U.S. patent application number 11/303819 was filed with the patent office on 2007-06-21 for progressive puzzle.
This patent application is currently assigned to Mattel, Inc.. Invention is credited to Bryan Benedict, Nathan Proch, Wayne Scott.
Application Number | 20070142106 11/303819 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38174349 |
Filed Date | 2007-06-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070142106 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Proch; Nathan ; et
al. |
June 21, 2007 |
Progressive puzzle
Abstract
A progressive puzzle dispersed throughout a thematic product
universe is provided. The thematic product universe includes a
plurality of different product genres sharing a common theme. The
progressive puzzle includes a plurality of clues, and for each
clue, a solution. The clues are progressive, such that the solution
to at least one clue leads to a different clue. According to some
aspects of the disclosure, at least one clue can be associated with
a different product genre than at least one other clue, and/or at
least one solution can be derived from a different product genre
than at least one other solution.
Inventors: |
Proch; Nathan; (Los Angeles,
CA) ; Benedict; Bryan; (Torrance, CA) ; Scott;
Wayne; (Playa Del Rey, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ALLEMAN HALL MCCOY RUSSELL & TUTTLE LLP
806 SW BROADWAY
SUITE 600
PORTLAND
OR
97205-3335
US
|
Assignee: |
Mattel, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
38174349 |
Appl. No.: |
11/303819 |
Filed: |
December 16, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/9 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 9/0098 20130101;
A63F 3/0423 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/009 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A progressive puzzle dispersed throughout a thematic product
universe that includes a plurality of different product genres
sharing a common theme, the progressive puzzle comprising: a
plurality of clues, where at least one clue is associated with a
different product genre than at least one other clue; for each
clue, a solution; where the clues are progressive, such that the
solution to at least one clue leads to a different clue.
2. The progressive puzzle of claim 1, where the thematic product
universe includes a toys product genre including a plurality of
characters existing in the thematic product universe, an
audio-visual entertainment product genre including audio-visual
representations of the plurality of characters, and a network
product genre including network accessible information pertaining
to the plurality of characters.
3. The progressive puzzle of claim 2, where characters in the toys
product genre include toy cars.
4. The progressive puzzle of claim 1, where at least one solution
is derived from a different product genre than at least one other
solution.
5. The progressive puzzle of claim 1, where all but a first clue is
hidden until a preceding clue is solved.
6. The progressive puzzle of claim 1, where at least one clue is
found on an Internet site showcasing a character from the thematic
product universe, and where the solution to that clue is derived
from printed material sold with a toy embodying the character.
7. The progressive puzzle of claim 1, where at least one clue is
associated with a printed material associated with a toy, and where
the solution to that clue is derived from an audio visual media
including an audio visual representation of the toy.
8. The progressive puzzle of claim 1, where at least one clue
includes a toy package including coded writing, and where the
solution to that clue is derived from a different toy package
including normal writing corresponding to the coded writing.
9. The progressive puzzle of claim 1, further comprising, for at
least one solution, a prize.
10. The progressive puzzle of claim 9, where the prize includes
access to Internet content within the thematic product
universe.
11. The progressive puzzle of claim 9, where the prize includes an
item from the thematic product universe.
12. A progressive puzzle dispersed throughout a thematic product
universe that includes a plurality of different product genres, the
progressive puzzle comprising: a plurality of clues; for each clue,
a solution, where at least one solution is derived from a different
product genre than at least one other solution; where the clues are
progressive, such that the solution to at least one clue leads to a
different clue.
13. The progressive puzzle of claim 12, where the thematic product
universe includes a toys product genre including a plurality of
characters existing in the thematic product universe, an
audio-visual entertainment product genre including audio-visual
representations of the plurality of characters, and a network
product genre including network accessible information pertaining
to the plurality of characters.
14. The progressive puzzle of claim 12, where at least one clue is
associated with a different product genre than at least one other
clue.
15. The progressive puzzle of claim 12, where all but a first clue
is hidden until a preceding clue is solved.
16. The progressive puzzle of claim 12, further comprising, for at
least one solution, a prize.
17. The progressive puzzle of claim 12, where the prize includes
access to Internet content within the thematic product
universe.
18. The progressive puzzle of claim 17, where the prize includes an
item from the thematic product universe.
19. A thematic product universe, comprising: a toys product genre
including a plurality of characters; an audio-visual entertainment
product genre including audio-visual representations of the
plurality of characters; a network product genre including network
accessible information pertaining to the plurality of characters;
and a progressive puzzle, including: a plurality of clues, where at
least one clue is found within the line of toys product genre, the
audio-visual entertainment product genre, or the network product
genre; for each clue, a solution, where at least one solution is
derived from a product genre other than the product genre where the
clue corresponding to the solution is found; where the clues are
progressive, such that the solution to at least one clue leads to a
different clue.
20. The thematic product universe of claim 19, wherein the
progressive puzzle further includes, for at least one solution, a
prize.
Description
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY
[0001] The toy industry has evolved along with technology and
marketing techniques. In the past, many toys were individual items
that were not related to other toys. Of course, over time, many
make-belief universes that include several different toys have come
into being. In fact, some thematic toy universes now include
conventional physical toys, audio-visual entertainment including
audio-visual representations of the physical toys, as well as
written materials, games, clothing, Internet websites, food, and
just about everything else that can be based on the physical toys.
Dispersing a toy line throughout several different product genres
can create a more immersive experience and can more fully cater to
the varied interests of different consumers. However, as thematic
toy universes become more and more expansive, spanning across
several different types of product genres, it can be difficult to
keep the different product genres closely linked to one another. In
particular, it can be difficult to encourage exploration across
different product genres existing within the same thematic product
universe.
[0002] According to a nonlimiting aspect of the present disclosure,
a progressive puzzle can be dispersed throughout a thematic product
universe that includes a plurality of different product genres
sharing a common theme. The progressive puzzle can include a
plurality of clues, where at least one clue can be associated with
a different product genre than at least one other clue. For each
clue, there can be a solution, and different solutions can be found
in different product genres. The clues can be progressive, such
that a solution to one clue leads to a different clue.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary thematic product universe.
[0004] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary stage of a progressive puzzle
based on a thematic product universe.
[0005] FIG. 3 shows an example of a plural-stage linear progressive
puzzle.
[0006] FIG. 4 shows an example of a plural-stage parallel
progressive puzzle including a dead end.
[0007] FIG. 5 shows an example of a plural-stage parallel
progressive puzzle including a false level.
[0008] FIG. 6 shows an example of a portion of a plural-stage
parallel progressive puzzle including a funneling validation.
[0009] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary progressive puzzle based on a
thematic product universe.
[0010] FIGS. 8 and 9 show examples of toy car packaging in a
thematic toy car product universe.
WRITTEN DESCRIPTION
[0011] A progressive puzzle can be used to encourage exploration of
a thematic product universe. As used herein, a thematic product
universe is used to describe the entirety of all products based on
the same conceptual theme. A nonlimiting example of a thematic
product universe is the Acceleracers.TM. product universe
distributed by Mattel.RTM. Inc. The Acceleracers.TM. product
universe includes several characters in the form of make-believe
persons, aliens, and vehicles. These characters are physically
embodied by toy action Figs. and toy vehicles. In addition to
physical toys, the Acceleracers.TM. product universe includes
animated movies, a collectible card game, an Internet web site, and
various other product genres that focus on the Acceleracers.TM.
characters.
[0012] While the various product genres of the Acceleracers.TM.
product universe are conceptually related, it can be challenging to
introduce each of the different product genres to a particular
person that is interested in a limited subset of product genres
within the product universe. Of course, this problem is not unique
to the Acceleracers.TM. product universe. Many different thematic
product universes include several different product genres, and
encouraging exploration of the various product genres within each
of these thematic product universes can be challenging. The present
disclosure describes a progressive puzzle that can be used to
encourage exploration across different product genres existing
within virtually any thematic product universe.
[0013] FIG. 1 schematically shows an exemplary thematic product
universe 10, which includes a plurality of different product
genres. As shown, product universe 10 includes toys 12, games 14,
audio/visual content 16, video games 18, Internet/electronic media
20, and literature 22. A thematic product universe can include more
or fewer product genres, including product genres different than
those illustrated in FIG. 1. In particular, while the present
disclosure uses a thematic toy universe as an example, the present
disclosure is not limited to thematic toy universes.
[0014] Toys 12 can include tangible products such as action
figures, vehicles, dolls, sports equipment, models, accessories,
etc. As used herein, "toy" does not necessarily refer to a product
solely intended for use by a child, but rather any product sold for
enjoyment, collectibility, recreation, sport, and/or other
leisurely pursuit. Toys can be used by persons of all ages.
[0015] Games 14 can be characterized as an activity, competitive or
otherwise, which is intended for the entertainment, amusement,
education, or stimulation of the player(s). Games may be embodied
as a physical product, exist electronically, or be a combination
thereof. Examples may include board games, collectible card games,
computer games, video games, jigsaw puzzles, etc.
[0016] Audio/visual content 16 can include live or pre-recorded
audio, video, and/or static images. Nonlimiting examples of
audio/visual content includes movies, television programs,
television commercials, product placements, computer programs,
video games, music, radio programming, pod casts, etc.
[0017] Video games 18 can include arcade, console, computer,
Internet, handheld, or combinations thereof. Some video games may
also be categorized as games 14, and some video games may also be
categorized as audio/visual content. In general, a particular
products inclusion in one product genre should not be interpreted
to exclude that product from inclusion in other product genres.
[0018] Internet/electronic media 20 can include an assortment of
written material, audio/visual content, games, activities, and/or
other content existing in an electronic format that can be accessed
via a computer network such as the Internet.
[0019] Literature 22 can include comic books, books, web content,
billboards, magazines, newspapers, product information,
advertisements, packaging, and various other content distributed in
physical and/or electric format.
[0020] The above categorization is provided to demonstrate the
types of products that can be made available in an exemplary
product universe. In no way do the above examples limit a product
universe to the product genres described above, or the various
types of products existing within the listed product genres. A
product universe can include virtually any combination of different
product genres, and the product genres can be categorized in
virtually any number of different ways.
[0021] A plurality of products existing within a thematic product
universe can be linked by a progressive puzzle, thus promoting
exposure of a variety of products or product genres to a larger
audience. In some examples, progressive puzzles may include a
series of clues, with each clue having a solution that in some way
leads to a subsequent clue. In order to facilitate a progressive
puzzle, there can be one or more methods of validating solutions to
clues. Furthermore, there can be one or more intermediate or
ultimate prizes, which can be awarded to players that successfully
solve the clues.
[0022] As described herein, the clues, solutions, validation
methods, and/or prizes can be dispersed throughout different
product genres in a thematic product universe. Accordingly, a
player encountering a clue in one product genre, may be required to
look to a different product genre to find a solution, and yet
another product genre to submit a solution and have the solution
validated. Furthermore, a product from yet another product genre
can serve as a prize for submitting a correct solution to the clue.
In this manner, a player can be lead to different product genres
while playing the progressive puzzle. Of course, not every aspect
of a progressive puzzle needs to be in a different product genre.
Several aspects (e.g., clues, solutions, validations, and prizes of
one or more puzzle stages) can be in the same product genre.
[0023] FIG. 2 shows a stage of a progressive puzzle, which includes
a clue 202 and a solution 204 to the clue. Solutions to clues can
be submitted by players, and the puzzle stage can include a
validation 206 to determine whether the submitted solution is a
correct solution. Some stages may include one or more prizes 208
that can be awarded for attempting to solve a clue and/or for
submitting a correct solution. FIG. 2 also shows a subsequent clue
210, which a player can attempt to solve after clue 202 is
solved.
[0024] Clues 202 may take the form of a direct or indirect
question, allusion or other reference. In some examples, clues may
reference products, general knowledge, or knowledge associated
specifically with the thematic product universe. Therefore, clues
may be issued in a variety of ways by utilizing a plurality of
thematic product genres. In some examples, clues can be issued via
toys, games, movies, websites, etc.
[0025] Solutions 204 to clue 202 can vary greatly depending on the
nature of clue 204. In some embodiments, clue 202 can be a
question, and thus, solution 204 can be an answer to the question.
In some embodiments, solution 204 may include making an observation
and/or recognizing a fact, although a formal question has not been
set forth. In general, it should be understood that the nature of
clues and solutions can vary greatly from one puzzle stage to the
next.
[0026] Once a player forms solution 204 to clue 202, the player may
proceed to validation 206 of their solution. If the solution
offered by the player is successfully validated, the player may
move to the subsequent puzzle stage (beginning with clue 210).
Alternatively, if the solution offered by the player is incorrect,
the player may try again by submitting another solution. If
validation is again unsuccessful, the player may continue in this
manner until a solution is validated. In some embodiments, some
puzzle stages may not allow a player to attempt another solution
after a predetermined number of incorrect solutions are
submitted.
[0027] A solution may be validated via a variety of different
methods, which may include direct communication between the player
and puzzle manager, or by an indirect method such as by self
validation by the individual player or among groups of players. In
some embodiments, solution validation can be automatic, so that a
subsequent clue is effectively hidden until a correct solution is
obtained, and once obtained, the subsequent clue becomes apparent.
In such a case, the player may not even have to "submit" a
solution, because discovering the solution makes apparent a
subsequent clue that was actually available, although undiscovered,
prior to the solution.
[0028] A player successfully validating their solution at step 206
may be awarded a prize 208. Prizes may or may not be awarded to an
individual or group of players depending on a variety of factors
(e.g., number of available prizes, difficulty of puzzle stage,
etc.). Prizes awarded for completion of a puzzle stage may serve to
reward successful problem solving and encourage puzzle
participation, and thus, exploration of the related thematic
product universe.
[0029] Two or more puzzle stages can be arranged such that upon
completion of a first puzzle stage, a player moves to a subsequent
puzzle stage. In some embodiments, it may be impossible to advance
to the subsequent puzzle stage until the prior puzzle stage is
successfully completed. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, successful
validation of solution 204 leads to subsequent clue 210. Clue 210,
the solution to clue 210, the validation of the solution, and/or a
prize awarded for the solution can lead a player to a different
product genre within a thematic product universe. In this manner, a
progressive puzzle can encourage further exploration of the
thematic product universe by the player.
[0030] A player may navigate a progressive puzzle by following the
underlying puzzle structure of clue, solution, validation, and,
optionally, prize. A progressive puzzle may include a one or more
stages to arrive at a solution or set of solutions. Specifically,
the progressive puzzle may require a set of solutions that are
solved utilizing linear or parallel structures, or combinations
thereof. Various example progressive puzzle structures are
discussed below with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 6. It should
be understood, however, that other puzzle structures are within the
scope of this disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 3 shows a nonlimiting example of a progressive puzzle
300 having multiple puzzle stages. The stages of puzzle 300 are
arranged linearly, so that each stage is directly followed by a
single puzzle stage. In other words, each clue has a single correct
solution, and only upon finding the single correct solution does a
player move to a subsequent clue in the next puzzle stage. In the
illustrated embodiment, puzzle 300 includes exactly three stages,
each including a clue, solution, and validation. This is not
required. In some embodiments, a linear progressive puzzle may
include fewer or more puzzle stages.
[0032] In some embodiments, a progressive puzzle may enhance a
player's enjoyment of a thematic product universe by encouraging an
immersive experience leading the player from one product genre to
another as the player moves forward in the progressive puzzle.
Furthermore, each progressive puzzle level may become increasingly
difficult, thus encouraging a player to delve deeper into the
thematic product universe in an attempt to solve difficult
clues.
[0033] In some embodiments, a progressive puzzle may include a
parallel puzzle configuration. For example, FIG. 4 shows a parallel
progressive puzzle 400 that includes Clue.sub.1, which may be
crafted in a manner so that there are a plurality of correct
solutions, including Solution A.sub.1, Solution B.sub.1, and
Solution C.sub.1. A clue that has multiple correct solutions, such
as Clue.sub.1 in FIG. 4, can be referred to as a branching clue.
Depending on the solution a particular player arrives at for a
branching clue, the player may end up following one of different
possible parallel puzzle tracks (e.g., Track A, Track B, Track
C).
[0034] In some embodiments, some parallel puzzle tracks can be
different than other parallel puzzle tracks. For example, some
parallel puzzle tracks can be longer than others, having more
puzzle stages. Likewise, some puzzle tracks can be shorter,
effectively offering a "short cut" to the end of a progressive
puzzle. Such a short cut may correspond to a particularly clever
solution, and thus serve as a reward to a player arriving at the
clever solution. Different puzzle tracks can also correspond to
aspects of chance, so that some players progress down a particular
track based at least partially on luck.
[0035] In some embodiments, a particular parallel puzzle track may
have more, fewer, and/or different prizes than other parallel
puzzle tracks. For example, FIG. 4 shows that parallel puzzle Track
A leads to a Prize A, while parallel puzzle track B leads to a
Prize B. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, a portion of the
progressive puzzle may "dead end", as demonstrated by Track C. For
example, a correctly validated solution at Validation C2 may cause
the progressive puzzle to effectively terminate. In other words,
after even a successful solution to Clue C2 has been validated,
there may not be any further clues in that puzzle track. In the
case of a dead end, a player may proceed to a previous puzzle stage
in order to circumvent the dead end. In this manner, a player
returning to Clue.sub.1 may progress by offering an alternative
correct Solution A.sub.1 or B.sub.1, thus encouraging exploration
and interaction by the player.
[0036] FIG. 5 shows a progressive puzzle 500 that includes "false
levels." False levels may be used to redirect players to a specific
puzzle stage or region of a puzzle. False levels can be used to
effectively add puzzle levels to a progressive puzzle depending on
the particular solution arrived at for a particular clue, such as
Clue.sub.1 of FIG. 5. Further, false levels may allow players to
progress through the puzzle stages in a non-sequential manner.
[0037] For example, a player may begin with a branching Clue.sub.1.
Next, a Solution A.sub.1 may be offered by the player, where it may
be validated at Validation A.sub.1 as one of multiple correct
solutions. Although the player's response was correctly validated,
the player may be redirected back to previous Clue.sub.1, and thus
have an opportunity to submit a different solution to
Clue.sub.1.
[0038] A player may offer a Solution B.sub.1 to Clue.sub.1, either
as a first try, after previously offering Solution A.sub.1 and
progressing down a false level, and/or offering one or more
incorrect solutions. Solution B.sub.1 can be validated at
Validation B.sub.1. However, after successful validation of
Solution B2, a player may be redirected to Clue C2. In this manner,
the player may bypass Solution C.sub.1 and Validation C.sub.1. Only
by offering Solution C.sub.1 as the initial solution to Clue.sub.1
can a player progress to the end of the progressive puzzle in the
most direct manner. In some embodiments, some false levels may
include prizes that make it desirable for players to discover and
explore the false levels. In some embodiments, it may be desirable
to find the shortest and/or fastest path to the end of the
progressive puzzle.
[0039] FIG. 6 shows a portion 600 of a progressive puzzle that
includes a parallel structure including a funneling validation at
602. Funneling validation 602 requires successful validation of the
solution to two or more different clues (in this case Clue A.sub.1,
Clue B.sub.1, and Clue C.sub.1) before the next clue is issued.
[0040] The overall structure of a progressive puzzle may contain
elements of the various puzzle structures presented above. The
utilization of linear structures, parallel structures, dead ends,
false levels, funneling validation, as well as various combinations
thereof, may provide the puzzle manager the ability to control the
puzzle structure and direction. In some embodiments, the puzzle
manager may utilize multiple parallel puzzle stages in a manner
that associates each of the various alternatives with a related
theme or sub-theme of the thematic product universe. In another
example, the progressive puzzle may be configured in a manner that
differentiates players based on a variety of player characteristics
such as age, skill level, product preference, past puzzle solving
behavior, and various others.
[0041] Regardless of puzzle structure, each stage of a progressive
puzzle can begin with a clue, which serves as the stimulus for the
player's solution. A clue may be issued to players by dispersing
them in a variety of ways among various aspects or product genres
of the thematic product universe. A puzzle manager may exercise
control over various aspects of the progressive puzzle, which may
include puzzle difficulty, duration, player progression, prize
attainment, product placement, product genre selection, and/or
various others.
[0042] Passive dissemination of clues to players across a variety
of product genres may be utilized by the puzzle manager to further
promote exploration of different products dispersed throughout the
thematic product universe. Passive dissemination of clues may
include non-direct communication between the player and the puzzle
manager such as occurs with a purchased product. For example, a
clue associated with a card game may require the player to find a
solution associated with a movie. Another example may include a
clue found in connection with a toy suggesting that a solution is
to be found within an Internet webpage. Further passive
dissemination of clues may be discovered by a variety of methods,
which may include the use of chromatic filter glasses, 3D glasses,
chromatic paint, digital signatures, digital watermarking, thumb
prints, code breaking, and/or various others.
[0043] In some embodiments, one or more puzzle stage may include a
clue that is actively issued to players or specific player groups
by direct communication. For example, a clue may be presented
directly to players in various forms, which may include mail,
email, advertisements, postings, subscriptions, announcements, etc.
Further, direct communication between the puzzle manager and the
player may provide for the placement of clues among specific
players or groups of players. Specifically, variations in puzzle
progression among players due to differences in player skill level
or age group may be reduced or enhanced at the discretion of the
puzzle manager through the direct communication of clues.
[0044] While clues may be issued by the puzzle manager in a variety
of ways, clues may also take the form of a validated solution of
the previous puzzle stage. Further, clues may be formed from the
summation of knowledge gained from prior clues, solutions and/or
stages of the progressive puzzle. In this manner, the progressive
puzzle may promote greater involvement and communication among
players.
[0045] In general, validation of a solution occurs before a player
may progress to a subsequent puzzle stage. Validation of an offered
solution may utilize a variety of methods, which are typically
catered to the particular solution and how the solution is
delivered. For example, a solution that is entered via a webpage
can be validated by a computer program that checks the accuracy of
the entered solution. If a solution is mailed, the solution can be
validated by manually and/or automatically inspecting the solution.
In some embodiments, a correct solution makes apparent a subsequent
clue without intervention by an outside source (self validation).
For example, a first clue can be a code, and deciphering the clue
can be the solution to the clue. When the code is successfully
deciphered, it can be apparent that the clue has been solved.
Furthermore, other clues that are written in the code can now be
read. Even though the subsequent clues were always present, they
could not be read until the code was deciphered.
[0046] At each puzzle stage, after a solution is validated, prizes
may be awarded to a player or group of players. The act of awarding
prizes among players may serve to encourage present or future
involvement in the puzzle activity. In some examples, prizes may be
awarded based on a range of operating parameters, which may
include: player participation, puzzle stage, puzzle duration, past
player performance, puzzle difficulty, skill level, level of
effort, desired marketing goals, predictive behavior, puzzle
manager input, and/or various others.
[0047] In one example, a player first to submit a correct solution
may be awarded a prize, whereas subsequent solutions by other
players are not awarded. Further, the prize value and award
frequency may also be influenced by a variety of factors. For
example, a solution to a difficult clue may be awarded a more
valuable prize. Example prizes awarded to select players may
include: future product savings, coupons, free products, special
edition products, cash, exclusive access, memberships, etc.
EXAMPLE
[0048] FIG. 7 shows an example portion of a progressive puzzle 700
that is dispersed throughout a thematic product universe. In this
embodiment, the progressive puzzle is dispersed throughout a
thematic product universe that includes at least the following
product genres: physical toys, product packaging, Internet
websites, and audio/visual movies. Other progressive puzzles can
include more, fewer, and/or different product genres.
[0049] One puzzle level of the progressive puzzle can include a
clue 702 in the form of a hologram. FIG. 8 shows a product 800 that
can include a toy car 802 that comes with a toy driver's license
804. Like many real driver's licenses, the toy driver's license can
include a hologram that can have different appearances depending on
how the hologram is viewed. In the illustrated embodiment, under
some viewing conditions, the hologram can show a website address.
This website address serves as clue 702. As shown at 704 of FIG. 7,
clue 702 can be solved by visiting the Internet website address
found in the hologram. This puzzle level self-validates, as shown
at 706. The above described puzzle level spans across different
product genres, namely, toys and Internet content. The above puzzle
level is relatively simple to solve, in that a player need only
recognize the Internet address and then navigate to the address
using an appropriate device.
[0050] Upon reaching the Internet website, a player can find a
password field that serves as a subsequent clue, as shown at 708.
As shown in FIG. 8, driver's license 804 includes a driver's
license number 808. At 710, clue 708 can be solved by entering
driver's license number 808 into the password field. The website
can be designed so as not to include any information indicating
what type of password should be entered into the password field,
thus making it difficult for a puzzle player to realize that the
driver's license number is the correct solution. However, a
parallel clue 712 can provide additional information that can be
used to reach solution 710. For example, a movie in the same
thematic product universe can show the character from driver's
license 804 entering his driver's license number into a password
field during a scene in the movie. A puzzle player can use this
information to realize that the driver's license number from toy
driver's license 804 should be entered into the password field
found on the Internet website. Clue 712 incorporates a new product
genre, audio/visual content in the form of a movie, into the
progressive puzzle. Because clues to the puzzle can be found in
movies, puzzle players are motivated to watch movies from the
thematic product universe in order to find clues and/or solutions
to the progressive puzzle.
[0051] When the player enters driver's license number 808 into the
password field, the entered number can be validated at 716. If the
correct number is entered, a player can proceed to prize 720. If an
incorrect number is entered, the player can attempt a different
entry. In the illustrated embodiment, prize 720 takes the form of
hidden Internet content that is not available unless a player
solves clue 708. In other embodiments, a prize can take virtually
any other form, and in some embodiments, no prize is awarded.
[0052] As shown at 730, the next clue in puzzle 700 can be a series
of undeciphered codes (e.g., a coded language) that have no readily
apparent meaning. In order to solve clue 730, the codes must be
deciphered. The meaning of the coded language can be attained by
solving a parallel clue 732, as explained with reference to FIGS. 8
and 9.
[0053] FIG. 8 shows a package 810 for toy car 802, and FIG. 9 shows
a package 910 for a toy car 902. Packages 810 and 910 are similarly
sized and shaped and are designed to be displayed next to each
other in the marketplace. As can be seen, package 810 includes
English language writing 812a, 812b, and 812c. On the other hand,
package 910 includes coded language 912a, 912b, and 912c, which
does not have a readily apparent meaning.
[0054] Coded language 912 is designed such that every letter from
the English language alphabet has a corresponding symbol in the
coded language. Package 910 can serve as a Rosetta Stone for
deciphering coded language 912, which can be the same coded
language used in clue 730. Therefore, by decoding the packages, at
least some of the information necessary to solve clue 730 is
obtained. For example, it can be seen that package 810 includes the
words: "ACCELERACERS" and "HOTWHEELS." Likewise, package 910
includes these same words, but written in coded language. By
comparing the two packages to one another the coded language
equivalent of the following letters can be deciphered: a, c, e, h,
l, o, r, s, t, w. These are the letters that are used to spell the
words "ACCELERACERS" and "HOTWHEELS." Other portions of the
packages, or materials that come with the packages, may be used to
decode other letters. Similarly, still other letters can be decoded
using decoding tools other than the packaging and included
materials.
[0055] A player can break the code and can successfully provide
solutions 740 to clues 730. The solutions can be validated at 750
to ensure that they are correct. Upon successful validation, the
player is rewarded with prize 760. In this case, prize 760 can
include access to an otherwise inaccessible webpage. The webpage
can provide a player with information pertaining to the thematic
product universe in which the puzzle is based. For example, the
website may provide secret information pertaining to toy cars 802
and 902.
[0056] As described above, progressive puzzle 700 allows a player
to use toys, movies, and Internet content, which is all based on
the same thematic universe, to advance through the progressive
puzzle. Other progressive puzzles can include more, fewer, and/or
completely different product genres, different types of puzzle
levels that are characterized by different clues and solutions.
[0057] The present disclosure has been provided with reference to a
nonlimiting subset of the various embodiments and operational
principles defined by the appended claims. It will be apparent to
those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail
may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
disclosure. Accordingly, the claims should not be interpreted as
being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed herein, but
rather, should be afforded a full breadth that embraces all
alternatives, modifications, and variances allowed by the plain
meaning of the claims. Where the disclosure or claims recite "a,"
"a first," or "another" element, or the equivalent thereof, they
should be interpreted to include one or more such elements, neither
requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.
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