Abstract: A countertop video terminal uses a cooperating structural framework which receives and protects the computer control module, the touchscreen module and the financial transaction module. The touchscreen module is cantilevered from an upright tower support provided at one side of the base. The computer control module is provided on said base and is of a reduced height to define a thin rearwardly extending module. A clear gap or recess is provided between the touchscreen module and the computer control module. The touchscreen preferably partially overlaps with the financial transaction module provided in the tower support.

Abstract: The video game terminal uses a center pedestal and two column members either side of the center pedestal for supporting a touch screen. The center pedestal holds the working components of the terminal including the CPU and payment acceptors. The center pedestal supports the touch screen at a raised position and the columns provide edge support of the touch screen. Preferably, an ambient light arrangement is provided either side of the terminal.

Abstract: A durable input arrangement for a video game terminal uses a joystick controller protected by a player actuating a control assembly. This assembly protects the joystick controller from abusive forces that would otherwise render the controller inoperative.

Abstract: A simplified video game includes a series of timed events where each event is capable of a positive or negative result based on the timing of player input signal. A positive result requires a time period greater than a negative result. The following event automatically is initiated after completion of the preceding event until a certain cumulative time period is reached.

Abstract: A video game terminal includes a series of options and programming capabilities for modifying the operation of the terminal with respect to combination games. Each combination game includes at least first and second game segments, and different options for playing of the combination games. One option allows the player a partial Credit Back after completion of the first game, second segment. In this way, the player can decide to save the Credit Back, rather than continue if the results after the first segment are poor. Another option is directed to the order of play of the different game segments being selected by the player. A further option is the ability for the operator to define a new combination game by selecting different combinations of the game segments.

Abstract: An arrangement for effective updating of video game terminals uses a security key device which is capable of operating next major generation software that at the time of sale or distribution of the security device is not available. Once this software is available, the security key with this forward compatibility to the next major generation of software, allows the owner to update any terminal having the security device. Therefore, existing product, both terminals and/or software upgrades can be sold with the capability for the purchaser to upgrade without return of the security key device. Software can be made generally freely available as it requires a security key device to function. This system is convenient and effective, and allows continued sale of product up to the release of the next major generation of software. The purchaser is buying a next generation key and as such, is buying product that is not about to be replaced.

Abstract: An improved system and method for inputting pool shot instructions for a video game utilize a touch screen and a monitoring arrangement for detecting a player's instruction that a particular proposed shot is to be implemented. The system and method preferably allows shot information to be inputted in a traditional manual type mode or in an automatic mode. The automatic mode generally simulates the action of a pool shot in a conventional pool game, and preferably provides on screen feedback of the proposed direction of the shot prior to the instruction to implement the shot. The automatic mode is easily learned and allows shots to be completed in a different and often more time efficient manner.

Abstract: A countertop video terminal uses a cooperating structural framework which receives and protects the computer control module, the touchscreen module and the financial transaction module. The touchscreen module is cantilevered from an upright tower support provided at one side of the base. The computer control module is provided on said base and is of a reduced height to define a thin rearwardly extending module. A clear gap or recess is provided between the touchscreen module and the computer control module. The touchscreen preferably partially overlaps with the financial transaction module provided in the tower support.

Abstract: A game server system including a game server which is accessed by handheld personal portable devices such as PDA's or cell phones. These personal portable devices have a primary business, data storage, communication or other practical function in combination with a secondary personal entertainment function. The devices have the ability to communicate over a communication network with a game sever computer and download games and/or receive and transmit game information. Certain games of the handheld personal portable devices include as part thereof a tracking arrangement for tracking game use information for later communication to the game server computer. With this arrangement two way synchronization occurs between each handheld personal portable device and the game server computer.

Abstract: A coin operated game terminal is provided with additionally flash memory for effective additional storage of games provided on a separate mass storage arrangement. This additional flash memory allows operation of the game terminal in a restricted mode if the separate mass storage arrangement fails. The flash memory is also used to store determined popular games to reduce delays in loading of the games.