U.S. patent application number 13/105200 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-01 for method and apparatus for player communication.
This patent application is currently assigned to IGT. Invention is credited to James A. Jorasch, Russell P. Sammon, Jay S. Walker.
Application Number | 20110212765 13/105200 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32110094 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110212765 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Walker; Jay S. ; et
al. |
September 1, 2011 |
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLAYER COMMUNICATION
Abstract
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring gaming
activities of a player at a gaming device. It is determined, based
on the gaming activities, whether to initiate communication between
the player and an individual. Communication is enabled between the
player and the individual.
Inventors: |
Walker; Jay S.; (Ridgefield,
CT) ; Jorasch; James A.; (Stamford, CT) ;
Sammon; Russell P.; (San Francisco, CA) |
Assignee: |
IGT
Reno
NV
|
Family ID: |
32110094 |
Appl. No.: |
13/105200 |
Filed: |
May 11, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10655969 |
Sep 4, 2003 |
7972213 |
|
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13105200 |
|
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60408472 |
Sep 4, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 ;
463/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3239 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3223 20130101; G07F 17/3227 20130101;
G07F 17/3237 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/25 ;
463/1 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/00 20060101
G06F017/00 |
Claims
1. A method of operating a gaming system, said method comprising:
(a) causing at least one processor to select a player of a gaming
device to receive a portable communication device; (b) causing the
at least one processor to operate with at least one input device to
obtain a player identifier from the player; and (c) supplying the
portable communication device to the player.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the player identifier comprises
at least one selected from the group consisting of: a name of the
player, an address of the player, a phone number of the player, a
tracking card of the player, a hotel room number of the player, an
email address of the player, and a payment identifier of the
player.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the payment identifier comprises
at least one selected from the group consisting of: a credit card
number, a debit card number, a financial account number, a home
billing address, and a hotel room number of the player.
4. The method of claim 1, which includes providing a consideration
in exchange for supplying the portable communication device.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the consideration comprises at
least one of selected from the group consisting of: a currency, a
promise to perform a service, and a product.
6. The method of claim 1, which includes receiving a security
deposit from the player in exchange for supplying the portable
communication device.
7. The method of claim 6, which includes returning the security
deposit to the player upon a receipt of the portable communication
device from the player.
8. The method of claim 1, which includes supplying the portable
communication device from at least one selected from the group
consisting of: a casino representative, a front desk at a casino,
and a merchant associated with a casino.
9. The method of claim 1, which includes receiving the portable
communication device from the player at least one selected from the
group consisting of: a casino desk, and a deposit bin.
10. The method of claim 1, which includes receiving an indication
from the player and, in response thereto, collecting the portable
communication device from the player.
11. The method of claim 1, which includes supplying the portable
communication device subject to a condition.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the condition is selected from
the group consisting of: a condition that the communication device
be in working order when returned by the player, a condition that
the communication device be returned during a specified time
period, a condition that the communication device be returned at a
specified location, and a condition that the communication device
be used by the player in a specified manner.
13. The method of claim 12 wherein the specified manner comprises
using the communication device for at least a specified amount of
time.
14. The method of claim 1, which includes providing a benefit to
the player upon a receipt of the portable communication device from
the player.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the benefit is at least one of
a product and a service.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the benefit is provided based
upon at least one condition related to a play of a game of the
gaming device.
17. The method of claim 1, which includes causing the at least one
processor to associate the portable communication device with the
player identifier.
18. A gaming system comprising: at least one gaming device
including: at least one input device, at least one display device,
at least one processor, and at least one memory device which stores
a plurality of instructions, which when executed by the at least
one processor, cause the at least one processor to operate with the
at least one display device and the at least one input device to
display a play of a game; at least one portable communication
device; and at least one controller configured to operate with the
at least one gaming device and the at least one portable
communication device, said at least one controller programmed to:
(a) select a player of the at least one gaming device to receive
the portable communication device; (b) obtain a player identifier
from the player; and (c) cause the portable communication device to
be supplied to the player.
19. The gaming system of claim 18, wherein the player identifier
comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of: a
name of the player, an address of the player, a phone number of the
player, a tracking card of the player, a hotel room number of the
player, an email address of the player, and a payment identifier of
the player.
20. The gaming system of claim 19, wherein the payment identifier
comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of: a
credit card number, a debit card number, a financial account
number, a home billing address, and a hotel room number of the
player.
21. The gaming system of claim 18, wherein the at least one
controller is programmed to cause a consideration to be provided in
exchange for supplying the portable communication device.
22. The gaming system of claim 21, wherein the consideration
comprises at least one of selected from the group consisting of: a
currency, a promise to perform a service, and a product.
23. The gaming system of claim 18, wherein the at least one
controller is programmed to enable the player to input a security
deposit in exchange for supplying the portable communication
device.
24. The gaming system of claim 23, wherein the at least one
controller is programmed to cause the security deposit to be
returned to the player upon a receipt of the portable communication
device from the player.
25. The gaming system of claim 18, wherein the at least one
controller is programmed to cause the portable communication device
to be supplied from at least one selected from the group consisting
of: a casino representative, a front desk at a casino, and a
merchant associated with a casino.
26. The gaming system of claim 18, wherein the at least one
controller is programmed to cause the portable communication device
to be supplied subject to a condition.
27. The gaming system of claim 26, wherein the condition is
selected from the group consisting of: a condition that the
communication device be in working order when returned by the
player, a condition that the communication device be returned
during a specified time period, a condition that the communication
device be returned at a specified location, and a condition that
the communication device be used by the player in a specified
manner.
28. The gaming system of claim 27 wherein the specified manner
comprises using the communication device for at least a specified
amount of time.
29. The gaming system of claim 18, wherein the at least one
controller is programmed to cause a benefit to be provided to the
player upon a receipt of the portable communication device from the
player.
30. The gaming system of claim 29, wherein the benefit is at least
one of a product and a service.
31. The gaming system of claim 29, wherein the benefit is provided
based upon at least one condition related to the play of the game
of the at least one gaming device.
32. The gaming system of claim 18, wherein the at least one
controller is programmed to associate the portable communication
device with the player identifier.
33. A gaming system comprising: at least one controller configured
to operate with at least one gaming device and at least one
portable communication device, said at least one controller
programmed to: (a) select a player of the at least one gaming
device to receive the portable communication device; (b) obtain a
player identifier from the player; and (c) cause the portable
communication device to be supplied to the player.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a continuation application of, claims
priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/655,969, filed on Sep. 4, 2003, which claims priority to and the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/408,472,
filed on Sep. 4, 2002, the entire contents of which are each
incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for
gaming.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In general, casinos would like to find new ways to increase
revenue and to make a player's experience more enjoyable. Casinos
would also like to provide benefits to players in a convenient and
cost-effective manner. However, additional services to profitably
provide players might be somewhat limited given a player's desires
while in the casino (e.g., the desire to only play a certain game).
It is also possible, however, that certain players at certain times
would favorably respond to different activities. Predicting what
state of mind a particular player is in, and thus how receptive
that player is, can be difficult to establish based only on, e.g.,
the player's gaming activities. Nevertheless the opportunity to
better serve players is a significant one for casinos.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] FIG. 1A shows one embodiment of a system that implements the
invention.
[0005] FIG. 1B shows one embodiment of a system that implements the
invention.
[0006] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a game machine.
[0007] FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of a communication device.
[0008] FIGS. 4A and 4B show embodiments of the controller.
[0009] FIG. 5 shows one embodiment of a player database stored by
the controller.
[0010] FIG. 6 shows one embodiment of a casino rep database stored
by the controller.
[0011] FIG. 7 shows one embodiment of a trigger database stored by
the controller.
[0012] FIG. 8 shows one embodiment of a communication database
stored by the controller.
[0013] FIG. 9A shows one embodiment of a game machine that includes
a communication device.
[0014] FIG. 9B shows a second embodiment of a game machine that
includes a communication device.
[0015] FIG. 10 shows a bank of game machines along with a sign
encouraging players to use their cellular telephones to communicate
with casino reps.
[0016] FIG. 11 shows a flowchart corresponding to an embodiment of
the invention.
[0017] FIG. 12 shows a flowchart corresponding to an embodiment of
the invention.
[0018] FIG. 13 shows a flowchart corresponding to an embodiment of
the invention.
[0019] FIG. 14 shows a flowchart corresponding to an embodiment of
the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The present invention is described herein, as are a variety
of differing embodiments of the invention.
[0021] According to one embodiment, a game machine may include a
communication device (e.g., a telephone) that allows a player to
communicate with a casino rep. Similarly, a player may provide his
own communication device or borrow one from a casino desk. If a
player would like to communicate with a casino rep, he may activate
the communication device (e.g., by pressing a button or lifting a
telephone handset). The player may then use the communication
device to communicate with a casino rep (e.g., a call center
representative). The casino rep may in turn operate a similar or
different communication device to communicate with the player.
[0022] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may offer a
benefit to a player if the player agrees to perform an activity.
For example, a casino rep may offer to increase a player's credit
balance on a game machine by 50 credits if the player agrees to
sign up for satellite television service.
[0023] A variety of other types of communication between a player
and a casino rep are also possible. For example, a casino rep may
market a product or service to a player, assist a player in
operating a game machine, or provide encouragement to a player.
[0024] According to one embodiment, a controller may manage
communication between players and casino reps. The controller may
identify players and casino reps based on a variety of different
factors, and then pair them to communicate. For example, the
controller may identify a player to receive an offer and a casino
rep to present the offer to the player. The controller may then
arrange for the casino rep's communication device to be connected
to the player's communication device. For example, a telephone on a
game machine operated by a player may ring. When the player answers
the telephone, a casino rep may explain that the player has been
selected to receive an offer and present the offer to the
player.
[0025] The disclosed combination of casino rep and machine is
better than either would be on its own. While computers are
generally very good at interpreting data (e.g., a player's session
theoretical win), they are not always as adept at interpreting
player preferences, feelings, and moods. In contrast, casino reps
may be more perceptive regarding player preferences, feelings, and
moods and therefore able to determine information that the
controller could not determine on its own. In addition, casino reps
may gain a more thorough knowledge of a player's preferences by
interacting with the player. It is anticipated that relative
strengths of the casino reps and the controller will complement
each other in determining which offers should be presented to
players.
[0026] Applicants know that people (e.g., players) may be more
likely to accept offers that are presented to them by other people
(e.g., good-looking waiters or waitresses) than offers that are
presented to them by machines (e.g., slot machines).
[0027] Players are sometimes very focused when they are gambling at
a slot machine. There are times when a player may not want to be
disturbed from his current gambling activities in order to respond
to an offer. Applicants recognize that people (e.g., waitresses)
can be much better at judging this than present-day computer
systems. Allow waitresses to cancel an offer based on their own
judgment of a player's interest.
[0028] In addition, offers have inherent benefits to the player.
For example, a player can receive a benefit for performing an
activity. In addition, offers have inherent benefits to the casino.
Players are happy since they receive benefits, and so players can
gamble more because benefits provide an additional source of funds.
In addition, offers have inherent benefits to subsidizers.
Activities may benefit subsidizers (e.g., players/customers can be
acquired at relatively low cost, customer information can be
collected). Also, casino reps may themselves benefit by receiving
commissions for making offers to players.
[0029] The following terms are used herein.
[0030] A player is at least one party who operates a game
machine.
[0031] A casino is a party that enables a player to play a game of
chance (e.g., by operating a game machine).
[0032] A casino representative (also referred to as a "casino rep")
includes an employee of the casino, or other party affiliated with
the casino. Examples of casino representatives include hosts,
waitresses, coin changers, pit bosses, blackjack dealers, cashiers,
bus drivers, flight attendants, and managers.
[0033] A communication device includes an electronic device that
allows a player to communicate with a casino rep, or vice
versa.
[0034] A game machine includes an electronic or electromechanical
device that is operated by a player to play a game of chance.
[0035] A controller includes a computer system operated by the
casino, which may enable players to communicate with casino
reps.
[0036] A trigger includes an event, condition, Boolean expression,
or other factor that causes the controller to identify a player to
communicate with a casino rep.
[0037] An offer includes a description of an activity to be
performed by a player and a benefit to be received if this activity
is performed.
[0038] An activity includes something which may be performed by a
player in order to obtain a benefit.
[0039] A benefit includes something which may be provided if a
player performs an activity.
[0040] A subsidizer is a party that provides a subsidy to a casino
or other party operating the controller (e.g., in exchange for the
player performing an activity).
System
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 1A, an apparatus 100 according to
embodiments of the present invention includes a controller 110 that
is in communication with one or more game machines 130a, 130b and
130c, and with one or more casino representative communication
devices 150a, 150b and 150c. Each of one or more player
communication devices 140a, 140b and 140c are also in communication
with a game machine.
[0042] The controller 110 may communicate with the game machines
130a, 130b, and 130c, the player communication devices 140a, 140b
and 140c and the casino representative communication devices 150a,
150b and 150c directly or via a communication network of any known
type or types. Possible communication networks 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, a satellite communications link. In FIG. 1A,
such communication is illustrated as taking place through
communication networks 120a and 120b.
[0043] Possible communications protocols include: Ethernet,
Bluetooth, TCP/IP, 802.11. According to one embodiment,
communication may be encrypted to ensure privacy and prevent
fraud.
[0044] The communication referred to herein can allow any or all of
several types of communication to take place. For example, the
controller may transmit information to a game machine (e.g., to
control its operation), and a game machine may transmit information
to the controller (e.g., information about a player's gaming
activities).
[0045] The controller may transmit information to a communication
device, and a communication device may transmit information to the
controller. Communication devices may transmit and receive among
each other.
[0046] Note that both wireline and wireless communication networks
are possible. According to one embodiment, a wireless communication
network that is used to communicate with a player device may have a
limited range (e.g., 10-20 feet). Transmission frequencies may be
reused in different areas of a casino. For example, a first player
device may communicate on a frequency band in a first room of
casino, and a second player device may communicate on the same
frequency band in a second room of the casino. Since the two player
devices may be separated by a relatively large distance (e.g., 100
ft), they may not interfere with each other.
[0047] Low-power transmissions are not regulated by the FCC, and
low-power transmissions do not consume as much power, meaning that
player devices may include smaller power supplies or operate for
longer periods of time before needing to be recharged.
[0048] Each of the game machines 130a, 130b, and 130c, the player
communication devices 140a, 140b and 140c and the casino
representative communication devices 150a, 150b and 150c may
comprise computers, such as those based on the Intel.RTM.
Pentium.RTM. processor, that are adapted to communicate with the
controller 110. Any number of the game machines 130a, 130b, and
130c, the player communication devices 140a, 140b and 140c and the
casino representative communication devices 150a, 150b and 150c may
exist, though three each are illustrated in FIG. 1A.
[0049] Examples of game machines include a slot machine (e.g.,
located in a casino or riverboat), a video poker terminal, a video
lottery terminal, a pachinko machine, a table-top game (e.g.,
located in a bar or other commercial establishment), a personal
computer (e.g., to communicate with website that provides gambling
services), a telephone (e.g., to communicate with an automated
sports book that provides gambling services), a portable handheld
gaming device (e.g., a personal digital assistant or Nintendo
GameBoy), a skill crane, a skee-ball machine, a video game and a
set-top box (e.g., HotelNet).
[0050] In embodiments of the invention addressing table games such
as blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat, keno, bingo, and
the like, the game machine may be hardware (e.g., a table-top box)
located at the game table suitable for tracking events at the game
table.
[0051] According to one embodiment, a game machine may enable a
player to play a game of chance (e.g., bingo). Alternatively, a
game machine may enable a player to play a game of skill (e.g.,
chess).
[0052] Game machines are well known to those skilled in the art,
and need not be described in further detail herein.
[0053] Communication among components may be direct or indirect,
such as over the Internet through a Web site maintained by
controller 110 on a remote server or over an on-line data network
including commercial on-line service providers, bulletin board
systems and the like. In yet other embodiments, the devices may
communicate with controller 110 over RF, cable TV, satellite links
and the like.
[0054] Those skilled in the art will understand that devices in
communication with each other need not be continually transmitting
to each other. On the contrary, such devices need only transmit to
each other as necessary, and may actually refrain from exchanging
data most of the time. For example, a device in communication with
another device via the Internet may not transmit data to the other
device for weeks at a time.
[0055] The controller 110 may function as a "Web server" that
generates Web pages (documents on the Web that typically include an
HTML file and associated graphics and script files) that may be
accessed via the Web and allows communication with the controller
110 in a manner known in the art.
[0056] Any or all of the game machines 130a, 130b, and 130c, the
player communication devices 140a, 140b and 140c and the casino
representative communication devices 150a, 150b and 150c may be,
e.g., conventional personal computers, portable types of computers,
such as a laptop computer, a palm-top computer, a hand-held
computer, or a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).
[0057] FIG. 1B depicts another embodiment of a system according to
the present invention. FIG. 1B likewise indicates components
described above with respect to FIG. 1A. This embodiment depicts
player communication devices 175a 175b and 175c in communication
with the controller 165 through the communication network 170a. The
depicted game machines 185a, 185b and 185c are not in communication
with the controller 165.
Devices
[0058] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment 200 of a game machine. This
embodiment includes components well known in the art, specifically
a processor 205, Ram 210 and ROM 215, a data storage device 220, a
random number generator 225, a communication port 230, a hopper
controller 235, a hopper 240, a video controller 245, a touch
screen 250, a coin acceptor controller 255, a coin acceptor 260, a
bill acceptor controller 265, a bill acceptor 270, a reel
controller 275, reels 280a, 280b and 280c, an input device 285, an
output device 290 and a sensor 295.
[0059] The output device 290 may be used to output information from
the game machine to a player. Examples of output devices include: a
video monitor, a light-emitting diode (LED), an audio speaker, an
electric motor, a printer, a coupon or product dispenser, an
infra-red port (e.g., for communicating with a second slot
machine), a Braille computer monitor, a coin or bill dispenser.
[0060] For game machines, common output devices include a cathode
ray tube (CRT) monitor on a video poker machine, a bell on a slot
machine (e.g., rings when a player wins), an LED display of a
player's credit balance on a slot machine, an LCD display of a
personal digital assistant (PDA) for displaying keno numbers, a
printer to provide a receipt for a player's gambling credits.
[0061] The input device 285 may be used to receive an input from a
player. Examples of input devices include: a computer keyboard, a
computer mouse, a touch screen, a microphone, a video camera, a
magnetic stripe reader (e.g., to read a player tracking card), a
biometric input device (e.g., a fingerprint or retinal scanner), a
radio antenna (e.g., for receiving inputs from a second slot
machine), a weight/pressure sensor, a motion sensor, a location
sensor (e.g., a global positioning system card), a voice
recognition module, a coin or bill acceptor.
[0062] For game machines, input devices could include a button or
touch screen on a video poker machine, a lever on a slot machine, a
magnetic stripe reader to read a player tracking card inserted into
a slot machine, a motion sensor to determine if a player is
standing in front of a game machine, a keypad (e.g., on a player
tracking card reader).
[0063] A game machine may include a payment system that accepts
payment from a player (e.g., a bet), and/or provides payment to a
player (e.g., a prize). Payment is not limited to money but may
also include other types of consideration, including products,
services, and alternate currencies (e.g., casino chips). Exemplary
methods of accepting payment from a player include receiving hard
currency (i.e., coins or bills), receiving an alternate currency
(e.g., a paper cashless gaming voucher, a coupon, a casino token),
receiving a payment identifier (e.g., a credit card number, a debit
card number, a player tracking card number), determining that a
player has performed a value-added activity.
[0064] Exemplary methods of providing payment to a player include
dispensing hard currency (i.e., coins or bills), dispensing an
alternate currency (e.g., a paper cashless gaming voucher, a
coupon, a casino token), crediting a player account (e.g., a bank
account or other financial account), providing a product or service
to the player (e.g., a jackpot prize may be a new car).
[0065] A player may operate multiple game machines. For example, a
player may simultaneously play two side-by-side game machines, a
player may play a game machine and then continue his gambling
session at a video poker machine, and/or a player may use a
telephone or other device to remotely operate a game machine.
[0066] In an alternate embodiment, a game machine 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.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 3, an embodiment of a communication device
300 is shown. The communication device 300 includes a processor 310
in communication with a memory 320, an input device 330, an output
device 340 and a communication port 350. Each of these components
is conventional and further description here is not necessary.
[0068] Common input devices include a microphone, a touch screen, a
video camera, a motion or location sensor to determine a player's
location, a numeric keypad.
[0069] For communication devices, common output devices include an
audio speaker, a video monitor, and headphones.
[0070] The communication device permits a first party (e.g., a
player) may use to communicate with a second party (e.g., a casino
rep), or vice versa. A player may operate a first communication
device and a casino rep may operate a second communication device.
These two communication devices may allow them to communicate with
each other. Different types of communication devices may be
operated by different parties. For example, a player may operate a
cellular telephone (a communication device) and a casino rep may
operate a computer terminal (a communication device).
[0071] Various types of communication devices include a telephone
(e.g., a land-line), a cordless telephone, a cellular telephone, a
video phone, a computer terminal (e.g., a personal computer, a
laptop computer, a dumb terminal), a hands-free telephone, a PDA
(personal digital assistant) with network connection, and a one-way
or two-way pager.
[0072] According to one embodiment, a game machine may include a
communication device. For example, a game machine may include a
telephone handset that allows a player to communicate with a casino
rep. A communication device may be built-into a game machine. For
example, a game machine may have a telephone on the side that is
marked "Free Money Hotline--pick up this telephone to earn money
for gambling!"
[0073] A communication device may be added to a game machine. For
example, a game machine manufacturer may provide a modification kit
that allows a technician to add a communication device to a game
machine.
[0074] A communication device may be physically connected to a game
machine but have no electronic connection. For example, a telephone
may be bolted onto the side of a game machine.
[0075] A game machine may function as a communication device. For
example, an audio speaker and touch screen on a game machine may
allow a casino rep to communicate with a player and prompt the
player to respond to questions by pressing buttons on the touch
screen.
[0076] According to one embodiment, a communication device may be
portable. For example, a player may be able to carry a
communication device with him from game machine to game
machine.
[0077] A communication device may be wireless or wireline. For
example, a player may use a two-way pager to send messages to a
casino rep. Wireless communication may be particularly convenient
for a casino to set up (there is no need to install wiring), as
well as for player to use (a player may be free to move around
while operating a communication device). As another example, a
player may carry a telephone handset for a land-line telephone. To
use the telephone, the player may plug the telephone handset into a
telephone jack on the side of a game machine. In some scenarios,
this embodiment may be preferred because of lower costs, reduced
interference, or increased security in wireline communications.
[0078] According to one embodiment, a player may operate his own
communication device. For example, a player may use his cellular
telephone to communicate with a casino rep. In such an embodiment,
the player may identify himself in a variety of different ways,
which are described in detail herein. For example, a player may
indicate his interest in communicating with a casino rep by dialing
a phone number (i.e., to call the casino rep) or by providing his
cellular telephone number when filling out a registration form
(e.g., so that the casino rep can call the player).
[0079] A communication device may permit one or more types of
communication, including audio, video, text, images and
selection--response interfaces
[0080] For example, a telephone may allow a player to speak with a
casino representative, a video phone may allow a player to see a
casino rep with whom he is speaking, a casino rep may use a
computer terminal to send an instant message to a player, a casino
rep may send the player a snapshot of a product that is specified
in an offer, a casino rep may ask a player a question, and the
player may then respond to this question by selecting an option on
a touch screen.
[0081] According to one embodiment, a player may use a
communication device to communicate with a casino rep, including
providing information to the casino rep. For example, an input
device (e.g., a touch screen, a microphone, a video camera) on a
communication device may record information from a player. This
information may then be transmitted to a casino rep by the
communication device.
[0082] A player may use a communication device to receive
information from the casino rep. For example, an output device
(e.g., an audio speaker, a video monitor, headphones) may output
information supplied by a casino rep. Similarly, a casino rep may
use a communication device to communicate information to a
player.
[0083] A communication device may be provide uni-directional
communication or bi-directional communication. For example, an
audio speaker on a game machine may allow a casino rep to output a
message to a player, a microphone on a game machine may allow a
player to ask a question to a casino rep, telephones may allow a
player and a casino rep to converse.
[0084] According to one embodiment, a single communication device
may be used to simultaneously communicate with a plurality of
parties (e.g., like a party line). For example, a player may use a
single communication device to simultaneously communicate with a
plurality of casino reps who operate a plurality of communication
devices. For example, different casino reps may provide different
services to a player.
[0085] As another example, a casino rep may use a single
communication device to communicate with a plurality of players who
operate a plurality of communication devices. For example, a casino
rep may act as the facilitator for a focus group composed of
players operating game machines at a casino.
[0086] As another example, a plurality of casino reps operating a
plurality of communication devices may communicate with a plurality
of players operating a plurality of communication devices.
[0087] According to one embodiment, a party (e.g., a casino rep, a
player) may operate a plurality of communication devices. Examples
include:
[0088] As another example, a casino rep may operate a hands-free
telephone and a personal computer. The hands-free telephone may
enable the casino rep to have a conversation with a player, and the
personal computer may allow the casino rep to send instant messages
to a player or remotely operate a game machine that the player is
using.
[0089] As another example, a player may operate a telephone handset
and a video phone. The telephone handset may allow the player to
speak with a casino rep clearly, and the video phone may allow the
casino rep and the player to see each other while conversing.
[0090] A communication device may or may not have its own power
source. For example, a cordless telephone may include a battery,
but a video phone may receive power by being plugged into a power
outlet near a game machine.
[0091] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate different embodiments of a
controller. Referring to FIG. 4A, controller 400 includes a
processor 405 in communication with an input device 410, and output
device 415, a communications port 420, and a data storage device
430, each of which is well known in the art. FIG. 4B illustrates
comparable components with different figure numerals, and also
shows a memory 470 in communication with the processor 465.
[0092] With respect to both FIGS. 4A and 4B, the data storage
device 430 stores a program 435, as well as a player database 440,
a casino rep database 445, a trigger database 450 and a
communication database 455.
[0093] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the
schematic illustrations and accompanying descriptions of the
databases presented herein are exemplary arrangements for stored
representations of information. A number of other arrangements may
be employed besides those suggested by the tables shown. Similarly,
the illustrated entries of the databases represent exemplary
information only; those skilled in the art will understand that the
number and content of the entries can be different from those
illustrated herein.
[0094] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may operate a
computer terminal (not shown in FIGS. 1A-4B). Such a computer
terminal may be useful for a variety of purposes, including
outputting information to a casino representative, remotely
altering a game machine, identifying a player for communication,
identifying a casino rep himself for communication. Examples of
computer terminals include a personal computer, a laptop computer,
a computer workstation, a dumb terminal, and a personal digital
assistant (PDA). According to one embodiment, a computer terminal
may communicate with the controller or a game machine using a
communication network.
[0095] A casino rep may operate both a communication device and a
computer terminal. For example, a casino rep may use a hands-free
phone while operating a computer terminal. According to one
embodiment, a computer terminal may function as a communication
device. For example, a personal computer may have a microphone,
audio speaker, and video camera that enable it to function as a
video phone.
[0096] A computer terminal may include a processor, at least one
input device (e.g., a keyboard), at least one output device (e.g.,
a video monitor), and/or at least one communication port (e.g., to
communicate with the controller).
Databases
Player Database
[0097] FIG. 5 is a tabular representation 500 of the player
database. The tabular representation 500 of the database includes a
number of example records 555-580 (or entries) each defining a
player. Those skilled in the art will understand that the database
may include any number of entries. The tabular representation of
the database also defines fields for each of the entries or
records. The fields specify: (i) a player identifier 510; (ii) a
player name 520; (iii) comp points 530 that have been earned by the
player; (iv) current activity 540 of the player (e.g., what game
machine the player is operating); and (v) notes 550 to store
information about the player (e.g., demographic information, player
preferences).
Casino Rep Database
[0098] FIG. 6 is a tabular representation 600 of the casino rep
database. The tabular representation 600 of the database includes a
number of example records 645-670 (or entries) each defining a
casino rep. Those skilled in the art will understand that the
database may include any number of entries. The tabular
representation of the database also defines fields for each of the
entries or records. The fields specify: (i) a casino rep identifier
610; (ii) a name 620 of the casino rep; (iii) specialty or training
630 of the casino representative (e.g., types of communication the
casino rep may be most appropriate for); and (iv) current activity
640 of the casino representative (e.g., whether available to assist
a player).
Trigger Database
[0099] FIG. 7 is a tabular representation 700 of the trigger
database. The tabular representation 700 of the database includes a
number of example records 740-780 (or entries) each defining when
the controller identifies a player to communicate with a casino
rep. Those skilled in the art will understand that the database may
include any number of entries. The tabular representation of the
database also defines fields for each of the entries or records.
The fields specify: (i) a time when the controller identified a
player to communicate with a casino rep; (ii) the reason 720 the
player was identified (also called "the trigger"); and (iii) the
player identifier 730 of the player who was identified.
Communication Database
[0100] FIG. 8 is a tabular representation 800 of the communication
database. The tabular representation 700 of the database includes a
number of example records 845-870 (or entries) each defining a
communication between a player and a casino rep. Those skilled in
the art will understand that the database may include any number of
entries. The tabular representation of the database also defines
fields for each of the entries or records. The fields specify: (i)
a communication device 810 used in the communication; (ii) a
description 820 of the communication; (iii) the player 830 and (iv)
the casino rep 840.
[0101] FIG. 9A shows one embodiment 900 of a game machine that
includes a communication device 920. The text on the video screen
910 of the game machine encourages a player to use the
communication device 920 to receive an offer from a casino rep.
[0102] FIG. 9B shows a second embodiment 950 of a game machine that
includes a communication device 970. The text on the video screen
960 of the game machine encourages a player to use the
communication device to receive an instruction from a casino
rep.
[0103] FIG. 10 shows an embodiment 1000 in which a bank of game
machines 1020 along with a sign 1010 encouraging players to use
their cellular telephones to communicate with casino reps.
Processes
[0104] Various processes in accordance with the present invention
are described below, followed by further detail on embodiments
thereof.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 11, a flow chart 1100 represents an
embodiment of the present invention. The particular arrangement of
elements in the flow chart of FIG. 11, as well as the other flow
charts discussed herein, is not meant to imply a fixed order to the
steps; embodiments of the present invention can be practiced in any
order that is practicable.
[0106] At step 1110, an indication that a player would like to
communicate with a casino rep is received. Communication between
the player and the casino rep is enabled (step 1120). The casino
rep presents an offer to the player (step 1130). If it is
determined at step 1140 that the player accepts the offer, then a
benefit in accordance with the offer is provided to the player
(step 1150).
[0107] Referring to FIG. 12, the gaming activities of a player are
monitored (step 1210). If a "trigger" occurred (step 1220) then
communication is initiated between the player and a casino rep
(step 1230) and the casino rep may also provide a service to the
player (step 1240).
[0108] Referring to FIG. 13, a player is identified (step 1310).
The player is enabled to communicate with a casino rep (step 1320),
to permit the player to receive a service from the casino rep. An
indication is received from the casino rep (step 1330) and the
state of the game machine is altered (step 1340) based on the
indication received from the casino rep.
[0109] Referring to FIG. 14, the gaming activities of a player are
monitored (step 1410). A casino rep is enabled to communicate with
the player (step 1420). A prompt is determined based on the gaming
activities of the player (step 1430), and the prompt is output to
the casino rep (step 1440).
[0110] With respect to the disclosed step of identifying a player,
a player may be identified in several manners, such as by receiving
an indication from a player, or by the controller selecting a
player.
[0111] According to one embodiment, a player may indicate that he
would like to communicate with a casino rep. The player may do this
for any of a variety of different reasons. For example, the player
may hope to receive an offer from a casino representative, receive
a benefit from a casino representative, or receive a service from a
casino rep. For example, a player may be confused as to how a game
is played and hope to have a casino rep explain it to him. As other
examples, the player may hope to communicate with a casino
representative, or may receive a benefit for identifying
himself.
[0112] According to one embodiment, a player may provide an
indication using an input device on a game machine. The game device
may in turn transmit an indication to the controller. For example,
a player may press a button on a slot machine marked "Give me an
offer.", a player may use a touch screen on a slot machine to
indicate that he would like help in understanding how to play a
game, a player may insert an "offer card" (e.g., a ticket, coupon,
plastic card, coin, chip, smart card, or other token) into a game
machine. For example, when a player arrives at a casino and checks
into the casino hotel, he may be given three offer cards by the
hostess. To request an offer, all a player has to do is insert one
of his offer cards into a game machine that he is operating.
[0113] According to one embodiment, a player may provide an
indication using a communication device. The communication device
may transmit an indication to the controller that identifies the
player. For example, a player may pick up a telephone on the side
of a game machine, thereby identifying himself and initiating a
telephone call to a casino rep. A player may instead press a button
on his wireless PDA to identify himself and indicate that he would
like to communicate with a casino rep. A player may instead dial a
phone number (e.g., a 1-800 number) on his cellular telephone to
identify himself and indicate that he would like to communicate
with a casino rep.
[0114] According to one embodiment, a player may provide an
indication by filling out a form. For example, a player may fill
out a registration form at a casino's front desk. By providing his
name, home address, and cellular telephone number, a player may
register himself to receive phone calls from casino reps while he
is at the casino.
[0115] According to one embodiment, a player may identify himself.
For example, a player may provide information about himself
including the player's name, the player's identification number
(e.g., from a tracking card), a contact identifier for the player
(e.g., the player's cell phone number, email address, credit card
number, hotel room, or postal address), a slot machine that is
being operated by the player (e.g., "I'm the player at slot machine
#25"), the player's location (e.g., a player may have a PDA that
has a built-in global positioning system), a sufficient number of
characteristics of the player to identify him relative to other
players in the area (e.g., "I'm a 45-year-old male with gray hair,
slightly balding, a mustache, wearing a red and white
Hawaiian-print shirt, smoking a cigar, and drinking margarita."),
an activity being performed by the player (e.g., "I'm the player
operating the ATM machine in the lobby"), a biometric of the player
(e.g., a scan of the player's fingerprint, a photograph of the
player), a player may wear an identification badge (e.g., a radio
frequency identification token, Vividot system by ImageID), a
player may indicate to a cocktail waitress or other casino employee
that he would like to receive an offer, a player may wave or make a
hand signal to a security camera in a casino that is used to
monitor the player's gaming activities.
[0116] According to one embodiment, a player may indicate a
condition or trigger upon the occurrence which he would like to
speak with a casino rep. The controller may then identify the
occurrence of this condition or trigger and enable the player to
speak with a casino rep.
[0117] For example, a player may request that he receive an offer
for additional funds anytime his credit balance on a game machine
falls below 10 coins. Alternatively, a player may request that he
receive an offer for increased payouts if he ever loses more than
ten spins in a row.
[0118] In one embodiment, a player may receive a benefit for
providing an indication. Examples of benefits include money (e.g.,
money or slot machine credits), products (e.g., a souvenir watch, a
sweatshirt, a magazine subscription), services (e.g., a free meal,
a haircut), discounts on products or services (e.g., 50% off the
list price of a hotel room), alternate currencies (e.g., comp
points), an entry into a game of chance (e.g., a lottery ticket, a
free spin on a slot machine), other consideration.
[0119] Money may be provided to a player in a variety of different
ways, including as a lump sum payment (e.g., through a check), as a
recurring payment (e.g., $100 a month for the next 3 months, $0.05
for each minute that the player converses with a casino rep), by
crediting a player's financial account (e.g., bank account, credit
card account, casino player account).
[0120] According to one embodiment, a benefit may be provided to a
party associated with the player (e.g., a friend of the player, a
family member, a charity). While providing a benefit a player's
favorite charity may not provide a tangible benefit to the player,
the player does receive an intangible benefit (e.g., he may feel
altruistic and good-hearted). For this reason, benefits to friends
of players may be particularly motivational for a player.
[0121] Alternatively, or in addition to the above embodiments, the
controller may select a player to communicate with a casino rep.
For example, the controller may identify a player who is initiating
a gaming session and may be confused about how to operate a game
machine, or a player who has lost money and may be interested in
receiving an offer that would allow him to recoup his loss.
[0122] According to one embodiment, the controller may select a
player using a rules-based system. One embodiment includes a
rules-based system that implements the invention. For example, the
controller may store a set of rules as a series of if . . . then
statements referencing one or more Boolean expressions (described
below). However, it is important to note that many other
embodiments are also possible. For example, a player may identify
himself as described herein. Alternatively, the controller could
select a player using a pseudo-random system in which a random
player is selected to communicate with a casino rep. According to
one embodiment, a player who communicates with a casino rep may not
even be identified until communication is established. For example,
the controller could randomly select a slot machine and cause a
telephone on that slot machine to ring. Whichever player picks up
the phone may then receive an offer from a casino rep.
Alternatively, a point system may be used to select a player. For
example, the controller could score each player on a variety of
different factors (such as those listed below) and then select the
player that has the highest score (or a plurality of players with
top scores). For example, the controller may allot one point to a
player for each coin bet, plus 100 points if a player is staying at
the hotel. If Alice is ranked at 321 points and Bob is ranked at
496 points, the controller may select Bob instead of Alice.
[0123] According to one embodiment, the controller may consider one
or more factors or variables when making its determination of a
player. Factors may be related to a player's gaming activities,
events relating to a player's visit to a casino (e.g., arrival,
hotel stay, meals, entertainment), characteristics of a player,
other players associated with the player, opportunities for revenue
management of a casino, offers that have been presented or will be
presented, indications provided by other parties (e.g., a casino
rep, a friend of a player), communication intended, characteristics
of casino reps.
[0124] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player by evaluating a Boolean expression. This Boolean expression
may reference one or more variables (i.e., factors) and may include
Boolean modifiers and conjunctions (e.g. AND, OR, XOR, NOT, NAND),
comparators (e.g., >, <, =, >=, <=, !=), mathematical
operations (e.g. +, -, *, /, mean, standard deviation, logarithm,
derivative, integral), and constants (e.g. $10, 20 coins, 300
credits, 0.02, 15%, pi, TRUE, yellow, "raining"). Examples of
Boolean expressions include: (fifty_dollar_bill_inserted) AND
(player_tracking_card_inserted), (time_of_day>6 pm) AND
(empty_hotel_rooms>30) AND NOT (player_staying_at_hotel),
(help_button_pressed=TRUE),
(free_money_hotline_phone_on_hook=FALSE)
[0125] If a Boolean expression is true then the controller may
determine that a communication link should be established between a
player and a casino rep.
[0126] According to one embodiment, the term "trigger" may be used
to refer to any event, condition, Boolean expression, or other
factor that causes the controller to identify a player to
communicate with a casino rep.
[0127] According to one embodiment, the controller may store a
trigger database, such as the one shown in FIG. 7. This embodiment
of the trigger database tracks when the controller identifies
players to communicate with casino reps. Each time the controller
identifies a player who should communicate with a casino rep, the
controller stores an indication of the time, the reason the player
was identified (a.k.a. "the trigger"), and what player was
identified. Note that players may be identified for a variety of
different reasons, including because a player himself provided an
indication.
[0128] According to one embodiment, the controller may select a
player to communicate with a casino rep based on the player's
gaming activities. For example, a player may be identified if he
has played a certain number of games, or if he has maintained a
certain rate of play. Examples of information about a player's
gaming activities include an amount of play, a rate of play, a
credit balance, comp points earned, events at a game machine that
is operated by a player, statistics relating to usage of a game
machine by a player.
[0129] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player based on factors relating to an amount of play by the
player. Examples include a duration of play (e.g., how many minutes
a player has operated a game machine), how many games a player has
played, how many comp points a player has earned, how long a player
uses a feature on the game machine (e.g., how long a player
operates a game machine in 3D Graphics Mode), how long a condition
has been true (e.g., How long has the player maintained a rate of
play of more than 3 games per minute? For how many games has the
player's credit balance been above 40 coins?).
[0130] An amount of play may be measured in a variety of different
units, including time (e.g., seconds, minutes, hours), occurrences
(e.g., number of spins, number of hands), currency (e.g., number of
coins, dollar value, comp points).
[0131] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player based on factors relating to the player's rate of play.
Examples include amount of currency per minute (e.g., coins per
minute, dollars per minute), average amount of currency per minute
(e.g., on a game machine that he is currently operating, on all
game machines that he has played since acquiring a player device),
average amount of currency per spin, average number of games per
minute, is a player currently operating a game machine? (i.e., is
his rate of play greater than zero?).
[0132] According to one embodiment, a rate of play may be measured
as an amount of play per unit. For example, the controller may
track an average amount of currency bet per spin (e.g., 2.3
coins/spin) or an average amount of currency bet per minute (e.g.,
6.7 coins/minute). Examples of units for a rate of play include per
session, per game play (e.g., a spin on a slot machine, a hand of
video poker), per minute (or other unit of time--seconds, hours,
days, etc.), per event (e.g., per spin, per usage of a feature, per
card selection in video poker, per coin bet).
[0133] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player based on factors relating to the player's credit balance.
Examples include current credit balance on a game machine, average
credit balance (e.g., on a game machine that he is currently
operating, on all game machines that he has played since acquiring
a player device).
[0134] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player based on a number of comp points earned by the player. Comp
points may be provided to a player for a variety of different
reasons, as are known to those skilled in the art.
[0135] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player based on events at one or more game machines that are
operated by a player. Examples of events at a game machine include
outcomes that are generated by the game machine, intra-game events
(e.g., a player is dealt a card in video poker, a player discards a
card in video poker, a player gains access to a bonus round on a
slot machine), payouts that are provided by the game machine (e.g.,
10 coin payout, a $100 jackpot), money is inserted into the game
machine by a player (e.g., using a bill acceptor or a coin slot),
money is removed from the game machine by a player (e.g., a player
presses the `cash out` button), a bonus is provided to a player
(e.g., a player may earn a 10 coin bonus for inserting a $20 bill
into a game machine), a player identifies himself (e.g., a player
may insert a player tracking card into the game machine), a feature
is activated or deactivated. According to one embodiment, a player
may receive a service as long as a feature is enabled, a player
operates an input device on the game machine (e.g., a player
presses the `spin` button on a slot machine, a player uses a touch
screen to select a card on a video poker machine), information may
be output to a player using an output device (e.g., an message may
be displayed to a player on a video screen alerting him that he
only has 10 coins left), indications from sensors (e.g., a game
machine may have a weight sensor that determines when a player is
standing in front of the game machine).
[0136] In addition to events themselves, the controller may track
information about events, including what event occurred, when the
event occurred (e.g., what date, what time of day, ordering of
events), how often an event occurred (e.g., 14 times, an average of
32.6 times per hour), how much money was added/removed/involved in
the event (e.g., How much money did a player insert into a game
machine? How large was a payout provided to a player?), results of
the event (e.g., What was a player's credit balance after he won a
jackpot? What is the state of a program on a game machine after the
game machine's software is upgraded?), what caused an event to
occur (e.g., why did a player win a jackpot of 100 coins?), other
information describing the event (e.g., what authentication code
was provided, what activation code was provided).
[0137] Alternatively, or in addition, the controller may identify a
player based on statistics relating to usage of one or more game
machines by a player. Examples of statistics include totals,
averages, percentages and ratios, revenues ("win"), theoretical
win, total prizes won, play patterns (events, times, order, speed
of play, strategies used by players).
[0138] Examples of totals include a total amount of time (e.g., how
many hours a game machine is operated, how many minutes a feature
is used), a total number of occurrences of an event (e.g., a total
number of offers accepted by players, a total number of times that
a feature is activated), a total value of a plurality of events
(e.g., a total amount of money cashed out of a game machine, a
total amount of payouts provided).
[0139] Examples of averages include average credit balance, average
coin-in per spin, an average number of occurrences of an event
(e.g., an average number of spins per minute), an average value of
a plurality of events (e.g., an average credit balance, an average
price of hotel rooms sold to players through a game machine)
[0140] Averages may be calculated on a `per unit` basis. For
example, the controller may calculate an average coin-in per game
(e.g., 2.3 coins per game) or an average coin-in per session (e.g.,
165.2 coins per session). Examples of units for averages include,
per session, per game play (e.g., a spin on a slot machine, a hand
of video poker), per minute (or other unit of time--seconds, hours,
days, etc.), per event (e.g., per usage of a feature, per card
selection in video poker).
[0141] Examples percentages and ratios include a percentage of time
(e.g., what percentage of time a game machine spends waiting for a
input from a player), a percentage of events (e.g., what percentage
of offers presented to a player are accepted), a percentage of
games (e.g., what percentage of games are played with a particular
feature enabled), a percentage of sessions (e.g., what percentage
of sessions are longer than 3 hours).
[0142] The controller may identify a player based on events
relating to a player's visit to a casino (e.g., arrival, hotel
stay, meals, entertainment), characteristics of a player, other
players associated with the player, opportunities for revenue
management of a casino, offers that have been presented or will be
presented, indications provided by other parties (e.g., a casino
rep, a friend of a player), communication intended, characteristics
of casino reps.
[0143] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player based on events or conditions relating to a player's visit
to a casino. Examples include when a player arrived at the casino,
whether the player has reserved a hotel room at the casino, visits
by a player to his hotel room, whether the player has purchased a
meal at restaurant associated with the casino, meals eaten by the
player at restaurant associated with the casino, the current time
of day is 6 PM, which is when the player usually eats dinner, the
current time of day is 8 AM, and the player must check out of the
hotel at 11 AM, the player receives a complimentary beverage, the
player requests a complimentary product or service, the player
receives a complimentary product or service, the player attends a
show or sporting event, previous visits to the casino by the
player.
[0144] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
player based on characteristics of the player. Examples of
characteristics of players include a player's preferences (e.g.
hobbies, interests), a player's demographic group, what language a
player speaks, a player's offer history--offers that have been made
to this player in the past (e.g., by this casino rep or other
casino reps).
[0145] According to one embodiment, the controller may select a
first player based on events or conditions relating to other
players who are in some way associated with the first player.
[0146] Examples of other players associated with the player include
a player who operating a nearby slot machine, a player who is
sharing a room with the player, a player who arrived on the same
bus as the player, family members, friends, and other associates of
the player.
[0147] Conditions or events relating to revenue management of a
casino may also be considered in selecting a player to communicate
with a casino rep. For example, to maximize revenues, a casino may
want to fill all of its hotel rooms on a Saturday night. If it is 6
PM on Saturday night and the casino hotel is only half full, then
this may result in a trigger (e.g. offering a free or discounted
room to the player if he agrees to perform some obligation).
[0148] As another example, to maximize revenue, a casino may desire
to maximize the number of slot machines that are being played at
any given time. A trigger may occur if only 10% of the slot
machines in a casino are currently being played (e.g. play slots
and get a pair of show tickets for the price of one).
[0149] In one embodiment, the controller may track offers that are
presented to players (e.g., using an offer tracking database, not
shown). Accordingly, the controller may select a player based on
events or conditions relating to one or more offers that may have
been presented to the player. Examples include the player completes
an activity specified by a previous offer, the player does not
perform an activity specified by a previous offer, the inventory of
offers reaches a certain level (e.g., in an embodiment where only a
limited number of offers may be presented), an activity or benefit
is added to the offer database, the player accepts or rejects an
offer, one or more subsidies that may be provided to a casino based
on an offer. For example, credit card issuer may provide a subsidy
to a casino if the casino rep offers a player a new credit
card.
[0150] According to one embodiment, the controller may select a
player based on one or more subsidies that are available from
subsidizers.
[0151] Indications by other parties may also act as triggers for a
player to communicate with a casino rep. For example, a casino rep
may indicate that an offer should be presented to a player. A
casino rep may indicate that a player seems confused and may need
assistance in learning how to play a game. A casino rep may
indicate that a player seems upset and may want to speak with a
casino rep. A family member, friend, or other associate of a player
may indicate that he would like the player to speak with a casino
rep. For example, a friend of a player may indicate that the player
just lost $50 at another casino and would be interested in earning
the money back. A party may specify a condition or trigger upon
which a player should speak with a casino rep. For example, a
casino rep may request that a player receive instructions any time
she starts playing a game that she has never played before.
[0152] A casino rep who is on the casino floor may use a PDA
(personal digital assistant) or other electronic device to identify
a player. For example, a hostess at a casino may use a wireless
handheld device to identify a player who might be interested in
receiving an offer. A casino rep may view players on a casino floor
using one or more security cameras, microphones, or other
surveillance devices. The casino rep may identify a player to speak
with a casino rep based on his observations of the player. A casino
rep review information about a player that is stored in a database
(e.g., the player database shown in FIG. 5). Based on this
information, the casino rep may determine that the player should
communicate with a casino rep.
[0153] A party may need to provide information about a player in
order to identify the player (e.g., by indicating the player's
name, location, cell phone number, physical appearance)
[0154] According to one embodiment, the controller may select a
player based on what communication may take place between the
player and a casino rep. Examples of factors relating to
communication that may take place between a player and a casino rep
include the content of the communication, what communication device
a player would use, what communication device a casino rep would
use, when the communication would occur, the potential duration of
the communication, activities of casino reps (e.g., which casino
rep is currently unoccupied?), skills of casino reps (e.g., selling
skills, language skills, knowledge of products described in the
offer), responsibilities of casino reps (e.g., waiting to greet
players at the door, keeping the slot machines clean, serving
drinks), commissions paid to casino reps (e.g., which casino rep
deserves an opportunity to earn additional commissions?), locations
of casino reps (e.g., which casino rep is closest to the player?),
preferences of casino reps (e.g., certain casino reps may prefer to
make certain types of offers), other measures of compatibility a
player (e.g., age, hobbies, interests, etc.).
[0155] For example, a casino rep may present an offer to a player,
a casino rep may assist a player in learning how to play a game. As
another example, a first player may be operating a game machine
that has a built-in video phone, whereas a second player may have a
cellular telephone. If the acceptance rate for offers presented by
video phone is greater than the acceptance rate for offers
presented by cellular telephone, then the controller may select the
first player instead of the second player. As another example, a
focus group (i.e., a type of communication) may be scheduled for 5
PM. If this time would be inconvenient for a player, then this
player may not be selected for the focus group.
[0156] As another example, if a long duration conversation is
intended between a player and a casino rep, then the controller may
refrain from selecting a player who is currently very busy or a
player who has tickets to a show in 5 minutes.
[0157] As another example, the controller may select a player based
on one or more casino reps who may be available to communicate with
the player. Examples of characteristics of casino reps that may be
considered in selecting a player include if a casino rep who only
speaks Spanish is available, then the controller may be careful to
select a player who also speaks Spanish.
[0158] Note that the controller may receive information about
triggers from a variety of sources, including the player himself,
game machines (e.g., a game machine may transmit a message to the
controller when a player inserts his tracking card), communication
devices (e.g., a video phone on a game machine, a cellular
telephone carried by a player), input devices (e.g., a button on a
game machine, a microphone on a communication device, a check-in
terminal in the hotel lobby), other parties (e.g., a casino
employee, a friend of a player), databases accessible by the
controller. For example, the controller may store information about
a player in a player database, such as the one shown in FIG. 5. The
controller may select one or more players to communicate with
casino reps based on information stored in the player database or
other databases.
[0159] According to one embodiment, the controller may identify a
casino rep to communicate with a player. Note that this step may be
performed before or after the controller identifies a player. For
example, the controller could identify a casino rep and then
identify a player, or the controller could identify a player and
then identify a casino rep.
[0160] According to one embodiment, the controller may select a
casino rep using a rules-based system. One embodiment of a
rules-based system that implements the invention is described
below. For example, the controller may store a set of rules as a
series of if . . . then statements referencing one or more Boolean
expressions. However, it is important to note that many other
embodiments are also possible, including a pseudo-random system
(e.g., the controller may randomly select a casino rep from a list
of casino reps who are available to communicate with players),
allowing the player to choose a casino representative (e.g., a
player may view a list of casino reps who are available and select
which casino rep he would like to communicate with from this list),
a point system may be used to select a casino rep. For example, the
controller could score each casino rep on a variety of different
factors (such as those listed below) and then select the casino rep
that has the highest score (or a plurality of casino reps with high
scores).
[0161] According to one embodiment, the controller may consider one
or more factors or variables when selecting a casino rep. Any of
the factors described herein for identifying a player may also be
used to determine a casino rep. Examples include what trigger
occurs (e.g., if a player is selected because he won a jackpot,
then he may communicate with a first casino rep, whereas a player
who is selected because he requested help may communicate with a
second casino representative), characteristics of casino reps since
different casino reps may have different characteristics (e.g.,
training, knowledge, specialties), characteristics of a player
(e.g., if a player only speaks French, then the casino rep may
select a casino rep who also speaks French), communication intended
(e.g., if it is intended that a casino rep present an offer to a
player, then a first casino rep may be selected, whereas a second
casino rep may be selected if it is intended that the casino rep
explain to a player how to play a game), past communication (e.g.,
a casino rep may have communicated with a player in the past and
developed a rapport with the player), other players associated with
the player (e.g., if a casino rep has already spoken with a friend
of a player), indications provided by various parties (e.g., a
player, a casino rep, a friend of a player), factors relating to
offers (e.g., different casino reps may be employed by different
subsidizers, subsidies.
[0162] According to one embodiment, the controller may store
information about characteristics of players in a player database,
such as the one shown in FIG. 5. In such an embodiment of the
player database, the "Notes" field stores information about
characteristics of players that may be useful in determining which
casino reps the player should communicate with.
[0163] According to one embodiment, the controller may determine a
casino rep using a casino rep database, such as the one shown in
FIG. 6. Such an embodiment of the casino rep database stores
information about a each casino rep's training and/or specialties,
which may be useful in selecting a casino rep for a particular type
of communication with a player. For example, the controller may
select casino rep "C-REP-4-14379051" (Diana) to communicate with a
player who speaks Spanish.
[0164] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may work out of a
call center. For example, the controller may act as a switch that
controls which players communicate with which casino reps.
[0165] According to one embodiment, casino reps may work in a
plurality of call centers, some of which may not be proximate to or
associated with the casino. For example, a first casino rep may
work in Ford Motor Company's call center, located in Detroit,
Mich., and a second casino rep may work in Charles Schwab's call
center, located in San Francisco, Calif. Either of these casino
reps may be identified to speak with a player operating a game
machine in Las Vegas, Nev.
[0166] According to one embodiment, various parties may employ a
casino rep to communicate with players. Examples of employers of
casino reps include the casino, product manufacturers, service
providers, advertising agencies, retailers.
[0167] According to one embodiment, the controller may enable
communication between a communication device operated by a player
and a communication device operated by a casino rep. For example,
the controller may act as a switch. Communication between a player
and a casino rep may pass through the controller. One example of
this embodiment is shown in FIG. 1A. For example, the controller
may use a first communication network to communicate with a
player's communication device, and the controller may use a second
communication network to communicate with a casino rep's
communication device. According to one embodiment, the controller
may act as a switch in a telephone network.
[0168] As another example, the controller may tell a casino rep or
a casino rep's communication device which player or player's
communication device to connect to. For example, after identifying
a player and identifying a casino rep, the controller may transmit
an indication of the player to the casino rep's communication
device. The casino rep's communication device may then connect to
the player's communication device using a communication network
(e.g., a telephone network).
[0169] As another example, the controller may tell a player or a
player's communication device which casino rep or casino rep's
communication device to connect to. For example, after identifying
a player and identifying a casino rep, the controller may transmit
an indication of the casino rep to the player's communication
device. The player's communication device may then connect to the
casino rep's communication device using a communication network
(e.g., a telephone network).
[0170] As another example, the controller may transmit message to
both a player's communication device and a casino rep's
communication device, indicating that they should connect to each
other.
[0171] In one embodiment, the availability of a casino rep (or of
any casino rep) may be indicated to the player at various times. It
can be important for a player to be notified when a casino rep (or
any casino rep) has become available. For example, when a player
has attempted to communicate with a casino rep, but no appropriate
rep was available at that time, that player may desire to be
notified when a rep (or any casino rep) becomes available. If more
than one such player has indicated such a desire, the players'
requests may be assigned to a queue.
[0172] Players in the queue can then all be notified when a casino
rep becomes available. Alternatively, the first player (or first
predetermined number of players) in the queue can be notified.
Alternatively, all players may be notified when a casino rep
becomes available.
[0173] The indication to the player that a casino rep is available
may include, e.g., an audio or visual indication, such as a
flashing light, text or images on the gaming device, a prerecorded
message. Alternatively, the casino rep may initiate communication
(e.g., with the first player in the queue).
[0174] According to one embodiment, a player or a casino rep may
need to wait for communication to be established. For example, a
casino rep may wait for a player's communication device to be
activated. For example, the controller may initiate an outbound
phone call from a call center. A casino rep may then wait for a
player to answer his phone before communicating with the
player.
[0175] As another example, a player may wait for a casino rep's
communication device to be activated. For example, a player may
initiate an inbound phone call to a call center. The player may
then wait for a casino rep to answer the phone call before
communicating with the casino rep.
[0176] According to one embodiment, the controller, a communication
device, or another device may indicate to a player or a casino rep
that communication is pending. For example, a telephone on a game
machine may ring, indicating to a player that a casino rep would
like to speak with the player.
[0177] As another example, a message may be displayed to a player
using a video screen on a game machine, "A casino rep would like to
speak with you."
[0178] As another example, a message may be displayed to a player
using a video screen on a game machine, "Want to receive 50
additional credits? Press here to communicate with a casino
rep."
[0179] As another example, a message may be displayed on a computer
terminal operated by a casino rep, "Player PLAYER-4-02834555 would
like to receive a tour of slot machine #175".
[0180] As another example, a phone console operated by a casino rep
may ring, indicating that a player would like to communicate with
the casino rep.
[0181] According to one embodiment, communication between a player
and a casino rep may be initiated in response to a player or a
casino rep activating a communication device. For example, a player
may pick up a telephone handset located on the side of a game
machine, thereby initiating communication with a casino rep.
[0182] As another example, a player may press a button on game
machine to indicate that he would like to use the game machine's
built-in video phone to communicate with a casino rep. The video
phone may subsequently be activated and the video screen on the
game machine may display a picture of the casino rep.
[0183] As another example, a casino rep may operate a computer
terminal to select a player that he would like to communicate with
and then initiate a phone call with this player.
[0184] As another example, a casino rep may operate a computer
terminal in a call center that is equipped with voice recognition
software. To answer an incoming phone call, the casino rep may
speak the words, "Answer phone" into a microphone.
[0185] Alternatively, a player or casino rep may not have to
activate a communication device in order to initiate communication.
For example, a video phone on a game machine may automatically be
activated whenever a player has been gambling for at least an hour
and his credit balance falls below 10 coins. Upon activation the
video phone may immediately enable communication between a player
and a casino rep.
[0186] According to one embodiment, one or more functions on a game
machine may be paused, disabled, or locked while a player is
communicating with a casino rep. For example, one or more controls
on a game machine may automatically be disabled whenever a player
activates a communication device associated with the game machine.
Since a player may be prevented from operating the game machine
while it is paused, the player may devote his full attention to
paying attention to communicating with a casino rep. This may
result in the casino rep having increased success in communicating
with the player (e.g., better offer acceptance rates, better
retention of education provided by a casino rep). In some
circumstances, the benefits of a casino rep getting a player's full
attention may outweigh any inconvenience to a player of pausing his
game machine.
[0187] For example, a game machine may be paused as soon as a
player picks up a telephone on the side of the game machine, a
player may prevented from placing bets while a casino rep is
presenting an offer to the player, a player may be prevented from
changing options on a game machine while a casino rep is giving the
player a tour of the game machine.
[0188] Alternatively, a player may continue to operate a game
machine while he communicates with a casino rep. A variety of
different types of communication devices are possible, including
telephones, video phones, and computer terminals. Similarly, a
variety of different types of communication are possible, including
audio, video, text, images, selections/responses). Also,
communication between a player and a casino rep may be
uni-directional communication or bi-directional communication.
[0189] Three or more parties may use communication devices to
communicate with each other simultaneously (e.g., a player may
communicate with two casino reps, a casino rep may communicate with
two players). Also, a player or casino rep may simultaneously
operate a plurality of communication devices.
[0190] Communication may include providing information and/or
receiving information.
[0191] Note that communication devices may communicate using a
communication network.
[0192] According to various embodiments, communication between a
player and a casino rep may include a player may receive a service
from a casino representative, a casino rep may market a product or
service to a player, a player may provide a service to a casino
representative.
[0193] According to one embodiment, a player may receive a service
from a casino rep. Examples of services that may be provided by a
casino rep include education (e.g., a casino rep may teach a player
how to operate a game machine), complimentaries ("comps") (e.g.,
order free drinks or food while operating a game machine),
pleasantries (e.g., a casino rep may welcome a player to a casino
and wish him good luck).
[0194] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may educate,
demonstrate, guide, or teach a player about a game machine. For
example, a casino rep may guide a player through the process of
operating a game machine. A player may use a telephone on a game
machine to communicate with a casino rep who is operating a
computer terminal and a hands-free phone. The casino rep may be
able to view information about how the player operates the game
machine (e.g., what buttons are pressed) and then provide
suggestions to the player as to how to operate the game machine
(e.g., "Great! Now that you've set your bet size, you can select
which reels you want to spin by pressing the flashing
buttons.").
[0195] As another example, a casino rep may give a player a "tour"
of the machine. For example, a game machine may have a bonus round
that is different from regular play on the game machine. In order
to show a player how this bonus round is played, how much fun the
bonus round is, and how much money the player can win during the
bonus round, a casino rep may give the player a tour of bonus
round. This tour may provide the player with free entry into the
bonus round, and the casino rep may explain various features of the
bonus round to the player as part of the tour.
[0196] As another example, a player may ask a casino rep questions
about how to operate a game machine (e.g., for a Jacks Or Better
video poker game, "When I have a pair of kings and 4 cards of a
flush, should I draw to the pair or to the flush?"). The casino rep
may then advise the player based on the question the player asked
(e.g., "Keep the pair of kings--even if you don't draw a better
hand, you'll still at least win your money back for the round."),
In the process of educating a player, a casino rep may remotely
operate a game machine. For example, a casino rep may show a player
how to operate a video poker machine, "Okay, so at the start of the
game, you're dealt 5 cards." The casino rep may then use a computer
terminal to remotely operate the game machine and cause 5 cards to
be dealt to the player. "In this case, you got a pair of kings and
three low value cards. So I'm going to select the three low value
cards by touching them . . . ." The casino rep may then remotely
operate the game machine to select the three cards, thereby
demonstrating to the player how to do this. " . . . and press this
button to register your changes." At this point, the casino rep may
again demonstrate to the player how to operate the game machine.
Finally, the casino rep may explain the result of the game to the
player, "So it turns out that you got lucky and drew another king,
giving you a total of 3 kings, which means that you win a payout of
15 coins."
[0197] As another example, a casino rep may monitor a player's play
at a game machine and provide suggestions. For example, a player
may receive assistance from a casino rep in playing a bonus round
on a game machine. As the player makes choices during the bonus
round, indications of these choices may be transmitted to the
casino rep and displayed to him using a computer terminal. The
casino rep may then comment on these choices and provide feedback
to the player using a communication device.
[0198] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may provide a
service of "pleasantries" to a player. Examples of pleasantries
include greetings, thank-you's, sympathy, encouragement, and
advice. For example, a casino rep may use a communication device to
welcome a player to a casino, wish him good luck, or console him
after a loss. According to one embodiment, a casino rep may be a
specialist in comforting players (e.g., an astrologer or
psychic).
[0199] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may market a
product or service to a player. For example, a casino rep may
advertise a product or service to a player. For example, a casino
rep may attempt to get a player to sign up for a new credit card or
purchase a new cellular phone at an electronics store associated
with the casino.
[0200] As another example, a casino rep may present an offer to a
player. For example, a casino rep may offer a player a free night's
stay at a hotel associated with the casino if the player agrees to
maintain a rate of play of at least 5 coins per minute for the next
hour. A wide variety of different types of offers are possible.
[0201] According to one embodiment, a player may provide a service
to a casino rep. For example, a player may provide information to a
casino rep. For example, a player may provide information about
himself (e.g., hobbies, home telephone number, purchasing history,
intended purchases) to a casino rep. This information may later be
used to market products or services to the player.
[0202] As another example, a player may participate in a focus
group. For example, a casino rep may lead a focus group comprised
of players who communicate using telephones on game machines.
[0203] According to one embodiment, the controller may determine a
subject of communication between a casino rep and a player. For
example, the controller may determine that a casino rep should
present an offer to a player or provide education to a player. In
addition, the controller may determine what offer to present or
what type of education to provide. An indication of the subject of
communication (e.g., determined by the controller) may then be
output to the player as described herein.
[0204] The controller may determine a subject of communication
based on a variety of factors, including events relating to a
player's visit to a casino (e.g., arrival, hotel stay, meals,
entertainment), characteristics of a player, other players
associated with the player, opportunities for revenue management of
a casino, offers that have been presented or will be presented,
indications provided by other parties (e.g., a casino rep, a friend
of a player), indications by the player (e.g., "I want to talk
about shopping for clothes"), communication intended,
characteristics of casino reps.
[0205] According to one embodiment, information relating to
communication between a casino rep and a player may be output to
the casino rep. Examples of such information include: information
about the player, and a prompt describing what the casino rep
should communicate. Each of these types of information is described
in additional detail below.
[0206] According to one embodiment, information about a player may
be output to a casino rep (e.g., using a computer terminal or
communication device). Examples of information about a player
include information that identifies the player (e.g., the player's
name, the player's identification number, a photograph of the
player), information relating to the player's visit to a casino
(e.g., when the player arrived at the casino what hotel room the
player is staying in, what other activities a player has enjoyed,
what show tickets a player has purchased, when a player is planning
on leaving the casino), information about a player's interests or
hobbies, demographic information about a player, information about
a player's gaming activities (e.g., what games the player has
played, how much money a player has won/lost, how long a player has
spent gambling), characteristics of a player (e.g., a player's
hobbies or interests), other players associated with the player
(e.g., a player's friends or family), other player related
information (factors) described herein.
[0207] Information about a player may be helpful to a casino rep
when communicating with a player. For example, a casino rep who
assists a player in learning how to play a game machine may find it
helpful to know what other game machines the player has played
before. Also, a casino rep who presents an offer to a player may
find it helpful to know what a player's hobbies and interests are,
so that he can understand why the player might want to accept the
offer (e.g., what benefits may be most enticing to the player).
[0208] As another example, a casino rep who offers a player a free
night's stay at casino hotel may find it helpful to know whether
the player has stayed at the casino hotel before and what family
members the player has who are also visiting the casino right
now.
[0209] According to one embodiment, a prompt may be output to a
casino rep. This prompt may describe what the casino rep should
communicate to the player. For example, a prompt may describe a
subject of communication, or a prompt may describe an offer that a
casino rep should present to a player (e.g., "Offer the player 50
credits if he agrees to test drive a Ford sometime in the next two
months").
[0210] In a second example of a prompt describing an offer, a
casino rep may be prompted to recite, "Good afternoon, Mr. Rogers,
and welcome to the Lucky Dice Casino. I hope your day is going
well, and I'd like to make you a special offer. I've been
authorized to give you a free meal ticket for two to eat at the
Coffee Shop, located here in the casino. They're having a special
today on prime rib, and beers are always just $1. All you have to
do to qualify for this offer is to sign up for a new credit card
from Blue Bank. If you're interested, I can process your credit
card application right now. Would you like to accept this offer for
a new credit card and a free meal a the Coffee Shop?"
[0211] A prompt may be a script that a casino rep should recite to
a player. For example, a casino rep may be prompted, "Hi, my name
is Andy and I'm going to give you a quick tour of the Rascally
Rabbit slot machine. The first thing you want to do is decide how
many coins you want to bet--1, 2, or 3 coins. To change the number
of coins that you bet, press the `increase bet` and `decrease bet`
buttons on the left side of the video screen, next to handle.", A
prompt may describe a topic of conversation (e.g., "Assist the
player in learning how to play the game machine", or "Convince the
player to continue gambling for another 10 minutes"), A prompt may
be expressed in shorthand of some sort. For example, a casino rep
prompted with the phrase, "Activity: credit card, Benefit: Meal".
Through his training the casino rep may know that this prompt means
that he should offer the player a free meal ticket for two to eat
at the Coffee Shop if the player signs up for a new credit card
from Blue Bank.
[0212] According to one embodiment, information (e.g., a prompt,
information about a player) may be output to a casino rep using a
computer terminal or a communication device. For example, the
controller may determine information (e.g., a prompt, information
about a player) and then transmit it to a computer terminal or
communication device operated by a casino rep. The computer
terminal or communication device may then display the information
to the player. Note that a casino rep may operate a plurality of
devices; for example, a casino rep may operate both a computer
terminal and a hands-free telephone.
[0213] Information (e.g., a prompt, information about a player) may
be displayed to a casino rep at various times, including before the
casino rep communicates with the player, while the casino rep is
communicating with the player, after the casino rep communicates
with the player.
[0214] Information (e.g., a prompt, information about a player) may
be output to a casino rep in various forms, including text (e.g., a
video screen on a computer terminal may display a text message to
casino representative), audio (e.g., a casino rep who is speaking
on a telephone with a player may hear a second voice, not heard by
the player, that coaches him on what to say to the player), video
(e.g., a video screen on a computer terminal may display an icon
indicating what type of offer a casino rep should make to a
player.
[0215] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may use a computer
terminal to control a game machine. For example, a casino rep may
provide an indication using an input device (e.g., a keyboard) on a
computer terminal. This indication may be transmitted to a game
machine using at least one communication network. The game machine
may then respond to the indication in an appropriate manner.
[0216] A casino rep may use a computer terminal to control various
functions of a game machine, including adjusting a bet size (e.g.,
1 coin, 2 coins, or 3 coins), placing a bet (e.g., funded by a
credit balance stored in the game machine), requesting change
(e.g., activating a `change request` light on top of the game
machine), cashing out (e.g., causing a game machine to dispense one
or more coins), identifying a player (e.g., providing a player
identifier to the game machine), providing an input relating to
game play (e.g., selecting a card in video poker), enabling a
feature (e.g., enabling Auto-Play mode), disabling a feature (e.g.,
disabling Jackpot-Only mode), navigating a menu system, controlling
an input device (e.g., a casino rep may use a computer terminal to
move a cursor), controlling an output device (e.g., a neon sign
that a casino rep can turn on and off using a computer terminal),
dispensing a product (e.g., a game machine may include at least one
product dispenser, which may be activated by a casino
representative), increasing a credit balance (e.g., a casino rep
may provide credits to a player as a bonus or for accepting an
offer), decreasing a credit balance (e.g., a player may use a
credit balance on a game machine to purchase one or more products
or services from a casino representative), pausing, disabling, or
locking a game machine (e.g., a casino rep may disable the controls
of a game machine while he is communicating with a player), linking
machines (e.g., a casino rep may assist one or more player by
linking the game machines of a plurality of players together for
group play).
[0217] Note that not all implementations will have all of these
capabilities. For example, a casino may be concerned with the
security risks associated with increasing the credit balance on a
game machine using a remote computer terminal. Accordingly, various
features (e.g., allowing a casino rep to adjust a credit balance)
may be disabled in some embodiments of the invention.
[0218] According to one embodiment, a game machine may require a
casino rep to provide a password, authentication code, or other
secret code in order to be able to control a game machine using a
computer terminal. Requiring a casino rep to provide a password may
help to prevent computer hackers or untrustworthy players from
controlling a game machine surreptitiously.
[0219] According to one embodiment, a casino rep may communicate
with a player at substantially the same time that he controls a
game machine. For example, a casino rep may control a game machine
while he communicates with a player. For example, a casino rep may
demonstrate how to use a game machine by controlling a game machine
using a computer terminal while simultaneously using a
communication device to explain how to use the game machine.
[0220] As another example, a casino rep may communicate with a
player and then control a game machine. For example, a casino rep
may provide a benefit to a player based on the player accepting an
offer.
[0221] As another example, a casino rep may control a game machine
and then communicate with a player. For example, a casino rep may
activate 3D Graphics Mode on a game machine and then communicate
with a player to point out the benefits of 3D Graphics Mode.
[0222] According to one embodiment, a player may control a game
machine by communicating with a casino rep. For example, a game
machine may be set up so that certain functions (e.g., activating a
feature) may only be performed by casino rep operating a computer
terminal. In order to control the game machine, a player may use a
communication device to describe an action to a casino rep (e.g.,
"I'd like to use Jackpot-Only Mode.") Based on the player's
description, the casino rep may then use a computer terminal to
control the game machine (e.g., activate Jackpot-Only Mode on the
game Machine). One might even consider the casino rep to be a part
of the "operating system" for the game machine.
[0223] Note that there are various advantages to having a casino
rep control a game machine instead of having a player control the
game machine himself. Advantages include convenience to a player.
If a game machine has lots of controls, a large number of options,
or a complicated user interface, a player may become confused about
how to operate a game machine. While the player may know what
action he would like perform, he may not be able to figure out how
to control the game machine to perform this action. In scenarios
like this one, the player may find it more convenient to
communicate with a casino rep and have the casino rep control the
game machine. There are also fewer player complaints. If players
are confused by how to operate a game machine, they may make
mistakes, causing a game machine to perform undesired functions.
These players may then complain to a casino's customer service
department, costing the casino money.
[0224] Further, there are marketing opportunities. Each time a
player uses a communication device to communicate with a casino
rep, the casino rep may have an opportunity to market a product or
service to the player. For example, as part of the processing of
assisting a player in operating a game machine, the casino rep may
advertise a feature on the game machine to the player or present an
offer to the player. Players may be particularly receptive to
offers presented by casino reps who are helping them to operate a
game machine, resulting in increased revenues for a casino or other
party operating the controller.
[0225] Alternatively, or in addition, the controller may be able to
control a game machine remotely.
[0226] An offer as described herein generally includes two
components: an activity that should be performed by the player (or
obligation to be completed), and a benefit to be provided to the
player contingent on the performance of the activity.
[0227] As used herein, the term "offer" is used for convenience,
since activities and benefits are often presented to a player
simultaneously by a casino rep.
[0228] In order to earn a benefit, a player may perform an
activity. Examples of activities include signing up for a new
credit card, and answering survey questions about a product or
service.
[0229] In many cases, an activity has value to a subsidizer. For
example, a credit card issuer may be willing to pay up to $50 to
get a customer to sign up for a new credit card, since acquiring
this customer will likely result in more than $50 of profits for
the credit card issuer. A casino or other party may receive a
subsidy from a subsidizer based on an offer.
[0230] Basic types of activities include purchasing a product or
service, using a product or service, selling a product or service,
providing a product or service, providing information, viewing
information, performing an action, telling a friend about a product
or service.
[0231] Note that there are many other types of activities and that
some activities do not fit clearly into any one category. The
discussion below provides examples of each of these basic types of
activities.
[0232] Examples of purchasing a product or service include signing
up for a magazine subscription, buying $20 worth of books from
Amazon.com, signing up for a warranty.
[0233] Examples of using a product or service include receiving a
new credit card, using a new long distance telephone provider,
printing at least 100 pages per week from an HP laser printer,
receiving 3 free issues of a magazine.
[0234] Examples of providing a product or service include providing
legal advice, medical advice, donating an old television set.
[0235] Examples of selling a product or service selling a used
product on eBay, providing tax advice at a rate of $10 per
hour.
[0236] Examples of providing information answering survey
questions, providing product ratings and reviews, indicating
demographic information, purchasing information.
[0237] Examples of viewing information include watching a
television commercial or other advertisement, listening to an audio
tape about the health dangers of smoking cigarettes, reading a
pamphlet that explains how to use a product.
[0238] Examples of performing an action include playing a game of
chance or a game of skill, applying for a credit card, performing a
repeated action (e.g. purchasing a product from a retailer at least
once a month for the duration of an insurance policy, maintaining a
balance on a credit card), performing a customer-segmenting
activity (i.e. an activity that allows a seller to segment its
customer base), convincing another party (e.g., another player) to
perform one or more activities.
[0239] Examples of gambling-related activities include playing a
game for a designated period of time, playing a designated number
of games (e.g., 200 handle pulls at a slot machine), placing a
designated number (or dollar value) of bets, winning a designated
number of games, winning a designated jackpot, winning a designated
amount of money, playing a designated game, playing a game at a
designated slot machine, playing a game in a designated fashion
(e.g., always make the maximum bet, always hit with 16 in
blackjack), signing up for a player tracking card, providing
gambling-related information (e.g., inserting a player tracking
card, answering survey questions).
[0240] In addition, an activity may include an expiration
condition. Examples include: an activity must be finished by a
designated time (e.g., before 6 PM tonight), an activity must be
started before a designated event (e.g., before the end of a
baseball game), an activity must be performed before a designated
occurrence (e.g., before another player wins a jackpot of $100 or
more), an activity must be performed before a designated condition
is true (e.g., while there are at least 4 players at a particular
bank of slot machines).
[0241] An activity may include a time-based requirement. Examples
include: an activity must be finished by a designated time (e.g.,
before 6 pm tonight), an activity must be started after a
designated event (e.g., after eating dinner), an activity must take
place during a designated time period (e.g., between 4 am and 8
am).
[0242] In addition, there may be restrictions as to how and where
an activity is performed. Examples include: an activity must be
performed while a player is at the casino.
[0243] Note that a player may have to perform multiple activities
in order to receive a benefit. For example, a player may have to
play 100 hands of video blackjack today and eat lunch at the casino
buffet tomorrow, a player have to perform a repeated activity
(e.g., purchasing a product from a retailer at least once a month
for duration of an insurance policy, maintaining a balance on a
credit card).
[0244] According to one embodiment, a player's completion of an
activity may be based on activities of other players. Examples
include: a player may perform a competitive activity (i.e., an
activity where success is determined relative to at least one other
player), a player may perform a team activity (i.e., an activity
where players work together to accomplish a common goal).
[0245] According to one embodiment, the player may have to perform
one of a plurality of activities. This means that the player may
have a choice of what activity to perform. For example a player may
required to either gamble continuously for the next hour or buy a
ticket to a boxing match. If the player performs either activity,
then he will receive a benefit.
[0246] According to one embodiment, a player may receive help in
performing an activity. In this case, one or more other parties may
perform an activity in the place of the player. For example, a
player may be required to perform an activity of playing a slot
machine continuously for 4 hours. The player may enlist three
friends to help him perform this activity--each person plays the
slot machine for one hour, and then gives up his seat to the next
person.
[0247] As another example, a player may be required to perform an
activity of signing up for 3 magazine subscriptions. As it turns
out, the player is only interested in receiving two magazines:
Scientific American and Soap Opera Digest. Fortunately, the
player's friend also wants a subscription to Scientific American.
Together, they sign up for 3 magazine subscriptions, and the player
receives the benefit.
[0248] As another example, a player may be required to perform an
activity of completing a Tae-Bo workout. This player doesn't enjoy
Tae-Bo, but his wife does. So the player's wife performs the
activity of completing the Tae-Bo workout. Alternatively, it may
not be permissible for a player to receive help in performing an
activity.
[0249] According to one embodiment, it may be permissible for an
activity to have been performed in the past. For example, a player
may be asked to perform an activity of placing at least $100 worth
of bets at video poker. If the player has already placed $150 worth
of bets at video poker, then this may constitute performance of the
activity. Note that a player may be asked to provide evidence that
he performed an activity in the past (e.g., by inserting his player
tracking card or providing a receipt).
[0250] According to one embodiment, it may be permissible for a
player to make a forward commitment to perform an activity.
According to one embodiment, a forward commitment is an agreement
to perform an activity at some point in the future. For example, a
player may be required to perform an activity of test-driving a
Ford Escort. The player may agree to perform this activity later
(e.g., once he returns home from visiting the casino), thereby
completing the activity. A benefit may then be provided to the
player's friend. Note that forward commitments may include
time-based requirements and expiration conditions.
[0251] According to one embodiment, a forward commitment may be
penalty-secured. This means that a player may be penalized for not
completing the activity specified in the forward commitment. For
example, a player's credit card may be charged $100 if he does not
complete an activity by a specified date. Examples of penalties
include monetary penalties that may be charged to a player's credit
card, debit card, player account or other financial account.
According to one embodiment, a player may be required to provide a
payment identifier (e.g., a credit card number) when signing up for
a penalty-secured forward commitment. Other examples of penalties
include denial of products or services (e.g., the player may not be
permitted to gamble at the casino any more), the player may be
required to perform one or more additional activities, and other
forms of consideration
[0252] Penalty-securing a forward commitment may be necessary to
avoid a number of different methods of cheating the system. For
example, if a forward commitment was not penalty secured, then a
player may promise to perform an activity, receive a benefit, and
then never perform the activity as promised.
[0253] In exchange for performing an activity a player may receive
a benefit. A variety of different benefits are possible, including,
money (e.g., money or slot machine credits), products (e.g., a
souvenir watch, a sweatshirt, a magazine subscription), services
(e.g., a free meal, a haircut), discounts on products or services
(e.g., 50% off the list price of a hotel room), alternate
currencies (e.g., comp points, non-convertible casino chips), an
entry into a game of chance (e.g., a lottery ticket, a free spin on
a slot machine), other consideration.
[0254] Note that determining a benefit may also include determining
the value of the benefit. For example, the controller may determine
the value of a benefit based on factors like a player's current
credit balance on a game machine, or an amount of money that a
player has lost during a period of time.
[0255] Money may be provided to a player in a variety of different
ways, including: as a lump sum payment (e.g., through a check), as
a recurring payment (e.g., $100 a month for the next 3 months), by
crediting a player's financial account (e.g., bank account, credit
card account, casino player account).
[0256] According to one embodiment, a benefit may be provided using
a game machine. For example, a player may receive a benefit of 50
credits on a slot machine that he is operating. Additional
functionality on a game machine may be enabled as a benefit. For
example, a player may receive a benefit of being able to bet 5
coins per hand on a video poker machine that usually only lets
players bet 3 coins per hand. Odds or payout tables for a game
machine may be altered to provide a benefit to a player. A game
machine may include a product dispenser that dispenses a product to
a player (e.g., a coupon, a gift certificate, tickets to a show or
sporting event). A hopper on a game machine may dispense coins to a
player.
[0257] According to one embodiment, a benefit may be provided using
a communication device. Examples include: a player may use a
telephone on a game machine (i.e., a communication device) to make
long distance phone calls to his friends and family. A broadcast of
a championship boxing match may be transmitted to a closed circuit
television that is operated by a player. A communication device may
include a product dispenser that dispenses a product to a player
(e.g., a coupon, a gift certificate, tickets to a show or sporting
event).
[0258] According to one embodiment, a benefit may be provided to a
party associated with the player (e.g., a friend of the player, a
family member, a charity). While providing a benefit a player's
favorite charity may not provide a tangible benefit to the player,
the player does receive an intangible benefit (e.g., he may feel
altruistic and good-hearted). For this reason, benefits to friends
of players may be particularly motivational for a player. According
to one embodiment, a benefit provided to a friend of a player may
be contingent on the friend performing one or more activities. For
example, a player's friend may be asked to perform an activity in
order to receive a benefit.
[0259] According to one embodiment, the controller may determine
whether a player has performed an activity designated by an offer.
This may be helpful when determining whether to provide a benefit
to the player (since this benefit will typically not be provided if
a player fails to perform the activity).
[0260] The method of determining whether an activity is performed
is often dependent on the type of activity that a player has been
prompted to perform. For example, if a player is prompted to
perform an activity of making 100 handle pulls at a slot machine,
then the controller may monitor the number of handle pulls that the
player has made at the slot machine. Examples of ways that the
controller may determine whether an activity has been performed
include: receiving information from a casino rep (e.g., a casino
rep may indicate that a player has filled out an application for a
new credit card or agreed to purchase a magazine subscription),
receiving information form the player (e.g., when a player performs
an activity of making a forward commitment to test drive an
automobile), receiving information from one more other computer
systems (e.g., if a player is required to perform an activity of
signing up for a new credit card, then the controller may receive
information from a credit bureau), monitoring a player's activities
at one or more slot machines (e.g., by communicating with a slot
machine through a communication network), storing data regarding a
player's gambling activities (e.g., in the player database shown in
FIG. 5), receiving information from one or more slot machines,
receiving information from one or more point-of-sale terminals
(e.g., for activities in which the player is required to purchase a
product or service), monitoring conditions related to the activity
(e.g., monitoring the current time if the activity has an
expiration date)
[0261] Note that in many cases, the activity to be performed by a
player comprises making an agreement or forward commitment (e.g.,
agreeing to purchase a product or service). In this case, the
player may complete the activity just by making the agreement, and
have the benefit provided to him almost immediately.
[0262] According to one embodiment, a player may use an
authentication code to prove that he performed one or more
activities. This authentication code may be an alphanumeric code,
password, or other information that provides the controller with a
reasonable assurance that the player performed one or more
activities as required. According to one embodiment, an
authentication code is produced using a cryptographic algorithm
(e.g., a cryptographic hash function). Typically an authentication
code is produced by a device that has the ability to determine
whether a player performed an activity. For example, a slot machine
may output an authentication code indicating that a player made 100
handle pulls at that slot machine. An authentication code may be
output using an output device (e.g. a printer, a video
monitor).
[0263] According to one embodiment, the controller may have
incomplete information as to whether a player performed an
activity. For example, a dealer at a casino may be responsible for
verifying that a player has gambled at least $300 at blackjack, but
the dealer may forget to perform this job. In this case, the
controller may resolve this situation in one of a variety of
different ways, including: assume that the player did in fact
complete the activity and provide the benefit to the player, assume
that the player did not complete the activity and not provide the
benefit to the player, provide a reduced or alternative benefit to
the player, offer to allow the player to perform a second activity
to earn the benefit, ask other employees (or even other players)
whether the activity was completed.
[0264] According to one embodiment, a player may be reminded of an
offer while performing an activity. Examples include: a video
screen on a slot machine may display a message to the player
telling him how much longer he has to gamble before he earns a
benefit, an animated character in a video game may remind the
player that if he continues to play the game well, he may be able
to win a benefit, a casino rep may use a communication device to
communicate with a player and remind him to perform an activity.
Similarly, a casino rep may remind player of a benefit that he may
receive for performing the activity, or other terms of an accepted
offer.
[0265] According to one embodiment, the controller may indicate to
the player whether or not he has performed an activity. Examples
include: A slot machine that is being operated by the player may
display a text message, "Nice work! You just won a subscription to
People magazine.", a strobe light on top of a video poker machine
may flash and an audio speaker may proclaim to a player, "Whoops!
You just missed your opportunity to earn 100 comp points.", a video
monitor on a slot machine may display a message, "You're not done
yet! If you play 113 more handle pulls at this slot machine, then
you'll win a pair of tickets to Wrestlemania.". The controller may
prompt a casino rep to communicate with the player. For example, a
casino rep may use a communication device to congratulate a player
on performing an activity correctly.
[0266] According to one embodiment, if a player performs an
activity specified in an offer, then he may receive a benefit.
[0267] According to one embodiment, a benefit provided to a player
may be determined based on the activity performed. Examples
include: the benefit may be based on what activity is performed.
For example, a player may be given a choice of gambling for 3 hours
at a slot machine or gambling for 3 hours at a video poker machine.
If the player gambles for 3 hours at the slot machine, then he
earns tickets to a musical. If the player gambles for 3 hours at a
video poker machine, then he earns tickets to a boxing match. The
benefit may be based on how well an activity is performed. For
example, a player may be given the opportunity to earn 5 comp
points for every survey question he answers. If the player answers
12 survey questions, then he earns 60 comp points.
[0268] A benefit may be provided by a variety of different parties,
including: the controller (e.g., by crediting a player's financial
account), the casino (e.g., a casino employee may mail a check),
the casino rep (e.g., the casino rep may give a player 500
credits), another party (e.g., a subsidizer, a product
manufacturer, a service provider).
[0269] While the above methods of providing benefits to a player
may result from the acceptance by a player of one or more offers,
it should also be noted that the casino may provide benefits to
players without the requirement that they accept an offer. For
example, a premium player on the floor who has been playing for
more than two hours may trigger the controller to identify the
player and have a casino rep communicate with the player and
provide him a comp such as a free dinner or show.
[0270] According to one embodiment, a player may not perform the
activity specified in an offer. The controller may respond to this
occurrence in at least one of a variety of ways, including: not
providing the benefit to the player, providing a reduced or
alternative benefit to the player, offering to allow the player to
perform a second activity to earn the benefit, not providing offers
in the future to that player.
[0271] According to one embodiment, a player may be penalized if he
does not perform an activity specified in an offer. For example,
the controller may output an offer to the player in which the
player gets $15 if he pulls the handle of a slot machine 100 times.
However, if the player accepts this offer and does not spin the
slot reel 100 times, then the player will be penalized $15.
Similarly, a player's performance of an activity may be
penalty-secured.
[0272] According to one embodiment, a casino or other party
operating the controller may receive a subsidy based on
communication between a casino rep and a player. For example, a
magazine publisher may pay a casino $0.50 if a casino rep signs a
player up for a free trial subscription to a magazine.
[0273] A variety of different subsidizers (i.e., parties that
provide subsidies) are possible, including: product manufacturers
(which wants a casino rep to advertise a product to a player or
attempt to sign a player up for a free trial of the product),
service providers (which want a casino rep to convince players to
sign up for a service), advertising agencies (e.g., an advertising
agency may want a casino rep to promote products or services to
players).
[0274] A subsidy may any form of consideration, including money,
products, and services. Also, note that a subsidy of money may be
provided in a variety of different ways, including: as a lump sum
payment (e.g., through a check), as a recurring payment. For
example, a subsidizer may pay a casino $10,000 to have players view
100,000 hours of advertisements, by crediting a casino's financial
account (e.g., bank account, a company account), en mass. For
example, a subsidizer may provide a plurality of subsidies to a
casino through a single money transfer.
[0275] Note that a subsidy may be provided at various different
times including before, after or substantially simultaneously to
communication between a player and a casino rep.
[0276] A subsidy may be provided based on factors such as: an
amount of communication (see examples below), player behavior
resulting from communication with a casino rep (see examples
below), a subject of communication between a casino rep and a
player, an offer presented by a casino rep, acceptance or rejection
of an offer by a player (e.g., acceptance rates, total number of
acceptances), an activity performed by a player (e.g., what
activity is performed, when it is performed).
[0277] A subsidy may be provided based on an amount of
communication. Examples include: how long a casino rep communicates
with a player, how many times a casino rep communicates with a
player, how much at least one casino rep communicates with at least
one player.
[0278] A subsidy may be provided based on player behavior resulting
from communication with a casino rep. For examples, a subsidy may
be provided based on: a player purchasing at least one product or
service (e.g., a subsidy may be provided if a player switches his
long distance telephone service provider), a player's gaming
activities (e.g., a subsidy may be provided if a player's
theoretical win per hour increases after a casino rep tutors the
player on how to operate a game machine), a player indicating
interest in at least one product or service (e.g., a subsidy may be
provided if a player visits a subsidizer's website), or a friend or
associate of a player performing an activity. In such an
embodiment, a player may have recommended or otherwise advised his
friend or associate to perform the activity. For example, a subsidy
may be provided if 2 friends of a player also sign up for free
magazine subscriptions.
[0279] Note that a wide variety of other factors are possible,
including factors described herein.
[0280] According to one embodiment, the controller may determine a
value of a subsidy to be provided by a subsidizer. For example, the
controller may determine that 400 offers were presented to players
by casino reps, meaning that a subsidizer owes $100 to the casino
or another party operating the controller.
[0281] Values of subsidies may be based on a variety of factors,
such as those described above and elsewhere in this disclosure.
[0282] According to one embodiment, the controller may track
subsidies to be provided by subsidizers. For example, the
controller may store a subsidy database (not shown) that tracks how
much at least one subsidizer owes.
[0283] According to one embodiment, the controller may communicate
with at least one subsidizer to determine information about
subsidies. For example, the controller may negotiate with merchants
to develop offers, develop the language of the offers, select
casino reps to present the offers, and handle back office billing
and penalties associated with the offers. In addition, the
controller may store information about subsidizers in a subsidizer
database (not shown).
[0284] According to one embodiment, a subsidizer may provide a
subsidy to a casino. Alternatively, or in addition, a subsidizer
may provide a subsidy to one or more other parties, including: a
player, a casino rep who communicates with a player, a party who
operates the controller (e.g., in an embodiment in which the casino
does not operate the controller).
[0285] According to one embodiment, a portable communication device
may be provided to a player by a casino or other party. According
to one embodiment, a player may obtain a communication device in a
variety of different ways, including: borrowing a communication
device, renting or leasing a communication device, purchasing a
communication device, a communication device may be given to a
player free of charge, a player may supply his own communication
device.
[0286] According to one embodiment, a player may obtain a
communication device from a variety of different parties,
including: a casino (e.g., a player may borrow a communication
device from the front desk at a casino), a merchant (e.g., a player
may purchase or rent a communication device from a merchant that
maintains a shop in casino).
[0287] According to one embodiment, a player may provide a player
identifier when obtaining a communication device. Examples of
player identifiers include: a player's name (e.g., first name, last
name), a player's home address, a player's home telephone number, a
player tracking card number, a player's hotel room number (e.g., if
a player is staying at a hotel that is associated with a casino), a
player's email address, a payment identifier belonging to the
player.
[0288] Note that obtaining a player identifier from a player may:
help in monitoring game play by the player, help to deter players
from stealing communication devices.
[0289] According to one embodiment, a player may provide a payment
identifier when obtaining a communication device. Examples of
payment identifiers include: a credit card number, a debit card
number, a financial account number (e.g., a bank account number), a
home billing address, a player's hotel room number (e.g., if a
player is staying at a hotel that is associated with a casino).
[0290] Note that obtaining a payment identifier a player may: be
useful in obtaining a payment from a player (e.g., a rental or
lease payment for using a communication device), help to prevent
players from stealing communication devices. For example, if a
player does not return a communication device, then a casino may
charge his payment identifier for the cost of the communication
device.
[0291] According to one embodiment, a player may provide a security
deposit other consideration to obtain a communication device.
According to one embodiment, a security deposit may be any form of
consideration (e.g., money, alternate currencies, products,
services). According to one embodiment, a security deposit may be
returned to a player if the player returns the communication
device. Note that obtaining security deposits from players may help
to prevent players from stealing communication devices.
[0292] According to one embodiment, a player may provide
consideration to rent, lease, or purchase a communication device.
Different types of consideration include: money, an alternate
currency (e.g., casino chips, game tokens), a player may perform a
value-added activity (e.g., answering a plurality of survey
questions), other forms of consideration (e.g., products,
services)
[0293] According to one embodiment, a player may borrow or rent a
communication device, as described herein. In one embodiment, a
player who borrows or rents a communication device may return the
communication device. Examples include: a player may return a
communication device to a casino desk, a player may drop a
communication device into a deposit bin next to an exit of a
casino, a player may signal for a casino employee to visit a slot
machine where he is gambling and retrieve a communication device
that he is finished using.
[0294] According to one embodiment, a player may be asked to return
a communication device according to various conditions. Examples of
conditions include: a communication device must be in working order
when it is returned, a communication device must be returned during
a specified time period, a communication device must be returned at
a specified location, a communication device must have been used in
a prescribed manner (e.g., a player may be required to use a
communication device for at least 50% of the time that the device
is in his possession. This may prevent players from borrowing
communication devices and then not using them.)
[0295] According to one embodiment, a player may receive a benefit
for returning a communication device. For example, a security
deposit may be refunded based on a player returning a device. In a
second example, a player may receive a ticket for a free luncheon
buffet in exchange for using and returning a communication device.
According to one embodiment, a benefit may only be provided to a
player if a condition is true (e.g., the player returned the device
on time, the player used the device for at least 80% of the time
that he borrowed it).
[0296] According to one embodiment, a player who does not return a
communication device may be charged a penalty fee or be asked to
provide other consideration. For example, a player's credit card
may be charged for the price of a communication device if the
player does not return the communication device. According to one
embodiment, a penalty may be levied to a player if a condition is
true (e.g., the player returned a device late, the player used the
device for less than 10% of the time that he borrowed it).
[0297] According to one embodiment, a player may not be required to
return a communication device, as described above. For example, a
communication device may belong to a player (e.g., a player may use
his PDA as a communication device), or be disposable (e.g., a
disposable cell phone).
[0298] It is worthwhile to note that the invention may also apply
to devices other than game machines. For example, a player may
operate an automatic teller machine (ATM) at a casino to obtain
money to pay for gaming, shopping, entertainment, or other
activities at the casino.
[0299] An ATM machine may include a communication device that
enables a player to communicate with a casino rep and receive a
service from the casino rep. For example, a player may use a
telephone on an ATM machine to converse with casino rep, receive an
offer from the casino rep, and accept the offer. The ATM machine
may then provide a benefit to the player (e.g., by dispensing cash
to the player).
[0300] Although the present invention has been described with
respect to a preferred embodiment thereof, those skilled in the art
will note that various substitutions may be made to those
embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present invention.
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