Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080207304 | IMPROVED PRESENTATION OF MULTI-LEVEL MYSTERY BONUS AWARDS - In one aspect, a system displays a winning one of multiple mystery bonus awards before identifying a winner of the winning award from among a plurality of players of base games. In another aspect, the system displays a winning one of multiple mystery bonus awards after identifying a winner of the winning award from among a plurality of players of base games. | 08-28-2008 |
20080207313 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INDICATING WIN PROXIMITY - In one aspect, a system displays a winning one of multiple mystery bonus awards before identifying a winner of the winning award from among a plurality of players of base games. In another aspect, the system displays a winning one of multiple mystery bonus awards after identifying a winner of the winning award from among a plurality of players of base games. | 08-28-2008 |
20080268935 | GAMING DEVICE AND METHOD UTILIZING AT LEAST TWO RNG OUTCOMES - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to electronic gaming devices utilizing at least two randomly generated outcomes along with methods of implementing the multiple randomly generated outcomes during game play. In one embodiment, a gaming device includes a display, a first game initiating button associated with a first random outcome, and a second game initiating button associated with a second random outcome. | 10-30-2008 |
20080268953 | GAMING DEVICE WITH PERSONALITY - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to gaming devices that provide audio-visual animated characters in response to game play. The character has a personality that may be encouraging, taunting or another quality. A plurality of expressions of the personality is presented, between one extreme and another, dependant upon the history of game outcomes. | 10-30-2008 |
20090011826 | Bonus with Increasing Proximity of Occurrence - Method of conducting a game of chance having a randomly enabled bonus game with controllable frequency of occurrence, including the steps of: making a wager to initiate play on a base game; initiating a random bonus enablement determination which is separate from base game outcome; and allowing bonus game play only if the bonus is enabled. | 01-08-2009 |
20090054148 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING PLAYER INCENTIVES - A system and method is provided for incentivizing players to visit a gambling location. In one aspect, a qualified person is invited to play an electronic game which has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome. One aspect relates to accumulating outcomes. Another relates to incentives provided to player program member(s). In some embodiments, the person does not need to be qualified. In one embodiment, the person may be required to redeem the outcome at the gambling location, in another at a redemption location. In one embodiment, a player is required to take an action in order to redeem an outcome. In some embodiments, a game play and/or redemption and/or any action must occur in a specified time, respectively. In one embodiment the electronic game is not located at a gambling location, in another it is not located at a redemption location. | 02-26-2009 |
20090075728 | PROXIMITY METER MANIPULATION ON A GAMING EVENT - Each play of a base game increases the likelihood of winning a bonus award. A cue is provided to give an indication of the change in likelihood of winning the bonus award. In one embodiment, the cue is a graphical indication that takes the form of a proximity indicator such as a bar with defined minimum and maximum points showing the boundaries of possible win thresholds. The game includes an eligibility engine that is configured to track play on the base game and trigger display of the proximity indicator only when play bears a defined relationship to a first determined play value. Display of the proximity indicator may thus be an incentive for a player to meet certain play value, whether tied to rate of play, play of a max coin bet, etc. In one aspect, the bonus award comprises the opportunity to play a secondary game. | 03-19-2009 |
20090093299 | RECENT RESULT DISPLAY INDICIA FOR GAMING DEVICE - A gaming device comprising a base game, a base game pay table, and at least one bonus award mechanism configured to award a bonus award in addition to any award resulting from the base game pay table. The gaming device further includes a first win proximity indicator configured to provide an indication of the change in likelihood of awarding the bonus award, and a display configured to provide a first indicia of a previous win of the bonus award together with the first win proximity indicator. Multiple indicators from multiple previous wins may be displayed in spatial relationship to one another along a meter to provide a player with further statistical information about possible winning trigger thresholds. | 04-09-2009 |
20090124354 | METHOD FOR ATTRIBUTING GAMEPLAY CREDIT TO A PLAYER - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to properly and accurately attributing gameplay to a player. Identification of a player can be associated with the gameplay either before gameplay begins, during the gameplay itself, or after the gameplay ends. Some embodiments use various gathered data and metrics to accurately determine the proper player to attribute. | 05-14-2009 |
20090124357 | GAMING DEVICE CONFIGURATION BASED ON PLAYER VALUE - Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a system that rewards identified players with certain benefits by modifying a paytable of a base game. The paytable can be modified based on an identified player's historical record, or based on a perceived or projected value. The player may be required to play at a minimum rate or level to qualify for a modified paytable. The paytable can be changed before or during a gaming session. | 05-14-2009 |
20090124358 | PLAYER-BASED COMPENSATION - Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a system that rewards identified players with certain benefits that can be used within a base game of a gaming device. Benefits may have a redemption period that differs from the accumulation period, and may have expiration periods. Benefits may expire at different rates. Some of the benefits directly affect the paytable of the base machine. | 05-14-2009 |
20090124373 | PLAYER VALUE DETERMINATION SYSTEM - Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a system that determines a player's value. Valued players may then be rewarded with certain benefits based on their value or expected value. Valuation can be determined based on an identified player's historical record, or calculated based on a perceived or projected value. Third-party data can be a factor in determining the player valuation. | 05-14-2009 |
20090131156 | METHOD FOR CONFIGURING GAMING DEVICES VIA A NETWORK - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method for configuring gaming machines in which configuration data packets are associated with a player's record in a player tracking system. The configuration data packets may have machine identification information in a header that may be associated with each data packet. When a player is recognized at a gaming machine, the player's record is retrieved from the network and data packets associated with the machine at which the player is recognized are read and used to configure the gaming device. Furthermore, data related to outcomes of games played by the player on multiple machines may be collected and used to award a bonus to the player, the bonus being awarded in response to collecting a predefined plurality of outcomes. Data related to bonuses accrued and used may also be associated with the player's record. | 05-21-2009 |
20090170608 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-02-2009 |
20090170610 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-02-2009 |
20090170611 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-02-2009 |
20090170612 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-02-2009 |
20090170613 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-02-2009 |
20090170614 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-02-2009 |
20090176560 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-09-2009 |
20090176564 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-09-2009 |
20090176578 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-09-2009 |
20090176579 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-09-2009 |
20090176580 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING AND USING PLAYER INFORMATION - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 07-09-2009 |
20090191962 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING PLAYER INCENTIVES - A system and method is provided for incentivizing players to visit a gambling location. In one aspect, a qualified person is invited to play an electronic game which has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome. In one embodiment, the qualified person may be required to redeem the outcome at the gambling location. In another embodiment, the person may be required to redeem the outcome at a redemption location. In another aspect, a method is provided for permitting a person to take one or more actions within a gambling location and in response inviting the person to play an electronic game separate from the games offered in a gambling environment at the gambling location, where the game has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome, and if the person obtains a winning outcome, requiring the person to redeem the at least one outcome at the gambling location. In one embodiment, the method includes the acts of qualifying a person. Qualification may require specific acts, for example, referring another person, and/or providing an invitation to play an electronic game to another person. Various systems and method assist in tracking and maintaining such referrals. Additionally group gaming in and amongst referrals and/or designated groups may be performed, and in some embodiment required for qualification and/or redemption. Further, another aspect relates to providing special incentives, for example for referral of a new player, for providing casino affiliation or membership information, among others. | 07-30-2009 |
20090215523 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SELECTIVELY INDICATING WIN PROBABILITY - Each play of a base game increases the likelihood of winning a bonus award. A display provides a graphical indication of the change in likelihood of winning the bonus award. In one aspect, the bonus award comprises the opportunity to play a secondary game. | 08-27-2009 |
20090239604 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING A VIRTUAL WIN - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method and apparatus for operating a gaming device having at least one winning event and at least one related award that is generated according to a set of rules associated with the game. The game is driven to present a predefined winning outcome and an award is generated as if the winning event and award were generated according to the rules. Also provided are rules and/or conditions for determining when to generate the predefined wining event, including rules that take into account player value to the casino and game volatility preference. | 09-24-2009 |
20090239648 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ALTERING GAMING DEVICE CONFIGURATION RESPONSIVE TO INFORMATION RELATED TO A PLAYER OF THE GAMING DEVICE - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method and apparatus for operating a gaming device having at least one winning event and at least one related award that is generated according to a set of rules associated with the game. The game is driven to present a predefined winning outcome and an award is generated as if the winning event and award were generated according to the rules. Also provided are rules and/or conditions for determining when to generate the predefined wining event, including rules that take into account player value to the casino and game volatility preference. | 09-24-2009 |
20090239660 | METHOD FOR PROVIDING INCENTIVES FOR A PLAYER TO PLAY A GAMING DEVICE - An incentive offering system can be used to enhance player enjoyment by making targeted suggestions to the player. Specifically, this system can evaluate player preferences, as evidenced by prior playing styles or by other methods, and suggest other games that have similar qualities that the player seems to prefer. Non-game offers may be made as well. Player histories may be evaluated in real-time to help the offering system determine the best offer to make to the player. Player values and casino resources may also be considered. Some offers may be complementary, while others may require some amount of cost or effort by the player. | 09-24-2009 |
20090239661 | METHOD FOR SURVEYING A PLAYER OF A GAMING DEVICE - An incentive survey system can be used to enhance player enjoyment by presenting the player with a survey at a time when the gameplay experience is fresh in the player's mind, or at other times when the player is willing to provide feedback information. Changes may be made to the player's profile stored on the gaming network in response to the survey answers, which can be used to tailor future games. Incentives may be provided to the player to encourage participation in the survey. | 09-24-2009 |
20090247267 | BONUS WITH PROXIMITY OF OCCURRENCE RELATED TO BASE GAME OUTCOMES OR PAYBACK PERCENTAGE - Each play of a base game increases the likelihood of winning a bonus award. A display provides a graphical indication of the change in likelihood of winning the bonus award. In one aspect, the bonus award comprises the opportunity to play a secondary game. In another aspect, winning the bonus award may be based on payback percentage or outcomes of the base game. In yet another aspect, the timing of the next bonus award can be configured, or otherwise based on one or more conditions. | 10-01-2009 |
20090264171 | GENERATING A SCORE RELATED TO PLAY ON GAMING DEVICES - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to generating and displaying a score related to the results of wagering by a player on an electronic gaming machine. In one embodiment, a method for generating a score related to play on at least one electronic gaming device includes tracking the amount wagered on the gaming device, tracking the amount awarded by the gaming device, and generating a score related to the tracked amounts. | 10-22-2009 |
20090275375 | MULTIPLE OUTCOME DISPLAY FOR GAMING DEVICES - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a display of multiple game outcomes that may be won by a player on a gaming device. In one embodiment, a gaming device includes a player interface panel having at least one game input device, a game output display to show the result of a gaming event wagered upon by a player at the gaming device, a multiple outcome display configured to display possible outcomes of the gaming event, and a selection mechanism operable by the player to identify a game event outcome from the displayed multiple outcomes. | 11-05-2009 |
20090318214 | SINGULAR WAGERING APPARATUS FOR GAMING DEVICE - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to single button wagering on a gaming device. A one-touch button on the gaming device is used both to place a wager and to initiate a gaming session. The wager can be a pre-set amount or an amount that is determined based the individual player, the amount of credits on the gaming device, and other conditions. | 12-24-2009 |
20090318215 | GAMING DEVICE WITH UNLOCKABLE FEATURES - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a gaming device with unlockable features. The unlockable features can change default settings in the game environment of the gaming device and provide game mode changes, vanity features, and external features to the player. The unlockable game environment features can be different sound schemes, different static images, flashing images, and animations. The unlockable features can be triggered based on various player statistics and can be managed in a player account. The player can manage the unlockable features interactively on the gaming device. | 12-24-2009 |
20090318217 | GAMING DEVICE WITH DURATIONAL GAME ELEMENTS - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a gaming device with durational game elements. The durational game elements can change default settings in the game environment of the gaming device for a specified duration. The duration can be based on a period of time, a number of wins or losses, or a number of games played. | 12-24-2009 |
20100004047 | PLAYER SELECTABLE GAMING VOLATILITY - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to gaming devices having player selectable gaming volatility and methods of implementing selectable volatility for player use on a gaming device. In one embodiment, a gaming device includes a player interface panel including at least one gaming button for placing a wager on a gaming event, a gaming display to show an output of the gaining event, and a volatility device configured to set a volatility level of the gaming event in response to a player input. | 01-07-2010 |
20100004053 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING WAGERING BY MULTIPLE PLAYERS OF GAMING MACHINES - Embodiments of the present concept provide an electronic gaming device that facilitates wagering by multiple players on a single gaming device. In one embodiment, a gaming device includes a first station to accommodate a first player, a second station to accommodate a second player, and at least one display for displaying game outcomes at both the first and second stations. The gaming device may include a common meter that stores credits available for wagering at the first and second station, or may include separate meters for displaying credits or scores for each gaming station. | 01-07-2010 |
20100004054 | METHOD OF ALLOCATING CREDITS FOR GAMING DEVICES - Embodiments of the present concept provide an electronic gaming device that facilitates wagering by multiple players on a single gaming device. Also provide is a method of allocating credits input into such a gaming device, where the method includes receiving a monetarily-based tender input from a player on the gaming device, converting the inputted monetarily-based tender to credits available for wagering by multiple players at multiple gaming stations of the gaming device, receiving wagers from the players, and adding credits awarded as a result of the wagers to the available credits. | 01-07-2010 |
20100004057 | SHARED GAME PLAY ON GAMING DEVICE - Embodiments of the present concept provide an electronic gaming device that facilitates wagering by multiple players on a single gaming device. Also provided is a method of sharing game play on such a gaming device, where the method includes receiving a wager from a first player at a first gaming station, receiving a wager from a second player at a second gaming station, initiating a gaming event that is displayed at the first and second gaming stations, and awarding prizes associated with gaming outcomes displayed at the first and second gaming stations. | 01-07-2010 |
20100004058 | SHARED BONUS ON GAMING DEVICE - Embodiments of the present concept provide an electronic gaming device that facilitates wagering by multiple players on a single gaming device. Also provided is a method of implementing a bonus on such a gaming device, where the method may include receiving a bonus trigger, determining if the bonus is a shared bonus, and transferring game play from base games being played on multiple gaming stations of the gaming device to a shared bonus when the bonus is determined to be a shared bonus. | 01-07-2010 |
20100056248 | GAMING DEVICE HAVING VARIABLE SPEED OF PLAY - This concept is directed to gaming devices configured to vary the speed of game play, as well as method of operating gaming devices to vary the speed of play. In some examples of the this concept, a gaming device may be configured to include a game initiating button that when pressed by a player triggers a game processor to ascertain and display a first game outcome, determine if the first game outcome is a winning outcome, and automatically ascertain and display a second game outcome if the first game outcome is not a winning outcome. If the first game outcome is a winning outcome the gaming device may pause to allow the player to appreciate the win before retriggering the processor to ascertain and display subsequent gaming event outcomes, or the gaming device may wait to receive further player input. | 03-04-2010 |
20100069138 | PLAYER SELECTED IDENTITIES AND LUCKY SYMBOLS - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to player representations used to configure indicia on a gaming device. The player representations are used to represent the identity of the player and to personalize the player's gaming experience. The player representations can be provided by the casino or by the player. | 03-18-2010 |
20100124979 | BONUS FOR CONNECTED GAMING DEVICES - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a bonusing system and method for gaming devices that are connected to one another. In some embodiments, separate counters are maintained for each choice of wager that each player has. For instance, if a player can bet 1, bet 2, and bet 3, then there are three sets of counters. Each counter has an individual trigger that may be randomly assigned. Each time a player bets, the corresponding counter increments, and each of the players at the connected gaming devices can see the counters accumulating. One bet will satisfy the individual trigger and, in some embodiments, the player who made the bet will win a bonus. In other embodiments, any player of a connected device can win. In either event, the players of the connected devices will not immediately know which player will get the bonus. Eventually the winning player is identified and the bonus awarded. | 05-20-2010 |
20100124993 | SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING GAMING ACTIVITY - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a gaming device configured to record gaming activity, a method of processing the recorded gaming activity to analyze player behavior, and a system including the gaming device. The gaming device may include a gaming display to display gaming events played on the gaming device by a player during a gaming session, a player interface panel including a plurality of gaming buttons and a game initiating button configured to initiate the gaming events, and a game processor configured to record each activity between the player and the gaming device, wherein each recorded activity is associated with a time stamp. | 05-20-2010 |
20100178975 | GRAPHICAL PROGRESS REPORT FOR GAMING DEVICE BONUS - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a graphical report or progress bar that informs the player how close they are to receiving a bonus for a gaming device. In one embodiment a character “eats,” consumes, or otherwise eliminates obstacles between an avatar or indicator character and a reward. The character advances based on results of playing the base game on the gaming device or based on other factors. Reaching the reward allows the player to play another bonus game that directly awards cash, credit, or some other benefit. Progress toward the bonus award may be associated (and stored) with a player account, so that it carries over from one gaming session to another, or progress may be only active for the current session. Linked devices could remove the obstacles in either or both of the games. In other embodiments the graphical report takes form of a bar having an increasing fill level, a miner uncovering jewels from rocks, a miner extracting jewels from a mine or hole, and a pie that adds pieces as the player progresses toward the bonus. | 07-15-2010 |
20100298044 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BEHAVIORAL GAMING - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for behavioral gaming. A method of conducting a game of chance comprises: establishing behavioral gaming criteria at a gaming server, collecting statistical data associated with a player from a plurality of gaming sessions; comparing the statistical data to the behavioral gaming criteria; and initiating an action responsive to the comparing to alter behavior of the player. The behavioral gaming limits can be provided by a casino or by the player. The responsive actions can include messages displayed on a gaming device, changes to the functionality of the gaming device, and intervention by casino personnel or third parties. | 11-25-2010 |
20100304855 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISPLAYING PLAYER TRACKING INFORMATION ON AN ELECTRONIC GAMING MACHINE DISPLAY - A gaming machine includes gaming electronics for projecting a game image onto a gaming machine display associated with the gaming machine. The gaming machine is coupled over a network to a host computer that keeps track of data corresponding to a casino patron such as loyalty bonus information, player ID, and so forth (“player tracking data”). The player tracking data is transmitted from the host computer to a gaming machine responsive to identification of the casino patron operating the machine via an electronic card reader. The player tracking data is received by a machine communication interface within the gaming machine and further processed for display by a video overlay device that combines the game image with the player account display information. Accordingly, both the game (e.g. slot machine) and the player account information can appear on the same display monitor. | 12-02-2010 |
20110111855 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING PLAYER INCENTIVES - A system and method is provided for incentivizing players to visit a gambling location. In one aspect, a qualified person is invited to play an electronic game which has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome. In one embodiment, the qualified person may be required to redeem the outcome at the gambling location. In another embodiment, the person may be required to redeem the outcome at a redemption location. In another aspect, a method is provided for permitting a person to take one or more actions within a gambling location and in response inviting the person to play an electronic game separate from the games offered in a gambling environment at the gambling location, where the game has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome, and if the person obtains a winning outcome, requiring the person to redeem the at least one outcome at the gambling location. In one embodiment, the method includes the acts of qualifying a person, and in response to the act of qualifying the person, performing acts of providing an award to the qualified person and inviting the person to visit a gambling location to redeem the award. A method is provided for incentivizing players to return to a gambling location after a previous visit. One aspect relates to a method for providing additional incentives to a frequent player program member to visit a gambling location such as a casino. In one example, the ease of using the Internet or other remote technologies is combined with advantages of a frequent player program to encourage players to return to the casino. A prize may be revealed in an online game, and the prize may need to be redeemed at the location of the casino. In one example game format, the player may be provided game credits to a player to play one or more online games that reveal prizes. The prizes may include, for example, an amount of non-cashable credit that may be used by the player to play one or more games located at the gambling location, thus encouraging player return. Other prizes, such as, for example, complimentary offers and/or promotional prizes may be awarded that can only be redeemed by the player by returning to the gambling location. Further, another aspect relates to providing special incentives for remote entry of casino affiliation or membership cards. The special incentives may include providing a prize or award to frequent player program members that remotely use his or her membership. In one example, the player is provided an indication of winning an incentive during play of an online game. In another example, the player may be required to obtain the winnings at the casino to encourage players to return to the casino. | 05-12-2011 |
20110275438 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING PLAYER INCENTIVES - A system and method is provided for incentivizing players to visit a gambling location. In one aspect, a qualified person is invited to play an electronic game which has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome. In one embodiment, the qualified person may be required to redeem the outcome at the gambling location. In another embodiment, the person may be required to redeem the outcome at a redemption location. In another aspect, a method is provided for permitting a person to take one or more actions within a gambling location and in response inviting the person to play an electronic game separate from the games offered in a gambling environment at the gambling location, where the game has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome, and if the person obtains a winning outcome, requiring the person to redeem the at least one outcome at the gambling location. In one embodiment, the method includes the acts of qualifying a person, and in response to the act of qualifying the person, performing acts of providing an award to the qualified person and inviting the person to visit a gambling location to redeem the award. A method is provided for incentivizing players to return to a gambling location after a previous visit. One aspect relates to a method for providing additional incentives to a frequent player program member to visit a gambling location such as a casino. In one example, the ease of using the Internet or other remote technologies is combined with advantages of a frequent player program to encourage players to return to the casino. A prize may be revealed in an online game, and the prize may need to be redeemed at the location of the casino. In one example game format, the player may be provided game credits to a player to play one or more online games that reveal prizes. The prizes may include, for example, an amount of non-cashable credit that may be used by the player to play one or more games located at the gambling location, thus encouraging player return. Other prizes, such as, for example, complimentary offers and/or promotional prizes may be awarded that can only be redeemed by the player by returning to the gambling location. Further, another aspect relates to providing special incentives for remote entry of casino affiliation or membership cards. The special incentives may include providing a prize or award to frequent player program members that remotely use his or her membership. In one example, the player is provided an indication of winning an incentive during play of an online game. In another example, the player may be required to obtain the winnings at the casino to encourage players to return to the casino. | 11-10-2011 |
20120202590 | SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING GAMING ACTIVITY - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a gaming device configured to record gaming activity, a method of processing the recorded gaming activity to analyze player behavior, and a system including the gaming device. The gaming device may include a gaming display to display gaming events played on the gaming device by a player during a gaming session, a player interface panel including a plurality of gaming buttons and a game initiating button configured to initiate the gaming events, and a game processor configured to record each activity between the player and the gaming device, wherein each recorded activity is associated with a time stamp. | 08-09-2012 |
20120238353 | System and Method for Collecting and Using Player Information - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 09-20-2012 |
20120244933 | DEGRESSIVE BONUS SYSTEM - Embodiments of the invention include a mystery degressive bonus system. Instead of a bonus that increases its value as the likelihood of winning the bonus increases, embodiments of the invention disconnect the likelihood of winning a mystery bonus from the amount awarded for triggering the mystery bonus. In some embodiments as the likelihood of winning the mystery bonus increases, the award for winning the mystery bonus decreases. Some embodiments include a minimum value for winning the mystery bonus. Additional embodiments are directed to an indicator system to show to the player a present amount of the mystery bonus award as well as the likelihood of winning the award. Further embodiments include a gaming device that includes a bonus game in which the amount awarded to the player decreases over time. | 09-27-2012 |
20120329550 | BONUS WITH PROXIMITY OF OCCURRENCE RELATED TO BASE GAME OUTCOMES OR PAYBACK PERCENTAGE - Each play of a base game increases the likelihood of winning a bonus award. A display provides a graphical indication of the change in likelihood of winning the bonus award. In one aspect, the bonus award comprises the opportunity to play a secondary game. In another aspect, winning the bonus award may be based on payback percentage or outcomes of the base game. In yet another aspect, the timing of the next bonus award can be configured, or otherwise based on one or more conditions. | 12-27-2012 |
20130090750 | System and Method for Collecting and Using Player Information - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. | 04-11-2013 |
20130172073 | System and Method for Collecting and Using Player Information - A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information, Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a to player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player, | 07-04-2013 |
20130303249 | SHARED GAME PLAY ON GAMING DEVICE - Embodiments of the present concept provide an electronic gaming device that facilitates wagering by multiple players on a single gaming device. Also provided is a method of sharing game play on such a gaming device, where the method includes receiving a wager from a first player at a first gaming station, receiving a wager from a second player at a second gaming station, initiating a gaming event that is displayed at the first and second gaming stations, and awarding prizes associated with gaming outcomes displayed at the first and second gaming stations. | 11-14-2013 |
20140106866 | Method and Apparatus for Providing Player Incentives - A system and method is provided for incentivizing players to visit a gambling location. In one aspect, a qualified person is invited to play an electronic game which has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome. In one embodiment, the qualified person may be required to redeem the outcome at the gambling location. In another embodiment, the person may be required to redeem the outcome at a redemption location. In another aspect, a method is provided for permitting a person to take one or more actions within a gambling location and in response inviting the person to play an electronic game separate from the games offered in a gambling environment at the gambling location, where the game has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome, and if the person obtains a winning outcome, requiring the person to redeem the at least one outcome at the gambling location. In one embodiment, the method includes the acts of qualifying a person. Qualification may require specific acts, for example, referring another person, and/or providing an invitation to play an electronic game to another person. Various systems and method assist in tracking and maintaining such referrals. Additionally group gaming in and amongst referrals and/or designated groups may be performed, and in some embodiment required for qualification and/or redemption. Further, another aspect relates to providing special incentives, for example for referral of a new player, for providing casino affiliation or membership information, among others. | 04-17-2014 |