Abstract: A gaming system having an activity invitation platform for integrating activity invitations in real-money gaming systems. The gaming system has a player database, an activity invitation platform and a real-money game application. The player database is adapted to store player game access control data, player game data and player profile data with respect to each players registered to play at least one real-money game with a player console via a network. The activity invitation platform is adapted to generate an activity invitation according to an invitation condition and at least one of the player game data and the player profile data. The real-money game application is adapted to execute the real-money game according to the activity invitation.

Abstract: In an interactive character-based video game, a player is encouraged to spend more real money by providing a bonus game of chance coupled with real money spending from the player. This can be done by providing the game of chance following a purchase of virtual goods and providing a prize in the game of chance that can include real money prizes when the purchase is done using real money. This can also be done by providing a milestone bonus game of chance that includes an option to add to or increase prizes by making an optional bet of real money.