U.S. patent application number 13/950579 was filed with the patent office on 2013-11-21 for group play of a lottery game.
The applicant listed for this patent is Walker Digital, LLC. Invention is credited to Nancy Palumbo, Michael W. Patterson, Stephen C. Tulley, Jay S. Walker.
Application Number | 20130310133 13/950579 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39639331 |
Filed Date | 2013-11-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130310133 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Walker; Jay S. ; et
al. |
November 21, 2013 |
GROUP PLAY OF A LOTTERY GAME
Abstract
Methods and systems for facilitating play of group lottery games
are described. In an embodiment, a process includes establishing at
least two groups for play of a group lottery game, wherein each
group includes a plurality of players. The method also includes
determining at least one winning player from each group of a first
round of the multiplayer lottery game, and advancing each of the
winning players to a second round.
Inventors: |
Walker; Jay S.; (Ridgefield,
CT) ; Patterson; Michael W.; (Mount Vernon, NY)
; Palumbo; Nancy; (New York, NY) ; Tulley; Stephen
C.; (Monroe, CT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Walker Digital, LLC |
Stamford |
CT |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
39639331 |
Appl. No.: |
13/950579 |
Filed: |
July 25, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12600422 |
Apr 23, 2010 |
8500537 |
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PCT/US08/63933 |
May 16, 2008 |
|
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13950579 |
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60938666 |
May 17, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/17 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3276 20130101;
G07F 17/329 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/17 |
International
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20060101
G07F017/32 |
Claims
1. A method, comprising: establishing at least two groups for play
of a group lottery game, wherein each group comprises a plurality
of players; determining at least one winning player from each group
of a first round of the multiplayer lottery game; and advancing
each of the winning players to a second round.
2. The method of claim 1, in which determining at least one winning
player for each group for the first round comprises comparing
lottery entry data for each player of each group to at least one
winning lottery ticket criteria.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising establishing a
plurality of second groups that comprise the winning players for
the second round of the multiplayer lottery game.
4. The method of claim 3, further comprising: determining at least
one winning player from each of the plurality of the second groups;
and awarding a prize to each winning player of the second
round.
5. The method of claim 4, further comprising: awarding a prize to
each player of the plurality of groups of the first round
associated with each winning player of the second round.
6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: determining at least
one winning player from each of the plurality of the second groups;
and advancing each of the winning players of the plurality of
second groups to a third round of the group lottery game.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising awarding a group
performance bonus for each player of a group that meets
predetermined criteria.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the predetermined criteria
comprises at least one of a number of players in the group, a
number of participating players of the group in a predetermined
time period, or an amount of money spent by the group playing group
lottery games in a predetermine time period.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising awarding a grand prize
to a winning player of a subsequent round.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising awarding a prize to
each member of the group associated with the grand prize winning
player.
11. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting group
lottery game status information to at least one player of at least
one group.
12. The method of claim 1, in which determining at least one
winning player comprises basing a winning outcome for the winning
player on events that occur during group lottery game play.
13. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving player
identification data and group identification data from at least one
of a retailer device or a player device.
14. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving player
preferences data from at least one player of a group, the player
preferences data including at least one of a selection of a token
or a selection of a game board.
15. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing group play
lottery data in a group play ticket status database.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the group play lottery data
comprises at least one of a group identifier, a group play game
identifier, a group play game instance identifier, group member
ticket identifiers, group member ticket indicia, or group member
ticket status data.
17. The method of claim 1, in which advancing the winning players
to the second round comprises awarding a prize to each winning
player.
18. The method of claim 1, in which establishing at least two
groups for play comprises receiving a group activation number for
at least two groups.
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising receiving a player
number from each of a plurality of players of the at least two
groups.
20. A method, comprising: establishing a plurality of groups for
play of a group lottery game, wherein each group includes a
plurality of players; determining an aggregate performance value
for each group; and determining, based on the aggregate performance
values, that at least one group satisfied group play prize
criteria.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/600,422 entitled GROUP PLAY OF A LOTTERY
GAME filed Nov. 16, 2009 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,500,537 on
Aug. 6, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0002] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/600,422 claims the
benefit of priority of PCT Application No. WO2008/114536 filed May
16, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0003] PCT Application No. WO2008/114536 claims the benefit of
priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/938,666,
filed May 17, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for
conducting group play of multiplayer lottery games.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0005] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a system or network
environment including a plurality of lottery retailer terminals, a
communications network, and a controller;
[0006] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an embodiment of
exemplary components of a lottery retailer terminal;
[0007] FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram illustrating an
embodiment of exemplary components of a lottery operator
controller;
[0008] FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of an example of a
lottery game system including a lottery server in communication
with a plurality of player communication devices through a
communications network;
[0009] FIG. 5 is an exemplary embodiment of a multiplayer lottery
game ticket for a plurality of players of a group according to the
invention that includes an activation code portion and a plurality
of player portions having player access codes;
[0010] FIGS. 6A to 6G are examples representing various graphical
user interfaces that may be accessed and utilized by lottery game
players to perform various tasks associated with multiplayer
lottery game play;
[0011] FIG. 7 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a
process for determining which particular players of a plurality of
groups of players will be permitted to go onto a further round of
lottery game play;
[0012] FIG. 8 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a
process for providing a prize for a group or team of players who
satisfied group play prize criteria;
[0013] FIG. 9 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Player database;
[0014] FIG. 10 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group database;
[0015] FIG. 11 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group Play Games database;
[0016] FIG. 12 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group Play Payout database; and
[0017] FIG. 13 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group Play Ticket Status database.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] Many domestic and international jurisdictions currently
offer some form of lottery game. Traditionally, such games may
include instant lottery games (for example "scratch-off" games)
and/or on-line lottery games (for example, periodic draw games such
as 6/49 lotto, pick-3, Powerball.TM., and the like). Generally,
jurisdictions operate lottery games to generate revenues which may
be subsequently utilized by (or on behalf of) the lottery
jurisdiction to fund general and/or specific civic initiatives (for
example to provide capital for infrastructure improvements, funding
for education initiatives, and the like). Given the societal
benefits that lottery proceeds serve to fund, lottery operators
have sought to maximize sales, and thus the overall return to their
constituents. As a result, lottery operators are continually
seeking new ways to expand and retain the overall population of
lottery players.
[0019] It would thus be beneficial to provide systems and methods
for conducting lottery games that differ from traditional lottery
games (for example, the instant and/or periodic draw games
mentioned above). A benefit of such an approach would be to appeal
to certain players who might not otherwise view traditional lottery
product offerings as compelling, valuable, and/or entertaining.
Accordingly, this disclosure includes descriptions of various
non-limiting embodiments that facilitate play of a lottery game
with a team or group aspect. That is, group play, team play, and/or
other type of multiplayer play of a lottery game are facilitated in
accordance with the processes and systems disclosed herein. A
plurality of players may be regarded as or associated as a team (in
competition with another team), or as a group (in competition with
another group or team), and may play a lottery game to win prizes
(e.g. cash and/or merchandise prizes) as described below.
[0020] A lottery ticket may be defined as a voucher or ticket that
contains one or more lottery entries which are eligible to be
redeemed for a lottery payout or prize. For example, a traditional
lottery ticket includes a set of numbers that may, in whole or in
part, match a set of winning numbers that have been drawn at random
by a lottery operator. An "instant win" or "scratch" ticket is a
winning lottery ticket if it contains matching symbols, instant win
symbols, or any markings indicating that it is a winning ticket,
according to the rules of the game embodied by that lottery
ticket.
[0021] A newly purchased lottery ticket has a redemption value that
is unknown to a customer at the time of purchase. The lottery
ticket may be of the type requiring a drawing, in which a customer
may choose a set of numbers that he thinks will match with a set of
numbers drawn at a later date. Alternately (or in addition), the
lottery ticket may comprise an "instant win" or "scratch" type
lottery entry, in which a winning or losing result can be
determined immediately after purchase.
[0022] A lottery retailer may be defined as a merchant who sells
lottery tickets at a particular location, verifies and/or
authenticates winning lottery tickets, and redeems authenticated
winning tickets for an eligible prize. In some embodiments, the
lottery retailer also facilitates activation of a team or group
lottery game by accepting entries from players, some of whom may be
required to activate a lottery game for a group or for a team of
players, as explained below. Examples of various lottery retailers
include, but are not limited to, convenience stores, gas stations,
and supermarkets.
[0023] Customers may also purchase and, in some cases, redeem
lottery tickets at automated lottery terminals. An automated
lottery terminal is an electronic device that may be capable of
automatically reading some or all of the information located on (or
otherwise embodied by) a lottery ticket (for example, sense and
translate mark information selected by customer with a #2 pencil on
a lottery entry form, read a bar code, read a ticket identifier,
and the like). Such a device may also be used (either alone or in
combination with another device, such as a controller) to determine
the validity and redemption value, for example, of a lottery
ticket, as well as to sell and print new lottery tickets. As will
be explained in more detail below, an automated lottery terminal
may be connected via a communications network to a lottery
controller.
[0024] 1. Lottery Communications Network
[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a system or network environment 100 that
includes a plurality of lottery retailer terminals 102-1 to 102-N,
a communications network 104 and a controller 106. Generally, any
or all of the retailer terminals 102-1 to 102-N may operate to: (i)
receive information associated with one or more lottery tickets
including such data as: (a) ticket and/or lottery entry
identifier(s), (b) entry indicia, and (c) redemption values (payout
values); (ii) transmit any or all of the received information to
the controller 106 via the communications network 104; and (iii)
output information including such data as: (d) information defining
lottery entries for individuals and/or groups and (e) information
associated with one or more groups or teams and/or redemption
values.
[0026] In general, each retailer terminal 102-1 to 102-N shown in
FIG. 1 will correspond to (or be associated with) a particular
lottery retailer. For example, retailer terminal 1 (102-1) of FIG.
1 may be associated with a first lottery retailer such as a
convenience store, and retailer terminal 2 (102-2) of FIG. 1 may be
associated with a second lottery retailer such as a supermarket. It
should be understood that any number of lottery retailer terminals
might be employed in a system 100, along with any number of
corresponding controllers 106.
[0027] The controller 106 may operate to: (i) receive, determine
and/or store information associated with one or more lottery
tickets including such data as: (a) ticket/entry identifier(s) and
(b) entry indicia; (ii) determine a redemption value (for example,
a prize amount) associated with a lottery ticket; (iii) receive a
redemption request associated with the lottery ticket; (iv)
determine a time associated with the redemption request; and (v)
transmit an indication of the redemption value to a lottery
retailer terminal (for example, for output to a display accessible
by a lottery player and/or by a lottery terminal operator).
[0028] The retailer terminal 102-1 of FIG. 1 may be configured to
perform some or all of the functions of the controller 106. Thus,
in some embodiments, the controller 106 and the lottery retailer
terminal 102-1 (or another given retailer terminal and controller
pairing) may be considered as the same "device".
[0029] Generally, as explained above, the communications network of
FIG. 1 may include one or more local and/or wide-area network(s),
proprietary and/or public network(s) (for example, the Internet)
for facilitating two-way data communications between the retailer
terminals 102-1 to 102-N and the controller 106. The lottery
controller may communicate with lottery retailer terminals directly
or indirectly, via a wired or wireless medium such as the Internet,
via a local area network (LAN), via a wide area network (WAN), via
an Ethernet, via a Token Ring, a telephone line, a cable line, a
radio channel, an optical communications line, a satellite
communications link, or via any appropriate communications means or
combination of communications means. Any number and type of devices
may be in communication with the lottery controller, and
communication between the lottery retailer terminals and the
lottery controller 106 may be direct or indirect, such as over the
Internet through a Web site maintained by computer on a remote
server, or over an online data network including commercial online
service providers, bulletin board systems and the like. In some
embodiments, the devices may communicate with one another over RF,
cable TV, satellite links and the like. A variety of communications
protocols may be part of any such communications system, including
but not limited to: Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth
and TCP/IP.
[0030] 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 days or weeks at a time. In some embodiments, a server
computer may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example,
methods described herein may be practiced on a stand-alone device
and/or a device in communication only with one or more other
devices. In such an embodiment, any functions described as
performed by the computer or data described as stored on the
computer may instead be performed by or stored on one or more other
devices.
[0031] 2. Lottery Retailer Terminal
[0032] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of some exemplary components of a
lottery retailer terminal 200. The lottery retailer terminal 200
may include one or more processor(s) 202 such as the Intel.RTM.
CORE 2 DUO.TM. processor, manufactured by INTEL Corporation, or
other processors manufactured by other companies, such as the AMD
Athlon 64.TM. processor manufactured by the Advance Micro Devices
company. Generally, the processor is operative to perform or
process instructions, and in particular, to operate in accordance
with the various methods described herein. For example, the
processor 202 may be operable to allow the lottery retailer
terminal 200 to transmit data to (and receive data from) the
controller 106 of FIG. 1. More specifically, the processor 202 may
enable the transmission of data defining or identifying a lottery
ticket or entry.
[0033] Accordingly, the lottery retailer terminal 200 may further
include one or more input device(s) 204. The input devices may
include components such as an optical scanner and/or a barcode
scanner, for reading and/or for deriving information associated
with a lottery entry. For example, a lottery ticket may include
registration marks, authenticity data, various codes, micro-printed
indicia, one or more sense marks, and/or other lottery indicia that
must be read, for example, to distinguish between one or more
lottery entries (which may all be contained on one lottery ticket,
for example). Examples of additional input devices include, but are
not limited to, a keypad, a mouse, an image capturing device (for
example, an optical character recognition (OCR) device), a
biometric reader, a portable storage device (for example, a memory
stick), and the like.
[0034] According to some embodiments, the lottery retailer terminal
input device(s) 204 may comprise or include a clock. The clock may
be employed to detect, derive and/or append time and/or date
information for use by the controller 106 to: (i) create a data
record corresponding to lottery tickets or lottery entries
purchased at the lottery retailer terminal 200, and/or (ii) to
determine redemption time and/or date information associated with
lottery tickets and/or lottery entries, and/or (iii) determine
whether a lottery player has redeemed a lottery ticket that, for
example, enables him to proceed to a second round of a lottery
game. Details of specific processes concerning team or group
lottery play and redemption of winning lottery tickets are
presented in more detail below.
[0035] The lottery retailer terminal 200 of FIG. 2 may further
include one or more output device(s) 206. Such output device(s) 206
may include such components as a display for outputting information
to a lottery player and/or to a terminal operator (for example,
aggregate performance information and/or payout amounts), one or
more benefit output devices (for example, a cash drawer, a currency
dispenser), a printer for producing a physical record (such as a
paper slip, receipt, ticket, voucher, coupon, and the like) that
defines a lottery ticket or lottery entry, an audio/video output
device(s), and the like.
[0036] The lottery retailer terminal 200 may also include one or
more communications port(s) 208, such as a serial port, modem or
the like. Generally, the communications port 208 is operable to
facilitate two-way data communications between the lottery retailer
terminal 200 and the controller 106 shown in FIG. 1, but may be
used to facilitate data communications between other devices as
well. In some embodiments, the communications port 208 may
facilitate the transmission of information between the lottery
retailer terminal 200 and a player device such as a personal
digital assistant (PDA), cell phone and/or a dedicated device (for
example, a proprietary electronic and/or digital device).
[0037] The lottery retailer terminal 200 may further include a data
storage device 210 such as a hard disk, optical or magnetic media,
random access memory (RAM) and/or read-only memory (ROM), or the
like memory device. Generally, the lottery retailer terminal data
storage device 210 stores a software program, the software program
enabling the processor 202 of the retailer terminal 200 to perform
various functions including some or all of the various processes or
steps described herein. For example, as noted above with respect to
FIG. 1, the retailer terminal 200 can be configured to perform some
or all of the functions of the controller (and vice versa) such
that the controller 106 and the lottery retailer terminal 200 (or,
referring to FIG. 1, a given lottery terminal and controller
pairing) may be considered as the same "device". An example
retailer terminal available in the marketplace and that may be
adapted to perform various functions described herein is the
EXTREMA.RTM. clerk-operated lottery terminal, distributed by
Scientific Games Corporation of Alpharetta, Ga.
[0038] In some embodiments, a lottery sales device may be utilized
in place of a lottery retailer terminal 200. Such a lottery sales
device may be implemented as a system controller, a dedicated
hardware circuit, an appropriately programmed general-purpose
computer, or any other equivalent electronic, mechanical or
electro-mechanical device. Thus, in various embodiments, a lottery
sales device may comprise, for example, a Video Lottery Terminal
(VLT) that may include a touch sensitive screen for use by a
player, a personal computer (capable of communication with a remote
lottery server), a vending machine, a telephone, or a portable
handheld device (for example, a device similar to a personal
digital assistant (PDA) or other analog or digital communications
device). The lottery sales device may comprise any or all of the
devices of the aforementioned systems. In some embodiments, a user
device such as a PDA, cell phone, and/or portable gaming unit (e.g.
the Playstation.TM. Portable (PSP.TM.), distributed by Sony
Corporation) may be used in place of, or in addition to, some or
all of the device components.
[0039] 3. Lottery Operator Controller
[0040] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the
components of a lottery operator controller 300. Similar to the
lottery retailer terminal 200 of FIG. 2, the lottery operator
controller 300 may include one or more processors such as the
Intel.RTM. CORE 2 DUO.TM. processor, manufactured by INTEL
Corporation, or other processors manufactured by other companies,
such as the AMD Athlon 64.TM. processor manufactured by the Advance
Micro Devices company. Such a processor 302 functions to process
instructions, and in particular, to operate in accordance with
various methods described herein. For example, the processor 302
may operate to allow the lottery operator controller 300 to
transmit data to (and receive data from) the lottery retailer
terminal 200 shown in FIG. 2. More specifically, the controller
processor 302 may enable the transmission of data defining or
identifying a particular lottery ticket or entry, as well as
information defining a payout or prize associated with that lottery
ticket to a specific one of the lottery retailer terminals 102-1 to
102-N shown in the lottery network 100 of FIG. 1. Thus, the lottery
operator controller 300 may be implemented as a system controller,
a dedicated hardware circuit, an appropriately programmed
general-purpose computer (for example, a lottery server), or any
other equivalent electronic, mechanical or electro-mechanical
device. In various embodiments, a lottery operator controller may
comprise, for example, a personal computer (which communicates with
a remote lottery sales terminal) or a mainframe computer.
[0041] The lottery operator controller 300 may further include one
or more input device(s) 304. Examples of such input devices include
a keypad, a mouse, a touch-screen, a random number generator, a
microphone, and other digital or analog input devices. The lottery
operator controller input device(s) 304 may comprise or include a
clock. As described above, the clock may be employed to derive time
and/or date information for use by the lottery controller 300 to
generate a data record corresponding to lottery tickets or lottery
entries purchased at the lottery retailer terminal 200, and/or to
determine redemption time and/or date information associated with
lottery tickets and/or lottery entries, and/or to determine whether
a team or group of lottery players have purchased and/or redeemed
one or more tickets.
[0042] The lottery operator controller 300 may further include one
or more output device(s) 306. Examples of output devices 306
include a monitor or other display for outputting information to a
user of the lottery operator controller (for example, for
displaying information such as statistical or sales data, win and
loss information and/or payout amounts), a printer for producing a
physical record (for example, a report, a paper slip, a voucher, a
coupon, a ticket) of such data, and the like. In addition, the
lottery operator controller 300 may include one or more
communications ports 308, such as a serial port, modem or the like,
operable to facilitate two-way data communications between the
operator controller 300 and one or more lottery retailer terminals
200, as described above with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0043] The lottery operator controller 300 may also include a data
storage device 310 (such as a hard disk or hard drive, a
media-based (removable) memory, or the like). The lottery operator
controller data storage device 310 stores at least one software
program 312, which includes a program to enable the processor 302
to perform some or all of the various steps and functions of at
least one implementation of the methods described in detail herein.
In addition, the lottery operator controller data storage device
310 may operate to store various databases, for example, a player
database 314, a group database 316, a group play games database
318, a group play games payout database 320, and a group play
ticket status database 322. The lottery player database 314 may
include player identifier data and contact information, and data
associated with one or more groups of players, which will be
explained in detail below. The group database 316 may include group
identifiers, group names, a group leader player identifier, and
other information associated with one or more groups. The group
play games database 318 may include a group play game identifier,
group play game name, a group play game type, and game rules, for
example. The group play games payout database 320 may include group
play game identifiers, group play payout criteria, and group game
payout information. The group play ticket status database 322 may
include data of a particular group including a group identifier, a
group play game identifier, group member ticket identifiers, group
member ticket indicia, and group member ticket status.
[0044] The lottery operator controller may include a lottery ticket
server device that is located at a lottery ticket printing
facility, and may also function to manage the ticket printing
process. The lottery operator controller may also function to
facilitate organizing lottery players into teams or groups.
[0045] 4. Multiplayer Lottery Game System
[0046] FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of an example of a
multiplayer lottery game system 400 that includes a lottery server
402 in communication with a plurality of player communication
devices 406-1, 406-2 to 406-N through a communications network 404.
The player communication devices 406-1 to 406-N may include such
devices as pagers, personal computers, handheld display devices,
personal digital assistants (PDA's), set-top display devices,
cellular telephones that include a display, and/or proprietary
digital communications devices. Such player communication devices
could be used to submit required player information to the lottery
server, provide sufficient information to permit the player to
follow and enjoy multiplayer lottery game play, and/or in some
cases to authorize necessary or desired changes in the lottery game
play.
[0047] For example, a player communication device 406-1 may be used
to communicate player identifying information and player selections
to the lottery server 402. The lottery server 402 may comprise a
computer device, such as a Web server, operated on behalf of or, in
conjunction with, a lottery authority. The lottery server 402
operates, for example, to obtain information and to set up lottery
game player groups, to determine lottery outcome data, and to
communicate instructions and lottery information (that may include
the lottery outcome data) to the player communication devices 406-1
to 406-N of players actively participating in the same lottery
game.
[0048] Communications between the lottery server 402 and the player
communication devices 406-1 to 406-N may be facilitated by way of a
communications network 404, which may be a computer network such as
the World Wide Web, the Internet, a local area network, postal
mail, or any combination thereof. In accordance with the processes
described herein, a plurality of player communication devices 406-1
to 406-N may be located remotely from the lottery server 402, for
example, at a home of a player or at a lottery agent.
[0049] The lottery server 402 may comprise any computing device
operable to administer lottery games in accordance with the methods
described herein. Thus, the lottery server 402 may be configured in
a manner similar to the lottery operator controller 300 described
above with reference to FIG. 3. In particular, the lottery server
402 preferably includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU) that
includes a clock associated therewith, and operates to execute
instructions of a program stored in memory (e.g. Read Only Memory
(ROM)). During execution of the program instructions, the CPU
temporarily stores information in the Random Access Memory (RAM).
In addition, the CPU may be coupled to a data storage device (not
shown) and/or transaction processor. The data storage device may
include one or more of a player database, a group database, a group
play games database, a group play games payout database, and a
group play ticket status database. Other databases could also be
stored for use by the transaction processor and/or the CPU. In
general, the transaction processor may be utilized to manage the
contents of the data storage device.
[0050] In order to communicate with the player communication
devices 406-1--406-N, the lottery server 402 preferably includes a
communication port (not shown). The communication port may be
coupled to both the CPU and the data storage device. Thus, the CPU
can control the communication port to receive information from the
data storage device and to transmit the information to the player
communication devices. Information may also be received from the
player communication devices via the communication port. Note that
the communication path between the communication port and the
communication devices need not be hardwired. As noted above, the
communication devices may include a personal computer, a pager, a
handheld device including a display (for example, such as a PDA),
or a cellular telephone, and some or all such devices may employ
wireless communication components and/or protocols.
[0051] In addition, optionally in communication with the CPU of the
Lottery Server 402 is a Random Number Generator (RNG) for providing
random outcomes for the multiplayer lottery game play. Under
control of a program stored, for example, in a storage device or in
ROM, the CPU initiates the RNG to generate a random number that
could be used to determine winning lottery outcomes. The CPU may
also be responsive to, for example, a signal from the player
communication device (for example, a player's personal
computer).
[0052] 5. Other Devices
[0053] In some embodiments, a kiosk (not shown) may be configured
to execute or assist in the execution of various lottery game
processes. A kiosk could comprise a processor and a storage device
or memory as described above. A kiosk may also include various
input devices (such as a keyboard, a mouse, buttons, an optical
scanner for reading barcodes or other indicia, a CCD camera, and
the like), output devices (like a display screen and/or audio
speakers), benefit output devices (such as a coin tray and/or a
currency dispenser), communications ports, and the like. A kiosk
may be configured to communicate with a lottery controller or
lottery server. In some embodiments, kiosks may execute or assist
in the execution of various lottery functions, as described
herein.
[0054] Lottery players may also use one or more computing devices
to obtain more information about the lottery games, and/or the
specific lottery game that the player is playing. For example, a
player may utilize a personal computer to access a web site that
contains group lottery game instructions, team lottery game round
information, winning lottery entry payout information, aggregated
group play information, and the like.
[0055] 6. Exemplary Lottery Entries
[0056] FIG. 5 depicts an example of a multiplayer or group lottery
game ticket 500 for a lottery game to be played by a group of
players (or a team of players). This example of a group or
multiplayer lottery game ticket 500 includes a group activation
slip 502 (or other embodiment of an indicia) for the group itself,
and four respective player portions 504-1, 504-2, 504-3 and 504-4
for each individual member (lottery player) of the group. The group
activation slip 502 includes an indication of the lottery game 506,
an instructions section 508, a group activation identifier 510
(which may be an alpha-numeric identifier), an indication of an
estimate of the jackpot 512, and other information 514 (which may
include lottery game rules, or an indication of where a player can
find the rules) and/or a date and time of activation or
purchase.
[0057] Each of the lottery game player slips 504-1 to 504-4 of this
example includes a player ticket identifier 516, a lottery game
description 518, a unique player identifier 520, a barcode and
serial number 522, and may include other information such as
lottery game rules and the like. The multiplayer or group lottery
ticket 500 illustrated by FIG. 5 may be purchased at a lottery
retailer, for example, and this particular example of a multiplayer
lottery ticket accommodates up to four players. One skilled in the
art will recognize that other group lottery game tickets could
provide for more or less lottery game players, and could include
more or less information as appropriate for a particular type of
group lottery game. In addition, a group lottery ticket 500 may
include one or more security features such as micro-printed
portions, embedded security threads, and/or holograms, to prevent
or deter counterfeiting of lottery tickets.
[0058] A lottery player may purchase such a lottery ticket at a
retail location having a lottery retailer terminal 200 (see FIG. 2)
configured to printed the group lottery game ticket 500 at the time
of purchase. Thus, the lottery retailer terminal may include an
integral printer device, or a printer may be a peripheral device or
an output device 206 capable of printing group lottery game
tickets. In addition, a lottery player may be permitted to purchase
such tickets electronically using a player communication device
(see FIG. 4) and also print them by using a personal printer
device, such as a computer printer and the like, that is in
communication with the player communication device. In some
embodiments, the printer devices are capable of printing group
lottery game ticket data that is capable of being scanned by
various scanning devices such as bar code scanners and the like.
Such devices may also be capable of printing security features on
group lottery game tickets such as specific patterns, and/or
micro-printed data, and/or designs and/or alpha-numeric codes, and
the like.
[0059] It should be understood that, in some embodiments, a lottery
game player purchases a group member lottery entry with a personal
device, and thus may not be provided with a physical lottery
ticket. Instead, an electronic version of the multiplayer lottery
ticket or portions thereof may be provided to the player, for
example, via electronic mail to an email account of the lottery
player. Of course, the player could print out such an electronic
version of the multiplayer lottery ticket, for example, by using a
home computer and printer.
[0060] FIGS. 6A to 6G provide examples of web pages that may be
accessed by lottery game players to purchase lottery game entries,
to sign up for multiplayer lottery game play, to find lottery game
information, to select a group of players, to customize lottery
game aspects, and to track performance of multiplayer game play,
and the like. In particular, FIG. 6A depicts an exemplary web page
for a lottery game authority that includes links to information
pertaining to instant/other games that are on sale 602, provides
winning numbers and payout information 604 for lottery games that
have had drawings completed, and a link 606 to a multiplayer
lottery game called "Monopoly". If a lottery player clicks on the
link to the multiplayer lottery game 606, then a sign up page 610
such as that shown in FIG. 6B may appear, which illustrates an
exemplary sign up interface including a "Sign Up" box 612 that
allows a player to create a user account and to indicate at least
one preference 614 for receiving game information. If a player
already has a user account and is playing a multiplayer lottery
game, the player may be provided with a login interface 620 shown
in FIG. 6C for use in accessing an online multiplayer game.
[0061] FIG. 6D depicts an exemplary interface 621 that includes a
menu 622 that allows a player to input a group identifier 624 and
player identifier 626, and to customize aspects of game play. To
customize aspects of lottery game play, the player may be able to
select a token or other icon (e.g. an avatar) representing the
player from a selection menu 628 and/or a game board theme or
design from a second selection menu 630.
[0062] FIGS. 6E to 6G depict examples of displays, game
information, game events, and interface elements in accordance with
various described embodiments. FIG. 6E shows an initial lottery
game board 650 wherein the multiplayer lottery game that has not
yet been played by the four players, Maria, Jim, Thomas and Sue. As
shown, FIG. 6E includes: a depiction of a "Weekday Multiplayer
Monopoly" game board 652; a team name 654 ("Highridge Moguls"); a
total team points field 656, indicating a total number of points
earned by the group, which may be applicable in determining an
aggregate performance associated with the multiplayer group as a
whole; statistical data fields 658 indicating values associated
with individual game performance parameters associated with the
group or team, which may also be applicable in determining an
aggregate performance associated with the multiplayer group as a
whole and; individual team player points field 660, indicating
individual values which may be applicable in determining individual
members' performance in the multiplayer game relative to other
members of the group and/or other members of other groups/teams.
FIG. 6F illustrates the lottery multiplayer game 662 (of FIG. 6E)
in progress. In particular, the game board 664 shows the icons 666,
668, 670 and 672 are being moved around the board, and includes an
indication 674 that the player "Thomas" has landed on St. James
Avenue. At this stage of play, no team points 676 have been
awarded. FIG. 6G illustrates the same game instance at an advanced
stage, wherein the "Highridge Moguls" have accumulated 70 team
points 682, and various statistics of team play 684 have been
accumulated. For example, Sue has accumulated a total value of 2080
points, Jim a total value of 326 points, Thomas a total value of 95
points, and Maria is in the lead with a total value of 8080 points.
In addition, at this stage of the game, FIG. 6G shows that a
Community Chest card has been drawn 686.
[0063] 7. Processes for Group Lottery Play
[0064] FIG. 7 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a
process 700 for determining which particular player(s) of a
plurality of groups of players will be permitted to go onto a
further round of lottery game play. It should be understood that
the processes described herein may include steps (or elements
thereof) that may not be necessary, and that the illustrated steps
may be performed in any practicable order.
[0065] The process 700 includes establishing 702 a plurality of
groups of lottery game players for a particular lottery game. Next,
at least one winning player is determined 704 for each group of
players. The process also includes permitting each winning player
to advance to a second round of the lottery game 706. A prize may
or may not be awarded to the winning player at this stage.
[0066] In this embodiment, at least one first round of lottery game
play is used to determine a winner (at least one winning player)
for each group or team participating in the at least one round (for
example, based on criteria appropriate to the lottery game and/or
the lottery game theme utilized, such as a total number of points
earned). The winner or qualifier of the group of players for each
group is then permitted to advance, or is advanced, to participate
in at least one additional (a second) round of play. For example,
each winning player of the first round could be notified by email,
telephone, and/or regular mail (depending on the type of
multiplayer lottery game being played) that he or she has qualified
to advance to a second round of game play. The second round of play
may include group play of the same lottery game, or a related
lottery game, or a different lottery game. In addition, qualifying
players may be organized into multiple (new) groups comprised of
winning players from the first round of game play (for example,
players may be organized into groups randomly, by geographical
region, and/or based on some other criteria) for the second round
of play. In addition, one or more additional rounds of lottery game
play may occur (e.g., after a second round), depending on the type
of lottery game. Advancement of lottery players may occur in a
manner similar to how teams advance in a tournament (such as the
NCAA basketball tournament), wherein a winner of a particular round
is paired to compete with another winner of that tournament stage
round. Such pairings may be scheduled to occur simultaneously (for
example, the second round may be a drawing that occurs on Monday
night at 8 pm) or may be staggered (for example, selected pairings
of players are notified that they are scheduled to play on
particular weekday nights chosen from the weekdays occurring from
Jul. 1 to Jul. 15, 2008, after which third round winning players
will be announced and prizes will be awarded).
[0067] In some embodiments, play of the first (or qualifying)
round(s) may differ from play of the second or later or additional
round(s). For instance, at least one player in a qualifying round
may earn a prize (for example, an instant cash prize based on an
in-game event associated with the first round), even if the
particular player does not advance any further in that lottery game
(e.g. into one or more round(s) of lottery game play). However,
prizes in the subsequent round (for example, in which only players
qualifying in the earlier round may participate) may only be given
to one player.
[0068] A plurality of groups of players may be participating in any
given round of lottery game play. In addition, play of the lottery
game may be fully or partially automated, such that game play may
proceed without player interaction, or with only minimal player
interaction. For example, in some configurations, a player may
simply elect to periodically observe his or her progress or status
with respect to the initial round of lottery game play.
[0069] In some embodiments, information about game play (for
example, indications of results, game status, prizes, scores, game
play events, and the like) may be transmitted (or otherwise
indicated) to one or more lottery players of a group (for example,
via email, telephone, wireless PDA, and/or web page).
[0070] The play of the group lottery game may not depend on any
predetermined outcomes. That is, a winning outcome of a group
lottery game may be determined based on events that occur during
game play by players of that lottery game. In addition, play of the
lottery game may be presented in accordance with and/or based on a
desired theme, such as a board game (for example, Monopoly), a
puzzle game (for example, crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and the like),
a sports game (for example, football, basketball, golf, baseball, a
car or horse race), and the like. In an illustrative example, group
play of a lottery game may be provided with a board game theme and
may occur between several individual players/members having formed
a group/team.
[0071] Each player of a plurality of lottery game players may be
associated with a respective (for example, unique) player number or
other identifier. Other embodiments having a plurality of players
(for example, a group or team playing together) may be associated
with a respective (for example, unique) number that identifies that
plurality of players as a group or team (and, optionally, the
particular game and/or instance of the game that they are
playing).
[0072] FIG. 8 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a
process 800 for providing a prize for each lottery player of a
group or team of players that satisfies predetermined prize
criteria. The process includes establishing 802 a plurality of
groups or teams of players. For example, a method may include
receiving lottery entry data from a plurality of lottery players,
and then establishing a plurality of groups based on the lottery
entry data so that each group includes two or more players. After
at least one initial round of lottery game play, the process
determines 804 an aggregate performance value, or overall score,
for each group or team of players (e.g. by determining, for each
individual group, the point value(s) in field 682 and/or in field
684 of FIG. 6G). The example method is further shown to include
determining 806 that at least one of the groups satisfied
predetermined group play prize criteria based on the aggregate
performance values associated with the groups playing the
multiplayer lottery game. The process is further shown to include
providing 808 the prize to the group or groups having been
determined (at 806) to have satisfied the prize criteria. The
aggregate performance value of a group may be based on various
criteria, such as a group score obtained by playing one or more
lottery games, a group satisfying a predetermined condition (such
as the players of a group participating in a minimum number of
lottery games), or a group satisfying a predetermined condition
within a predetermined period of time (for example, a group of
players having achieved a group score greater than one-thousand
points in each of ten group lottery games occurring/played within a
calendar month). Other group play prize criteria may be used. In
addition, group play prize criteria may be posted or otherwise
communicated to lottery players so that the players are aware of
goals that could be achieved as a team.
[0073] In some embodiments, only a specific player of a group or
team may activate a lottery game for or on behalf of the entire
group. In other embodiments, any one player of the group may
activate the group lottery game. In yet other embodiments, more
than one player is required to activate the lottery game.
[0074] A group lottery game may be ongoing (for example, play may
occur every day, or every weekday), and players may elect to
activate their participation in any desired instance of the lottery
game. In one embodiment, activation and/or lottery game play must
take place within a particular time period and/or by a specified
date and/or time. In some embodiments, a purchased lottery ticket
or activation slip may expire after a predetermined period of time
from the time/date of purchase, and/or at a specified date/time.
For example, a group of players may purchase a lottery ticket for a
group lottery game that occurs every weekday, and the group may
activate the group lottery ticket for any weekday they choose
within 30 days of the ticket's initial purchase or the ticket will
expire.
[0075] Group lottery play may take place on the day (and/or in the
session, if multiple sessions are conducted each day) of
activation. In some embodiments, a player (or group or team of
players) may activate a ticket for lottery game play at a future
date.
[0076] As explained above, group lottery game play may occur over
multiple rounds. Not all of the players of a group or team (and,
optionally, no players of the group) may need to actively
participate in play of the lottery game. In some embodiments, at
least one player must be logged into a lottery game system (for
example, via a web site) for play to take place for the
corresponding group of lottery game players.
[0077] Play may be automated according to rules deemed appropriate
for automated play. For example, automated lottery game play of a
lottery board game may be conducted for multiple players based on
default rules (for example, default options may be specified where
decisions otherwise would be required in live or non-automated
play).
[0078] At least one round of multiple rounds of lottery game play
may allow for individual and/or group prizes. Various rules and/or
conditions for determining whether a prize has been won in the
lottery game may be employed. For example, a prize may be awarded
to an individual player based on multiple events in the same or
multiple rounds of a lottery game (for example, in the same round,
a player satisfies a first condition during a first turn, and then
satisfies a second condition during a second turn). Prizes may be
awarded to each member of a group based on an aggregate performance
of the group (for example, a team or group score), and/or on the
group collectively meeting a predetermined condition (or
conditions) (for example, at least two players roll 6's in the same
round). Individual and group prizes may be based on criteria
corresponding to a predetermined period of time (for example, a
player may win a prize for having the highest average (or actual)
score during a designated month).
[0079] Prize conditions may be configured to encourage at least one
lottery player of a group to log in to and/or to interact with a
lottery game system (for example, if a lottery player is logged in
to a lottery game web site when a specified event takes place, that
player wins a prize).
[0080] In some embodiments, a player may be permitted to customize
or configure aspects of group lottery game play.
[0081] In some embodiments, if a winner of a group who advances to
an additional round of play wins the additional round(s), then
every member of the group receives a prize or other benefit.
[0082] 8. Database Examples
[0083] FIG. 9 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Player database 900 that may be utilized by a lottery server 402 or
a lottery operator controller 300. In general, a Lottery Player
database such as that shown in FIG. 9 stores information
corresponding to (or associated with) individual lottery players
and their associated groups.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 9, the Lottery Player database 900
includes a player identifier field 902 for storing unique data
identifying the particular lottery player, a player name field 904,
a player contact information field 906 (for storing contact
information such as player address, email address, phone number and
the like), and player/member group identifier fields 908 to 908-N
for storing unique one or more unique identifier(s) that link the
player to one or more particular groups or teams of (multiple)
players. Thus, a player may belong to one group of players, or may
belong to several groups, e.g. depending on rules, personal
preferences and/or the types of multiplayer lottery games
offered.
[0085] Each record of FIG. 9, depicted as rows 900-1 to 900-N, thus
contains information associated with an individual lottery player
participating in one or more multiplayer lottery games. For
example, row 900-1 contains information associated with Susan Jones
including a player identifier, contact information and data
indicating that she is a member of at least two groups identified
by a player/member group identifier shown in fields 908-1 and
908-N. Data for the other players depicted in the database 900 (for
Thomas Smith, Margret Reed and John Andrews of rows R900-2, R900-3
and R900-N) shows that each of these players is a member of at
least one group (see column 908).
[0086] FIG. 10 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group database 1000 that may be utilized by a lottery server 402 or
a lottery operator controller 300. In general, a lottery Group
database 1000 such as that shown in FIG. 10 stores data associated
with individual groups of lottery players, each individual group
comprising at least two individual players.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 10, the lottery Group database 1000
includes a Group Identifier field 1002 for storing a unique group
identifier that identifies particular lottery groups, a Group Name
field 1004, a Group Leader Player identifier field 1006, a Maximum
Allowable Players/Members field 1008, and a Quantity/Currently
Active Players/Members field 1010 for storing a value indicative of
how many players are presently associated with a particular group.
Thus, for any particular group, the Maximum Allowable
Players/Members field 1008 may store an indication of a limit to
the number of players that may belong to one group of players,
which e.g. may be dependent on the type (or instance) of
multiplayer lottery game that the particular group has signed up to
play.
[0088] Each record of the lottery Group database 1000 of FIG. 10,
depicted as rows 1000-1 to 1000-N, thus contains information
associated with each group participating in at least one type of
multiplayer lottery game. For example, row 1000-1 contains
information associated with group of players nicknamed "The Fab
Fifteen", which is shown to currently include 11 active members. In
addition, the database 1000 of FIG. 10 depicts data for two other
groups, including row R1000-2 for the "Local 2211 Locomotives"
group having 215 members, and row R1000-N for the "Metropolitan
Fanatics" having 10 members, for use by a lottery server to
administer various aspects of multiplayer lottery games.
[0089] FIG. 11 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group Play Games database 1100 that may be utilized by a lottery
server 402 or a lottery operator controller 300. In general, a
lottery Group Play Games database 1100 such as that shown in FIG.
11 stores data that associates groups of lottery players with
particular types (or available instances) of multiplayer lottery
games and the rules corresponding each type of multiplayer lottery
game.
[0090] Referring to FIG. 11, the lottery Group Play Games database
1100 includes a Group Play Game Identifier field 1102 for
identifying a particular type of game (e.g. as defined by one or
more rule(s) associated with the game), a Group Play Game Name
field 1104, a Group Play Game Type field 1106, and Group Play Game
Rules fields 1108 to 1108-N. Thus, for any particular lottery game,
a lottery server can access the Group Play Games database to
determine whether it is a competitive, collaborative, or
combination type of lottery game, and utilize one or more rule(s)
associated with the particular game/game type to administer
instances of the associated lottery game (e.g. to determine one or
more winning individual(s) and/or group(s)).
[0091] Each row of FIG. 11, depicted as rows 1100-1 to 1100-N, thus
contains information associated with each type of multiplayer
lottery game that is offered by a lottery administrator. For
example, row 1100-1 contains information pertinent to the "Mid-Day
Monopolization" lottery game, which is a competitive game governed
by the rules shown in columns 1108 to 1108-N. In addition, the
Group Play Games database 1100 of FIG. 11 depicts data for two
other multiplayer lottery games, the "Match & Win"
collaborative type of lottery game of row R1100-2, and the "Predict
& Win" game, which is a combination competitive and
collaborative type of game having rules shown in fields 1108 to
1108-N of row R1100-N. Thus, the data in each row of FIG. 11 is
utilized by a lottery server, for example, to administer the
various types of multiplayer lottery games offered by a lottery
operator.
[0092] FIG. 12 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group Play Payout database 1200 that may be utilized by a lottery
server 402 or a lottery operator controller 300. In general, the
Group Play Payout database 1200 of FIG. 12 contains payout criteria
and the types of group play lottery game payouts available for
players who meet the payout criteria (e.g. based on one or more
rule(s) associated with a particular game type and/or game
instance).
[0093] Referring to FIG. 12, the Group Play Games Payout database
1200 includes a Group Play Game Identifier field 1202 for storing
unique Group Play Game Identifiers that identify each type of game
that may be played (e.g. offered in a particular lottery
jurisdiction), Group Play Payout Criteria fields 1004 to 1004-N,
and Group Game Payout fields 1006 to 1006-N. Thus, for any
particular type of lottery game, there may be one or more payout
criteria, and one or more group game lottery payouts available to
winning players of any particular group or team of players,
dependent on the satisfaction of the one or more payout criteria
associated with the particular type of lottery game.
[0094] Each row of FIG. 12, depicted as rows 1200-1 to 1200-N, thus
contains group play payout criteria and group game payouts
associated with each type of multiplayer game offered by the
lottery operator. For example, row 1200-1 contains information
associated with the group play game "GPG-001", which is the
"Mid-Day Monopolization" game (see FIG. 11). If a player of that
game meets Criteria 1 shown in column 1204 by completing play with
the greatest total assets of his group, for example, then that
player wins an individual bonus (i.e. secondary) round entry as
shown in column 1206 of row R1200-1. Furthermore, if any player
completes play having acquired all the utilities (see field 1204-N
of R1200-1), then each player of that group wins a five dollar cash
prize (see field 1206-N of R1200-1). The database 1200 of FIG. 12
also depicts data for two other Group Play Games, GPG-002 and
GPG-00N, which correspond to the "Match & Win" and "Predict
& Win" games, respectively, shown in FIG. 11. Similar to the
description of the "Mid-Day Monopolization" game data above, if a
player of a group matches any of the winning criteria shown in
fields 1204 to 1204-N, that player wins the payout(s) shown in the
corresponding fields 1206-1206-N. Thus, a lottery server utilizes
the data in the Group Play Games Payout database 1200 to award
appropriate prizes to players of various multiplayer lottery games
who match the winning criteria (Group play payout criteria).
[0095] FIG. 13 is a tabular representation of an embodiment of a
Group Play Ticket Status database 1300 that may be utilized by a
lottery server 402 or a lottery operator controller 300. In
general, a lottery Group Play Ticket Status database 1300 such as
that shown in FIG. 13 stores data associated with a particular
group of players associated with a particular group play game type
as well an instance of the group play game of the group play game
type and includes data associated with each member/player (and/or
one or more associated member/player lottery entries) of that
group.
[0096] Referring to FIG. 13, the lottery Group Play Ticket Status
database 1300 includes a Group Identifier 1302, a Group Play Game
identifier 1304 and a Group Play Game Instance identifier 1305. In
this example, the Group Identifier is "ABC-276543C" which
corresponds to the group named "The Fab Fifteen" shown in the group
database of FIG. 10. The Group Play ticket Status database also
includes a Member Ticket identifier 1306 field, Member Ticket
Indicia fields 1308 to 1308-N, Member Ticket Result field 1310, and
a Member Ticket Status field 1312. Thus, in the example database
1300 of FIG. 13, a lottery server may utilize the data to determine
the status of any particular lottery ticket for any particular
member of this group.
[0097] For example, the group play game identifier 1304 of
"GPG-002" of FIG. 13 corresponds to a "Match & Win" game, and
the Group Play Game database 1100 depicted in FIG. 11 includes an
entry for "GPG-002" (see row R1100-2) indicating that the "Match
& Win" game is a collaborative type group play game wherein
player numbers are compared/matched to drawn numbers (see Group
Play Game Rule 1 to Rule N (columns 1108 and 1108-N)). In addition,
the Group Play Payout database 1200 of FIG. 12 indicates, in row
R1200-2, the group payout criteria 1 to N (columns 1204 and 1204-N)
that players must satisfy in order to obtain any of the possible
group game payouts 1 to N. In this example for the "Match &
Win" game GPG-002, each player of the group receives a payout of
two dollars if the ratio of total group numbers to matched numbers
is less than 3.5 to 1. And/or if the total quantity of matched
numbers is greater than 40 and the group size is less than 15, the
group game payout N is twenty dollars per group. Thus, the data
contained in the Group Play Games database 1100, in the Group Play
Payout database 1200, and in the Group Play Ticket Status database
1300 can be used together, for example, to determine when and/or if
a player or players has won a prize and/or has advanced to a
secondary round of multiplayer lottery game play.
[0098] Referring again to FIG. 13, each member record shown in rows
1300-1 to 1300-N contains information associated with each member
or player of a particular group (in this example, the group "The
Fab Fifteen"). For example, row 1300-1 contains information
associated with ticket identifier ABC-276543C-011, which is
associated with Susan Jones (see also the Player Database 900 of
FIG. 9). The data in this row indicates that Susan Jones matched 2
of 6 indicia and that her member ticket status is
"pending/unredeemed" to indicate that she has a winning ticket and
has not yet redeemed it. In addition, the database 1300 depicts
data for three additional member tickets, including row R1300-2
which has a status of "closed" to indicate a non-winning entry,
R1300-3 which also has a status of "closed" to indicate a
non-winning entry, and R1300-N which has a status of
"redeemed/closed" to indicate a winning entry for which a prize has
been claimed. It should be understood that in some embodiments of
multiplayer lottery games, a player is required to tender his or
her multiplayer game lottery ticket to a lottery retailer or other
designated agent in order to redeem a winning ticket. In some
embodiments, to be eligible for a prize, a players' lottery ticket
identifier must match data stored in the Group Play Games Payout
database, which includes a record of all lottery tickets valid for
redemption. Such a group play payout database may be populated
immediately following (or concurrent with) a lottery drawing, for
example.
[0099] 9. Example Embodiments
A. Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly
[0100] The following description includes illustrative examples of
some of the systems, methods, and apparatus contemplated by this
disclosure, which are not limiting to any particular embodiment.
References to specific requirements in these examples are not
requirements for all embodiments described in this disclosure.
[0101] Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly is an exciting new variation of
the classic board game that uses an online ticket purchased at
retail for a group play game that plays out on the Web (the
internet). The game play rules are similar to those of an actual
Monopoly game with no pre-determined outcomes. In an
implementation, Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly features two rounds of
daily play, 10 AM-4 PM and 7 PM-9 PM, every Monday through
Friday.
[0102] Each Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly ticket purchased by a
player includes a group activation slip with a group play
activation number on it, and four individual player slips, each
containing a unique player number (for example, see FIG. 5). A
player forms a group or team by choosing three friends/colleagues
and giving each of the group members one of the play slips. The
individual holding the group activation slip is responsible for
activating the game for the whole group. It is contemplated that a
player can use the ticket for any Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly game
within one year of the date of ticket purchase.
[0103] Once a game date has been selected, in accordance with this
illustrative example, the person responsible for activation must do
so prior to 9:15 AM on the selected date of game play. In this
example, group activation must occur prior to any individual group
member logging-on to play. (Some embodiments, of course, do not
require these specific exemplary timing limitations). Upon
activation, the activating group member may configure some of the
basic aspects of game play. For example, he or she can select a
specific date for group play, assign a team name to the group,
upload a group logo, and the like.
[0104] Once the activating group member has logged-in, and the game
has been configured for the group, game play automatically
commences at 10 AM on the selected day of game play. If at that
time the other group members have not logged-in and provided their
access codes, the game simply begins playing (automatically) on
behalf of those players, who may later log-in and check game
status.
[0105] Part 1--The Daytime Round--10 AM-4 PM
[0106] Throughout the day, each group member can follow the scoring
of their group via their home or work computers. Players can also
sign-up to receive e-mails or text messages of updated game scores
throughout the day.
[0107] The daytime tournament offers several different ways to win
cash and prizes on both a group basis and on an individual basis.
For example, the Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly daytime round may
feature various bonuses, including e.g.: [0108] "Free Parking Group
Bonuses", which e.g. allow the entire group to win cash prizes
during designated times of the day. [0109] "Savvy Traveler Bonus".
E.g. a player who manages to consecutively land on all four
Railroad properties in a single trip around the game board
instantly wins a large cash prize. [0110] "Travel & Utilities
Mogul Bonus". E.g. a player who finishes the daytime game having
acquired and retained all Utility and Railroad properties also
receives an instant cash prize. [0111] "Instant-Win Chance and
Community Chest Cards". E.g. from time to time within the daytime
game, certain Chance and Community Chest cards can award instant
cash prizes. [0112] Periodic team performance bonuses for every
member of a group including "Team of the Week", "Team of the
Month", and the like. Such bonuses could be based on predetermined
criteria, such as the number of active or inactive lottery players
in the group, the number of participating lottery players of the
group in a predetermined time period, group and/or individual point
totals and/or the amount of money spent by the group purchasing and
playing multiplayer games within a predetermine time period; and
[0113] Daily performance bonuses for group total houses built,
group total times past "Go", and the like.
[0114] In this particular example, Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly
plays as an actual board game would play. There are no
pre-determined outcomes. The first round (day tournament) of game
play determines a first round winner for each group based on a game
play algorithm and the basic rules of classic Monopoly. Individual
group winners are determined based on their total asset value
including cash and properties at the conclusion of the daytime game
(or at 4:00 PM, whichever is first). Once group winners are
determined, those winners are "promoted" or "advanced" to the
evening (or "big money") round of play. In some embodiments, the
player who is the team winner of the group is able to access the
evening round by utilizing the previously provided player access
codes and/or daytime tournament game results.
[0115] Part 2--The Evening Tournament
[0116] In one embodiment, the second round of play, which may be
referred to as the evening tournament, begins at 7:00 PM and ends
at 9:00 PM. During this round, players are randomly teamed up for
multiple, fast-paced games, which play throughout the evening. At
the end of the two-hour series of games, the individual with the
greatest overall cumulative asset value total wins the top
available (pari-mutuel) prize. In some implementations, as a group
incentive, if your group member wins the grand prize, all members
of the team win individual cash prizes as well.
[0117] Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly uses a pre-established Lottery
Website as an electronic game board enabling players to monitor
scores and view their games as they unfold throughout the day.
[0118] The game allows individuals to name their team, track the
scores of other Weekday Multiplayer Monopoly teams in the area,
receive bonus points for consistent team play and win cash
prizes.
B. Match & Win I Group Fantasy Play
[0119] In an implementation, a Group Fantasy Play lottery game
enables individual lottery players to participate in group games,
such as office pools, in a unique, new and easy way. An online
group lottery ticket configuration and tracking system can be used
by an individual player to assemble groups of friends or colleagues
to play lottery games together, and to monitor group play activity
in an easy fashion. In addition, such an implementation permits
group play to be monitored over the course of several drawings
(and/or over time), and provides a way to monitor payouts and
merchandise awards that accumulate over time based on the group's
overall performance.
[0120] In addition to playing for the big game jackpot, the Group
Fantasy Play game can include an ongoing monthly fantasy prize play
component, In some embodiments, this ongoing play component allows
the "group" to select a specific fantasy prize (or equivalent cash
value) which all group members can qualify to win based on the
group's overall monthly performance relative to other,
similar-sized groups.
[0121] When an individual player registers a group online at the
lottery's Group Fantasy Play website, group members can select
their numbers in advance for each individual drawing, or the system
can select numbers automatically on the players' behalf via a quick
pick option. Once the players' numbers are selected, in one
implementation, the system will store and track the information for
all of the group's entries in a web-based group file. For each
individual lottery game drawing, the group's numbers will be
checked automatically for each individual entry of the group/pool
of entries, with e-mail and/or text-based alerts sent to one, some,
or all group members when any amount is won.
[0122] An individual player who coordinates the lottery purchase
for the group may be deemed the "group administrator" or "team
leader", and in some implementations may receive jackpot alerts
from the lottery reminding him or her e.g. that the jackpot is over
a certain amount, that a lottery drawing is imminent, etc. For
example, a lottery server may generate and transmit a jackpot alert
every time the jackpot reaches or exceeds $100 million dollars. The
group can also use a group-based subscription and/or conditional
element that enables teams to be entered only if and when the
jackpot is over a certain dollar amount. For example, a group might
designate a minimum jackpot amount of $50 million dollars to enable
the lottery administrator to automatically enter the group in that
lottery game instance. The lottery operator may also be able to
incentivize the group administrators by rewarding them with prizes
when the group play levels reach or exceed a certain dollar volume,
and/or play frequency, and the like.
[0123] 11. Rules of Interpretation
[0124] Numerous embodiments have been described, and are presented
for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not
intended to be limiting in any sense. The processes described are
widely applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent
from the disclosure herein. These embodiments are described in
sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice
the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments
may be utilized and that structural, logical, software, electrical
and other changes may be made without departing from the scope of
the present invention. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will
recognize that the present processes may be practiced with various
modifications and alterations. Although particular features may be
described with reference to one or more particular embodiments or
figures that form a part of the present disclosure, and in which
are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments, it should
be understood that such features are not limited to usage in the
one or more particular embodiments or figures with reference to
which they are described. The present disclosure is thus neither a
literal description of all embodiments nor a listing of features
that must be present in all embodiments.
[0125] The terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "embodiments", "the
embodiment", "the embodiments", "an embodiment", "some
embodiments", "an example embodiment", "at least one embodiment",
"one or more embodiments" and "one embodiment" mean "one or more
(but not necessarily all) embodiments" unless expressly specified
otherwise. The terms "including", "comprising" and variations
thereof mean "including but not limited to", unless expressly
specified otherwise.
[0126] The term "consisting of" and variations thereof mean
"including and limited to", unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0127] The enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or
all of the items are mutually exclusive. The enumerated listing of
items does not imply that any or all of the items are collectively
exhaustive of anything, unless expressly specified otherwise. The
enumerated listing of items does not imply that the items are
ordered in any manner according to the order in which they are
enumerated.
[0128] The term "comprising at least one of" followed by a listing
of items does not imply that a component or subcomponent from each
item in the list is required. Rather, it means that one or more of
the items listed may comprise the item specified. For example, if
it is said "wherein A comprises at least one of: a, b and c" it is
meant that (i) A may comprise a, (ii) A may comprise b, (iii) A may
comprise c, (iv) A may comprise a and b, (v) A may comprise a and
c, (vi) A may comprise b and c, or (vii) A may comprise a, b and
c.
[0129] The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more", unless
expressly specified otherwise.
[0130] The term "based on" means "based at least on", unless
expressly specified otherwise.
[0131] The methods described herein (regardless of whether they are
referred to as methods, processes, algorithms, calculations, and
the like) inherently include one or more steps. Therefore, all
references to a "step" or "steps" of such a method have antecedent
basis in the mere recitation of the term `method` or a like term.
Accordingly, any reference in a claim to a `step` or `steps` of a
method is deemed to have sufficient antecedent basis.
[0132] Headings of sections provided in this document and the title
are provided for convenience only, and are not to be taken as
limiting the disclosure in any way.
[0133] Devices that are in communication with each other need not
be in continuous communication with each other, unless expressly
specified otherwise. In addition, devices that are in communication
with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one
or more intermediaries.
[0134] A description of an embodiment with several components in
communication with each other does not imply that all such
components are required, or that each of the disclosed components
must communicate with every other component. On the contrary a
variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide
variety of possible embodiments.
[0135] Further, although process steps, method steps, algorithms or
the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes,
methods and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate
orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be
described in this document does not, in and of itself, indicate a
requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of
processes described herein may be performed in any order that is
practical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously
despite being described or implied as occurring non-simultaneously
(e.g., because one step is described after the other step).
Moreover, the illustration of a process by its depiction in a
drawing does not imply that the illustrated process is exclusive of
other variations and modifications thereto, does not imply that the
illustrated process or any of its steps are necessary to the
invention, and does not imply that the illustrated process is
preferred.
[0136] It will be readily apparent that the various methods and
algorithms described herein may be implemented by, for example,
appropriately programmed general purpose computers and computing
devices. Typically a processor (such as a microprocessor or
controller device) will receive instructions from a memory or like
storage device, and execute those instructions, thereby performing
a process defined by those instructions. Further, programs that
implement such methods and algorithms may be stored and transmitted
using a variety of known media.
[0137] When a single device or article is described herein, it will
be readily apparent that more than one device/article (whether or
not they cooperate) may be used in place of a single
device/article. Similarly, where more than one device or article is
described herein (whether or not they cooperate), it will be
readily apparent that a single device/article may be used in place
of the more than one device or article.
[0138] The functionality and/or the features of a device may be
alternatively embodied by one or more other devices which are not
explicitly described as having such functionality/features. Thus,
other embodiments need not include the device itself.
[0139] The term "computer-readable medium" as used herein refers to
any medium that participates in providing data (such as
instructions and the like) that may be read by a computer, a
processor or a like device. Such a medium may take many forms,
including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media,
and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example,
optical or magnetic disks and other persistent memory. Volatile
media may include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which
typically constitutes the main memory. Transmission media may
include coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the
wires or other pathways that comprise a system bus coupled to the
processor. Communications may occur via acoustic waves, light waves
and electromagnetic emissions, such as those generated during radio
frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms
of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a
flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium,
a CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape,
any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an
EPROM, a FLASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a
carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can
read.
[0140] Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in
carrying sequences of instructions to a processor. For example,
sequences of instruction may be delivered from RAM to a processor,
may be carried over a wireless transmission medium, and/or may be
formatted according to numerous formats, standards or protocols,
such as Transmission Control Protocol, Internet Protocol (TCP/IP),
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, TDMA, CDMA, Wi-MAX and 3G.
[0141] Where databases are described, it will be understood by one
of ordinary skill in the art that alternative database structures
to those described may be readily employed, and that other memory
structures besides databases may be readily employed. Any schematic
illustrations and accompanying descriptions of any sample databases
presented herein are illustrative arrangements for stored
representations of information. Any number of other arrangements
may be employed besides those suggested by the tables shown.
Similarly, any 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. Further, despite any
depiction of the databases as tables, other formats (including
relational databases, object-based models and/or distributed
databases) could be used to store and manipulate the data types
described herein. Likewise, object methods or behaviors of a
database can be used to implement the processes of the present
invention. In addition, the databases may, in a known manner, be
stored locally or remotely from a device that accesses data in such
a database.
[0142] It should also be understood that, to the extent that any
term recited in the claims is referred to elsewhere in this
document in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that is done
for the sake of clarity only, and it is not intended that any such
term be so restricted, by implication or otherwise, to that single
meaning. Finally, unless a claim element is defined by reciting the
word "means" and a function without reciting any structure, it is
not intended that the scope of any claim element be interpreted
based on the application of 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112, sixth
paragraph.
[0143] The systems and processes described herein are exemplary
embodiments, and those skilled in the art will note that various
substitutions and modifications may be made to those embodiments
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
* * * * *