U.S. patent application number 11/428875 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-10 for systems and methods for post-play gaming benefits.
Invention is credited to Magdalena M. FINCHAM, James A. JORASCH, Daniel E. TEDESCO, Robert C. TEDESCO, Jay S. WALKER.
Application Number | 20080009341 11/428875 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38919706 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080009341 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WALKER; Jay S. ; et
al. |
January 10, 2008 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR POST-PLAY GAMING BENEFITS
Abstract
According to some embodiments, systems, methods, and/or articles
of manufacture are associated with determining whether a first
condition associated with a first player of a gaming device is
satisfied, determining whether a second condition associated with a
second player of the gaming device is satisfied, and awarding, in
the case that both the first and second conditions are determined
to be satisfied, a benefit to the first player.
Inventors: |
WALKER; Jay S.; (Ridgefield,
CT) ; TEDESCO; Daniel E.; (Huntington, CT) ;
JORASCH; James A.; (New York, NY) ; TEDESCO; Robert
C.; (Fairfield, CT) ; FINCHAM; Magdalena M.;
(Ridgefield, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WALKER DIGITAL MANAGEMENT, LLC
2 HIGH RIDGE PARK
STAMFORD
CT
06905
US
|
Family ID: |
38919706 |
Appl. No.: |
11/428875 |
Filed: |
July 6, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3234 20130101; G07F 17/3237 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/25 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method, comprising: determining whether a first condition
associated with a first player of a gaming device is satisfied;
determining whether a second condition associated with a second
player of the gaming device is satisfied; and awarding, in the case
that both the first and second conditions are determined to be
satisfied, a benefit to the first player.
2-20. (canceled)
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Modern casinos offer players a wide variety of game
alternatives, including table games such as craps, blackjack and
poker. Some games, such as slot machines for example, may generally
constitute a major source of profit for a casino. Casinos therefore
may strive to increase the attractiveness and playability of such
machines (e.g., slot machines, video poker machines, and/or other
machines or games) in ways that attract and retain players.
[0002] More particularly, it is of substantial value to a casino to
facilitate good feelings and emotions of players to encourage
lengthier and/or faster play. When a player terminates play at a
machine, particularly a machine at which the player has "invested"
a large amount of time for example, the player may experience
negative feelings and/or emotions if the player has failed to win a
certain amount and/or has lost finds at the machine. Similarly, the
player may experience jealousy toward other players that are
perceived to win and/or do win at the machine subsequent to the
original player's failed attempts.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0003] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to
the accompanying figures. In the figures, like reference numerals
generally indicate identical and/or functionally similar elements.
The leftmost digit(s) of a reference numeral typically identifies
the figure in which the reference numeral appears. Some figures and
accompanying descriptions presented herein are indicative of
exemplary arrangements for stored representations of information. A
number of other arrangements may be employed instead of or in
addition to the tables and/or data storage structures depicted
herein. Similarly, illustrated entries represent exemplary
information, but the number and content of the entries may be
different from those illustrated herein. A brief description of the
figures follows.
[0004] FIG. 1 is flow diagram of a method according to some
embodiments;
[0005] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system according to some
embodiments;
[0006] FIG. 3 is block diagram of a controller according to some
embodiments;
[0007] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a gaming device according to
some embodiments;
[0008] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a player database according to
some embodiments;
[0009] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a post-play benefit database
according to some embodiments; and
[0010] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a method according to some
embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
I. INTRODUCTION
[0011] Some embodiments are generally directed to gaming devices
and benefits received there from. Some embodiments provide for
systems, methods, and articles of manufacture that allow a player
of a gaming device to receive benefits associated with the gaming
device, even when the player is not involved in a current session
of play at the gaming device.
[0012] For example, Applicants have recognized that it may be
advantageous in some circumstances to allow a player of a gaming
device to realize benefits associated with the gaming device even
when the player is not currently involved in a session of play at
the gaming device. A player that plays at a gaming device may
become "invested" in future outcomes of the gaming device
associated with subsequent players, for example, and/or the player
may otherwise become entitled to and/or earn benefits after the
player's session at the gaming device has terminated. Such benefits
may generally be referred to herein as "post-play benefits". Such
"post-play" benefits may typically require that the player play at
the gaming device prior to qualifying for and/or receiving a
benefit. In some embodiments however, the player may otherwise
become "invested" in and/or receive benefits associated with a
gaming device and/or associated with one or more other players.
[0013] Post-play benefits may generally be earned and/or awarded
based on at least one of (i) a prequalification condition, (ii) a
triggering condition, and/or (iii) a reward condition. A player may
fail to win a certain amount at a gaming device (e.g., a
prequalification condition), for example, and move on to another
gaming device. According to some embodiments, if a second player
initiates play at the first player's original gaming device within
a certain period of time (e.g., a triggering condition) and/or the
second player manages to win a certain amount at the first player's
original gaming device, then the first player may receive a
post-play benefit (e.g., via the current gaming device utilized by
the first player and/or via other means). In such a manner, for
example, the first player may feel that time spent at a gaming
device has earned the first player a stake in future outcomes of
the gaming device, and indeed it may. Because the first player may
experience such a feeling of "investment", the first player may be
more likely to continue play at a machine even while experiencing
losses, and/or may be more likely to play at other machines and/or
games even after losing (and/or not winning) at the original
machine. In some embodiments, additional conditions may be required
prior to the first player's redemption and/or receipt of a reward
or benefit (e.g., a reward condition).
[0014] With these and other advantages and features of embodiments
that will become hereinafter apparent, the nature of various
embodiments may be more clearly understood by reference to the
following detailed description, to the appended claims, and to the
figures referenced herein.
II. GENERAL PROCESS
[0015] In some embodiments, a player may generally qualify and/or
register for the opportunity to receive post-play benefits
associated with a gaming device. The player may spend a certain
amount of money at the gaming device (e.g., a "prequalification
condition"), for example, to qualify for post-play benefits. Then,
in some embodiments, the player may terminate play at the gaming
device (and may or may not continue play at a different device
and/or game). According to some embodiments, if a "triggering
condition" is then satisfied, the player may receive a post-play
benefit. If another player wins a certain amount at the gaming
device (e.g., after the original player leaves the gaming device),
for example, the original player may receive a post-play benefit so
that the original player does not experience negative feelings such
as jealousy (and indeed may experience positive feelings)
associated with the gaming device and/or so that such negative
feelings may be minimized. Various embodiments may be practiced to
effectuate these and other desirable results:
[0016] Referring initially FIG. 1, for example, a flow diagram of a
method 100 according to some embodiments is shown. In some
embodiments, a controller, a gaming device, another device, and/or
any combination thereof may perform and/or be associated with the
method 100. The method 100 may be performed by a slot and/or video
poker machine, for example, or a peripheral device or server in
communication therewith. The flow diagrams described herein do not
necessarily imply a fixed order to the actions, and embodiments may
be performed in any order that is or becomes practicable. It should
be noted that the methods herein may be performed by hardware,
software (including microcode), firmware, and/or any combination
thereof. For example, a storage medium may store thereon
instructions that when executed by a machine result in performance
according to any of the embodiments described herein.
[0017] In some embodiments (such as shown in FIG. 1), the method
100 may begin by determining whether a first condition associated
with a first player of a gaming device is satisfied, at 102. The
first condition may, for example, comprise a prequalification
condition associated with post-play benefits. In other words, the
first condition may be a condition that the first player must
satisfy in order to qualify for, register for, and/or otherwise
become eligible for post-play benefits. In some embodiments, the
first condition may be associated with (i) actions and/or omissions
of the first player, (ii) actions and/or omissions of a second
player, and/or (iii) external events (e.g., actions or events not
directly attributable to and/or associated with a player).
[0018] According to some embodiments, such as in the case that the
first condition is associated with actions and/or omissions of the
first player, the first condition may be associated with actions
and/or omissions of the first player at a first and/or second
gaming device. In other words, the first player may qualify for (or
be determined to be qualified for) post-play benefits based on
actions of the first player at a first gaming device, a second
gaming device, and/or a combination thereof. For example, the first
player may initiate play at a first gaming device to qualify for
post-play benefits. In some embodiments, simply the initiation of
play at the first gaming device may qualify the first player for
the post-play benefits. The first condition may comprise, for
example, a requirement that the first player (i) play at a specific
gaming device (e.g., the first gaming device), (ii) play at a
gaming device of a specific manufacturer, and/or (iii) play one or
more specific games at a gaming device.
[0019] According to some embodiments, the first condition may also
or alternatively comprise a requirement that the first player (i)
establish a certain credit balance at the first gaming device
(e.g., a twenty-dollar ($20) balance), (ii) play for a certain time
period at the first gaming device (e.g. fifteen minutes (15-min)
and/or thirty-minutes (30-min) pursuant to a time-play product),
(iii) purchase and/or initiate a certain number of outcomes at the
first gaming device (e.g., fifty (50) handle pulls of a slot
machine and/or two-hundred (200) hands of a video poker game
pursuant to a bulk-play product), (iv) purchase and/or initiate a
certain number of outcomes at the first gaming device within a
certain period of time (e.g., one hundred (100) slot machine spins
within one hour (1-hr); i.e., achieving a certain rate of play),
(v) wager a certain amount of money at the first gaming device
(e.g., committing to a wager greater than or equal to one hundred
dollars ($100)), (vi) wager a certain amount of money at the first
gaming device within a certain period of time (e.g., wager fifty
dollars ($50) within the course of a day), (vii) win a certain
amount of money at the first gaming device, (viii) win a certain
amount of money at the first gaming device within a certain period
of time, (ix) not win a certain amount of money at the first gaming
device (e.g., not win twenty-five dollars ($25), which may be a
pre-selected amount determined by the first player, the gaming
device, a peripheral device, and/or a server), (x) not win a
certain amount of money at the first gaming device within a certain
period of time, (xi) lose a certain amount of money at the first
gaming device, (xii) lose a certain amount of money at the first
gaming device within in a certain period of time, (xiii) obtain a
certain outcome at the first gaming device (e.g.,
Lemon-Lemon-Cherry, a bonus round triggering outcome, and/or an
outcome custom selected by the first player), (xiv) obtain a
certain outcome at the first gaming device within a certain period
of time, (xv) not obtain a certain outcome at the gaming device
(e.g., Jackpot-Jackpot-Jackpot) or outcomes (e.g., a "cold
streak"), (xvi) not obtain a certain outcome or outcomes at the
gaming device within a certain period of time (e.g., a "cold
streak" that lasts for more than fifteen minutes (15-min)), (xvii)
obtain a certain number of losing outcomes in a row, and/or (xviii)
not get into a bonus round.
[0020] In some embodiments, the first condition may be associated
with other interactions of the first player with the first gaming
device. The first condition may comprise, for example, a
requirement that the first player utilize a player tracking card to
play at the first gaming device and/or earn a certain number of
complimentary ("comp") points via the first gaming device.
Similarly, the first condition may be associated with actions of
the first player that are not necessarily performed via the first
gaming device (and/or solely vie the first gaming device). Such
actions may comprise, for example, the first player (i) signing up
for a player tracking card and/or account, (ii) purchasing and/or
signing up for a premium level player account, (iii) registering at
a hotel and/or casino property (e.g., making a reservation at a
hotel-casino and/or checking into the hotel-casino), (iv) making a
purchase at a hotel, casino, and/or retail store (e.g., making a
purchase at a hotel gift shop, eating at a casino restaurant,
and/or purchasing gas at a particular gas station), and/or (v)
signing up for and/or make a purchase with a particular credit
and/or debit account (e.g., sign up for and/or use a co-branded
and/or private label credit card associated with the casino, gaming
device manufacturer, and/or other sponsor).
[0021] According to some embodiments, the first condition may
comprise a requirement that events at least partially external to
the first gaming device occur. In other words, the first condition
may be associated with a particular time of day, day of the week,
etc. (e.g., players may be qualified for post-play benefits during
periods of expected and/or actual low foot traffic and/or low
gaming device utilization rates, on a player's birthday, and/or on
the last day of a player's vacation) and/or with the occurrence
and/or particular resolution of a specific event (such as a
sporting event outcome, etc.). In some embodiments, a conditional
event may be associated with other gaming devices and/or games. The
first player may earn a certain number of comp points due to play
at any of a variety of gaming devices and/or games of a casino to
satisfy the first condition, for example, and/or may complete a
"scavenger hunt"-style requirement.
[0022] In order to satisfy the first condition, for example, the
first player may be required to play at a certain number, type,
and/or order of gaming devices and/or achieve certain values of
play parameters (e.g., balances, winnings, outcomes, and/or
durations) at various gaming devices. In such a manner, for
example, the first player may be required to complete gaming
actions that increase traffic at under-utilized gaming devices,
introduce the first player to a new gaming device and/or type,
and/or otherwise desirably direct play of the first player. To
promote foot traffic and/or exposure of areas of a casino floor,
for example, the first player may be provided with a map, clues,
and/or other indications directing the first player to play at
various gaming devices on the casino floor. Advantages and
applications of such a "scavenger hunt" are described in U.S. Pat.
No. 6,364,765 entitled "ELECTRONIC AMUSEMENT DEVICE OFFERING
SECONDARY GAME OF CHANCE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING SAME", filed on
Jul. 1, 1998 in the name of Walker et. al, and issued on Apr. 2,
2002, the scavenger-hunt-type concepts and descriptions of which
are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
[0023] In some embodiments, the first condition may simply comprise
the registering of the first player for post-play benefit
opportunities. The first player may interface with a customer
service representative (e.g., at a customer service desk), a kiosk,
a website, an Interactive Voice Response Unit (IVRU), the first
gaming device, another device (e.g., a peripheral device), and/or
any combination thereof, for example, to register for post-play
benefits. In some embodiments, registering may comprise paying a
fee (e.g. a post-play benefits registration fee) or providing
another form of consideration (e.g., agreeing to perform an
activity), securing an amount of funds via a credit card, and/or
redeeming an amount of comp points. According to some embodiments,
only preferred players, such as players that have purchased tickets
to a casino show, registered guests of a hotel-casino, high-value
players (e.g., player deemed to be of a certain value, based on
their play history, to the casino), and/or other Very Important
People (VIP) may be able to register for and/or receive post-play
benefits (e.g., as an incentive and/or reward in itself.
[0024] In the case that the first condition is determined to be
satisfied (and/or complied with), the first player may be deemed to
be qualified for and/or registered for post-play benefits. In some
embodiments, such a qualification and/or registration may be
associated specifically with the first gaming device and/or may be
associated with a particular duration (e.g., the first player is
qualified and/or registered for one day, week, or year, and/or for
up to two gaming devices). In the case that the first condition is
determined not to be satisfied, the first player may be deemed to
be unqualified and/or unregistered for post-play benefits, and, in
some embodiments, the method 100 may simply end (and/or play at the
first gaming device and/or other gaming devices may progress
normally).
[0025] Regardless of how (and/or whether) the first player
pre-qualifies and/or registers for post-play benefits pursuant to
satisfaction of the first condition, the method 100 may continue,
according to some embodiments, at 104 by determining whether a
second condition associated with a second player of the gaming
device is satisfied. In some embodiments, the determination of the
second condition may generally occur after the determination of the
first condition, and/or the event (or events) associated with the
second condition may occur after the event (or events) associated
with the first condition. For example, the first player may qualify
and/or register for post-play benefits at the first gaming device
(at 102) and, after playing at the first gaming device, may
terminate such play (and/or move on to another gaming device, go
eat dinner, etc.). The second player may then, for example,
initiate play at the gaming device and/or trigger an event that
satisfies the second condition. The individual determinations
(e.g., at 102, 104) may be made (i) substantially as each
triggering event (or events) is detected or determined, (ii)
substantially upon the occurrence of an event (or events) that
satisfy the second condition, (iii) on a continuous and/or
substantially continuous manner (e.g., a server may continuously or
substantially continuously monitor an operation of a gaming device
to make one or more of the determinations 102 and 104), and/or (iv)
at pre-determined intervals (e.g., every hour and/or every one
hundred (100) plays, spins, or hands).
[0026] The second condition may generally comprise any requirement
similar to the requirements noted with respect to the first
condition herein, except that the requirements of the second
condition may generally be applied to the second player. In other
words, the second condition may be associated with a requirement
that the second player (i) play at a specific gaming device (e.g.,
the first gaming device and/or another gaming device previously
played by the first player), (ii) play at a gaming device of a
specific manufacturer, and/or (iii) play one or more specific games
at a gaming device. In some embodiments, the second player may be
required to initiate play at the first gaming device (and/or
another gaming device) during a certain time period, such as within
one hour (1-hr) of the first player's termination of play at the
first gaming device.
[0027] According to some embodiments, the second condition may also
or alternatively comprise a requirement that the second player (i)
establish a certain credit balance at the first gaming device, (ii)
play for a certain time period at the first gaming device, (iii)
purchase and/or initiate a certain number of outcomes at the first
gaming device, (iv) purchase and/or initiate a certain number of
outcomes at the first gaming device within a certain period of
time, (v) wager a certain amount of money at the first gaming
device, (vi) wager a certain amount of money at the first gaming
device within a certain period of time, (vii) win a certain amount
of money at the first gaming device, (viii) win a certain amount of
money at the first gaming device within a certain period of time,
(ix) not win a certain amount of money at the first gaming device,
(x) not win a certain amount of money at the first gaming device
within a certain period of time, (xi) lose a certain amount of
money at the first gaming device, (xii) lose a certain amount of
money at the first gaming device within in a certain period of
time, (xiii) obtain a certain outcome at the first gaming device,
(xiv) obtain a certain outcome at the first gaming device within a
certain period of time, (xv) not obtain a certain outcome at the
gaming device or outcomes, and/or (xvi) not obtain a certain
outcome or outcomes at the gaming device within a certain period of
time.
[0028] In some embodiments, the particular requirements (and/or
portions thereof) associated with the second condition may be
determined, defined, and/or selected by the first player. Upon
qualifying and/or registering for post-play benefits (e.g., at
102), for example, the first player may be presented with a menu
from which the first player may select a particular outcome that
the second player must obtain (or not obtain) in order for the
first player to receive a post-play benefit associated with the
first gaming device. In some embodiments, such as in the case that
the first player must pay a fee for the opportunity to receive
post-play benefits, the fee may be based at least in part on the
requirements selected by the first player. For example, if the
first player designates an outcome, the obtaining of which by the
second player is to trigger a post-play benefit, the post-play
registration fee (and/or required prequalification event) may be
based upon the probability of the second player obtaining the
specified outcome.
[0029] According to some embodiments, the second player may
comprise a plurality of players. The second condition may be
satisfied, for example, in the case that a particular outcome is
obtained at the first gaming device by any or all of three (3)
players that play at the first gaming device subsequent to the
first player. Fewer or more subsequent players are similarly
contemplated. In some embodiments, the subsequent players may be
required to achieve a series of outcomes to satisfy the second
condition. In the case of video poker, for example, the subsequent
players of the first gaming device may be required to collectively
(although generally not simultaneously) obtain a set of hands such
a royal flush, three of a kind, and a full house. In the case that
any combination of the subsequent players obtains the three (3)
specified hands of the set (e.g., one subsequent player could
obtain the full house and a second subsequent player could obtain
the royal flush and the three of a kind), the second condition may
be determined to be satisfied.
[0030] In some embodiments, in the case that the second condition
is determined to be satisfied, post-play benefits may be deemed
available to the first player. The satisfaction of the second
condition may, in other words, trigger the availability of a
post-play benefit. Alternatively, in the case that the second
condition is determined not to be satisfied, post-play benefits may
be deemed currently unavailable to the first player. In some
embodiments, the determination of whether the second condition is
satisfied may be made repeatedly, such as during intervals within a
time period. The time period may comprise, for example, a time
period associated with the first player's eligibility for post-play
benefits, such as within one hour after the first player terminates
play at the first gaming device.
[0031] According to some embodiments, the method 100 may continue
at 106 by awarding, in the case that both the first and second
conditions are determined to be satisfied, a benefit to the first
player (or causing an award to be awarded to the first player, such
as by directing a device to award the benefit). In other words, in
some embodiments where the first player is determined to be
qualified for post-play benefits and one or more triggering
conditions is satisfied to make post-play benefits available, such
benefits may be conferred upon the first player. Post-play benefits
may comprise any number of rewards, incentives, discounts,
services, products, and/or other compensation and may be provided
to the first player via various means and/or methods. In the case
that the first player has moved on to a second gaming device, for
example, the post-play benefits may be provided via the second
gaming device to the first player. Similarly, the first player
(and/or the second player) may be notified of the awarded benefits
via one or more of the first and second gaming devices, personal
devices, and/or a loud speaker, display device, or customer service
representative, waitress, etc. In some embodiments, the post-play
benefits may be credited to an account associated with the first
player (e.g., a player tracking account, hotel or room account,
and/or a bank or credit card account), mailed or e-mailed to the
first player, and/or provided to the first player via a
representative of the casino (e.g., who locates the first player on
the casino floor, in a hotel, and/or who holds the award--or access
thereto--at a customer service desk until the first player arrives
to redeem and/or receive the awarded benefits).
[0032] According to some embodiments, post-play benefits may
comprise one or more of any type or configuration of benefit that
is or becomes known or practicable. Post-play benefits may
comprise, for example, at least one of:
[0033] (i) a flat monetary amount (e.g., a certain, fixed amount of
money such as a twenty-five dollar ($25) jackpot amount). In some
embodiments, the first player may receive a flat monetary amount
equal to an amount of "buy-in" that the first player provided to
the gaming device. In other words, the first player may get back
whatever amount the player tendered to the machine;
[0034] (ii) a tiered monetary amount (e.g., different triggering
conditions may yield, as post-play benefits, different flat
amounts. For example, if a second player wins, at a first gaming
device, an amount between one hundred dollars ($100) and two
hundred dollars ($200), the first player may win, as a post-play
benefit, fifty dollars ($50), while if the second player wins, at
the first gaming device, an amount between two hundred and one
dollars ($201) and three hundred dollars ($300), the first player
may win, as a post-play benefit, seventy-five dollars ($75));
[0035] (iii) a declining monetary amount (e.g., the farther the
first player is geographically from the first gaming device at the
time of the triggering condition, the less money the first player
will receive as a post-play benefit. Or, the more time that elapses
between the first player's last wager at a first gaming device and
the occurrence of a subsequent triggering condition, the less money
the first player will receive as a post-play benefit. Or, the more
time that elapses between the occurrence of a prequalification
condition and a subsequent triggering condition, the less money the
first player will receive as a post-play benefit);
[0036] (iv) a percentage of payouts (e.g., a first player may
receive) as a post-play benefit, a percentage of a second player's
winnings; it should be noted that any percentage of payouts
described herein may be generally associated with a second player
or may be associated with a second player's payouts from a certain
gaming device or devices, such as from the first gaming device). In
some embodiments, the second player's payout and/or winnings may be
split between the first and second players according to the
percentage of post-play benefits awarded, while in some
embodiments, the second player takes the full payout and/or
winnings and the first player receives an additional percentage
based on the payout and/or winnings;
[0037] (v) a tiered percentage of payouts (e.g., percentages differ
based on the amount of a second player's winnings. For example, a
first player may receive, as a post-play benefit, (a) twenty-five
percent (25%) of any amount that is won by the second player that
is less than one hundred dollars ($100), (b) thirty percent (30%)
of any amount between one hundred and one dollars ($101) and one
hundred and twenty-five dollars ($125) won by the second player,
and (c) thirty-five percent (35%) of any amount between one hundred
and twenty-six dollars ($126) and one hundred and fifty dollars
($150) won by the second player);
[0038] (vi) a declining percentage of payouts (e.g., percentages
may decline based on the distance between the first player and the
first gaming device at the time of a triggering condition. If the
first player is playing a second gaming device that is adjacent to
the first gaming device at the time the triggering condition is
satisfied, for example, the first player may win fifty percent
(50%) of the second player's winnings. However, if the first player
is playing at a second gaming device that is not within the same
bank of devices as the first gaming device, the first player may
only receive twenty-five percent (25%) of the second player's
winnings. Percentages may also or alternatively decline based on
the time elapsed between (1) the first player's last wager at the
first gaming device or the occurrence of the prequalification
condition, and (2) the triggering condition);
[0039] (vii) more than one post-play benefit payout (e.g.,
different triggering events may trigger different payout amounts,
and so a first player may receive more than one post-play benefit
payout in a given period of time);
[0040] (viii) a portion of a second player's net winnings (e.g. in
a sense, a first player may have a "lien" on the winnings of a
subsequent player or on a gaming device having subsequent player
such as for a certain period of time. For example, for ten minutes
(10-min) following the first player's last wager at a first gaming
device, any subsequent player who plays at the first gaming device
must forfeit five percent (5%) of net winnings to the first player.
In some embodiments, a message and/or other indication may be
provided to the subsequent players to alert them to the fact that
the first gaming device is associated with a "lien" by the first
player--such as via a count-down timer showing how much longer the
gaming device will be subject to the "lien" and/or an indication of
how much of any payout is subject to the "lien");
[0041] (ix) a payout probability change (e.g., a second gaining
device played by the first player may temporarily change from a
seventy-five percent (75%) payback machine to an eighty-five
percent (85%) payback machine upon the occurrence of a triggering
condition);
[0042] (x) a number of credits (e.g., one or more credits added to
a credit balance of a second gaming device played by the first
player);
[0043] (xi) a number of free spins and/or additional flat-rate play
time (e.g., at a second gaming device played by the first player
and/or at the first gaming device);
[0044] (xii) a particular outcome or portion thereof (e.g., a first
player may get an automatic "head start" towards a certain outcome
at a second gaming device. Such a head start may comprise, for
example, two bar symbols on a three or five-reel slot machine
and/or three cards towards a royal flush at a video poker
machine);
[0045] (xiii) a bonus round (e.g., the ability to participate in a
bonus round, such as the bonus round of a slot machine);
[0046] (xiv) an interface with a bonus device (e.g., a spin of a
bonus reel);
[0047] (xv) a comp or number of comp points (e.g., a free drink or
a number of comp points recorded in a database record corresponding
to the first player's player tracking card identifier);
[0048] (xvi) a coupon, discount, rebate, or the like (e.g., a
discount and/or rebate for purchases at on-property vendors or
other affiliated vendors);
[0049] (xvii) a number of downloads (e.g., the ability to download,
such as from a gaming device or kiosk to a personal device such as
a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a Personal Computer (PC), a
cell phone, or an Ipod.RTM., digital files such as ring tones,
music files, etc.);
[0050] (xviii) an available jackpot or jackpot size (e.g., the
ability of a first player to win a jackpot of the size that a
second player is eligible for, or actually won--such as even in the
case that a second gaming device played by the first player does
not typically allow such a jackpot);
[0051] (xix) a wager rebate (e.g., a rebate of a previous wager
such as a wager made at the first gaming device); or
[0052] (xx) network access (e.g., the ability to utilize a
communications network, such as a telephone network--such as for
free long-distance phone calls, Internet or wireless access,
etc.).
[0053] In some embodiments, the geographic position of the first
player may be utilized to determine the satisfaction of a condition
and/or to determine the nature and/or magnitude of an available
post-play benefit. As described herein, for example, the first
player may earn larger post-play benefits the nearer the first
player is located to the first gaming device when the post-play
benefits become available (e.g., upon the occurrence and/or
determination of the occurrence of one or more events satisfying
the second condition). Similarly, the post-play benefits may be
determined based on how close the first player is to a particular
location, such as a show or presentation, or may be at least
partially based upon historical movements of the first player (or
patterns thereof) throughout the casino floor and/or hotel).
[0054] The geographic position of the first player may be
determined and/or estimated in any number of ways that are or
become known or practicable. For example, the first player's
position or location may be determined based upon (i) which machine
the first player is playing at (e.g., via player tracking card
technology), (ii) whether the first player is logging onto a casino
website from a remote computer, (iii) where the first player's cell
phone is geographically located via cell tower triangulation
methods and/or Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates, and/or
(iv) whether the first player has checked out of a casino's
hotel.
[0055] According to some embodiments, the method 100 may also or
additionally comprise other processes related to the awarding of
post-play benefits to the first player. For example, in some
embodiments at least one outcome of the first gaming device may be
provided to the first player. The first player may, for example,
initiate and/or complete a session of play at the first gaming
device. Similarly, the first player's session of play may also or
alternatively be terminated. According to some embodiments, such as
in the case that post-play benefits indeed define benefits provided
to the first player after play at the first gaming device has
terminated, the awarding may take place after the termination of
play.
[0056] In some embodiments, one or more data records and/or other
information may be populated and/or updated in response to the
determinations of whether the first and/or second conditions are
satisfied. Records stored in a database, such as those described
elsewhere herein for example, may store indications of the
determinations. Similarly, information associated with an available
and/or triggered post-play benefit may be stored, populated, and/or
updated. Data stores, databases, fires, and/or other data
structures or information may be stored locally (e.g., at a gaming
device) and/or may be stored remotely (e.g., at a gaming server,
controller, and/or data repository). According to some embodiments,
such as in the case that post-play benefits are provided via a
gaming device and/or peripheral device, a signal may be generated
that instructs such a device to dispense and/or otherwise provide
an appropriate benefit.
[0057] According to some embodiments, one or more additional and/or
reward conditions may also or alternatively exist. Even after a
player qualifies for post-play benefits and such benefits become
triggered, for example, an additional requirement may need to be
satisfied prior to the player being allowed to redeem and/or
receive a benefit (e.g., a reward condition). The player may be
required to come back to a casino in one week, or on a certain
date, for example, or may be required to satisfy one or more other
conditions such as playing at a certain gaming device, playing a
certain type of game, etc. In some embodiments, either or both of
the prequalification conditions and the triggering conditions may
also or alternatively comprise multiple conditions. As described
herein, for example, a player may be required to play at several
different gaming devices and/or a second player may be required
both to obtain a specific outcome and do so within a particular
time frame. In some embodiments, the value and/or cost of a
post-play benefit may be at least partially based upon the number,
type, and/or difficulty associated with required conditions.
III. SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
[0058] Referring now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of a system 200
according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the
system 200 may be configured to perform and/or may be otherwise
associated with the method 100 described in conjunction with FIG.
1. The system 200 may comprise, for example, a controller 210
(e.g., a slot server of a casino) that is in communication, via a
communications network (not explicitly shown), with one or more
gaming devices 210a-n (e.g., slot machines and/or video poker
machines). The controller 210 may generally communicate with any or
all of the gaming devices 250a-n directly or indirectly, via a
wired or wireless medium, a combination of networks, or via any
appropriate communications means or combination of communications
means that is or becomes known or practicable. The gaming devices
250a-n and/or the controller 210 may communicate, for example,
through a Web site maintained by computers on a remote server or
over an on-line data network including commercial on-line service
providers, bulletin board systems and the like. Each of the gaming
devices 250a-n may generally comprise computers, such as those
based on the Intel.RTM. Pentium.RTM. processor, that are adapted to
communicate with the controller 210. Any number, type,
configuration, and/or number of types of gaming devices 250a-n may
be in communication with the controller 210. In some embodiments,
fewer or more controllers 210 and/or gaming devices 250a-n may be
provided in the system 200.
[0059] Some, but not all, possible communication networks that may
comprise the network or be otherwise part of the system 200
include: a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), the
Internet, a telephone line, a cable line, a radio channel, an
optical communications line, and/or a satellite communications
link. Possible communications protocols that may be part of the
system 200 may include, for example: Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP,
ATP, Bluetooth, and/or TCP/IP. Further, in some embodiments,
various communications protocols endorsed by the Gaming Standards
Association (GSA) of Fremont, Calif., may be utilized, such as (i)
the Gaming Device Standard (GDS), which may facilitate
communication between a gaming device and various component devices
and/or peripheral devices (e.g., printers and/or bill acceptors),
(ii) the Best of Breed (BOB) standard, which may facilitate
communication between a gaming device and various servers related
to play of one or more gaming devices (e.g., servers that assist in
providing accounting, player tracking, content management,
ticket-in/ticket-out and progressive jackpot functionality), and/or
(iii) the System-to-System (S2S) standard, which may facilitate
communication between game-related servers and/or casino property
management servers (e.g., a hotel server comprising one or more
databases that store information about booking and reservations).
Communication may be encrypted to ensure privacy and prevent fraud
in any of a variety of ways well known in the art, and/or may be
encoded or compressed as is or becomes desirable.
[0060] In some embodiments, a controller 210 may not be necessary
and/or preferred within the system 200. For example, one or more
embodiments may be practiced on a stand-alone gaming device 250n
and/or a first gaming device 250a in communication with a second
gaming device 250b (i.e., without a controller 210). In such
embodiments, any functions described herein as being performed by
the controller 210 or data described as stored on or by the
controller 210 may instead be performed by or stored on the one or
more gaming devices 250a-n.
[0061] In one embodiment, the controller 210 may be operable, via
the network, to (i) configure (or reconfigure) any or all of the
gaming devices 250a-n remotely, (ii) update software stored on any
or all of the gaming devices 250a-n and/or (iii) download software
and/or software components to any or all of the gaming devices
250a-n. For example, a database (e.g., a payout or probability
database) stored in the memory of gaming device 250a may be
altered, modified, or updated remotely, hot fixes may be applied to
software stored by the gaming device 250a, and/or new versions of
software may be downloaded to the gaming device 250a. Similarly,
any or all of the gaming device 250a-n may be programmed to
retrieve any or all such updates or information from another
device.
[0062] In one embodiment, controller 210 may be programmed to
perform any or all of the above functions based on, for example, an
occurrence of an event (e.g., a scheduled event), a satisfaction of
a condition receiving an indication from a qualified casino
employee and/or other person (e.g., a regulator) and/or receiving a
request from a player.
[0063] In one embodiment, any or all of the gaming devices 250a-n
may be operable to facilitate downloadable games such that games
available for play on a gaming device may be stored on a server
device (e.g., the controller 210) and downloaded to the gaming
device. In one embodiment, software components of the gaming device
may be remotely modified and/or updated by another device (e.g.,
the controller 210). For example, a payout or probability table
stored in the memory of gaming device may be altered, modified or
updated remotely, hot fixes may be applied to software stored by
the gaming device and/or new versions of software may be downloaded
to the gaming device. Similarly, the gaming device may be
programmed to retrieve any or all such updates or information from
another device, as appropriate and preferred. Any of the above
(e.g., downloading of a game, updating of software, modification of
a payout or probability table) may occur, for example, based upon
an occurrence of an event (e.g., a scheduled event), a satisfaction
of a condition, an indication being received from qualified casino
personnel or other entity (e.g., a regulator), and/or upon a
request from a player. In one embodiment, any or all of the gaming
devices 250a-n may comprise a thin client device controlled be a
server device (e.g., the controller 210).
[0064] In one or more embodiments, the system 200 may include
additional devices (not shown), such as one or more casino
personnel devices, one or more additional servers (e.g., a hotel
reservation server, an audio or video server, a benefits or rewards
server, and/or an inventory management server). In accordance with
one embodiment, a benefits or rewards server may comprise, for
example, a server storing information regarding post-play and/or
regular benefits available to players within a casino (or multiple
casinos). Of course, such information may also be stored at
controller 215, as described herein. One or more Point-Of-Sale
(POS) terminals (not shown) associated with one or more merchants
(also not shown) may also or alternatively be included in the
system 200.
[0065] In some embodiments, various casino employees may be
equipped with or otherwise utilize one or more casino personnel
devices (not shown), such as PDA devices or other computing devices
(e.g., PC terminals). A casino personnel device may comprise
various input devices (e.g., a keypad, a touch-sensitive display
screen, a card reader, and/or an infrared bar code scanner),
various output devices (e.g., a Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD)
screen), a processor, a memory and/or a communications port, as
described herein with respect to other devices. In some
embodiments, a casino personnel device may communicate with a
gaming device 250a-n, server or controller 210, kiosk, peripheral
device, and/or an inventory/reservation system of a
casino-maintained property (e.g. a hotel). Thus, a casino personnel
device may be configurable to, among other things, (i) read from
and/or write to one or more databases, (ii) assist in payments made
to players (e.g., a representative "scans" a cashless gaming
receipt and determines a value associated with the receipt, and if
the receipt is valid, provides payment equal to the value), (iii)
assist in payment made by players (e.g., a casino representative
may receive a payment from a player for a post-play benefit fee),
(iv) assist in registering players for a post-play benefit, and/or
(iii) execute or assist in the execution of various other processes
described herein.
[0066] For example, a casino employee may utilize a casino
personnel device to (i) obtain, display and/or view information
about available post-play benefits, (ii) register the player for
the post-play benefits, and/or (iii) receive a payment or means of
payment (e.g., a credit or debit card number) from a player in
exchange for an opportunity for the player to receive post-play
benefits. In one or more embodiments, a memory of a casino
personnel device may store one or more programs for executing
processes described herein, or portions thereof.
[0067] In some embodiments, various merchants (e.g., shops and/or
restaurants) may utilize POS computer terminals to facilitate
various processes described herein. For example, in some
embodiments, a player may win, earn or otherwise qualify to receive
post-play benefits by making purchases at a merchant. In another
example, a player may register at a merchant to qualify for the
opportunity to receive post-play benefits. Thus, in some
embodiments, merchants may utilize POS terminals to (i) determine a
player's eligibility to receive post-play benefits, (ii) transmit a
player's eligibility to receive post-play benefits, (iii) register
a player to receive post-play benefits, and/or (iv) receive a
payment from a player for the opportunity to receive post-play
benefits.
[0068] In some embodiments, POS terminals may be configured to read
from and/or write to one or more databases. Such POS terminals may
thus comprise various hardware and software described herein with
respect to other devices, and may communicate with (i) a casino
server or the controller 210, (ii) a gaming device 250a-n, (iii) an
inventory/reservation system (e.g., a computer terminal at a
theatre communicates with an inventory database to determine a
number of unsold seats for a certain event), and so on.
[0069] In some embodiments, various component devices (e.g., any or
all of the post-play benefit output devices, output devices, input
devices, and/or input-output devices described herein) may be
embodied as peripheral devices. For example, such devices may not
necessarily be components of a gaming device 250a-n, though they
may be configured in such a manner so as to communicate with one or
more gaming device processors or any other devices described
herein. For example, a peripheral device such as a large display
device may be associated with a plurality of gaming devices 250a-n,
and thus may not necessarily be considered a component of any one
gaming device 250a.
[0070] Further, in some embodiments, certain peripheral devices
such as card readers may be interchangeable between gaming devices
250a-n, and thus may be considered a component of a first gaming
device 250a while connected thereto, removed from the first gaming
device 250a, connected to a second gaming device 250b, and so on.
In other embodiments, various peripheral devices may never be
considered a component of a particular gaming device 250a-n. For
example, in some embodiments, a peripheral device such as a
Universal Serial Bus (USB)-based portable memory device may store
(i) one or more databases, such as the databases described herein,
and/or (ii) a program for executing one or more processes, such as
the processes described herein. Such a peripheral device may then
be utilized by casino personnel for upgrading/retrofitting existing
gaming devices 250a-n, as described herein.
IV. DEVICE ARCHITECTURES
[0071] Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram of a controller 310
according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the
controller 310 may be configured to perform and/or may be otherwise
associated with the method 100 described in conjunction with FIG.
1. The controller 310 may be similar in configuration and/or
functionality, for example, to the controller 210 described in
conjunction with FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the controller 310
may be implemented as a system controller, a dedicated hardware
circuit, an appropriately programmed general-purpose computer,
and/or any other equivalent electronic, mechanical or
electro-mechanical device. The controller 310 may comprise, for
example, a server computer operable to communicate with one or more
client devices, such as one or more gaming devices (e.g., the
gaming devices 250a-n described in conjunction with FIG. 2), one or
more kiosks, one or more peripheral devices, and/or one or more
casino personnel devices. The controller 310 may, according to some
embodiments, be operative to manage the system 100 of FIG. 1 to
execute some or all of the methods (such as the method 100 of FIG.
1) described herein.
[0072] In operation, the controller 310 may generally function
under the control of a casino, another merchant, and/or other
entity that may also control use of the gaming devices 250a-n of
FIG. 2. For example, the controller 310 may be a slot server in a
casino. In some embodiments, the controller 310 and a slot server
may be different devices. In some embodiments, the controller 310
may comprise a plurality of computers operating together. In some
embodiments, the controller 310 and a gaming device may be the same
device.
[0073] The controller 310 may, according to some embodiments,
comprise a processor 312, such as one or more Intel.RTM.
Pentium.RTM. processors. The processor 312 may be in communication
with a communication port 314 (e.g., for communicating with one or
more other devices, such as the one or more gaming devices 250a-n
of FIG. 2), and a memory 316. The memory 316 may comprise an
appropriate combination of magnetic, optical, and/or semiconductor
memory, and may include, for example, Random Access Memory (RAM),
Read-Only Memory (ROM), a compact disc, and/or a hard disk. The
processor 312 and the memory 316 may each be, for example: (i)
located entirely within a single computer or other device, or (ii)
coupled to each other by a remote communication medium, such as a
serial port cable, telephone line, or radio frequency transceiver.
In one embodiment, the controller 310 may comprise one or more
devices that are connected to a remote server computer for
maintaining databases.
[0074] The memory 316 may generally store a program 318 for
controlling the processor 312. The processor 312 may perform
instructions of the program 318, for example, and thereby operate
in accordance with embodiments described herein. The program 318
may be stored in a compressed, un-compiled, and/or encrypted
format. The program 318 may also or additionally include program
elements that may be necessary, such as an operating system, a
database management system, and/or "device drivers" for allowing
the processor 312 to interface with computer peripheral devices.
The program 318 may, according to some embodiments, include
computer program code that allows the controller 310 to employ the
communication port 314 to communicate with a gaming device (e.g.,
the gaming devices 250a-n of FIG. 2) in order to, for example:
[0075] 1. track gambling activity performed at the gaming device;
[0076] 2. track gaming activities of individual players; [0077] 3.
track gaming session activities at the gaming device; [0078] 4.
determine whether post-play benefits have been activated and/or are
available at a gaming device; [0079] 5. determine whether a player
qualifies for post-play benefits associated with a gaming device;
[0080] 6. determine whether a player has registered for post-play
benefits at a gaming device; [0081] 7. instruct a gaming device to
perform one or more functions (e.g., output a specific post-play
benefit and/or notification thereof); [0082] 8. determine whether a
player has provided a selection of available post-play benefits;
determine a location of a player; [0083] 9. determine whether a
player has provided a payment in exchange for the opportunity to
receive post-play benefits; and/or [0084] 10. manage play or other
operation of the gaming device (e.g., by altering a payout
percentage, outcome, and/or credit balance in accordance with a
post-play benefit).
[0085] According to an embodiment, the instructions of the program
318 may be read into a main memory from another computer-readable
medium, such as from a ROM to RAM. Execution of sequences of the
instructions in program 318 may generally cause the processor 312
to perform the processes described herein. In alternate
embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of, or in
combination with, software instructions for implementation of such
processes. Thus, embodiments are not limited to any specific
combination of hardware and software.
[0086] The memory 316 may also or alternatively store a player
database 320 and/or a post-play benefit database 340. In some
embodiments (e.g., in an embodiment in which the controller 310
manages downloadable games playable on one or more gaming devices),
the memory 316 may store additional databases (not shown). Examples
of such additional databases may include, but are not limited to:
(i) a gaming device database that stores information related to one
or more gaming devices with which the controller 310 is operable to
communicate, (ii) a game database that stores information regarding
one or more games playable on and/or downloadable to one or more
gaming devices, and/or (iii) a scheduling and/or configuration
database useful for determining which games are to be made
available on which gaming devices.
[0087] Similarly, in one embodiment the controller 310 may be
operable to configure a gaming device remotely, update software
stored on a gaming device, and/or to download software or software
components to a gaming device. For example, the controller 310 may
be operable to apply a hot fix to software stored on a gaming
device, modify a payout and/or probability table stored on a gaming
device, and/or transmit a new version of software and/or a software
component to a gaming device. The controller 310 may be programmed
to perform any or all of the above functions based on, for example,
an occurrence of an event (e.g., a scheduled event), receiving an
indication from a qualified casino employee, and/or other person
(e.g., a regulator), and/or receiving a request and/or indication
from a player.
[0088] Although the databases 320, 340 are described as being
stored in a memory of the controller 310, in other embodiments some
or all databases 320, 340 may be partially or wholly stored, in
lieu of or in addition to being stored in a memory of the
controller 310, in a memory of one or more other devices. Such one
or more other devices may comprise, for example, one or more
peripheral devices, one or more gaming devices (such as the gaming
device 250a-n of FIG. 2), a slot server (if different from the
controller 310), another device, and/or any combination thereof.
Further, some or all of the data described as being stored in the
memory 316 may be partially or wholly stored (in addition to or in
lieu of being stored in the memory 316) in a memory of one or more
other devices. Such one or more other devices may comprise, for
example, one or more peripheral devices, one or more gaming
devices, a slot server (if different from controller 310), another
device, and/or any combination thereof.
[0089] Referring now to FIG. 4, a block diagram of a gaming device
450 according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments,
the gaming device 450 may be similar in configuration and/or
functionality to the gaming devices 250a-n described in conjunction
with FIG. 2. The gaming device 450 may, for example, be associated
with performing, executing, and/or facilitating the method 100
described in conjunction with FIG. 1.
[0090] In some embodiments, the gaming device 450 may be
implemented as a system controller, a dedicated hardware circuit,
an appropriately programmed general-purpose computer, and/or any
other equivalent electronic, mechanical or electromechanical
device. The gaming device 450 may comprise, for example, a slot
machine, a video poker terminal, a video blackjack terminal, a
video keno terminal, a video lottery terminal, a pachinko machine,
and/or a table-top game (e.g., a mechanical or electro-mechanical
device may be associated with a table game and be operable by a
player and/or a dealer).
[0091] In some embodiments, a gaming device 450 may comprise a PC
(e.g., which may communicate with an online casino website), a
telephone (e.g., to communicate with an automated sports book that
provides gaming services), and/or a portable handheld gaming device
(e.g., a PDA, Nintendo.TM. GameBoy.RTM. or Sony.TM. PSP.RTM., a
dedicated personal hand-held gaming device provided by a casino,
and/or any combination thereof). In some embodiments, a user device
such as a PDA or cell phone (not explicitly shown) may be used in
place of, or in addition to, some or all of the components of the
gaming device 450. Further, the gaming device 450 may comprise a PC
or other device operable to communicate with an online casino and
facilitate game play at the online casino. In one or more
embodiments, the gaming device 450 may comprise a computing device
operable to execute software that simulates play of, for example, a
reeled (mechanical or video) slot machine game, video poker game,
video blackjack game, video keno game, video roulette game, and/or
lottery game. In another embodiment, the gaming device 450 may
comprise a hand-held device operable to display the results of a
table game, slot machine game, keno game, and/or other game being
executed on a casino floor.
[0092] In one embodiment, the gaming device 450 may be operable to
facilitate downloadable games such that games available for play on
the gaming device 450 may be stored on a server device (e.g., the
controller 210, 310 or another dedicated device) and downloaded to
the gaming device 450. In one embodiment, software components of
the gaming device 450 may be remotely modified and/or updated by
another device (e.g., the controller 210, 310 or another device).
For example, a payout or probability table stored by the gaming
device 450 may be altered, modified or updated remotely, hot fixes
may be applied to software stored by the gaming device 450, and/or
new versions of software may be downloaded to the gaming device
450. Similarly, the gaming device 450 may be programmed to retrieve
any or all such updates from another device, as appropriate and/or
preferred. Any of the above (e.g., downloading of a game, updating
of software, modification of a payout or probability table) may
occur, for example, based upon the occurrence of an event (e.g., a
scheduled event), an indication being received from qualified
casino personnel or other personnel (e.g., a regulator), and/or
upon a request from a player. In one embodiment, the gaming device
450 may comprise a thin client device controlled be a server device
(e.g., the controller 210, 310 or another dedicated device).
[0093] The gaming device 450 may generally comprise a processor
452, such as one or more Intel.RTM. Pentium.RTM. processors. The
processor 452 may generally be in communication with a
communications port 454 (e.g., for communicating with one or more
other devices, such as the controller 210, 310) and/or a memory
456. The memory 456 may comprise any appropriate combination of
magnetic, optical, and/or semiconductor memory, and may include,
for example, RAM, ROM, a compact disc, and/or a hard disk. The
memory 456 may comprise or include any type of computer-readable
medium. The processor 452 and the memory 456 may each be, for
example: (i) located entirely within a single computer or other
device, or (ii) connected to each other by a remote communication
medium, such as a serial port cable, telephone line or radio
frequency transceiver. In one embodiment, the gaming device 450 may
comprise one or more devices that are connected to a remote server
computer for maintaining databases.
[0094] The memory 56 may generally store a program 458 for
controlling the processor 452. The processor 452 may perform
instructions of the program 458, for example, and thereby operate
in accordance with embodiments described herein. The program 458
may be stored in a compressed, un-compiled, and/or encrypted
format. The program 458 may also or alternatively include program
elements that may be necessary and/or desired, such as an operating
system, a database management system, and/or "device drivers" for
allowing the processor 452 to interface with computer peripheral
devices.
[0095] According to some embodiments, the instructions of the
program 458 may be read into a main memory from another
computer-readable medium, such as from a ROM to RAM. Execution of
sequences of the instructions in program 458 may cause the
processor 452 to perform, for example, some or all of the processes
described in conjunction with the method 100 of FIG. 1. In some
embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of, or in
combination with, software instructions for implementation of such
processes. Thus, embodiments described herein are not limited to
any specific combination of hardware and software.
[0096] The memory 456 may also or alternatively store a plurality
of databases, such as a post-play benefits database 460. The
post-play benefits database 460 may be stored in the memory 456 in
tabular form or any other appropriate database or data storage form
or structure that is or becomes known or practicable. The data
stored therein may include a number of exemplary records or
entries, each defining information associated with a potential
post-play benefit. It should be understood that the post-play
benefits database 460 might include any number of entries. The
tabular representation may also define fields for each of the
entries or records.
[0097] In one or more embodiments, the gaming device 450 may store
one or more additional databases (not shown). For example, the
gaming device 450 may store a probability database and/or a payout
database. The fields of a probability database may specify, for
example: (i) a random number (or range of random numbers) that may
be generated by a random number generator 462, and/or (ii) an
outcome that indicates the one or more indicia comprising the
outcome that corresponds to the random number of a particular
record. The gaming device 450 may utilize a probability database to
determine, for example, what outcome corresponds to a random number
generated by the random number generator 462 and to display the
determined outcome. The outcomes may comprise the three symbols to
be displayed along the payline of a three-reel slot machine, for
example. Other arrangements of probability databases are possible.
For example, the book "Winning At Slot Machines" by Jim Regan
(Carol Publishing Group Edition, 1997) illustrates examples of
payout and probability tables and how they may be derived. The
payout and probability concepts and descriptions of which are
hereby incorporated by reference herein.
[0098] The fields of a payout database may specify, for example:
(i) an outcome, which indicates the one or more indicia comprising
a given outcome, and (ii) a payout that corresponds to each
respective outcome. If the gaming device 450 comprises a three-reel
slot machine, for example, the outcomes may be those obtained on a
three-reel slot machine.
[0099] The gaming device 450 may generally utilize a payout
database to determine whether a payout should be output to a player
as a result of an outcome obtained for a game. For example, after
determining the outcome to output on the gaming device, the gaming
device may access the payout database to determine whether the
outcome for output is one of the outcomes stored as corresponding
to a payout. If it is, the gaming device may provide the
corresponding payout to the player via a benefit output device.
Other arrangements of payout databases are possible.
[0100] Although the post-play benefits database 460 is described as
being stored in the gaming device 450, in other embodiments the
post-play benefits database 460 database (as well as any other
database described as being stored in the memory 456) may be
partially or wholly stored (in addition to or in lieu of being
stored in the gaming device 450) in one or more other devices (not
shown in FIG. 4). Such other devices may comprise, for example, (i)
one or more peripheral devices, (ii) a peripheral device server,
(iii) the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3, (iv) another
device, and/or (v) a combination thereof. Further, some or all of
the data described as being stored in the post-play benefits
database 460 and/or in the memory 456 may be partially or wholly
stored (in addition to or in lieu of being stored in the gaming
device 450) in a memory of one or more other devices. Such devices
may comprise, for example, (i) one or more peripheral devices, (ii)
a peripheral device server, (iii) the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2
and/or FIG. 3, (iv) another device, and/or (v) a combination
thereof.
[0101] In one or more embodiments, the gaming device 450 may be
operable to access the data stored on or by these other devices
and/or have information associated with the data stored therein
downloaded to the gaming device 450 as is necessary and/or
appropriate. For example, the gaming device 450 may access a memory
of another device to determine the eligibility of a player to
receive a post-play benefit and/or information defining the
post-play benefit.
[0102] In some embodiments, the processor 452 may also or
alternatively be operable to communicate with the random number
generator 462, which may be a component of the gaming device 450.
The random number generator 462, in accordance with at least one
embodiment, may generate data representing random or pseudo-random
values (referred to as "random numbers" herein). The random number
generator may generate a random number every predetermined unit of
time (e.g., every second) and/or in response to an event such as an
initiation of a game play on the gaming device 450 or receipt of a
signal from another device. In the former embodiment, the generated
random numbers may be used as they are generated (e.g., the random
number generated at substantially the time of game play initiation
is used for that game play) and/or stored for future use. A random
number generated by the random number generator 462 may be used by
the processor 452 to determine, for example, an outcome for a game
play, a payout associated with an outcome, and/or which of a
plurality of payouts to provide as the result of an outcome.
[0103] The random number generator 462, as used herein, may be
embodied as a processor separate from, but working in cooperation
with, the processor 452. Alternatively, the random number generator
462 may be embodied as an algorithm, program component,
micro-engine, and/or software stored in the memory 456 of the
gaming device 450 and used to generate a random number.
[0104] Note that, although the generation or obtainment of a random
number is described herein as involving the random number generator
462 of the gaming device 450, other methods of determining a random
number may be employed. For example, an owner or operator of the
gaming device 450 may obtain sets of random numbers that have been
generated by another entity. HotBits.TM., for example, is a service
that provides random numbers that have been generated by timing
successive pairs of radioactive decays detected by a Geiger-Muller
tube interfaced to a computer. In another example, a blower
mechanism that uses physical balls with numbers thereon may be used
to determine a random number by randomly selecting one of the balls
and determining the number thereof.
[0105] In yet another example, another device remote from and/or
distinct from the gaming device 450 (e.g., the controller 210, 310
of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3) may include the random number generator
462 that generates random numbers to be provided to the gaming
device 450. For example, in some embodiments, the gaming device 450
may receive random numbers and/or any other data related to the
random or pseudo-random determination of an outcome from a separate
device, such as a server. It should be noted that such embodiments
may be advantageous in environments or jurisdictions wherein the
"central determination" of outcomes is required by regulation or
otherwise preferred. Thus, for example, outcomes may be determined
centrally by a server, and then propagated (e.g., electronically)
such that indications of the outcomes may be viewed using one or
more gaming devices 450 (e.g., "Class II" gaming devices, thin
client devices of a central-determination "Class III" gaming
network, Video Lottery Terminals, and so on).
[0106] The processor 452 may also or alternatively be operable to
communicate with one or more benefit output devices 464, which may
comprise one or more components of the gaming device 450. The
benefit output device 464 may, for example, comprise one or more
devices for outputting a benefit (e.g., a standard and/or jackpot
payout and/or a post-play benefit) to a player of the gaming device
450. For example, in one embodiment the gaming device 450 may
provide coins and/or tokens as a benefit or post-play benefit. In
such an embodiment the benefit output device 464 may comprise a
hopper and/or hopper controller, for dispensing coins and/or tokens
into a coin tray (not shown) of the gaming device 450.
[0107] In another example, the gaming device 450 may provide a
receipt or other document on which there is printed an indication
of a benefit or post-play benefit. For example, the gaming device
may be operable to output one or more cash-out tickets, coupons,
show tickets, or vouchers. In such an embodiment the benefit output
device 464 may comprise a printing mechanism and/or a document
dispensing mechanism.
[0108] In yet another example, the gaming device 450 may provide
electronic credits as a benefit or post-play benefit (which, e.g.,
may be subsequently converted to coins and/or tokens and dispensed
from a hopper into a coin tray). In such an embodiment the benefit
output device 464 may comprise a credit meter balance and/or a
processor that manages the amount of electronic credits that is
indicated on a display of a credit meter balance. In some
embodiments, this processor may be or include the processor 452
and/or another processing device.
[0109] In yet another example, the gaming device 450 may credit a
monetary amount to a financial account associated with a player as
a benefit or post-play benefit provided to a player. The financial
account may be, for example, a credit card account, a debit
account, a charge account, a checking account, and/or a casino
account. In such an embodiment the benefit output device 464 may
comprise a device for communicating with a server on which the
financial account is maintained.
[0110] Note that, in one or more embodiments, the gaming device 450
may include more than one benefit output device 464 or more than
one type of benefit output device 464. For example, the gaming
device 450 may include each of (i) a hopper and hopper controller
combination, (ii) a credit meter balance, and (iii) a document
printing and dispensing combination. Such a gaming device 450 may
be operable to provide more than one type of benefit to a player of
the gaming device 450. A single benefit output device 464 may,
according to some embodiments, be operable to output more than one
type of benefit. For example, a benefit output device 464 may be
operable to increase the balance of credits in a credit meter and
communicate with a remote device in order to increase the balance
of a financial account associated with a player. In some
embodiments, the benefit output device 464 may be operable to alter
or set the credit balance of another gaming device (e.g., separate
and/or remote from the gaming device 450 of FIG. 4). In the case
that a player earns or otherwise receives a post-play benefit while
playing at another gaming device, for example, the benefit output
device 464 may provide an indication to the other gaming device,
where the indication is directed to providing the benefit to the
player via the other gaming device.
[0111] In some embodiments, the processor 452 may also or
alternatively be operable to communicate with one or more display
devices 466, which may be or include one or more components of
gaming device 450. The display device 466 may comprise, for
example, one or more display screens or areas for outputting
information related to game play on the gaming device 450, such as
a cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor, a LCD screen, and/or light
emitting diode (LED) screen.
[0112] In one or more embodiments, the gaming device 450 may
comprise more than one display device 466. For example, the gaming
device 450 may comprise an LCD display for displaying electronic
reels, a display area that displays rotating mechanical reels, and
an LED display of a player tracking device 468 that outputs
information to a player.
[0113] The processor 452 may also or alternatively be in
communication with one or more other output devices (not shown)
besides the display device 466, for outputting information (e.g.,
to a player or another device). Such other output devices may also
be components of the gaming device 450. Such other output devices
may comprise, for example, an audio speaker (e.g. for outputting
audio information corresponding to audio/video content), a headset
or other private audio channel (e.g., for outputting supplemental
audio to a player), an infra-red transmitter, a radio transmitter,
an electric motor, a printer (e.g., such as for printing cashless
gaming vouchers), a ticket or product dispenser, an infra-red port
(e.g., for communicating with a second gaming device or a portable
device of a player), a Braille computer monitor, and/or a coin or
bill dispenser. Common output devices may include, for example, a
CRT monitor on a video poker machine, a bell on a gaming device 450
(e.g., rings when a player wins), an LED display of a player's
credit balance on a gaming device 450, and/or an LCD display of a
PDA for displaying keno numbers.
[0114] The display device 466 may comprise, according to some
embodiments, one or more display areas (not shown). For example,
one of the display areas may display outcomes of games played on
the gaming device 450 (e.g., electronic reels of the gaming device
450). Another of the display areas may display rules for playing a
game of the gaming device 450. Yet another of the display areas may
display the benefits (such as post-play benefits) obtainable by
playing a game of the gaming device (e.g., in the form of one or
more payout tables or a menu of available post-play benefits or
conditions). In some embodiments, one or more of the display areas
of the display device 466 may be operable to provide notifications
of post-play benefits to a player. Such a notification may
comprise, for example, a notification to the current player of the
gaming device 450 that someone else has won post-play benefits due
to the current player's actions or achievements, or a notification
associated with post-play benefits a current player of the gaming
device 450 has won from another gaming device.
[0115] In one or more embodiments, the gaming device 450 may
include more than one display device 466, one or more other output
devices, or a combination thereof (e.g., two display devices 466,
two audio speakers, and a headset). In one embodiment, a first
display area and a second display area may comprise two distinct
areas of the same display device 466 (e.g., a slit screen or a
window within a screen).
[0116] The processor 452 may also or alternatively be in
communication with an input device 468, which may be a device that
is capable of receiving an input (e.g., from a player or another
device, such as a selection of an option or feature available on
the gaming device, such as a selection of and/or registration for a
post-play benefit) and which may be a component of the gaming
device 450. The input device 468 may communicate with or be part of
another device (e.g., the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG.
3, and/or another gaming device). For example, a player may use a
touch screen input device 468 to indicate a desire to view types of
post-play benefits available (e.g., for purchase) and/or to view a
status of a payment or payment identifier previously provided by
the player (e.g., as a means of payment for the opportunity to
receive post-play benefits).
[0117] Some other examples of possible input devices 468 include: a
bar-code scanner, an optical scanner configured to read other
indicia of a voucher or cashless gaming ticket, a Charge-Coupled
Device (CCD) camera, a magnetic stripe reader (e.g., for reading
data encoded upon a player tracking card), a smart card reader
(e.g., for reading data stored upon a smart card), a computer
keyboard or keypad, a button, a handle, a lever, a keypad, a
touch-screen, a microphone, an infrared sensor, a voice recognition
module, a coin or bill acceptor, a sonic ranger, a computer port, a
video camera, a motion detector, a digital camera, a network card,
a USB port, a GPS receiver, a Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID)
receiver, an RF receiver, a thermometer, a pressure sensor, an
Infrared Radiation (IR) port (e.g., for receiving communications
from a second gaming device or from a another device such as a
smart card or PDA of a player), and/or a weight scale. Common input
devices may include a button or touch screen on a video poker
machine, a lever or handle connected to the gaming device 450, a
magnetic stripe reader to read a player tracking card, and/or
contract card inserted into the gaming device 450, a touch screen
for input of player selections during game play, a paper ticket
acceptor for accepting paper tickets such as cash-out tickets and a
coin and bill acceptor.
[0118] In some embodiments, the gaming device 450 may comprise
components capable of facilitating both input and output functions
(i.e., input/output devices). In one example, a touch-sensitive
display screen comprises an both an input device 468 and an output
device such as the display device 466 (e.g., the device outputs
graphics and receives selections from players). In another example,
the processor 452 may communicate with a "ticket-in/ticket-out"
device configured to dispense and receive cash-out tickets. Such a
device may also assist in (e.g., provide data so as to facilitate)
various accounting functions (e.g., ticket validation and
redemption). For example, any or all of the gaming device 450,
kiosk, and casino personnel device maintained at a cashier cage may
(i) comprise such a benefit input/output device 464, 466, 468,
and/or (ii) communicate with a central server that manages the
accounting associated with such ticket-in/ticket-out transactions
(e.g., so as to track the issuance, redemption and expiration of
such tickets). One example of ticket-in/ticket-out technology that
may be adapted or utilized to implement embodiments described
herein is the EZ Pay.TM. system, which is manufactured by
International Gaming Technology (IGT), headquartered in Reno,
Nev.
[0119] Of course, it should be understood that the gaming device
450 may comprise various combinations of any or all of the
component devices described herein. For example, in one or more
embodiments, the gaming device 450 may include more than one
display device 466, one or more other output devices, several input
devices 468, and so on (e.g., two display screens, two audio
speakers, a headset, a ticket-in/ticket-out device and several
buttons).
[0120] The processor 452 may also or alternatively be in
communication with a payment system 470, which may be a component
of the gaming device 450. The payment system 470 may generally be a
device capable of accepting payment from a player (e.g., a bet or
initiation of a balance and/or a fee for registering for post-play
benefits).
[0121] Exemplary methods of accepting payment by the payment system
470 may include (i) receiving hard currency (i.e., coins or bills),
and accordingly the payment system 470 may comprise a coin or bill
acceptor, (ii) receiving an alternate currency (e.g., a cash-out
ticket, a coupon, a non-negotiable token), and accordingly the
payment system 470 may comprise a bar code reader or other sensing
means, (iii) receiving a payment identifier (e.g., a credit card
number, a debit card number, a player tracking card number, and/or
a code via a keypad or touch-screen), (iv) receiving a smart card
having an indication of an amount of currency stored thereon,
and/or (v) determining that a player has performed a value-added
activity (e.g., participating in surveys, monitoring remote images
for security purposes, referring friends to the casino).
[0122] The processor 405 may also or alternatively be operable to
communicate with a player tracking device 472, which may be a
component of the gaming device 450. Player tracking device 472 may,
in one or more embodiments, comprise a reader device operable to
read information from and/or write information to a card such as a
smart card and/or a player tracking card, such that (i) players may
be identified, and (ii) various data associated with players may
then be determined. For example, a player's gaming activity (e.g.,
which gaming deices 450 are played at) may be tracked to determine
a player's compliance with one or more requirements (such as a
"scavenger hunt requirement) associated with qualifying for and/or
triggering post-play benefits. Similarly, a number of cashable
credits available to the player may be determined, a number of
promotional credits that may not be redeemed for cash but that are
associated with the player may be determined, a code or other
indication of a benefit to be provided to the player may be
determined, a number of accumulated loyalty points associated with
the player may be determined, a number of accumulated game elements
such as symbols, cards or hands associated with the player may be
determined, etc. In one example, a card reader device may determine
an identifier associated with a player (e.g., by reading a player
tracking card comprising an encoded version of the identifier),
such that the gaming device may then access data (e.g., of a player
database and/or a session database) associated with the player. In
another example, a smart card reader device may determine data
associated with a player directly by accessing a memory of an
inserted smart card.
[0123] As described in more detail elsewhere herein, a player
database (such as the player database 320 of FIG. 3) may be used,
for example, to store player wager data (e.g., such that players
wagering over a given threshold in a given amount of time may be
rewarded for their patronage, qualify for post-play benefits, and
so on). The player database may also contain other information that
may be useful in, for example, promoting and managing player
behaviors (e.g., information about the player's gaming preferences,
lodging arrangements, and the like). Further, the player database
may store data regarding a given player's standing in a game
session and/or a bonus game, so that the player can continue the
game session and/or bonus game at a plurality of gaming device 450
that have common access to the player database. Such player data
may be stored in a relational database and retrieved or otherwise
accessed by the processor 452 after receiving a "key" data point
from the player, such as a unique identifier read from the player's
player tracking card or cashout ticket.
[0124] In one embodiment, the player tracking device 472 may
comprise (i) a card reader (e.g., a port into which player tracking
cards may be inserted), (ii) various input devices 468 (e.g., a
keypad, a touch-screen), (iii) various output devices (e.g., a
small, full-color display screen 466), and/or (iv) combinations
thereof (e.g., a touch-sensitive display screen that accommodates
both input and output functions). Various commercially available
devices may be suitable for such an application, such as the
NextGen.TM. interactive player tracking panel manufactured by IGT
or the iVIEW display screen manufactured by Bally.RTM. Gaming and
Systems.
[0125] As is known in the art, "smart cards" may incorporate (i) a
memory, and (ii) means for accessing such a memory. For example, in
one embodiment, the smart card memory may store data related to
aspects of embodiments described herein. In one embodiment, data
may be written to the smart card as a player plays one or more
gaming devices 450 (e.g., such that various data may be updated on
a continuous, periodic or event-triggered bases). Accordingly, in
one or more embodiments one or more devices operable to carry out
various processes (e.g., a gaming device 450 or the controller 210,
310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3) may have associated therewith a smart
card reader device, such that data may be read from the smart card
pursuant to the execution of such processes. An example of a smart
card system that may be used to implement one or more embodiments
is the s-Choice.TM. Smart Card Casino Management System from Smart
Card Integrators, Inc..TM.
[0126] Of course, other non-card-based methods of identifying
players are contemplated. For example, a unique identification code
may be associated with the player. The player may then be
identified upon entering the code. For example, the code may be
stored (e.g., within a database maintained within the gaming device
450 or the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3) such that
the player may enter the code using the input device 468 of the
gaming device 450 and accordingly allow the player to be uniquely
identified. In other embodiments, player biometrics may also or
alternatively serve as identification means (e.g., a player may be
identified via a thumbprint and/or retinal scan of the player). In
further embodiments, a barcode of a cashless gaming ticket may
encode a player identifier.
[0127] Thus, as described, various data associated with a player
may be tracked and stored (e.g., in an appropriate record of a
centrally-maintained database such as the player database 320 of
FIG. 3), such that it may be accessed as desired (e.g., when
registering and/or otherwise qualifying a player to receive
post-play benefits, when receiving a player's selection of a
preferred post-play benefit and/or associated conditions, when
receiving a payment from a player for the opportunity to receive
post-play benefits, and so on). Further, various statistics may be
measured in association with a player (e.g., coin-in statistics,
win/loss statistics, buy-in amount for a session) and similarly
accessed. As described herein, such statistics may be utilized to
determine if one or more conditions associated with post-play
benefits are satisfied.
[0128] Various systems for facilitating such monitoring of player
behavior and activity are contemplated. For example, a two-wire
system such as one offered by IGT may be used. Similarly, a
protocol such as the IGT SAS.TM. protocol or the IGT SuperSAS.TM.
protocol may be used. The SAS.TM. protocol and the SuperSAS.TM.
protocol each allows for communication between gaming machines and
slot accounting systems and provides a secure method of
communicating all necessary data supplied by the gaming device to
the online monitoring system. One aspect of the SAS.TM. protocol
and the SuperSAS.TM. protocol that may be beneficial in
implementing aspects of some embodiments is the authentication
function which allows operators and regulators to remotely
interrogate gaming devices 450 for important memory verification
information, for both game programs, and peripheral devices. In
another example, a one-wire system such as the OASIS.TM. System
offered by Aristocrat Technologies.TM. or the SDS slot-floor
monitoring system offered by Bally Gaming and Systems.TM. may be
used. Each of the systems described above is an integrated
information system that continually monitors slot machines and
customer gaming activity. Thus, for example, any one of these
systems may be used to monitor a player's gaming activity in order
to determine player outcomes, buy-in amounts, coin-in statistics,
win/loss statistics and/or any other data deemed relevant.
[0129] In one embodiment, a player may operate a plurality of
gaming devices 450. For example, a player may simultaneously play
two side-by-side gaming devices 450, a player may play one gaming
device 450 (e.g., a slot machine) and then continue a gaming
session at another gaming device 450 (e.g., a video poker machine),
and a player may remotely operate a gaming device 450, possibly by
using a telephone, PDA, headset or other device (i) to transmit
commands (directly or indirectly) to the gaming device 450, such as
wager amounts and commands to select certain cards, aid/or (ii) to
receive output (directly or indirectly) from the gaming device
450.
[0130] In one embodiment, a gaming device 450 may allow a player to
play a game of skill rather than a game of chance. Such an
embodiment may be more appealing to certain players or may be
permitted in areas where it is illegal to gamble on games of
chance.
[0131] In one or more embodiments, various aspects such as
facilitating play of a gaming device 450 under the terms of a
contract (e.g., providing a benefit or post-play benefit during a
period of time defined by the contract and/or monitoring the play
to determine compliance with the contract), may be practiced or
effectuated by changing (e.g., replacing, upgrading and/or
augmenting) one or more components (e.g., hardware and/or software
components) of an existing gaming device 450. Thus, in one or more
embodiments, processes may be applied as a retrofit or upgrade to
existing gaming devices currently available for play within various
casinos.
[0132] For example, the memory 456 (e.g., one or more computer
chips, hard drives or like structures) of the gaming device 450 may
be changed (e.g., replaced or added), in which the replacement
memory or additional memory stores a program (or portion of a
program) that includes instructions. These instructions direct the
processor 452 of the gaming device 450 to operate in accordance
with one or more embodiments. In another example, data output via
the gaming device 450 (e.g., graphical and/or textual data
displayed via the gaming device 450) may be replaced or added, the
replacement or additional data indicating to a player information
relevant to one or more aspects associated with post-play
benefits.
[0133] In a specific example, a gaming device 450 may comprise
various electronic components mounted to one or more Printed
Circuit Board (PCB) devices. Such components may include various
hardware described herein, such as the communications port 454 and
various controllers of peripheral devices (e.g., a display
controller), as well as the memory 456 for storing programming
instructions (software) and the processor 452 for carrying out such
instructions. Forms of memory 456 that may be found in the gaming
device 450 generally include Electronically Erasable Programmable
ROM (EEPROM), Erasable Programmable ROM (EPROM), and/or flash
memory. Thus, in one or more embodiments, an EPROM storing software
with instructions for carrying out aspects of some embodiments (as
well as instructions for carrying out other functions traditionally
performed by the gaming device 450) may replace an EPROM previously
installed in a gaming device 450 or may be reprogrammed in
accordance with one or more embodiments described herein, such that
the gaming device 450 may be configured to operate in accordance
with various processes described herein.
[0134] In an embodiment, the memory 456 need not be replaced, but
instead different data (e.g., a new program) can be stored on the
memory 456 (e.g., an upgraded version of a program previously
stored on the memory 456, a new program, a program which disables a
portion or all of a program previously stored on the memory 456).
Various manners are known for storing different or additional data
on a memory 456, included a complete copying a program or set of
programs from a local or remote memory storage device. For example,
a peripheral memory device may be connected to a gaming device 450
(e.g., connect via a memory bus of the gaming device 450), in which
the peripheral memory device directs the processor to ignore (fail
to execute) certain other programs or portions of programs stored
in other memory devices 456 (e.g., stored in an EEPROM present in
the gaming device 450).
[0135] For example, a "post-play benefits" module may be made
available for purchase to various casino operators. The module,
which may comprise various hardware and software (e.g., an EEPROM
storing software instructions), may be installed in an existing
gaming device 450 (e.g., a video-reel slot machine and/or a video
poker machine), such that when the module is installed, players of
the device may elect (i) to play the gaming device in a manner that
does not incorporate embodiments described herein, or (ii) to play
the gaming device in a manner that incorporates embodiments
described herein (e.g., be eligible for post-play benefits). Thus,
players who are familiar with operating a gaming device 450 may
elect to pay for them in a different or similar manner as they are
accustomed to.
[0136] Accordingly, the gaming device 450 may be configured to
allow a player to select one of two "modes" of the gaming device
450, and to enable the selected mode. If a player selects a
"standard" mode, the gaming device 450 may be configured to operate
in a manner similar to how it operated before the installation of
the module (e.g., the gaming device 450 operates in a conventional
manner, such that embodiments described herein may not be
utilized). If a player selects the "post-play benefits" mode, the
gaming device 450 may then be operable to execute game play in
accordance with one or more embodiments described herein.
[0137] In one example of allowing a player to select one or more
modes, a touch-sensitive display screen may be configured to output
a prompt asking a player to select a mode of operation. Such a
prompt may be output in occurrence to various trigger conditions
(e.g., coins, bills or tickets are inserted, a credit balance
increases from zero to some other number, a player presses a "play"
button, and/or a motion, weight, infrared or other sensor detects
the presence of a player). Accordingly, a player may select a mode
of operation (e.g., by pressing an appropriately labeled icon of a
touch-sensitive display screen), and upon receiving the player's
selection, the gaming device 450 may be configured to operate in
the selected mode.
[0138] In another embodiment, the gaming device 450 may be operable
to automatically determine whether it should switch modes from a
standard mode to a "post-play benefits" mode. A gaming device may
perform such a determination, for example, by evaluating data
received from a player and/or another device and/or by querying
another device. For example, the gaming device 450 may be
programmed to determine (e.g., upon receiving a player identifier
and based upon the player identifier) whether the player currently
playing the gaming device 450 qualifies to receive post-play
benefits (e.g., satisfaction of the first condition at 102 in the
method 100 of FIG. 1). In another embodiment, the gaming device 450
may be programmed to recognize that a player has requested and/or
otherwise qualifies for post-play benefits. Upon determining that
the player has indicated a desire to receive post-play benefits
and/or that the player qualifies to receive post-play benefits, the
gaming device 450 may further be programmed to retrieve and/or
output information associated with the post-play benefits.
[0139] For example, the gaming device 450 may be programmed to
access data (e.g., available post-play benefits and/or data
associated with the satisfaction of conditions necessary for
receiving post-play benefits) stored and/or available from on
another device (e.g., the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG.
3, and/or another gaming device 450) or query such other device for
an answer to the determination. If the gaming device 450 determines
that the player qualifies for post-play benefits and/or that
post-play benefits are available, the gaming device 450 may switch
from a standard mode to a "post-play benefits" mode. In "post-play
benefits" mode, for example, a gaming device 450 may be operable
provide post-play benefits, determine if post-play benefits are
available and/or have been won, and/or provide indications or
notifications associated therewith. In one embodiment, the gaming
device 450 may be operable to output an indication that it is
currently in "post-play benefits" mode (e.g., to inform the player
that the current play of the gaming device 450 is subject to a
"lien" of another player and/or that the current play is qualified
for post-play benefits). For example, the gaming device 450 may
turn on a light, change graphics, output a sound, etc.
[0140] In other embodiments, a peripheral device may be useful for
implementing one or more embodiments into the operation of a gaming
device 450. For example, in order to avoid or minimize the
necessity of modifying or replacing a program already stored in a
memory of a gaming device 450, an external or internal module that
comprises a peripheral device may be inserted in, connected to,
coupled to, and/or otherwise associated with the gaming device 450.
Such a peripheral device may be operable to, for example, monitor
and/or transmit information about a player's gaming activity at the
gaming device 450 to another device (e.g. the controller 210, 310
of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3, and/or another gaming device 450). The
peripheral device may monitor and/or transmit such information to
enable a determination of whether a player has qualified to receive
post-play benefits (e.g., whether the player has provided
appropriate payment and/or engaged in qualifying gaming or
non-gaming activity) and/or whether a player has won a post-play
benefit.
[0141] In still further embodiments, rather than configure gaming
devices 450 to execute embodiments described herein by installing
or connecting new hardware and/or software, software may be
downloaded into an existing memory of one or more gaming devices
450. U.S. Pat. No. 6,805,634 to Wells et al. teaches methods for
downloading data to gaming devices in such a manner. The
downloading and communication aspects, concepts, and descriptions
of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Thus, in some
embodiments, a gaming device 450 may be reprogrammed to accommodate
the new functionality of some embodiments without the need, and/or
by minimizing the need, to remove and replace hardware within the
gaming device 450.
[0142] In one embodiment, the gaming device 450 or another device
operable to carry out one or more embodiments described herein
(e.g. a kiosk) may be operable to output a menu of available
post-play benefits and/or options associated therewith to a player
via a player interface (not explicitly shown, although possibly
incorporating any of the benefit output device 464, the display
device 466, the input device 468, and/or the payment system 470. A
player interface may comprise, for example, a video screen that is
a touch screen operable to display such one or more such menus. A
menu so displayed to a player may provide the player with, for
example, a choice of available post-play benefits, a choice of
conditions via which post-play benefits may be triggered, and/or an
option to register for post-play benefits. In another example, a
menu so displayed to a player may provide the player with an
indication relating to the current availability of post-play
benefits (such as information associated with a second player's
actions and/or the current status of other conditions associated
with the triggering of post-play benefits). A player may be
presented with a menu of options via a touch screen, for example,
upon indicating a desire to consider options available via such a
menu and/or upon initiating play at the gaming device 450. A player
may select an option from such a menu by touching the area of the
screen on which the option appears.
[0143] It should be appreciated that one or more embodiments may
include storing graphic and/or sound elements that are used to
construct the menu of available options. These elements may be
stored, for example, in EEPROM, flash memory, a hard disk, CD-ROM,
and/or in any other suitable storage device. The menu may be
displayed via any suitable display device 466, such as a CRT, LCD,
VFC, and/or LED display. In one embodiment, the menu may be
implemented using only dedicated electromechanical switches. In one
embodiment, a player operates the input device 468 of the display
device 466, in order to cause the menu to be displayed. In one
embodiment, the device includes a touch screen and a touch screen
controller (not shown) associated with a video monitor display
device 466. The touch screen and touch screen controller may be
operable to communicate with a video controller of the video
monitor display device 466 and the processor 452. Thus, a player
may be enabled to indicate decisions (e.g., which post play
benefits are desired and/or which triggering conditions are
desired) by touching the touch screen in the appropriate
places.
[0144] In one embodiment, display of the menu preempts display of
other information. For example, in one embodiment the same display
device 466 or screen used to display indicia indicative of an
outcome by displaying the indicia as disposed along a payline
during active game play may be used to display a menu of available
post-play benefits. In another embodiment, a dedicated display
device 466 or screen may be used to display a menu of available
post-play benefits on a continuous, periodic, or other basis.
[0145] It should be noted that not all of the components described
herein as being components of gaming device 450 may be necessary
and/or preferred for a gaming device 450 operable to implement
embodiments described herein. For example, in embodiments in which
the gaming device 450 comprises a PC operable to access an online
casino, the random number generator 462 may not be a component of
the gaming device 450 but may rather be a component of a server
administering the online casino. In another example, the gaming
device 450 that comprises a PC may not necessarily include the
benefit output device 464 and/or the player-tracking device 472.
Other variations of hardware and/or system components or
configuration may also or alternatively be utilized to practice the
embodiments described herein.
V. DATA STRUCTURES
[0146] Examples of databases that may be used in connection with
embodiments herein (such as with respect to the system 200 of FIG.
2, the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3, and/or the
gaming devices 250, 450 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 4) will now be
described in detail with respect to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. Each figure
depicts a database in which the data is organized according to a
data structure consistent with some embodiments. The data may be
stored, for example, on a computer readable medium and be
accessible by a program executed on a data processing system. These
schematic illustrations and accompanying descriptions of the
databases presented herein are exemplary, and any number of other
database or data structure arrangements could be employed besides
(or in addition to) those suggested by the figures.
[0147] A. Player Database
[0148] Referring now to FIG. 5, a schematic view of a player
database 520 according to some embodiments is shown. In some
embodiments, the player database 520 may be similar in
configuration and/or functionality to the player database 320 of
FIG. 3. The player database 520 may include, for example, multiple
records having multiple fields of information. Specifically, the
player database 520 generally comprises multiple records, each
record being associated with a particular player, as identified by
a player ID number, and/or a gaming session or play associated with
the player. The fields within each record may include, for example:
a player ID field 522, a machine ID field 524, a time stamp field
526, a wager amount field 528, an outcome field 530, and/or a
payout field 532. Having information related to one field, such as
the player ID field 522, allows a server or other device (such as
the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3, and/or a gaming
device 250, 450) to retrieve all information stored in
corresponding fields 524, 526, 528, 530, 532 of that player record.
It is to be understood that not all of these fields 522, 524, 526,
528, 530, 532 are necessary for operation of some embodiments.
[0149] In some embodiments, the player ID field 522 may generally
store any type or configuration of identifier related to a player
such as a unique alphanumeric player identifier (e.g., as shown).
The identifier may comprise, for example, a player tracking number,
player account number, hotel guest room number, social security
number, etc. According to some embodiments, the machine ID field
524 may similarly provide an identifier for each machine that the
player plays at. As shown in FIG. 5, the player may play multiple
times and/or execute multiple outcomes at the same machine (e.g.,
machine ID "GMS-001"). The time stamp field 526 may generally
include a time stamp associated with the player's interaction with
the gaming device identified in the machine ID field 524. The time
stamp may be recorded when the player initiates play at the
machine, terminates play at the machine, receives an outcome via
the machine, and/or upon the occurrence of other pertinent events.
The time stamp may generally be utilized for player tracking and/or
auditing purposes.
[0150] The wager amount field 528 may generally store an indication
of an amount and/or magnitude of a wager that the player executes
at the identified gaming device. Similarly, the outcome field 530
and the payout field 532 may store indications of outcomes and
payouts, respectively, that the player has obtained via the gaming
device (e.g., for a specific handle pull, hand, and/or play).
[0151] According to some embodiments, the functionality of
determining player activities at a gaming device and/or plurality
of gaming devices may also or alternatively be tracked and/or
recorded by utilization of one or more machine databases. Each
gaming device in a casino may be associated with a database and/or
other information store, for example, in which a transaction
history including player identifiers and gaming session information
is stored. Such a database may include other machine-specific
information such as a location of the gaming device, a network
address of the gaming device, a serial number of the gaming device,
etc.
[0152] B. Post-Play Benefit Database
[0153] Turning to FIG. 6, a schematic view of a post-play benefits
database 640 according to some embodiments is shown. In some
embodiments, the post-play benefits database 640 may be similar in
configuration and/or functionality to the post-play benefits
database 340 of FIG. 3. The post-play benefits database 640 may
include, for example, multiple records having multiple fields of
information. Specifically, the post-play benefits database 640
generally comprises multiple records, each record being associated
with a particular post-play benefit and the conditions associated
therewith. The fields within each record may include, for example:
a post-play benefit ID field 642, condition fields 644a-c, and/or a
post-play benefit field 646. The condition fields 644a-c may
comprise, for example, a pre-qualification condition(s) field 644a,
a triggering condition(s) field 644b, and/or a other condition(s)
field 644c. Having information related to one field, such as the
post-play benefit ID field 642, allows a server or other device
(such as the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3 and/or a
gaming device 250, 450) to retrieve all information stored in
corresponding fields 644a, 644b, 644c, 646 of that post-play
benefit record. It is to be understood that not all of these fields
642, 644a-c, 646 are necessary for operation of some
embodiments.
[0154] In some embodiments, the post-play benefit ID field 642 may
generally store any type or configuration of identifier related to
a post-play benefit such as a unique alphanumeric player identifier
(e.g., as shown). According to some embodiments, the identifier may
be a simple code utilized to identify a specific post-play benefit
that is or may become available. The pre-qualification condition(s)
field 644a may generally store information associated with one or
more conditions or requirements that must be satisfied in order for
a player to qualify for the given post-play benefit. The conditions
stored in the pre-qualification condition(s) field 644a may, for
example, be or include the first condition analyzed at 102 of the
method 100 of FIG. 1.
[0155] Similarly, the conditions and/or requirements stored in the
triggering condition(s) field 644b may comprise one or more
conditions or requirements that must be satisfied to "trigger" the
given post-play benefit. In some embodiments, the conditions stored
in the triggering condition(s) field 644b may, for example, be or
include the second condition analyzed at 104 of the method 100 of
FIG. 1.
[0156] According to some embodiments, the information stored in the
other condition(s) field 644c may comprise information associated
with ancillary and/or supplemental conditions associated with a
given post-play benefit. Even after a player qualifies for a
post-play benefit that is triggered and/or activated, for example,
the player may be responsible for satisfying one or more extra
conditions to consummate the earning of the post-play benefit.
[0157] The post-play benefit field 646 may generally store
information indicative of the benefit or benefits that may be
earned in a post-play fashion by a player. In other words, the
post-play benefit information may define a monetary amount,
discount, free product or service, and/or other reward or benefit
that the player may obtain in the case that the conditions (e.g.,
the pre-qualification conditions, triggering conditions, and/or
other conditions) are satisfied.
VI. EXAMPLES
[0158] A. Examples based on exemplary stored data
[0159] With continued reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 and the
databases 520, 640 depicted therein, examples of certain
embodiments will now be presented. The examples provided herein are
solely exemplary in nature, are provided only to facilitate
understanding of some embodiments, and are not to be construed as
limiting in any respect.
Example A
[0160] A first player, player "ABC-110-F" from the player ID field
522 of the player database 520, plays at a particular gaming
device, gaming device "GMS-001" from the machine ID field 524.
Player "ABC-100-F" has registered for the opportunity to receive a
particular post-play benefit, benefit "PPB-001" from the post-play
benefit ID field 642 of the post-play benefit database 640. In
accordance with the data stored in the pre-qualification
condition(s) filed 644a, the first player "ABC-100-F" must wager
fifty dollars ($50) or more at any gaming device within a given day
to qualify for the post-play benefit "PPB-001" for that gaming
device. In the current example, player "ABC-100F" has satisfied the
relevant pre-qualification condition by wagering fifty dollars
($50) at the gaining device "GMS-001" in one day (specifically,
player "ABC-100-F" wagered five dollars ($5) at three thirty in the
afternoon (3:30 PM) at gaming device "GMS-001", then five dollars
($5) at one minute (1-min) later (3:31 PM), then five dollars ($5)
two minutes (2-min) after that (3:33 PM), then five dollars ($5)
five minutes (5-min) later (3:38 PM), then fifteen dollars ($15)
two minutes (2-min) after that (3:40 PM), then fifteen dollars
($15) at five-fifty in the afternoon (5:50 PM).
[0161] In addition to the potential benefit of five hundred dollars
($500), from the post-play benefit field 646 of the post-play
benefits database 640 for the post-play benefit "PPB-001", player
"ABC-100-F" is also potentially entitled to a fifty percent (50%)
discount coupon for a casino buffet, as shown in the post-play
benefit field 646 for the post-play benefit "PPB-002", because
player "ABC-100-F" has also satisfied the relevant
pre-qualification condition by playing at three (3) gaming devices
("GMS-001", "GMS-945", and "GMS-213") within one hour.
[0162] The relevant triggering condition for player "ABC-100-F" to
receive the five hundred dollars ($500) as the post-play benefit
"PPB-001" was satisfied when player "ABC-234-D" receives a payout
of seven thousand dollars ($7,000) at the gaming device "GMS-001"
within ten minutes (10-min) of the last wager of player "ABC-100-F"
at the gaming device "GMS-001". In other words, since the second
player "ABC-234-D" receives a payout of more than five thousand
dollars (>$5,000) at the same gaming device "GMS-001" within ten
minutes (10-min) of the first player "ABC-100-F" terminating play
at the gaming device "GMS-001", the post-play benefit is available
and/or triggered, and in some embodiments may be awarded to the
first player "ABC-100-F".
[0163] Further, the relevant triggering condition for the first
player "ABC-100-F" to receive the fifty percent (50%) discount
coupon for a casino buffet as the post-play benefit "PPB-002" was
satisfied when the second player "ABC-234-D" won (in this case, the
seven thousand dollars ($7,000) that also triggered post-play
benefit "PPB-001") at one of the machines ("GMS-001") within that
same day. Accordingly, the second post-play benefit "PPB-002" may
also or alternatively be awarded to the first player "ABC-100-F".
In some embodiments, the first player "ABC-100-F" may be presented
with a menu from one or more of the available post-play benefits
("PPB-001" or "PPB-002") may be selected for award and/or
redemption.
Example B
[0164] A first player, player "FVG-347-A" from the player ID field
522, plays video poker at a gaming device "IWT-444". The first
player "FVG-347-A" fails to obtain a royal flush as an outcome, and
therefore qualifies based on the information stored in the
pre-qualification condition(s) field 644a, for the third-listed
post-play benefit "PPB-003". The first player "FVG-347-A" is thus
potentially entitled to three (3) cards towards a royal flush the
next time the first player "FVG-347-A" visits the same video poker
machine "IWT-444".
[0165] The relevant triggering condition for the first player
"FVG-347-A" to receive post-play benefit "PPB-003" is satisfied
because a second player, player "YYU-938-X" obtained a royal flush
at the video poker machine "IWT-444" later that same day. Thus,
when the first player "FVG-347-A" initiates play at a video poker
machine in the future, the first player "FVG-347-A" may be awarded
three (3) cards toward a royal flush as a post-play benefit. In
some embodiments, such as in the case that the first player
"FVG-347-A" is playing video poker on a second machine when the
post-play benefit is triggered, the first player "FVG-347-A" may
receive the three (3) cards is part of the next outcome to be
provided by that gaming device. The first player "FVG-347-A" may be
notified of the award, of course, so that the first player
"FVG-347-A" realizes and/or is able to clearly identify the benefit
and/or why it was received.
[0166] B. Other Examples
Example C
[0167] After a period of time, a first player leaves a first
machine having lost fifty dollars ($50). Because the first player
has wagered a threshold amount of forty dollars ($40; e.g., a
prequalification condition), the first player is entitled to a
ten-dollar ($10) machine credit at a second machine (e.g., a
post-play benefit) should a subsequent player (e.g., a second
player) hit a jackpot at the first machine within the next hour
(e.g., a triggering condition).
Example D
[0168] A first player inserts a player tracking card into a kiosk
on the casino floor. The first player navigates a menu and selects
an option to purchase, using a portion of an available comp point
balance, the ability to win ten percent (10%) of any jackpot on the
floor within the next five minutes (5-min; a prequalification
condition). The first player also registers a cellular telephone
number. Four minutes (4-min) after the registration, a one thousand
dollar ($1,000) jackpot is won by a second player unknown to the
first player (e.g., a triggering condition). A central computer
transmits a message (e.g., an SMS message) to the first player's
cellular telephone, informing the first player that one hundred
dollars ($100) has been won (e.g., as a post-play benefit). The
first player walks to a cashier's booth on the casino floor, and a
casino clerk provides the first player with one hundred dollars
($100) in cash after confirming the first player's player tracking
card number.
Example E
[0169] A first player who has played at three (3) machines of a
particular manufacturer within a period of thirty minutes (30-min;
a prequalification condition) receives, as a post-play benefit, the
ability to download the latest Garth Brooks song to an Ipod.RTM.,
after a second player wins five hundred dollars ($500) from one of
the three (3) machines (a triggering condition).
Example F
[0170] A first player completes one hundred (100) handle pulls at a
Wheel of Fortune.RTM. slot machine without winning more than two
hundred dollars ($200; a prequalification condition). While playing
at another Wheel of Fortune.RTM. slot machine located within the
same bank as the first machine (an additional condition), a second
player of the first Wheel of Fortune.RTM. slot machine receives a
bonus-round triggering outcome (a triggering condition). The first
player receives, as a post-play benefit, the ability to play in the
bonus round of the second Wheel of Fortune.RTM. slot machine. In
other words, for example, the first player may automatically be
allowed to enter a bonus round and/or interface with a bonus device
(such as a bonus wheel).
Example G
[0171] A first player receives a Lemon-Bar-Lemon outcome at a first
machine (a prequalification condition). The first player then
purchases thirty minutes (30-min) of play at a second machine
pursuant to a flat-rate play pricing model (an additional
condition). During the first player's flat-rate play session at the
second machine, a second player wins five hundred dollars ($500) at
the first machine (a triggering condition). The first player is
awarded an extra ten minutes (10-min) of play at the second machine
(a post-play benefit).
Example H
[0172] A first player leaves a first machine a net loser (a
prequalification condition). The first player continues the losing
streak at a second machine (an additional condition), during which
a second player wins the jackpot at the first machine (a triggering
condition). The first player is awarded two percent (2%) of the
second player's net winnings (a post-play benefit).
Example I
[0173] A first player wagers at least one (1) credit at a first
machine (a prequalification condition). Within one hour (1-hr) of
leaving the first machine, the first player wagers at least one (1)
credit at each of at least three (3) different WMS.RTM. Gaming
machines (an additional condition). Within thirty minutes (30-min)
of leaving the first machine, a second player hits a jackpot (a
triggering condition). The first player is awarded a twenty-dollar
($20) credit at any WMS.RTM. Gaming machine (a post-play benefit).
Upon presenting a player tracking card at any WMS.RTM. Gaming
machine, the credit balance of the first player automatically
increases to twenty dollars ($20).
Example J
[0174] A first player leaves a first machine a net loser (a
prequalification condition). Because over ten minutes (10-min) pass
before a second player wins one hundred dollars ($100) at the first
machine, the first player is only entitled to ten dollars ($10),
whereas the first player would have been entitled to twenty dollars
($20) had the second player won the one hundred dollars ($100)
within the first ten minutes (10-min).
Example K
[0175] A first player receives ten (10) consecutive losing outcomes
at a first machine (e.g., a prequalification condition). A second
player then achieves a payout of one thousand (1,000) or more coins
(e.g., a first occurrence of a triggering condition). Accordingly,
the first player is awarded a payout equal to ten percent (10%) of
the second player's payout. The second player may then achieve
another payout of one thousand (1,000) or more coins (e.g., a
second occurrence of a triggering condition). Accordingly, the
first player may then be awarded a payout equal to five percent
(5%) of the second player's payout. The second player may then
achieve a third payout of one thousand (1,000) or more coins (e.g.,
a third occurrence of a triggering condition), though for this
occurrence, the first player may not be awarded a payout. In this
manner, the first player may receive benefits of lesser value
and/or may not receive benefits as incremental occurrences of
triggering conditions transpire. It should be understood that the
opposite effect may also or alternatively be implemented. In some
embodiments, since the probability of the second player satisfying
the triggering condition is likely to significantly decrease with
each occurrence, the first player may be awarded a larger
percentage of the second player's payout with each successive
and/or subsequent satisfaction of the triggering condition.
VII. EXEMPLARY PROCESS
[0176] Turning to FIG. 7, a flow diagram of a method 700 according
to some embodiments is shown. The method 700 may, for example,
illustrate an exemplary operation of the system 200 of FIG. 2, of
the controller 210, 310 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 3, and/or of one or
more gaming devices 250, 450 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 4. In some
embodiments, the method 700 may be related to, include, and/or may
be otherwise associated with the method 100 described in
conjunction with FIG. 1.
[0177] According to some embodiments, the method 700 may begin when
a first player initiates play at a gaming device, at 702. The
initiation of such play may be determined and/or identified, for
example, when the first player inserts a player tracking card,
cashless gaming ticket, and/or coins or tokens into the gaming
device. In some embodiments, the play may be determined to begin
when an outcome is initiated and/or provided by the gaming device.
According to some embodiments, the first player may play at the
gaming device for some time. The first player may, for example,
begin to feel more "invested" in the particular gaming device the
longer the first player continues to play at the gaming device.
[0178] In some embodiments, the method 700 may continue at 704
where the first player terminates play at the gaming device. After
some number of received outcomes, for example, the first player may
decide to terminate play and may provide an indication of such
decision (e.g., by pressing a "cash out" button or the like). In
some embodiments, play may simply terminate in the case that
insufficient credits remain in the gaming device for the first
player.
[0179] The method 700 may then continue, for example, to determine
whether the first player of the gaming device failed to win a
certain amount at the gaming device, at 706. Once play is
terminated, for example, the gaming device, a peripheral device,
and/or a server or controller may determine certain characteristics
associated with the first player's terminated session of play at
the gaming device. According to some embodiments, metrics instead
of or in addition to an amount of the first player's winnings may
be determined (e.g., as described elsewhere herein). In some
embodiments, such metrics may be compared to pre-determined levels
or thresholds. In the case that the first player registered (and/or
paid a fee) for the opportunity to receive post-play benefits, for
example, a pre-determined level of desired winnings at the gaming
device may have been established, and the first player's actual
winnings (or lack thereof) may be compared to this desired level.
In some embodiments, if the actual level of the first player's
winnings (or other metric of play) fails to meet the desired level,
then the first player may be deemed qualified to receive post-play
benefits associated with the gaming device. In other words, since
the first player "invested" an amount of time at the gaming device
(perhaps a qualifying and/or certain amount of time) and yet failed
to win a pre-determined minimum threshold amount, the first player
may qualify for the chance to receive post-play benefits that may,
at least partially, make up for the first player's losses during
the previous session of play at the gaming device. In some
embodiments, if the first player does not fail to win a certain
amount (i.e., wins more than a pre-determined minimum) and/or
otherwise fails to satisfy pre-determined criteria, then the first
player may not qualify for post-play benefits and the method 700
may simply end.
[0180] Assuming that the first player does qualify for post-play
benefits (e.g., at 706), the method 700 may continue at 708, in
some embodiments, when a second player initiates play at the gaming
device. The second play may initiate play and/or provide
indications thereof in a manner similar to the first player. The
second player may, for example, insert a player tracking card
and/or coins into the gaming device and begin playing. In some
embodiments, the potential award of post-play benefits to the first
player may be predicated upon actions and/or achievements of the
second player. In the case that the first player registered and/or
paid for the opportunity of post-play benefits, for example, the
first player may have selected (and/or been assigned) one or more
triggering criteria associated with subsequent play of the gaming
device by other players (such as the second player).
[0181] The method 700 may continue at 710, for example, to
determine if the second player of the gaming device wins at least a
certain amount at the gaming device. The determination may be made,
in some embodiments, during the session of play of the second
player or upon termination of the session. In some embodiments, the
triggering criteria may comprise conditions instead of or in
addition to the amount of winnings of the second player (e.g., as
described elsewhere herein). According to some embodiments, if the
second player fails to meet and/or achieve the triggering criteria,
then the method 700 may simply end. In other embodiments, if the
criteria is satisfied by the second player, then the method 700 may
continue to 712 to award post-play benefits to the first
player.
[0182] In other words, since the second player managed to win a
certain amount (and/or otherwise trigger the post-play benefits) at
the gaming device, subsequent to the first player's failed attempt
(even after spending a great deal of time at the gaming device,
perhaps), the first player provided with an award, to at least
partially make the first player feel that the previous session of
play at the gaming device was not time pent in vain. According to
some embodiments, the post-play benefit may even comprise a
percentage of the second player's winnings, further tying the
second player's performance at the gaming device to the benefit of
the first player.
[0183] While this exemplary process has been described with
reference to particular conditions and/or metrics, it should be
understood, particularly in light of the many embodiments described
herein, that other conditions and/or metrics may freely be
substituted for those presented in the current exemplary process.
Further, fewer or additional conditions and/or metrics may be
considered in determining whether and/or when to award post-play
benefits to a player. It should also be noted (as described
elsewhere herein) that the second player may comprise any number of
second players. The second player and post-play benefit triggering
conditions associated therewith may comprise, for example, a
requirement that one or more of the five (5) players of the gaming
device subsequent to the first player achieve certain results at
the gaming device (individually and/or collectively).
VIII. RULES OF INTERPRETATION
[0184] Numerous embodiments are described in this patent
application, and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The
described embodiments are not, and are not intended to be, limiting
in any sense. The presently disclosed invention(s) are widely
applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from the
disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
the disclosed invention(s) may be practiced with various
modifications and alterations, such as structural, logical,
software, and electrical modifications. Although particular
features of the disclosed invention(s) may be described with
reference to one or more particular embodiments and/or drawings, it
should be understood that such features are hot limited to usage in
the one or more particular embodiments or drawings with reference
to which they are described, unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0185] The present disclosure is neither a literal description of
all embodiments of the invention nor a listing of features of the
invention that must be present in all embodiments.
[0186] Neither the Title (set forth at the beginning of the first
page of this patent application) nor the Abstract (set forth at the
end of this patent application) is to be taken as limiting in any
way as the scope of the disclosed invention(s). The term "product"
means any machine, manufacture and/or composition of matter as
contemplated by 35 U.S.C. .sctn.101, unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0187] The terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "embodiments", "the
embodiment", "the embodiments", "one or more embodiments", "some
embodiments", "one embodiment" and the like mean "one or more (but
not all) disclosed embodiments", unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0188] A reference to "another embodiment" in describing an
embodiment does not imply that the referenced embodiment is
mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment
described before the referenced embodiment), unless expressly
specified otherwise.
[0189] The terms "including", "comprising" and variations thereof
mean "including but not limited to", unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0190] The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more", unless
expressly specified otherwise.
[0191] The term "plurality" means "two or more", unless expressly
specified otherwise.
[0192] The term "herein" means "in the present application,
including anything which may be incorporated by reference", unless
expressly specified otherwise.
[0193] The phrase "at least one of", when such phrase modifies a
plurality of things (such as an enumerated list of things) means
any combination of one or more of those things, unless expressly
specified otherwise. For example, the phrase at least one of a
widget, a car and a wheel means either (i) a widget, (ii) a car,
(iii) a wheel, (iv) a widget and a car, (v) a widget and a wheel,
(vi) a car and a wheel, or (vii) a widget, a car and a wheel.
[0194] The phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on", unless
expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase "based
on" describes both "based only on" and "based at least on".
[0195] The term "whereby" is used herein only to precede a clause
or other set of words that express only the intended result,
objective or consequence of something that is previously and
explicitly recited. Thus, when the term "whereby" is used in a
claim, the clause or other words that the term "whereby" modifies
do not establish specific further limitations of the claim or
otherwise restricts the meaning or scope of the claim.
[0196] Where a limitation of a first claim would cover one of a
feature as well as more than one of a feature (e.g., a limitation
such as "at least one widget" covers one widget as well as more
than one widget), and where in a second claim that depends on the
first claim, the second claim uses a definite article "the" to
refer to the limitation (e.g., "the widget"), this does not imply
that the first claim covers only one of the feature, and this does
not imply that the second claim covers only one of the feature
(e.g., "the widget" can cover both one widget and more than one
widget).
[0197] Each process (whether called a method, algorithm or
otherwise) inherently includes one or more steps, and therefore all
references to a "step" or "steps" of a process have an inherent
antecedent basis in the mere recitation of the term `process` or a
like term. Accordingly, any reference in a claim to a `step` or
`steps` of a process has sufficient antecedent basis.
[0198] When an ordinal number (such as "first", "second", "third"
and so on) is used as an adjective before a term, that ordinal
number is used (unless expressly specified otherwise) merely to
indicate a particular feature, such as to distinguish that
particular feature from another feature that is described by the
same term or by a similar term. For example, a "first widget" may
be so named merely to distinguish it from, e.g., a "second widget".
Thus, the mere usage of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second"
before the term "widget" does not indicate any other relationship
between the two widgets, and likewise does not indicate any other
characteristics of either or both widgets. For example, the mere
usage of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term
"widget" (1) does not indicate that either widget comes before or
after any other in order or location; (2) does not indicate that
either widget occurs or acts before or after any other in time; and
(3) does not indicate that either widget ranks above or below any
other, as in importance or quality. In addition, the mere usage of
ordinal numbers does not define a numerical limit to the features
identified with the ordinal numbers. For example, the mere usage of
the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget"
does not indicate that there must be no more than two widgets.
[0199] When a single device or article is described herein, more
than one device or article (whether or not they cooperate) may
alternatively be used in place of the single device or article that
is described. Accordingly, the functionality that is described as
being possessed by a device may alternatively be possessed by more
than one device or article (whether or not they cooperate).
[0200] Similarly, where more than one device or article is
described herein (whether or not they cooperate), a single device
or article may alternatively be used in place of the more than one
device or article that is described. For example, a plurality of
computer-based devices may be substituted with a single
computer-based device. Accordingly, the various functionality that
is described as being possessed by more than one device or article
may alternatively be possessed by a single device or article.
[0201] The functionality and/or the features of a single device
that is described may be alternatively embodied by one or more
other devices that are described but are not explicitly described
as having such functionality and/or features. Thus, other
embodiments need not include the described device itself but rather
can include the one or more other devices that would, in those
other embodiments, have such functionality and/or features.
[0202] Devices that are in communication with each other need not
be in continuous communication with each other, unless expressly
specified otherwise. On the contrary, such devices need only
transmit to each other as necessary or desirable, and may actually
refrain from exchanging data most of the time. For example, a
machine in communication with another machine via the Internet may
not transmit data to the other machine for weeks at a time. In
addition, devices that are in communication with each other may
communicate directly or indirectly through one or more
intermediaries.
[0203] A description of an embodiment with several components or
features does not imply that all or even any of such components
and/or features are required. On the contrary, a variety of
optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of
possible embodiments of the present invention(s). Unless otherwise
specified explicitly, no component and/or feature is essential or
required.
[0204] Further, although process steps, algorithms or the like may
be described in a sequential order, such processes may be
configured to work in different orders. In other words, any
sequence or order of steps that may be explicitly described does
not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed
in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be
performed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be
performed simultaneously despite being described or implied as
occurring non-simultaneously (e.g., because one step is described
after the other step). Moreover, the illustration of a process by
its depiction in a drawing does not imply that the illustrated
process is exclusive of other variations and modifications thereto,
does not imply that the illustrated process or any of its steps are
necessary to the invention, and does not imply that the illustrated
process is preferred.
[0205] Although a process may be described as including a plurality
of steps, that does not indicate that all or even any of the steps
are essential or required. Various other embodiments within the
scope of the described invention(s) include other processes that
omit some or all of the described steps. Unless otherwise specified
explicitly, no step is essential or required.
[0206] Although a product may be described as including a plurality
of components, aspects, qualities, characteristics and/or features,
that does not indicate that all of the plurality are essential or
required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the
described invention(s) include other products that omit some or all
of the described plurality.
[0207] An enumerated list of items (which may or may not be
numbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually
exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. Likewise, an
enumerated list of items (which may or may not be numbered) does
not imply that any or all of the items are comprehensive of any
category, unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the
enumerated list "a computer, a laptop, a PDA" does not imply that
any or all of the three items of that list are mutually exclusive
and does not imply that any or all of the three items of that list
are comprehensive of any category.
[0208] Headings of sections provided in this patent application and
the title of this patent application are for convenience only, and
are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way.
[0209] "Determining" something can be performed in a variety of
manners and therefore the term "determining" (and like terms)
includes calculating, computing, deriving, looking up (e.g., in a
table, database or data structure), ascertaining and the like.
[0210] It will be readily apparent that the various methods and
algorithms described herein may be implemented by, eg.,
appropriately programmed general purpose computers and computing
devices. Typically a processor (e.g., one or more microprocessors)
will receive instructions from a memory or like device, and execute
those instructions, thereby performing one or more processes
defined by those instructions. Further, programs that implement
such methods and algorithms may be stored and transmitted using a
variety of media (e.g., computer readable media) in a number of
manners. In some embodiments, hard-wired circuitry or custom
hardware may be used in place of, or in combination with, software
instructions for implementation of the processes of various
embodiments. Thus, embodiments are not limited to any specific
combination of hardware and software
[0211] A "Processor" means any one or more microprocessors, CPU
devices, computing devices, microcontrollers, digital signal
processors, or like devices.
[0212] The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium
that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions) that may
be read by a computer, a processor or a like device. Such a medium
may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile
media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media
include, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other
persistent memory. Volatile media include DRAM, which typically
constitutes the main memory. Transmission media include coaxial
cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that
comprise a system bus coupled to the processor. Transmission media
may include or convey acoustic waves, light waves and
electromagnetic emissions, such as those generated during RF and IR
data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media
include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk,
magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any other
optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium
with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH-EEPROM,
any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described
hereinafter, or any other medium from which a computer can
read.
[0213] Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in
carrying sequences of instructions to a processor. For example,
sequences of instruction (i) may be delivered from RAM to a
processor, (ii) may be carried over a wireless transmission medium,
and/or (iii) may be formatted according to numerous formats,
standards or protocols, such as Bluetooth.TM., TDMA, CDMA, 3G.
[0214] Where databases are described, it will be understood by one
of ordinary skill in the art that (i) alternative database
structures to those described may be readily employed, and (ii)
other memory structures besides databases may be readily employed.
Any illustrations or descriptions of any sample databases presented
herein are illustrative arrangements for stored representations of
information. Any number of other arrangements may be employed
besides those suggested by, e.g., tables illustrated in drawings or
elsewhere. Similarly, any illustrated entries of the databases
represent exemplary information only; one of ordinary skill in the
art will understand that the number and content of the entries can
be different from those described herein. Further, despite any
depiction of the databases as tables, other formats (including
relational databases, object-based models and/or distributed
databases) could be used to store and manipulate the data types
described herein. Likewise, object methods or behaviors of a
database can be used to implement various processes, such as the
described herein. In addition, the databases may, in a known
manner, be stored locally or remotely from a device that accesses
data in such a database.
[0215] The present invention can be configured to work in a network
environment including a computer that is in communication, via a
communications network, with one or more devices. The computer may
communicate with the devices directly or indirectly, via a wired or
wireless medium such as the Internet, LAN, WAN or Ethernet, Token
Ring, or via any appropriate communications means or combination of
communications means. Each of the devices may comprise computers,
such as those based on the Intel.RTM. Pentium.RTM. or Centrino.TM.
processor, that are adapted to communicate with the computer. Any
number and type of machines may be in communication with the
computer.
[0216] The present disclosure provides, to one of ordinary skill in
the art, an enabling description of several embodiments and/or
inventions. Some of these embodiments and/or inventions may not be
claimed in the present application, but may nevertheless be claimed
in one or more continuing applications that claim the benefit of
priority of the present application. Applicants intend to file
additional applications to pursue patents for subject matter that
has been disclosed and enabled but not claimed in the present
application.
* * * * *