Patent Grant
10417861
The present disclosure relates to wager-based gaming technology. More particularly, the present disclosure relates techniques for implementing dynamic configuration of wager-based gaming rules and alternative gaming offerings implemented via computer networks.
Online gaming has attempted to bring the casino experience into the home, and many different websites and downloadable applications are available to play many varieties of games, including but not limited to blackjack, poker, baccarat, roulette, craps, dice, etc. However, online gaming presents risks for remote players and also presents various types of consumer protection regulatory issues. For example, the ownership and gaming jurisdictions from which the host online casino is operating is not always easily transparent to the remote player. It also is very difficult, to determine the integrity of the games offered for play, and/or the integrity of a particular virtual shoe used by online casinos offering games of chance.
Online gaming also has its risks for the game provider, since many online casinos risk violating the law by accepting wagers from remote players who are minors, or who are located in countries or states where one or more forms of online gambling are illegal. Online casinos face difficulty in verifying the age and location of the remote player, both of which may be essential to verify that the player has a legitimate right to play games on the website.
Various aspects described or referenced herein are directed to different methods, systems, and computer program products for implementing dynamic configuration of wager-based gaming rules and alternative gaming offerings implemented via computer networks.
One aspect disclosed herein is directed to different methods, systems, and computer program products for Dynamic Generation Of Modified Game/Wager Parameters. According to different embodiments, various method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be operable to cause at least one processor to execute a plurality of instructions for: controlling a first multi-player, wager-based game (“first wager-based game”) conducted at a first location associated with a first jurisdiction, the first jurisdiction having associated therewith a first set of game/wager parameters governing gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first location which relate to the first wager-based game; receiving a first request for enabling a first remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the first remote player being located at a second geographic location associated with a second jurisdiction, the second jurisdiction having associated therewith a second set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the second geographic location; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a first modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters; if the first modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the first remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the first modified game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in first wager-based game. In some embodiments, the first modified game/wager parameter set includes at least one parameter selected from a group consisting of: time limit per play, amount per wager, minimum wager, maximum wager, rules to facilitate speed of game play, payout rules, paytable rules, game play rules, and wagering rules.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a third geographic location associated with a third jurisdiction, the third jurisdiction having associated therewith a third set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters; if the second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game concurrently with the first remote player, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the second modified game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game;
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: enforcing the first modified game/wager parameter set with respect to gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in a first gaming session of the first wager-based game; and enforcing the second modified game/wager parameter set with respect to gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the second remote player's participation in the first gaming session of the first wager-based game.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a third geographic location associated with a third jurisdiction, the third jurisdiction having associated therewith a third set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location; determining timing information relating to a time when the first and second remote players are likely to be participating in the first wager-based game; analyzing the timing information, the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters, based on the time when the first and the second remote players are likely to be participating in the first wager-based game; if the second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game concurrently with the first remote player, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the second modified game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game.
In at least some embodiments: the first set of game/wager parameters includes first jurisdiction rules and/or regulations governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring in the first jurisdiction; the second set of game/wager parameters includes second jurisdiction rules and/or regulations governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring in the second jurisdiction; and the third set of game/wager parameters includes third jurisdiction rules and/or regulations governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring in the third jurisdiction.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: determining the second geographic location as the first remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the first player's geographic location, that the first remote player's wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the second geographic location are governed by the second set of game/wager parameters; accessing the second set of game/wager parameters; determining the third geographic location as the second remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the second player's geographic location, that the second remote player's wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location are governed by the third set of game/wager parameters; and accessing the third set of game/wager parameters.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: determining the first location as the geographic location where the first wager-based game is being hosted; determining, using information relating to the first location, that gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first location which relate to the first wager-based game are governed by the first set of game/wager parameters; accessing the first set of game/wager parameters; determining the second geographic location as the first remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the first player's geographic location, that the first remote player's wager-based game and/or wagering activities at the second geographic location are governed by the second set of game/wager parameters; accessing the second set of game/wager parameters; determining the third geographic location as the second remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the second player's geographic location, that the second remote player's wager-based game and/or wagering activities at the third geographic location are governed by the third set of game/wager parameters; and accessing the third set of game/wager parameters.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for automatically preventing the first remote player from participating in the first wager-based game if no modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: (i) automatically preventing the first remote player from participating in the first wager-based game, and (ii) presenting the first remote player with at least one opportunity to participate in at least one alternative gaming offerings which is compliant with the second set of game/wager parameters, if no modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a third geographic location associated with a third jurisdiction, the third jurisdiction having associated therewith a third set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters; if the second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game concurrently with the first remote player, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the second modified game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game; if no modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters: (i) automatically preventing the first remote player from participating in the first wager-based game, and (ii) presenting the first remote player with at least one opportunity to participate in at least one alternative gaming offering which is compliant with the second set of game/wager parameters; and if no modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) automatically preventing the second remote player from participating in the first wager-based game, and (ii) presenting the second remote player with at least one opportunity to participate in at least one alternative gaming offering which is compliant with the third set of game/wager parameters. In at least some embodiments, the first wager-based game corresponds to a live, multi-player table game conducted at a live game table at the first location.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a third geographic location associated with a third jurisdiction, the third jurisdiction having associated therewith a third set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters; if the second modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game concurrently with the first remote player, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the second modified game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game; wherein the first wager-based game corresponds to a multi-player game conducted at the first location; and wherein the first wager-based game is configured or designed to enable the first remote player and the second remote player to participate in a same gaming session of the first wager-based game.
Another aspect disclosed herein is directed to different methods, systems, and computer program products for Dynamic Harmonization Of Game/Wager Parameters. According to different embodiments, various method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be operable to cause at least one processor to execute a plurality of instructions for: controlling a first multi-player, wager-based game (“first wager-based game”) conducted at a first location associated with a first jurisdiction, the first jurisdiction having associated therewith a first set of game/wager parameters governing gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first location which relate to the first wager-based game; receiving a first request for enabling a first remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the first remote player being located at a second geographic location associated with a second jurisdiction, the second jurisdiction having associated therewith a second set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the second geographic location; receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a third geographic location associated with a third jurisdiction, the third jurisdiction having associated therewith a third set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location; analyzing the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a first common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters; if the first common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the first and second remote players to concurrently participate in the first wager-based game, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the first common game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in first wager-based game and/or the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game. In some embodiments, the first common game/wager parameter set includes at least one parameter selected from a group consisting of: time limit per play, amount per wager, minimum wager, maximum wager, rules to facilitate speed of game play, payout rules, paytable rules, game play rules, and wagering rules.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: enforcing the first common game/wager parameter set with respect to gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in a first gaming session of the first wager-based game; and enforcing the first common game/wager parameter set with respect to gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the second remote player's participation in the first gaming session of the first wager-based game.
In at least some embodiments: the first set of game/wager parameters includes first jurisdiction rules and/or regulations governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring in the first jurisdiction; the second set of game/wager parameters includes second jurisdiction rules and/or regulations governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring in the second jurisdiction; and the third set of game/wager parameters includes third jurisdiction rules and/or regulations governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring in the third jurisdiction.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: determining timing information relating to a time when the first and the second remote players are likely to be participating in the first wager-based game; determining whether the first common game/wager parameter set is compliant with the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters, based on the time when the first and the second remote players are likely to be participating in the first wager-based game.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: determining the second geographic location as the first remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the first player's geographic location, that the first remote player's wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the second geographic location are governed by the second set of game/wager parameters; accessing the second set of game/wager parameters; determining the third geographic location as the second remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the second player's geographic location, that the second remote player's wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location are governed by the third set of game/wager parameters; and accessing the third set of game/wager parameters.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: determining the first location as the geographic location where the first wager-based game is being hosted; determining, using information relating to the first location, that gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first location which relate to the first wager-based game are governed by the first set of game/wager parameters; accessing the first set of game/wager parameters; determining the second geographic location as the first remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the first player's geographic location, that the first remote player's wager-based game and/or wagering activities at the second geographic location are governed by the second set of game/wager parameters; accessing the second set of game/wager parameters; determining the third geographic location as the second remote player's geographic location; determining, using information relating to the second player's geographic location, that the second remote player's wager-based game and/or wagering activities at the third geographic location are governed by the third set of game/wager parameters; and accessing the third set of game/wager parameters.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for automatically preventing the first remote player from participating in the first wager-based game if no common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters, automatically preventing the first remote player from participating in the first wager-based game.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: (i) automatically preventing the first remote player from participating in the first wager-based game, and (ii) presenting the first remote player with at least one opportunity to participate in at least one alternative gaming offerings which is compliant with the second set of game/wager parameters, if no common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: controlling a first multi-player, wager-based game (“first wager-based game”) conducted at a first location associated with a first jurisdiction, the first jurisdiction having associated therewith a first set of game/wager parameters governing gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first location which relate to the first wager-based game; receiving a first request for enabling a first remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the first remote player being located at a second geographic location associated with a second jurisdiction, the second jurisdiction having associated therewith a second set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the second geographic location; receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a third geographic location associated with a third jurisdiction, the third jurisdiction having associated therewith a third set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters, second set of game/wager parameters, and the third set of game/wager parameters to identify a first common game/wager parameter set which is compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters; if the first common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the first and second remote players to concurrently participate in the first wager-based game, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the first common game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in first wager-based game and/or the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for automatically preventing the first and second remote players from concurrently participating in the first wager-based game, if no common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters,
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: controlling a first multi-player, wager-based game (“first wager-based game”) conducted at a first location associated with a first jurisdiction, the first jurisdiction having associated therewith a first set of game/wager parameters governing gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first location which relate to the first wager-based game; receiving a first request for enabling a first remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the first remote player being located at a second geographic location associated with a second jurisdiction, the second jurisdiction having associated therewith a second set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the second geographic location; receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a third geographic location associated with a third jurisdiction, the third jurisdiction having associated therewith a third set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the third geographic location; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a first common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters; if the first common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the first and second remote players to concurrently participate in the first wager-based game, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the first common game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in first wager-based game and/or the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game. In some embodiments, the first common game/wager parameter set includes at least one parameter selected from a group consisting of: time limit per play, amount per wager, minimum wager, maximum wager, rules to facilitate speed of game play, payout rules, paytable rules, game play rules, and wagering rules.
Additional method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be further operable to cause at least one processor to execute additional instructions for: enforcing the first common game/wager parameter set with respect to gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in first wager-based game; and enforcing the first common game/wager parameter set with respect to gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the second remote player's participation in first wager-based game.
Another aspect disclosed herein is directed to different methods, systems, and computer program products for Dynamic Generation Of Modified Game/Wager Parameters in Online Gaming Environments. According to different embodiments, various method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be operable to cause at least one processor to execute a plurality of instructions for: controlling a first multi-player, online wager-based game (“first online wager-based game”); receiving a first request for enabling a first remote player to remotely participate in the first online wager-based game, the first remote player being located at a first geographic location associated with a first jurisdiction, the first jurisdiction having associated therewith a first set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first geographic location; identifying a second set of game/wager parameters governing gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first online wager-based game; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a first modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters; if the first modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the first remote player to remotely participate in the first online wager-based game, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the first modified game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in first online wager-based game; and if no modified game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters and the second set of game/wager parameters: (i) automatically preventing the first remote player from participating in the first wager-based game.
Another aspect disclosed herein is directed to different methods, systems, and computer program products for Dynamic Harmonization Of Game/Wager Parameters in Online Gaming Environments. According to different embodiments, various method(s), system(s) and/or computer program product(s) may be operable to cause at least one processor to execute a plurality of instructions for: controlling a first multi-player, online wager-based game (“first online wager-based game”); receiving a first request for enabling a first remote player to remotely participate in the first online wager-based game, the first remote player being located at a first geographic location associated with a first jurisdiction, the first jurisdiction having associated therewith a first set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the first geographic location; receiving a second request for enabling a second remote player to remotely participate in the first online wager-based game, the second remote player being located at a second geographic location associated with a second jurisdiction, the second jurisdiction having associated therewith a second set of game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming and/or wagering activities occurring at the second geographic location; identifying a third set of game/wager parameters governing gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first online wager-based game; analyzing the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters, and the third set of game/wager parameters to determine whether a first common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters, and the third set of game/wager parameters; if the first common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters, and the third set of game/wager parameters: (i) enabling the first and second remote players to concurrently participate in the first online wager-based game, and (ii) governing, in accordance with the first common game/wager parameter set, gaming and/or wagering activities relating to the first remote player's participation in first online wager-based game and/or the second remote player's participation in first online wager-based game; and if no common game/wager parameter set is identified as being compliant with the first set of game/wager parameters, the second set of game/wager parameters, and the third set of game/wager parameters, automatically preventing the first and second remote players from concurrently participating in the first wager-based game.
Various objects, features and advantages of the various aspects described or referenced herein will become apparent from the following descriptions of its example embodiments, which descriptions should be taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Various techniques will now be described in detail with reference to a few example embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more aspects and/or features described or reference herein. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that one or more aspects and/or features described or reference herein may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps and/or structures have not been described in detail in order to not obscure some of the aspects and/or features described or reference herein.
One or more different inventions may be described in the present application. Further, for one or more of the invention(s) described herein, numerous embodiments may be described in this patent application, and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not intended to be limiting in any sense. One or more of the invention(s) may be widely applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from the disclosure. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice one or more of the invention(s), and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural, logical, software, electrical and other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the one or more of the invention(s). Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that the one or more of the invention(s) may be practiced with various modifications and alterations. Particular features of one or more of the invention(s) may be described with reference to one or more particular embodiments or figures that form a part of the present disclosure, and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments of one or more of the invention(s). It should be understood, however, that such features are not limited to usage in the one or more particular embodiments or figures with reference to which they are described. The present disclosure is neither a literal description of all embodiments of one or more of the invention(s) nor a listing of features of one or more of the invention(s) that must be present in all embodiments.
Headings of sections provided in this patent application and the title of this patent application are for convenience only, and are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way.
Devices that are in communication with each other need not be in continuous communication with each other, unless expressly specified otherwise. In addition, devices that are in communication with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.
A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. To the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of one or more of the invention(s).
Further, although process steps, method steps, algorithms or the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes, methods and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described in this patent application does not, in and of itself, indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of described processes may be performed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously despite being described or implied as occurring non-simultaneously (e.g., because one step is described after the other step). Moreover, the illustration of a process by its depiction in a drawing does not imply that the illustrated process is exclusive of other variations and modifications thereto, does not imply that the illustrated process or any of its steps are necessary to one or more of the invention(s), and does not imply that the illustrated process is preferred.
When a single device or article is described, it will be readily apparent that more than one device/article (whether or not they cooperate) may be used in place of a single device/article. Similarly, where more than one device or article is described (whether or not they cooperate), it will be readily apparent that a single device/article may be used in place of the more than one device or article.
The functionality and/or the features of a device may be alternatively embodied by one or more other devices that are not explicitly described as having such functionality/features. Thus, other embodiments of one or more of the invention(s) need not include the device itself. Further, techniques and mechanisms described or reference herein will sometimes be described in singular form for clarity. However, it should be noted that particular embodiments include multiple iterations of a technique or multiple instantiations of a mechanism unless noted otherwise.
Various aspects described herein are directed to different techniques for implementing dynamic configuration of wager-based gaming rules across multiple gaming jurisdictions. Other aspects described herein are directed to different techniques for providing alternative offerings of wager-based games across multiple gaming jurisdictions.
In at least one embodiment, the various dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and alternative offering techniques described herein may be implemented in remote wager-based gaming environments to facilitate players from different gaming jurisdictions in remotely participating in wager-based gaming activities conducted in remote jurisdictions.
According to different embodiments, there are several approaches which may be utilized for implementing one or more dynamic game/wager configuration techniques, including, for example:
One dynamic game/wager configuration technique involves generating a respective set of modified game/wager parameters (e.g., bet size, pay table, bonus trigger, wild card, etc.) to comply with (or which satisfy) the respective gaming rules and regulations at each location or jurisdiction where a wager takes place (e.g., by a remote player in that location/jurisdiction) and, if applicable, where the game is being hosted. In some embodiments, this technique may be referred to as “dynamic generation of modified game/wager parameters”. This technique enables multiple different players from multiple different jurisdictions to concurrently participate (e.g., remotely participate) in the same wager-based game (or to concurrently participate in the same wager-based gaming session), where different sets of modified rules are applied to different players (or groups of players) who are participating in the wager-based game.
According to different embodiments, the dynamic generation of modified game/wager parameters technique may be particularly appropriate for use with wager-based games such as table games which do not require player interactions, decisions, and/or input during the game play. For example, the dynamic generation of modified game/wager parameters technique may be particularly suitable for use with wager-based games in which the final game outcome is not influenced by the player's input during play of the game. Examples of such wager-based games may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof): Baccarat, Sic Bo, Pai Gow, Bingo, Keno and the like.
In at least one embodiment, the dynamic generation of modified game/wager parameters technique may involve creating and enforcing a respective modified version of the game/wager parameters of an identified wager-based game to satisfy the respective jurisdictional requirements of each location/jurisdiction of each remotely participating player's location. In addition, each of the respective modified versions of the game/wager parameters should preferably satisfy the local (e.g., casino's) game/wager rules which are in effect at the location where the wager-based game is conducted or hosted, and at the time the wagers are placed.
In at least one embodiment, the dynamic generation of modified game/wager parameters technique may be similarly employed whenever a new remote player desires to join the wager-based game. For example, in one embodiment, when a new remote player desires to join the wager-based game and the game/wager rules and regulations of new player's jurisdiction are determined to be in conflict with the local game/wager rules which are in effect at the location where the wager-based game is conducted or hosted, the Gaming Network (or components/systems thereof) may dynamically determine and apply a modified set of game/wager parameters/rules to enable the new remote player to join the wager-based game.
Dynamic Harmonization of Game/Wager Parameters
Another dynamic game/wager configuration technique involves creating a “common” or “universal” set of modified game/wager parameters (e.g., bet size, pay table, bonus trigger, wild card, etc.) which comply with (or which satisfy) all of the different gaming/wagering rules and regulations associated with each respective location or jurisdiction where a wager may take place (e.g., by a remote player in that location/jurisdiction) and, if applicable, where the game is being hosted. In some embodiments, this technique may be referred to as “dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters.” In one embodiment, the dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters technique may be automatically implemented by one or more component(s)/system(s) of the Gaming Network by finding the least-common-denominator(s) of game/wager parameters that will satisfy all jurisdictions of the remote players simultaneously. For example, in one embodiment, the Gaming Network (and/or component(s)/system(s) thereof) may examine the rules/regulations from each remote player's jurisdiction, and identify and/or determine a common set of rules (to be applied to all remote players participating in the wager-based game) which simultaneously satisfies all the rules/regulations of the various remote jurisdictions associated with the remote players. In one embodiment, the identified common set of rules may be disclosed to all remote players participating in the same wager-based gaming session, prior to start of the game session.
The dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters technique enables multiple different players from multiple different jurisdictions to concurrently participate (e.g., remotely participate) in the same wager-based game (or to concurrently participate in the same wager-based gaming session), where a single “common” set of modified rules are applied to all remote players (and possibly also local players) who are participating in the wager-based game.
According to different embodiments, the dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters technique may be particularly appropriate for use with wager-based games which require player interactions, decisions, and/or input during the game play. For example, the dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters technique may be particularly suitable for use with wager-based games in which the final game outcome is influenced by the player's input during play of the game, and/or in which all players must use the same game parameters to participate. Examples of such wager-based games may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof): Poker, Black Jack, Craps, Mahjong, and the like. For example, a poker game may have a game parameter where a cap of 10× the minimum bet is imposed on the amount which a player can raise the ante.
In at least one embodiment, the dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters technique may involve creating and enforcing, for all remote players participating in an identified wager-based game, a modified “universal” version of the game/wager parameters for the identified wager-based game which satisfies all of the different gaming/wagering rules and regulations associated with each remote player's location. In addition, the modified “universal” version of the game/wager parameters should preferably satisfy the local (e.g., casino's) game/wager rules which are in effect at the location where the wager-based game is conducted/hosted, and at the time the wagers are placed.
According to different embodiments, the wager-based game (e.g., in which one or more remote players from different jurisdictions may be concurrently participating) may correspond to one of a variety of different game types and/or game themes, such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In at least some embodiments, the dynamic game rule configuration techniques and/or alternative offering techniques disclosed herein enable casino venues to provide opportunities for their players/patrons to participate in live, competitive, multi-player wager-based games (e.g., such as, for example, card games, table games, and/or electronic games) where players from different casinos and/or different geographic jurisdictions are able to simultaneously compete against one another in a live, multi-player, virtual gaming environment. In at least one embodiment, players can be located at the same and/or at remote gaming venues that are connected via a wide area network such as the Internet, cellular networks, VPNs, cloud-based networks, etc.
In at least one embodiment, when a new remote player desires to join the wager-based game (or wager-based gaming session), the Gaming Network (and/or component(s)/system(s) thereof) may be configured or designed to respond in a variety of different ways, such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
According to different embodiments, there are several different parameters which may preferably be considered when implementing dynamic game/wager configuration using the multiple sets of modified game/wager parameters technique and/or common set of modified game/wager parameters technique. Examples of such parameters may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In some embodiments, a “Location” may have associated therewith a plurality of sub-location parameters, such as, for example:
According to different embodiments, the Location parameter(s) (both Macro and Micro) and Time parameter(s) may be used by the Gaming Network to automatically and/or dynamically determine how many sets of game/wager parameters need to be harmonized.
According to different embodiments, at least a portion of the various types of functions, operations, actions, and/or other features provided by the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be implemented at one or more gaming device(s), at one or more server systems(s), and/or combinations thereof. In at least one embodiment, the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be operable to perform and/or implement various types of functions, operations, actions, and/or other features such as one or more of those described and/or referenced herein.
In at least one embodiment, the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be operable to utilize and/or generate various different types of data and/or other types of information when performing specific tasks and/or operations. This may include, for example, input data/information and/or output data/information. For example, in at least one embodiment, the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be operable to access, process, and/or otherwise utilize information from one or more different types of sources, such as, for example, one or more local and/or remote memories, devices and/or systems. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be operable to generate one or more different types of output data/information, which, for example, may be stored in memory of one or more local and/or remote devices and/or systems. In at least one embodiment, a given instance of one or more of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may access and/or utilize information from one or more associated databases. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the database information may be accessed via communication with one or more local and/or remote memory devices.
According to specific embodiments, multiple instances or threads of one or more of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be concurrently implemented and/or initiated via the use of one or more processors and/or other combinations of hardware and/or hardware and software. For example, in at least some embodiments, various aspects, features, and/or functionalities of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be performed, implemented and/or initiated by one or more of the various systems, components, systems, devices, procedures, processes, etc., described and/or referenced herein. According to different embodiments, one or more different threads or instances of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be initiated in response to detection of one or more conditions or events satisfying one or more different types of minimum threshold criteria for triggering initiation of at least one instance of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein. According to different embodiments, one or more different threads or instances of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be initiated and/or implemented manually, automatically, statically, dynamically, concurrently, and/or combinations thereof. Additionally, different instances and/or embodiments of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be initiated at one or more different time intervals (e.g., during a specific time interval, at regular periodic intervals, at irregular periodic intervals, upon demand, etc.).
In at least one embodiment, initial configuration of a given instance of one or more of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may be performed using one or more different types of initialization parameters. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the initialization parameters may be accessed via communication with one or more local and/or remote memory devices. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the initialization parameters provided to an instance one or more of the Dynamic Game Rule Configuration and/or Alternative Offering Procedures described herein may correspond to and/or may be derived from the input data/information.
As shown at 1004, the Gaming Network may access a first set of game/wager parameters governing play of wager-based games at Player A's geographic location, which, for example, may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1006, the Gaming Network may access a second set of game/wager parameters governing play of the identified wager-based game at Location B, which, for example, may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In some embodiments, the accessed game/wager parameter information may be stored (and retrieved from) one or more local and/or remote databases such as, for example, Jurisdictional/Casino Game/Wager Parameters, Monitoring & Enforcement System 150
In some embodiments, the wager-based game may be conducted or hosted at physical locations (e.g., within Location B) which is not part of a casino property. For example, in some embodiments, the wager-based game may be conducted or hosted at a broadcasting studio, a game server, and/or other non-casino entity within Location B. In such situations, there may be no applicable casino game/wager parameters governing the wager-based game conducted or hosted at Location B. However, there may still be local jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing the wager-based game conducted or hosted at Location B.
As shown at 1008, the Gaming Network may automatically analyze the accessed game/wager parameter information in order to determine whether are any conflicting game/wager parameters which would prohibit or prevent Player A from to remotely participating in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B.
If it is determined that there are not any conflicting game/wager parameters which would prohibit or prevent Player A from to remotely participating in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B, the Gaming Network may permit or enable (1010) Player A to remotely participate in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B.
Alternatively, if it is determined that there are conflicting game/wager parameters which would prohibit or prevent Player A from to remotely participating in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B, the Gaming Network may respond by initiating (1012) one or more Dynamic Game/Wager Rule Configuration/Alternative Offering Procedure(s) to determine: (i) whether a modified set of game/wager rules can be identified and implemented for permitting Player A to participate in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B; and/or (ii) whether any suitable Alternative Offerings can be identified and presented to Player A. Examples of different Dynamic Game/Wager Rule Configuration Procedures are illustrated and described in further detail with respect to
As illustrated in the example embodiment of
Alternatively, if the Gaming Network is able to identify (1016) a modified set of game/wager rules for permitting Player A to participate in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B, then the Gaming Network may respond by taking action to allow/enable (1022) Player A to participate in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B using a modified set of game/wager rules.
Alternatively, if the Gaming Network is not able to identify (1018) a modified set of game/wager rules for permitting Player A to participate in the identified wager-based game occurring at Location B, but is able to identify one or more Alternative Offering(s) to be presented to Player A, then the Gaming Network may respond by taking action to:
Examples of various types of Alternative Offering which may be presented to Player A may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In other embodiments, one or more Alternative Offerings may be presented to players/patrons in various other circumstances in which the Gaming Network determines that a given player/patron is unable to participate in an identified wager-based game. Examples of such other circumstances may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1104, the Gaming Network may facilitate, enable, initiate, and/or perform one or more of the following operation(s), action(s), and/or feature(s) (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1106, the Gaming Network may access jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming activity at the identified remote player's location (Location A), which, for example, may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1108, the Gaming Network may determine whether there are there any remote casino game/wager parameters governing identified remote player's participation in the identified wager-based game. Such a situation may occur, for example, if Player A is located within a casino (Casino A) at Location A, and is using one of Casino A's electronic gaming terminals (EGT) to remotely participate in the wager-based game conducted (or hosted) at Casino B (at Location B). In contrast, if Player A is not physically located at a casino property, and is using a personal computer, tablet, or mobile device to participate (e.g., via the Internet or other wide area network) in the identified wager-based game (at Casino B), there may be local and/or national regulations for online gaming. In some cases, there may be no applicable remote casino game/wager parameters governing Player A's wager-based gaming activity at Location A.
If it is determined that there are there any remote casino game/wager parameters governing identified remote player's participation in the identified wager-based game, the Gaming Network may respond by accessing the remote casino (Casino A) game/wager parameters governing identified remote player's participation in the identified wager-based game. Additionally, in some embodiments, the Gaming Network may also access (e.g., from Casino A's Gaming Network) Player Class (or Player Status) information relating to Player A.
As shown at 1112, the Gaming Network may access the identified casino's (Casino B, at the second location) game/wager parameters which will be in effect for governing play of the identified wager-based game at the day and time that Player A will be (or is likely to be) participating in the identified wager-based game. Additionally, the Gaming Network may access (e.g., from Casino B's Gaming Network) Player Class information relating to Player A.
As shown at 1114, the Gaming Network may access jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming activities conducted at the second location. In at least some embodiments (such as those involving online gaming, for example), the jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing the wager-based gaming activities may be determined based on various factors such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1116, the Gaming Network may automatically analyze the accessed game/wager parameters, and dynamically generate a customized local game/wager rule set for the identified remote player (Player A). Additionally, in some embodiments, the Gaming Network may also associate the customized local game/wager rule set with a Player ID that is uniquely associated with Player A.
As shown at 1118, the Gaming Network may apply the customized local game/wager rule set to all gaming and wagering activities relating to (or involving) Player A's participation in the identified wager-based game. Thus, for example, in one embodiment, every game interaction occurring in the identified wager-based game, whether by a remote player or by the dealer/house, may first be verified against the customized local game/wager rule set for conflicts and/or compatibility.
In at least one embodiment, a separate thread or instance of the Dynamic Generation Of Modified Game/Wager Parameters Procedure may be automatically initiated for each remote player that requests to participate in the identified wager-based game at Location B. In this way, the Dynamic Generation Of Modified Game/Wager Parameters technique enables players from different geographic regions to concurrently participate in wager-based game play (e.g., in the same gaming session and/or at the same gaming table of Casino B) in a manner which is compliant with each remote player's respective jurisdictional rules and casino rules.
As shown at 1204, the Gaming Network may facilitate, enable, initiate, and/or perform one or more of the following operation(s), action(s), and/or feature(s) (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1206, the Gaming Network may access jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming activity at the respective location of each of the plurality of remote players, which, for example, may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1208, the Gaming Network may determine whether there any remote casino game/wager parameters governing any of the remote players' participation in the identified wager-based game. Such a situation may occur, for example, if some of the remote players are located within different casinos at their different, respective locations. If it is determined that there are any remote casino game/wager parameters governing any of the remote players' participation in the identified wager-based game, the Gaming Network may respond by accessing the appropriate casino game/wager parameters governing the remote players who are located within different casinos at their respective locations. Additionally, in some embodiments, the Gaming Network may also access respective Player Class information relating to each of the plurality of remote players.
As shown at 1212, the Gaming Network may access the identified casino's (Casino B, at the second location) game/wager parameters which will be in effect for governing play of the identified wager-based game at the day and time that each of the plurality of remote players will be (or are likely to be) participating in the identified wager-based game. Additionally, the Gaming Network may access (e.g., from Casino B's Gaming Network) Player Class information relating to each of the plurality of remote players
As shown at 1214, the Gaming Network may access jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing wager-based gaming activities conducted at the second location. In at least some embodiments (such as those involving online gaming, for example), the jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing the wager-based gaming activities may be determined based on various factors such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1216, the Gaming Network may automatically analyze the accessed game/wager parameters, and dynamically generate a modified “universal” game/wager rule set to be applied to the plurality of remote players who will be simultaneously or concurrently participating in the same gaming session of the identified wager-based game. Additionally, in some embodiments, the Gaming Network may also associate the “universal” game/wager rule set with each respective Player ID that is uniquely associated with each of the plurality of remote players.
As shown at 1218, the Gaming Network may apply the “universal” game/wager rule set to all gaming and wagering activities relating to (or involving) any of the plurality of remote players' participation in the identified wager-based game. Thus, for example, in one embodiment, every game interaction occurring in the identified wager-based game, whether by a remote player or by the dealer/house, may first be verified against the “universal” game/wager rule set for conflicts and/or compatibility.
In at least one embodiment, a separate thread or instance of the Dynamic Harmonization Of Game/Wager Parameters Procedure may be automatically initiated for each remote player that requests to participate in the identified wager-based game at Location B. In this way, the dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters technique enables multiple different players from multiple different jurisdictions to concurrently participate (e.g., remotely participate) in the same wager-based game (or to concurrently participate in the same wager-based gaming session) using a single “universal” (or “common”) set of modified game/wager rules, which are applied to all remote players (and possibly also local players) who are participating in the wager-based game.
As illustrated in the example embodiment of
In at least one embodiment, player 1402 may use the EGT 1410 to remotely participate in one or more live, multiplayer, wager-based, virtual table game sessions, which may be conducted at different casinos at different locations. In at least some embodiments, the virtual table game sessions may include streamed video or video+audio feed of the other remote player(s) participating in those gaming sessions (e.g., who are also participating in the gaming sessions via their respective EGTs). The audio/video feed(s) for a given player participant may be captured by the camera and microphone of that player's EGT. In this way, the EGT provides functionality for enabling the players of a given gaming session to converse with each other during game play, and may also provide functionality for enabling players to view the facial expressions and behaviors of other players during game play (which, for example, may be advantageously used in bluffing type games such as poker).
In some embodiments, players may be prevented from viewing the other participating players, and/or prevented from knowing the identity of the other players in a given live virtual table game session. For example, in one embodiment, the system may assign a random player name to each respective player at the commencement of each new gaming session or round of play in order to prevent or discourage cheating among colluding players.
The following example is intended to help illustrate some of the various types of functions, operations, actions, and/or other features which may be provided by the dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and/or alternative offering techniques described herein.
A casino patron desires to engage in a live, multiplayer, wager-based, virtual table poker game, and sits down at an electronic game terminal which is located in a gaming area of the casino. The player swipes his player card (or inserts an amount of cash or credit voucher), then proceeds to select a game to play. The player selects a multiplayer Poker game option, with a live dealer, and a $5 minimum bet. All available live tables meeting the player's preferences are displayed at the EGT. The player selects one live table via interaction with the EGTs touchscreen display. The game server constructs a virtual table, and streams the “live” video feed of the selected live table to the player EGT. The virtual table includes a display of a live video feed of the live dealer who is conducting the game play at the live table. In some embodiments, the virtual table includes a live video or video+audio feed of the other remote players to be participating in the poker game session at the virtual table. In at least one embodiment, each of the players may be participating remotely from their respective EGT (or other suitable gaming machine). In at least one embodiment, the player's EGT shows that there are other anonymous players occupying seats at the virtual table. In one embodiment, the virtual table GUI may be presented at the player's EGT display for enabling the player to use a virtual camera to observe (e.g., by panning/zooming) the virtual table and to observe representations of the remote players who are occupying seats at the virtual table. The player may also be presented with additional information relating to the virtual table game rules such as, for example: min/max wagers, game type, total number of decks/cards to be used in game play, previous game history relating to that specific live game table, paytables, game rules, etc. In at least one embodiment, if the player elects to participate in game play at the selected virtual table, the player is given an opportunity to choose an open seat at the virtual table. In one embodiment, the live virtual table game session commences when the system determines that are a sufficient number of players to start the active game session. In other embodiments, the live virtual table game session may commence at a predetermined time, or upon the expiration of a predetermined time interval (e.g., game play will start in 60 seconds).
In at least one embodiment, each EGT is physically located in an approved gaming area of one or more real-world casino venues. By deploying the EGTs within the casino gaming area, real-world casino venues are able to securely and legally provide opportunities for their players/patrons to participate in live, competitive, wager-based card games and wager-based table games where players from the same and/or different casinos are able to compete against one another in live, multiplayer, virtual game table environments. In at least one embodiment, players can be located at the same and/or at remote casino venues that are connected via a wide area network such as the Internet, cellular networks, VPNs, cloud-based networks, etc.
In at least one embodiment, the live, multiplayer, wager-based, virtual table games use live game tables and live dealers/attendants for conducting the live, multiplayer, wager-based, virtual table games. In at least some embodiments, each of the EGTs is remotely located from the live game table dealer/attendant. Examples of various types of live virtual table games which may be played may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof): “Heads Up” type card games (e.g., where players compete either 1-on-1 or player vs. casino/house/computer opponent); poker, Blackjack, Baccarat, Mahjong, Dou DI Zhu (), chess-type games, etc.
In at least one embodiment, the live virtual table game sessions may be remotely conducted using physical playing cards and/or using physical or live game table equipment (e.g., physical dice, live roulette wheels, etc.). In at least some embodiments, the randomness of card distribution to players participating in a live virtual table game session is achieved via live shuffling of physical cards at the live game table, and is not implemented using computerized random number generation (RNG). The live game table may include an electronic shuffler which is configured or designed to automatically shuffle multiple decks of cards, and to track the relative order of each of the cards of the shuffled decks of cards. The live dealer may use the electronic shuffler to shuffle the decks of cards before dealing the required hands, and may place the shuffled decks of cards into the electronic shoe prior to dealing. In this way, the system may know at all times the relative order of all cards in the card shoe, and may therefore accurately determine card distributions to the participating players based on the known ordering of the cards in the electronic shoe. Similarly, in at least some embodiments, the game data (e.g., cards dealt, dice rolls, roulette wheel spin/ball landing, etc.) are generated by activities performed by a live game table dealer or attendant.
Alternatively, in other embodiments, the randomness of card distribution to players participating in a live virtual table game session is achieved using computerized random number generation (RNG) (e.g., via RNG-based virtual dealer operated by a game server). Similarly, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the game data (e.g., cards dealt, dice rolls, roulette wheel spin/ball landing, etc.) may be generated using computerized RNG techniques.
Although both poker gaming sessions are being played concurrently and independently using the same live game table, the same live dealer, and the same live game table video feed, it is possible for other aspects of each gaming session to differ from one another while still allowing both gaming sessions to use the same live game table, the same live dealer, and the same live game table video feed. Examples of at least some gaming session aspects which may be permitted to differ from one another may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In at least one embodiment, a multi-player gaming session involving one or more remote players may not be initiated until specified minimum threshold criteria has been satisfied. The Gaming Network may determine the minimum threshold criteria which is required (or preferred) for initiating the new gaming session. According to different embodiments, different types of multi-player wager-based games may have associated therewith different types of minimum threshold criteria which may need to be satisfied (or exceeded) in order to initiate a new gaming session. Examples of such minimum threshold criteria may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In some embodiments, the Gaming Network may determine or ascertain the current conditions and/or current criteria for initiating a wager-based multi-player game. The Gaming Network may then determine whether or not the current conditions and criteria for the identified multi-player game meet or exceed the minimum specified threshold criteria for initiating new game session of the identified multi-player game involving participation by one or more remote players. In one embodiment, if it is determined that current conditions and criteria of the identified multi-player game do not meet or exceed the minimum specified threshold criteria for initiating new game session, the Gaming Network may wait a predetermined time interval and then re-check the then current conditions and/or criteria for the identified multi-player game meet.
In at least one embodiment, when is determined that the current conditions and criteria for the identified multi-player game does meet or exceed the minimum specified threshold criteria for initiating new game session at the identified multi-player gaming session, the Gaming Network may determine the number of players who will be participating in the next game session of the multi-player game, and may further identify the relative positions of each player at the identified multi-player gaming session.
In some embodiments, the Gaming Network may attempt to identify and group together multiple different gaming sessions which have substantially similar starting conditions/criteria in order to enable multiple different gaming sessions (e.g., involving different groups of players from different locations) to be conducted, for example, using a common live game table and live dealer/attendant.
In some embodiments, the Gaming Network may poll one or more game servers to identify other multi-player gaming session(s) which may have starting conditions/criteria that are substantially similar to each other, and/or substantially similar to that of the identified multi-player game. Examples of different types of starting conditions/criteria which may be considered may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
Assuming that one or more additional multi-player game(s) have been identified which have starting conditions/criteria that are substantially similar to that of the identified multi-player game, all (or selected ones of) the identified multi-player game(s) with substantially similar start criteria may be grouped together in a single multi-player gaming session.
Similarly, in some embodiments, the Gaming Network may poll one or more game servers to identify other multi-player gaming session(s) which may have game/wager parameters that are substantially similar to each other, and/or substantially similar to that of the identified multi-player game. Assuming that one or more additional multi-player game(s) have been identified which have game/wager parameters that are substantially similar each other, all (or selected ones of) the identified multi-player game(s) with substantially similar game/wager parameters may be grouped together in a single multi-player gaming session. For example, a single, live game table (and accompanying live dealer/attendant) may be used to simultaneously host one or more remote gaming session involving one or more remote players (e.g., in addition to one or more local players at the live game table).
The following example scenarios help illustrate some of the various aspects and features of the dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and alternative offering techniques described herein.
Dynamic Game/Wager Configuration Example Scenario A
In a first example scenario, it is assumed that a remote player (Player A) is physically located in a first gaming jurisdiction (e.g., Jurisdiction A=California), and desires to remotely participate (e.g., via a computerized network) in a live Blackjack table game which is conducted at a casino that is physically located in a second gaming jurisdiction (e.g., Jurisdiction B=Nevada). Typically, in such a situation, there may exist numerous regulatory rules and restrictions (e.g., Federal, State, Regional, Local, etc.) which may prevent or disqualify the remote California player from remotely participating in the wager-based game conducted at the Nevada casino. For example, in one embodiment, in order for Player A to remotely participate in a live Blackjack table game which is conducted at a Nevada casino, at least the following conditions need to be satisfied:
In this particular example, it is assumed (for purposes of illustration) that the rules and regulations governing play of wager-based games at Player A's geographic location (e.g., California) permit the play of wager-based table games (such as Blackjack, Poker, Baccarat, etc.) and specify that the maximum wager in such wager-based table games cannot exceed $100. It is further assumed in this particular example scenario, that the Nevada casino's game rules and wagering rules/limits relating to the play of blackjack at the identified live blackjack gaming table allows for a maximum wager of $500. In this particular example scenario, it may not be permissible for Player A to remotely participate in the live blackjack table game being conducted at the Nevada casino's gaming table since, for example, the Nevada casino's game rules and wagering rules/limits relating may allow Player A to place a maximum wager which exceeds $100. However, in one embodiment, rather than simply rejecting Player A's request to participate in the live game of blackjack being conducted at gaming table of the Nevada casino, the Gaming Network may be configured or designed to automatically and dynamically initiate one or more Dynamic game/wager Configuration procedure(s) and/or Alternative Offering procedure(s) to determine: (i) whether a modified set of game/wager rules can be identified and implemented for permitting Player A to participate in the live game of blackjack being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino; and/or (ii) whether any suitable Alternative Offerings (e.g., alternative wager-based gaming activity offerings) can be identified and presented to Player A.
For example, in one embodiment, the Gaming Network (or one or more component(s) thereof, such as, for example, the Dynamic game/wager Configuration and Alternative Offering System 160) may be configured or designed to automatically and dynamically analyze: (i) the California rules, regulations, and wagering limits governing play of wager-based games at Player A's physical location, and (ii) the Nevada rules, regulations, and wagering limits relating to the play of blackjack at the identified live blackjack Nevada casino gaming table in order to identify a modified set of game/wager rules which can be implemented for permitting Player A to participate in the live game of blackjack currently being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In this particular example, the Gaming System may dynamically determine and generate a modified set of game/wager rules imposing a maximum wager amount of $100 in the live game of blackjack being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In one embodiment, this modified set of game/wager rules may be imposed only upon Player A (and/or other remote players from California), but may not be imposed upon other players who are concurrently participating (along with Player A) in the live blackjack game at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino such as for example, other remote players from other jurisdictions and/or local players who are physically present at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino.
In Example Scenario B, it is assumed that:
In at least one embodiment, the Gaming Network (or one or more component(s) thereof) may be configured or designed to automatically and dynamically analyze: (i) the California rules, regulations, and wagering limits governing play of wager-based games at Player A's physical location, and (ii) the Nevada rules, regulations, and wagering limits relating to the play of blackjack at the identified live blackjack Nevada casino gaming table in order to identify a first modified set of game/wager rules which can be implemented for permitting Player A to participate in the live game of blackjack currently being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In this particular example, the Gaming System may dynamically determine and generate the first modified set of game/wager rules imposing a maximum wager amount of $100 in the live game of blackjack being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In one embodiment, this first modified set of game/wager rules may be imposed only upon Player A (and/or other remote players from California), but may not be imposed upon other players who are concurrently participating (along with Player A) in the live blackjack game at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino such as for example, other remote players from other jurisdictions (e.g., Player B) and/or local players who are physically present at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino.
Similarly, the Gaming Network (or one or more component(s) thereof) may be configured or designed to automatically and dynamically analyze: (i) the Macau rules, regulations, and wagering limits governing play of wager-based games at Player B's physical location, and (ii) the Nevada rules, regulations, and wagering limits relating to the play of blackjack at the identified live blackjack Nevada casino gaming table in order to identify a second modified set of game/wager rules which can be implemented for permitting Player B to participate in the live game of blackjack currently being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In this particular example, the Gaming System may dynamically determine and generate the second modified set of game/wager rules imposing a maximum wager amount of $150 in the live game of blackjack being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In one embodiment, this second modified set of game/wager rules may be imposed only upon Player B (and/or other remote players from Macau), but may not be imposed upon other players who are concurrently participating (along with Player B) in the live blackjack game at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino such as for example, other remote players from other jurisdictions (e.g., Player A) and/or local players who are physically present at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino.
In a different embodiment, the Gaming Network (or one or more component(s) thereof) may be configured or designed to automatically and dynamically analyze: (i) the California rules, regulations, and wagering limits governing play of wager-based games at Player A's physical location; (ii) the Macau rules, regulations, and wagering limits governing play of wager-based games at Player B's physical location; and (iii) the Nevada rules, regulations, and wagering limits relating to the play of blackjack at the identified live blackjack Nevada casino gaming table, in order to identify a modified set of “universal” game/wager rules which can be implemented for permitting both Player A and Player B to participate in the live game of blackjack currently being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In this particular example, the Gaming System may automatically and dynamically determine that a maximum wager amount of $100 may allow both Player A and Player B to participate in the live game of blackjack currently being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. Accordingly, the Gaming System may dynamically determine and generate a “universal” modified set of game/wager rules imposing a maximum wager amount of $100 in the live game of blackjack being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In one embodiment, the “universal” modified set of game/wager rules may be imposed upon all remote players participating in the live game of blackjack being conducted at the identified gaming table of the Nevada casino. In another embodiment, the “universal” modified set of game/wager rules may be imposed upon only selected players or groups of players such as, for example, remote players from Macau and/or California.
In Example Scenario C, it is assumed that a plurality of players (e.g., 100 total players) from different jurisdictions (e.g., Nevada, New Jersey, Colorado, Sydney (AU), and Macau) wish to participate as remote players in a live Baccarat table game which is being conducted at a casino which is geographically located in a specific gaming jurisdiction (e.g., Nevada). In this example, it is further assumed that: (1) all of the remote players are playing at the same live casino Baccarat table (with the same shared dealer); (2) the respective Baccarat game rules in each different jurisdiction (e.g., including the remote players' jurisdictions and Casino's jurisdiction) are compatible with (e.g., do not conflict with) each other; (3) there are differences between the Maximum allowable wagers permitted in the different jurisdictions; and (4) there are differences between the Minimum wagers at each remote player's electronic gaming machine (EGM) (e.g., Higher minimum limits for VIP's, and lower (or standard) minimum limits for other patrons/players).
Applying one embodiment of the dynamic generation of modified game/wager parameters technique, in order for the Gaming Network to dynamically determine the appropriate set of modified game/wager parameters to be applied for each remote location/jurisdiction, the Gaming Network may retrieve, from a jurisdictional rules database (e.g., Jurisdictional/Casino Game/Wager Parameters, Monitoring & Enforcement System 150,
The Gaming Network may analyze the retrieved game/wager/player related information and dynamically generate, for each identified remote player, a respective, customized or personalized “local rule set”. In one embodiment, the personalized local rule set generated for a given remote player may be linked to a Player ID uniquely associated with that particular remote player. This process may be repeated for each participating remote player. Thereafter, every game interaction occurring in the wager-based game (e.g., live Baccarat table game), whether by a remote player or by the dealer/house, is verified against the local rules' compatibility. In this way, the dynamic generation of modified game/wager parameters technique enables players from different geographic regions to concurrently participate in wager-based game play (e.g., in the same gaming session and/or at the same gaming table) in a manner which is compliant with each remote player's respective jurisdictional rules and casino rules.
In Example Scenario D, it is assumed that a first remote player (at Casino A/Location A) and a second remote player (at Casino B/Location B) each wish join in on wager-based game play at an identified live Blackjack game table hosted at a broadcasting studio at Location C. In one embodiment, the first and second remote players may each use a respective EGT (e.g., remote player at Casino A uses EGT-A, and remote player at Casino B uses EGT-B, respectively) to remotely participate in gameplay at the live Blackjack game table at Location C.
While the Blackjack game rules (at Casino A, Casino B, and Location C) maybe substantially the same, in this particular example, it is assumed that there are differences in wagers allowable at each location. For example, Casino A (at Location A) may have set a minimum wager at its EGT to be $25, while Casino B (at Location B) may have set a minimum wager at its EGT to be $5. Additionally, it is assumed that the game/wager parameters of Location A's jurisdiction caps the maximum wager for all games from 7 am-7 pm to be $1000, and that the game/wager parameters of Location B's jurisdiction limits the maximum wager for all games from 7 am-7 pm to be $200.
In this particular example, the Gaming Network may automatically implement dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters by analyzing the game/wager rules from each jurisdiction, and may automatically identify, determine, and/or generate a common set of game/wager parameters that are simultaneously compliant with:
In at least one embodiment, the identified common set of game/wager parameters may be disclosed to all participating remote players at the same table prior to start of the game session, and every time a new player joins in.
It will be appreciated, in at least some embodiments, that the effect of Location (e.g., both macro and micro) and Time are significant, since these parameters may be used to determine how many sets of game/wager parameters need to be harmonized. For example, in one embodiment, to determine the common set of game/wager parameters, the Gaming Network (or one or more system(s)/component(s) thereof, such as a game server, for example) may access one or more jurisdictional rules database(s) in order to retrieve the different sets of jurisdictional game/wager parameters governing Maximum and Minimum wagers (as well as the Time window for the wagers) for each respective Location (e.g., Location A, Location B, Location C). The Gaming Network may then generate a harmonized set of common game/wager parameters (if possible) that would be simultaneously compliant in all identified Locations (e.g., Location A, Location B, Location C, both macro and micro where appropriate) at the time the game is commenced.
For example, in this particular Example D, the harmonized set of common game/wager parameters for the identified remote, live, Blackjack table game may specify:
In some embodiments, this process of dynamic harmonization of game/wager parameters (or portions thereof) may be repeated for each new game session where there are two or more remote players from different locations with different respective game/wager rule sets.
Online Gaming Environments
In at least some embodiments, such as those involving or relating to Online Gaming, a player may desire to participate in online wager-based gaming activities, for example, by logging into a gaming website which is hosted at one or more remote gaming servers. In some embodiments, one or more of the remote gaming servers may be physically located in different geographic locations and/or in different jurisdictions. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the wager-based gaming activities may be executed on a virtual server (e.g., using an RNG) which is instantiated in “the cloud.” In such embodiments, it may not be possible or practical to identify a physical location where the online gaming activities are being conducted or hosted (e.g., at the virtual server). Consequently, in such embodiments, it may also not be possible or practical to identify the jurisdiction and/or the set of gaming rules/regulations associated with the physical location where the online gaming activities are being conducted or hosted.
Accordingly, in at least some embodiments (e.g., such as those involving online wager-based gaming), the Gaming Network may automatically and/or dynamically determine whether there is a set of online gaming rules/regulations which governs the online wager-based gaming activities. For example, in some embodiments, the governing online gaming rule/regulation set(s) may be determined based on the one or more attributes of the online gaming hosting entity.
As shown at 1304, the Gaming Network may access a first set of game/wager parameters governing play of online wager-based games at Player A's geographic location, which, for example, may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
As shown at 1306, the Gaming Network may access a second set of game/wager parameters governing play of the identified online wager-based game, which, for example, may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
For example, if an online RNG-based game is being hosted on an Amazon virtual server, since Amazon is a US-based company, the Dynamic Game Rule/Wager Configuration and Alternative Offering System (or other component of the Gaming Network) may check the US Federal Laws/Rules for online gaming rules/regulations which may govern gaming activities relating to the online RNG-based game. For example, in at least some embodiments, there may be one or more set(s) of Federal rule(s)/regulation(s) that are to be applied to all or selected online gaming practices (e.g., which may apply to all online gaming activity being hosted by US-based entities).
In some embodiments, the accessed game/wager parameter information may be stored (and retrieved from) one or more local and/or remote databases such as, for example, Jurisdictional/Casino Game/Wager Parameters, Monitoring & Enforcement System 150
As shown at 1308, the Gaming Network may automatically analyze the accessed game/wager parameter information in order to determine whether are any conflicting game/wager parameters which would prohibit or prevent Player A from to remotely participating in the identified online wager-based game.
If it is determined that there are not any conflicting game/wager parameters which would prohibit or prevent Player A from to remotely participating in the identified online wager-based game, the Gaming Network may permit or enable (1310) Player A to remotely participate in the identified online wager-based game.
Alternatively, if it is determined that there are conflicting game/wager parameters which would prohibit or prevent Player A from to remotely participating in the identified online wager-based game, the Gaming Network may respond by initiating (1312) one or more Dynamic Game/Wager Rule Configuration Procedure(s) and/or Alternative Offering Procedure(s) to determine: (i) whether a modified set of game/wager rules can be identified and implemented for permitting Player A to participate in the identified online wager-based game; and/or (ii) whether any suitable Alternative Offerings can be identified and presented to Player A. Examples of different Dynamic Game/Wager Rule Configuration Procedures are illustrated and described previously with respect to
As illustrated in the example embodiment of
Alternatively, if the Gaming Network is able to identify (1316) a modified set of game/wager rules for permitting Player A to participate in the identified online wager-based game, then the Gaming Network may respond by taking action to allow/enable (1322) Player A to participate in the identified online wager-based game using a modified set of game/wager rules.
Alternatively, if the Gaming Network is not able to identify (1318) a modified set of game/wager rules for permitting Player A to participate in the identified online wager-based game, but is able to identify one or more Alternative Offering(s) to be presented to Player A, then the Gaming Network may respond by taking action to:
In other embodiments, one or more Alternative Offerings may be presented to players/patrons in various other circumstances in which the Gaming Network determines that a given player/patron is unable to participate in an identified online wager-based game. Examples of such other circumstances are described in greater detail herein.
As discussed previously, online gaming has risks for the game provider, since, for example, many online casinos risk violating the law by accepting wagers from remote players who are minors, or who are located in countries or states where one or more forms of online gambling are illegal. Online casinos also face difficulty in verifying the age and location of the remote player, both of which may be essential to verify that the player has a legitimate right to play online wager-based games. Currently, the majority of real-world (e.g., physical) casinos issue Player Tracking Cards (“PTC”) to customers who produce a valid, government-issued photo ID verifying that the customer is legally of age to gamble in the gaming jurisdiction of the issuing real-world casino. However, most online gambling sites do not have the ability to accept and verify Player Tracking Cards, especially those issued by an unrelated entity. Accordingly, various aspects described herein relate to new and improved techniques and functionality for enabling players to safely participate in online or network-based wager-based gaming sessions. Additionally, other aspects described herein relate to new and improved techniques and functionality for enabling real-world casino venues to securely and legally provide opportunities for their players/patrons to participate in online or network-based wager-based gaming sessions.
According to different embodiments, at least some Gaming Network(s) may be configured, designed, and/or operable to provide a number of different advantages and/or benefits and/or may be operable to initiate, and/or enable various different types of operations, functionalities, and/or features, such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
According to different embodiments, the Gaming Network 100 may include a plurality of different types of components, devices, modules, processes, systems, etc., which, for example, may be implemented and/or instantiated via the use of hardware and/or combinations of hardware and software. For example, as illustrated in the example embodiment of
In at least one embodiment, the Gaming Network may be operable to utilize and/or generate various different types of data and/or other types of information when performing specific tasks and/or operations. This may include, for example, input data/information and/or output data/information. For example, in at least one embodiment, the Gaming Network may be operable to access, process, and/or otherwise utilize information from one or more different types of sources, such as, for example, one or more local and/or remote memories, devices and/or systems. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the Gaming Network may be operable to generate one or more different types of output data/information, which, for example, may be stored in memory of one or more local and/or remote devices and/or systems. Examples of different types of input data/information and/or output data/information which may be accessed and/or utilized by the Gaming Network may include, but are not limited to, one or more of those described and/or referenced herein. According to specific embodiments, multiple instances or threads of the Gaming Network processes and/or procedures may be concurrently implemented and/or initiated via the use of one or more processors and/or other combinations of hardware and/or hardware and software.
According to different embodiments, various different types of encryption/decryption techniques may be used to facilitate secure communications between devices, systems, and/or components of the Gaming Network(s). Examples of the various types of security techniques which may be used may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof): random number generators, SHA-1 (Secured Hashing Algorithm), MD2, MD5, DES (Digital Encryption Standard), 3DES (Triple DES), RC4 (Rivest Cipher), ARC4 (related to RC4), TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol, uses RC4), AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), RSA, DSA, DH, NTRU, and ECC (elliptic curve cryptography), PKA (Private Key Authentication), Device-Unique Secret Key and other cryptographic key data, SSL, etc. Other security features contemplated may include use of well known hardware-based and/or software-based security components, and/or any other known or yet to be devised security and/or hardware and encryption/decryption processes implemented in hardware and/or software.
It will be appreciated that the Gaming Network of
Generally, the dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and/or alternative offering techniques described herein may be implemented in hardware and/or hardware+software. Hardware and/or software+hardware hybrid embodiments of the dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and/or alternative offering techniques described herein may be implemented on a general-purpose programmable machine selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in memory. Such programmable machine may include, for example, mobile or handheld computing systems, PDA, smart phones, notebook computers, tablets, netbooks, desktop computing systems, server systems, cloud computing systems, network devices, etc.
According to different embodiments, the Gaming Network 200 may include a plurality of different types of components, devices, modules, processes, systems, etc., which, for example, may be implemented and/or instantiated via the use of hardware and/or combinations of hardware and software. For example, as illustrated in the example embodiment of
According to specific embodiments, the at least some of the computing clouds may include several different types of local area networks such as, for example, a backbone LAN which may be utilized for providing localized communication between various local network elements within a given computing cloud, and an internet LAN which, for example, may be utilized for providing WAN or Internet access to various local network elements within the computing cloud. In at least one embodiment, one or more of the computing clouds may be operable to host a variety of different types of applications and/or other software for performing various types of services such as, for example, one or more of those described herein. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, one or more of the computing clouds may be operable to provide various types of database services such as, for example, data storage, database queries, data access, etc. As illustrated in the example embodiment of
As illustrated in the example embodiment of
According to different embodiments, one or more Gaming Networks (e.g., 100, 200) may include other systems, components, and/or devices for facilitating, initiating, and/or performing various operation(s), action(s), feature(s), and/or other functionality, such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
According to different embodiments, a searching server may implement a search on one or more gaming devices to obtain gaming data. Searching server may implement a messaging function, which may transmit a message to a third party (e.g., a player) relating to a search, a search status update, a game status update, a wager status update, a confirmation of a wager, a confirmation of a money transfer, and/or any other data relating to the player's account. The message can take the form of a text display on the gaming device, a pop up window, a text message, an email, a voice message, a video message and the like. Searching server may implement a wagering function, which may be an automatic wagering mechanism. These functions of searching server may be integrated into one or more servers.
Searching server may include one or more searching structures, one or more searching algorithms, and/or any other searching mechanisms. In general, the search structures may cover which table games paid out the most money during a time period, which table games kept the most money from players during a time period, which table games are most popular (top games), which table games are least popular, which table games have the most amount of money wager during a period, which table games have the highest wager volume, which table games are more volatile (volatility, or deviation from the statistical norms, of wager volume, wager amount, pay out, etc.) during a time period, and the like. Search may also be associated with location queries, time queries, and/or people queries (e.g., where are the table games that most of my friends wager on, where are my favorite dealers, what do players wager on the most today, when are most wagers placed, etc.).
The searching structures may be predetermined searching structures. For example, the method may start searching a first device, then a second device, then a third device, up to an Nth device based on one or more searching parameters (e.g., triggering event). In one example, the search may end once one or more triggering events are determined. In another example, the search may end once data has been received from a predetermined number (e.g., one, two, ten, one hundred, all) of the devices. In another example, the search may be based on a predetermined number of devices to be searched in combination with a predetermined number of search results to be obtained. In this example, the search structure may be a minimum of ten devices to be searched, along with a minimum of five gaming options to be determined.
In another example, the searching structures may be based on one or more specific games (e.g., baccarat tables, roulette tables, blackjack tables, poker tables, craps tables, Sic Bo tables, etc.). Searching structure may search one or more of these games.
In another example, the searching structure may be based on a player's preferences, past transactional history, player input, a particular table, a particular game, a particular dealer, a particular casino, a particular location within a casino, game outcomes over a time period, payout over a time period, and/or any other criteria.
In another example, the searching structure may be based on rules and regulations governing wager-based gaming activities in one or more jurisdictions.
Searching algorithms may be dynamic searching programs, which may be modified based on one or more past results. For example, a search algorithm may be based on searching blackjack tables. The search algorithm may initially search blackjack tables 1-10 to determine whether any triggering events have occurred. Based on one or more previous searches, the search algorithm may determine: (1) that blackjack tables 1-4 are only opened from 7 pm to 3 am; (2) that blackjack tables 5-7 are opened twenty-four hours a day; and (3) that blackjack tables 8-10 are only opened from 7 am to 5 pm. The search algorithm may then modify the search parameters utilized based on this data. For example, if the search algorithm is initiated at 6 pm to determine blackjack triggering events, then the search algorithm may only search blackjack tables 5-7 because these blackjack tables are the only blackjack tables operating at that specific time.
In another example, the search algorithm may determine that a specific triggering event occurs with a ninety percent success rate on a first table, a ten percent success rate on a second table, a fifty percent success rate on a third table, and a seventy percent success rate on a fourth table. The search algorithm may generate a search priority based on the probability of success, which may lead to the first table being searched first, the fourth table being searched second, the third table being searched third, and the second table being searched fourth. Search algorithm may utilize any dynamic feedback procedure to enhance current and/or future searching results
Electronic gaming table 360 may include a processor 300, a memory 305, a display 310, a printer 315, an electronic shoe 320, an electronic shuffler 322, a smart card reader 325, a jackpot controller 330, a chips reader 335, and a camera 340.
Processor 300 may be communicatively coupled to any other device in electronic gaming table 360. Processor 300 via an interface may communicate, wired or wireless, with any of the elements of electronic gaming device 100 and/or electronic gaming system 200.
Memory 305 may include data relating to gaming events, video streams transmitted from electronic gaming table 360, winning and losing percentages for gaming options relating to electronic gaming table 360, and game management data (e.g., dealer schedule, chip refills, etc.).
Display 310 may show previous game results, a betting structure, outstanding wagers, transaction volume, present value of betting options, a table minimum wager, a table maximum wager, wager and/or game play instructions input by one or more remote players (e.g., via their respective EGTs), instructions to the live dealer/attendant relating to game play activities to be performed by the dealer/attendant, video data, and/or any other type of data or content.
Printer 315 may generate vouchers, promotional items, food tickets, event tickets, and/or lodging tickets. Vouchers may be physical (e.g., paper) or digital.
Electronic shuffler 322 may be configured or designed to automatically shuffle multiple decks of cards, and to track the relative order of each of the cards of the shuffled decks of cards. The electronic shuffler can include an off the shelf unit. A dealer can use the electronic shuffler to shuffle the decks of cards before dealing the required hands, and place the shuffled decks of cards into the electronic shoe 320. In this way, the electronic gaming table may determine the relative order of all cards in the card shoe at the start of one or more game session(s), and/or at all other times of game play.
Electronic shoe 320 may obtain data and/or images of gaming objects utilized with gaming table 360. This data and/or images may be transmitted to electronic gaming terminal and displayed as images from table games. For example, on a blackjack table a ten of spades may be dealt to a player. This information is obtained via electronic shoe 320 and utilized to generate an image and/or illustration of a ten of spades card on an electronic gaming terminal. In another example, electronic shoe 320 may receive data relating to the numbers on dice, transmit this data to electronic gaming terminal, which may be utilized to generate an image/illustration of the dice on electronic gaming terminal.
In at least one embodiment, the electronic shoe can include an electronic reading system, such as an optical reader for recognizing the face value of each card. The electronic shoe can be designed to communicate directly with the card dealing/shuffling system to read or otherwise obtain the value of each card being dealt by the dealer as the card leaves the card dealing/shuffling system. For example, an optical reader or similar device can be attached to the card dealing/shuffling system, and the electronic shoe can obtain the scanned value of cards in the card dealing/shuffling system. In some implementations, the electronic shoe can interface with the table to read the value of each card being dealt by the dealer. For example, the table can include one or more scanning interfaces to scan each card before or after the card is dealt by the dealer. The electronic shoe can communicate with the one or more scanning interfaces to obtain the value of each card before or after the card is dealt by the dealer.
Card reader 325 may provide identification, authentication, and application processing functions. Card reader 325 may interface with smart cards, magnetic striped card, bar code reader, RFID card, and the like.
Jackpot controller 330 may track and compile data associated with a jackpot. Jackpot controller 330 may award the jackpot on a specific occurrence (e.g., blackjack event, dealing a royal flush, etc.) and/or randomly award a jackpot.
Chips reader 335 may compile and track data associated with the amount of chips one or more players possesses, the amount of chips won/lost at gaming table 360, the amount of chips in the dealer's rack at gaming table 360, an amount of chips wager by one or more players, amount of chips in the betting pool, and/or any combination thereof.
Camera 340 may obtain data from gaming table 360. Camera 340 may be one or more cameras located to view the gaming objects (e.g., cards, dice, dominos, ball, wheel, etc.), the dealer, the shoe, the players' hands, the players, and/or any combination thereof. Camera 340 may transmit this data to gaming table, which may be utilized to generate an image/illustration of the gaming objects.
Speakers 342 may be used to provide audio information to the game table dealer/attendant. Examples of different types of audio information may include, for example, audio instructions and/or other audio/verbal communications from one or more remote players, computer-generated audio instructions/content, sound effects, and/or other types of audio content.
Microphone 343 may be used to capture, record, and/or stream audio information from the electronic gaming table region, which, for example, may include verbal communications from the table game dealer/attendant.
According to specific embodiments, a variety of different game states may be used to characterize the state of current and/or past events which are occurring (or have occurred) at a given live gaming table. For example, in one embodiment, at any given time in a game, a valid current game state may be used to characterize the state of game play (and/or other related events, such as, for example, mode of operation of the gaming table, etc.) at that particular time. In at least one embodiment, multiple different states may be used to characterize different states or events which occur at the gaming table at any given time. In one embodiment, when faced with ambiguity of game state, a single state embodiment forces a decision such that one valid current game state is chosen. In a multiple state embodiment, multiple possible game states may exist simultaneously at any given time in a game, and at the end of the game or at any point in the middle of the game, the gaming table may analyze the different game states and select one of them based on certain criteria. Thus, for example, when faced with ambiguity of game state, the multiple state embodiment(s) allow all potential game states to exist and move forward, thus deferring the decision of choosing one game state to a later point in the game. The multiple game state embodiment(s) may also be more effective in handling ambiguous data or game state scenarios.
According to specific embodiments, a variety of different entities may be used (e.g., either singly or in combination) to track the progress of game states which occur at a given gaming table. Examples of such entities may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combination thereof): master controller system, display system, gaming system, local game tracking component(s), remote game tracking component(s), etc. Examples of various game tracking components may include, but are not limited to: automated sensors, manually operated sensors, video cameras, intelligent playing card shoes, RFID readers/writers, RFID tagged chips, objects displaying machine readable code/patterns, etc.
According to a specific embodiment, local game tracking components at the gaming table may be operable to automatically monitor game play activities at the gaming table, and/or to automatically identify key events which may trigger a transition of game state from one state to another as a game progresses. For example, in the case of Blackjack, a key event may include one or more events which indicate a change in the state of a game such as, for example: a new card being added to a card hand, the split of a card hand, a card hand being moved, a new card provided from a shoe, removal or disappearance of a card by occlusion, etc.
Depending upon the type of game being played at the gaming table, examples of other possible key events may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following (or combination thereof):
Processor 402 may generate gaming options based on predetermined betting structures and/or outcome categories. As previously discussed in the craps example above, predetermined betting structures may include outcome categories. In that example, there were three outcome categories (e.g., outcome equaling a seven, outcome not equaling a hard number, and outcome not equaling a craps). Predetermined betting structures may utilize one outcome category (e.g., win, lose, hard number, craps, etc.) to generate via processor 402 gaming options. Predetermined betting structures may utilize more than one outcome category to generate via processor 402 gaming options. Predetermined betting structures may combine any outcome category with any other outcome category to gaming options.
Processor 402 may offer a gaming option which is structured so that the gaming option relates to more than one gaming table. The gaming option structure may be that for the next five baccarat games (e.g., games numbered 1010 to 1014) the dealer will win three of these five games and three of the next five roulette games (e.g., games numbered 900 to 904) red will be the winning spot.
Processor 402 may generate contingent gaming options 108 and/or predetermined gaming options 106. Contingent gaming options 108 may be structures such that when a triggering event occurs over one or more than one gaming event, racing event, and/or sporting event, the wager is activated.
Network interface 422 may allow electronic gaming terminal 400 to communicate with video/multimedia server 215, accounting/transaction server 220, gaming server 225, authentication server 230, player tracking server 235, voucher server 240, and gaming table 260.
Input devices 428 may be mechanical buttons, electronic buttons, a touchscreen, a microphone, cameras, an optical scanner, or any combination thereof. Input devices 428 may be utilized to make a wager, to make an offer to buy or sell a voucher, to determine a voucher's worth, to cash in a voucher, to modify (e.g., change sound level, configuration, font, language, etc.) electronic gaming terminal 400, to select a movie or music, to select live video streams (e.g., table 1, table 2, table 3), to request services (e.g., drinks, manager, etc.), or any combination thereof.
Display 426 may show video streams from one or more gaming tables 260, gaming objects from one or more gaming tables 260, computer generated graphics, predetermined gaming options 106, and/or contingent gaming options 108.
Memory 404 may include various memory modules 440. Memory 404 via various memory modules 440 may include a future betting module 406, a predetermined game options module 408, a contingent game options module 410, a confirmation module 412, a validation module 414, a voucher module 416, a reporting module 418, a maintenance module 420, a player tracking preferences module 424, a searching module 430, and an account module 432.
Future betting module 406 may store data relating to the predetermined betting structure. Processor 402 may utilize data in future betting module 406 to generate predetermined gaming options 106 and contingent gaming options 108. Any other processor (e.g., gaming server 225, any virtualized gaming server, etc.) may implement these functions of processor 402.
Predetermined game options module 408 may store data relating to predetermined gaming options 106, which may be offered to a player.
Contingent game options module 410 may store data relating to continent gaming options 108, which may be offered to a player.
Confirmation module 412 may utilize data received from a voucher, the transaction history of the voucher (e.g., the voucher changed hands in a secondary market), and/or the identity of the player to confirm the value of the voucher. In another example, confirmation module 412 may utilize game event data, along with voucher data to confirm the value of the voucher.
Validation module 414 may utilize data received from a voucher to confirm the validity of the voucher.
Voucher module 416 may store data relating to generated vouchers, redeemed vouchers, bought vouchers, and/or sold vouchers.
Reporting module 418 may generate reports related to a performance of electronic gaming terminal 400, electronic gaming system 200, table game 260, video streams, gaming objects, credit device 112, and/or identification device 114.
In one implementation, reporting module 418 may reside on a central server and can aggregate and generate real time statistics on betting activities at one or more table games at one or more participating casino's. The aggregate betting statistics may include trends (e.g., aggregate daily wager volume and wager amount by game types, by casinos, and the like), top games with the most payouts, top tables with the most payouts, top search structures used by players, most popular dealers by wager volume, most searched for game, tables with least payouts, weekly trends, monthly trends, and other statistics related to game plays, wagers, people, location, and searches.
The information and statistics generated by the server-based reporting module 418 can be displayed publicly or privately. For example, popular trending and statistical information on wager volume and wager amount for the top ten table games can be publicly displayed in a casino display system so that players can study and decide what game to play, where, when, etc. Such a public display of general statistics can also be posted on the Internet, sent out as a text, an email, or multimedia message to the player's smart phones, tablets, desktop computer, etc. In another example, the trending and statistical information can also be distributed privately to privileged players such as casino club members.
Maintenance module 420 may track any maintenance that is implemented on electronic gaming terminal 400 and/or electronic gaming system 200. Maintenance module 420 may schedule preventative maintenance and/or request a service call based on a device error.
Player tracking preferences module 424 may compile and track data associated with a players preferences.
Searching module 430 may include one or more searching structures, one or more searching algorithms, and/or any other searching mechanisms. The searching structures may be predetermined searching structures. For example, the method may start searching a first device, then a second device, then a third device, up to an Nth device based on one or more searching parameters (e.g., triggering event). In one example, the search may end once one or more triggering events are determined. In another example, the search may end once data has been received from a predetermined number (e.g., one, two, ten, one hundred, all) of the devices. In another example, the search may be based on a predetermined number of devices to be searched in combination with a predetermined number of search results to be obtained. In this example, the search structure may be a minimum of ten devices to be searched, along with a minimum of five gaming options to be determined.
In another example, the searching structures may be based on one or more specific games (e.g., baccarat tables, roulette tables, blackjack tables, poker tables, craps tables, Sic Bo tables, etc.). Searching structure may search one or more of these games.
In another example, the searching structure may be based on a player's preferences, past transactional history, player input, a particular table, a particular game, a particular dealer, a particular casino, a particular location within a casino, game outcomes over a time period, payout over a time period, and/or any other criteria. Searching algorithms may be dynamic searching programs, which may be modified based on one or more past results, as described previously.
In another example, the search algorithm may generate a search priority based on the probability of success various events and/or conditions, as described previously. In some embodiments, the search algorithm may utilize any dynamic feedback procedure to enhance current and/or future searching results.
Account module 432 may include data relating to an account balance, a wager limit, a number of wagers placed, credit limits, any other player information, and/or any other account information.
Data from account module 432 may be utilized to determine whether a wager may be accepted. For example, when a search has determined a triggering event, the device and/or system may determine whether to allow this wager based on one or more of a wager amount, a number of wagers, a wager limit, an account balance, and/or any other criteria.
For example, the system and/or device determines via searching function that a triggering event has occurred. Based on this triggering event, the player would like to make a $400 wager, however, the player's account balance is only $50. In this case, the system and/or device may not accept the wager, modify the wager to the account balance (e.g., $50), send a notice to the player, modify the wager to some percentage (e.g., 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, etc.) of the account balance (e.g., $5, $12.50, $25, $37.5, etc.), send a notice to the gaming entity, make a flat wager (e.g., $10), and/or any combination thereof.
In another example, the system and/or device determines via searching function that a triggering event has occurred. Based on this triggering event, the player would like to make a $400 wager and the player's account balance is $150. However, the system and/or device may not accept the wager because one betting parameter may be that no one wager may be more than a certain percentage (e.g., fifty percent) of a player's account balance. In this case, the system and/or device may not accept the wager, modify the wager to the predetermined limit (e.g., $75), send a notice to the player, modify the wager to some other percentage (e.g., 5%, 10%, 25%, 40%, etc.) of the account balance, send a notice to the gaming entity, make a flat wager (e.g., $10), and/or any combination thereof.
In another example, the gaming jurisdiction, the casino, the system and/or device may not allow an individual to place a wager over a specific value (e.g., $25, $400, $1,000, $10,000, $400,000, $1,000,000, etc.).
In another example, the system and/or device may not allow an individual to lose more than a specific amount of money in a predetermined timeframe. An individual may only be allowed to lose $200 (or any other number) over a two hour period (or any other time period).
In another example, based on this triggering event, the player would like to make a $400 wager and the player has a $200 balance. However, the player has made a predetermined number of wagers within a predetermined time frame. For example, the system and/or device may not allow an individual to make more than 5 wagers a day, 25 wagers a week, 1,000 wagers a year, etc.
Any of these betting parameters may be combined by the system and/or device.
In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the modules discussed in block diagram 400 may reside locally in gaming terminal 400. However, In at least some embodiments, the functions performed by these modules may be implemented in one or more remote servers. For instance, modules 406-420 and 424 may each be on a remote server, communicating with gaming terminal 400 via a network interface such as Ethernet in a local or a wide area network topology. In some implementations, these servers may be physical servers in a data center. In some other implementations, these servers may be virtualized. In yet some other implementations, the functions performed by these modules may be implemented as web services. For example, the predetermined game options module 408 may be implemented in software as a web service provider. Gaming terminal 400 would make service requests over the web for the available predetermined wager options to be displayed. Regardless of how the modules and their respective functions are implemented, the interoperability with the gaming terminal 400 is seamless.
In one implementation, reporting module 418 may reside on a central server and can aggregate and generate real time statistics on betting activities at one or more table games at one or more participating casino's. The aggregate betting statistics may include trends (e.g., aggregate daily wager volume and wager amount by game types, by casinos, and the like), top games with the most payouts, top tables with the most payouts, top search structures used by players, most popular dealers by wager volume, most searched for game, tables with least payouts, weekly trends, monthly trends, and other statistics related to game plays, wagers, people, location, and searches.
The information and statistics generated by the server-based reporting module 418 can be displayed publicly or privately. For example, popular trending and statistical information on wager volume and wager amount for the top ten table games can be publicly displayed in a casino display system so that players can study and decide what game to play, where, when, etc. Such a public display of general statistics can also be posted on the Internet, sent out as a text, an email, or multimedia message to the player's smart phones, tablets, desktop computer, etc. In another example, the trending and statistical information can also be distributed privately to privileged players such as casino club members.
As illustrated in the embodiment of
In at least one embodiment, the Dynamic Game/Wager Configuration and Alternative Offering component(s) 541 may be configured or designed to include functionality for facilitating, enabling, initiating, and/or performing one or more operation(s), action(s), and/or feature(s) relating to the Dynamic Game/Wager Configuration techniques and/or Alternative Offering techniques described herein.
One or more cameras (e.g., 562) may be used to monitor, stream and/or record image content and/or video content relating to persons or objects within each camera's view. For example, in at least one embodiment where the Gaming Network is implemented as an EGT, camera 562 may be used to generate a live, real-time video feed of a player (or other person) who is currently interacting with the EGT. In some embodiments, camera 562 may be used to verify a user's identity (e.g., by authenticating detected facial features), and/or may be used to monitor or tract facial expressions and/or eye movements of a user or player who is interacting with the Gaming Network.
In at least one embodiment, display system 590 may include one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
According to various embodiments, display surface(s) 595 may include one or more display screens utilizing various types of display technologies such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof): LCDs (Liquid Crystal Display), Plasma, OLEDs (Organic Light Emitting Display), TOLED (Transparent Organic Light Emitting Display), Flexible (F)OLEDs, Active matrix (AM) OLED, Passive matrix (PM) OLED, Phosphor-escent (PH) OLEDs, SEDs (surface-conduction electron-emitter display), EPD (ElectroPhoretic display), FEDs (Field Emission Displays) and/or other suitable display technology. EPD displays may be provided by E-ink of Cambridge, Mass. OLED displays of the type list above may be provided by Universal Display Corporation, Ewing, N.J.
In at least one embodiment, master gaming controller 512 may include one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In at least one embodiment, Peripheral Devices 550 may include one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
In one implementation, processor 510 and master gaming controller 512 are included in a logic device 513 enclosed in a logic device housing. The processor 510 may include any conventional processor or logic device configured to execute software allowing various configuration and reconfiguration tasks such as, for example: a) communicating with a remote source via communication interface 506, such as a server that stores authentication information or games; b) converting signals read by an interface to a format corresponding to that used by software or memory in the Gaming Network; c) accessing memory to configure or reconfigure game parameters in the memory according to indicia read from the device; d) communicating with interfaces, various peripheral devices and/or I/O devices; e) operating peripheral devices such as, for example, card readers, paper ticket readers, etc.; f) operating various I/O devices such as, for example, displays 535, input devices 530; etc. For instance, the processor 510 may send messages including game play information to the displays 535 to inform players of cards dealt, wagering information, and/or other desired information.
In at least one implementation, the Gaming Network may include card readers such as used with credit cards, or other identification code reading devices to allow or require player identification in connection with play of the card game and associated recording of game action. Such a player identification interface can be implemented in the form of a variety of magnetic card readers commercially available for reading a player-specific identification information. The player-specific information can be provided on specially constructed magnetic cards issued by a casino, or magnetically coded credit cards or debit cards frequently used with national credit organizations such as VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, or banks and other institutions.
The gaming system may include other types of participant identification mechanisms which may use a fingerprint image, eye blood vessel image reader, or other suitable biological information to confirm identity of the player. Still further it is possible to provide such participant identification information by having the dealer manually code in the information in response to the player indicating his or her code name or real name. Such additional identification could also be used to confirm credit use of a smart card, transponder, and/or player's personal player input device (UID).
The gaming system 500 also includes memory 516 which may include, for example, volatile memory (e.g., RAM 509), non-volatile memory 519 (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, etc.), unalterable memory (e.g., EPROMs 508), etc. The memory may be configured or designed to store, for example: 1) configuration software 514 such as all the parameters and settings for a game playable on the Gaming Network; 2) associations 518 between configuration indicia read from a device with one or more parameters and settings; 3) communication protocols allowing the processor 510 to communicate with peripheral devices and I/O devices 511; 5) a secondary memory storage device 515 such as a non-volatile memory device, configured to store gaming software related information (the gaming software related information and memory may be used to store various audio files and games not currently being used and invoked in a configuration or reconfiguration); 5) communication transport protocols (such as, for example, TCP/IP, USB, Firewire, IEEE1394, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11x (IEEE 802.11 standards), hiperlan/2, HomeRF, etc.) for allowing the Gaming Network to communicate with local and non-local devices using such protocols; etc. In one implementation, the master gaming controller 512 communicates using a serial communication protocol. A few examples of serial communication protocols that may be used to communicate with the master gaming controller include but are not limited to USB, RS-232 and Netplex (a proprietary protocol developed by IGT, Reno, Nev.).
A plurality of device drivers 542 may be stored in memory 516. Example of different types of device drivers may include device drivers for gaming system components, device drivers for gaming system components, etc. Typically, the device drivers 542 utilize a communication protocol of some type that enables communication with a particular physical device. The device driver abstracts the hardware implementation of a device. For example, a device drive may be written for each type of card reader that may be potentially connected to the Gaming Network. Examples of communication protocols used to implement the device drivers include Netplex, USB, Serial, Ethernet 575, Firewire, I/O debouncer, direct memory map, serial, PCI, parallel, RF, Bluetooth™, near-field communications (e.g., using near-field magnetics), 802.11 (WiFi), etc. Netplex is a proprietary IGT standard while the others are open standards. According to a specific embodiment, when one type of a particular device is exchanged for another type of the particular device, a new device driver may be loaded from the memory 516 by the processor 510 to allow communication with the device. For instance, one type of card reader in gaming system 500 may be replaced with a second type of card reader where device drivers for both card readers are stored in the memory 516.
In some embodiments, the software units stored in the memory 516 may be upgraded as needed. For instance, when the memory 516 is a hard drive, new games, game options, various new parameters, new settings for existing parameters, new settings for new parameters, device drivers, and new communication protocols may be uploaded to the memory from the master gaming controller 512 or from some other external device. As another example, when the memory 516 includes a CD/DVD drive including a CD/DVD designed or configured to store game options, parameters, and settings, the software stored in the memory may be upgraded by replacing a first CD/DVD with a second CD/DVD. In yet another example, when the memory 516 uses one or more flash memory 519 or EPROM 508 units designed or configured to store games, game options, parameters, settings, the software stored in the flash and/or EPROM memory units may be upgraded by replacing one or more memory units with new memory units which include the upgraded software. In another embodiment, one or more of the memory devices, such as the hard-drive, may be employed in a game software download process from a remote software server.
In some embodiments, the Gaming Network 500 may also include various authentication and/or validation components 544 which may be used for authenticating/validating specified gaming system components such as, for example, hardware components, software components, firmware components, information stored in the Gaming Network memory 516, etc. Examples of various authentication and/or validation components are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,620,047, entitled, “ELECTRONIC GAMING APPARATUS HAVING AUTHENTICATION DATA SETS,” incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
Sensors 560 may include, for example, optical sensors, pressure sensors, RF sensors, Infrared sensors, motion sensors, audio sensors, image sensors, thermal sensors, biometric sensors, etc. As mentioned previously, such sensors may be used for a variety of functions such as, for example: detecting the presence and/or monetary amount of gaming chips which have been placed within a player's wagering zone; detecting (e.g., in real time) the presence and/or monetary amount of gaming chips which are within the player's personal space; etc.
In one implementation, at least a portion of the sensors 560 and/or input devices 530 may be implemented in the form of touch keys selected from a wide variety of commercially available touch keys used to provide electrical control signals. Alternatively, some of the touch keys may be implemented in another form which are touch sensors such as those provided by a touchscreen display. For example, in at least one implementation, the Gaming Network player may include input functionality for enabling players to provide their game play decisions/instructions (and/or other input) to the dealer using the touch keys and/or other player control sensors/buttons. Additionally, such input functionality may also be used for allowing players to provide input to other devices in the casino gaming network (such as, for example, player tracking systems, side wagering systems, etc.)
Wireless communication components 556 may include one or more communication interfaces having different architectures and utilizing a variety of protocols such as, for example, 802.11 (WiFi), 802.15 (including Bluetooth™), 802.16 (WiMax), 802.22, Cellular standards such as CDMA, CDMA2000, WCDMA, Radio Frequency (e.g., RFID), Infrared, Near Field Magnetic communication protocols, etc. The communication links may transmit electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals which carry digital data streams or analog signals representing various types of information.
An example of a near-field communication protocol is the ECMA-340 “Near Field Communication—Interface and Protocol (NFCIP-1)”, published by ECMA International (www.ecma-international.org), herein incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. It will be appreciated that other types of Near Field Communication protocols may be used including, for example, near field magnetic communication protocols, near field RF communication protocols, and/or other wireless protocols which provide the ability to control with relative precision (e.g., on the order of centimeters, inches, feet, meters, etc.) the allowable radius of communication between at least 5 devices using such wireless communication protocols.
Power distribution components 558 may include, for example, components or devices which are operable for providing wireless power to other devices. For example, in one implementation, the power distribution components 558 may include a magnetic induction system which is adapted to provide wireless power to one or more portable UIDs at the Gaming Network. In one implementation, a UID docking region may include a power distribution component which is able to recharge a UID placed within the UID docking region without requiring metal-to-metal contact.
In at least one embodiment, motion/gesture detection component(s) 551 may be configured or designed to detect player (e.g., player, dealer, and/or other persons) movements and/or gestures and/or other input data from the player. In some embodiments, each gaming system may have its own respective motion/gesture detection component(s). In other embodiments, motion/gesture detection component(s) 551 may be implemented as a separate sub-system of the Gaming Network which is not associated with any one specific gaming system or device.
As illustrated in the example of
In at least one embodiment, the mobile gaming device may include Mobile Device App Component(s) which have been configured or designed to provide functionality for enabling or implementing at least a portion of the various dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and/or alternative offering techniques at the mobile gaming device.
In at least one embodiment, the Dynamic Game/Wager Configuration and Alternative Offering component(s) 661 may be configured or designed to include functionality for facilitating, enabling, initiating, and/or performing one or more operation(s), action(s), and/or feature(s) relating to the dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and/or alternative offering techniques described herein.
According to specific embodiments, various aspects, features, and/or functionalities of the mobile gaming device may be performed, implemented and/or initiated by one or more of the following types of systems, components, systems, devices, procedures, processes, etc. (or combinations thereof):
In according to one embodiment, network device 760 may include a master central processing unit (CPU) 762, interfaces 768, and a bus 767 (e.g., a PCI bus). When acting under the control of appropriate software or firmware, the CPU 762 may be responsible for implementing specific functions associated with the functions of a desired network device. For example, when configured as a server, the CPU 762 may be responsible for analyzing packets; encapsulating packets; forwarding packets to appropriate network devices; instantiating various types of virtual machines, virtual interfaces, virtual storage volumes, virtual appliances; etc. The CPU 762 preferably accomplishes at least a portion of these functions under the control of software including an operating system (e.g. Linux), and any appropriate system software (such as, for example, AppLogic™ software).
CPU 762 may include one or more processors 763 such as, for example, one or more processors from the AMD, Motorola, Intel and/or MIPS families of microprocessors. In an alternative embodiment, processor 763 may be specially designed hardware for controlling the operations of server system 780. In a specific embodiment, a memory 761 (such as non-volatile RAM and/or ROM) also forms part of CPU 762. However, there may be many different ways in which memory could be coupled to the system. Memory block 761 may be used for a variety of purposes such as, for example, caching and/or storing data, programming instructions, etc.
The interfaces 768 may be typically provided as interface cards (sometimes referred to as “line cards”). Alternatively, one or more of the interfaces 768 may be provided as on-board interface controllers built into the system motherboard. Generally, they control the sending and receiving of data packets over the network and sometimes support other peripherals used with the server system 780. Among the interfaces that may be provided may be FC interfaces, Ethernet interfaces, frame relay interfaces, cable interfaces, DSL interfaces, token ring interfaces, Infiniband interfaces, and the like. In addition, various very high-speed interfaces may be provided, such as fast Ethernet interfaces, Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, ATM interfaces, HSSI interfaces, POS interfaces, FDDI interfaces, ASI interfaces, DHEI interfaces and the like. Other interfaces may include one or more wireless interfaces such as, for example, 802.11 (WiFi) interfaces, 802.15 interfaces (including Bluetooth™), 802.16 (WiMax) interfaces, 802.22 interfaces, Cellular standards such as CDMA interfaces, CDMA2000 interfaces, WCDMA interfaces, TDMA interfaces, Cellular 3G interfaces, etc.
Generally, one or more interfaces may include ports appropriate for communication with the appropriate media. In some cases, they may also include an independent processor and, in some instances, volatile RAM. The independent processors may control such communications intensive tasks as packet switching, media control and management. By providing separate processors for the communications intensive tasks, these interfaces allow the master microprocessor 762 to efficiently perform routing computations, network diagnostics, security functions, etc.
In at least one embodiment, some interfaces may be configured or designed to allow the server system 780 to communicate with other network devices associated with various local area network (LANs) and/or wide area networks (WANs). Other interfaces may be configured or designed to allow network device 760 to communicate with one or more direct attached storage device(s) 770.
Although the system shown in
Regardless of network device's configuration, it may employ one or more memories or memory modules (such as, for example, memory block 765, which, for example, may include random access memory (RAM)) configured to store data, program instructions for the general-purpose network operations and/or other information relating to the functionality of the various dynamic game/wager configuration techniques and/or alternative offering techniques described herein. The program instructions may control the operation of an operating system and/or one or more applications, for example. The memory or memories may also be configured to store data structures, and/or other specific non-program information described herein.
Because such information and program instructions may be employed to implement the systems/methods described herein, one or more embodiments relates to machine readable media that include program instructions, state information, etc. for performing various operations described herein. Examples of machine-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tape; optical media such as CD-ROM disks; magneto-optical media such as floptical disks; and hardware devices that may be specially configured to store and perform program instructions, such as read-only memory devices (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). Some embodiments may also be embodied in transmission media such as, for example, a carrier wave travelling over an appropriate medium such as airwaves, optical lines, electric lines, etc. Examples of program instructions include both machine code, such as produced by a compiler, and files containing higher level code that may be executed by the computer using an interpreter.
In at least one embodiment, the Casino Server System may include a plurality of components operable to perform and/or implement various types of functions, operations, actions, and/or other features such as, for example, one or more of the following (or combinations thereof):
The gaming system 900 may receive inputs from different groups/entities and output various services and or information to these groups/entities. For example, game players 925 primarily input cash or indicia of credit into the system, make game selections that trigger software downloads, and receive entertainment in exchange for their inputs. Game software content providers provide game software for the system and may receive compensation for the content they provide based on licensing agreements with the gaming machine operators. Gaming machine operators select game software for distribution, distribute the game software on the gaming devices in the system 900, receive revenue for the use of their software and compensate the gaming machine operators. The gaming regulators 930 may provide rules and regulations that must be applied to the Gaming Network and may receive reports and other information confirming that rules are being obeyed.
In the following paragraphs, details of each component and some of the interactions between the components are described with respect to
In another embodiment, a game usage-tracking host 915 may track the usage of game software on a plurality of devices in communication with the host. The game usage-tracking host 915 may be in communication with a plurality of game play hosts and gaming machines. From the game play hosts and gaming machines, the game usage tracking host 915 may receive updates of an amount that each game available for play on the devices has been played and on amount that has been wagered per game. This information may be stored in a database and used for billing according to methods described in a utility based licensing agreement.
The game software host 902 may provide game software downloads, such as downloads of game software or game firmware, to various devious in the game system 900. For example, when the software to generate the game is not available on the game play interface 911, the game software host 902 may download software to generate a selected game of chance played on the game play interface. Further, the game software host 902 may download new game content to a plurality of gaming machines via a request from a gaming machine operator.
In one embodiment, the game software host 902 may also be a game software configuration-tracking host 913. The function of the game software configuration-tracking host is to keep records of software configurations and/or hardware configurations for a plurality of devices in communication with the host (e.g., denominations, number of paylines, paytables, max/min wagers). Details of a game software host and a game software configuration host that may be used with example embodiments are described in co-pending U.S. Pat. No. 6,645,077, by Rowe, titled, “Gaming Terminal Data Repository and Information System,” filed Dec. 91, 9000, which is incorporated herein in its entirety and for all purposes.
A game play host device 903 may be a host server connected to a plurality of remote clients that generates games of chance that are displayed on a plurality of remote game play interfaces 911. For example, the game play host device 903 may be a server that provides central determination for a bingo game play played on a plurality of connected game play interfaces 911. As another example, the game play host device 903 may generate games of chance, such as slot games or video card games, for display on a remote client. A game player using the remote client may be able to select from a number of games that are provided on the client by the host device 903. The game play host device 903 may receive game software management services, such as receiving downloads of new game software, from the game software host 902 and may receive game software licensing services, such as the granting or renewing of software licenses for software executed on the device 903, from the game license host 901.
In particular embodiments, the game play interfaces or other gaming devices in the Gaming Network 900 may be portable devices, such as electronic tokens, cell phones, smart cards, tablet PC's and PDA's. The portable devices may support wireless communications and thus, may be referred to as wireless mobile devices. The network hardware architecture 916 may be enabled to support communications between wireless mobile devices and other gaming devices in gaming system. In one embodiment, the wireless mobile devices may be used to play games of chance.
The gaming system 900 may use a number of trusted information sources. Trusted information sources 904 may be devices, such as servers, that provide information used to authenticate/activate other pieces of information. CRC values used to authenticate software, license tokens used to allow the use of software or product activation codes used to activate to software are examples of trusted information that might be provided from a trusted information source 904. Trusted information sources may be a memory device, such as an EPROM, that includes trusted information used to authenticate other information. For example, a game play interface 911 may store a private encryption key in a trusted memory device that is used in a private key-public key encryption scheme to authenticate information from another gaming device.
When a trusted information source 904 is in communication with a remote device via a network, the remote device will employ a verification scheme to verify the identity of the trusted information source. For example, the trusted information source and the remote device may exchange information using public and private encryption keys to verify each other's identities. In another example of an embodiment, the remote device and the trusted information source may engage in methods using zero knowledge proofs to authenticate each of their respective identities. Details of zero knowledge proofs that may be used with example embodiments are described in US publication no. 9003/0203756, by Jackson, filed on Apr. 95, 9002 and titled, “Authentication in a Secure Computerized Gaming System, which is incorporated herein in its entirety and for all purposes.
Gaming devices storing trusted information might utilize apparatus or methods to detect and prevent tampering. For instance, trusted information stored in a trusted memory device may be encrypted to prevent its misuse. In addition, the trusted memory device may be secured behind a locked door. Further, one or more sensors may be coupled to the memory device to detect tampering with the memory device and provide some record of the tampering. In yet another example, the memory device storing trusted information might be designed to detect tampering attempts and clear or erase itself when an attempt at tampering has been detected.
The gaming system 900 of example embodiments may include devices 906 that provide authorization to download software from a first device to a second device and devices 907 that provide activation codes or information that allow downloaded software to be activated. The devices, 906 and 907, may be remote servers and may also be trusted information sources. One example of a method of providing product activation codes that may be used with example embodiments is describes in previously incorporated U.S. Pat. No. 6,264,561.
A device 906 that monitors a plurality of gaming devices to determine adherence of the devices to gaming jurisdictional rules 908 may be included in the system 900. In one embodiment, a gaming jurisdictional rule server may scan software and the configurations of the software on a number of gaming devices in communication with the gaming rule server to determine whether the software on the gaming devices is valid for use in the gaming jurisdiction where the gaming device is located. For example, the gaming rule server may request a digital signature, such as CRC's, of particular software components and compare them with an approved digital signature value stored on the gaming jurisdictional rule server.
Further, the gaming jurisdictional rule server may scan the remote gaming device to determine whether the software is configured in a manner that is acceptable to the gaming jurisdiction where the gaming device is located. For example, a maximum wager limit may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and the rule enforcement server may scan a gaming device to determine its current software configuration and its location and then compare the configuration on the gaming device with approved parameters for its location.
A gaming jurisdiction may include rules that describe how game software may be downloaded and licensed. The gaming jurisdictional rule server may scan download transaction records and licensing records on a gaming device to determine whether the download and licensing was carried out in a manner that is acceptable to the gaming jurisdiction in which the gaming device is located. In general, the game jurisdictional rule server may be utilized to confirm compliance to any gaming rules passed by a gaming jurisdiction when the information needed to determine rule compliance is remotely accessible to the server.
Game software, firmware or hardware residing a particular gaming device may also be used to check for compliance with local gaming jurisdictional rules. In one embodiment, when a gaming device is installed in a particular gaming jurisdiction, a software program including jurisdiction rule information may be downloaded to a secure memory location on a gaming machine or the jurisdiction rule information may be downloaded as data and utilized by a program on the gaming machine. The software program and/or jurisdiction rule information may used to check the gaming device software and software configurations for compliance with local gaming jurisdictional rules. In another embodiment, the software program for ensuring compliance and jurisdictional information may be installed in the gaming machine prior to its shipping, such as at the factory where the gaming machine is manufactured.
The gaming devices in game system 900 may utilize trusted software and/or trusted firmware. Trusted firmware/software is trusted in the sense that is used with the assumption that it has not been tampered with. For instance, trusted software/firmware may be used to authenticate other game software or processes executing on a gaming device. As an example, trusted encryption programs and authentication programs may be stored on an EPROM on the gaming machine or encoded into a specialized encryption chip. As another example, trusted game software, i.e., game software approved for use on gaming devices by a local gaming jurisdiction may be required on gaming devices on the gaming machine.
In example embodiments, the devices may be connected by a network 916 with different types of hardware using different hardware architectures. Game software can be quite large and frequent downloads can place a significant burden on a network, which may slow information transfer speeds on the network. For game-on-demand services that require frequent downloads of game software in a network, efficient downloading is essential for the service to viable. Thus, in example embodiments, network efficient devices 910 may be used to actively monitor and maintain network efficiency. For instance, software locators may be used to locate nearby locations of game software for peer-to-peer transfers of game software. In another example, network traffic may be monitored and downloads may be actively rerouted to maintain network efficiency.
One or more devices in example embodiments may provide game software and game licensing related auditing, billing and reconciliation reports to server 912. For example, a software licensing billing server may generate a bill for a gaming device operator based upon a usage of games over a time period on the gaming devices owned by the operator. In another example, a software auditing server may provide reports on game software downloads to various gaming devices in the Gaming Network 900 and current configurations of the game software on these gaming devices.
At particular time intervals, the software auditing server 912 may also request software configurations from a number of gaming devices in the Gaming Network. The server may then reconcile the software configuration on each gaming device. In one embodiment, the software auditing server 912 may store a record of software configurations on each gaming device at particular times and a record of software download transactions that have occurred on the device. By applying each of the recorded game software download transactions since a selected time to the software configuration recorded at the selected time, a software configuration is obtained. The software auditing server may compare the software configuration derived from applying these transactions on a gaming device with a current software configuration obtained from the gaming device. After the comparison, the software-auditing server may generate a reconciliation report that confirms that the download transaction records are consistent with the current software configuration on the device. The report may also identify any inconsistencies. In another embodiment, both the gaming device and the software auditing server may store a record of the download transactions that have occurred on the gaming device and the software auditing server may reconcile these records.
There are many possible interactions between the components described with respect to
Although several example embodiments of one or more aspects and/or features have been described in detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that aspects and/or features are not limited to these precise embodiments, and that various changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of spirit of the invention(s) as defined, for example, in the appended claims.
The present application is a Continuation-In-Part of pending International Patent Application No. PCT/CN2013/074516 (WIPO Pub. No. WO/2013/159688), titled “REMOTE, LIVE, MULTIPLAYER GAMING TECHNIQUES IMPLEMENTED VIA COMPUTER NETWORK”, naming Jay CHUN as inventor, filed on 22 Apr. 2013, designating the United States, which claims benefit of priority of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/844,142 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,727,892) titled “REMOTE, LIVE, MULTIPLAYER GAMING TECHNIQUES IMPLEMENTED VIA COMPUTER NETWORK” by CHUN et al., filed on 15 Mar. 2013. Each of these applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 13844142 | Mar 2013 | US |
| Child | PCT/CN2013/074516 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | PCT/CN2013/074516 | Apr 2013 | US |
| Child | 14793490 | US |
