
the Internet.
Inventors: |
Nguyen; Binh T.; (Reno,
NV) ; Paulsen; Craig A.; (Reno, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MARSHALL, GERSTEIN & BORUN LLP
233 S. WACKER DRIVE, SUITE 6300
SEARS TOWER
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Assignee: |
IGT
Reno
NV
|
Family ID: |
31991650 |
Appl. No.: |
11/181662 |
Filed: |
July 13, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10243464 |
Sep 13, 2002 |
6918831 |
|
|
11181662 |
Jul 13, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3234 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3241 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/029 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method of verifying the outcome of a game played on a gaming
machine comprising: collecting data pertaining to events occurring
at said gaming machine associated with the presentation and play of
a game at said machine, said data including one or more inputs by a
player of said gaming machine playing said game; storing said data;
and utilizing said data to replay said game at a later time.
2. The method in accordance with claim 1 including the step of
generating a session file, said session file having a plurality of
captured data fields corresponding to a plurality of data fields,
said step of collecting data comprising the step of determining
data which satisfies one or more of said data fields, and said step
of storing comprises associating said data with the captured data
field associated with said one or more data fields.
3. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein one of said data
fields comprises the identity of said player.
4. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said gaming
machine includes a diagnostic function and said step of utilizing
said data comprises utilizing said diagnostic function to replay
said game at said gaming machine.
5. The method in accordance with claim 1 including the step of
transmitting said data to a remote location.
6. The method in accordance with claim 5 including the step of
storing said data at said remote location.
7. The method in accordance with claim 5 including the step of
providing said information to said player and wherein said
utilizing step comprises said player utilizing said data to replay
said game.
8. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said gaming
machine comprises a computer belonging to said player in
communication with a game server at a remote location.
9. The method in accordance with claim 8 including the step of
transmitting data to be collected from said computer belonging to
said player to said game server.
10. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said gaming
machine comprises a slot machine having one or more rotatable
reels.
11. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said gaming
machine includes at least one video display for presenting game
information.
12. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said inputs by
said player include reading of a player card.
13. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said inputs by
said player comprise one or more inputs selected from the group
consisting of hold, discard, coins in, credits bet, spin, deal and
cash out.
14. A method of confirming the play of a game presented at a gaming
device comprising the steps of: collecting information regarding
one or more inputs by a player; collecting information generated in
response to said one or more inputs by said player resulting in the
presentation of said game; creating a session file, said session
file including a plurality of data fields; associating said
collected information regarding said one or more inputs by said
player and said generated information with said data fields of said
session file; storing said session file and associated collected
information; and recreating said game after said game has been
played, said game recreated using information stored in association
with said session file.
15. The method in accordance with claim 14 including the step of
collecting information regarding the identity of said player and
associating information regarding the identity of said player with
said session file.
16. The method in accordance with claim 14 including the step of
associating collected information regarding one or more games with
said single session file.
17. The method in accordance with claim 14 including the step of
associating time stamp information with said collected information
regarding one or more inputs by said player and said generated
information.
18. The method in accordance with claim 14 wherein said gaming
device comprises a computer belonging to said player in
communication with a game server at a remote location.
19. The method in accordance with claim 15 wherein said step of
collecting information regarding one or more inputs by said player
includes the step of transmitting said information from said
computer belonging to said player to said game server.
20. The method in accordance with claim 14 wherein said generated
information includes one or more generated random numbers used to
define the outcome of said game.
21. The method in accordance with claim 14 wherein said collected
information regarding one or more inputs by said player comprises
data representative of one or more keystrokes or button presses by
said player.
22. The method in accordance with claim 14 wherein said gaming
device comprises a gaming machine having a gaming controller and a
memory device associated with said gaming controller, and said
collecting steps are performed by said controller and said session
file is stored at said memory device.
23. The method in accordance with claim 14 including the step of
transmitting said session file to a remote location and recreating
said game at said remote location.
24. The method in accordance with claim 14 wherein said gaming
device includes a master gaming controller and a player tracking
controller and said collecting steps are performed by said player
tracking controller.
25. The method in accordance with claim 14 wherein said gaming
device is operated by a first party and said collecting steps are
performed by a second party.
26. The method in accordance with claim 25 including the step of
transmitting said collected information to a remote location of
said second party.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to gaming machines, and more
particularly to methods and apparatus for determining the outcome
of a game played on a gaming machine.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A variety of gaming devices currently exist for presenting
games of skill and/or chance to a player. These games are presented
based upon a wager placed by the player and provide the opportunity
for the player to be paid winnings if the outcome of the game is a
particular outcome.
[0003] One particular type of gaming machine is known as a "video"
machine, as the machine includes a video display. Play of the game
involves display of information, such as images of cards or other
symbols by the display. If the outcome of a game which is played is
a winning outcome, then the player may be awarded a winning. These
types of gaming devices are computer controlled, with a controller
generating game information, including image information which is
displayed by the display.
[0004] Unfortunately, circumstances arise when a player may believe
that the outcome of the game is a winning outcome, while the gaming
device indicates the contrary. This may give rise to a dispute
between the player and the game operator, such as a casino or
gaming company.
[0005] A variety of circumstances may arise in which there is a
dispute regarding the outcome of the game. In general, these
disputes are undesirable, since negative publicity may be generated
regarding the game operator's alleged non-payment to the player. On
the other hand, the game operator is only obligated to pay winnings
when the outcome of the game is truly a winning outcome. In some
circumstances, unscrupulous players may actually allege that the
outcome of the game was a winning outcome when it was not at any
time, in an attempt to extort monies from the gaming operator.
[0006] Unfortunately, no means currently exists for accurately
monitoring or verifying the operation of the gaming machine. For
example, the game operator may obtain data regarding the play of
the game from the gaming controller. However, if a malfunction
occurred, the data is itself might be corrupt and only indicate the
malfunction. Other security measures are easily thwarted, by
unscrupulous players. For example, gaming personnel may attempt to
watch various gaming machines, but they can not watch all of the
machines all of the time, and players may attempt to block the view
of the machine if they attempt to tamper with it.
[0007] A means for verifying the outcome or condition of a gaming
machine is desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention comprises methods and apparatus for
verifying the outcome of a game presented at a gaming device. In
one embodiment, the method includes the steps of collecting data
pertaining to the presentation of the game at the gaming device,
the data including one or more inputs by a player of the gaming
machine playing the game; storing the collected data; and utilizing
the data to replay the game at a later time.
[0009] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of
generating a session file, the session file having a plurality of
captured data fields corresponding to a plurality of data fields.
In this embodiment, the step of collecting data comprises
determining data which satisfies one or more of the data fields and
the step of storing comprises associating the data with the
captured data field associated with the one or more data fields.
The data fields may be varied, and include fields such as the
identity of the player, random numbers generated to determine the
outcome of the game, the size of a bet placed by the player, and
others.
[0010] In one embodiment, the gaming device may include a
diagnostic function and the step of utilizing the data may comprise
utilizing the diagnostic function to replay the game at the gaming
device. In another embodiment, the collected data may be
transmitted to a remote location. The remote location may comprise
a laptop or other portable device. The remote location may also be
a remote station, such as a casino backroom. The information may be
used at the portable device or remote location to replay or
recreate the game. In one embodiment, the game may be replayed in
continuous or single stepped modes, in fast forward, rewind, slow
forward, paused, stopped or other modes.
[0011] In one embodiment, the data may be stored at the gaming
device, such as in a memory device. In another embodiment, the
information may also or, in the alternative, be stored at a remote
location. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of
providing the information to the player so that they player may
replay the game, such as for the purpose of analyzing their play
strategy. In one embodiment, the data may be mined by casino or
other entity to determine a player's style and habit for the
purpose of marketing, game selection and other purposes.
[0012] The method may be implemented in a wide variety of
environments. In one embodiment, the method may be implemented at a
gaming machine of a type utilized at a casino. In this embodiment,
the data may be stored at the gaming machine where the game is
presented. In another embodiment, the gaming device may comprise a
computer belonging to a player which is in communication with a
game server or host via a communication link, such as including the
Internet.
[0013] In accordance with the invention data, such as in the form
of a session file, is collected and stored. This information may be
used at a later time to recreate or replay the game which was
played. In one embodiment, the information which is collected and
stored includes information regarding the identity of the player of
the game (such as obtained from a player tracking card or system),
information regarding each and every input by the player (such as
button pushes, keystrokes, arm pulls, bets and the like), and all
information generated by the gaming device or machine (such as
random numbers defining game outcomes, winning payouts and the
like). Using this information, the complete game may be recreated
or replayed, one step at a time. By replaying the game, the outcome
of the game may be verified, a game malfunction may be identified
or the like.
[0014] Further features, and advantages of the present invention
over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed
description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the
attached figures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine comprising
one environment for an apparatus and method of the present
invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustrating a control and monitoring
system for a gaming machine including a data collection device in
accordance with the invention; and
[0017] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustrating a session file in
accordance with the present invention; and
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates another gaming environment for an
apparatus and method of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] In one or more embodiments, the invention comprises a method
of verifying the outcome of a game, and in one embodiment, a gaming
machine which includes at least one gaming machine condition data
collection device. In the following description, numerous specific
details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough
description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however,
to one skilled in the art, that the present 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.
[0020] In general, the present invention comprises a gaming machine
including at least one data collection device configured to collect
data regarding the operation of the gaming machine, and more
particularly, data useful in verifying the outcome of a game played
on the machine.
[0021] One embodiment of the invention is applicable to gaming
machines of the type which are utilized at casinos and similar
establishments. Other embodiments of the invention are applicable
to computers and similar devices which permit a player to play a
game from a remote location, such as over the Internet or other
communication link to a remote server.
[0022] A particular embodiment of the invention which is most
applicable to gaming machines or devices of the type utilized in
casinos will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
Referring to FIG. 1, there is illustrated one embodiment of a
gaming machine 20 in accordance with the present invention. In
general, the gaming machine 20 is adapted to present at least one
game for play to a player. As illustrated, the gaming machine 20
includes a housing 22 which supports and/or houses the various
components of the gaming machine 20.
[0023] In one embodiment, the gaming machine 20 is a "video" type
machine in which game information is displayed to a player. In this
regard, the gaming machine 20 includes a display 28. The display 28
may be of a variety of types, as is known, such as CRT, LCD, plasma
and the like.
[0024] The gaming machine 20 includes a variety of controls and
other features for presenting a game utilizing the display 28. In
one or more embodiments of the invention, the gaming machine 20 is
adapted to present a wager-type game. In this arrangement, a player
is required to place a bet or wager in order to participate in the
game. In the event the outcome of the game is a winning outcome,
then the player may be provided with an award. In one arrangement,
the award may be winnings based upon the amount wagered or bet by
the player.
[0025] In order to accept a wager, the gaming machine 20 may
include a coin acceptor 40 for accepting coins. The gaming machine
20 may also include a bill acceptor or validator 42 for accepting
paper currency. The gaming machine 20 may be provided with other
means for accepting or verifying value, such as a credit card
reader.
[0026] In one embodiment, the gaming machine 20 may include a card
reader 44 for reading credit cards and/or player tracking cards. A
keypad 46 or other input device may also be provided which permits
a player to enter information, such as player identification
information such as a password or PIN. Such player tracking
devices, including various input devices which may be employed are
well known.
[0027] The gaming machine 20 may include a variety of player input
devices. For example, push-type buttons or other input accepting
elements may be provided. A player may utilize these buttons to
place bets, initiate games and the like. Such input devices and the
their operation is well known.
[0028] In one embodiment of the game a player may be awarded a
prize or payout if the outcome of the game comprises a
predetermined winning outcome. In one embodiment, the award may be
paid in coins, such as to a coin tray 48. In other embodiments, the
award may be paid as a ticket, electronically indicated credit or
the like.
[0029] It should be understood that the gaming machine 20 may be
adapted to present one or more of a wide variety of games.
Depending upon the game presented, the configuration of the machine
may vary.
[0030] In one embodiment, a controller (not illustrated) is used to
control the display 28, including the information displayed
thereon. The controller may be a computing device which is located
at the gaming machine 20, remote from the gaming machine, or
include components both at the gaming machine and remote from the
gaming machine. The controller is preferably arranged to generate
game data, such as data which is used by the display 28 to display
information. The generated data, including in response to player
inputs, determines the outcomes of games.
[0031] As indicated, in accordance with the invention, the gaming
machine 20 includes at least one data collection device. In one
embodiment, the data collection device comprises a means for
verifying the outcome of a game played on the gaming machine 20. In
a preferred embodiment of the invention, this means is independent
of the gaming controller. Preferably, the means comprise a memory
for storing game play information.
[0032] One embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 2. As
illustrated, the gaming machine 20 includes a controller 60. The
controller 60 may have a wide variety of configurations. In one
embodiment, the controller 60 includes a CPU 62 which is capable of
executing computer readable program code.
[0033] The controller 60 includes a bus 64. The bus may be of a
variety of types. In one embodiment, the bus is a bi-directional
system bus which may contain, for example, thirty-two address lines
for addressing a video memory or main memory. The bus may
preferably also include a thirty-two or sixty-four bit data bus for
transferring data between the components associated with the bus.
Alternatively, multiplex data/address lines may be used instead of
separate data and address lines.
[0034] The controller 60 may include a memory 66. The memory 66 may
a variety of devices, including RAM, EEPROM or other flash memory.
Preferably, the memory 66 is rewriteable. The memory 66 is
configured to store data, and more preferably computer code for
execution by the CPU 62.
[0035] The CPU 62 and memory 66 are coupled to the bus 64. This
coupling permits data to be transferred between the devices.
[0036] In one embodiment, various peripherals of the gaming machine
20 are also connected to the bus 64. For example, the coin acceptor
40, bill validator 42 and other devices of the gaming machine,
including the display 28, are coupled to the bus 66. This permits,
for example, control instructions to be provided by the controller
60 to the peripheral, and for the output of the peripheral to be
provided to the controller 60. For example, the input of a player's
money is indicated by the bill validator 42 to the CPU 62, which
may then cause the display 28 to display information regarding the
number of credits credited to the player.
[0037] The data collection device may comprise a memory device 70,
such as RAM, EEPROM or other flash memory which is also associated
with the bus 66. The data collection device may also comprise a
mass storage media such as a disk drive (semiconductor or magnetic
type), pVD, CD or other device now known or later developed. In
general, the memory device 70 is configured to store data regarding
events associated with the play of a game at the gaming machine,
including game information generated by the CPU 62 and information
input to the controller 60 from the peripheral devices.
[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the information which is stored
is data which may be used to re-create or generate the game play
occurring at the gaming machine. In one embodiment, the information
comprises data stored in a session file. One embodiment of such a
file is illustrated in FIG. 3. As illustrated, the session file 94
includes a plurality of defined data fields 96 and a plurality of
captured data fields 98.
[0039] The particular data fields 96 may vary. As illustrated, data
fields 96 may include, but are not limited to, password, game
selected, size of bet, number of lines bet, denomination of bet
($0.05, $0.25, etc.), buttons pushed, coins paid, and random
numbers generated (RNG). In a preferred embodiment, time of event
information is associated with each data event. The time of event
information may comprise a time stamp 99 comprising date and/or
time information. In one embodiment, the data fields 96 may include
data regarding other events, such as security events comprising
opening of a gaming machine door, a tilt or other malfunction or
other system activities/anomalies. In general, the data fields
which are selected preferably comprise fields which, when filled,
are useful in recreating the operation of the gaming machine. The
particular titles of the data fields 96 may also vary.
[0040] Although not illustrated, the gaming machine 20 may be
configured to present a secondary or bonus game or event. For
example, upon receiving a particular winning outcome playing a main
game of slots, a bonus wheels may be activated. This bonus wheel
may spin and then stop, the stopping position indicating a bonus
winning amount to which the player is entitled. Other types of
secondary or bonus games and events are known, including those
which utilize video displays or other mechanical or
electromechanical devices.
[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, the data fields 96 may
thus include information regarding such a secondary or bonus
event/game. Such data fields may include an internally generated
bonus result (when the result of the bonus game or event is
generated at the gaming machine) or an externally generated bonus
result (such as when the result of the bonus game is generated at a
remote location, such as a remote server, and transmitted to the
gaming machine). These data fields may be further broken down into
fields such as RNG for bonus result and bonus value (i.e. amount of
award). Of course, other data fields may be utilized to track and
store information regarding these secondary or bonus games/events,
depending on the game or event and how it is implemented.
[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the information
which is stored is associated with a particular player. In this
manner, the outcome of a game or other event may be verified with
respect to the player of the gaming machine when the event
occurred. In one embodiment, as described above, the identity of
the player may be provided by a player tracking card or the like,
such as in association with a player rewards program. As described
in greater detail below, in some instances the gaming machine or
device may provide for other input of player identification
information, such as a login name and password. In either event, in
one embodiment of the invention the session file may include a data
field 96 such as "login name" which may have an associated captured
data field 98.
[0043] During operation of the gaming machine 20, generated and/or
input data is associated with the data fields 96 by entry into the
captured data fields 98. For example, when a player utilizes their
player tracking card at the gaming machine 20, the player's name
may be input into the captured data field 98 corresponding to the
data field 96 "login name." If the player does not have a player
card, data is still preferably captured and recorded in an
anonymous mode. In this mode, the identity of the player is not
specifically known, but the game may be identified by a session
number and a time stamp.
[0044] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the memory
device 70 stores the information which represents game play
activities at the gaming machine. As indicated, this information
may be stored in the form of a session file 94. A session file 94
may be generated and stored regarding each game played at the
gaming machine. In this configuration, multiple session files 94
are generated and stored. In another embodiment, a session file 94
is generated for each user login, and all games played by the
player during that session are stored in the single session
file.
[0045] Preferably, the stored information can be used to verify
activities occurring at the gaming machine including, if desired,
the outcome of a particular game. In one embodiment, the session
file information may be utilized by a simulator or simulation
program to recreate game play exactly as it occurred at the gaming
machine 20. In one embodiment, this simulation program may be
executed at the gaming machine 20 itself. For example, in the event
of a dispute regarding the outcome of a particular game, gaming
personnel may travel to the gaming machine 20 and place the gaming
machine 20 in a "verification" mode. The gaming machine 20 may be
caused to display the available session files. If the game outcome
which is in question is the last game, then the last session file
may be selected. The simulation program may then cause the gaming
machine to display the game as it was played by the player,
including selections made by the player and the outcome of the
game. In another embodiment of the invention, the data or
information may be used remotely. Additional features and aspects
of the invention are detailed below.
[0046] In one or more embodiments of the invention, the memory
device 70 is in communication at one or more times with one or more
outside devices via a network or other communication path, such as
a security/monitoring network 74. In general, in such an
arrangement, data stored by the memory device 70 may be transmitted
to a remote location, such as for storage and/or use. In addition,
control instructions may be provided to the memory device 70 from
the remote location.
[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the security network 74 includes
at least one remotely located control station 76. This station may
be located in a secure area of a casino. As illustrated, the
control station 76 includes a main controller/processor 78.
[0048] In one or more embodiments, the security/monitoring network
74 may be a part of another network or comprise any network. For
example, the gaming machine 20 may be associated with a player
tracking or reward system network for monitoring play data from a
remote location. The security/monitoring network 74 may be
associated with or comprise one or more portions of such a network.
The security/monitoring network 74 may be associated with other
devices/networks as well. For example, a portion of the
security/monitoring network 74 may include an existing wide area
progressive or casino accounting system/network. In this manner,
additional wiring or network devices are reduced or eliminated.
[0049] In one embodiment, the control station 76 includes a
processor 80 for utilizing the data provided. For example, the
processor 80 may be configured to execute the script information to
re-generate or re-create the game play which occurred at the gaming
machine. In one embodiment, the control station 76 may include a
monitor (not shown) for displaying re-generated game play
information. The control station 76 may also include one or more
memory devices, including mass storage devices such as hard drives,
for storing information transmitted from the memory device 70.
[0050] The network 74 includes a communications link provided
between the memory device 70 and the control station 76. This link
may be a wired or wireless communication link. The
protocol/architecture of the communications link, including
interfaces associated with the camera controller 70 and control
station 76 may be of a variety of types. For example, if the link
is a wireless link, the protocol/architecture may be Bluetooth or
IEEE 802.1.times.. For wired links, the protocol/architecture may
be USB, RS-485, IEEE-1394 (Firewire.RTM.), Ethernet, or TCP/IP. In
one embodiment, the controller 60 includes a communications
interface 82 associated with the bus 64. The communication link is
established with the memory device 70 through the bus 64 and
communications interface 82.
[0051] As noted above, the link may be associated with or provided
through another network. For example, in another embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 2, game data may be generated at a remote host
or game server 90. The game data may be transmitted over a game
network 92. The remote station 76 may be in communication with the
game server 90. In this embodiment, stored script or other data may
be transmitted from the memory device 70 over the game network 92
to the remote station 76.
[0052] The link may be provided through other networks, such as a
player tracking network with which the gaming machine is
associated. As one example, the gaming machine 20 may include a
player tracking device. The player tracking device may be a
"stand-alone" or "add-on" type device which may be used with a
variety of gaming machines. In one embodiment, the player tracking
device may include a housing for supporting one or more elements.
The player tracking device may include a card reader controlled by
a controller. In one embodiment, the memory device 70 may be in
communication with, including being controlled by, the controller
of the player tracking device. In one embodiment, the memory device
70 may actually be part of the player tracking device itself, with
data provided by the gaming machine controller 60 to the player
tracking device.
[0053] The memory device may be associated with additional or other
peripheral devices of the gaming machine. For example, one or more
security data collection devices may be associated with a credit
card reader, bill validator, cash box or the like.
[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the memory
device 70 is controlled by the CPU 62 of the gaming controller 60.
For example, the CPU 62 may execute code which causes data to be
transmitted and stored in the memory device 70 when the data is
determined to meet or comprise a particular desired data field.
[0055] In another embodiment of the invention, the memory device 70
may be controlled from a remote location. For example, the remote
game server 90 may be configured to "screen" information and when
information is determined to meet particular criteria, such as a
particular data field, store that information at the memory device
70.
[0056] One or more methods of using the memory device 70 or other
data collection device(s) associated with a gaming machine will now
be described. In accordance with the method generally, the memory
device 70 is configured to store information regarding activities
occurring at the gaming machine.
[0057] In one embodiment, a controller, such as the CPU 62 of the
gaming controller 60 or the remote game server 90, is configured to
store information at the memory device 70. In other embodiments, a
remote controller or a controller other than the main gaming
controller 60 may effect the collection of the information. For
example, a controller associated with a player tracking device of
the gaming machine or a controller located remote from the machine
may be configured to cause the storage/collection of
information.
[0058] In one embodiment, the memory device 70 is arranged to
collect game information at specific times or in response to
specific events. Control may be effectuated by the controller 60,
or via an outside device, as described above. In general, the
memory device 70 may be configured to store data which satisfies
any data field of a session file. A session file may be generated
in response to any of a variety of activities, such as the
depression of the "spin" or "play" button by the player which
effects the start of a game, by a player inserting a player card
into the gaming machine, or other actions.
[0059] In one embodiment, the operation of the memory device 70 may
be controlled from the remote station 76. For example, security
personnel may send commands from the remote station 76 via the
network 74 to the controller 60. The controller 60 may then execute
these commands. The commands may cause, for example, the memory
device 70 to forward data, such as a session file 94, to the remote
station 76. As one example, a governmental agency such as a gaming
control board may utilize the system to collect the game play data
and store it at a remote location.
[0060] In one embodiment, the information may be loaded onto a
laptop or portable device. For example, in the event of a dispute
regarding the outcome of a game, malfunction or for any other
reason, a technician may travel to the gaming machine with a
portable device. The session file information may be downloaded to
the device, such as via a wired or wireless communication link. The
session file may then be used, such as in a "replay" of the game or
otherwise as described herein. In one embodiment, for example, the
"replay" of the game may be effected on such a device when the
gaming machine is an electromechanical device such as a slot
machine. In such a configuration, the portable device may be
configured to video-simulate the reels of the gaming machine, with
the session file used to replay the game, including the spinning of
the reels and their stopped positions.
[0061] As will be appreciated, over time, the amount of stored
information would become excessively large, resulting in the need
for a very large memory or other information storage device
associated with the gaming machine. Thus, in one embodiment of the
invention, stored information is over-written after a predetermined
period of time or after a predetermined amount of information is
stored, unless a predetermined event occurs. For example, the
memory device 70 may be arranged to store a certain volume of
information. Once the memory device 70 is full, the oldest data may
be overwritten by newer data. In one embodiment, this may comprise
the overwriting of older session files with newer session
files.
[0062] As will be appreciated, depending upon the configuration or
nature of the data or communication links provided, the bandwidth
or total volume of information which may be transmitted over the
link may be limited. In that event, it may be desirable to not have
the collected security data or information continuously transmitted
to the remote station. In one embodiment, the data or information
may be transmitted upon request, such as described above upon a
signal from the control station 76.
[0063] In another embodiment, if a "trigger" event occurs, then
collected data is automatically transmitted to the control station
76. For example, in one embodiment, such a trigger event may
comprise a signal from a gaming machine controller 90 to the remote
station 76 of the award of a very large jackpot or a game machine
malfunction. In one embodiment, each gaming machine controller 90
is arranged to send a signal representative of certain events,
along with gaming machine identification information. In one
embodiment, the remote station 76 is arranged to receive signals
from the gaming machine controller 90, such as through a
communication interface with the game machine network 92.
[0064] It will be appreciated that a wide variety of systems and
devices may be utilized to accomplish the method(s).
[0065] It will be appreciated that the present invention may be
applied to a wide variety of gaming environments. FIG. 4
illustrates another gaming environment. As illustrated, a host or
server 100 and a remote gaming device 102 are connected by a
communication link 104. In one embodiment, the host or server 100
may comprise a game server. The remote gaming device 102 may
comprise, for example, a player's home computer. The communication
link 104 may comprise a dedicated link, or be part of a packet
switched network or otherwise. The link 104 may comprise wired
links, wireless links or combinations thereof. In one embodiment,
the link 104 may include the Internet.
[0066] In this embodiment, inputs by the player at their remote
computer are stored at the server 100 in a session file, as well as
information generated at the server 100. Thus, in like fashion to
that detailed above, a session file is generated which may be used
to entirely re-create game play, including the outcome of a
particular game. A particular aspect of this embodiment of the
invention is that the multiple players and multiple games may
readily be tracked and stored for replay, verification and the
like, all from a single, central location.
[0067] In this configuration, a wide variety of information may be
collected at the remote computer. This information may include
generated random numbers used to determine the outcome of a game,
and player's keyboard strokes or other inputs. This information may
be collected and then transmitted to the remote server, or
transmitted immediately and then collected at the remote
server.
[0068] The invention has many advantages. A primary advantage to
the invention is that information is stored which can be used to
determine the outcome of a game or other gaming-related event,
whether occurring at a stand-alone type gaming machine, a gaming
machine which is part of a network, or as described above, a game
played over a network between two computing devices. The
information may be used for a variety of purposes, and particularly
to verify a particular game outcome.
[0069] In one embodiment, the invention provides for the "replay"
of the play of a particular game. As indicated, in one embodiment,
in order to verify the outcome of a game, session file information
may be used to actually re-create the play of the game. This may be
used to resolve a dispute with a player or determine the source of
a game malfunction or the like. One advantage of the invention is
that visual verification of the outcome is provided by such a
replay.
[0070] The data of the invention may be used to replay or recreate
the game in various modes. For example, a game may be replayed in a
real-time continuous mode. The game may also be replayed in a
frame-by-frame or per action mode. Various replay features such
fast forward, slow forward, rewind, pause and stop may be provided.
These and other features may be used to analyze/review the game
information.
[0071] In one embodiment of the invention, the information may be
provided to a player. For example, a player who is a member or a
player slot or other rewards program of a casino may be provided
with the opportunity to utilize the information to "replay" their
previous games. This information may be helpful, for example, to a
player attempting to improve their card play or the like.
[0072] One aspect of the invention is that information is obtained
and stored which may be used for a variety of purposes other than
"replay" or game verification. For example, session file
information may be uploaded to a player tracking system for use in
analyzing a player's play habits, including specific play
strategies. Searches may be conducted through the information, or
the information aggregated or otherwise manipulated. A casino may
use this information, for example, to make selections regarding
gaming machines to locate in the casino, or for directing marketing
to the player.
[0073] In this regard, as one aspect of the invention, the
information which is stored may be mapped or associated with a
particular player. As indicated, in one embodiment, the stored
information may include player identification information. In this
manner, the identity of the player of a particular game may be
verified. For example, in the case of a large jackpot, not only may
the outcome of the game be verified, but so may be the identity of
the player who is attempting to collect the jackpot against the
identity of the player who was identified as the player of the
game.
[0074] A particular advantage of the invention is that these
features are provide while only a small amount of information is
stored. For example, in the case of a video-type machine, screen
information might be stored to verify the displayed outcome of a
game. Assuming only VGA screen display settings, a few seconds of
such video data might comprise 30-40 Mb of data. The storage of
such information would be prohibitive from a data storage
perspective, and still does not provide the features of the
invention.
[0075] In the present invention, an entire session file might be
only 10b. Thus, using only a small memory device, multiple session
files may be stored.
[0076] The session information may be stored in a format which is
platform independent. In this manner, the session information may
be used at a wide variety of devices, or a single device may
utilize session information from a wide variety of machines.
[0077] As indicated above, in a preferred embodiment, each action
by a player and each action by the gaming machine (including
keystrokes, random number generator results, etc.) which is
associated with the play of the game is tracked and stored. As
indicated, this permits not only verification of the outcome of a
particular game, but also allows for verification of each and every
event or step during the sequence of game play. For example, the
player's selection of cards to be held may be verified, as well as
the final hand after replacement cards have been dealt in a game of
video poker. In the case of a game malfunction, each and every step
leading up to the malfunction may be reviewed to aid in determining
the cause of the malfunction.
[0078] It will be understood that the above described arrangements
of apparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative of
applications of the principles of this invention and many other
embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
Features of the invention described herein may be provided alone or
in any combination.
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