U.S. patent application number 14/209041 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for electronic game and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to Megatouch, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Megatouch, LLC. Invention is credited to William L. LAYNE, IV.
Application Number | 20140265132 14/209041 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51524080 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140265132 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LAYNE, IV; William L. |
September 18, 2014 |
ELECTRONIC GAME AND METHOD
Abstract
An electronic gaming system for playing a game by a player
includes an electronic dart board, a playfield on the electronic
dart board, a screen associated with the electronic dart board and
a controller. The playfield includes a bonus target, a first
target, a second target and a third target. The bonus target is
smaller than the first target, the second target, and the third
target and is positioned between the first target, the second
target and the third target. The screen is configured to display a
representation of the playfield to alert the player of the status
of the game. The controller is in communication with the playfield
to send a signal to the playfield regarding the size and location
of the first target, the second target and the third target. The
controller is also in communicating with the screen regarding the
status of the game.
Inventors: |
LAYNE, IV; William L.;
(Harleysville, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Megatouch, LLC |
Bristol |
PA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Megatouch, LLC
Bristol
PA
|
Family ID: |
51524080 |
Appl. No.: |
14/209041 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61789047 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
273/371 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41J 5/00 20130101; F41J
5/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/371 |
International
Class: |
F41J 5/04 20060101
F41J005/04 |
Claims
1. An electronic gaming system for playing a game by a player, the
electronic gaming system comprising: an electronic gaming surface;
a playfield on the electronic gaming surface including a bonus
target, a first target, a second target and a third target, the
bonus target being smaller than the first target, the second
target, and the third target and being positioned between the first
target, the second target and the third target; a screen associated
with the electronic gaming surface, the screen configured to
display a representation of the playfield to alert the player of
the status of the game; and a controller associated with the
electronic gaming surface, the controller in communication with the
playfield to send a signal to the playfield regarding the size and
location of the first target, the second target and the third
target, the controller also communicating with the screen regarding
the status of the game.
2. The electronic gaming system of claim 1, wherein the controller
is configured to modify a first size of the first target based upon
signals received from the screen regarding a skill level of the
player.
3. The electronic gaming system of claim 2, wherein the player
includes a first player and a second player, the controller
configured to receive signals from the screen regarding a first
skill level of the first player and a second skill level of the
second player, the first size of the first target being different
than a second size of the first target based on the first skill
level and the second skill level.
4. The electronic gaming system of claim 3, wherein the signals
received from the screen at the controller indicate the first skill
level is greater than the second skill level, the first size being
smaller than the second size.
5. The electronic gaming system of claim 3, wherein the system is
configured such that the player includes a plurality of additional
players.
6. The electronic gaming system of claim 3, wherein the system is
configured such that the player includes a third player and a
fourth player.
7. The electronic gaming system of claim 3, wherein the system is
configured such that the first player is comprised of a first team
and the second player is comprised of a second team.
8. The electronic gaming system of claim 1, wherein the playfield
further includes a fourth target, a fifth target and a sixth
target, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth targets
arranged in a generally triangular-shape, a first row including the
first target, a second row including the second and third targets
and a third row including the fourth, fifth and sixth targets.
9. The electronic gaming system of claim 8, wherein the playfield
further includes a seventh target, an eighth target, a ninth target
and a tenth target arranged with the first, second, third, fourth,
fifth and sixth targets in a generally triangular-shape, a fourth
row including the seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth targets.
10. The electronic gaming system of claim 1, wherein the screen is
comprised of a touchscreen.
11. The electronic gaming system of claim 1, wherein the electronic
gaming surface is comprised of an electronic dartboard.
12. An electronic gaming system for playing a game by a player, the
electronic gaming system comprising: an electronic dartboard; a
playfield on the electronic dartboard including a first target, a
second target, a third target, a fourth target, a fifth target and
a sixth target, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth
targets each being substantially circular and arranged in a
triangular-shape with the first target positioned in a first row,
the second and third targets positioned in a second row and the
fourth, fifth and sixth targets positioned in a third row; a screen
associated with the electronic gaming surface, the screen
configured to display a representation of the playfield, including
representations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and
sixth targets to alert the player of the status of the game; and a
controller associated with the electronic dartboard and being in
communication with the playfield and the screen, the controller
configured to send signals to the playfield regarding the size and
location of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth
targets, the controller also communicating with the screen
regarding the status of the game.
13. The electronic gaming system of claim 12, further comprising: a
first bonus target positioned between the first, second and third
targets; a second bonus target positioned between the second,
fourth and fifth targets; and a third bonus target positioned
between the third, fifth and sixth targets.
14. The electronic gaming system of claim 13, wherein the first,
second and third bonus targets are smaller than the first, second,
third, fourth, fifth and sixth targets.
15. The electronic gaming system of claim 12, further comprising: a
bullseye target positioned between the second, third and fifth
targets.
16. The electronic gaming system of claim 12, wherein the first
target is substantially circular.
17. The electronic gaming system of claim 16, wherein the second,
third, fourth, fifth and sixth targets are substantially
circular.
18. The electronic gaming system of claim 12, further comprising: a
projectile for throwing at the playfield.
19. The electronic gaming system of claim 18, wherein the
projectile is comprised of a plurality darts.
20. The electronic gaming system of claim 12, wherein the first
target includes an outer zone, a middle zone and a center zone, the
center zone being smaller than the middle zone and the middle zone
being smaller than the outer zone.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/789,047, filed on Mar. 15, 2013, entitled
"Electronic Game and Method," the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Beer Pong and related variations is a game utilizing a
rectangular table with a series of cups aligned on each end with
beer at least partially filling the cups and two teams that attempt
to land ping pong balls in their opponents cups on the opposite
side of the table. Beer pong is a social game that encourages
drinking, is generally easy to learn and play and players of all
skill levels can typically enjoy the game since it involves a fairy
simple physical action that almost anyone can do, even while
drinking
[0003] The game requires a relatively large space to play, is
relatively messy if and when cups are toppled by ping pong balls,
creates a mess when beer drips off of the ping pong balls, can be
unsanitary when players drink from cups with a ping pong ball
therein that was recently rolling on the floor and other related
limitations and disadvantages.
[0004] Many locations offer "beer pong nights" as special events to
lure patrons to their establishment, but these tournament events
require a large amount space, setup, supervision and clean-up. Most
locations do not have the space or personnel to offer beer pong
games or tournaments and certain jurisdictions discourage or
legislate against beer pong in public establishments.
[0005] It would be desirable to design, construct and implement a
beer pong game that limits the amount of space required to play the
game, reduces the mess created by traditional beer pong and is
relatively simple for players to learn and play while retaining the
fun and social aspects of a traditional beer pong game.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Briefly stated, the preferred invention is directed to an
electronic gaming system for playing a game by a player including
an electronic game surface, preferably a dart board, a playfield on
the electronic game surface, a screen associated with the
electronic game surface and a controller. The playfield includes a
bonus target, a first target, a second target and a third target.
The bonus target is smaller than the first target, the second
target, and the third target and is positioned between the first
target, the second target and the third target. The screen is
configured to display a representation of the playfield to alert
the player of the status of the game. The controller is in
communication with the playfield to send a signal to the playfield
regarding the size and location of the first target, the second
target and the third target. The controller is also in
communicating with the screen regarding the status of the game.
[0007] In another aspect, the preferred invention is directed to an
electronic gaming system for playing a game by a player. The
electronic gaming system includes an electronic dartboard, a
playfield on the electronic dartboard including a first target, a
second target, a third target, a fourth target, a fifth target and
a sixth target, a screen associated with the electronic gaming
surface and a controller associated with the electronic dartboard
and being in communication with the playfield and the screen. The
first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth targets are each
substantially circular and are arranged in a triangular-shape with
the first target positioned in a first row, the second and third
targets positioned in a second row and the fourth, fifth and sixth
targets positioned in a third row. The screen is configured to
display a representation of the playfield, including
representations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and
sixth targets, to alert the player of the status of the game. The
controller is configured to send signals to the playfield regarding
the size and location of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth
and sixth targets. The controller also communicates with the screen
regarding the status of the game.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of the invention, will be better understood when read
in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of
illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings
embodiments which are presently preferred. It should be understood,
however, that the invention is not limited to the precise
arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an electronic gaming
system in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the
present invention;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of a playfield of the
electronic gaming system of FIG. 1 and of an electronic gaming
system in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the
present invention;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of an electronic gaming
system in accordance with the second preferred embodiment of the
present invention;
[0012] FIG. 4 is an alternative front elevational view of the
electronic gaming system of FIG. 3;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the electronic gaming
system of FIG. 3;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of a gaming system in
accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0015] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the gaming system of
FIG. 6; and
[0016] FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of a preferred display
area and control area for use with any of the gaming systems of
FIGS. 1-7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] Certain terminology is used in the following description for
convenience only and is not limiting. Unless specifically set forth
herein, the terms "a", "an" and "the" are not limited to one
element but instead should be read as meaning "at least one". The
words "right," "left," "lower," and "upper" designate directions in
the drawings to which reference is made. The words "inwardly" or
"distally" and "outwardly" or "proximally" refer to directions
toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center or
orientation of the device and system and related parts thereof. The
terminology includes the above-listed words, derivatives thereof
and words of similar import.
[0018] Referring to FIGS. 1-5, first and second preferred
embodiments of the present invention are directed to an electronic
gaming system, generally designated 10, for playing a game by a
player. The electronic gaming system 10 of the first preferred
embodiment (FIGS. 1 and 2) has similar components and features to
the electronic gaming system 10' of the second preferred embodiment
and like numerals will be utilized to identify like elements and
features of the first and second preferred embodiments of the
electronic gaming systems, generally designated 10, 10',
respectively, with a prime symbol (') utilized to distinguish the
elements and features of the second preferred embodiment from the
first preferred embodiment.
[0019] The electronic gaming system 10, 10' of the first and second
preferred embodiments, which is an electronic dart board in the
preferred embodiments, includes an electronic game surface 12, 12'
with a playfield 14, 14' thereon. The playfield 14, 14' includes a
bonus target 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d (collectively identified as "16"),
16a', 16b', 16c', 16d' (collectively identified as "16'"), a first
target 18, 18', a second target 20, 20' and a third target 22, 22'.
The bonus target 16, 16' is smaller than the first target 18, 18',
the second target 20, 20' and the third target 22, 22'. The first,
second and third targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22' are
substantially circular and have substantially the same sizing. A
first bonus target 16a, 16a' is positioned between the first target
18, 18', the second target 20, 20' and the third target 22,
22'.
[0020] In the first and second preferred embodiments, the playfield
14, 14' includes a fourth target 24, 24', a fifth target 26, 26',
and a sixth target 28, 28'. The targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22',
24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' are preferably arranged in a generally
triangular-shape with a first row including the first target 18,
18', a second row including the second and third targets 20, 20',
22, 22' and a third row including the fourth, fifth and sixth
targets 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28', respectively, but is not so
limited and the targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26,
26', 28, 28' may be arranged in nearly any configuration on the
board that permits playing of the game by the player(s). The bonus
targets 16, 16' are preferably arranged between certain of the
targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' such
that hitting one of the bonus targets 16, 16' may result in the
game system indicating that all adjacent targets 18, 18', 20, 20',
22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' were hit or cleared by the
particular projectile or dart or an alternative bonus is attained
by the player, as will be described in greater detail below. Each
of the targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28'
is preferably, substantially circular in the general shape of the
open mouth of a cup, but is not so limited and may have nearly any
size and/or shape that may be utilized as a target for projectiles
or darts on the playfield 14, 14'.
[0021] Referring to FIG. 1, in the first preferred embodiment, the
electronic gaming system 10 also includes a screen or touchscreen
30 associated with the electronic gaming system 10. The screen 30
is preferably configured to display a representation of the
playfield 14 to alert the player of the status of the game. For
example, the screen 30 may visually present two sets or visual
representations of the playfield 14, one for a first team or player
and one for a second team or player to visually show the players,
users and/or spectators which targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 the
player has cleared and which targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 are
still in play during the game or nearly any other prompt or graphic
that may assist the players, users and/or spectators during the
game or while the game is idle. For example, the screen 30 may
display attractive graphics and/or messages when the game is not
being played to attract potential users to play the game, may
include graphics or a sequence of graphics to set-up the game, may
include instructions regarding game play or nearly any other
graphics or display that may assist with the electronic gaming
system 10. Alternatively, the electronic gaming system 10' may be
configured without the screen 30 of the first preferred embodiment,
such as in the configuration of the electronic gaming system 10' of
the second preferred embodiment.
[0022] In the first preferred embodiment, the screen 30 is
preferably comprised of a twenty-two inch (22'') touchscreen
display 30 for software interaction, game status display and
idle/attract mode. However, the screen 30 is not so limited and may
be comprised of a non-interactive display having nearly any size
and/or shape that is able to perform certain preferred functions of
the screen 30. The screen 30 and/or the playfield 14, 14' may also
be adapted to include light rings around each target area, adapted
to highlight or show targets the player should shoot for during
game play and other related features. The screen 30 and playfield
14, 14' are also preferably configured to include at least
controllable, tri-color light emitting diodes ("LED") to customize
colors for each player, produce special effects and related
features, but are not so limited.
[0023] Referring to FIGS. 1-5, the first and second preferred
electronic gaming systems 10, 10' also include a controller 32,
32'. The controller 32, 32' is preferably in communication with the
playfield 14, 14' to send a signal to the playfield 14, 14'
regarding the size and location of the targets 18, 18', 20, 20',
22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28', impacts on the playfield 14,
14' by projectiles or darts 34, 34' or other related communications
with the playfield 14, 14'. In the first preferred embodiment, the
controller 32 is also preferably in communication with the
touchscreen 30 regarding the status of the game, selections by the
user or player, graphics related to the game or attraction or other
related matters. The projectiles or other objects 34, 34' may be
thrown at the playfield 14, 14' and do not necessarily need to
stick to or fix themselves into the playfield 14, 14' to log a hit
of the targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28,
28'. When using the projectiles or other objects 34, 34' that do
not stick into the playfield 14, 14', a basket or net beneath the
playfield 14, 14' to container the projectiles or other objects 34,
34' so that they are contained proximate the gaming systems 10, 10'
is preferred.
[0024] Electronic games, including darts and dart board games, are
popular in numerous locations, but can be intimidating to new
players as there are many different rules/games that can be played.
The gaming surface 12, 12' itself has many regions that require
skill to hit, therefore, the barrier of entry is fairly high for
relatively new players. In addition, there are numerous games and
variations to darts and new players can be intimidated by not
knowing the rules of the game or understanding the strategy of the
game.
[0025] In the first and second preferred embodiments, the
electronic gaming systems 10, 10' are comprised of coin-op
electronic dart machines that are adapted for the beer pong game
and provide locations or venues and their patrons a simulation of
one of the most popular party/drinking games, Beer Pong, generally
without all the difficulties, overhead, space constraints, mess and
related disadvantages of having an actual beer pong table setup and
game. The typical electronic gaming surface 12, 12' of the
electronic gaming systems 10, 10' is preferably replaced by the
preferred playfield 14 or is adapted to include the preferred
playfield 14'. In the preferred games, traditional beer pong is
adapted by replacing the action of throwing a ball into a cup with
throwing the dart or other projectile 34, 34' at the targets 18,
18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28'. The projectile
34, 34' may be comprised of a ball, a ping pong ball or other
related objects that may be thrown at the playfield 14, 14'. The
preferred electronic gaming systems 10, 10' generally appeal to a
much larger audience and have a much lower barrier of entry when
compared to traditional beer pong games and electronic darts. The
preferred electronic gaming systems 10, 10' may also be played by
single players relatively easily, generally in contrast to
traditional beer pong, wherein a single player generally will not
go through the trouble of setting up an entire playing surface with
the related equipment to play the game. The preferred electronic
gaming systems 10, 10' requires little to no set-up for the player
and may encourage the single player to play for practice or
enjoyment, while also retaining the social aspects of traditional
beer pong when played by multiple players. The preferred electronic
gaming systems 10, 10' and related games are not limited to any
specific number of players and may be played by single players, two
players, three players, four players or nearly any number of
players that can joint in a game, as would be understood by one
having ordinary skill in the art based upon a review of the present
disclosure.
[0026] The first and second preferred electronic gaming systems 10,
10' may be handicapped to ensure beginner players or those who can
barely hit or have difficulty impacting specific areas on the
gaming surface 12, 12', can have a fun experience even against a
dart pro. For example, when the game is initially set-up, users
having different abilities may request, preferably to the
controller 32, 32', to handicap the game. The game may be
handicapped in numerous manners, such as by permitting a player
with less skill additional throws of the projectiles 34, 34' in
each round, manipulating the sizes and/or locations of the targets
18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' or the bonus
targets 16, 16' or other strategies for handicapping the game.
[0027] The first and second preferred electronic gaming systems 10,
10' are also preferably configured to use standard electronic dart
conventions so the preferred machine and/or system can be a drop-in
replacement or a companion piece to an existing electronic game,
such as a dart board. For example, the preferred electronic gaming
systems 10, 10' utilize relatively conventional throwing distances,
number of darts or projectiles per turn, machine sizes, darts or
projectiles 34, 34' and related features and elements to generally
mimic conventional electronic dart games. The preferred electronic
gaming systems 10, 10' may be expanded and designed for advanced
players to include individual player accounts, avatars, stat
tacking, handicaps, alternative game rules, tournaments and related
features.
[0028] The first and second preferred electronic gaming systems 10,
10' preferably utilize electronic technology to enhance the playing
experience. For example, the preferred electronic gaming systems
10, 10' may include lights showing electronic indications regarding
what and/or where to hit on the playfield 14, 14' or the screen 30,
the screen 30 reacting to events during the game, a speaker 36, 36'
to provide audible prompts to the players, visual or audible
prompts encouraging players and/or music and light effect to
enhance the experience. For example, the gaming systems 10, 10' may
utilized red flashing lights and music when in a redemption mode,
as will be described in greater detail below, is employed or
entered.
[0029] Players are also preferably charged a fee for playing the
preferred electronic gaming systems 10, 10'. The controller 32, 32'
is preferably in communication with a currency receiving mechanism
38, 38' to register payments to play the game. The currency
receiving mechanism 38, 38' may include coins or currency slots on
the machines, credit mechanisms at or remote from the machines,
wireless communications with the controller 32, 32' to register
payments or other related currency exchange methods or
mechanisms.
[0030] In use, the preferred electronic gaming systems 10, 10' may
be played in numerous modes and variations, including single
player, multi-player, such as two to four (2-4) player competitive,
team games, such as two versus two (2 v 2) team play and many other
game variants such as larger team games, multiples of players,
tournaments, elimination style brackets and the like.
[0031] Referring to FIG. 2, in the first and second preferred
embodiments, the playfield 14, 14' includes the targets 18, 18',
20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' arranged in the
generally preferred triangular-shape with the bonus targets 16, 16'
positioned within or between the generally triangular-shape of
combinations of three of the targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24,
24', 26, 26', 28, 28'. Each of the targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22,
22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' preferably includes an outer zone
17a, 17a', a middle zone 17b, 17b' and a center zone 17c, 17c'.
Specifically referring to FIG. 2, the outer zone 17a, 17a' is
comprised of the outer, relatively light ring, the middle zone 17b,
17b' is comprised of the middle dark or black ring and the center
zone 17c, 17c' is comprised of the central area generally
represented by the "m." The targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24,
24', 26, 26', 28, 28' are not limited to inclusion of the outer
zone 17a, 17a', the middle zone 17b, 17b' and the center zone 17c,
17c' and may be comprised of single circles or other shapes or may
include additional zones, such and four (4), five (5) or more zones
that provide different results for the player when hit by the
projectile 34, 34'. In addition, the zones 17a, 17a', 17b, 17b'
17c, 17c' are not limited to being comprised of rings and/or
circles and may have uneven shapes, curved shapes, rectangular
shapes or nearly any size and/or shape, such as shapes of U.S.
states, that provide varying difficulty for a player to hit with
the projectile 34, 34'. The zones 17a, 17a', 17b, 17b' 17c, 17c'
are preferably utilized to handicap the games by requiring a player
with a different skill level to hit different zones to close a
target 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28', by
requiring sequential hits in specific zones 17a, 17a', 17b, 17b'
17c, 17c' or the like. The targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24,
24', 26, 26', 28, 28' are preferably generally circular to simulate
the shape of a mouth of a cup, as is utilized in traditional beer
pong, but are not so limited and may be sized, shaped and arranged
in nearly any manner that functions in accordance with the normal
operating conditions of the preferred electronic gaming systems 10,
10'. In addition, the bonus targets 16, 16' are not limited to
being positioned as shown in FIG. 2, within or between the
generally triangular-shape of three of the targets 18, 18', 20,
20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28', respectively, or
otherwise. For example, the bonus targets 16, 16' may be spaced
from the targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28,
28' at the edges of the playfield 14, 14' and have nearly any size
and/or shape.
[0032] The bonus targets or star targets and bullseye 16, 16' are
defined in the shape of a star or relatively small circle in the
preferred embodiments and may be utilized to clear or close-out
multiple targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28,
28' with a single dart or projectile, by hitting the bonus targets
16, 16' multiple times, only once or to otherwise provide bonuses
during game play.
[0033] The preferred game may be played in, for example, a two to
four (2-4) player competitive mode, wherein each player has their
own set of targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28,
28' and their own playfield 14, 14'. Each player's goal is to be
the first to clear or close out their all of their targets 18, 18',
20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28'. How a target 18, 18',
20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' is cleared depends on
the difficulty of the game, the selected player expertise or other
game factors. When one player clears all of their targets 18, 18',
20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28', each remaining player
preferably has a chance to force an overtime by shooting with
redemption rules, which is described in greater detail below. This
two to four player competitive mode is not meant to be limiting and
provides only an example of a game playing mode that may be
employed with the preferred electronic gaming systems 10, 10'. The
two to four player competitive mode preferably has a gameplay
target length of five to ten minutes (5-10 min.), which is not
limiting and gameplay may take more or less time, depending on the
progress of the individual game and the players.
[0034] The preferred game may also be played in, for example, a two
v two (2 v 2) team play mode, wherein each team of two players has
their own set of targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26,
26', 28, 28' and their own playfield 14, 14'. Each team's goal is
to be the first to clear or close out their all of their targets
18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28'. How the
targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' are
cleared depends on the difficulty selected for each team or other
game factors and the order and progression of projectiles or darts
34, 34' thrown by each player may also vary. For example, each
player on the team may throw one projectile or dart 34, 34' in a
round, then each player from the opposing team throws one
projectile or dart 34, 34' in the same round and the process
continues until all of the targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24,
24', 26, 26', 28, 28' for one of the teams are closed out. When a
team clears all of their targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24,
24', 26, 26', 28, 28' each player on the other team preferably has
a chance to force an overtime by shooting with redemption rules, as
will be described in greater detail below. The two v two (2 v 2)
team play mode preferably has a gameplay target length of five to
ten minutes (5-10 min.), which is not limiting and gameplay may
take more or less time, depending on the progress of the individual
game and the players.
[0035] The preferred game may further be played in, for example, a
single player mode, wherein points, timing, accuracy or other goals
are provided to the single player. The single player mode
preferably provides a simple, fun game. The single player mode may
provide rankings on leaderboards, wherein players can compare their
scores to other players. In the preferred single player mode the
player shoots or throws a predetermined number of projectiles or
darts into the board to obtain the highest score possible. The
preferred electronic gaming systems 10, 10' preferably display top
players, such as the top ten (10) players, on the screen 30. The
single player mode may provide double points for hitting the same
targets 18, 18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' or
bonus targets 16, 16' consecutively. The preferred single player
mode may also provide scoring bonuses for hitting all three (3)
stars of the bonus targets 16, 16' during a game and/or scoring
bonuses for hitting a bulls-eye of the bonus targets 16, 16' during
the game. For example, scoring points for hitting the targets 18,
18', 20, 20', 22, 22', 24, 24', 26, 26', 28, 28' may include one
hundred (100) points for hitting the outer zone 17a, 17a', two
hundred (200) points for hitting the middle zone 17b, 17b', three
hundred (300) points for hitting the center zone 17c, 17c', five
hundred (500) points for hitting the star target of the bonus
targets 16, 16' and one thousand (1000) points for hitting the
bull's eye target 16d, 16d' of the bonus targets 16, 16'. These
points preferences are not meant to be limiting and the game may be
configured and arranged to provide nearly any point total for
hitting particular areas of the playfield 14, 14' or for hitting
the playfield 14, 14' in specific sequences. The single player mode
preferably has a gameplay target length of three minutes (3 min.),
which is not limiting and gameplay may take more or less time,
depending on the progress of the individual game and the
players.
[0036] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, in a third preferred embodiment
the gaming system 10'' may be played on a manual or non-electronic
playfield 14'' with representations of the targets 18'', 20'',
22'', 24'', 26'', 28'' and bonus targets 16'' and the players may
keep score or track of the game manually. The gaming system 10'' of
the third preferred embodiment is operated and the game is played
generally the same as the preferred electronic gaming systems 10,
10' of the first and second preferred embodiments and the
components of the third preferred embodiment are identified with
like reference numerals and a double prime symbol ('') to
distinguish the components and features of the third preferred
embodiment.
[0037] The gaming system 10'' of the third preferred embodiment may
alternatively be associated with a projector 50 that projects the
image of the playfield 14'' onto a surface. The projector 50 may
project nearly any type and/or variety of playfield 14'' onto the
surface such as the preferred beer pong playfield 14'' of the
preferred embodiments, conventional dart board playfields,
battleship playfields or nearly any variety of playfield or gaming
surface that the user and/or designer may desire to display on the
surface. The playfield 14'' in this alternative arrangement
preferably includes sensors (not shown) that are able to detect
where the projectiles or darts 34'' hit the playfield 14'' such
that the controller 32'' is able to score and/or keep track of the
game play. The sensors may be contact sensors, proximity sensors,
pressure sensors or the like associated with the surface of the
playfield 14'', may be optical sensors that visually or optically
detect the position of the projectiles or darts 34'' on the
playfield 14'' during game play or alternative sensors that are
able to detect the positions of the projectiles or darts 34'' on
the playfield 14'' during game play. This alternative third
preferred embodiment of the gaming system 10'' allows a dynamic
playfield 14'' that has the ability to change and present a variety
of gaming concepts to players, including the preferred beer pong
game and nearly any alternate dart-based or projectile-based game.
The alternative third preferred embodiment of the gaming system
10'' may also be dynamic in that the position of the targets 18'',
20'', 22'', 24'', 26'', 28'' and bonus targets 16'' may be quickly
changed by the controller 32'' to modify the number of targets
18'', 20'', 22'', 24'', 26'', 28'' and/or bonus targets 16'' in a
particular game, to re-rack the positioning of the targets 18'',
20'', 22'', 24'', 26'', 28'' and/or bonus targets 16'' and to
quickly change games or other dynamic changes during game play. The
controller 32'' may also cause targets 18'', 20'', 22'', 24'',
26'', 28'' and/or bonus targets 16'' to disappear from the
playfield 14'' when closed-out. When the game is not being played
in this alternative third preferred embodiment, the controller 32''
may direct the projector 50 to project attraction images, gaming
instructions, advertisements and the like onto the surface and/or
playfield 14''. In addition, the projector 50 may alternatively be
directed by the controller 32'' to display television images,
sporting events, live video feeds or nearly any preferred images
onto the surface.
[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, the preferred gaming systems 10,
10', 10'' may be associated or connected to a central server 70
that preferably communicates with the controllers 32, 32', 32'' of
a plurality of gaming systems 10, 10', 10'' to provide a network of
gaming systems 10, 10', 10''. The network of gaming systems 10,
10', 10'' may be provided at a single gaming site or may be located
at numerous gaming sites at various worldwide locations. The
central server 70 is preferably able to remotely provide software,
gaming and/or other like updates to the network of gaming systems
10, 10', 10'', such as providing new games, sending updated
software or fixes, sending pricing updates, sending software
updates where displays for the screens 30 in attract mode are
updated or other like information to the network of gaming systems
10, 10', 10''. In addition, the central server 70 is preferably
able to receive information from the network of gaming systems 10,
10', 10'' to track player statistics, look up player accounts,
verify login credentials of players, receive payment, sync with
networked/global leader boards and other like communications.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, during typical multiplayer game play
of the first and second preferred embodiments of the electronic
gaming system 10, 10' and the third preferred embodiment of the
gaming system 10'' players throw three (3) projectiles or darts 34,
34', 34'' per turn or during a single round. The following
description of the game play will utilize reference numerals for
the first preferred embodiment, it being understood by one having
ordinary skill in the art, the described games and rules are
applicable to the second and third preferred embodiments, as
appropriate.
[0040] When a targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 is cleared, players on
the other team must take a sip/gulp/shot of their drink. If one of
the projectiles or darts 34 hits one of the star targets 16a, 16b,
16c, all the appropriate targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 surrounding
the star target 16a, 16b, 16c that was hit are cleared or closed.
If the projectile or dart 34 hits the bull's eye target 16d, all
the targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 on the playfield 14 are cleared.
Once a player clears all of their targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28
every other player gets a chance to take the game into overtime by
playing by Redemption Rules, as is described in greater detail
below. Based on the difficulty selected at the beginning of the
game during set-up or as is predetermined between the players, the
rules for clearing a single target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 may vary.
The game play is not limited to this described set of rules and
conventions and may be otherwise played, as would be apparent to
one having ordinary skill in the art.
[0041] During a relatively typical game, clearing one of the
targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 may be accomplished by hitting one
of the targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 with a single projectile or
dart 34 in the center zone 17c or by hitting the same target 18,
20, 22, 24, 26, 28 anywhere with two (2) of the three (3)
projectiles or darts 34 thrown during the round. For example,
hitting any of the targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 twice during the
round will clear or close out the target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28.
This convention is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant
to be limiting.
[0042] For a preferred, typical beginner difficulty game, a single
target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 may be cleared by hitting the target
18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 in any of the outer zone 17a, the middle
zone 17b and a center zone 17c, which will result in clearance or
close out of the target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28. This beginner
difficulty convention is for illustrative purposes only and is not
meant to be limiting, as the game may be otherwise configured for a
beginner difficulty. Alternatively, for a preferred typical expert
difficulty game, all three (3) projectiles or darts 34 thrown
during a single round must hit the same target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26,
28 and at least one (1) of the projectiles or darts 34 must land in
the middle zone 17b or the center zone 17c for the target 18, 20,
22, 24, 26, 28 to be considered clear. This is also only an
illustrative preferred example and is not meant to be limiting. In
a further alternative, for a preferred expert difficulty game
option, all three (3) projectiles or darts 34 in a turn or round
must hit the same target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and at least one
(1) of the projectiles or darts 34 must land in the center zone 17c
for the target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 to be considered cleared or
closed out.
[0043] In the preferred embodiments, when a player is playing by
redemption or in a redemption mode, they must clear all their
remaining targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 to force an overtime. The
player preferably gets to shoot one (1) projectile or dart 34 to
start and continue to shoot until they fail to clear or close out
one of the targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 or have cleared all their
remaining targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28. Players preferably can
not clear targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 that they already have
cleared or closed out to continue shooting and penalties, such a
adding a closed out target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 back onto the
playfield 14 or requiring the player to take a drink, may be
applied if the player hits a closed out target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26,
28. To clear one of the targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 in
redemption, the player preferably must hit the appropriate area of
the target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 for the difficulty level selected
or decided by the players. For example, the player may be required
to only hit the target 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 in beginner mode, hit
the middle zone 17b or the center zone 17c in the expert mode or
hit the center zone 17c in the professional mode. This arrangement
or convention is also only an illustrative preferred example and is
not meant to be limiting.
[0044] In an overtime mode, for each player that is in Overtime,
three (3) targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 are preferably activated
or put back into play on the playfield 14. For example, in a first
preferred overtime, the first, second and third targets 18, 20, 22
are activated, in a second preferred overtime, the fourth, fifth
and sixth targets 24, 26, 28 are activated and in a third preferred
overtime, the first, fourth and sixth targets 18, 24, 28 are
activated. Once certain of the targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 are
activated in overtime, play resumes as if a new game has just begun
with each player using the same difficulty rules selected for the
original game. Players are preferably still offered a Redemption
chance or opportunity to advance to the next Overtime when their
opponent clears all of the appropriate targets 18, 20, 22, 24, 26,
28. In the preferred embodiments, a maximum of three (3) Overtimes
are played and the game is then declared a draw between all
remaining players. This arrangement or convention is also meant as
an illustrative preferred example and is not meant to be
limiting.
[0045] In the preferred operation of the first and second preferred
embodiments of the electronic gaming system 10, 10', each game
played by the players and/or each player game requires payment.
Single player leaderboards may be employed and an auto timer may be
utilized to time-out games that extend beyond a predetermined time
frame or request additional payment to play beyond the
predetermined time frame. The touchscreen, interactive screen or
screen 30 may employ operator ad screens with custom images and
videos to display in an attract mode to attract users to play the
games. The touchscreen or screen 30 may also display drinking
messages, which may be turned off at the discretion of the players
or a controller. The touchscreen or screen 30 may also display
drink specials, schedules, videos, sporting events or nearly any
visual image that is desired by the players and/or controller.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1-8 and, specifically, FIG. 8, any of the
gaming systems 10, 10', 10'' of the first, second and third
preferred embodiments may be adapted to utilize a display area 60
for displaying or presenting information about the game to the
players and a control area 62 to facilitate set-up of the preferred
game. The display area 60 and the control area 62 may replace the
screen or touchscreen 30, 30' of the first and second preferred
embodiments and may be adapted for use with the generally manual
gaming system 10'' of the third preferred embodiment. The display
area 60 preferably displays information related to the game, such
as the number of players playing the game, scores for the players,
the areas of the playfield 14, 14', 14'' that the players have hit
or closed out, the player who currently has the board or is
progressing through their round and other related information. The
display area 60 may be comprised of light emitting diodes ("LED")
and printed labels that are associated with the LED's to visually
provide game information to the players. The preferred control area
62 is preferably comprised of buttons or user actuable switches
that are used by the players to set-up the games, select games,
skip rounds and otherwise to assist players in providing
information to the systems 10, 10', 10'' and/or the display area 60
regarding game play. For example, the control area 62 may include
buttons to select the number of players, switches to manually keep
score of the game, a button to skip a player's turn when they miss
the playfield 14, 14', 14'' with their projectiles or darts 34,
34', 34'' to skip to the next player, a button to reset the display
area 62 or the game and other like controls that assist the player
in communication and operation of the preferred systems 10, 10',
10''.
[0047] The preferred gaming system 10, 10', 10'' is generally
employed in a bar and/ or tavern. The game may be targeted to areas
where alcoholic beverages are served, but may also be employed for
game play utilizing non-alcoholic beverages. The location of set-up
of the preferred gaming system 10, 10', 10'' is not limiting and
the gaming systems 10, 10', 10'' may be set-up in nearly any
location that has sufficient room or space for the gaming systems
10, 10', 10'' and accommodates normal operating conditions of the
gaming systems 10, 10', 10''.
[0048] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
changes could be made to the embodiments described above without
departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is
understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the
particular embodiments disclosed, but is intended to cover
modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention
as defined by the present disclosure.
* * * * *