Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080214300 | METHODS FOR ELECTRONIC DATA SECURITY AND PROGRAM AUTHENTICATION - Apparatus and methods for improving security and preventing tampering in a gaming system are described. In particular, the gaming system may comprise an authorization device that is configured to control a download of gaming data, such as an executable image for generating a game of chance, from a first gaming device to a second gaming device. For each download between two different devices, the authorization device may be operable to generate a unique encryption key pair utilized in the download and determine whether the downloaded data is authentic. The gaming device receiving the download of game data may be configured such that it doesn't utilize the game data until an approval is received from the authorization device. | 09-04-2008 |
20080234047 | Wager game license management in a game table - Novel wager gaming systems and methods for game license management utilizing a game table connected in a network at a gaming establishment are described. A game table having multiple player stations, equipped with gaming devices, performs as a local licensing server for the player stations at the game table. It may also function as a licensing server for player stations at other game tables and for gaming machines in the network. The wager game table may be connected to a central licensing server with operates in conjunction with the wager game table. A player station may also have certain license management components that may complement the operations of a game table license management module. The game table may perform certain local licensing and auditing functions for each player station with regard to wager game code and other game-related content and operational software. The management module may also monitor the usage of various types of wager game code, related content, and game-related software. These usage data are maintained by the game table and may be used for auditing purposes. | 09-25-2008 |
20080268957 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESS GAMING COMMUNICATIONS - A gaming communication apparatus may include a wireless transceiver and a controller operatively coupled to the wireless transceiver. The controller may be programmed to establish a bidirectional wireless communication link with a gaming apparatus when in proximity to the gaming apparatus, receive a voice command relating to a first gaming function, transmit first gaming function data to the gaming apparatus via the wireless transceiver, and receive data relating to a second gaming function from the gaming apparatus via the wireless transceiver. The gaming apparatus may include a second wireless transceiver and a second controller operatively coupled to the second wireless transceiver. The second controller may be programmed to receive the first gaming function data via the second wireless transceiver, execute a first gaming function based on the first gaming function data, and transmit the second gaming function data to the wireless communication device via the second wireless transceiver. | 10-30-2008 |
20090055204 | REAL-TIME PLAYER TRACKING - Some implementations of the invention provide methods, devices and systems for acquiring patron data in real time. A plurality of networked cameras may be used to acquire information regarding casino patrons. The cameras may include “smart cameras” having an integrated machine vision system. The real-time information may be used to populate one or more databases of a player loyalty program. Patron information may also be used to determine trends associated with patron demographics, with levels of a player loyalty program, etc. Some implementations of the invention involve monitoring patron event data and determining when predetermined events of interest occur. When a defined event occurs, patron data relating to the associated patron may be monitored, analyzed and used to populate one or more player loyalty databases. In some implementations, patron data acquired prior to the time of the defined event may also be analyzed and used. | 02-26-2009 |
20090055205 | MULTIMEDIA PLAYER TRACKING INFRASTRUCTURE - Some implementations of the invention provide methods, devices and systems for acquiring patron data in real time. A plurality of networked cameras may be used to acquire information regarding casino patrons. The cameras may include “smart cameras” having an integrated machine vision system. The real-time information may be used to populate one or more databases of a player loyalty program. Patron information may also be used to determine trends associated with patron demographics, with levels of a player loyalty program, etc. Some implementations of the invention involve monitoring patron event data and determining when predetermined events of interest occur. When a defined event occurs, patron data relating to the associated patron may be monitored, analyzed and used to populate one or more player loyalty databases. In some implementations, patron data acquired prior to the time of the defined event may also be analyzed and used. | 02-26-2009 |
20090069078 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR GAMING AND BRAND ASSOCIATION - A gaming system includes: (i) a base wagering game requiring a wager to made by a player; (ii) at least one winning outcome for the base wagering game; (iii) a paytable for the at least one winning outcome; a secondary award provided randomly to the player, the secondary party award provided by a secondary award provider and kept separate and apart from the paytable; and (iv) advertising for secondary award provider, the advertising provided in exchange for the provision of the secondary award. | 03-12-2009 |
20090131151 | Automated Techniques for Table Game State Tracking - Techniques are disclosed for facilitating game state tracking of gaming activity conducted at a gaming system including a first live casino gaming table. In at least one embodiment, the system may be operable to: control a wager-based game played at the first gaming table; enable a first active game session to be conducted at the first gaming table; automatically detect a first table game state change event for triggering a change of state of the first active game session; and automatically update the state of the first game session using at least a portion of information relating to the first table game state change event. According to specific embodiments, the first table game state change event may include (or may correspond to) at least of the following events: an event relating to a first player's physical gestures or movements; an event relating to a first casino employee's physical gestures or movements; an event relating to the first player's verbal instructions; an event relating to a casino employee's verbal instructions; and/or an event relating to wagering activity which occurs outside of officially designated wagering zones at the gaming table. In at least one embodiment, the first table game state change event may be analyzed and/or interpreted with respect to selected criteria, and the state of the first game session may be automatically advanced (and/or updated) in response to the analysis and/or interpretation of the first table game state change event. | 05-21-2009 |
20090143141 | Intelligent Multiplayer Gaming System With Multi-Touch Display - Various techniques are disclosed for facilitating gesture-based interactions with intelligent multi-player electronic gaming systems which include a multi-user, multi-touch input display surface capable of concurrently supporting contact-based and/or non-contact-based gestures performed by one or more users at or near the input display surface. Gestures may include single touch, multi-touch, and/or near-touch gestures. Some gaming system embodiments may include automated hand tracking functionality for identifying and/or tracking the hands of users interacting with the display surface. In some gaming system embodiments, the multi-user, multi-touch input display surface may be implemented using a multi-layered display (MLD) display device which includes multiple layered display screens. Various types of MLD-related display techniques disclosed herein may be advantageously used for facilitating gesture-based user interactions with a MLD-based multi-user, multi-touch input display surface and/or for facilitating various types of activities conducted at the gaming system, including, for example, various types of game-related and/or wager-related activities. According to various embodiments, users interacting with the multi-user, multi-touch input display surface may convey game play instructions, wagering instructions, and/or other types of instructions to the gaming system by performing various types of gestures at or over the multi-user, multi-touch input display surface. In some embodiments, the gaming system may include gesture processing functionality for: detecting users' gestures, identifying the user who performed a detected gesture, recognizing the gesture, interpreting the gesture, mapping the gesture to one or more appropriate function(s), and/or initiating the function(s). In at least some embodiments, such gesture processing may take into account various external factors, conditions, and/or information which, for example, may facilitate proper and/or appropriate gesture recognition, gesture interpretation, and/or gesture-function mapping. | 06-04-2009 |
20090203433 | GAMING MACHINE INCLUDING REDO FEATURE - A wager manipulation feature for a wagering game is provided. The feature may be implemented after the player's wager is set but before game play takes place, after game play takes place or both simultaneously. If before game play, the feature enables the player to undo or nullify the wager, for example, if the player changes his or her mind or enters a wager incorrectly. If after game play, the feature provides a bonus to the player in which the player may nullify a bet after an unsuccessful outcome or increase the bet to enhance a favorable outcome. In any case, the redo feature can be accumulated in one embodiment and stored and/or restored on a gaming device ticket, player tracking card or promotion. | 08-13-2009 |
20090298576 | GAME PRODUCTION AND REGULATORY APPROVAL SYSTEMS - Methods and systems for creating, producing, and submitting new wager game packages for approval from regulatory bodies are described. With the increasing need for game providers/publishers to create more games due to factors in the gaming industry, such as the advent of server-based gaming, game publishers are finding ways to leverage the creative pool of independent game developers. A game development system consists of a creative environment, a production environment, and a submission environment. In the creative workspace, new wager game code is developed using pre-approved game components and other components provided by the game provider/publisher. In the production environment, the game code is tested, converted to operate in multiple platforms, to meet the requirements of various jurisdictions, and the like. Once the game code is ready for submission to regulatory bodies, in the submission environment, certain required and some voluntary documents are produced, such as a differences report, game description report, and a compliance certificate, all intended to facilitate the game approval process by the regulatory body. In this manner, a greater number of new games may be created and the approval process of new games is made more efficient. | 12-03-2009 |
20100048282 | GAMING SYSTEM, GAMING DEVICE AND METHOD OF PROVIDING SELECTION GAME WITH INTERDEPENDENT AWARD DISTRIBUTION - The disclosed gaming system, gaming device and method provide a selection game having a plurality of selectable positions and a plurality of awards interdependently distributed or associated with the selectable positions. For one, a plurality, or all the selectable positions, the award associated with such selectable position is interdependent in that such award has a relationship to one or more of the awards associated with the selectable positions bordering such position. In various embodiments, the value of the award associated with such selectable position has a relationship to one or more of the values of the awards associated with the selectable positions bordering such position. Based on these interdependencies, when each of the selectable positions is selected, the award, or value of the award, associated with the position provides certain information which can be subsequently used to make better informed position selections. | 02-25-2010 |
20100056247 | GAMING SYSTEM, GAMING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A STRATEGY GAME HAVING A PLURALITY OF AWARDS - The disclosed gaming system, gaming device and method provide a game including a plurality of awards, each of the awards associated with a plurality of award characteristics, including an award value and a level of difficulty. Based at least in part on the award characteristics associated with the awards, a player strategically chooses which award or awards to play for (i.e., which award or awards to attempt to collect) in the game. In certain multiplayer embodiments, two or more players can work together to obtain awards. | 03-04-2010 |
20100062838 | FLEXIBLE DETERMINATION OF GAMING AND SERVICES - According to some implementations, when a patron requests unavailable goods and/or services, at least one alternative option may be offered to that patron. The alternative option(s) may be determined in a variety of ways. For example, the patron's preferences may be compared to a database of available options. However, casino preferences and/or third party preferences may also be considered when determining an alternative option. In some instances, casino preferences and/or third party preferences may be accorded more weight than the preferences of at least some patrons. In some such implementations, however, third party preferences will be accorded less weight than the preferences of certain patrons, e.g., those patrons having a relatively high expected economic value to the gaming establishment. | 03-11-2010 |
20100087241 | Gaming System with Mobile User Input Device - One aspect is directed to a system whereby a live gaming table system is provided with one or more handheld user input devices which, for example, may allow multiple different players to simultaneously or concurrently provide wager input data and/or other data to the gaming table system. In at least one embodiment, the handheld user input devices may form part of a multi-player touch input interface system which is operable to identify or determine where, who, and what transactions are taking place at a multi-player gaming table and/or multi-player gaming system. | 04-08-2010 |
20110070951 | GAMING METHOD AND APPARATUS UTILIZING SECONDARY SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS - In a gaming method for facilitating game play via a gaming apparatus, the gaming apparatus comprising a controller and a first display unit, the controller communicatively coupled to the first display unit, a game software application may be executed, and value input data may be received. The first display unit may be caused to display a game image representative of one of the following games: poker, blackjack, slots, keno, or bingo. A secondary software application may be executed, and an icon associated with the secondary software application may be displayed simultaneous with the display of the game image, wherein a foreground of the game image is substantially unobstructed by the icon, and wherein the icon is substantially unobstructed by the foreground of the game image. Information may be conveyed using the secondary software application upon detecting an event, and a value payout associated with an outcome of the game may be determined. | 03-24-2011 |
20110092271 | Preserving Game State Data For Asynchronous Persistent Group Bonus Games - A system, apparatus, and method for preserving game state data for an asynchronous persistent group bonus game may have a plurality of gaming machines associated with the asynchronous persistent group bonus game and at least one network server having at least one processor and at least one non-volatile memory. The processor may be configured to determine whether a bonus game session is triggered on any of the plurality of gaming machines; and if the bonus game session is triggered, display live game monitor activities, and periodically save the persistent bonus game state and other data on the at least one non-volatile memory. | 04-21-2011 |
20110098118 | ADVENTURE SEQUENCE ACTIVITIES - A gaming system includes a communication network, a portable data storage device having information associated with a player stored therein and a plurality of gaming units communicatively coupled to the communication network. Each of the gaming units includes an interface for reading and for storing information within the portable data storage device. The gaming system also includes a network computer communicatively coupled to the communication network and the plurality of gaming units. The network computer is programmed to enable the player to play a group of the plurality of gaming units in a particular sequence based on the information associated with the player stored within the portable data storage device. | 04-28-2011 |
20110105234 | Method and System for Instant-On Game Dowload - Disclosed are methods, apparatus, and systems, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for a method for providing a game on demand over a data network, in a gaming machine. The gaming machine sends a request message for a game application over the data network. In a network mode, the gaming machine receives outputted results from an executed game application over a streaming channel of the data network for network-based game play. During the network-based game play, the game application is downloaded over a download channel of the data network. In a local mode, the gaming machine executes the downloaded game application independent of the network-based game play. The gaming machine switches instantaneously from the network mode to the local mode for machine-based game play, including maintaining a status of the network-based game play. | 05-05-2011 |
20110111860 | Gaming Systems Including Viral Gaming Events - Gaming machines and systems are configured to present viral gaming events. Once a viral gaming event is triggered, it is presented at one or more first gaming machines at a first time. The viral gaming events spreads to other gaming machines, such as one or more second gaming machines where it is presented at a later time. The viral gaming event may continue to spread to numerous gaming machines. The viral gaming event may comprise a game or a bonus or secondary event, such as a bonus award event to a base wagering game presented by the gaming machine. Feedback or metrics may be used to control the machines to which the viral gaming event spreads and/or the rate of spread. | 05-12-2011 |
20110117982 | Asynchronous Persistent Group Bonus Game - An asynchronous persistent group bonus game system, method and apparatus may have a plurality of gaming machines including a first processor and a bonus server having a second processor. The first processor may be configured to: determine when a bonus game session event is triggered, transmit a bonus game session request to the second processor, and receive an end session notification from the second processor. The second processor may be configured to execute and maintain the always-on asynchronous persistent group bonus game, receive a bonus game session request from at least one of the plurality of gaming machines, instantiate a bonus game session inside the continuous asynchronous persistent group bonus game for the at least one gaming machine, determine when an end session trigger has been triggered for the bonus game session, and transmit an end session notification to the at least one gaming machine if it is determined that the end session condition has been triggered. | 05-19-2011 |
20110218038 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DOWNLOADING GAMES OF CHANCE - The present invention provides methods, devices and systems for downloading gaming software. According to some implementations of the invention, gaming software is continuously transmitted on a plurality of channels, e.g., by one or more servers. In some such implementations, each channel is dedicated to software for a different wagering game. In other implementations, gaming software components are transmitted on a plurality of channels, with each channel dedicated to a particular gaming software component. Some implementations provide gaming software in response to a request from a gaming machine. Implementations over dedicated and/or public networks are provided. Preferred implementations of the invention allow gaming software to be downloaded to gaming machines in a secure manner that automatically ensures that licensing and regulatory requirements are satisfied. Some such implementations determine whether payment is required for gaming software and provide for automated payment, if so required. | 09-08-2011 |
20110250960 | Spontaneous Player Preferences - An apparatus, method, and system to present at least one game offering on a display of a gaming machine may include a portable electronic device having a processor operative with a spontaneous interest data application to acquire spontaneous interest data. A memory may store the spontaneous interest data and the spontaneous interest data application. The spontaneous interest data application may save the spontaneous interest data to the memory, and a data transfer interface can transfer the spontaneous interest data to a second device. | 10-13-2011 |
20110251703 | TOURNAMENT GAME SYSTEM AND TOURNAMENT METHOD - In an embodiment of a gaming method, an identifier may be received from a first gaming unit, wherein the identifier is associated with a tournament game card, wherein the tournament game card is provided to a player in response to paying a fee. Whether the identifier received from the first gaming unit is authentic may be determined. A duration the player may play in a tournament may be determined based on the identifier, and the first gaming unit may be enabled for play in the tournament for the duration if the identifier is authentic. A tournament score of the player may be received, and a winning player of the tournament, if any, may be determined. Data indicative of a value payout to be awarded to the winning player may be generated if the winning player of the tournament is determined. | 10-13-2011 |
20110281646 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR GAMING AND BRAND ASSOCIATION - A gaming system includes: (i) a base wagering game requiring a wager to made by a player; (ii) at least one winning outcome for the base wagering game; (iii) a paytable for the at least one winning outcome; a secondary award provided randomly to the player, the secondary party award provided by a secondary award provider and kept separate and apart from the paytable; and (iv) advertising for secondary award provider, the advertising provided in exchange for the provision of the secondary award. | 11-17-2011 |
20110306401 | System And Method For Supporting Second Chance Gaming - A gaming device may have at least one display configured to present a first game of chance, a game manager configured to initiate the first game of chance, a session manager configured to manage a user game play session involving the first game of chance, and a near-hit manager, wherein the near-hit manager can be configured to determine whether a near-hit triggering event occurs during the first game of chance, and then determine a near-hit award credit associated with the near-hit triggering event and record each of the near-hit award credits obtained during the user game play session. | 12-15-2011 |
20120063651 | REAL-TIME PLAYER TRACKING - Some implementations of the invention provide methods, devices and systems for acquiring patron data in real time. A plurality of networked cameras may be used to acquire information regarding casino patrons. The cameras may include “smart cameras” having an integrated machine vision system. The real-time information may be used to populate one or more databases of a player loyalty program. Patron information may also be used to determine trends associated with patron demographics, with levels of a player loyalty program, etc. Some implementations of the invention involve monitoring patron event data and determining when predetermined events of interest occur. When a defined event occurs, patron data relating to the associated patron may be monitored, analyzed and used to populate one or more player loyalty databases. In some implementations, patron data acquired prior to the time of the defined event may also be analyzed and used. | 03-15-2012 |
20120071232 | GAMING SYSTEM, GAMING DEVICE AND METHOD OF PROVIDING SELECTION GAME WITH INTERDEPENDENT AWARD DISTRIBUTION - The disclosed gaming system, gaming device and method provide a selection game having a plurality of selectable positions and a plurality of awards interdependently distributed or associated with the selectable positions. For one, a plurality, or all the selectable positions, the award associated with such selectable position is interdependent in that such award has a relationship to one or more of the awards associated with the selectable positions bordering such position. In various embodiments, the value of the award associated with such selectable position has a relationship to one or more of the values of the awards associated with the selectable positions bordering such position. Based on these interdependencies, when each of the selectable positions is selected, the award, or value of the award, associated with the position provides certain information which can be subsequently used to make better informed position selections. | 03-22-2012 |
20120088573 | PLAYER TRACKING COMMUNICATION MECHANISMS IN A GAMING MACHINE - A disclosed player tracking unit provides a display and a player tracking controller designed or configured to provide a web-browser on the display. The player tracking unit may include one or more input devices that can receive selections associated with the web-browser. Furthermore, the player tracking unit can include a multimedia board for processing digitally formatted program files for output on the display. | 04-12-2012 |
20120094769 | MOBILE GAMING DEVICES FOR USE IN A GAMING NETWORK HAVING GAMING AND NON-GAMING ZONES - Novel gaming networks, devices, and systems for enabling game play on wireless, mobile gaming devices based on the location of the device are described. A mobile gaming device can be used for wagering game play when the device is physically present in an authorized game play zone in a gaming environment and is used by an authorized and verified user. A gaming environment is divided into zones wherein a zone either allows wagering game play on a device or does not. A zone has multiple transmitters that transmit security signals that are detectable by a mobile device at all times while the device is in the zone. An appropriate wireless communication standard can be used to transmit the security signal, such as near-field magnetic communication. The device has at least one user identification and authentication mechanism to ensure that only an authorized user is using the device. | 04-19-2012 |
20120115584 | REMOTE WAGER GAMING SYSTEM USING A VIDEO GAME CONSOLE - Gaming systems, devices, and methods are described for enabling wager gaming with a gaming operator using a game cartridge, such as a USB key, and game storage medium, such as a DVD. The cartridge and disc are inserted into a video game console and a connection with the gaming operator is made via the Internet. Once a connection is made and the identity of the game cartridge user has been verified and authenticated, the user can begin wager game play. Game play data are transmitted between the console and the gaming operator in an encrypted format. An encryption key is transmitted to the gaming operator via a digital certificate stored on the cartridge which has the corresponding private key. The game cartridge is capable of capturing a biometric sample of the user which is compared to a sample provided when the cartridge was issued to the user. | 05-10-2012 |
20120122584 | MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PERIPHERAL DEVICE - A system, apparatus, and method for communicating information between a gaming device and a portable electronic device using a multi-functional peripheral device associated with the gaming device are disclosed. The multi-functional peripheral device may include a sensor to detect sensory input from the user and/or the portable electronic device associated with the user to play a game of chance on the gaming device. | 05-17-2012 |
20120122585 | Peripheral Management Device for Virtual Game Interaction - In one embodiment, a peripheral management device may have a controller configured to communicate with a gaming machine and a portable electronic device. The controller may be configured to: (i) receive a peripheral data packet from a gaming machine processor, the peripheral data packet including at least one command; (ii) determine whether to process the peripheral data packet on at least one peripheral device of the gaming machine or at least one virtual peripheral device of the portable electronic device; (iii) generate an instructional data packet for the at least one virtual peripheral device if the peripheral data packet is determined to be processed on the at least one virtual peripheral device; and (iv) transmit the instructional data packet to the portable electronic device. | 05-17-2012 |
20120322563 | Distributed Game Services - In some implementations, a local gaming machine is in communication with a remote gaming machine over a data network. A player input requesting a game application is received at the local gaming machine. The requested game application may be located at the remote gamine machine. It is determined whether the requested game application is available for execution on the remote gaming machine. In some instances, determining availability of the requested game application includes determining compliance with interface specifications, licensing specifications and/or jurisdictional specifications. When the requested game application is available for execution, an instance of the requested game application is reserved on the remote gaming machine. When the instance is executed on the remote gaming machine, output data is sent to the local gaming machine over the data network. In some instances, one or more game parameters can be captured from the received output data. | 12-20-2012 |
20120330740 | REAL-TIME PLAYER TRACKING - Some implementations of the invention provide methods, devices and systems for acquiring patron data in real time. A plurality of networked cameras may be used to acquire information regarding casino patrons. The cameras may include “smart cameras” having an integrated machine vision system. The real-time information may be used to populate one or more databases of a player loyalty program. Patron information may also be used to determine trends associated with patron demographics, with levels of a player loyalty program, etc. Some implementations of the invention involve monitoring patron event data and determining when predetermined events of interest occur. When a defined event occurs, patron data relating to the associated patron may be monitored, analyzed and used to populate one or more player loyalty databases. In some implementations, patron data acquired prior to the time of the defined event may also be analyzed and used. | 12-27-2012 |
20130005453 | VIRTUAL LEASH FOR PERSONAL GAMING DEVICE - Methods and systems for providing a virtual leash and command download capabilities on a hand-held personal gaming device (“PGD”) are disclosed. A host gaming system includes a game server configured to generate game seeds having data regarding predetermined game outcomes for various wager based games, and an authentication server configured to establish a virtual leash with a PGD. The virtual leash is adapted to repeatedly authenticate or verify a PGD user, a PGD location, the PGD itself, and/or software codes on the PGD. Included within an associated PGD are a display adapted to display gaming related information, a processor configured to execute gaming related code, and a memory containing a command download of computer code to be executed by the processor. The command download of computer code includes enough code for the PGD to process and display independently a game play based on a game seed. | 01-03-2013 |
20130123011 | DETECTING AND PREVENTING BOTS AND CHEATING IN ONLINE GAMING - Methods and devices are provided for detecting and/or preventing cheating in online gaming. Some implementations provide gaming information in formats that are difficult for a bot to interpret, but which are preferably easy for humans to interpret. Some implementations of the invention involve the tracking and analysis of players' gaming activities. Some implementations of the invention provide a multi-tier approach to data analysis. Some analyses may be performed, for example, by a centralized computing device such as a server, whereas other analyses may be performed by a host device. In some implementations, “challenge and response” measures will be employed. Some implementations of the invention involve detection and prevention of collaboration between players. | 05-16-2013 |
20130172059 | GAMING SYSTEM, GAMING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A STRATEGY GAME HAVING A PLURALITY OF AWARDS - The disclosed gaming system, gaming device and method provide a game including a plurality of awards, each of the awards associated with a plurality of award characteristics, including an award value and a level of difficulty. Based at least in part on the award characteristics associated with the awards, a player strategically chooses which award or awards to play for (i.e., which award or awards to attempt to collect) in the game. In certain multiplayer embodiments, two or more players can work together to obtain awards. | 07-04-2013 |
20130196747 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ACQUIRING VALUE FROM A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE FOR USE IN PLAYING A GAME OF CHANCE - A system, apparatus, and method for electronically transferring value using a portable electronic device. In one embodiment, a method for transferring funds to or from play a portable electronic device to facilitate playing a game of chance on a portable electronic device. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196762 | ASYNCHRONOUS PERSISTENT GROUP BONUS GAME - An asynchronous persistent group bonus game system, method and apparatus may have a plurality of gaming machines including a first processor and a bonus server having a second processor. The first processor may be configured to: determine when a bonus game session event is triggered, transmit a bonus game session request to the second processor, and receive an end session notification from the second processor. The second processor may be configured to execute and maintain the always-on asynchronous persistent group bonus game, receive a bonus game session request from at least one of the plurality of gaming machines, instantiate a bonus game session inside the continuous asynchronous persistent group bonus game for the at least one gaming machine, determine when an end session trigger has been triggered for the bonus game session, and transmit an end session notification to the at least one gaming machine if it is determined that the end session condition has been triggered. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196776 | SOCIAL GAMING - In one embodiment, a system, apparatus, and method for social gaming may include a gaming machine configured to play a game of chance and produce game information. A social gaming server can be configured to communicate with the gaming machine, may establish a remote gaming session between the gaming machine and a user device, and may distribute the portion of the game information to the user device. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196779 | ASYNCHRONOUS PERSISTENT GROUP BONUS GAMES WITH PRESERVED GAME STATE DATA - A system, apparatus, and method for preserving game state data for an asynchronous persistent group bonus game may have a plurality of gaming machines associated with the asynchronous persistent group bonus game and at least one network server having at least one processor and at least one non-volatile memory. The processor may be configured to determine whether a bonus game session is triggered on any of the plurality of gaming machines; and if the bonus game session is triggered, display live game monitor activities, and periodically save the persistent bonus game state and other data on the at least one non-volatile memory. | 08-01-2013 |
20130203488 | DETECTING AND PREVENTING BOTS AND CHEATING IN ONLINE GAMING - Methods and devices are provided for detecting and/or preventing cheating in online gaming. Some implementations provide gaming information in formats that are difficult for a bot to interpret, but which are preferably easy for humans to interpret. Some implementations of the invention involve the tracking and analysis of players' gaming activities. Some implementations of the invention provide a multi-tier approach to data analysis. Some analyses may be performed, for example, by a centralized computing device such as a server, whereas other analyses may be performed by a host device. In some implementations, “challenge and response” measures will be employed. Some implementations of the invention involve detection and prevention of collaboration between players. | 08-08-2013 |
20130210513 | SOCIAL GAMING - In one embodiment, a system, apparatus, and method for social gaming may include a gaming machine configured to play a game of chance and produce game information. A social gaming server can be configured to communicate with the gaming machine, may establish a remote gaming session between the gaming machine and a user device, and may distribute the portion of the game information to the user device. | 08-15-2013 |
20130210514 | SOCIAL GAMING - In one embodiment, a system, apparatus, and method for social gaming includes at least one gaming machine configured to play a game of chance and produce game information and a social gaming server configured to: communicate with the at least one gaming machine; establish a remote gaming session between the gaming machine and at least one user device; and distribute at least a portion of the game information to the at least one user device. | 08-15-2013 |
20130210530 | TEMPORARY GRANT OF REAL-TIME BONUS FEATURE - In one embodiment, a system, apparatus, and method for distributing a portion of game information may include a gaming machine configured to play a game of chance and produce game information. A social gaming server can be configured to communicate with the gaming machine, may establish a remote gaming session between the gaming machine and a user device, and may distribute the portion of the game information to the user device. A social gaming server may also establish a temporal bonus game feature between the gaming machine user and at least one available remote user. | 08-15-2013 |
20140038681 | GAMING DEVICE HAVING A PLURALITY OF INTERACTIVE PLAYER-SELECTABLE SYMBOLS - A gaming device which includes a plurality of sets of interactive player-selectable symbols which are sequentially offered to a player during a game played upon the gaming device. The player may select one or more of the player-selectable symbols to be added to one or more sets of symbols which were initially provided to the player. | 02-06-2014 |
20140051502 | TOURNAMENT GAME SYSTEM AND TOURNAMENT METHOD - In an embodiment of a gaming method, an identifier may be received from a first gaming unit, wherein the identifier is associated with a tournament game card, wherein the tournament game card is provided to a player in response to paying a fee. Whether the identifier received from the first gaming unit is authentic may be determined. A duration the player may play in a tournament may be determined based on the identifier, and the first gaming unit may be enabled for play in the tournament for the duration if the identifier is authentic. A tournament score of the player may be received, and a winning player of the tournament, if any, may be determined. Data indicative of a value payout to be awarded to the winning player may be generated if the winning player of the tournament is determined. | 02-20-2014 |
20140080578 | Multi-Functional Peripheral Device - A system, apparatus, and method for electronically transferring funds using a multi-functional peripheral device. The multi-functional peripheral device may include a housing, a bezel coupled to an exterior of the housing, and at least one sensor device coupled to the bezel. The at least one sensor device can be configured to detect at least one sensory input. | 03-20-2014 |
20140094273 | ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFER FOR MOBILE GAMING - In one embodiment, a system and method to transfer money may include a mobile device associated with a player, a location server designed to: track a device position of the mobile device and track a vessel position, and a mobile gaming management server designed to: receive a fund transfer request from a gaming server for the mobile device, the fund transfer request including a fund amount; determine if the fund amount can be transferred to the mobile device based on the device position and the vessel position; and transfer the fund amount to the mobile device if it is determined that the fund amount can be transferred to the mobile device. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094292 | JACKPOT INTERFACES AND SERVICES ON A GAMING MACHINE - A disclosed a player tracking unit provides a touch screen display with a touch screen controller integrated into the touch screen sensor assembly. Game service interfaces may be presented on the touch screen display that allow a user to obtain one or more game services. With the touch screen sensor, a user may navigate through the game service interface and supply information required to obtain a game service. Types of interfaces provided with the gaming machine include a jackpot interface for displaying one or more jackpots selected by the player or one or more jackpots that the player is eligible to win. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094295 | Control of Mobile Game Play on a Mobile Vessel - In one embodiment, a system and method for controlling mobile gaming on a vessel may have a plurality of mobile gaming devices, a location server operable to track a device position of each of the plurality of mobile gaming devices and track a vessel position of the vessel, and a mobile gaming management server configured to communicate with the location server and a gaming server, the mobile gaming management server operable to individually control whether each of the plurality of mobile gaming devices is permitted to play a game of chance based on the device position and the vessel position. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094318 | DISTRIBUTED GAME SERVICES - A local gaming machine is in communication with a remote gaming machine over a data network. The local gaming machine may include a storage medium. The local gaming machine may further include an interface for communicating with the remote gaming machine over a network. The local gaming machine may include a controller. The controller is configured to establish communications between the gaming machine and the remote gaming machine through the interface. The controller is further configured to initiate a game streaming session with the remote gaming machine in which output data from an instance of a game application is initiated from the remote gaming machine to the gaming machine. The controller is configured to detect an interrupt in the game streaming session. The controller is further configured to, after the interrupt is detected, determine whether the outcome of the instance of the game application has been received. | 04-03-2014 |
20140106875 | GAMING SYSTEM WITH MOBILE USER INPUT DEVICE - Intelligent gaming tables and methods of providing game play through the gaming tables are described herein. The gaming table includes a table having a table surface, a plurality of player stations, and a common display configured to display gaming content to a plurality of players. The gaming table further includes an interface configured to communicate with a plurality of user input devices. The gaming table includes a gaming controller. The gaming controller is configured to communicate with the plurality of user input devices through the interface, receive location information relating to touches or contacts detected on the table surface, analyze the information relating to the touches or contacts, identify a user performing each of the touches or contacts with the table surface, and implement player input instructions contained within the information relating to the touches or contacts. | 04-17-2014 |
20140135116 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESS GAMING COMMUNICATIONS - A method of connecting a wireless device to an electronic gaming machine is described. The method includes broadcasting, though a wireless transceiver of the gaming machine, a discovery message to wireless communication devices within a broadcast range of the wireless transceiver. The method further includes receiving, at the wireless transceiver, a response message from the wireless device. The method includes establishing, by the gaming machine, a wireless connection between the wireless device and the gaming machine. The method further includes requesting, by the gaming machine, a player identification and player preferences of a user of the wireless device. The method includes receiving, from the wireless device, the player identification and player preferences of the user. The method further includes broadcasting, through the wireless transceiver, an audio message customized for the user to the wireless device. | 05-15-2014 |
20140162792 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INSTANT-ON GAME DOWNLOAD - Disclosed are methods, apparatus, and systems, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for a method for providing a game on demand over a data network, in a gaming machine. The gaming machine sends a request message for a game application over the data network. In a network mode, the gaming machine receives outputted results from an executed game application over a streaming channel of the data network for network-based game play. During the network-based game play, the game application is downloaded over a download channel of the data network. In a local mode, the gaming machine executes the downloaded game application independent of the network-based game play. The gaming machine switches instantaneously from the network mode to the local mode for machine-based game play, including maintaining a status of the network-based game play. | 06-12-2014 |
20140179431 | SPONTANEOUS PLAYER PREFERENCES - An apparatus, method, and system to present at least one game offering on a display of a gaming machine may include a portable electronic device having a processor operative with a spontaneous interest data application to acquire spontaneous interest data. A memory may store the spontaneous interest data and the spontaneous interest data application. The spontaneous interest data application may save the spontaneous interest data to the memory, and a data transfer interface can transfer the spontaneous interest data to a second device. | 06-26-2014 |
20140194171 | GAMING SYSTEM, GAMING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A STRATEGY GAME HAVING A PLURALITY OF AWARDS - The disclosed gaming system, gaming device and method provide a game including a plurality of awards, each of the awards associated with a plurality of award characteristics, including an award value and a level of difficulty. Based at least in part on the award characteristics associated with the awards, a player strategically chooses which award or awards to play for (i.e., which award or awards to attempt to collect) in the game. In certain multiplayer embodiments, two or more players can work together to obtain awards. | 07-10-2014 |
20140274309 | GAMING DEVICE DOCKING STATION - In one embodiment, a system to authorize a mobile electronic device to play games of chance includes a gaming system manager and a portable docking station configured to: (i) detect whether the mobile electronic device is connected to a receiver of the portable docking station; (ii) receive device information from the mobile electronic device if it is detected that the mobile electronic device is connected to the receiver; (iii) determine whether the games of chance can be played on the mobile electronic device based on the received device information; (iv) authorize the mobile electronic device to play the games of chance; and (v) transmit gaming data to the mobile electronic device if it is determined that the games of chance can be played on the mobile electronic device and if the mobile electronic device is authorized. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274319 | Method and System for Localized Mobile Gaming - In one embodiment, a system and method to facilitate playing games of chance on a MGD includes a game zone, having: a) at least one portable transceiver configured to: i) detect the MGD; ii) obtain MGD data from the MGD; and iii) periodically re-detect the MGD within the game zone, the at least one portable transceiver repositionable to form the game zone; b) a portable controller configured to receive MGD data; and c) a gaming server configured to: i) receive the MGD data from the portable controller; ii) determine if the MGD is authorized to place a monetary wager to play games of chance based on the MGD data; iii) periodically receive detection confirmation from the portable controller if the MGD is present in the game zone; iv) transmit and/or receive game of chance data to/from the MGD, wherein the game zone is repositionable and configurable. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274320 | Method and System for Localized Mobile Gaming - In one embodiment, a system and method for facilitating intra-casino mobile gaming, the method includes forming an intra-casino mobile gaming zone internal to a casino establishment; pairing a player ID tag with a PGD; determining whether one of the player ID tag or the PGD is within the intra-casino mobile gaming zone using a zone specific local positioning system; and permitting the PGD to provide a wager gaming capability associated with the intra-casino mobile gaming zone while wirelessly interacting with a gaming server if the determining determines that at least one of the player ID tag or the PGD is within the intra-casino mobile gaming zone. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274342 | ADAPTIVE MOBILE DEVICE GAMING SYSTEM - Embodiments disclosed herein concern mobile gaming environments. Portable electronic devices can be supported by the mobile gaming environments. The locations of the portable electronic device can influence how the portable electronic devices operate or what services or features are available to the portable electronic device or their users. According to one embodiment, a mobile gaming system can concern gaming/betting opportunities that can be secured using a portable electronic device even when an individual is located in a location where betting or games of chance are not permitted. According to another embodiment, a mobile gaming system can concern an application program operating on a portable electronic device that supports multiple modes of operation depending upon whether the portable electronic device is in a location where betting or games of chance are permitted. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274357 | RECONFIGURABLE GAMING ZONE - In one embodiment, method of operating a zone-based gaming activity, includes generating, in response to a request, a reconfigurable zone; determining one or more eligible participants; and modifying said zone to change the number of eligible participants. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274360 | Portable Intermediary Trused Device - In one embodiment, an intermediary gaming trusted electronic device for use with an untrusted PED may include a position sensor configured to acquire position information, a memory configured to store at least game session data, and a processor configured to at least: securely communicate with a gaming apparatus via the wireless transceiver; securely communicate with the associated untrusted PED; determine whether a gaming session is permitted based on the position information; receive gaming data from the gaming apparatus if it is determined that the gaming session is permitted; transmit presentation data to the associated untrusted PED for presentation on a display of the associated PED, wherein the intermediary gaming trusted device is able to support interaction between the gaming apparatus and the associated untrusted PED so that the associated untrusted PED, when coupled to the intermediary gaming trusted device, can execute a gaming software. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274367 | AUTHENTICATION OF MOBILE SERVERS - In one embodiment, a method, apparatus, and system of authenticating a mobile server may have at least one mobile server configured to execute games of chance on a plurality of mobile gaming devices and an authentication server configured to: determine a location of the at least one mobile server; determine a wireless communication means to communicate with the at least one mobile server based on the location of the at least one mobile server; communicate with the at least one mobile server via the determined wireless communication means; and initiate authentication, by an authentication server, of the at least one mobile server. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274388 | DETERMINATION OF ADVERTISEMENT BASED ON PLAYER PHYSIOLOGY - A method, apparatus, and system of selective advertising includes a gaming server to receive a request to play a game of chance from a gaming device, transmit gaming data to the gaming device, the gaming data associated with the requested game of chance, and receive player data, the player data associated with the player's eye movement, gestures, or change in state. The server may also be configured to analyze the player data, determine a context associated with the player data; and initiate an action based on the determined context. | 09-18-2014 |
20150038237 | VIRAL BENEFIT DISTRIBUTION USING ELECTRONIC DEVICES - Gaming machines and systems are configured to distribute of viral events, such as viral gaming events, amongst devices. The devices can present the viral events. The devices can, for example, be gaming machines and/or mobile devices. According to one embodiment, once a viral event is triggered, it is presented at one or more first devices at a first time. The viral event spreads to other devices, such as one or more second devices where it can be presented at a later time. The viral event may continue to spread to numerous other devices. Feedback or metrics may be used to control the devices to which the viral event spreads and/or the rate of spread. | 02-05-2015 |