Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080214263 | Method and apparatus for bonus round play - Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling a player to take a tour of a secondary game at a game machine. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes offering to enable entry of a player into a bonus round of a game machine in exchange for a fee, receiving the fee from the player, and enabling entry of the player into the bonus round. The method further includes receiving an indication of at least one player selection during the bonus round, and determining an outcome based on the at least one player selection. In other embodiments, the method includes providing a prize to the player based on the outcome. | 09-04-2008 |
20080272541 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A BONUS TO A PLAYER - A method, system, device and computer readable medium are described, in which a wagering game and a secondary game may be provided at a gaming device, wherein the secondary game comprises detecting an occurrence of a trigger; determining, responsive to the trigger, a player number based on a first criterion; determining, responsive to the trigger, a match number based on a second criterion; and determining if the match number meets a third criterion with respect to the player number. | 11-06-2008 |
20080274792 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING GAMING SESSIONS VIA A SESSION TICKET - In accordance with one or more embodiments, a session comprising a plurality of game plays of a wagering game may be initiated via a session ticket. A session ticket may comprise, for example, a paper substrate, a plastic card or information stored electronically (e.g., in a wireless handheld device). In one embodiment, a casino property may manage a promotion by providing session tickets to players free of charge (e.g., to an audience of a show, to encourage the audience to gamble on the casino floor at the end of the show). In one embodiment, a session ticket may be sold as part of a Value Package that includes one or more gambling items (e.g., a session ticket for a session) and one or more non-gambling items (e.g., a voucher to a casino restaurant or spa and a reservation for a hotel room). | 11-06-2008 |
20090082081 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONDUCTING LOTTERY GAMES - Described are methods, systems and apparatus for enabling a lottery player to receive information corresponding to a lottery outcome in association with receipt of an incoming communication. In an implementation, the method includes receiving an indication of an incoming communication, determining a lottery entry outcome, and determining an audible output based on the lottery entry outcome and on the indication of the incoming communication. The method also includes outputting the audible output via a player device to indicate both the incoming communication and the lottery entry outcome. | 03-26-2009 |
20090082095 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISPLAYING GAMING CONTENT - A method comprises receiving an indication of a triggering event at a gaming device, determining a gaming content associated with the gaming device, identifying a public display on which is displayed non-gaming media content, and outputting the gaming content on the public display wherein the gaming content supersedes at least a portion of the non-gaming media content. | 03-26-2009 |
20090131141 | CONTENT DETERMINATIVE GAME SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR KENO AND LOTTERY GAMES - Methods, systems and apparatus are described for producing wagering products and conducting wagering games. In one embodiment, a method for producing a lottery product comprises producing a play slip that includes an indication of at least one event that potentially occurs in a corresponding content (e.g., audio/video content) component of the lottery product. In one embodiment, a unit of the corresponding content is provided to a player along with a play slip. | 05-21-2009 |
20090137312 | SELECTIVE RESET FOR GAMING DEVICE - A gaming device offers the illusion of control to a player by selectively offering the player the opportunity to request that the gaming device reset itself. Criteria may be imposed about which players may make the request and how frequently a player may make such requests. Techniques for making the reset request vary by embodiment. Once the gaming device receives the request, the gaming device may, depending on embodiment, undergo a number of different reset processes that fall along a continuum from merely informing the player that the gaming device has been reset (e.g., a faux-reset) to a full operating system reboot with or without power interruption to components of the gaming device. In at least one embodiment, any credit balance associated with the player is preserved through the reset procedure. | 05-28-2009 |
20090144785 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR BROADCASTING MODIFIED LIVE MEDIA - Methods and systems are presented for broadcasting a modified live media feed of an event. In an embodiment, the method includes receiving a live media feed at a broadcast computer from one or more recording devices, wherein the live media feed includes real time occurrences of a live event. The live media feed is broadcast after a predetermined delay, and the method includes identifying, during monitoring of the live event, a portion of the live event that is suitable for application of a modification effect. The process also includes the broadcast computer applying the modification effect to a portion of the live media feed corresponding to the identified portion of the live event, and then broadcasting the modified live media feed. | 06-04-2009 |
20090189349 | CONDITIONAL APPLICATION OF HIT CARD - Methods, devices, systems and computer readable media are described, comprising determining an intermediate player hand in a card game; offering to the player an option to receive a conditional hit card in exchange for resolving the hand according to a second pay table; if the player accepts the offer, dealing a conditional hit card face down to the player; determining a final dealer hand; and if the final dealer hand beats the intermediate player hand, turning the conditional hit card face up and adding the card to the intermediate player hand, thereby determining a final player hand; awarding a payout to the player according to the reduced pay table if the final player hand beats the final dealer hand. | 07-30-2009 |
20090231441 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUGGESTING META-INFORMATION TO A CAMERA USER - According to one embodiment of the invention, a camera captures an image. The image is transmitted to a server for image recognition processing. The camera receives information from the server, including an indication of information to suggest to a user for meta-tagging the image. The suggested information may be based, for example, on a comparison of the image with meta-information stored by the server and/or a database of stored images. The camera asks the user if the user would like to meta-tag the image with the information. Optionally, the camera receives an indication from the user that the user would like to meta-tag the image with the suggested information, and the camera meta-tags the image with the information. | 09-17-2009 |
20090262137 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRESENTING PREDICTION IN A BROADCAST - Methods and systems are presented for presenting prediction in a broadcast. In an embodiment, the method includes receiving, by a prediction graphic generator, at least one of telemetry data, situational data, or historical data. The prediction graphic generator then determines a prediction based on at least two of the telemetry data, the situational data, or the historical data, and generates a prediction overlay based on the prediction. The prediction overlay is output to a broadcast computer, where it is combined with a live broadcast to generate an enhanced broadcast. The broadcast computer then broadcasts the enhanced broadcast. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264176 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING MULTI-ROUND LOTTERY PLAY - Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for facilitating play of multi-round lottery games. In one embodiment, a player may be allowed to change one or more of various aspects of a wager in a multi-round lottery game. | 10-22-2009 |
20090287579 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR ENHANCING AND UTILIZING OWED-VALUE ACCOUNTS - Systems, methods, and apparatus for enhancing and utilizing owed-value accounts are provided. | 11-19-2009 |
20090291736 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDITIONAL PAYOUTS IN A GAMING DEVICE - A gaming device incentivizes additional game play by combining payouts with conditional payouts. During game play, players are informed of the conditions, which must be satisfied so as to vest the conditional payouts. Subsequent game play is monitored to see if the player has satisfied the conditions. If the player has satisfied the conditions, then the conditional payout vests. If the condition is not met, then the conditional payout terminates. | 11-26-2009 |
20090305765 | PROVIDING AND REDEEMING PARTIAL WAGERING GAME OUTCOMES - Described are methods, computer readable media and systems related to wagering games, and in particular those that concern providing and redeeming partial game outcomes. A method according to an embodiment includes receiving a completion request from a player who is operating a gaming device to complete at least one partial game outcome. The partial game outcome was previously provided to the player, who used a first device that is different than the gaming device. The method includes determining that the player is entitled to a complete game outcome, displaying the partial game outcome on the gaming device, determining the complete game outcome, and then displaying the complete game outcome. | 12-10-2009 |
20090312093 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTHENTICATING DATA RELATING TO USAGE OF A GAMING DEVICE - Methods and apparatus for managing and authenticating usage of features of gaming devices is presented. The methods include tracking and/or accumulating usage data relating to gaming device features, determining an authentication code based on the usage data, outputting the authentication code to an operator for transmission to an interested party, and verifying the authentication code. The present invention allows regulatory agencies and manufacturers of gaming devices to reliably verify the usage of individual features of gaming devices without having to rely upon a casino to report the usage data. | 12-17-2009 |
20100004051 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERSONALIZING PLAYING CARDS AT A TABLE GAME - A method comprises receiving a request for at least one personalized card from a player, identifying at least one of a rank, a color, and a suit for the at least one personalized card, identifying at least one of a value change and a rule change associated with the at least one personalized card, providing an indication of at least one personalized card and at least one of a value change and a rule change associated with the at least one personalized card, enabling at least one game play in accordance with the at least one of a value change and a rule change, and applying the at least one of a value change and a rule change associated with the at least one personalized card upon the occurrence of the at least one personalized card. | 01-07-2010 |
20100099500 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GAMING DONGLES - Some embodiments are associated with gaming dongles. Some gaming dongles may store value that is utilized to play a video game and/or to participate in a video game tournament. Some gaming dongles may determine and/or store gaming signatures, biometric information, and/or Global Positioning System (GPS) information. Some gaming dongles may be removably coupled. Some gaming dongles may have two or more portions that may be substantially irreversibly separated, such as by snapping-off one portion from the other. | 04-22-2010 |
20100120487 | SELECTION OF MULTIPLE ROULETTE WHEELS - A roulette game allows players to place wagers across multiple roulette wheels. The player designates the amount of the wager, the particular outcomes on which the wager is contingent, and how many tables are covered by the wager. A control system automatically selects one or more tables across which the wager is based. The selection may be based on location of the player relative to the tables, impending outcomes from the tables, or other criteria as desired. | 05-13-2010 |
20100148442 | CUSTOMIZABLE DISPLAY OF ROULETTE BETTING LAYOUT - A roulette table allows players to make customized betting selections and customize the layout of the betting options that appear on the player station of the roulette table. In particularly contemplated embodiments, players may add, delete, or modify the appearance of betting options through a user interface so that the players may more readily indicate desired wagers. This functionality may not only speed up game play, but also make the betting layout more intuitive for each user resulting in increased attendance of roulette games. | 06-17-2010 |
20100203942 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A LOTTERY WINNER BASED ON A PLURALITY OF LOTTERY TICKETS - In accordance with some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, a method, an apparatus and a computer readable medium are provided for receiving a request from at least one lottery player to purchase at least one lottery ticket comprising a plurality of symbols, issuing the at least one lottery ticket to the lottery player, associating the at least one lottery ticket with a lottery team formed of at least one other lottery player associated with at least one other lottery ticket associated with the lottery team, determining an occurrence of a qualifying winning event based on the plurality of symbols of all of the lottery tickets associated with the lottery team, and determining a payout for the lottery team based upon the occurrence of the qualifying event. | 08-12-2010 |
20100210350 | PROBLEM GAMBLING DETECTION IN TABLETOP GAMES - A gaming establishment may determine the existence of problem gamblers within its halls by monitoring player behavior with one or more sensors from an array of sensors. The player's behavior is then compared to normal behavior and/or problem gambling behavior to determine if the player is potentially a problem gambler. Behavior patterns that may be tracked are player movement, player betting patterns, facial expressions, physical clues, nonverbal clues, and the like. | 08-19-2010 |
20100244380 | BLACKJACK TEAM PLAY - A blackjack game is modified to include an auxiliary wager that is based on whether any of the hands at the blackjack table will beat the dealer's hand. A player may thus place an auxiliary wager on whether his hand or a second player's hand will beat the dealer. Alternate expressions of the concept allow variations in which player's hand or how many hands may be included in the comparison. | 09-30-2010 |
20100275267 | SOCIAL AND RETAIL HOTSPOTS - Systems, methods, and apparatus for social and retail hotspots are provided. | 10-28-2010 |
20100279765 | PROBLEM GAMBLING DETECTION IN TABLETOP GAMES - A gaming establishment may determine the existence of problem gamblers within its halls by monitoring player behavior with one or more sensors from an array of sensors. The player's behavior is then compared to normal behavior and/or problem gambling behavior to determine if the player is potentially a problem gambler. Behavior patterns that may be tracked are player movement, player betting patterns, facial expressions, physical clues, nonverbal clues, and the like. | 11-04-2010 |
20100285869 | GAMEPLAY-ALTERING PORTABLE WAGERING MEDIA - Portable wagering media may be utilized to alter play of wagering games. | 11-11-2010 |
20100304841 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PORTABLE WAGERING MEDIUMS - Some embodiments are associated with wagering game devices and/or portable wagering mediums. Some portable wagering mediums are capable of outputting various indications related to one or more potential or current statuses of the portable wagering mediums. Some wagering game devices are operable to (i) determine a status of a portable wagering medium and (ii) cause, based on the determining, an outputting of an indication of the status via an output device coupled to the portable wagering medium. In some embodiments, a central server or other device conducts the determining of the status and/or the causing of the outputting. The status of a portable wagering medium may be based on one or more of many different factors or metrics. | 12-02-2010 |
20110124418 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GAMING DONGLES - Some embodiments are associated with gaming dongles. Some gaming dongles may store value that is utilized to play a video game and/or to participate in a video game tournament. Some gaming dongles may determine and/or store gaming signatures, biometric information, and/or Global Positioning System (GPS) information. Some gaming dongles may be removably coupled. Some gaming dongles may have two or more portions that may be substantially irreversibly separated, such as by snapping-off one portion from the other. | 05-26-2011 |
20110128414 | Method and apparatus for automatically capturing and managing images - According to one embodiment of the invention, a camera determines whether to acquire an image (e.g., automatically), determines whether to store the acquired image, and determines how to store the acquired image. | 06-02-2011 |
20110130188 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR FACILITATING PLAY AT A GAMING DEVICE BY MEANS OF THIRD PARTY OFFERS - In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, an offer is presented to a player (e.g., at a gaming device or a table game in a casino). The offer defines a benefit to be provided in exchange for the player's commitment to an obligation defined by the offer. The offer may be provided once it is determined that a condition of a gaming device satisfies a predetermined criterion. The benefit defined by the offer may be provided to the player and/or to one or more associated persons designated by the player. | 06-02-2011 |
20110195791 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING DIRECTIVES FOR PERSONNEL - A system and method include determining a recipient of an offer; and determining an offer which includes an activity and a benefit. The system and method further include transmitting, to a representative, instructions to provide the offer to the recipient. The system and method further include determining whether the recipient has performed the activity, and if so providing the benefit to the recipient. | 08-11-2011 |
20110212765 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLAYER COMMUNICATION - Systems and methods are provided for monitoring gaming activities of a player at a gaming device. It is determined, based on the gaming activities, whether to initiate communication between the player and an individual. Communication is enabled between the player and the individual. | 09-01-2011 |
20110256936 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING PLAY OF A VIDEO GAME VIA A WEB SITE - A method and system for operating a video game or video game tournament (e.g., via a Web site) is disclosed. In accordance with the method and system a bonus is provided to a player playing the video game or participating in the video game tournament. In some embodiments a bonus is provided to the player if a rating associated with the player is worse than a threshold rating. In some embodiments a bonus is provided to the player if the occurrence of at least one predetermined condition is identified. Such a condition may be, for example, a condition that indicates the player will soon cease playing the video game or participating in the tournament. | 10-20-2011 |
20110270713 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR FACILITATING THE PROVISION OF OPINIONS TO A SHOPPER FROM A PANEL OF PEERS - In accordance with one or more embodiments, a system determines an image, selects a panel of participants, and outputs the image to each of the participants of the panel of participants. Responses may be collected from the participants and an indication of the results may be output to a shopper. | 11-03-2011 |
20110280551 | Unintended Video Recording Detection in a Video Recording Device - Techniques are provided for determining occurrence of an unintended video recording in a device. One or more features of a video recording are analyzed in the video recording device to determine whether at least a portion of the video recording is unintended. If one or more portions are determined to be unintended, one or more actions are initiated in the video recording device. | 11-17-2011 |
20120077574 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A COMPLIMENTARY SERVICE TO A PLAYER - Systems and methods are provided for providing a service to a player using a player device. A indication of a player identifier which corresponds to a player of a gaming device is received. A player device is provided to the player. A service to provide the player is determined based on a gaming activity of the player, and the service is then provided to the player using the player device. | 03-29-2012 |
20120102552 | USING AN IMAGE TO PROVIDE CREDENTIALS FOR SERVICE ACCESS - A method for providing at least one credential to access a service includes receiving an image from a camera that is included in a user device that also includes a processor and a communications device. The image is analyzed using an optical character recognition engine coupled to the processor. The analyzing the image includes determining that the image includes potential credential information that includes at least one credential including at least one character string. The at least one credential from the potential credential information is provided, using the communications device, to a service in order to access the service. In an embodiment, the user device may include a limited input device that is free of a physical keyboard having alphanumeric characters, and the determination and use of the at least one credential from the image simplifies the accessing of the service by minimizing or eliminating the need to use the limited input device. | 04-26-2012 |
20120105572 | AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING A VIDEO-CAPTURE DEVICE - A video-capture device is configured to determine when it is disposed on a supporting surface and, in response, automatically adjust one or more device settings to optimize the device settings for automatic mode. In various embodiments, a sensor, such as a grip sensor, an inertial sensor, or a pressure sensor included in the video-capture device, or an optical flow algorithm that quantifies visible shake may be used to detect when the video-capture device is disposed on the supporting surface. Automatically adjusting the settings of the video-capture device when the device is resting on a supporting surface provides a simpler and more seamless user experience and also improves the overall quality of video content being captured when the device is in automatic mode. | 05-03-2012 |
20120108322 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BONUS ROUND PLAY - Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling a player to take a tour of a secondary game at a game machine. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes offering to enable entry of a player into a bonus round of a game machine in exchange for a fee, receiving the fee from the player, and enabling entry of the player into the bonus round. The method further includes receiving an indication of at least one player selection during the bonus round, and determining an outcome based on the at least one player selection. In other embodiments, the method includes providing a prize to the player based on the outcome. | 05-03-2012 |
20120172114 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDITIONAL PAYOUTS IN A GAMING DEVICE - A gaming device incentivizes additional game play by combining payouts with conditional payouts. During game play, players are informed of the conditions, which must be satisfied so as to vest the conditional payouts. Subsequent game play is monitored to see if the player has satisfied the conditions. If the player has satisfied the conditions, then the conditional payout vests. If the condition is not met, then the conditional payout terminates. | 07-05-2012 |
20120196667 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OUTPUTTING OUTCOMES OF A GAMING DEVICE - In accordance with one or more embodiments, a method for outputting an outcome for a game of a gaming device is presented, wherein the method comprises first outputting an apparent outcome for the game and then outputting an actual outcome for the game. In one or more embodiments, a benefit corresponding to the apparent outcome may not be provided to the player playing the gaming device. For example, a hopper may be prevented from dispensing a payout associated with the apparent outcome. In accordance with one or more embodiments, a character (e.g., an animated character) may be displayed as changing the apparent outcome into the actual outcome. | 08-02-2012 |
20120242844 | AUTOMATIC CAPTURE AND MANAGEMENT OF IMAGES - According to one embodiment of the invention, a camera determines whether to acquire an image (e.g., automatically), determines whether to store the acquired image, and determines how to store the acquired image. | 09-27-2012 |
20120264499 | CONTENT DETERMINATIVE GAME SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR KENO AND LOTTERY GAMES - Methods, systems and apparatus are described for producing wagering products and conducting wagering games. In one embodiment, a method for producing a lottery product comprises producing a play slip that includes an indication of at least one event that potentially occurs in a corresponding content (e.g., audio/video content) component of the lottery product. In one embodiment, a unit of the corresponding content is provided to a player along with a play slip. | 10-18-2012 |
20120270639 | GAMING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING AND REDEEMING PARTIAL WAGERING GAME OUTCOMES - Methods, computer readable media and systems related to wagering games, and in particular those that concern providing and redeeming partial game outcomes. One example method includes receiving a completion request from a player who is operating a gaming device to complete at least one partial game outcome. The partial game outcome was previously provided to the player, who used a first device that is different than the gaming device. This example method includes determining that the player is entitled to a complete game outcome, displaying the partial game outcome on the gaming device, determining the complete game outcome, and then displaying the complete game outcome. | 10-25-2012 |
20130005445 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTHENTICATING DATA RELATING TO PARTICIPATION IN AN ELECTRONIC GAME - Methods and apparatus for managing and authenticating usage of features of gaming devices is presented. The methods include tracking and/or accumulating usage data relating to gaming device features, determining an authentication code based on the usage data, outputting the authentication code to an operator for transmission to an interested party, and verifying the authentication code. The present invention allows regulatory agencies and manufacturers of gaming devices to reliably verify the usage of individual features of gaming devices without having to rely upon a casino to report the usage data. | 01-03-2013 |
20130029761 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OUTPUTTING A MESSAGE AT A GAME MACHINE - The invention allows a casino, or other entity, via a game machine, to provide relevant information at appropriate times, and/or in response to appropriate events, to players using the game machine. A dynamic and flexible system adapted to interact with players on an individual basis by aiding in the management, determination, distribution, and delivery of promotional, inspirational, instructive, informational, communicative, incentive, and other types of messages, is provided. Various methods are provided to ensure that receiving messages at a game machine enhances a player's overall gaming experience by selectively outputting helpful and desirable messages to players while minimizing interference with the players' gaming and to avoid overwhelming players with unsolicited, unwanted, and/or irrelevant messages. | 01-31-2013 |
20130079120 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OUTPUTTING A MESSAGE AT A GAME MACHINE - The invention allows a casino, or other entity, via a game machine, to provide relevant information at appropriate times, and/or in response to appropriate events, to players using the game machine. A dynamic and flexible system adapted to interact with players on an individual basis by aiding in the management, determination, distribution, and delivery of promotional, inspirational, instructive, informational, communicative, incentive, and other types of messages, is provided. Various methods are provided to ensure that receiving messages at a game machine enhances a player's overall gaming experience by selectively outputting helpful and desirable messages to players while minimizing interference with the players' gaming and to avoid overwhelming players with unsolicited, unwanted, and/or irrelevant messages. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079134 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OUTPUTTING A MESSAGE AT A GAME MACHINE - The invention allows a casino, or other entity, via a game machine, to provide relevant information at appropriate times, and/or in response to appropriate events, to players using the game machine. A dynamic and flexible system adapted to interact with players on an individual basis by aiding in the management, determination, distribution, and delivery of promotional, inspirational, instructive, informational, communicative, incentive, and other types of messages, is provided. Various methods are provided to ensure that receiving messages at a game machine enhances a player's overall gaming experience by selectively outputting helpful and desirable messages to players while minimizing interference with the players' gaming and to avoid overwhelming players with unsolicited, unwanted, and/or irrelevant messages. | 03-28-2013 |
20130116041 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A COMPLIMENTARY SERVICE TO A PLAYER - Systems and methods are provided for providing a service to a player using a player device. A indication of a player identifier which corresponds to a player of a gaming device is received. A player device is provided to the player. A service to provide the player is determined based on a gaming activity of the player, and the service is then provided to the player using the player device. | 05-09-2013 |
20130150145 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BONUS ROUND PLAY - Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling a player to take a tour of a secondary game at a game machine. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes offering to enable entry of a player into a bonus round of a game machine in exchange for a fee, receiving the fee from the player, and enabling entry of the player into the bonus round. The method further includes receiving an indication of at least one player selection during the bonus round, and determining an outcome based on the at least one player selection. In other embodiments, the method includes providing a prize to the player based on the outcome. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150153 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BONUS ROUND PLAY - Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling a player to take a tour of a secondary game at a game machine. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes offering to enable entry of a player into a bonus round of a game machine in exchange for a fee, receiving the fee from the player, and enabling entry of the player into the bonus round. The method further includes receiving an indication of at least one player selection during the bonus round, and determining an outcome based on the at least one player selection. In other embodiments, the method includes providing a prize to the player based on the outcome. | 06-13-2013 |
20130159174 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR ENHANCING AND UTILIZING OWED-VALUE ACCOUNTS - Systems, methods, and apparatus for enhancing and utilizing owed-value accounts are provided, including, in accordance with some embodiments, automatically utilizing the remaining balance of an owed-value account to purchase a product or service on behalf of the owner of the owed-value account. | 06-20-2013 |
20130190076 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PORTABLE WAGERING MEDIUMS - Some embodiments are associated with wagering game devices and/or portable wagering mediums. Some portable wagering mediums are capable of outputting various indications related to one or more potential or current statuses of the portable wagering mediums. Some wagering game devices are operable to (i) determine a status of a portable wagering medium and (ii) cause, based on the determining, an outputting of an indication of the status via an output device coupled to the portable wagering medium. In some embodiments, a central server or other device conducts the determining of the status and/or the causing of the outputting. The status of a portable wagering medium may be based on one or more of many different factors or metrics. | 07-25-2013 |
20130225274 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES AT A GAMING MACHINE - In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing an auxiliary unit adapted to allow a gaming machine to be retrofitted to provide communications services; and (2) retrofitting a non-communications-enabled gaming machine with the auxiliary unit so that the non-communications enabled gaming machine is adapted to provide communications services based on game play at the non-communications-enabled gaming machine. Numerous other aspects are provided. | 08-29-2013 |
20130237319 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISPLAYING GAMING CONTENT - A method comprises receiving an indication of a triggering event at a gaming device, determining a gaming content associated with the gaming device, identifying a public display on which is displayed non-gaming media content, and outputting the gaming content on the public display wherein the gaming content supersedes at least a portion of the non-gaming media content. | 09-12-2013 |
20130252716 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES AT A GAMING MACHINE - In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing an auxiliary unit adapted to allow a gaming machine to be retrofitted to provide communications services; and (2) retrofitting a non-communications-enabled gaming machine with the auxiliary unit so that the non-communications enabled gaming machine is adapted to provide communications services based on game play at the non-communications-enabled gaming machine. Numerous other aspects are provided. | 09-26-2013 |
20130252717 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISPLAYING GAMING CONTENT - A method comprises receiving an indication of a triggering event at a gaming device, determining a gaming content associated with the gaming device, identifying a public display on which is displayed non-gaming media content, and outputting the gaming content on the public display wherein the gaming content supersedes at least a portion of the non-gaming media content. | 09-26-2013 |
20130267308 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A BONUS TO A PLAYER BASED ON A CREDIT BALANCE - An apparatus and method allow a value of a credit balance on a gaming device to be determined. if the value is not less than a predetermined threshold, a benefit is provided to the player of the gaming device. In various embodiments, the benefit may be, e.g., an increase in the player's credit balance. | 10-10-2013 |
20130268346 | SYSTEM TO PROVIDE PRICE ADJUSTMENTS BASED ON INDICATED PRODUCT INTEREST - A system to provide price adjustments based on indicated product interest includes reception of an indication from a customer of interest in a first product, reception of an indication from a customer of interest in a second product, determination of a price adjustment for the second product based on the indication of interest in the first product, and transmission of the price adjustment to the customer. By virtue of the foregoing features, a retailer may be willing to provide a price adjustment for the second product which would otherwise not be provided. Moreover, such a price adjustment may incent the customer to purchase the second product in a case that the second product would not otherwise be purchased, thereby potentially increasing a total profit received by the retailer. | 10-10-2013 |
20130288767 | CUSTOMIZABLE DISPLAY OF ROULETTE BETTING LAYOUT - A roulette table allows players to make customized betting selections and customize the layout of the betting options that appear on the player station of the roulette table. In particularly contemplated embodiments, players may add, delete, or modify the appearance of betting options through a user interface so that the players may more readily indicate desired wagers. This functionality may not only speed up game play, but also make the betting layout more intuitive for each user resulting in increased attendance of roulette games. | 10-31-2013 |
20130296032 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A BONUS TO A PLAYER BASED ON A CREDIT BALANCE - An apparatus and method allow a value of a credit balance on a gaming device to be determined. If the value is not less than a predetermined threshold, a benefit is provided to the player of the gaming device. In various embodiments, the benefit may be, e.g., an increase in the player's credit balance. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296033 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A BONUS TO A PLAYER BASED ON A CREDIT BALANCE - An apparatus and method allow a value of a credit balance on a gaming device to be determined. If the value is not less than a predetermined threshold, a benefit is provided to the player of the gaming device. In various embodiments, the benefit may be, e.g., an increase in the player's credit balance. | 11-07-2013 |
20130314566 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUGGESTING INFORMATION FOR A PHOTO TO A USER ASSOCIATED WITH THE PHOTO - According to one embodiment, systems, methods and computer-readable media provide for receiving, from a user, a first photo image of a first person, identifying a person in the first photo image and accessing a database comprising at least one stored image template (e.g., each stored image template comprising data representing a face of a person and name tag information associated to said person's name). A comparison of the first photo image to the at least one stored image template may then be performed and it may be determined, as a result of the comparing, that the first photo image includes a person's face matching an image template already stored in the database. A name associated with the matching image template may then be output to the user as a suggestion for a tag to associate with the first photo image. | 11-28-2013 |
20130316802 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDITIONAL PAYOUTS IN A GAMING DEVICE - A gaming device incentivizes additional game play by combining payouts with conditional payouts. During game play, players are informed of the conditions, which must be satisfied so as to vest the conditional payouts. Subsequent game play is monitored to see if the player has satisfied the conditions. If the player has satisfied the conditions, then the conditional payout vests. If the condition is not met, then the conditional payout terminates. | 11-28-2013 |
20130316806 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDITIONAL PAYOUTS IN A GAMING DEVICE - A gaming device incentivizes additional game play by combining payouts with conditional payouts. During game play, players are informed of the conditions, which must be satisfied so as to vest the conditional payouts. Subsequent game play is monitored to see if the player has satisfied the conditions. If the player has satisfied the conditions, then the conditional payout vests. If the condition is not met, then the conditional payout terminates. | 11-28-2013 |
20140012755 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGING SUBSCRIPTIONS - A subscription system allows a customer to establish a subscription to a product with one or more retailers (e.g., by establishing the subscription through a controller or central system). In one embodiment, a subscription may be established after receiving information that identifies a product. Terms of a subscription for the product are established, such as a frequency and a duration of the subscription. | 01-09-2014 |
20140018176 | GAMING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING AND REDEEMING PARTIAL WAGERING GAME OUTCOMES - Methods, computer readable media and systems related to wagering games, and in particular those that concern providing and redeeming partial game outcomes. One example method includes receiving a completion request from a player who is operating a gaming device to complete at least one partial game outcome. The partial game outcome was previously provided to the player, who used a first device that is different than the gaming device. This example method includes determining that the player is entitled to a complete game outcome, displaying the partial game outcome on the gaming device, determining the complete game outcome, and then displaying the complete game outcome. | 01-16-2014 |
20140031106 | GAMING SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH GAME PLAY MODIFICATIONS - Methods and apparatus are described for offering a benefit to a player of a first electronic game device. In an embodiment, the method includes determining if a player of a first electronic game device qualifies to receive at least one benefit associated with an award value, and then outputting an offer to provide the at least one benefit. In some embodiments, the offer requires use of a second electronic game device. The method may also include receiving a request for the benefit at the second electronic game device, and then providing at least one benefit to the player. In some embodiments, the offer includes such benefits as additional game play, one or more bonus-round game outcomes, a monetary payout, a game play modification, additional comp points, loss insurance, a multimedia option, and acquisition of at least one unit of media content. | 01-30-2014 |
20140040002 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING TRANSFERABLE ITEM PRICES - Systems and methods are provided to associate a transferable item price with a first consumer and to determine that a second consumer is entitled to purchase an item in exchange for payment of an amount based on the transferable item price. In one embodiment, the first consumer arranges to purchase an item at a first price. The merchant transmits a transferable item price code to the first consumer. The first consumer sends the transferable item price code to the second consumer, such as by including the transferable item price code in an e-mail message. The second consumer transmits the transferable item price code to the merchant to establish that he or she is entitled to purchase the item at the first price. | 02-06-2014 |
20140045584 | GAMEPLAY-ALTERING PORTABLE WAGERING MEDIA - Portable wagering media may be utilized to alter play of wagering games. | 02-13-2014 |
20140073415 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PORTABLE WAGERING MEDIUMS - Some embodiments are associated with wagering game devices and/or portable wagering mediums. Some portable wagering mediums are capable of outputting various indications related to one or more potential or current statuses of the portable wagering mediums. Some wagering game devices are operable to (i) determine a status of a portable wagering medium and (ii) cause, based on the determining, an outputting of an indication of the status via an output device coupled to the portable wagering medium. In some embodiments, a central server or other device conducts the determining of the status and/or the causing of the outputting. The status of a portable wagering medium may be based on one or more of many different factors or metrics. | 03-13-2014 |
20140081730 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A BENEFIT DURING A TRANSACTION FOR USE DURING A LATER TRANSACTION - A method and apparatus for allowing a customer to purchase or otherwise receive a benefit during a first transaction that will be redeemed by the customer or provided to the customer at a later time or during a future transaction for the purchase, rental, lease, etc. of one or more products and/or services. The price to the customer for the benefit may be a monetary amount, a non-monetary amount, a commitment by the customer to complete or perform some obligation or qualifying action. The value of the benefit to the customer may be based on one or more aspects or characteristics of the first transaction. | 03-20-2014 |
20140094288 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A COMPLIMENTARY SERVICE TO A PLAYER - Systems and methods are provided for providing a service to a player using a player device. A indication of a player identifier which corresponds to a player of a gaming device is received. A player device is provided to the player. A service to provide the player is determined based on a gaming activity of the player, and the service is then provided to the player using the player device. | 04-03-2014 |
20140100033 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING DIRECTIVES FOR PERSONNEL - A system and method include determining a recipient of an offer; and determining an offer which includes an activity and a benefit. The system and method further include transmitting, to a representative, instructions to provide the offer to the recipient. The system and method further include determining whether the recipient has performed the activity, and if so providing the benefit to the recipient. | 04-10-2014 |
20140108186 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS WHEREIN A BUYER PURCHASES PRODUCTS IN A PLURALITY OF PRODUCT CATEGORIES - Systems and methods are provided wherein an indication of a plurality of product categories is received, each product category being associated with a plurality of products. For example, the indication of the plurality of product categories may be received from a buyer. Buyer offer information, including an indication of an offer amount associated with the plurality of product categories, is also received. A subset of the plurality of products is selected for each of the product categories, and an indication of the selected products is provided. The buyer's offer may then be evaluated. If the buyer's offer is accepted, the selected products may be provided to the buyer in exchange for payment of the offer amount. | 04-17-2014 |
20140256397 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONDUCTING LOTTERY GAMES - Described are methods, systems and apparatus for enabling a lottery player to receive information corresponding to a lottery outcome in association with receipt of an incoming communication. In an implementation, the method includes receiving an indication of an incoming communication, determining a lottery entry outcome, and determining an audible output based on the lottery entry outcome and on the indication of the incoming communication. The method also includes outputting the audible output via a player device to indicate both the incoming communication and the lottery entry outcome. | 09-11-2014 |
20140309018 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTHENTICATING DATA RELATING TO PARTICIPATION IN AN ELECTRONIC GAME - Methods and apparatus for managing and authenticating usage of features of gaming devices are presented. In accordance with some embodiments, the methods and apparatus may facilitate an offer engine for providing one or more offers to a user of the gaming device, wherein an offer comprises an offer for a payment to be made to the user in exchange for an action by the user, wherein the one or more offers are distinct from indications of awards the user may qualify for during play of a game playable via the gaming device. In one embodiment the methods and apparatus may provide for determining whether to adjust the first feature based on the measure of performance. | 10-16-2014 |
20140310082 | SYSTEM TO PROVIDE PRICE ADJUSTMENTS BASED ON INDICATED PRODUCT INTEREST - A system to provide price adjustments based on indicated product interest includes reception of an indication from a customer of interest in a first product, reception of an indication from a customer of interest in a second product, determination of a price adjustment for the second product based on the indication of interest in the first product, and transmission of the price adjustment to the customer. By virtue of the foregoing features, a retailer may be willing to provide a price adjustment for the second product which would otherwise not be provided. Moreover, such a price adjustment may incent the customer to purchase the second product in a case that the second product would not otherwise be purchased, thereby potentially increasing a total profit received by the retailer. | 10-16-2014 |
20150031441 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR GENERATING GAMNG DRAWING TICKETS AT A GAMING DEVICE - One embodiment of the gaming system disclosed herein enables a player to place at least one wager on at least one play of a wagering game, determines if a cash out request by the player occurs and in response to determining the occurrence of the cash out request by the player, if a credit meter balance associated with the player is at least equal to a designated value, enables the player to accept or reject an offer for the purchase of an entry into a gaming drawing at the designated value. If the player accepts the offer, the gaming system generates: (i) a gaming ticket confirming the entry into the gaming drawing, and (ii) a payout ticket. | 01-29-2015 |
20150057077 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BONUS ROUND PLAY - Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling a player to take a tour of a secondary game at a game machine. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes offering to enable entry of a player into a bonus round of a game machine in exchange for a fee, receiving the fee from the player, and enabling entry of the player into the bonus round. The method further includes receiving an indication of at least one player selection during the bonus round, and determining an outcome based on the at least one player selection. In other embodiments, the method includes providing a prize to the player based on the outcome. | 02-26-2015 |
20150066767 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGING SUBSCRIPTIONS - A subscription system allows a customer to establish a subscription to a product with one or more retailers (e.g., by establishing the subscription through a controller or central system). In one embodiment, a subscription may be established after receiving information that identifies a product. Terms of a subscription for the product are established, such as a frequency and a duration of the subscription. | 03-05-2015 |