U.S. patent application number 13/788079 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-11 for systems and methods for playing a game of chance including a plurality of patterns.
This patent application is currently assigned to GAMING ARTS LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is GAMING ARTS LLC. Invention is credited to Moises Navarrete.
Application Number | 20140256393 13/788079 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51488433 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140256393 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Navarrete; Moises |
September 11, 2014 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PLAYING A GAME OF CHANCE INCLUDING A
PLURALITY OF PATTERNS
Abstract
Systems and methods enable a player to play a game of chance.
The methods include providing a player card to be used with the
game, wherein the player card includes a predetermined number of
spaces for displaying player indicia. A processor enables a player
to select one of a plurality of available patterns for the player
card, wherein a plurality of the spaces is included within each of
the available patterns. The processor also enables the player to
select a plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern,
wherein each player indicia is displayed within one of the spaces
included within the selected pattern. A plurality of house indicia
is randomly selected. The processor determines whether the house
indicia matches the selected player indicia for the selected
pattern, and determines a payout based upon the determination
whether the house indicia matches the selected player indicia for
the selected pattern.
Inventors: |
Navarrete; Moises; (Las
Vegas, NV) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GAMING ARTS LLC |
Las Vegas |
NV |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GAMING ARTS LLC
Las Vegas
NV
|
Family ID: |
51488433 |
Appl. No.: |
13/788079 |
Filed: |
March 7, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/17 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3286 20130101;
A63F 3/0645 20130101; G07F 17/326 20130101; A63F 3/062
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/17 |
International
Class: |
A63F 3/06 20060101
A63F003/06 |
Claims
1. A method of playing a game of chance, said method comprising:
providing a player card to be used with the game, wherein the
player card includes a predetermined number of spaces for
displaying player indicia; enabling, by a processor, a player to
select one of a plurality of available patterns for the player
card, wherein a plurality of the spaces is included within each of
the available patterns; enabling, by the processor, the player to
select a plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern,
wherein each player indicia of the selected plurality of player
indicia is displayed within one of the plurality of spaces included
within the selected pattern; randomly selecting a plurality of
house indicia; determining, by the processor, whether the plurality
of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia
for the selected pattern; and determining, by the processor, a
payout based upon the determination whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the game continues after a
determination that the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the game continues until a
predetermined number of house indicia is selected.
4. The method of claim 2, wherein a plurality of players are
enabled to play the game, each player having at least one player
card with a pattern to be matched by the selected house indicia,
and wherein the game continues until each pattern of each player
card is matched by the selected house indicia.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein randomly selecting a plurality of
house indicia comprises selecting a first plurality of house
indicia, and wherein determining whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern comprises determining whether the first plurality
of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia
for the selected pattern.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein additional house indicia are
selected after the first plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the processor determines whether the first
plurality of house indicia and the additional house indicia match
the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern
after each additional house indicia is selected.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the payout starts at a first
value, and the payout is reduced each time an additional house
indicia is selected.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein additional house indicia are
selected until a second plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the game ends when the second plurality of
house indicia have been selected.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein a server initially selects a
first plurality of player indicia for use with the player card, and
wherein the plurality of player indicia selected by the player is a
second plurality of player indicia that replaces at least a portion
of the first plurality of player indicia.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein a server initially selects each
player indicia to be used with the player card, and wherein the
plurality of player indicia selected by the player replaces the
server selected player indicia included within the selected
pattern.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of player indicia
included within the selected pattern is a first plurality of player
indicia and a second plurality of player indicia is included within
the first plurality of player indicia, and wherein the processor
determines a payout based on a determination that the plurality of
house indicia matches the second plurality of player indicia.
12. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating the player
card such that the plurality of spaces within the selected pattern
are the only spaces of the player card in which player indicia are
displayed.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising displaying at least
one filler object within each of the spaces of the player card that
are not included within the selected pattern.
14. The method of claim 1, wherein enabling, by a processor, a
player to select one of a plurality of available patterns for the
player card includes enabling the player to create a pattern to be
included in the plurality of available patterns.
15. The method of claim 1, wherein the game ends after a
determination that the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern.
16. The method of claim 1, wherein the processor determines at
least a portion of the payout to include a progressive prize.
17. The method of claim 1, wherein the game is played on a player
device that includes a random number generator for randomly
selecting the plurality of house indicia, and wherein the player
does not compete against other players for the payout.
18. A method of playing a game of bingo, said method comprising:
providing a player card to be used with the game, wherein the
player card includes a predetermined number of spaces for
displaying indicia; displaying, on an electronic player device, a
plurality of available patterns to be used with the player card,
wherein a plurality of the spaces is included within each of the
available patterns; enabling a player to select one of the
available patterns for the player card using the electronic player
device; displaying a plurality of player indicia on the electronic
player device; enabling the player to select the plurality of
player indicia for the selected pattern using the electronic player
device, wherein each player indicia of the selected plurality of
player indicia is displayed on the electronic player device within
one of the spaces included within the selected pattern; randomly
selecting a plurality of house indicia; determining, by the
processor, whether the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern; and
determining, by the processor, a payout based upon the
determination whether the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern.
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising receiving, by the
processor, data representative of the selected pattern and the
selected plurality of player indicia from the electronic player
device.
20. The method of claim 18, further comprising authenticating the
electronic player device by the processor.
21. The method of claim 18, wherein the game continues after a
determination that the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein the game continues until a
predetermined number of house indicia is selected.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein a plurality of players are
enabled to play the game, each player having at least one player
card with a pattern to be matched by the selected house indicia,
and wherein the game continues until each pattern of each player
card is matched by the selected house indicia.
24. The method of claim 18, wherein randomly selecting a plurality
of house indicia comprises selecting a first plurality of house
indicia, and wherein determining whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern comprises determining whether the first plurality
of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia
for the selected pattern.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein additional house indicia are
selected after the first plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the processor determines whether the first
plurality of house indicia and the additional house indicia match
the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern
after each additional house indicia is selected.
26. The method of claim 24, wherein the payout starts at a first
value, and the payout is reduced each time an additional house
indicia is selected.
27. The method of claim 24, wherein additional house indicia are
selected until a second plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the game ends when the second plurality of
house indicia have been selected.
28. The method of claim 18, wherein a server initially selects a
first plurality of player indicia for use with the player card, and
wherein the plurality of player indicia selected by the player is a
second plurality of player indicia that replaces at least a portion
of the first plurality of player indicia.
29. The method of claim 18, wherein a server initially selects each
player indicia to be used with the player card, and wherein the
plurality of player indicia selected by the player replaces the
server selected player indicia included within the selected
pattern.
30. The method of claim 18, further comprising: issuing a ticket
with the player card having the selected pattern and the selected
plurality of player indicia; and transmitting the ticket to the
electronic player device.
31. A method of playing a game of bingo, said method comprising:
displaying, on a terminal, a player card to be used with the game,
wherein the player card includes a predetermined number of spaces
for displaying indicia; identifying, by a processor, a plurality of
available patterns to be used with the player card, wherein a
plurality of the spaces is included within each of the available
patterns; displaying the plurality of available patterns on the
terminal; enabling a player to select one of the available patterns
for the player card using the terminal; displaying a plurality of
player indicia on the terminal; enabling the player to select the
plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern, wherein each
player indicia of the selected plurality of player indicia is
displayed within one of the plurality of spaces included within the
selected pattern; randomly selecting a plurality of house indicia;
determining, by the processor, whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern; and determining, by the processor, a payout based
upon the determination whether the plurality of house indicia
matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected
pattern.
32. The method of claim 31, wherein the game continues after a
determination that the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern.
33. The method of claim 32, wherein the game continues until a
predetermined number of house indicia is selected.
34. The method of claim 32, wherein a plurality of players are
enabled to play the game, each player having at least one player
card with a pattern to be matched by the selected house indicia,
and wherein the game continues until each pattern of each player
card is matched by the selected house indicia.
35. The method of claim 31, wherein randomly selecting a plurality
of house indicia comprises selecting a first plurality of house
indicia, and wherein determining whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern comprises determining whether the first plurality
of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia
for the selected pattern.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein additional house indicia are
selected after the first plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the processor determines whether the first
plurality of house indicia and the additional house indicia match
the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern
after each additional house indicia is selected.
37. The method of claim 36, wherein the payout starts at a first
value, and the payout is reduced each time an additional house
indicia is selected.
38. The method of claim 36, wherein additional house indicia are
selected until a second plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the game ends when the second plurality of
house indicia have been selected.
39. The method of claim 31, wherein a server initially selects a
first plurality of player indicia for use with the player card, and
wherein the plurality of player indicia selected by the player is a
second plurality of player indicia that replaces at least a portion
of the first plurality of player indicia.
40. The method of claim 31, wherein a server initially selects each
player indicia to be used with the player card, and wherein the
plurality of player indicia selected by the player replaces the
server selected player indicia included within the selected
pattern.
41. A method of playing a game of bingo, said method comprising:
scanning, using a scanning device, a physical player card that
includes a predetermined number of spaces for displaying indicia,
wherein the player card includes at least one pattern marking
indicative of a player selected pattern shaped to enclose at least
a plurality of the spaces, and at least one indicia marking
indicative of at least one player indicia selected by the player;
identifying, using a processor, a selected pattern based on the at
least one pattern marking; identifying, using the processor, a
selected plurality of player indicia based on the at least one
indicia marking; randomly selecting a plurality of house indicia;
determining, by the processor, whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern; and determining, by the processor, a payout based
upon the determination whether the plurality of house indicia
matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected
pattern.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein the game continues after a
determination that the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein the game continues until a
predetermined number of house indicia is selected.
44. The method of claim 42, wherein a plurality of players are
enabled to play the game, each player having at least one player
card with a pattern to be matched by the selected house indicia,
and wherein the game continues until each pattern of each player
card is matched by the selected house indicia.
45. The method of claim 41, wherein randomly selecting a plurality
of house indicia comprises selecting a first plurality of house
indicia, and wherein determining whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern comprises determining whether the first plurality
of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia
for the selected pattern.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein additional house indicia are
selected after the first plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the processor determines whether the first
plurality of house indicia and the additional house indicia match
the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern
after each additional house indicia is selected.
47. The method of claim 46, wherein the payout starts at a first
value, and the payout is reduced each time an additional house
indicia is selected.
48. The method of claim 46, wherein additional house indicia are
selected until a second plurality of house indicia have been
selected, and wherein the game ends when the second plurality of
house indicia have been selected.
49. The method of claim 41, wherein a server initially selects a
first plurality of player indicia for use with the player card, and
wherein the plurality of player indicia selected by the player is a
second plurality of player indicia that replaces at least a portion
of the first plurality of player indicia.
50. The method of claim 41, wherein a server initially selects each
player indicia to be used with the player card, and wherein the
plurality of player indicia selected by the player replaces the
server selected player indicia included within the selected
pattern.
51. A system comprising: a randomization device configured to
randomly select house indicia; a selection device configured to:
receive a player card to be used with a game of chance, wherein the
player card includes a predetermined number of spaces for
displaying indicia; receive a plurality of available patterns to be
used with the player card, wherein a plurality of the spaces is
included within each of the available patterns; enable a player to
select one of the available patterns for the player card; and
enable the player to select a plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern, wherein each player indicia of the selected
plurality of player indicia is displayed within one of the
plurality of spaces included within the selected pattern; and a
server coupled to said randomization device and to said selection
device, said server comprising a processor programmed to: select a
plurality of house indicia using said randomization device;
determine whether the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern; and
determine a payout based upon the determination whether the
plurality of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player
indicia for the selected pattern.
52. The system of claim 51, wherein said server is configured to
continue the game after a determination that the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern.
53. The system of claim 52, wherein said server is configured to
continue the game until a predetermined number of house indicia is
selected.
54. The system of claim 52, wherein a plurality of players are
enabled to play the game, each player having at least one player
card with a pattern to be matched by the selected house indicia,
and wherein said server is configured to continue the game until
each pattern of each player card is matched by the selected house
indicia.
55. The system of claim 51, wherein said server is configured to:
select a plurality of house indicia by selecting a first plurality
of house indicia; and determine whether the plurality of house
indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern by determining whether the first plurality of
house indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia for
the selected pattern.
56. The system of claim 55, wherein said server is configured to:
select additional house indicia after the first plurality of house
indicia have been selected; and determine whether the first
plurality of house indicia and the additional house indicia match
the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern
after each additional house indicia is selected.
57. The system of claim 56, wherein said server is configured to:
start the payout at a first value; and reduce the payout each time
an additional house indicia is selected.
58. The system of claim 56, wherein said server is configured to
select additional house indicia until a second plurality of house
indicia have been selected, and to end the game when the second
plurality of house indicia have been selected.
59. The system of claim 51, wherein said server initially selects a
first plurality of player indicia for use with the player card, and
wherein the plurality of player indicia selected by the player is a
second plurality of player indicia that replaces at least a portion
of the first plurality of player indicia.
60. The system of claim 51, wherein said server initially selects
each player indicia to be used with the player card, and wherein
the plurality of player indicia selected by the player replaces the
server selected player indicia included within the selected
pattern.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and
methods for playing bingo and other games of chance.
[0002] Bingo is a game of chance played with randomly drawn
articles typically having numbers or other indicia that players
match against corresponding indicia on a player card or ticket.
Traditional bingo games have numbers pre-arranged in a table, grid,
matrix, or array, with winners determined by making a predetermined
winning pattern with called numbers. The numbers may be printed on
paper or cardstock, or electronically represented on a display with
the subset of numbers for each play generally referred to as cards
or tickets. When a single paper or other playing piece includes
multiple cards, each may be referred to as a card face with the
group of card faces referred to as a card or ticket. Players try to
obtain the winning pattern or number of matches on their faces by
covering or marking numbers on their cards as numbers are randomly
selected or preselected from a predetermined group of numbers, such
as 75 or 90 numbers, for example. Once a winning pattern is
achieved or a predetermined number of calls are made, the game
ends.
[0003] In contrast to keno, lotto, and related odds-based numbers
games, regulations for bingo and related games generally include
some requirement that the game must be played to conclusion.
Although requirements may vary considerably by jurisdiction, this
requirement is generally interpreted as requiring one or more
winners. As such, if there are no winners in the prescribed number
of calls, players continue to play for a consolation prize.
Consolation prizes may be a fixed amount or a pari-mutuel prize
based on the total or aggregate number and price of cards or
tickets purchased by all players for that game. Payment of
consolation prizes may be a significant operating expense for bingo
gaming establishments. In addition, because of the uncertainty in
the number of calls that may be required for a consolation prize
winner, the use of consolation prizes to meet the requirement that
the game be played to conclusion may reduce the total number of
games that can be played in a given time period and thereby
adversely affect scheduling of games and overall revenue for the
operator.
[0004] Alternative methods of play have been developed to increase
participation by creating excitement. Since its invention in 1934,
modern bingo has evolved into multiple variations, with each
jurisdiction's gambling laws regulating how the game is played.
There are also nearly unlimited winning criteria that may be
specified for playing a particular game. Some patterns only require
one number to be matched whereas cover-all games require an entire
card to be matched or covered to award the jackpot. Other games may
award prizes to players for matching no numbers or achieving none
of the specified patterns.
[0005] There are many variations of bingo games and even bingo
cards. For example, double-action cards have two numbers in each
square. However, the most common bingo cards are flat pieces of
cardboard or paper that contain 25 squares arranged in five
vertical columns and five horizontal rows. More recently, computer
generated visual representations of bingo cards and related game
cards or tickets may be presented on a screen or display. Each
space in the grid contains a single number, except there may be one
or more "Free" spaces, which typically include at least the center
space. The "Free" spaces are considered covered or filled from the
beginning of the game. For games played utilizing 75 numbers or
another multiple of 5 numbers, the letters B, I, N, G, and O may be
pre-printed above the five vertical columns with one letter
appearing above each column to assist players in more quickly
locating a called number on their card(s). Players often play
multiple cards for each game. For 75 number games, the numbers
printed on the card are commonly arranged as follows: 1 to 15 in
the B column, 16 to 30 in the I column, 31 to 45 in the N column,
46 to 60 in the G column, and 61 to 75 in the O column. Depending
on how many numbers are in each column for a particular game, the
numbers are generally randomly selected from the number ranges
above for each column. For example, a standard bingo game may
include 25 spaces with 5 randomly selected numbers between 1 and 15
assigned to the B column, and so on. However, one variation
randomly assigns the numbers to the available columns. In another
variation, sometimes referred to as "U-Pic'Em" bingo, players may
be issued three cards each having 1/3 of the total available
numbers with all numbers that may be called or drawn included.
Players then identify or mark which numbers they wish to play and
then cover or mark the selected numbers when a corresponding number
is called or drawn. Rather than a predetermined pattern, a
predetermined number (such as 5 or 10) of matches to the called
numbers determines a winning card.
[0006] With the expansion of Tribal gaming across the U.S., there
are numerous versions of bingo that emulate the fast action of
casino-like table games, but utilize the principals of bingo where
players mark and monitor grid or matrix cards. Casino games like
Roulette, Acey Duecy, and Money Wheel have bingo counterparts,
which are permitted to be played under bingo licenses in many parts
of the country. Similarly, U Pic'Em-style bingo is played in many
markets, including in Native American bingo halls across the United
States, and has been federally recognized as Class II gaming
pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act codified at 25 U.S.C.
.sctn.2703. It is similar to keno in that players are seeking to
match a specific set of numbers rather than a set of numbers that
form a specific pattern on a bingo card. In keno, 20 numbers are
drawn from a pool of 80 numbers. Players select 1 to 20 numbers and
prizes are awarded based on the probabilities of matching a
specific set or sets of numbers. Keno is strictly odds-based with a
known theoretical chance to win. In contrast, U-Pic'Em bingo games
generally have a pool of 75 or 90 available numbers or indicia
rather than the 80 used in keno, and the number of indicia drawn is
generally 24 rather than the 20 numbers drawn in keno. Unlike keno,
a U-Pic'Em game may be combined or offered as a bonus in
combination with a more traditional bingo game having a winning
criterion associated with a pattern formed on a player card or
ticket by the matched numbers in addition to the number of matched
indicia, and played to conclusion, i.e. until at least one player
wins a prize.
[0007] In some variants of U-Pic'em Bingo, a specific set of
numbers (usually three or five) are not chosen by the player, but
instead are pre-printed at the top of a bingo card. In other
variations, players choose their numbers (usually six to eight) and
write them down on two-part paper, depositing one part in a locked
box and keeping the other part to track their numbers. This method
generally requires manual verification and is rather time consuming
and labor intensive for the operators. There may also be variations
on the way(s) to win with the numbers. For example, one common
method is if the first n numbers (usually in the three to five
number variant) drawn during the course of the bingo game match the
numbers a player has, the player wins a bonus prize that is above
and beyond the prize for completing the winning bingo pattern(s).
Other variations (more commonly found in the six to eight number
variant) include awarding a prize to the player who matches the
greatest number of indicia, or to all players who match specific
numbers of indicia. The latter variant does not require the indicia
be called as part of a session-based bingo game. Rather, the latter
variant is odds-based similar to keno, and facilitates play in
locations that may not offer bingo, as well as those facilities
that have more traditional bingo games.
[0008] Some jurisdictions do not recognize odds-based games as
being bingo, though many do. However, odds-based games may still be
classified as bingo or Class II gaming when players are competing
against one another for a prize, or where a winner is determined
and a prize awarded for every game as previously described. In
addition to prize awards based on the number of player indicia
matching called indicia (also referred to as house or game
indicia), various patterns may be used to determine a winner for a
particular game. In addition to a straight horizontal, vertical, or
diagonal line, many bingo halls consider other patterns as a valid
bingo, usually in special games. For example, a 2.times.2 square in
the upper right-hand corner would be considered a "postage stamp."
Another common special game requires players to cover each of the
four corner squares. Games may also require two lines (double) or
three lines (triple) to win. Combination games may have multiple
bingos and/or winners based on different winning criteria, such as
matching numbers or patterns of numbers. For example, the players
initially play to achieve a first winning pattern, such as a single
line, to determine a first winner and then continue playing with
the same cards and numbers to achieve a second winning pattern,
such as a double line or coverall for another prize.
[0009] The called numbers may be randomly selected using various
methods for any of the variations of the game. With the expansion
of computer technology, electronic random number generators (RNG)
are now commonplace in many jurisdictions. However, some
jurisdictions require physical draws that may utilize a randomly
shuffled deck of bingo or other calling cards, a mechanical ball
blower that mixes balls with blown air, or a cage that is turned to
mix small wooden balls, for example. All methods essentially
generate a sequence and/or group of random numbers for players to
match to their card(s) or ticket(s).
[0010] In another version of play sometimes referred to as "Quick
Shot," numbers are pre-drawn and players purchase sealed cards that
are then matched against the pre-drawn numbers. If a specified
pattern is achieved, then the player usually wins a prize according
to a prize table. This is an odds-based, keno-like game that may be
found on various Class II gaming devices manufactured by companies
such as GameTech, Video King, Lightning Games, and others. Some
versions are played until a player achieves a top level prize, and
then new numbers are drawn and the game begins anew. This type of
bingo may be played over days, weeks, or months depending on the
difficulty of achieving a top level prize.
[0011] In "Bonanza Bingo" played with 75 numbers, typically 45
numbers are pre-drawn at the beginning of a bingo session. Players
purchase sealed cards that are then matched against the pre-drawn
numbers. At a designated time, the caller asks if anyone has a
winning pattern or bingo. If no winners are identified, the caller
then draws one more ball. This game is commonly played as a
"progressive" game, where the jackpot increases as more cards are
sold. If no one has achieved bingo after the single ball has been
drawn, players then hold their cards for the next session of bingo,
which may take place the following day or following week, for
example. During each session thereafter, a single ball is drawn and
players may continue to purchase additional sealed cards until
someone achieves a cover-all.
[0012] Many bingo gaming establishments have a call board or
flashboard with called numbers illuminated or displayed for the
players to see previously called numbers. In U.S. style bingo using
75 numbers, the flashboard is often arranged in 5 rows of 15
columns with the numbers arranged in sequence from left to right.
In a version referred to as "Horse Racing Bingo," up to 15 players
are randomly issued a number from 1 to 15 corresponding to the top
row of numbers on the flashboard. Numbers are then drawn and the
first person to match all five numbers in their assigned column
wins. This is a fast paced and exciting form of bingo typically
played in fraternal organizations.
[0013] As previously described, various types of bingo games may
use different types of progressive prizes. The first involves
increasing a prize amount based on contributing a portion (either
fixed amount or percentage) of each ticket sold to the progressive
prize pool. Some progressive prize pools are increased per unit of
time, such as a day, week, etc. Progressive prize pools may be
grouped in different ways, including by winning pattern, days of
the week, bingo session (time of day), etc. Some progressive prize
games may change the contribution amount after the game starts
and/or stop contributions once the prize reaches a certain value.
Progressive prize pools may also be aggregated across multiple
gaming locations.
[0014] In virtually all keno, lottery, bingo, and slot machines,
the progressive portion of the prize is split when there are
multiple winners. The progressive portion is the current amount of
the progressive meter less the amount of the base jackpot. The
progressive portion grows by allocating a portion of every wager to
the progressive meter. Thus, when there are multiple winners, the
progressive amount is generally split evenly among all winners. For
example, a game starts with a base jackpot of $10,000. As players
make wagers, a portion of each wager is added to the progressive
meter causing it to grow to $14,000. If two people were to win the
progressive jackpot during the same game, they would each be paid
the base amount of $10,000 in addition to half of the progressive
amount of $4,000 for a total prize award of $12,000. Additionally,
in many instances the progressive prize is paid on an aggregate
basis and would be split evenly among the winners for $7,000 each
in this example.
[0015] The various styles of bingo and related games generally have
some common features. For example, a particular game (i.e. winning
criterion) ends when the first winner satisfies the winning
criterion. In combined games, play may continue after a first
winner has been identified, but the winning criterion and/or prize
are changed for a second or subsequent winner. For example, a group
of player selected numbers is matched first, and the game play is
continued to match one or more patterns, such as a single line
followed by double line, or a double line followed by a coverall.
Similarly, because many jurisdictions require bingo and related
games to be played to conclusion (in contrast to keno or lotto type
games where it is acceptable to not have a winner), if there is no
winner matching the winning criterion within the required number of
calls, the winning criterion and/or prize may be changed for a
consolation game that is played until a winner is determined, for
example. Another common feature of the various games, including
keno, lotto, and progressive style games, is that multiple winners
generally split or share the prize.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0016] In one embodiment, a method of playing a game of chance
includes providing a player card to be used with a game of chance,
wherein the player card includes a predetermined number of spaces
for displaying indicia. A plurality of available patterns is
identified, by a processor, to be used with the player card,
wherein each of the available patterns is shaped to enclose at
least a plurality of the spaces. A player is enabled to select one
of the available patterns for the player card and to select a
plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern, wherein the
selected plurality of player indicia is displayed within at least a
portion of the spaces enclosed by the selected pattern. A plurality
of house indicia is randomly selected. The processor determines
whether the plurality of house indicia matches the selected
plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern, and
determines a payout based upon the determination whether the
plurality of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player
indicia for the selected pattern.
[0017] In another embodiment, a method of playing a game of bingo
includes providing a player card to be used with a game of bingo,
wherein the player card includes a predetermined number of spaces
for displaying indicia. A plurality of available patterns to be
used with the player card is displayed on an electronic player
device, wherein a plurality of the spaces is included within each
of the available patterns. A plurality of player indicia is
displayed on the electronic player device, and the player is
enabled to select the plurality of player indicia for the selected
pattern using the electronic player device, wherein each player
indicia of the selected plurality of player indicia is displayed on
the electronic player device within one of the spaces included
within the selected pattern. A plurality of house indicia is
randomly selected. The processor determines whether the plurality
of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player indicia
for the selected pattern, and determines a payout based upon the
determination whether the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern.
[0018] In yet another embodiment, a method of playing a game of
bingo includes displaying, on a terminal, a player card to be used
with a game of bingo, wherein the player card includes a
predetermined number of spaces for displaying indicia. A processor
identifies a plurality of available patterns to be used with the
player card, wherein a plurality of the spaces is included within
each of the available patterns. The plurality of available patterns
is displayed on the terminal, and a player is enabled to select one
of the available patterns for the player card using the terminal. A
plurality of player indicia is displayed on the terminal, and the
player is enabled to select the plurality of player indicia for the
selected pattern, wherein each player indicia of the selected
plurality of player indicia is displayed within one of the
plurality of spaces included within the selected pattern. A
plurality of house indicia is randomly selected. The processor
determines whether the plurality of house indicia matches the
selected plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern, and
determines a payout based upon the determination whether the
plurality of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player
indicia for the selected pattern.
[0019] In still another embodiment, a method of playing a game of
bingo includes scanning, using a scanning device, a physical player
card that includes a predetermined number of spaces for displaying
indicia. The player card includes at least one pattern marking
indicative of a player selected pattern shaped to enclose at least
a plurality of the spaces, and at least one indicia marking
indicative of at least one player indicia selected by the player. A
processor identifies a selected pattern based on the at least one
pattern marking and identifies a selected plurality of player
indicia based on the at least one indicia marking. A plurality of
house indicia is randomly selected. The processor determines
whether the plurality of house indicia matches the selected
plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern, and
determines a payout based upon the determination whether the
plurality of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player
indicia for the selected pattern.
[0020] In another embodiment, a system includes a randomization
device configured to randomly select house indicia. The system also
includes a selection device configured to receive a player card to
be used with a game of chance, wherein the player card includes a
predetermined number of spaces for displaying indicia, and to
receive a plurality of available patterns to be used with the
player card, wherein a plurality of the spaces is included within
each of the available patterns. The selection device also is
configured to enable a player to select one of the available
patterns for the player card, and to enable the player to select a
plurality of player indicia for the selected pattern, wherein each
player indicia of the selected plurality of player indicia is
displayed within one of the plurality of spaces included within the
selected pattern. The system also includes a server coupled to the
randomization device and to the selection device. The server
includes a processor programmed to select a plurality of house
indicia using the randomization device, determine whether the
plurality of house indicia matches the selected plurality of player
indicia for the selected pattern, and determine a payout based upon
the determination whether the plurality of house indicia matches
the selected plurality of player indicia for the selected
pattern.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for playing a game of
chance.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a computing device that may be
used with the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 3A illustrates a player card having a first selected
winning pattern that may be used with the system shown in FIG.
1.
[0024] FIG. 3B illustrates a player card having a second selected
winning pattern that may be used with the system shown in FIG.
1.
[0025] FIG. 3C illustrates a player card having a third selected
winning pattern that may be used with the system shown in FIG.
1.
[0026] FIG. 3D illustrates a player card having a fourth selected
winning pattern that may be used with the system shown in FIG.
1.
[0027] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a method of playing a game of
chance that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method of issuing a player
card that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of another method of issuing a
player card that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of another method of issuing a
player card that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method of selecting player
indicia and/or patterns for an electronic player card that may be
used with the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 9 illustrates a pay table that may be used with the
system shown in FIG. 1.
[0033] FIG. 10 illustrates another pay table that may be used with
the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0034] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another pay table that may be used
with the system shown in FIG. 1.
[0035] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a bingo card with a selected
pattern of numbers printed thereon.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] Systems and methods for playing a game of chance, which may
be played as a standalone game of chance or in combination with
another game of chance are described herein. The game of chance
includes one or more winning criteria associated with matching
indicia, such as objects, graphics, symbols, numbers, letters, or
the like, on a player card to indicia determined or selected by
operator calls or an equivalent selection of house indicia
identified by the gaming establishment. The house indicia may be
selected and displayed individually and/or selected as a group
during play and/or pre-selected prior to play. The systems and
methods enable a player to select a winning pattern and to select
one or more indicia to be associated with the selected pattern.
[0037] In one embodiment, player cards are presented to each player
for use in the game. Each player selects a winning pattern to be
used with one or more player cards and one or more player indicia
to be used with the selected pattern. Various embodiments include
player tickets and/or number selection devices with available
numbers depicted as a bingo flashboard having five rows with each
row associated with a designated bingo letter. In one embodiment,
players may use a wireless mobile device, such as a cell phone or
hand-held tablet computing device, to communicate selected patterns
and indicia to a gaming server. In another embodiment, the numbers
and patterns are implemented on a machine readable paper ticket or
player card. For each game, a predetermined number of house indicia
are selected from a pool of available indicia by the server or by
another device or system. In one embodiment, players are awarded a
prize based on a number of house indicia that were drawn before the
indicia associated with the player's selected pattern were matched.
House indicia may be generated manually by hand, ball cage, ball
blower, playing cards, roulette wheel, or electronically called or
generated by a random number generator or the like.
[0038] Gaming strategies according to the present disclosure may be
applied to existing or future variations of bingo and similar games
of chance. Various embodiments may be used with any winning
pattern, combination, or number selections and the like. Cards or
tickets may include paper, card stock, fixed, portable, or handheld
electronic displays, and the like. Embodiments according to the
present disclosure may be applied to fixed odds payouts,
pari-mutuel, progressive, or any combination thereof.
[0039] Various embodiments of bingo and related games of chance may
be played with at least one player that is playing one or more
player cards or selection of indicia. Multi-player implementations
may be required in some jurisdictions. For example, Class II gaming
may require the game to be played with at least two players. The
bingo and related games of chance according to the present
disclosure may also be used in various computer or machine based
implementations.
[0040] As those of ordinary skill in the art will understand,
various features of the embodiments illustrated and described with
reference to any one of the figures may be combined with features
illustrated in one or more other figures to produce embodiments
that may not be explicitly illustrated or described in detail. The
combinations of features illustrated provide representative
embodiments for typical gaming applications for electronic bingo
and related games. However, various combinations and modifications
of the features consistent with the teachings of the present
disclosure may be desired for particular applications or
implementations. The representative embodiments used in the
illustrations relate generally to a game of chance, such as bingo
or a related game, with multiple prizes and/or winners. Those of
ordinary skill in the art may recognize similar games or other
applications or implementations not specifically described, but
that are within the scope of the claims.
[0041] The descriptions of various styles of bingo and related
gaming are purely illustrative. The systems and methods for gaming
according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are
generally independent of the size of a pool of indicia and are not
limited to the 75 or 90 indicia, elements, balls, or numbers used
in traditional bingo as played in the United States or Europe as
described with respect to various representative embodiments. In
addition, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
any reference to balls or ball calls apply equally to games where
other indicia such as letters, words, names, symbols,
constellations, figures, patterns, and the like may be used in
place of, or in combination with numbers.
[0042] In general, the bingo strategies described with reference to
various embodiments of the present disclosure are independent of
the particular manner or strategy for selecting, determining,
sequencing, calling, etc. of the house or game indicia. As such,
the winning combination or pattern, matched selection, number of
matches, etc. may generally be obtained by any predetermined or
random selection of indicia using manual, electrical, mechanical,
electronic, or computer controlled or assisted devices to match
less than or equal to the total number of possible selections.
Likewise, operator calls or house indicia may be determined,
selected, or sequenced individually, and/or in groups or sets and
subsequently displayed or otherwise provided to game players.
Whether selected individually or as a group or set, house or game
indicia may be displayed or presented individually and/or as a
group. For example, a group of game or house indicia may be
pre-selected prior to the beginning of a game and displayed or
presented as a group to the players. Subsequent selection and
presentation may occur for individual calls in substantially real
time during game play. As another example, all of the available
pool of indicia may be pre-selected or sequenced prior to game play
and then called or presented individually to the game players to
determine prize awards as described herein.
[0043] As used herein, the term "player indicia" refers to indicia,
such as objects, graphics, symbols, numbers, letters, or the like,
that are printed, displayed, or otherwise associated with a player
card used by the player to play a game of chance. In at least some
embodiments, the player may select one or more player indicia for
each player card. The term "house indicia" or "game indicia" refers
to indicia generated, called, or otherwise selected by a gaming
establishment or an operator of the game. House indicia are
compared to player indicia on each player card to determine if each
player card satisfies one or more winning conditions.
[0044] As used herein, the term "pattern" refers to a predetermined
combination of spaces of a player card. In at least some
embodiments, a winning combination is satisfied if indicia included
within the spaces associated with a pattern are matched to house
indicia called during the game.
[0045] It should be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the
art that the term "random" is not limited to true randomness, such
as truly random numbers. Rather, pseudorandom numbers and
pseudorandom algorithms are included within the meaning of
"random."
[0046] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating operation of a system
for playing a game of chance, such as electronic bingo or a related
game, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
System 100 includes a computer server 102 in communication with
various local and/or remote client devices using standard
communication protocols, which may include secure, encrypted
communications. Server 102 performs various functions associated
with operation, management, and reporting for bingo and related
games of chance as described in greater detail herein according to
various embodiments of the present disclosure. Server 102 may be
connected to other devices via a local and/or a wide area network
using any of a number of standard wired and/or wireless
communication protocols and technologies.
[0047] A management or administrator terminal or computer 104 may
be used to manage various game-related operations performed by
server 102. Computer 104 may be directly connected to server 102,
or may be connected via a public or private network, such as the
Internet, generally represented by 106. Server 102 may also be
connected to one or more computers 108, which may include one or
more website servers and/or gaming servers at one or more gaming
establishments or properties, for example, via a private network
and/or the Internet 106. Server 102 may control and/or coordinate
games for multiple gaming establishments or properties to
facilitate multi-property progressive prizes, for example. One or
more website servers 108 may be used to remotely play bingo or a
related game of chance where regulations permit. Similarly, a
website server 108 may provide status information for player
tickets or cards to allow players to obtain information relative to
multi-game tickets as described in greater detail herein.
[0048] Randomization devices used with bingo and related games of
chance according to the present disclosure may include at least one
device as generally represented by reference numeral 120 for
selecting house indicia or called objects from a pool of available
indicia or objects for a particular game. For example, device 120
may be implemented by one or more of a ball cage 122, an electronic
or computer controlled random number generator (RNG) 124, a deck of
cards 126, or a ball blower or console 128, although typically only
one device is used in any particular game.
[0049] RNG 124 may be implemented by a dedicated hardware device
with associated embedded software. Alternatively, RNG 124 may be
implemented entirely in software executing on server 102 or another
computer or server. In one embodiment, RNG 124 is implemented by a
dedicated hardware device or network appliance that communicates
via a standard network protocol, such as a wired or wireless
Ethernet protocol, and supports multiple games at multiple
locations with house or game draws of between 2 and 120 numbers.
RNG 124 may be programmed via hardware, software, or firmware to
provide a particular range of numbers (or other indicia) and
numbers of draws for a particular application. For example, in one
embodiment of bingo according to the present disclosure, RNG 124
initially provides 24 randomly generated numbers having values
between 1 and 75 for each game similar to a traditional bingo draw.
Additional draws or numbers may be provided to play the game to
conclusion depending on the particular implementation as described
in greater detail herein.
[0050] Although various house indicia selection devices or methods
may have advantages over others, those of ordinary skill in the art
will recognize that the present disclosure is independent of the
particular type of device 120 or method used to select, sequence,
or otherwise determine house indicia represented by called numbers
or objects as previously described. Depending on the particular
device used to select or otherwise determine house indicia, the
selected indicia may be manually entered by an operator and/or
automatically determined and communicated to server 102 in near
real time and/or as a group upon conclusion of a game or at other
selected intervals. For example, a ball blower console 128 may be
used to manually draw each number. Each ball drawn is
electronically or otherwise detected by console 128, or an
associated device, and communicated to server 102. In applications
having an RNG 124, selected house indicia are automatically
communicated to server 102 in response to a particular request,
which may be manually or automatically initiated. For example, an
operator may initiate an electronic ball draw via an associated
touch screen display 140 or similar device as illustrated and
described herein. Alternatively, touch screen 140 may be used to
enter ball calls determined using a manual device, such as ball
cage 122, cards 126, ball blower 128, or the like, which are then
communicated to server 102. In one embodiment, a desk terminal
implemented using touch screen 140 with embedded software
facilitates various game functions, such as game close, clear
boards, and re-display, for example. In other embodiments, server
102 may automatically generate a request for multiple draws when a
game is initiated. Of course, various other manual and/or automatic
strategies for selecting or otherwise determining house indicia may
be used.
[0051] As also shown in FIG. 1, system 100 may include one or more
point-of-sale (POS) terminals and/or writer terminals, represented
by reference numeral 150, to facilitate various game-related
functions. In one embodiment, each terminal 150 is a client device
implemented by a touch-screen display with embedded software to
provide a user interface to control gaming functions and
communicate with server 102. Terminals 150 may be located at
multiple gaming establishments and communicate with a single
centralized server 102. Each terminal 150 may also include an
integrated secondary customer display for displaying selected
player indicia, for example. Various accessories may also be
connected to, or integrated within, terminal 150. For example, a
magnetic card reader may be provided to read player affinity cards,
credit cards, and similar cards to track player habits. In
addition, a fingerprint reader may be provided to enhance login
security for operators of terminal 150. As previously described,
terminal 150 may communicate with server 102 and one or more
peripheral devices directly and/or using any standard communication
protocol, such as a wired or wireless Ethernet protocol, for
example. Terminal 150 may also include cash register features such
as subtotal, total, and tender. A single terminal 150 may be used
to provide gaming functions for any of a number of games being
coordinated by server 102.
[0052] Terminal 150 may be directly connected to, integrated with,
or otherwise in communication with various peripheral or accessory
devices such as a mark sense reader 152 and a ticket or card
printer 154, for example. Reader 152 may be used to automatically
read player tickets or card requests, which may include one or more
player selected indicia. In one embodiment, players may select
numbers printed on a paper ticket request by marking the ticket
request with a pen or pencil. The ticket request is then fed into
reader 152 which reads the marks and communicates associated
information to terminal 150. As described in greater detail below,
terminal 150 communicates the information associated with the
player selected indicia to server 102. The ticket or card request
may include all available numbers depicted as a bingo flashboard,
for example, as generally represented by flashboard 160. Of course,
various other arrangements may be provided. For example, a ticket
request may only include numbers written by hand by the player.
Ticket requests may be presented to an operator with selected
player indicia automatically and/or manually entered via terminal
150. However, use of a machine-readable ticket request in
combination with a corresponding device such as reader 152
facilitates reducing or eliminating errors associated with manually
selecting or entering player indicia selected by a particular
player. Upon collecting an associated wager and verifying ticket
information, a paper ticket or card 170 may be printed by printer
154. Alternatively, or in combination, a virtual ticket or card may
be provided in electronic form to an associated display on a
handheld device, such as a cell phone or a tablet device,
represented generally as 192, or a player terminal, such as a kiosk
194. As illustrated in FIG. 1, printer 154 may be directly
connected to terminal 150 and/or server 102 via a wired or wireless
connection. Alternatively, or in combination, one or more printers
154 may be networked to one or more writer terminals 150 and/or
server 102 and distributed at convenient locations throughout a
gaming establishment depending upon the particular application and
implementation.
[0053] System 100 includes and/or generates a plurality of player
cards or tickets 170. The actual type, arrangement, and content of
player cards 170 may vary by the game being played. Cards 170 may
have various common features, such as a game identifier 182 and
indicia or objects 184, 186, 188 (which represent numbers in this
example) that may include multiple wagers and/or multiple games
with one or more player selected indicia. For example, the wagers
associated with indicia 184, 186, 188 may represent multiple wagers
for a single game. Alternatively, each group 184, 186, 188 of
player indicia may represent wagers for three different games.
Alternatively, the three wagers may apply to multiple future games
at various intervals, such as one a day, one a week, ten per day,
etc. In one embodiment, player requested or selected indicia
include randomly generated numbers produced in response to a player
request for a quick pick card or ticket.
[0054] Cards 170 may also include computer readable indicia, such
as a machine readable identification and/or security code 180. For
example, computer readable indicia may include a linear or
two-dimensional bar code, a three-dimensional bar code or image,
machine readable numbers, a magnetic stripe, etc. Similarly, card
170 may include human readable numbers and/or letters associated
with a machine-readable symbol or barcode to identify a particular
ticket or card. Various other information may also be printed on
cards 170, such as the amount of a wager, a session ID, a number of
games associated with card 170, a date that card 170 was issued or
is valid to be played, etc., depending on the particular
implementation. Of course, arrangements of numbers or indicia other
than those shown or described are possible and contemplated within
the scope of this disclosure.
[0055] Cards 170 generally include a first plurality of indicia
(for example, 24 numbers plus a free marker) selected from a pool
of a second plurality of indicia (for example, 75 numbers). Some or
all of the player indicia may be selected or requested by the
player, with any remaining player indicia randomly generated by the
house using RNG 124 or a similar device. The indicia may be
prearranged in a particular order, such as from low to high, or
associated with a particular bingo letter, for example. Player
cards 170 may be physically implemented on paper, cardstock, or
similar material, or may be electronically or virtually represented
on a fixed, portable, or handheld electronic device having a
display, such as a player kiosk 194, or a handheld device 192, for
example. In one embodiment, cards 170 are implemented as paper or
cardboard cards having player indicia preselected and concealed by
pull tabs. In this embodiment, house indicia may be preselected
prior to the beginning of the game. Players open the pull tabs to
reveal the player numbers or other designations on player card 170.
The prize award or payout may be determined based on the number of
pull tabs opened by the player to match the previously designated
number of indicia or other winning conditions.
[0056] In addition, cards 170 may include an indication of a
winning pattern of player indicia that must be matched by house
indicia drawn during a game to receive a payout. For example, as
described more fully herein, card 170 may include a pattern of an X
that includes player indicia from a top left corner of card 170 to
a bottom right corner of card 170 (including a free space marker)
and from a bottom left corner of card 170 to a top right corner of
card 170. If the player indicia included in the spaces of card 170
covered by the pattern are matched by house indicia drawn during
the game, the player may win a predetermined payout based on a
total number of house indicia that were drawn in order to match the
pattern. The player may select the pattern to be matched before the
game begins. For example, the player may use kiosk 194, handheld
device 192, terminal 150, or another suitable device (also referred
to herein as a selection device) to select a pattern from a list or
display of available patterns. Alternatively, the player may
approve a preselected pattern or may choose a quick select option
to enable server 102 or terminal 150 to automatically select the
pattern.
[0057] In one embodiment, the player also selects the player
indicia included within the spaces of card 170 covered by the
selected pattern. For example, the player may select a number to be
placed in each space of card 170 that is covered by the X pattern
described above. Alternatively, server 102 or another device may
randomly select the player indicia included within the pattern
using RNG 124 or another device, and the player may approve the
randomly selected indicia or may cause the server 102 or RNG 124 to
randomly select another set of player indicia.
[0058] In one embodiment, the player may select and store one or
more favorite cards 170 in server 102 or in a gaming device, such
as handheld device 192 or kiosk 194. The favorite cards 170 may
include a designation or selection of one or more winning patterns
to be played and/or one or more player indicia selected to be
included within the pattern or card 170. Accordingly, a player may
store favorite patterns and numbers to be used in future games. The
favorite cards 170 (or the patterns and/or indicia thereof) may be
accessed and selected to be used during a later game as
desired.
[0059] Various accessories or peripherals may also be provided as
generally represented by a card or ticket checker 156, a barcode
scanner 158, and a display or flashboard 160. Ticket checker 156
may include a barcode reader in addition to a magnetic stripe
reader, for example. The magnetic stripe reader may be used to read
a customer affinity program card and display associated
information, for example. Ticket checker 156 is a player activated
device that may be used to scan a ticket or card 170 and determine
the ticket ID and display the status of that ticket 170. For
example, ticket checker 156 may scan the barcode on ticket 170 to
determine the ticket ID. The ticket ID information is communicated
to server 102 to determine the status of ticket 170. The ticket
status is returned to ticket checker 156 and displayed on an
embedded display. The ticket status may include a variety of
information related to the game or games associated with the
particular ticket 170, such as the date and time ticket 170 was
issued, the wager associated with ticket 170, the time of
completion of associated games, any winnings or payouts, and the
like. Barcode scanner 158 may also be used to scan or read
machine-readable information encoded on a ticket or card. The
information is communicated to server 102 to identify the ticket.
Associated information stored in a database in server 102 may then
be communicated to any associated terminal or display.
[0060] Flashboard 160 may be used to present or display house
indicia to players within a gaming establishment. While illustrated
as a dedicated display, flashboard 160 may be alternatively
implemented by a general-purpose display. Similarly, house indicia
may be communicated in various other formats depending upon the
particular application and implementation. In addition to a local
display, house indicia may be presented to players via wireless
devices such as one or more handheld devices 192. The wireless
devices may communicate with server 102 via an associated antenna
or tower 190. Antenna or tower 190 generally represents any
wireless transmitting device such as a wireless router, cell phone
tower, and the like. Alternatively, or in combination, house
indicia and other related gaming information may be presented to
one or more computers or servers 108 via the Internet 106 and/or
any local private or public networks. Likewise, any devices
illustrated in FIG. 1 may communicate with server 102 using a
wireless connection.
[0061] In operation, a game of chance, such as bingo or a related
game, is played for prizes, including monetary prizes, with cards
or tickets 170 bearing numbers or other player indicia. Players or
cardholders may cover the selected numbers or other indicia when
objects similarly numbered or designated are drawn or
electronically determined from ball cage 122 or ball blower 128,
from deck of cards 126, or from RNG 124, for example. Depending
upon the particular implementation, the game may be won by the
first person covering a preselected pattern of indicia on card 170,
which may include at least some of the player numbers or other
indicia selected by a player. In one embodiment, a player may
receive a payout or award for each player card 170 as each pattern
is matched during the game.
[0062] Numbers or other indicia, in addition to the winning pattern
to be matched, may be selected using a printed or electronic
representation of a bingo flashboard as generally represented by
flashboard 160, for example. In one embodiment, at least some of
the numbers and the pattern are selected by a player using a
handheld device 192, such as a cell phone or a tablet device, for
example. Numbers and winning patterns may be requested or selected
by a player using a standard text messaging protocol, such as SMS
or a similar protocol, for example. Similarly, players may select
or request one or more player indicia and a winning pattern to be
matched for a particular card or ticket 170 via terminal 150 and/or
by marking or requesting a quick pick, for example. In this case,
the player selected indicia are randomly generated by server 102
and/or an associated RNG 124.
[0063] In one embodiment, the game is played to conclusion by
drawing or electronically determining house indicia until a
predetermined number of house indicia have been drawn. Each player
or cardholder that matches the pattern receives a payout or prize.
For example, the game may be played until 60 house indicia have
been drawn out of the pool of 75 house indicia. Accordingly, the
game may end after a fixed number of draws have been completed.
Each cardholder is awarded a prize or payout associated with the
number of numbers or the patterns covered after the predetermined
number of indicia are drawn. Alternatively, the game may be played
to conclusion by drawing or electronically determining house
indicia until the pattern on each player card 170 of each player is
matched.
[0064] Prizes or payouts are awarded based on an associated pay
table stored within server 102 as described in greater detail
herein. Prize awards may be determined on a pari-mutuel basis based
on wagers made less a designated house portion. Alternatively,
prize awards may include a seeded prize (e.g., a progressive prize)
beginning at a minimum value and increasing based on a cumulative
amount of wagers or other meter until a winner is determined. As
previously described, a ticket or card 170 may be valid for a
predetermined number of future games based on a corresponding wager
amount for each game.
[0065] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a computer or
computing device 200 that may be used with system 100 (shown in
FIG. 1). More specifically, one or more computers, servers, or
other devices described in system 100 may be implemented as a
computing device 200. For example, server 102, administrator
computer 104, website server 108, terminal 150, handheld device
192, and/or kiosk 194 may be computing devices 200.
[0066] Computing device 200 includes one or more processors 202,
one or more computer-readable memories 204, and one or more
communication interfaces 206. In one embodiment, computing device
200 may also include one or more displays 208 and/or one or more
user interfaces 210. It should be recognized that memory 204,
communication interface 206, display 208, and user interface 210
(if provided) may be connected to processor 202 and/or to each
other via any suitable bus or busses, interfaces, or other
mechanisms.
[0067] Processor 202 includes any suitable programmable circuit
including one or more microcontrollers, microprocessors,
application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), systems on a chip
(SoCs), programmable logic circuits (PLCs), field programmable gate
arrays (FPGAs), and/or any other circuit capable of executing the
functions described herein. The above examples are exemplary only,
and thus are not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or
meaning of the term "processor."
[0068] Memory 204 includes transitory or non-transitory computer
readable medium, such as, without limitation, random access memory
(RAM), flash memory, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, a
compact disc, a digital video disc, and/or any suitable memory.
Memory 204 may include data as well as instructions that are
executable by processor 202 to program processor 202 to perform
functions described herein. For example, the methods described
herein may be performed by one or more processors 202 executing
instructions stored within one or more memories 204.
[0069] Communication interface 206 may include, without limitation,
a network interface controller (NIC) or adapter, a radio frequency
(RF) transceiver, a public switched telephone network (PSTN)
interface controller, or any other communication device that
enables computing device 200 to operate as described herein. For
example, communication interface 206 may connect to communication
interfaces 206 of other computing devices 200 of system 100 through
Internet 106 or another network using any suitable wireless or
wired communication protocol.
[0070] Display 208 may include, without limitation, a liquid
crystal display (LCD), a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), a
cathode ray tube (CRT), a plasma display, a light-emitting diode
(LED) display, a projection display, and/or any suitable visual
output device capable of displaying graphical data and text to a
user. For example, display 208 may be used to display a graphical
user interface to a player or an administrator, one or more images
associated with a game such as bingo or another game of chance,
player statistics, game statistics or status, and/or any other
suitable data.
[0071] User interface 210 may include, without limitation, a
keyboard, a keypad, a touch screen, a mouse, a scroll wheel, a
pointing device, an audio input device employing speech-recognition
software, a video input device that registers movement of a user,
and/or any other suitable device that enables the user to input
data into computing device 200 and/or retrieve data from computing
device 200.
[0072] FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate a player card 300 having different
winning patterns that may be selected by a player to play a game of
bingo, for example, using system 100 (shown in FIG. 1). Player card
300 includes a plurality of spaces 302 for displaying player
indicia 304 (also referred to as player selected indicia 304). In
one embodiment, spaces 302 are arranged in a 5.times.5 grid or
matrix in which the center space 302 is a free space 306 for
displaying a free space marker or indicia. Alternatively, card 300
may include spaces 302 arranged in a 5.times.15 grid or in any
other suitable arrangement. Free space 306 is considered to be
automatically matched at the start of a game. In one embodiment,
each space 302 (other than free space 306) is populated with either
player selected indicia 304, or indicia selected by server 102 or
by another system or device operated by the house. Alternatively,
only a subset of spaces 302 are filled with player indicia 304 as
described more fully herein. While indicia 304 are illustrated as
numbers in FIGS. 3A-3D, those of ordinary skill in the art should
recognize that indicia 304 may be symbols or any other suitable
indicia as desired.
[0073] In addition, the player selects a winning pattern 308 to be
used with each card 300 from a list of available patterns that
satisfy predetermined rules and/or requirements. In one embodiment,
the player may cycle through a list of patterns available for
selection on handheld device 192, kiosk 194, or terminal 150.
Alternatively, the player may choose to have a pattern 308
automatically selected by a device of system 100, such as server
102. For example, server 102 may randomly choose a pattern 308 from
a list of available patterns 308 and display the randomly selected
pattern 308 to the player. If the player is satisfied with the
pattern 308, the player selects the pattern 308 presented by server
102. If the player is not satisfied with the pattern 308 selected
by server 102, the player may direct server 102 to select another
pattern 308, or the player may select a pattern 308 from the list
of available patterns 308. Each card 300 associated with a player
may have the same pattern 308 as one or more other cards 300
associated with the player, or may have a different pattern 308
from each other card 300 associated with the player. In one
embodiment, the player may create one or more patterns 308 to be
included within the list of available patterns 308 and/or to be
used with card 300.
[0074] When a pattern 308 is displayed that meets the player's
approval, the player selects the pattern 308 for use with card 300.
Each card 300 is populated with player indicia 304. In one
embodiment, the player may select or change one or more player
indicia 304 for each card 300. For example, the player may select
one or more numbers or other indicia to be displayed in each space
302 of card 300, or may select one or more numbers or other indicia
to be displayed within each space 302 of pattern 308 (i.e., within
each space 302 enclosed by pattern 308). If the player does not
select indicia 304 for each space 302 of card 300 or pattern 308,
the remaining spaces 302 are populated with indicia 304 that are
randomly selected by server 102 or another device.
[0075] In one embodiment, server 102 and/or randomization device
120 randomly selects some or all of the player indicia 304 for
player card 300. The player may replace one or more player indicia
304 with player indicia 304 selected by the player. For example,
the player may replace all player indicia 304 within a player card
300, or may replace player indicia 304 within the selected pattern
308.
[0076] In one embodiment, the selected pattern 308 is
electronically or otherwise displayed on card 300. For example, if
card 300 is an electronic or virtual player card that is
electronically displayed on a computing device 200, such as
handheld device 192 or kiosk 194, the selected pattern 308 is
graphically overlaid on or around spaces 302 of card 300 associated
with pattern 308. Pattern 308 may be displayed or represented by a
border surrounding spaces 302 included within pattern 308, by
highlighting spaces 302 or indicia 304 included within pattern 308
with a color or shading that is different than spaces 302 outside
of pattern 308, by bolding or otherwise emphasizing indicia 304 of
spaces 302 included within pattern 308, graying out or otherwise
de-emphasizing indicia 304 of spaces not included within pattern
308, and/or any other suitable identification of spaces 302 or
indicia 304 included within pattern 308. In embodiments in which
card 300 is a paper or cardboard card, for example, pattern 308 may
be printed on card 300 by terminal 150 or another suitable device
in a similar manner as described above with reference to the
electronic card 300.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 3A, a first selected pattern 310 may
include an X shape or configuration of spaces 302 that includes
spaces 302 from a top left corner of card 300 to a bottom right
corner of card 300 (including free space 306) and from a bottom
left corner of card 300 to a top right corner of card 300
(including free space 306). As shown in FIG. 3B, a second selected
pattern 312 may include a frame shape or configuration that
includes each space 302 along a top edge, a right edge, a bottom
edge, and a left edge of card 300. As shown in FIG. 3C, a third
selected pattern 314 may include a "postage stamp" shape or
configuration that includes the four spaces 302 in the top left
corner of card 300. As shown in FIG. 3D, a fourth selected pattern
316 may include a corner shape or configuration that includes the
top left space, the top right space, the bottom right space, and
the bottom left space of card 300. Those of ordinary skill in the
art should recognize that patterns 308 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D are
exemplary only and do not limit the types or number of patterns 308
that may be used. Rather, any suitable type and number of patterns
308 may be used and selected by the player.
[0078] During operation, before a game is started, the player uses
handheld device 192, kiosk 194, terminal 150, or another suitable
device, to select a pattern 308 for each card 300 from the list of
available patterns. Alternatively, server 102 selects a pattern 308
and presents pattern 308 to the player. When the player selects a
pattern 308 for each card 300, the game begins. A plurality of
house indicia is drawn and is compared to player indicia 304 within
cards 300. If the player indicia included in the spaces of card 300
covered by pattern 308 are matched by house indicia drawn during
the game, the player may win a predetermined payout based on a
total number of house indicia that were drawn in order to match
pattern 308. In one embodiment, the game continues until a
predetermined number of house indicia are drawn, such as 60
indicia. In another embodiment, the game continues until enough
house indicia have been drawn to enable each pattern 308 on each
card 300 of every player playing the game to be matched.
[0079] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 400 of playing
a game of chance, such as bingo, that may be used with system 100
(shown in FIG. 1). In one embodiment, method 400 is implemented by
one or more processors of a computing device 200 (shown in FIG. 2),
such as server 102 (shown in FIG. 1). Additionally or
alternatively, method 400 may be executed by administrator computer
104, website server 108, terminal 150, handheld device 192, and/or
kiosk 194 (shown in FIG. 1).
[0080] A selection of one or more player cards 300 to be played
during a game is received 402, for example, by server 102. In one
embodiment, a player selects a number and a type of card 300 to be
played, such as 4 bingo cards 300. A wager is accepted 404 from the
player for each card 300. In addition, a selection of a winning
pattern 308 for each player card 300 is received 406, and a
selection of one or more player indicia 304 for each card 300 is
received 408 by server 102. Alternatively, player indicia 304 for
one or more cards 300 are randomly determined by server 102 or
another device. The player selections of the number and type of
cards 300 to be played, the wager, the winning patterns, and the
player indicia may be selected using handheld device 192, kiosk
194, terminal 150, and/or any other device, and may be communicated
from the device to server 102 through a private network or the
Internet 106, for example.
[0081] When the player cards 300, player indicia 304, and winning
patterns 308 have been selected, one or more player tickets are
issued 410. Each ticket may include any suitable number of cards
300. In one embodiment, tickets and cards 300 are printed on paper,
for example, using ticket printer 154, and are handed to the player
by an attendant. In another embodiment, tickets and cards 300 are
electronic tickets and cards 300, and are transmitted to a device
used by the player, such as handheld device 192 or kiosk 194.
[0082] The game is initiated and a plurality of house indicia are
called or randomly selected 412 by server 102 or by another
suitable device using randomization device 120 (shown in FIG. 1),
for example. The house indicia that have been selected are compared
with player indicia 304 on each card 300 to determine 414 whether
the house indicia match player indicia 304 within the selected
pattern 308. If a pattern 308 is not matched for a card 300 (i.e.,
if each player indicia 304 within pattern 308 has not been matched
by house indicia that have been selected), the game continues
unless it is determined 416 that a predetermined number of house
indicia has been selected. In one embodiment, the predetermined
number of house indicia is 60 such that the game ends after 60
house indicia have been selected.
[0083] In one embodiment, a first plurality of house indicia, such
as 24 numbers, is initially determined (e.g., called or randomly
selected) and the first plurality of house indicia are compared
with player indicia 304 within the selected pattern 308 to
determine if pattern 308 is matched. If no match occurs, or if the
game continues after a match has occurred, additional house indicia
are selected and player indicia 304 within pattern 308 are compared
to the house indicia (e.g., the first plurality of house indicia
and the additional selected house indicia) after each additional
house indicia is selected. The game may end after a second
plurality of house indicia, such as 60 numbers, is determined or
selected. In one embodiment, the payout starts at a predetermined
first value, and the payout is reduced after each additional house
indicia is determined after the first plurality of house
indicia.
[0084] If a pattern 308 is matched for a card 300, however, the
number of house indicia required to match pattern 308 is determined
418. For example, if 26 house indicia have been called before
pattern 308 is matched, the determined number of house indicia is
26. Even though at this point, a pattern 308 has been matched, the
game continues until a predetermined number of house indicia are
selected. Alternatively, the game may end after the first pattern
308 has been matched.
[0085] If the predetermined number of house indicia has not been
selected, the game continues and new house indicia are selected 412
as described above. However, once the predetermined number of house
indicia have been selected, the game ends and a payout for each
card 300 is determined 420. The payout is based on the number of
house indicia that were required to be selected or called to match
each pattern 308. To determine the payout for a card, the number of
house indicia selections or calls required to match a pattern 308
is compared to a paytable associated with pattern 308. The paytable
may be stored in memory 204 of server 102 or within any suitable
device. Once the payout for each card 300 is determined, the player
may cash out or may use any credits or payouts to play additional
games.
[0086] In an alternative embodiment, a number of player indicia 304
within the selected pattern 308 that match the house indicia is
determined at step 418 after all house indicia have been selected
or called. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the payout is
determined 420 based on how many player indicia 304 within the
selected pattern 308 have been matched by the house indicia.
[0087] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method 500 of issuing a player
card 300 that may be used with system 100 (shown in FIG. 1) and/or
with method 400 (shown in FIG. 4). In one embodiment, method 500 is
implemented by one or more processors of one or more computing
devices 200 (shown in FIG. 2), such as server 102 and terminal 150
(both shown in FIG. 1). Additionally or alternatively, method 500
may be executed by any other suitable computing device 200. In one
embodiment, method 500 may be used to select a pattern 308 and/or
player indicia 304 for a physical player card 300 (e.g., a player
card 300 printed on paper or cardstock).
[0088] A wager is received 502 at terminal 150, for example, from a
player who desires to play bingo using physical player cards 300.
In one embodiment, a plurality of blank bingo cards 300 is located
near terminal 150, or in another suitable location within a gaming
establishment. The player fills out or otherwise marks at least one
of the blank bingo cards 300 with a desired winning pattern 308 to
be used in a bingo game. Alternatively, the player fills out or
otherwise marks at least one bingo card 300 that has been at least
partially pre-filled with player indicia or other data. The player
submits player cards 300 with selected patterns 308, and player
cards 300 are received 504 by an attendant at terminal 150.
Alternatively, terminal 150 may be a self-serve terminal that does
not require an attendant to be present.
[0089] Player cards 300 are scanned 506 at terminal 150, for
example, using mark sense reader 152 (shown in FIG. 1), and player
cards 300 are associated 508 with the player. In one embodiment, a
player rewards card is input into terminal 150 to identify the
player. Data representative of player cards 300 and the player
rewards card may be transmitted to server 102 to enable server 102
to associate player cards 300 with the player.
[0090] The pattern markings of each player card 300 are analyzed to
identify 510 selected patterns 308 of player cards 300. In one
embodiment, the pattern markings are compared to known patterns to
identify a selected pattern 308 for each card 300. The selected
patterns 308 are validated 512 to ensure that the selected patterns
308 are available to be used in the bingo game. More specifically,
the selected patterns 308 are checked against, or compared to, a
set of rules or requirements to determine whether the selected
patterns 308 are valid to be used in the game. If the selected
patterns 308 are determined to be invalid (i.e., they do not
satisfy the rules or requirements), player cards 300 are discarded
and the player is notified to select one or more new cards 300 or
patterns 308.
[0091] In a similar manner, if the player chose to select indicia
304 on card 300 (for example, by writing desired indicia 304 on a
paper card 300 having one or more blank spaces 302), selected
indicia 304 are identified 514. In one embodiment, the submitted
player card 300 is analyzed using handwriting recognition software
or other analytic software or hardware to identify selected indicia
304. Selected indicia 304 are validated 516 to ensure that indicia
304 satisfy game requirements. More specifically, the selected
indicia 304 are checked against, or compared to, a set of rules or
requirements to determine whether the selected indicia 304 are
valid to be used in the game. If the selected indicia 304 are
determined to be invalid (i.e., they do not satisfy the rules or
requirements of the game), player cards 300 are discarded and the
player is notified to select one or more new cards 300 or indicia
304.
[0092] The game requirements for selected indicia 304 may include,
for example, ensuring that only numbers 1-15 are used within a "B"
column of the bingo card 300, ensuring that only number 16-30 are
used within an "I" column of the bingo card 300, and the like. The
game requirements for selected patterns 308 may include, for
example, ensuring that selected patterns 308 match available
patterns and/or that one or more paytables are associated with
selected patterns 308. When the player cards 300 have been
validated, a ticket is issued 518 for player cards 300, for
example, by printing the ticket using ticket printer 154 (shown in
FIG. 1). The ticket (and player cards 300 associated with the
ticket) may then be used to play the game.
[0093] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of another method 600 of issuing a
player card 300 that may be used with system 100 (shown in FIG. 1)
and/or with method 400 (shown in FIG. 4). In one embodiment, method
400 is implemented by one or more processors of one or more
computing devices 200 (shown in FIG. 2), such as server 102, kiosk
194, and terminal 150 (shown in FIG. 1). Additionally or
alternatively, method 600 may be executed by any other suitable
computing device 200. In one embodiment, method 600 may be used to
select a pattern 308 and/or player indicia 304 for an electronic
player card 300 at terminal 150.
[0094] A wager is received 602 at terminal 150, for example, from a
player who desires to play electronic bingo using electronic player
cards 300. One or more player cards 300 are displayed 604 to the
player using a display of terminal 150. For example, an attendant
or an operator may cause terminal 150 to display a plurality of
player cards 300 to the player, and the player may select one or
more of the displayed player cards 300 for use with an upcoming
game. Terminal 150 receives 606 the selection of player cards 300,
for example, through input of the attendant or the player at
terminal 150. In one embodiment, the player inputs selections via a
touch screen display of terminal 150.
[0095] Terminal 150 also displays 608 a list of available patterns
to the user via a display. A selection of one or more patterns is
received 610 by terminal 150, for example, through input of the
attendant or the player at terminal 150. In addition, a plurality
of player indicia 304 is displayed 612 for each player card 300
selected by the player. In one embodiment, the player indicia 304
is randomly generated by server 102 using RNG 124, for example. In
another embodiment, the player selects one or more player indicia
304 for player cards 300. If any spaces 302 of a player card 300
remain blank after the player selects the player indicia 304, the
blank spaces 302 are populated with randomly determined player
indicia 304 from server 102.
[0096] After player cards 300 are populated with player indicia
304, the player is presented 614 with an option to approve or
disapprove indicia 304 for each player card 300. If the player
disapproves indicia 304, a new set of indicia 304 is displayed 612.
For example, the player may select one or more indicia 304 to be
changed and may enter a new value or symbol for indicia 304 using
an input mechanism, such as a touch screen, of terminal 150 or by
communicating the changes to an attendant of terminal 150. The
player may alternatively select a button or another input mechanism
of terminal 150, for example, to display a new set of randomized
indicia 304 for one or more player cards 300.
[0097] If the player approves player indicia 304, a ticket is
issued 616 for selected player cards 300 that include selected
pattern 308 and player indicia 304. The issued ticket may be
printed on paper and delivered to the player, or the ticket may be
electronically transmitted to a player device associated with the
player, such as a kiosk 194, or a handheld device 192.
[0098] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 700 of issuing
a player card 300 that may be used with system 100 (shown in FIG.
1) and/or with method 400 (shown in FIG. 4). In one embodiment,
method 700 is implemented by one or more processors of one or more
computing devices 200 (shown in FIG. 2), such as server 102, kiosk
194, and terminal 150 (shown in FIG. 1). Additionally or
alternatively, method 700 may be executed by any other suitable
computing device 200. In one embodiment, method 700 may be used to
select a pattern 308 and/or player indicia 304 for an electronic
player card 300 using a device associated with a player (also
referred to as a "player device" or an "electronic player device").
The player device may include, without limitation, a handheld
device 192, a kiosk 194, a personal computer, a laptop, or any
other suitable device.
[0099] The player device establishes a network connection with
server 102, and the player device is authenticated 702 by server
102, for example, using a public key infrastructure (PKI)
authentication system or by another suitable authentication system.
In addition, the player may be authenticated and/or associated with
the player device by server 102.
[0100] Data representative of one or more player cards 300 is
received 704 from the player device. For example, the player device
may connect to server 102 via one or more networks and may
electronically transmit data representative of player cards 300 to
server 102. Server 102 also receives 706 data representative of a
wager from the player device through one or more networks.
Alternatively, the data representative of one or more player cards
and/or the wager may be received from the player device, via an
intermediate device such as terminal 150, through near-field
communication, through one or more SMS or MMS messages, by scanning
a barcode or image displayed on the player device, or by any other
suitable manner or device.
[0101] The player cards 300 and the wager received by server 102
are associated 708 with the player and the player device. For
example, in one embodiment, server 102 maintains a list or a
database of players and of player devices, player cards 300,
wagers, and other information associated with each player. Each
player card 300 includes a selected pattern 308 and may also
include one or more player indicia 304 selected by the player. The
selected pattern 308 and the selected player indicia 304 may be
represented as virtual markings on each player card 300 or may be
represented as data associated with player card 300.
[0102] Each player card 300 received by server 102 is analyzed to
identify 710 which pattern 308 has been selected by the player. In
one embodiment, the data representative of selected patterns 308
are compared to known patterns to identify selected pattern 308 for
each card 300. Selected patterns 308 are validated 712 to ensure
that patterns 308 are available to be used in the bingo game in a
similar manner as described above. If selected patterns 308 are
determined to be invalid, player cards 300 are discarded and the
player is instructed to select one or more new cards 300.
[0103] In a similar manner, if the player chose to select one or
more player indicia 304 for the submitted electronic card 300,
server 102 identifies 714 selected indicia 304. Selected indicia
304 are validated 716 to ensure that game requirements are
satisfied in a similar manner as described above. If selected
indicia 304 are determined to be invalid, player cards 300 or
indicia 304 are discarded and the player is instructed to select
one or more new cards 300 or indicia 304.
[0104] When patterns 308 and indicia 304 of player cards 300 have
been validated, a ticket is issued 718 for player cards 300. The
ticket, and player cards 300 associated with the ticket, are
transmitted 720 back to the player device for use in playing the
game.
[0105] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method 800 of selecting player
indicia and/or patterns for an electronic player card 300 that may
be used with system 100 (shown in FIG. 1) and/or with method 400
(shown in FIG. 4). In one embodiment, method 800 is implemented by
one or more processors of one or more computing devices 200 (shown
in FIG. 2), such as handheld device 192 or kiosk 194 (referred to
herein as a "player device"). The player device may additionally or
alternatively include, without limitation, a personal computer, a
laptop, or any other suitable device. Additionally or
alternatively, method 800 may be executed by any other suitable
computing device 200. In one embodiment, method 800 is executed at
least partially by an application installed on the player
device.
[0106] One or more player cards 300 are displayed 802 on the player
device. For example, server 102 may generate a plurality of player
cards 300 and may electronically transmit player cards 300 to the
player device through the Internet 106 or another suitable network.
An application executing on the player device receives player cards
300 and displays cards 300 to the player. The player may select one
or more player cards 300 from the cards displayed, and the player
device transmits selected cards 300 to server 102. The selection of
player cards 300 is received 804 by server 102.
[0107] A list of available patterns 308 is displayed 806 on the
player device based on player cards 300 selected. In one
embodiment, the list of patterns 308 is based on the type of player
cards 300 selected and/or the type of game being played. The list
of patterns 308 may be transmitted to the player device from server
102, for example. The player selects a pattern 308 for each player
card 300 from the list of available patterns 308 and the player
device transmits data representative of selected patterns 308 to
server 102.
[0108] Server 102 receives 808 the data representative of the
selected patterns from the player device and causes indicia 304 for
player cards 300 to be displayed 810 on the player device. In one
embodiment, server 102 selects indicia 304 to populate each player
card 300 with, and transmits data representative of indicia 304 to
each player card 300. Alternatively, server 102 may select only a
portion, or none, of indicia 304 to be used with each player card
300 and the remaining indicia 304 are selected by the player.
[0109] Method 800 determines 812 whether the player approves
indicia 304 selected by server 102. If the player does not approve
indicia 304 selected by server 102, a selection is received 814
from the player. The selection may include a request for server 102
to generate a new set of player indicia 304, and/or the selection
may include one or more indicia 304 selected by the player. For
example, the user may use one or more buttons to select a location
on a player card 300 and a number or other indicia 304 to be used
for the selected location on player card 300. Selected indicia 304
are displayed 810 on the player device in a similar manner as
described above.
[0110] If the player approves the indicia, a ticket is issued 816
by server 102 and is associated with the player cards 300 described
herein. The ticket is transmitted 818 to the player device for use
in playing the game.
[0111] FIG. 9 illustrates a pay table 900 that may be used with the
systems and methods described herein during play of a game of
chance, such as bingo. Pay table 900 lists the payouts, or prizes
902, that may be awarded to a player depending on a number of house
indicia, or ball calls 904, that were required for the player card
pattern 308 or patterns 308 to be matched. For example, if a player
card pattern 308 was matched on the 23.sup.rd ball call, the player
would win a prize of $500.
[0112] During play of the game of chance, the player selects a
pattern 308 and/or the player indicia 304 within pattern 308 as
described above. In the example pay table 900 illustrated in FIG.
9, the player selects a pattern 308 of 8 numbers and optionally
selects the 8 numbers in pattern 308 (or a subset of the numbers if
desired, with server 102 or another device selecting the remaining
numbers). The player selects the number of games to be played with
the selected pattern 308, or the number of games to be played with
card 300 or ticket generated with pattern 308. Accordingly, it
should be recognized that the same player indicia 304, pattern 308,
card 300, and/or ticket may be used for a plurality of games.
[0113] The player also selects a wager amount to be wagered on each
game. It should be recognized that any suitable amount may be
wagered, including wagers in non-whole dollar increments. If a
player wagers a non-whole dollar amount, such as $1.55, pay table
900 may be modified to award prizes that are predetermined
multiples of the wagered amount.
[0114] One or more cards 300 are generated with the selected
pattern 308 and/or the selected player indicia 304, and cards 300
are presented to the player as described above. For example, the
player may receive a paper or cardboard ticket, an electronic
ticket, or any other suitable ticket including the generated cards
300.
[0115] Gameplay, i.e., the play of the game of chance, is commenced
by server 102, for example. Server 102 and/or randomization device
120 initially selects a first plurality of house indicia, such as
14 numbers from a pool of 75 numbers in this example. The house
indicia are communicated to the player and/or the player device
(described above) as one or more ball calls. Server 102 determines
whether each player indicia 304 within the selected pattern 308
matches the house indicia selected by server 102. If each player
indicia 304 within the selected pattern 308 matches house indicia
called by server 102, the player wins the prize in pay table 900
associated with the number of house indicia called.
[0116] Server 102 and/or randomization device 120 select additional
numbers or other house indicia through individual ball calls until
a second plurality of house indicia have been selected, such as 55
indicia in this example. After each individual house indicia is
selected, server 102 determines whether player indicia 304 within
the selected pattern 308 match the called house indicia. If a match
occurs, the player wins the prize shown in pay table 900 associated
with the number of house indicia called. Even if one winner is
identified early in the selection of house indicia, play of the
game continues until the final house indicia is called (e.g., the
55.sup.th indicia in this example) and each matching pattern 308
wins a prize. Accordingly, a plurality of players may win a prize
during the gameplay described herein.
[0117] If no winners have been identified by the time the final
house indicia is called (i.e., no patterns 308 have been matched by
the called house indicia), server 102 and/or randomization device
120 continues selecting or "calling" house indicia until at least
one winner is identified. While pay table 900 is shown as having a
plurality of predetermined prize amounts for a given wager ($1 in
the example shown), it should be recognized that pay table 900 may
be set up to award a progressive or pari-mutuel prize in addition
to, or in place of, the predetermined prize amounts.
[0118] In one embodiment, pay table 900 and the game of chance may
be played using a player device having a randomization device 120,
such as RNG 124, integrated within the player device or coupled to
the player device. RNG 124 of the player device randomly selects
the house indicia used during the game. In such an embodiment, the
player may play the game of chance against the house rather than
against other players. Accordingly, if the player is playing
against the house, the player is playing an odds-based game in
which a prize is awarded strictly based on the pattern or patterns
matched by the player irrespective of any pattern matches or
gameplay of other players. For example, the player does not compete
against other players for the payout.
[0119] FIG. 10 illustrates another pay table 1000 that may be used
with the systems and methods described herein during play of a game
of chance, such as bingo. Pay table 1000 lists the prizes, or
payouts 1002, that may be awarded to a player depending on a number
of house indicia, or ball calls 1004, that were required for the
player card pattern or patterns to be matched. For example, if a
player card pattern was matched on the 23.sup.rd ball call, the
player would win a prize of $5000.
[0120] During play of the game of chance, the player selects a
pattern 308 and/or the player indicia 304 within pattern 308 as
described above. In the example pay table 1000 illustrated in FIG.
10, the player selects a pattern 308 of 8 numbers and optionally
selects the 8 numbers in pattern 308 (or a subset of the numbers if
desired, with server 102 or another device selecting the remaining
numbers). The player selects the number of games to be played with
the selected pattern 308, or the number of games to be played with
card 300 or ticket generated with pattern 308. Accordingly, it
should be recognized that the same player indicia 304, pattern 308,
card 300, and/or ticket may be used for a plurality of games.
[0121] The player also selects a wager amount to be wagered on each
game. It should be recognized that any suitable amount may be
wagered, including wagers in non-whole dollar increments. If a
player wagers a non-whole dollar amount, such as $1.55, pay table
1000 may be modified to award prizes that are predetermined
multiples of the wagered amount.
[0122] One or more cards 300 are generated with the selected
pattern 308 and/or the selected player indicia 304, and cards 300
are presented to the player as described above. For example, the
player may receive a paper or cardboard ticket, an electronic
ticket, or any other suitable ticket including the generated cards
300.
[0123] Gameplay is commenced by server 102, for example. Server 102
and/or randomization device 120 initially selects a first plurality
of house indicia, such as 20 numbers from a pool of 75 numbers in
this example. The house indicia are communicated to the player
and/or the player device (described above) as one or more ball
calls. Server 102 determines whether each player indicia 304 within
the selected pattern 308 matches the house indicia selected by
server 102. If each player indicia 304 within the selected pattern
308 matches house indicia called by server 102, the player wins the
prize in pay table 1000 associated with the number of house indicia
called.
[0124] Server 102 and/or randomization device 120 select additional
numbers or other house indicia through individual ball calls until
a second plurality of house indicia have been selected, such as 28
indicia in this example. After each individual house indicia is
selected, server 102 determines whether player indicia 304 within
the selected pattern 308 match the called house indicia. If a match
occurs, the player wins the prize shown in pay table 1000
associated with the number of house indicia called. Even if one
winner is identified early in the selection of house indicia, play
of the game continues until the final house indicia is called
(e.g., the 28.sup.th indicia in this example) and each matching
pattern 308 wins a prize. Accordingly, a plurality of players may
win a prize during the gameplay described herein. Alternatively,
server 102 ends the game at the ball call in which the first winner
has been identified.
[0125] If no winners have been identified by the time the final
house indicia is called (i.e., no patterns 308 have been matched by
the called house indicia), server 102 ends the game without
awarding a prize. While pay table 1000 is shown as having a
plurality of predetermined prize amounts for a given wager ($1 in
the example shown), it should be recognized that pay table 1000 may
be set up to award a progressive or pari-mutuel prize in addition
to, or in place of, the predetermined prize amounts.
[0126] In one embodiment, pay table 1000 and the game of chance may
be played using a player device having a randomization device 120,
such as RNG 124, integrated within the player device or coupled to
the player device. In such an embodiment, the player may play the
game of chance against the house rather than against other players,
as described above.
[0127] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another pay table 1100 that may be
used with the systems and methods described herein during play of a
game of chance, such as bingo. Pay table 1100 lists the prizes, or
payouts 1102, that may be awarded to a player depending on a number
of player indicia 304 that are matched (also referred to as a
"catch" 1104) within a selected pattern 308 by a plurality of house
indicia called during the game.
[0128] During play of the game of chance, the player selects a
pattern 308 and/or the player indicia 304 within pattern 308 as
described above. In the example pay table 1100 illustrated in FIG.
11, the player selects a pattern 308 of 8 numbers and optionally
selects the 8 numbers in pattern 308 (or a subset of the numbers if
desired, with server 102 or another device selecting the remaining
numbers). The player selects the number of games to be played with
the selected pattern 308, or the number of games to be played with
card 300 or ticket generated with pattern 308. In a similar manner
as described above, it should be recognized that the same player
indicia 304, pattern 308, card 300, and/or ticket may be used for a
plurality of games.
[0129] The player also selects a wager amount to be wagered on each
game. It should be recognized that any suitable amount may be
wagered, including wagers in non-whole dollar increments. If a
player wagers a non-whole dollar amount, such as $1.55, pay table
1100 may be modified to award prizes that are predetermined
multiples of the wagered amount.
[0130] One or more cards 300 are generated with the selected
pattern 308 and/or the selected player indicia 304, and cards 300
are presented to the player as described above. For example, the
player may receive a paper or cardboard ticket, an electronic
ticket, or any other suitable ticket including the generated cards
300.
[0131] Gameplay is commenced by server 102, for example. Server 102
and/or randomization device 120 selects a plurality of house
indicia, such as 24 numbers from a pool of 75 numbers in this
example. The house indicia are communicated to the player and/or
the player device (described above) as one or more ball calls.
Server 102 determines whether each player indicia 304 within the
selected pattern 308 matches the house indicia selected by server
102. The player wins a prize identified in pay table 1100 based on
the number of player indicia 304 that match the called house
indicia. For example, if 5 player indicia 304 are matched by the
called house indicia, the player would win $2.
[0132] It should be recognized that a plurality of players may win
a prize during the gameplay described herein. For example, each
player may win a prize based on the number of player indicia
matched by the called house indicia. If multiple players match all
8 player indicia such that the progressive prize is won, the
progressive prize may be split between the winning players. In one
embodiment, a fixed prize amount (or fixed multiple of the wagered
amount) may be provided instead of, or in addition to, the
progressive prize identified in pay table 1100.
[0133] Accordingly, as described herein, the players may win a
prize based on a partial pattern match. In other words, the players
may win a prize even if all the player indicia 304 within the
selected patterns 308 are not matched by the called house indicia.
Rather, the players may each win a prize based on the number of
player indicia 304 within each selected pattern 308 that are
matched by the house indicia.
[0134] In one embodiment, pay table 1100 and the game of chance may
be played using a player device having a randomization device 120,
such as RNG 124, integrated within the player device or coupled to
the player device. In such an embodiment, the player may play the
game of chance against the house rather than against other players,
as described above.
[0135] FIG. 12A illustrates a player card 1200 that only includes
player indicia 304 displayed within a selected pattern 308. FIG.
12B illustrates player card 1200 in which the spaces 1202 of card
1200 outside of the selected pattern 308 are at least partially
filled with a predetermined filler object. FIGS. 12A and 12B may be
used with any of the systems and methods described herein.
[0136] When a player selects a pattern 308 and/or player indicia
304 for the selected pattern 308 as described above, a player card
1200 (and a ticket including player card 1200) is issued by server
102, for example. As described above, player card 1200 and the
ticket may be printed on paper, cardboard, or another suitable
material, or may be electronically generated and displayed on a
player device. Player card 1200 is generated with the selected
player indicia 304 displayed within the selected pattern 308 (e.g.,
an X pattern 308 in FIGS. 12A and 12B). Spaces 1202 of player card
1200 that are outside of the selected pattern 308 are left blank
(as illustrated in FIG. 12A) or are at least partially filled with
a predetermined filler object 1204 (as illustrated in FIG.
12B).
[0137] Filler object 1204 displayed in the otherwise blank spaces
1202 of player card 1200 (illustrated in FIG. 12B) may include, for
example, a logo, text, an image, a shading or a filling of space
1202 with one or more colors or patterns, and/or any other suitable
object that is distinguishable from player indicia 304. If player
card 1200 is an electronic player card 1200, filler object 1204 may
additionally or alternatively include a video, an animated image,
and/or may include one of the foregoing objects that is displayed
during a first period of time and that is not displayed during a
second period of time. It should be recognized that filler object
1204 may completely or partially fill space 1202. In addition, the
same filler object 1204 may be displayed in each space 1202, or
different filler objects 1204 may be displayed in spaces 1202 as
desired.
[0138] Unless otherwise specified, each method described herein is
not limited to the order in which the steps of each method are
described or introduced. Rather, the steps may be rearranged in any
suitable order and/or may be combined with steps of other methods
as desired.
[0139] This written description uses examples to describe
embodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to
enable any person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments,
including making and using any devices or systems and performing
any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is
defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to
those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be
within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements
that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if
they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial
differences from the literal language of the claims.
* * * * *