U.S. patent application number 11/297692 was filed with the patent office on 2007-06-14 for networked video game wagering with player-initiated verification of wager outcomes.
Invention is credited to Albert Edwin IV Betteridge.
Application Number | 20070135208 11/297692 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38123497 |
Filed Date | 2007-06-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070135208 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Betteridge; Albert Edwin
IV |
June 14, 2007 |
Networked video game wagering with player-initiated verification of
wager outcomes
Abstract
Embodiments of a wagering system are provided. The wagering
system may include a server configured for processing at least one
wager on a video game to be played by players on a multiplayer
gaming network, and at least one database operatively associated
with the server, the database being configured for storing
information related to the video game wager. The server may be
configured to operate independently of the multiplayer gaming
network and may include a confirmation system configured to receive
confirmation of the outcome of the video game wager from the
players.
Inventors: |
Betteridge; Albert Edwin IV;
(Greenwich, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KIRKPATRICK & LOCKHART PRESTON GATES ELLIS LLP
535 SMITHFIELD STREET
PITTSBURGH
PA
15222
US
|
Family ID: |
38123497 |
Appl. No.: |
11/297692 |
Filed: |
December 8, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 ; 463/42;
463/43 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3295 20130101; G07F 17/3288 20130101; G07F 17/3276
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/025 ;
463/042; 463/043 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A wagering system comprising: a server configured for processing
at least one wager on a video game match to be played by players on
a multiplayer gaming network; at least one database operatively
associated with the server, the database being configured for
storing information related to the video game wager; the server
being configured to operate independently of the multiplayer gaming
network; and, the server including a confirmation system configured
to receive a confirmation of the outcome of the video game wager
from at least one of the players.
2. The wagering system of claim 1, wherein the server includes a
web server.
3. The wagering system of claim 2, wherein the web server includes
at least one web site having at least one page configured for
receiving wagering information.
4. The wagering system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the web
site pages is configured to allow the players to select from among
a set of video games that can be played for wagers.
5. The wagering system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the web
site pages is configured to allow the players to store a wager in
association with at least one video game.
6. The wagering system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the web
site pages is configured to allow the players to accept a wager in
association with at least one video game.
7. The wagering system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the web
site pages includes multiple video game links separated into
multiple sections according to a factor selected from the group
consisting of a multiplayer gaming network associated with the
video game, a type of video game, and a gaming mode.
8. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
wager account stored in the database, the wager account being
associated with a credit balance of at least one of the
players.
9. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
player profile stored on the database.
10. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising the server
being configured to transfer a wager amount based on the outcome of
the played video game.
11. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising a competency
structure operatively associated with the server, the competency
structure being configured for maintaining at least one skill level
of at least one of the players.
12. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising the database
being configured to store multiple wagers for a particular video
game or for multiple video games.
13. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising the database
being configured to permit removal of an unaccepted, stored
wager.
14. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising the server
being configured to automatically communicate to players that they
should compete upon determining compatibility of wagers.
15. The wagering system of claim 14, wherein determining
compatibility includes comparing skill levels associated with the
players.
16. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising a ratings
system operatively associated with the server, the ratings system
being configured to adjust a rating of at least one player.
17. The wagering system of claim 1, wherein the video game includes
a video game that can be played by multiple players as a team.
18. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising the
confirmation system being configured to award a prize to the
winning player upon receiving the same confirmation of the wager
outcome from both players.
19. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising a ratings
system operatively associated with the server, the ratings system
being configured for adjusting a rating of the players based on
communication of the wager outcome using the confirmation
system.
20. The wagering system of claim 19, further comprising the ratings
system being configured to display at least one list of player
rankings in association with ratings information stored in the
ratings system.
21. The wagering system of claim 19, further comprising the ratings
system being configured to not allow a player to accept a wager if
a rating of the player falls below a threshold level.
22. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising a dispute
settlement system operatively associated with the server, the
dispute settlement system being configured to help to determine a
wager outcome if the confirmation system receives confirmation of
the wager outcome from neither player or only one player.
23. The wagering system of claim 1, further comprising a dispute
settlement system operatively associated with the server, the
dispute settlement system being configured for determining a wager
outcome if the confirmation system receives a different
confirmation of the wager outcome from each player.
24. The wagering system of claim 1, wherein the server is
accessible through a game console.
25. The wagering system of claim 1, wherein the server is
accessible through a cable network connection.
26. The wagering system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the
websites is accessible through a game console.
27. The wagering system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the
websites is accessible through a cable network connection.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to processing wagers
in association with networked video game play.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The technological landscape for online multiplayer video
gaming is rapidly evolving into exciting new areas. Online video
game play through multiplayer gaming networks provides an
entertaining experience by offering players the opportunity to play
against multiple live opponents, rather than merely against a
computer-controlled opponent, in a virtual video game world. There
are presently many multiplayer gaming networks available that allow
players to compete in video games against each other, and at least
some of these networks have the capability to permit interaction
among players on a global scale.
[0003] In view of this emerging technological landscape, what are
needed are more effective ways to further enhance the excitement
and entertainment value of the online video gaming experience,
especially with regard to video games played on multiplayer gaming
networks.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0004] The utility of the embodiments of the invention will be
readily appreciated and understood from consideration of the
following description of the embodiments of the invention when
viewed in connection with the accompanying drawings.
[0005] FIG. 1 includes a system architecture diagram illustrating
various exemplary aspects of a wagering system configured in
accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0006] FIG. 2A includes a process flow diagram illustrating certain
aspects of wagering processes that may be conducted in accordance
with embodiments of the invention;
[0007] FIG. 2B includes a process flow diagram illustrating certain
aspects of wagering processes that may be conducted in accordance
with embodiments of the invention; and,
[0008] FIGS. 3 through 25 illustrate examples of screen displays
that may be provided in accordance with wagering system embodiments
of the invention.
DESCRIPTION
[0009] As applied herein, a "wager" or "wagering" involves players
staking something of value (e.g., money) for an opportunity to win
something of value (e.g., a prize) subject to the outcome of an
event (e.g., a video game contest between players), wherein the
outcome of the event is predominantly determined by the skill of
the players involved in the event and not a chance occurrence. In
comparison, a "bet" or "gambling" involves staking something of
value (e.g., money) for a chance to win something of value (e.g., a
prize) subject predominantly to the outcome of an event (e.g., a
lottery drawing) which is predominantly a chance occurrence.
[0010] A "multiplayer gaming network" or "gaming network" includes
any networked medium that permits players to engage in a video
game, computer system game, or any other electronic gaming activity
between/among the players. One example of a "multiplayer gaming
network" suitable for use with various embodiments of the present
invention is the "Xbox Live" gaming network operatively associated
with the "Xbox" gaming system (Microsoft Corporation).
[0011] A "video game" includes any electronically executed game
that can be played over a multiplayer gaming network in accordance
with one or more embodiments of the invention. Examples of video
games include, without limitation, console-based games such as
those played on the "Xbox" gaming system, personal computer ("PC")
games, and a variety of other types of electronic games.
[0012] A "game console" includes any device or apparatus that can
be configured for playing one or more video games on a multiplayer
gaming network. Examples of "game consoles" may include, without
limitation, video gaming system consoles, computer systems,
personal data assistants (PDAs), wireless telephones, or any other
device that can be configured for use as a game console in
accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention described
herein. In another example, cable controllers configured for access
to cable network media may include interactive features that users
can employ as game consoles, for example, to practice various
aspects of the invention described herein.
[0013] The term "communication media" includes any medium capable
of receiving data communications in accordance with various
embodiments of the invention such as, without limitation, network
connections (e.g., an intranet, extranet, or the Internet),
wireless data networks, wire line data networks, satellite
networks, or cable network connections.
[0014] Unless otherwise noted or readily evident from the context
as applied herein, the term "player" refers to players
participating on a multiplayer gaming network who may also be
"users" of a wagering system provided in accordance with the
present invention. The terms "player" and "user" sometimes may be
used interchangeably herein.
[0015] With reference to FIG. 1, general aspects of an exemplary
wagering system architecture that may be provided in accordance
with various embodiments of the invention are illustrated. A
wagering system 102 includes a server 102A configured to receive
and process wagers that can be placed and settled in association
with networked video game match play. The server 102A may be a web
server, for example, and may be operatively associated with one or
more wager databases 102B or other like storage media configured
for storing a variety of wagering related information. The server
102A may host one or more web sites 102C including various pages or
screen displays that facilitate collection, analysis and processing
of wagering information and/or other data communicated to/from the
wagering system 102. For example, information may be communicated
to the wagering system 102 from various players 112, 114, 116 using
multiple game consoles 106, 108, 110 (respectively), to play video
games on a multiplayer gaming network 104. In various embodiments,
the players 112, 114, 116 may also be users with respect to
accessing and using various features of the wagering system
102.
[0016] In general, the wagering system 102 functions to allow the
players 112, 114, 116 to select from among a diverse set of video
games that can be played for wagers; to permit the players 112,
114, 116 to store wagers; to accept the wager of an opponent with
whom they would like to compete; to remove or modify unaccepted
wagers; as well as to perform various other functions. The wagering
system 102 may not be configured to facilitate actual video game
play between/among the players 112, 114, 116. Rather, the software
that permits communication and interaction between/among the game
consoles 106, 108, 110 during video game play can be executed by
the multiplayer gaming network 104. The wagering system 102 may
thus be configured to operate independently of the multiplayer
gaming network 104; and, the game consoles 106, 108, 110 may
interact with each other on the multiplayer gaming network 104 to
conduct video game play. The dotted line 118 is intended to
represent an association, without a direct connection or
communication, between the independently operative functions of the
wagering system 102 and the multiplayer gaming network 104.
[0017] As described hereinafter in more detail, the wagering system
102 provides a variety of functions: to permit players 112, 114,
116 to register and maintain wager accounts 102D; to store details
of player 112, 114, 116 profiles; to store payment information; to
facilitate competition with other players 112, 114, 116 who also
wish to wager in a variety of video games; to confirm outcomes of
video game matches with a confirmation system 102E; to apply
ratings to users with a ratings system 102F to reflect the conduct
of users in their interactions with the wagering system 102 and
other users; to transfer an amount indicative of the wager at the
conclusion of a head-to-head video game match, for example; to
store outcomes of played video games, including a competency
structure 102G that tracks and maintains the skill levels of
players 112, 114, 116 with respect to various video games; to
settle disputes between players 112, 114, 116 associated with wager
outcomes by employing a dispute settlement system 102H; and/or
other functions.
[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, one or more communication media 120 may
be provided to enable communications between one or more of the
game consoles 106, 108, 110 and the wagering system 102. Also one
or more access devices 122 may be employed by the players 112, 114,
116 or other users to communicate with the wagering system 102, for
example, through one or more of the communication media 120.
Examples of access devices 122 include, without limitation,
computer systems, personal data assistants (PDA's), telephones (of
wireless or wireline variety), and/or any other access device
suitable for accessing the functions of the wagering system
102.
[0019] Prior to entering into video game match play for wagers,
players may be required to register as users with the wagering
system 102. Players may register in a variety of manners. For
instance, a visitor home page 302 may include a registration link
304 to direct new users to a registration page 502 where they may
register, and a conventional login area 306 wherein a member can
enter his or her username and password to access his or her account
information with the wagering system 102. Otherwise, visitors or
members who have not yet logged into their accounts may be prompted
to register or log into their accounts, if they attempt to engage
in wagering activity within one or more web sites 102C of the
wagering system 102. The player may be presented with a prompt 404
as shown in the screen display 402 of FIG. 4 that permits entry of
login information (e.g., username and password information) to
access the wagering system 102, and/or permits a user to access the
registration page 502. In this manner, it can be seen that
visitors, as well as members who have not yet logged in, are able
to view the same wagering activity on the web site 102C as members
who had logged into their account, although they may not be able to
wager themselves until they login or register.
[0020] In order to register at step 202 and gain access to the
wagering system 102, new users may be presented with the
registration page 502 shown in the screen display of FIG. 5. On the
registration page 502, new users may enter various name and contact
information, as well as a multiplayer gaming network identification
504 that the user employs when playing video games on the
multiplayer gaming network 104. New users may also enter desired
username 506 and password 508 information to permit account access
on the wagering system 102. Data collected on the registration page
502 may be stored in the wager database 102B of the wagering system
102.
[0021] In association with registration, new users may be directed
to a "deposit options" page 602, as illustrated by the screen
display of FIG. 6, to select or edit deposit options at step 204.
The "deposit options" page 602 permits the user to select a payment
method 604 for establishing a wager account 102D with the wagering
system 102. Users may be able to deposit funds in a service account
using a credit card, bank transfer, or through a variety of payment
processors 124 (examples of which are listed in the payment method
604 section) that provide payment processing services to the
wagering system 102. The payment processors 124 can facilitate the
transfer of funds to/from the wager account 102D of the user. To
load credit into a wager account 102D, for example, a user may
transfer money into the wagering system 102 by using one or more
accounts managed for the user by the payment processor 124 and/or
by using a credit card or bank transfer. Once established, the
wager account 102D may be employed by the wagering system 102 to
credit or debit wager amounts for the user in connection with
wagering to be settled following video game play (i.e., wins or
losses) on the multiplayer gaming network 104, for example.
[0022] Once a registered account is accessed by a previously
registered user or a new user at step 206, a member home page 702
as seen in the screen display of FIG. 7 may be displayed by the
wagering system 102. The member home page 702, like the visitor
home page 302, includes, for example, links 704 to the most popular
wager pages, links 706 to "featured wager pages" that the service
may want to highlight, as well as links 708 to various pages that
display player rankings based on competition for a wager in a
particular game and/or overall competition on the wagering system
102.
[0023] Various screen displays presented by the web sites 102C,
such as the member home page 702, may include a toolbar 710 of
links positioned horizontally across the screen display as shown.
The links in the toolbar 710 may include a "home page" link 710A to
access the member home page 702, a "terms and conditions" link 710B
to display terms and conditions of using the wagering system 102,
and an "instructions" link 710C to access written instructions
and/or, for example, a visual demonstration, explaining how the
service operates. Various screen displays presented by the web site
102C may also include a toolbar 712 of links positioned vertically
across the screen display, as shown on the member home page 702,
for example. The toolbar 712 may include links for a variety of
video games on which a user may place a wager and play against
another player on the multiplayer gaming network 104. The video
game links on the toolbar 712 may be separated into distinct
sections according to a number of factors including the multiplayer
gaming network 104 associated with the video game and the type of
video game (e.g., sports, fighting, shooter, etc.). For instance,
there could be a section devoted to "Xbox" sports games or
"Playstation" (Sony Corporation) fighting games. In addition, the
toolbar 712 may be configured to display only those links to video
games which are compatible for play with the particular game
console 106, 108, 110 of the user (e.g., links for "Playstation"
games only). Lastly, each video game link may allow users to access
a pull-down menu 806 of sub-links related to a game 804, as shown
in the screen display 802 of FIG. 8, for example. This allows a
user to access wager pages for different game modes, as well as
pages displaying user rankings 904 related to wagering on a game,
as shown in the screen display 902 of FIG. 9, for example.
[0024] Various screen displays presented by the wagering system 102
may also include a vertically positioned toolbar 714 of links as
shown, for example, on the member home page 702 as shown in the
screen display of FIG. 7. The links on the toolbar 714 may allow
users to access functions and processes relevant to the management
of the wager account 102D.
[0025] For example, a "confirm outcome" link 714A may allow users
to access a page on which they can confirm the outcome of wagers,
which were entered into using the wagering system 102 and competed
for on the multiplayer gaming network 104. An example of a "confirm
outcome" page 1002 is shown in the screen display of FIG. 10. In
addition, an "account statement" link 714B may allow access to
pages that display wager account 102D statements and allow users to
modify contact/password information, as well as to register with
the wagering system 102 for other multiplayer networks, for
example, on which they compete. An example of an "account
statement" page 1102 is seen in the screen display of FIG. 11. A
"deposit money" link 714C provides navigation to the "deposit
options" page 602 to permit users to add credit to their wager
accounts 102D. A "withdraw money" link 714D can direct users to a
function or page that facilitates withdrawal of an amount of the
credit balance in the wager account 102D not otherwise needed to
cover an outstanding wager, or the largest of multiple outstanding
wagers, stored with the wagering system 102. An example of a
"withdrawal options" page 1202 is illustrated in the screen display
of FIG. 12. A "betting history" link 714E can direct users to a
"betting history" page 1302 (an example of which is presented in
the screen display of FIG. 13), which displays historical data for
wager amounts stored by the user for various video games. A "player
profile" link 714F may direct users to a function or page that
summarizes a user's skill levels competing in games and/or game
modes for a wager; records play for each game and/or game modes for
a wager; and/or, records profit and loss information associated
with playing games and/or game modes for a wager. An example of a
"player profile" page 1402 is shown in the screen display of FIG.
14.
[0026] Also, on the toolbar 714, users may be presented with a
"Stored Wagers" section 714G that includes a list of outstanding,
stored wagers for the user on the database 102B of the wagering
system 102. For each wager, a button 714H, 714I or other function
can be provided that allows for the removal of the wagers from the
database 102B. It can be appreciated that the number of wagers in
the "Stored Wagers" section 714G varies depending on the number of
wagers stored by the user. If a user does not have any wagers
stored, then a "None" designation may be presented in the "Stored
Wagers" section 714G.
[0027] At step 208, the user may select a video game for which the
user wants to review, store or accept a wager. Selecting the
one-on-one football link (e.g. "1-on-1") on the pull-down menu 806,
for example, directs the user to the wager page 1502 as shown in
the screen display of FIG. 15. In general, the wager page 1502 may
be substantially representative of the characteristics of all wager
pages that may be provided for different video games in accordance
with embodiments of the invention. As shown, the wager page 1502
includes a list of wagers 1504 that the players 112, 114, 116 have
stored on the wagering system 102 for a particular video game. The
list 1504 may include the username 1506 of each player 112, 114,
116 who stored a wager; the user rating 1508 of each player 112,
114, 116; the skill level 1510 of each player 112, 114, 116;
and/or, a wager amount 1512 associated with each wager. On the
wager page 1502, the user may accept a particular stored wager with
the intent of playing the video game for the wager amount 1512. In
addition, the wager page 1502 may include a "store wager" option
1514 that allows users to add wagers to the list of wagers 1504 by
inputting wager amounts 1512. In various embodiments, the wagering
system 102 may refuse to accept wager amounts less than a
predetermined minimum level or greater than a predetermined maximum
level. Once the "store wager" option 1514 is selected, a "wager
form" 1602 shown in the screen display of FIG. 16 may be presented
to the user with a wager amount field 1604 that permits entry of
the wager amount 1512. If the user attempts to store a wager amount
1512 greater than the credit amount available in the user's
wagering system 102 wager account 102D, a notification 1704 as
shown in the screen display 1702 of FIG. 17 may be presented to the
user.
[0028] In addition, the wager page 1502 may be configured to permit
users to sort the list of stored wagers 1504 according to wager
amount 1512 or skill level 1510, for example. The wager page 1502
may also be provided with a conventional search functionality that
permits users to search the list 1504 for a specific wager amount
1512, a specific skill level 1510, and/or the username 1506 of a
particular player 112, 114, 116. In a normal mode of operation, the
list of stored wagers 1504 can be ordered according to when the
wagers were initially stored, such that the first wager on the list
1504 may be the most recent or the oldest stored wager on the list
1504.
[0029] In various embodiments, a credit balance 714J of the wager
account 102D of a user can be displayed on the toolbar 714, for
example, of various pages of the wagering system 102. In addition,
users may be permitted to view a breakdown of gross transactions
that have impacted the credit balance by navigating to the "account
statement" page 1102, using the associated link 714B on the toolbar
714. The "account statement" page 1102 can be configured to display
transactions including total amounts deposited to the wagering
system 102, total amounts withdrawn, total fees taken from winning
wagers, and/or amounts won or lost by the user.
[0030] With general reference to FIGS. 1 through 2B, in operation
of the wagering system 102, if a player 112, 114, 116 cannot find a
compatible wager stored on the wagering system 102 to select at
step 254, the player 112, 114, 116 can store a wager at step 256,
and log into the multiplayer gaming network 104 to await another
player's 112, 114, 116 acceptance of the stored wager. Users may
also be permitted to store multiple wagers on the wagering system
102 for a particular video game or multiple video games to promote
an increased probability that an opponent player 112, 114, 116 will
be available to play for one of the multiple wagers. With respect
to multiple wagers, the wagering system 102 can be configured to
verify that the player 112, 114, 116 has enough credit in the wager
account 102D to cover the largest of the multiple stored wagers.
Players 112, 114, 116 who stored wagers may be automatically
notified at step 258 by e-mail, instant messenger, or another
communication method, if another player 112, 114, 116 has selected
their wager. It can be seen that players 112, 114, 116 who had
previously stored wagers on the wagering system 102 can await
notification of wager acceptance while working on a computer system
or other access device 122 (wireless phone, PDA, notebook, etc.),
in addition to the gaming console 106, 108, 110.
[0031] If the user stores a wager substantially compatible with a
wager previously stored by another player, and if the wagering
system 102 determines through application of its competency
structure 102G that the skill levels associated with the players
112, 114, 116 who made the wagers are compatible, then the players
112, 114, 116 associated with the wagers may then be directed to
compete in networked match play immediately at step 260. The
wagering system 102 may be configured to define compatible wager
amounts as substantially the same amounts or within a certain
acceptable range of deviation between the amounts. The competency
structure 102G of the wagering system 102 may not permit players
112, 114, 116 of comparatively higher skill levels to accept wagers
from players 112, 114, 116 at comparatively lower skill levels, but
the converse may be permitted (i.e., lower skill level players 112,
114, 116 can be permitted to accept wagers stored by higher skill
level players 112, 114, 116). Also, the competency structure 102G
of the wagering system 102 may be configured to not permit a player
112, 114, 116 having a first skill level to play against a player
112, 114, 116 at a second skill level, wherein the absolute
magnitude or percentage difference between the first and second
skill levels exceeds a predetermined maximum level. If the wagering
system 102 matches compatible wagers, or if a user accepts a stored
wager on the wager page 1502, for example, then the user can be
presented with a confirmation page 1802 as shown in the screen
display of FIG. 18. The confirmation page 1802 prompts the user to
accept or decline the video game match wager subject to the terms
and conditions displayed on the confirmation page 1802. On the
other hand, if a user stores a wager, then the user can be
presented with the confirmation page 1902 as shown in the screen
display of FIG. 19. These confirmation pages may display a
reference number attributed to the accepted or stored wager by the
wagering system 102.
[0032] If a user accepts another user's stored wager, then that
particular stored wager can be removed from the wager page 1502 by
the wagering system 102. If a user had multiple stored wagers on
the wager page 1502, or on multiple wager pages 1502, and the user
enters into competition for one of the wagers, then all of the
wagers can be removed from that wager page 1502, and/or all of the
wager pages 1502.
[0033] To select a wager at step 254, users may be required to have
loaded enough credit into the wager account 102D to cover the wager
amount; and, to have challenged another user of a compatible skill
level. If a user attempts to select a wager without meeting these
criteria, among possibly others, then the wagering system 102 may
present the user with a notification 2004 shown in the screen
display 2002 of FIG. 20 for attempting to compete with another
player having an incompatible skill level; and/or a notification
2104 shown in the screen display 2102 of FIG. 21 for attempting to
accept a wager of an amount greater than the credit balance of the
wager account 102D of the user. In this event, the wagering system
102 may be configured to automatically direct the user as to how to
transfer additional funds into the user's wager account 102D.
[0034] If users have met the necessary criteria and have stored a
wager, then they may receive a prompt 2204 shown in the screen
display 2202 of FIG. 22, notifying them to prepare their game
console 106, 108, 110 and await a challenger to compete in the
designated video game on the multiplayer gaming network 104. If
users have met the necessary criteria and have accepted a stored
wager, then they may receive a prompt 2304 as shown on the screen
display 2302 of FIG. 23, advising them to prepare the game console
106, 108, 110 for game play, in the designated video game, on the
multiplayer gaming network 104, and telling them the network
identification of their competitors, so that they can locate them
on the network 104 for game play.
[0035] After the user who accepted the wager locates the user who
stored the wager on the multiplayer video game network 104, they
may compete for the wager at step 260, in the same manner as if
they were engaging in non-wagered competition on the network 104
and independently of the operation of the wagering system 102.
[0036] At step 262, using the confirmation system 102E, the
competitors may confirm the outcome of their wager in various
embodiments of the confirmation system 102E. For example, the users
may confirm the outcome through a link in an email sent by the
wagering system 102 to both competitors after one of them accepted
the stored wager of the other. This link may take them to the
"confirm outcome" page 1002 as is seen in the screen display of
FIG. 10 associated with their wager account 102D. This page 1002
may display any wagers 1004, 1006 that they may have stored, which
another user had accepted, or they may have accepted themselves.
Furthermore, the page 1002 may allow them to confirm the outcome of
the wager or wagers 1004, 1006 through associated buttons and/or
other functions (e.g. "win," "loss," or "did not play"). In
general, users may confirm the outcome of a wager in a variety of
ways. For example, in certain embodiments users may confirm wager
outcomes by using a wireless telephone to communicate a text
message to the confirmation system 102E, or by using another
interactive feature.
[0037] At step 264, if both players 112, 114, 116 confirmed the
same outcome of their wager, using the designated confirmation
system 102E, then the wagering system 102 may award a prize to the
winning player 112, 114, 116 at step 266 by transferring a credit
equivalent to the funds staked in the wager from the wager account
102D of the losing player 112, 114, 116 to the wager account 102D
of the winning player 112, 114, 116. The wager amount may be
reduced by a transaction fee charged by the wagering system 102. In
this manner, no funds need to be transferred directly between users
of the wagering system 102; the server 102A merely updates the
wager accounts 102D to reflect the results of wagers won or lost by
the players 112, 114, 116.
[0038] In contrast, if neither player 112, 114, 116 confirms the
outcome, if only one player 112, 114, 116 confirms the outcome, or
if the players 112, 114, 116 confirm different outcomes, at step
264, then no prize may be immediately transferred between wager
accounts 102D. In this event, at step 270, the dispute settlement
system 102H may be invoked to help to determine or settle the
outcome of a video game wager. If one or both of the players 112,
114, 116 did not confirm the outcome, then the non-confirming
player 112, 114, 116, or players 112, 114, 116, may be sent another
email, reminding them to confirm the wager outcome and of the
possible consequential adjustment to their user ratings if they do
not confirm.
[0039] Otherwise, if the two players 112, 114, 116 confirm
different outcomes at step 264, then the players 112, 114, 116 may
receive each other's email addresses from the dispute settlement
system 102H at step 270, in order to jointly resolve the
discrepancy in reported outcomes. Also, the players 112, 114, 116
may be notified by the wagering system 102 of possible
consequential adjustment to their user ratings, if they do not
confirm matching outcomes. Through a link in this email
communication, for example, the players 112, 114, 116 may be
provided with a chance to re-confirm the outcome of the wager.
[0040] If the dispute can be satisfactorily resolved at step 272,
then the credit transfer of step 266 can occur. If the dispute
cannot be resolved at step 272, however, one or both players 112,
114, 116 may have their user ratings adjusted by the ratings system
102F, at step 268, as follows. If, after invoking the dispute
settlement system 102H, neither player 112, 114, 116 confirms the
outcome, then both players 112, 114, 116 user ratings may be
adjusted by the ratings system 102F. If only one player 112, 114,
116 confirms the outcome, then only the other player's 112, 114,
116 user rating may be adjusted by the ratings system 102F. In
certain embodiments, if the players 112, 114, 116 do not confirm
the same outcome, then both players 112, 114, 116 user ratings may
be adjusted by the ratings system 102F.
[0041] Users of the wagering system 102 may have user ratings
displayed next to their stored wagers, based on the aforementioned
rating factors. For instance, new users could start with an
initial, predetermined percentage user rating that can be adjusted
in accordance with subsequent actions of the users in view of the
rating factors. While users may have multiple skill levels for
different video games and game modes, the users may be provided
with a single user rating, which would be impacted by the manner in
which they utilized the wagering system 102 with respect to wagered
video game play. Over time, it can be seen that the user ratings
system 102F can become a self-regulating device to penalize users
who do not accurately, or who never, confirm the outcome of their
wagers. It can be seen that the time a player 112, 114, 116 with a
lower user rating may wait for a video game opponent to select his
or her wager generally would be greater than the time that a player
112, 114, 116 with a higher user rating would have to wait.
Moreover, a user may not be allowed to accept other users' wagers,
if his or her user rating fell below a specified, threshold level.
Application of the user rating system 102F thus reduces the
possibility that a user would misuse or ignore the confirmation
system 102E.
[0042] Following the credit transfer at step 266, the wagering
system 102 may be configured to process the outcome of the
concluded match, at step 274, to alter a competency structure 102G
maintained by the wagering system 102 for the players 112, 114,
116. The competency structure 102G may be created and configured as
follows. Each user of the wagering system 102 can be given skill
levels in a particular video game based on a combination of
factors, including the amount of money won or lost, as well as a
win-loss record or other score achieved, by playing the video game
against other users for wagers. For example, users might be given a
skill level between one and ten, one representing an extremely poor
player and ten representing an exceptional player. In this example,
the skill level in a given video game would increase, if a win-loss
record or a wagered amount won by the user improved, according to
established algorithms. The users may access their skill levels, as
well as win-loss records or other scores achieved on the player
profile page 1302 as shown in the screen display of FIG. 13, by
clicking on the "Player Profile" link 714F on the vertical toolbar
714 included on each member page. If a user had not yet played a
particular video game for a wager, then an initial, mid-range skill
level could be given to the user, for example. The wagering system
102 may be configured to not set the initial skill level to the
lowest possible skill level, because the user might be relatively
experienced playing the video game but has not yet played the game
for a wager using the wagering system 102. Based on the functioning
of the competency structure 102G, the wagering system 102 can be
configured to permit players 112, 114, 116 of lower skill levels to
challenge other players 112, 114, 116 with substantially the same
or better skill levels, but the converse may not be permitted by
the wagering system 102.
[0043] Embodiments of the invention may also include a myriad of
manifestations of team game play, from two-on-two competitions to
games where multiple players 112, 114, 116 compete on the same team
against a similar number of opponents on an opposing team.
Additional links may be added to the pull-down menu 806, for
example, for different modes of team play, and the service may
create distinct lists of wagers for each type of game and game
mode. For instance, there could be separate links to different
lists of wagers for one-on-one competitions, as compared to
two-on-two competitions. For each team game playing modality, a
similar mode of operation to what has been described previously
herein would permit wagering on match play. To permit multiple
players 112, 114, 116 to compete together for a wager, for example,
one player 112, 114, 116 may access the page of the web site 102C
that displayed the list of stored wagers for the game and
game-playing mode that his or her team wished to play. An example
of a wager page 2402 for team game play is illustrated in the
screen display of FIG. 24. If the user decides to accept or store a
wager, identities of the user's teammates can be entered into the
wagering system 102. In this case, a "wager-form" 2502 may appear
as is seen in the screen display of FIG. 25. Each teammate may need
to confirm storage or acceptance of the team wager, such as by
indicating confirmation on a web site 102C, for example, or by
accessing a link in an email communicated by the wagering system
102. If all team members indicate their willingness to compete for
the wager, then those users who accept the wager will receive the
network identifications of the opposing team members. Team video
game play may then commence when the team that accepted a wager
locates the team that stored the wager on the network. After the
competition concludes, each member of either team or a single
representative player elected by each team, may confirm the outcome
of the wager, substantially in accordance with the process
described above. The wager, deducted by the transaction fee, may
then be distributed evenly from each member of the losing team's
wager accounts 102D to each member of the winning team's wager
accounts 102D.
[0044] In various embodiments, the competency structure 102G may be
altered to raise or lower the skill level of each of the players
112, 114, 116 on either team, with respect to the game and the game
mode. For this reason, a user could have multiple skill levels in
the same game for disparate game modes. Although one player 112,
114, 116 may accept or store a wager, all members of the team may
be required to be registered users of the wagering system 102 and
have enough credit in their respective wager accounts 102D to cover
a pro rata portion of the total team wager to allow the wager to be
stored or accepted pursuant to team play.
[0045] The examples presented herein are intended to illustrate
potential and specific implementations of the present invention. It
can be appreciated that the examples are intended primarily for
purposes of illustration of the invention for those skilled in the
art. No particular aspect or aspects of the examples are
necessarily intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
For instance, screen displays included herein are examples provided
merely for convenience of disclosure for those skilled in the
art.
[0046] It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of
the present invention have been simplified to illustrate elements
that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present
invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity, other
elements. For example, certain operating system details and modules
of network platforms are not described herein. Those of ordinary
skill in the art will recognize, however, that these and other
elements may be desirable in a typical computer system or database
system. However, because such elements are well known in the art
and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the
present invention, a discussion of such elements is not provided
herein.
[0047] Any element expressed herein as a means for performing a
specified function is intended to encompass any way of performing
that function including, for example, a combination of elements
that perform that function. Furthermore the invention, as defined
by such means-plus-function claims, resides in the fact that the
functionalities provided by the various recited means are combined
and brought together in a manner as defined by the appended claims.
Therefore, any means that can provide such functionalities may be
considered equivalents to the means shown herein.
[0048] In general, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in
the art that some of the embodiments as described hereinabove may
be implemented in many different embodiments of software, firmware,
and/or hardware. The software code or specialized control hardware
used to implement some of the present embodiments is not limiting
of the present invention. For example, the embodiments described
hereinabove may be implemented in computer software using any
suitable computer software language type such as, for example, C or
C++ using, for example, conventional or object-oriented techniques.
Such software may be stored on any type of suitable
computer-readable medium or media such as, for example, a magnetic
or optical storage medium. Thus, the operation and behavior of the
embodiments are described without specific reference to the actual
software code or specialized hardware components. The absence of
such specific references is feasible because it is clearly
understood that artisans of ordinary skill would be able to design
software and control hardware to implement the embodiments of the
present invention based on the description herein with only a
reasonable effort and without undue experimentation.
[0049] Moreover, the processes associated with the present
embodiments may be executed by programmable equipment, such as
computers. Software that may cause programmable equipment to
execute the processes may be stored in any storage device, such as,
for example, a computer system (non-volatile) memory, an optical
disk, magnetic tape, or magnetic disk. Furthermore, some of the
processes may be programmed when the computer system is
manufactured or via a computer-readable medium. Such a medium may
include any of the forms listed above with respect to storage
devices and may further include, for example, a carrier wave
modulated, or otherwise manipulated, to convey instructions that
may be read, demodulated/decoded and executed by a computer.
[0050] It can also be appreciated that certain process aspects
described herein may be performed using instructions stored on a
computer-readable medium or media that direct a computer system to
perform process steps. A computer-readable medium may include, for
example, memory devices such as diskettes, compact discs of both
read-only and read/write varieties, optical disk drives, and hard
disk drives. A computer-readable medium may also include memory
storage that may be physical, virtual, permanent, temporary,
semi-permanent and/or semi-temporary. A computer-readable medium
may further involve one or more data signals transmitted on one or
more carrier waves.
[0051] A "computer" or "computer system" through which a user may
access the wagering system 102 may be, for example, a wireless or
wire line variety of a microcomputer, minicomputer, server,
mainframe, laptop, personal data assistant (PDA), wireless e-mail
device (e.g., "BlackBerry" trade-designated devices), cellular
phone, pager, processor, fax machine, scanner, or any other
programmable device configured to transmit and receive data over a
network. Moreover, it can be seen that the game consoles 106, 108,
110 themselves may take on the functionality of a "computer" or
"computer system" with respect to allowing users to directly access
and/or manipulate online content. Specifically, players 112, 114,
116 may be able to utilize the wagering system 102 using their
consoles 106, 108, 110, respectively, in a similar manner as if
they were accessing it through a personal computer. Likewise, it
can also be seen that cable boxes may take on the functionality of
a "computer" or "computer system" with respect to allowing users to
access and/or manipulate online content. Specifically, players 112,
114, 116 may be able to utilize the wagering system 102 through
their cable boxes, using buttons on their remote control to
manipulate wagering functions, in a similar manner as if they were
accessing the wagering system 102 through a personal computer. With
respect to accessing the wagering system 102 through game consoles
106, 108, 110 and cable boxes, it can be seen that the wagering
system 102 may be customized for accessibility solely by one or
both of these types of devices, so that its features could be more
easily manipulated by a console controller and/or a cable remote
control.
[0052] Computer devices disclosed herein may include memory for
storing certain software applications used in obtaining, processing
and communicating data. It can be appreciated that such memory may
be internal or external to the disclosed embodiments. The memory
may also include any means for storing software, including a hard
disk, an optical disk, floppy disk, ROM (read only memory), RAM
(random access memory), PROM (programmable ROM), EEPROM
(electrically erasable PROM), and other computer-readable
media.
[0053] In various embodiments of the present invention disclosed
herein, a single component may be replaced by multiple components,
and multiple components may be replaced by a single component, to
perform a given function or functions. Except where such
substitution would not be operative to practice embodiments of the
present invention, such substitution is within the scope of the
present invention. Any of the servers described herein, for
example, may be replaced by a "server farm" or other grouping of
networked servers that are located and configured for cooperative
functions. It can be appreciated that a server farm may serve to
distribute workload between/among individual components of the farm
and may expedite computing processes by harnessing the collective
and cooperative power of multiple servers. Such server farms may
employ load-balancing software that accomplishes tasks such as, for
example, tracking demand for processing power from different
machines, prioritizing and scheduling tasks based on network
demand, and/or providing backup contingency in the event of
component failure or reduction in operability.
[0054] While various embodiments of the invention have been
described herein, it should be apparent, however, that various
modifications, alterations and adaptations to those embodiments may
occur to persons skilled in the art with the attainment of some or
all of the advantages of the present invention. The disclosed
embodiments are therefore intended to include all such
modifications, alterations and adaptations without departing from
the scope and spirit of the present invention as set forth in the
appended claims.
* * * * *