Methods And Devices For A Game Of Chance

Abstract

A game of chance played with a dealer usually representing the house or the casino, 2 or more players, a specially marked game interface, three specially marked dice, and multiple rounds of betting. This invention allows for the dealer to participate in the game as a risk-bearing participant, and invites any interested players or non-players to place side bets on each roll outcome. Viewed as two games played simultaneously, the primary game engages the actual players who are bound to continue playing and betting until the throw outcome, TA (or tA occuring in conjunction with the player rolling the dice having placed one or more chips on tA on the Combo Bets section of the board) ends the game. The secondary or bonus game allows current players to become involved but also engages non-players who can become involved at any time throughout the duration of the game so long as their “side bet” is placed prior to each throw of the dice, with their release from the secondary or bonus game at the end of each throw.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of entertainment and games, and more particularly, to the field of casino games of chance.

BACKGROUND

Games incorporating elements of chance are well known in the art, especially those that have particular application in gambling institutions (like casinos), and include Poker, Black Jack, Roulette, Baccarat, Craps, Caribbean Stud, Let It Ride, and Pai Gow Poker, among others. The primary objective of these types of games is to provide entertainment, but their success as measured by gambling institutions is determined by income generation, which is directly linked to how many players are attracted and how well their interest is maintained. The present invention offers an improvement to the games of chance already out there by offering a secondary game to give players and side-betting spectators an enjoyable diversion that occupies idle time between plays, and by providing rules of play that are easy to learn and understand, that are group inclusive rather than isolating, that are competitive but nevertheless induce a sense of team spirit, and that offer multiple opportunities for placing bets and winning. This unique combination of components achieves a more engaged, social and lively group of players and side-betting spectators, who will unlikely feel reluctant to play and possibly lose due to unfamiliar rules and/or strategies, and who will, through their show of enthusiasm and enjoyment alone, attract to the game even more potential players and side-betting spectators.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a new and useful game of chance particularly well suited for use in casinos.

A method of playing a game of chance is disclosed, one preferred embodiment providing a plurality of wager elements indicating monetary value (“elements”), a first set of players, a second set of players, a game interface comprising one or more designated spaces for use by the first set of players and one or more designated spaces for use by the second set of players, and one or more devices capable of generating random outcomes (“device(s)”). The elements will be divided equally or unequally among the first and second set of players so that one or more of these elements may be placed at a time on the spaces of the game board. At least one outcome of one or more of the devices controlled by a single player within the first set of players will permit the first set of players to terminate play, and at least one outcome will not permit the first set of players to terminate play, but all outcomes will permit the second set of players to terminate play. The random outcome generated by the device(s) will have a pre-defined set of payout odds associated with it.

To begin the game, all of the first set of players will be required to place one or more elements on the game board at each of the one or more designated spaces for use by the first set of players. The second set of players will be permitted to place one or more elements on the game board at one or more designated spaces for use by the second set of players. A single player will be selected from the first set of players to control the device(s). The first set of players and the second set of players will await the outcome generated by the device(s). Based on the outcome generated by the device(s) and according to the pre-determined payout odds associated with an outcome and the placement of the respective elements on the game board at one or more designated spaces for use by the second set of players, the second set of players will collect payment for winning wages. Based on the outcome generated by the device(s) and according to the pre-determined payout odds associated with this outcome and the placement of the respective elements on the game board at one or more designated spaces for use by the first set of players, the first set of players will collect payment for winning wages. The second set of players will then be permitted to place one or more elements on the game board at one or more designated spaces for use by the second set of players. These steps will be repeated, starting with a single player being selected from the first set of players to control the device(s), until a random outcome is generated which permits the first set of players to terminate play. When a random outcome is generated which permits the first set of players to terminate play, then the game ends.

It is not intended that the present invention be limited by the nature of the device(s) used to generate random outcomes. In one embodiment, a wheel is spun, said wheel comprising spaces with printed indicators, and the outcome is determined by where the wheel comes to rest at the end of the spin (there may be multiple designators, thereby permitting the wheel to come to rest at two or more points, thus allowing for the outcome to be a combination of indicators). Alternatively, a pointer is spun on a surface, said surface comprising spaces with printed indicators, and the outcome is determined by what space is pointed to by the pointer at the end of the spin (the pointer can have two ends and generate a combined outcome by each end pointing to a difference space). Where a machine is used for the game, in one embodiment, the random outcomes are determined by a pattern of symbols visible on the front of the machine in a manner similar to a slot machine. More specifically, matching or non-matching symbols, either on mechanical reels that spin and stop to reveal one or several symbols, or on a video screen, can be employed. The symbols are preferrably brightly colored and easily recognizable, such as images of fruits, and simple shapes such as bells, diamonds, or hearts. Alternatively, indicators T, T, T, P, P, and P are displayed on the machine or video screen, in combination with indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, and 2, in order to generate the combinations described herein. Alternatively, indicators t, T, T, p, P, and P are displayed on the machine or video screen, in combination with indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, and 2, in order to generate the combinations described herein.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT NO. 1

In one preferred embodiment, the device(s) may include a first and second dice containing a plurality of faces, each face comprising at least one printed indicator.

The printed indicators may be selected from the group consisting of numbers, letters, and symbols.

The printed indicator on the upward face of the first die and the printed indicator on the upward face of the second die may, when rolled by a single player, be combined to indicate the random outcome.

The first die may have six faces marked with indicators T, T, T, P, P, and P.

The second die may have six faces marked with indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, and 2.

The device(s) comprising a first die containing six faces marked with indicators T, T, T, P, P, P, and a second die marked indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, and 2, when rolled by a single player, may be combined to indicate TA, which may indicate play is terminated for the first set of players.

Two or more designated spaces on the game board for use by the first set of players may comprise a space designating the Player's Pot, and a space designating the “House” or “Casino” Pot. In one embodiment, a dealer (optional), who is usually representing the house or the casino, controls movement of the wager elements out of the House or Casino Pot, as well as the role of the House Purse in the play of the game.

One or more spaces on the game board for use by the second set of players may comprise a space broken down into segments designated AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, and T2.

There may be a third die with a plurality of faces, each face comprising a different color, which third die may be rolled with the first and second die by a single player, generating a random outcome.

The third die may have six faces with six different colors of red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black.

There may be a space on the game board for use by the second set of players, which may contain a distinct figure.

There may be a space on the game board for use by the second set of players, which may contain the distinct figure of a Mardi Gras mask.

The game board may be depicted electronically.

The game board may be positioned on top of a casino table.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, and a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, and a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, and a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with six distinct colors or red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color, and a fifth space marked with a distinct figure comprising a cartoon.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color, and a fifth space marked with a distinct figure comprising a depiction of an animal.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color, and a fifth space marked with a distinct figure comprising a depiction of a face (or head or other body part) of a human or non-human animal.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color, and a fifth space marked with a distinct figure comprising a depiction of a silhouette.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color, and a fifth space marked with a distinct figure comprising a depiction of a mask.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1 and T2, a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color, and a fifth space marked with a distinct figure comprising a depiction of a distinct figure of a Mardi Gras mask.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT NO. 2

In another preferred embodiment, the device(s) may include a first, a second, and a third die containing a plurality of faces, each face comprising at least one printed indicator.

The printed indicators may be selected from the group consisting of numbers, letters, and symbols.

The printed indicator on the upward face of the first die, the printed indicator on the upward face of the second die, and the printed indicator on the upward face of the third die, may, when rolled by a single player, be combined to indicate the random outcome.

The first die may have six faces marked with indicators t, T, T, p, P, and P.

The second die may have six faces marked with indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, and 2.

The third die may have six faces marked with indicators red, blue, yellow, brown, purple, and black.

The device(s) comprising a first die containing six faces marked with indicators t, T, T, p, P, P, a second die marked with the indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, and 2, and a third die marked with indicators red, blue, yellow, brown, purple, and black when rolled by a single player, may be combined to indicate TA and any color, which may indicate play is terminated for the first set of players.

The device(s) comprising a first die containing six faces marked with indicators t, T, T, p, P, P, a second die marked with the indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, and 2, and a third die marked with indicators red, blue, yellow, brown, purple, and black when rolled by a single player, may be combined to indicate tA and any color. When this outcome (i.e., “tA” and any color) occurs in conjunction with a side-bet having been placed by the player rolling the dice for tA on the Combo Bets portion of the board, may indicate play is terminated for the first set of players.

One or more designated spaces on the game board for use by the first set of players may comprise a space designating the Player's Pot. In one embodiment, a dealer (optional), who is usually representing the house or the casino, controls movement of the wager elements of the House in and out of the Player's Pot as well as the role of the House Purse in the play of the game.

One or more designated spaces on the game board for use by both the first set of players and the second set of players may comprise a space designating Combo Bets, which is broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, pH.

One or more designated spaces on the game board for use by both the first set of players and the second set of players may comprise a space designating Bayou Bets, which is broken down into segments designated HT and AP.

One or more spaces on the game board for use by both the first set of players and the second set of players may comprise a space designating Number Bets, which is broken down into segments designated P1, P2, T1, T2.

There may be a third die with a plurality of faces, each face comprising a different color, which third die may be rolled with the first and second die by a single player, generating a random outcome.

The third die may have six faces with six different colors of red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black.

There may be a space on the game board for use by both the first set of players and the second set of players, which may contain a distinct figure or figures.

There may be a space on the game board for use by both the first set of players and the second set of players, which may contain the distinct figure or figures of a Mardi Gras mask.

There may be a space on the game board for use by both the first set of players and the second set of players, which may contain a distinct figure or figures which match the plurality of faces indicated on one or more of the dice.

The game board may be depicted electronically.

The game board may be positioned on top of a casino table.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, and a second space designating the Combo Bets, which is broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, and pH.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Players' Pot, a second space designating Combo Bets, which is broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, and pH, and a third space designating Number Bets, which is broken down into segments P1, P2, T1, and T2.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating Combo Bets, which is broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, and pH, a third space designating Number Bets, which is broken down into segments P1, P2, T1, and T2, and a fourth space designating Color Bets, which is broken down into segments containing red Mardi Gras masks, blue Mardi Gras masks, yellow Mardi Gras masks, brown Mardi Gras masks, purple Mardi Gras masks, and black Mardi Gras masks.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating Combo Bets, which is broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, and pH, a third space designating Number Bets, which is broken down into segments P1, P2, T1, and T2, a fourth space designating Color Bets, which is broken down into segments containing red Mardi Gras masks, blue Mardi Gras masks, yellow Mardi Gras masks, brown Mardi Gras masks, purple Mardi Gras masks, and black Mardi Gras masks, and a fifth space designating Bayou Bets, which is broken down into segments HT, and AP.

The game board may comprise a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating Combo Bets, which is broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, and pH, a third space designating Number Bets, which is broken down into segments P1, P2, T1, and T2, a fourth space designating Other Bets, which is broken down into distinct figures, and a fifth space designating Bayou Bets, which is broken down into segments HT, and AP.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a depiction of a preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention (Preferred Embodiment No. 1) containing several designated spaces for the placement of wagers and the preferred name and logo of the game. “A” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space broken down into segments corresponding to each possible throw outcome of combined die 1 (T, T, T, P, P, and P) and die 2 (1, A, H, 2, 1, 2), or AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, and T2, for the placement of wagers. “B” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space broken down into six distinct colors or red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black corresponding to each possible throw outcome of the third die, which depicts those exact 6 distinctly marked colors, for the placement of wagers. “C” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space marked House Pot (or Casino Pot) for the placement of wagers. The depiction of “50/50” refers to the roll outcome HP, and the requirement that the House pay the player rolling the dice 50% of the House Pot while sweeping the other 50% of the House Pot into the House Purse. “D” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space marked with a Mardi Gras mask for the placement of wagers. “E” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space marked Player's Pot for the placement of wagers. “F” is the preferred name and logo of the game (Cajun Craps). It does not constitute a designated space for the placement of wagers.

FIG. 2 is a depiction of the rules and steps of the game in the preferred embodiment of the present invention (Preferred Embodiment No. 1).

FIG. 3 is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of die 1 (T, T, T, P, P, and P), die 2 (1, A, H, 2, 1, 2), and die 3 (red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black) (Preferred Embodiment No. 1).

FIG. 4 is a depiction of a preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention (Preferred Embodiment No. 2) containing several designated spaces for the placement of wagers and the preferred name and logo of the game. “A” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for the Player's Pot. “B” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for Number Bets, broken down into segments corresponding to the throw outcomes of die 1 and die 2 of P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, t2. “C” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for the Bayou Bets, broken down into segments corresponding to the throw outcomes of die 1 and die 2 of HT and AP. “D” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for the Combo Bets, broken down into segments corresponding to the throw outcomes of die 1 and die 2 of At, pA, Ht, pH. “E” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for the Color bets, broken down into segments corresponding to the throw outcomes of die 3 of red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black. “F” is the preferred name and logo of the game (Cajun Craps). It does not constitute a designated space for the placement of wagers. “G” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for displaying the odds of the Color Bets of 3 to 1. “H” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for displaying the odds of the Number Bets of 1 to 1. “I” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for displaying the odds of the Bayou Bets of 4 to 1. “J” is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of the Game Board of the present invention comprising a designated space for displaying the makeup of the pool of money to be won, or “$25 Plus Bet” (with $25 being the amount of money put in at the start of each game by the House).

FIG. 5A is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of die 1 (t, T, T, p, P, and P) (Preferred Embodiment No. 2), FIG. 5B is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of die 2 (1, A, H, 2, 1, 2) (Preferred Embodiment No. 2), and 5C is a depiction of the preferred embodiment of die 3 (red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black) (Preferred Embodiment No. 2).

Definitions

Bayou Bets refer to bets placed by the First Set of Players, Second Set of Players and/or Side-Betting Spectators on the possible throw outcomes in the preferred embodiment of the Game of die 1 and die 2 of HT, and AP.

Color Bets refer to bets placed by the First Set of Players, Second Set of Players and/or Side-Betting Spectators on the possible throw outcomes in the preferred embodiment of the Game of die 3 of red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black.

Combo Bets refer to bets placed by the First Set of Players, Second Set of Players and/or Side-Betting Spectators on the possible throw outcomes in the preferred embodiment of the Game of die 1 and die 2 of At, pA, Ht, or pH.

Dealer refers to the agent, employee or representative of the banker and the sponsor of a the disclosed invention, including a casino, betting parlor, cocktail lounge, video owner or lessee, so-called banker participant, and the like.

Devices can refer to dice, wheels, pointers, machines, playing cards, software and the like manipulated by the First Set of Players in order to generate a random outcome.

First Set of Players refers to those players who are engaged in the Primary Game disclosed in this invention.

House or Casino refers to the banker and the sponsor of the disclosed invention, including a casino, betting parlor, cocktail lounge, video owner or lessee, so-called banker participant, and the like.

House Pot or Casino Pot refers to those designated spaces on the disclosed game board for the collection of wager elements indicating monetary value in possession of the Dealer, who is usually representing the House or the Casino in the play of the game.

House Purse is the collection of wager elements indicating monetary value in possession of the Dealer, who is usually representing the House or the Casino in the play of the game. Where the game is played electronically, the role of the Dealer is played by the machine or software, and the House Purse is maintained through the machine or software under the management of the Dealer or the House.

Number Bets refer to bets placed by the First Set of Players, Second Set of Players and/or Side-Betting Spectators on the possible throw outcomes in the preferred embodiment of the Game of die 1 and die 2 of P1, p1 , P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, and t2.

Player's Pot refers to those designated spaces on the disclosed game board for the collection of wager elements indicating monetary value in possession of the First Set of Players in the Primary Game.

Primary Game refers to the game disclosed in this invention, which is played by the First Set of Players.

Secondary Game or Bonus Game refers to the game played by interested players as well as non-players who can become involved at any time throughout the duration of the Primary Game so long as their “side bet” is placed prior to each manipulation of the utilized device (in one embodiment a throw of the dice), with their release from the Secondary or Bonus Game at the end of each manipulation of the utilized device (in one embodiment a throw of the dice).

Second Set of Players refers to those players who are engaged in the Secondary or Bonus Game disclosed in the subject invention. This set of players can include players as well as non-players or side-betting spectators.

Side-Betting Spectators are members of the crowd or non-players who are not engaged in the Primary Game but are participating in the Secondary or Bonus Game.

Wager Elements (“Elements”) are tokens indicating monetary value, and can include such things as money, chips, or chits.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT NO. 1

In its most complete version, the present invention will include the following components: A dealer usually representing the house or the casino in the play of the game, 2 or more players, and 1 or more non-players or side-betters. A game board as depicted in FIG. 1 comprising spaces designating the Player's Pot (FIG. 1E), spaces designating the House Pot or Casino Pot (FIG. 1C), spaces broken down into segments as AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, T2 (FIG. 1A), spaces broken down into segments marked with six distinct colors or red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black (FIG. 1B), and spaces marked with a distinct figure, a Mardi Gras mask (FIG. 1D) for the placement of wagers. Three dice (FIG. 2), with the first die having six positions marked T, T, T, P, P, P (FIG. 2); the second die having six positions marked 1, A, H, 2, 1, 2 (FIG. 2); and, the third die having six sides corresponding to the segmented space on the board of red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black (FIG. 2). Chips denoting monetary value. It also consists of the following steps: To begin the game, each player puts two chips into Player's Pot and one chip into House Pot. The first player is chosen by design; namely, the House pulls from a shuffled, standard 52-card deck, and places, one card in front of each player. The player in possession of the highest card is designated the first player of the game. Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place any number of side bets on the outcome of a particular throw by placing any number of chips on the spaces marked AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, T2, red, blue, yellow, brown, purple, black, and/or the Mardi Gras mask. Moving clockwise, each player has a turn to roll the dice and can receive any one of these 8 throws—AP, which means that all players should put one chip into the Player's Pot; P1, which means that the player rolling dice should put one chip into the Player's Pot; P2, which means that the player rolling dice should put two chips into the Player's Pot; T1, which means that the player rolling dice should take one chip out of the Player's Pot; T2, which means that the player rolling dice should take two chips out of the Player's Pot; HT, which means that the House takes all of the chips in the House Pot and all players should then put one chip into the House Pot; HP, which means that the House pays the player rolling the dice 50% of the House Pot and sweeps the other 50% of the House Pot into the House Purse; or, TA, which means that the player rolling the dice takes all of the chips in the House Pot and all of the chips in the Player's Pot. The third die can produce one of 6 outcomes of red, blue, yellow, brown, purple or black. Once the throw is completed, the House will sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning segments into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment, based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. If the throw outcome is TA, then the House will also distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the Mardi Gras mask based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to Mardi Gras mask. If the throw outcome is not TA, then the House will sweep away all chips placed on the Mardi Gras mask into the House Purse. New side bets can be placed prior to each roll of the dice. Once the game starts, no new players can enter the game and it ends when someone gets TA. At the end of the game, money is distributed to each player according to the monetary value assigned to the chips they have won, and a new game can begin.

The present invention is not limited in form to home-entertainment game boards or game tables. The game interface and components could also be transformed for other uses, including but not limited to video games, electronic gambling, gaming machines, and internet-based gambling. Additionally, and in an effort not to be limited by the physical space available around the present invention's table in a casino-based and/or other similar setting, remote gaming station(s) displaying live feed of the game in progress could be utilized for the placing of side bets. These remote gaming stations could exist in a number of forms, including but not limited to one main station manned by a representative of the Casino who accepts bets placed by all non-players and awards winnings; or individual remote gaming stations which allow non-players to buy and place side bets electronically and be awarded winnings electronically.

In operation, one embodiment of the present invention comprises the following steps. To begin the game, each player puts a pre-determined amount of chips into Player's Pot (in one embodiment 2 chips) and a pre-determined amount of chips into the House Pot (in one embodiment 1 chip). The first player is chosen by chance or by design (in one embodiment, the House pulls from a shuffled, standard 52-card deck, and places one card in front of each player. The player in possession of the highest card is designated the first player of the game). Moving clockwise, each player has a turn to roll the dice and can receive any one of these 8 throws -- AP, which means that all players should put a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 1 chip) into the Player's Pot; P1, which means that the player rolling the dice should put a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 1 chip) into the Player's Pot; P2, which means that the player rolling the dice should put a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 2 chips) into the Player's Pot; T1 , which means that the player rolling the dice should take a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 1 chip) out of the Player's Pot; T2, which means that the player rolling the dice should take a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 2 chips) out of the Player's Pot; HT, which means that the House takes a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment all chips) in the House Pot and all players should then put a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 1 chip) into the House Pot; HP, which means that the House pays the player rolling the dice a pre-determined amount of chips from the House Pot (in one embodiment 50% of the House Pot) and the House sweeps into the House Purse a pre-determined amount of the chips from the House Pot (in one embodiment the other 50% of the House Pot); or, TA, which means that the player rolling the dice takes a pre-determined amount of chips from both the House Pot (in one embodiment all chips) and the Player's Pot (in one embodiment all chips). Once the game starts, no new players can enter the game and it ends when someone gets TA. At the end of the game, money is distributed to each player according to the monetary value assigned to the chips they have won, and a new game can begin.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more of the following steps: Inclusion on the game interface of spaces made available for the placing of side bets by players and non-players alike. In one embodiment; an additional space is broken down into segments corresponding to each possible throw outcome, or AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, T2. Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place any number of side bets on the outcome of a particular throw by placing any number of chips on the spaces marked AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, and/or T2. Once the throw is completed, the House will sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning segments into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment, based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. New side bets can be placed prior to each throw. For the purposes of illustration, if a player or non-player places a $1 chip on the throw outcome, AP, and the throw outcome is AP (with 10 to 1 odds assigned to the throw outcome, AP), then that player will be awarded $10.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more of the following steps: Inclusion on the game interface of an additional space broken down into segments marked with distinct colors or figures (in one embodiment the colors red, blue, yellow, brown, purple, and black) and an operating device of chance (in one embodiment a die) with corresponding distinct colors or figures for the placing of side bets. In this embodiment of the game, this additional die will be included with the other two dice in all rolls. Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place any number of side bets on the outcome of a particular throw by placing any number of chips on the distinctly marked spaces (in one embodiment red, blue, yellow, brown, purple, and/or black). Once the throw is completed, the House will sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning segments into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment, based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. New side bets can be placed prior to each throw. For the purposes of illustration, if a player or non-player places a $1 chip on the throw outcome, Blue, and the throw outcome is Blue (with 6 to 1 odds assigned to the throw outcome, Blue), then that player will be awarded $6.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more of the following steps: Inclusion on the game interface of an additional space marked with a distinct color or figure (in one embodiment a Mardi Gras mask) which equals a predetermined throw outcome (in one embodiment the throw outcome, TA). Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place a side bet on the outcome of a pre-determined throw (in one embodiment the throw outcome, TA) by placing any number of chips on the distinctly marked space (in one embodiment a Mardi Gras mask). If the throw outcome is as predicted (in one embodiment the throw outcome, TA), then the House will distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment (in this embodiment a Mardi Gras mask) based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome (in one embodiment the throw outcome, TA). If the throw outcome is not as predicted (in this embodiment any throw outcome except the throw outcome, TA), then the House will sweep away all chips placed on the distinctly marked space (in this embodiment a Mardi Gras mask) into the House Purse. New side bets can be placed prior to each throw. For the purposes of illustration, if a player or non-player places a $1 chip on the Mardi Gras mask (with a predetermined throw outcome assigned to it of TA), and the throw outcome is TA (with 20 to 1 odds assigned to this throw outcome), then that player will be awarded $20.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT NO. 2

In its most complete version, the present invention will include the following components: A dealer usually representing the house or the casino in the play of the game, 2 or more players, and 1 or more non-players or side-betters. A game board as depicted in FIG. 4 comprising a space designating the Player's Pot (FIG. 4A), spaces designating the Number Bets (FIG. 4B), spaces designating the Bayou Bets (FIG. 4C), spaces designating the Combo Bets (FIG. 4D), and spaces designating the Color Bets (FIG. 4E) for the placement of wagers. Three dice (FIG. 5), with the first die having six positions marked t, T, T, p, P, P (FIG. 5A); the second die having six positions marked 1, A, H, 2, 1, 2 (FIG. 5B); and, the third die having six sides corresponding to the segmented spaces on the board depicting Mardi Gras Masks in red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black (FIG. 5C). Chips denoting monetary value. It also consists of the following steps: To begin the game, each player puts two chips into the Player's Pot and the House puts one chip into the Player's Pot. The first player is chosen by design; namely, the House pulls from a shuffled, standard 52-card deck, and places, one card in front of each player. The player in possession of the highest card is designated the first player of the game. Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place any number of side bets on the outcome of a particular throw by placing any number of chips on the spaces marked for Number Bets (FIG. 4B), Bayou Bets (FIG. 4C), Combo Bets (FIG. 4D), or Color Bets (FIG. 4E). Moving clockwise, each player has a turn to roll all three dice and can receive any one of these 12 throws produced from die 1 and die 2—AP or Ap, which means that the player rolling the dice looses his/her turn and should pass the dice to the next player; P1 or p1, which means that the player rolling the dice should put one chip into the Player's Pot; P2 or p2, which means that the player rolling the dice should put two chips into the Player's Pot; T1 or t1, which means that the player rolling the dice should take one chip out of the Player's Pot; T2 or t2, which means that the player rolling the dice should take two chips out of the Player's Pot; HT or Ht, which means that the House takes all of the chips in the Player's Pot and all players should then put one chip into the Player's Pot; HP or Hp, which means that the player rolling the dice gets another roll of the dice; TA, which means that the player rolling the dice takes all of the chips in the Player's Pot; or tA, which means that the player rolling the dice loses his turn and should pass the dice to the next player; unless the player rolling the dice has also placed one or more chips on the Combo Bets section of the board as tA, in which case tA means that the player rolling the dice takes all of the chips in the Player's Pot. The third die can produce one of 6 outcomes of red, blue, yellow, brown, purple or black. Once the throw is completed, the House will sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning sections of the Board for Number Bets, Bayou Bets, Combo Bets, and Color Bets into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning sections of the Board for Number Bets, Bayou Bets, Combo Bets, and Color Bets, based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. If the throw outcome is TA, or tA in conjunction with one or more chips having been placed by the player rolling the dice on the tA Combo Bets sections of the board, then the House will also sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning sections of the Board for Number Bets, Bayou Bets, Combo Bets, and Color Bets into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning sections of the Board for Number Bets, Bayou Bets, Combo Bets, and Color Bets, based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. New side bets can be placed prior to each roll of the dice. Once the game starts, no new players can enter the game and it ends when someone gets TA, or tA in conjunction with one or more chips having been placed by the player rolling the dice on the tA Combo Bets section of the board. At the end of the game, money is distributed to each player according to the monetary value assigned to the chips they have won, and a new game can begin.

The present invention is not limited in form to home-entertainment game boards or game tables. The game interface and components could also be transformed for other uses, including but not limited to video games, electronic gambling, gaming machines, and internet-based gambling. Additionally, and in an effort not to be limited by the physical space available around the present invention's table in a casino-based and/or other similar setting, remote gaming station(s) displaying live feed of the game in progress could be utilized for the placing of side bets. These remote gaming stations could exist in a number of forms, including but not limited to one main station manned by a representative of the House who accepts bets placed by all non-players and awards winnings; or individual remote gaming stations which allow non-players to buy and place side bets electronically and be awarded winnings electronically.

In operation, one embodiment of the present invention comprises the following steps. To begin the game, each player puts a pre-determined amount of chips into the Player's Pot (in one embodiment 2 chips) and the House puts a pre-determined amount of chips into the Player's Pot (in one embodiment 1 chip). The first player is chosen by chance or by design (in one embodiment, the House pulls from a shuffled, standard 52-card deck, and places one card in front of each player. The player in possession of the highest card is designated the first player of the game). Moving clockwise, each player has a turn to roll the dice (in the preferred embodiment 3 dice) and can receive any one of these 12 throws produced from die 1 and die 2—AP or Ap, which means that the player rolling the dice looses his/her turn and should pass the dice to the next player; P1 or p1, which means that the player rolling the dice should put a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 1 chip) into the Player's Pot; P2 or p2, which means that the player rolling the dice should put a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 2 chips) into the Player's Pot; T1 or t1, which means that the player rolling the dice should take a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 1 chip) out of the Player's Pot; T2 or t2, which means that the player rolling the dice should take a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 2 chips) out of the Player's Pot; HT or Ht, which means that the House takes a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment all chips) out of the Player's Pot and all players should then put a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment 1 chip) into the Player's Pot; HP or Hp, which means that the player rolling the dice gets another roll of the dice; TA, which means that the player rolling the dice takes a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment all chips) out of the Player's Pot; or tA, which means that the player rolling the dice loses his turn and should pass the dice to the next player; unless the player rolling the dice has also placed one or more chips on tA on the Combo Bets section of the board, in which case tA means that the player rolling the dice takes a pre-determined amount of chips (in one embodiment all chips) out of the Player's Pot. Once the game starts, no new players can enter the game and it ends when someone gets TA, or tA in conjunction with one or more chips having been placed by the player rolling the dice on the tA Combo Bets section of the board. At the end of the game, money is distributed to each player according to the monetary value assigned to the chips they have won, and a new game can begin.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more of the following steps: Inclusion on the game interface of spaces made available for the placing of side bets by players and non-players alike. In one embodiment, inclusion on the game interface of a designated space for Number Bets, broken down into segments corresponding to the throw outcomes of die 1 and die 2 of P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, t2. Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place any number of side bets on the outcome of a particular throw by placing any number of chips on the spaces marked for Number Bets. Once the throw is completed, the House will sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning segments (in this embodiment all chips placed on Number Bets when the throw outcome is not P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, or t2) into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment (in this embodiment all chips placed on Number Bets when the throw outcome is P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, or t2), based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. New side bets can be placed prior to each throw. For the purposes of illustration, if a player or non-player places a $1 chip on the space designated for Number Bets, and the throw outcome is P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, or t2 (with 1 to 1 odds assigned to the Number Bets or P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, or t2), then that player will be awarded $1.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more of the following steps: Inclusion on the game interface of an additional space for the Bayou Bets, broken down into segments corresponding to the throw outcomes of die 1 and die 2 of HT and AP for the placing of side bets. Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place any number of side bets on the outcome of a particular throw by placing any number of chips on the spaces marked HT and/or AP. Once the throw is completed, the House will sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning spaces into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment, based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. New side bets can be placed prior to each throw. For the purposes of illustration, if a player or non-player places a $1 chip on the throw outcome, HT, and the throw outcome is HT (with 4 to 1 odds assigned to the throw outcome, HT), then that player will be awarded $4.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more of the following steps: Inclusion on the game interface of an additional space for the Combo Bets, broken down into segments corresponding to the throw outcomes of die 1 and die 2 of At, pA, Ht, and pH for the placing of side bets. Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place any number of side bets on the outcome of a particular throw by placing any number of chips on the spaces marked At, pA, Ht and/or pH. Once the throw is completed, the House will sweep away all chips remaining on the non-winning spaces into the House Purse and distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment, based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome. New side bets can be placed prior to each throw. For the purposes of illustration, if a player or non-player places a $1 chip on the throw outcome, Ht, and the throw outcome is Ht (with 15 to 1 odds assigned to the throw outcome, Ht), then that player will be awarded $15.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more of the following steps: Inclusion on the game interface of an additional space marked with distinct colors or figures (in one embodiment Red Mardi Gras masks, Blue Mardi Gras masks, Yellow Mardi Gras masks, Brown Mardi Gras masks, Purple Mardi Gras masks, and Black Mardi Gras masks) which equals a predetermined throw outcome (in one embodiment the throw outcomes of die 3 of Red, Blue, Yellow, Brown, Purple, or Black). Prior to a player rolling the dice, any player or non-player can place a side bet on the outcome of a pre-determined throw (in one embodiment the throw outcome, Blue) by placing any number of chips on the distinctly marked space (in one embodiment a Blue Mardi Gras mask). If the throw outcome is as predicted (in one embodiment the throw outcome, Blue), then the House will distribute winnings (which will be taken directly from the House Purse) to all players and non-players whose chips were placed on the winning segment (in this embodiment a Blue Mardi Gras mask) based on the monetary value assigned to each player's placed chip(s) and the pre-determined odds assigned to that throw outcome (in one embodiment the throw outcome, Blue). If the throw outcome is not as predicted (in this embodiment any throw outcome except the throw outcome of Blue), then the House will sweep away all chips placed on the distinctly marked space (in this embodiment a Blue Mardi Gras mask) into the House Purse. New side bets can be placed prior to each throw. For the purposes of illustration, if a player or non-player places a $1 chip on the Blue Mardi Gras mask (with a predetermined throw outcome assigned to it of Blue), and the throw outcome is Blue (with 3 to 1 odds assigned to this throw outcome), then that player will be awarded $3.

The foregoing description of one or more embodiments of the invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. The description was selected to best explain the principles of the invention and practical application of these principles to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention not be limited by the specification, but be defined by the claims as set forth below.

Claims

1. A method for game play in a game of chance, comprising:

a) providing a plurality of wager elements indicating monetary value, a first set of players, a second set of players, a game board comprising two or more designated spaces for said first set of players and one or more designated spaces for said second set of players, and one or more devices capable of generating random outcomes, said plurality of elements divided equally or unequally among said first and second set of players so that said elements may be used in said game by placing one or more elements at a time on said spaces of said game board, said one or more devices controlled by a single player within said first set of players, wherein at least one outcome permits said first set of players to terminate play and wherein at least one outcome does not permit said first set of players to terminate play, wherein all outcomes permit said second set of players to terminate play;

b) selecting a single player from said first set of players to control said device;

c) requiring all of said first set of players to place one or more elements on said game board at each of said two or more designated spaces for said first set of players;

d) permitting any player from said second set of players to place one or more elements on said game board at said one or more designated spaces for said second set of players;

e) generating a random outcome with said device under the control of said single player;

f) determining whether said random outcome permits said first set of players to terminate play.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said random outcome does not permit said first set of players to terminate play.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising repeating steps c)-f) until a random outcome is generated which permits said first set of players to terminate play.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein said one or more devices comprise first and second dice, said dice comprising a plurality of faces, each face comprising at least one printed indicator.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein said printed indicator is selected from the group consisting of numbers, letters, and symbols.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the indicator on the upward face of said first die and the indicator on the upward face of said second die, when rolled by said single player, are combined to indicate the random outcome.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the first die has six faces marked with indicators T, T, T, P, P, and P.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein said second die has six faces marked with indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, 2.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the combination TA indicates play is terminated for said first set of players.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein said two or more designated spaces on said game board for said first set of players comprises a space designating the Player's Pot, and a space designating the House Pot.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein said one or more spaces on said game board for said second set of players comprises a space broken down into segments designated AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, T2.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising a third die comprising a plurality of faces, each face comprising a different color, said third die rolled with said first and second dice at step e).

13. The method of claim 12, wherein said third die has six faces and wherein said different colors comprise red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein said game board further comprises a space broken down into segments marked with six colors comprising red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein said game board further comprises a space with a distinct figure.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein said distinct figure is selected from a face, a mask, a silhouette, a cartoon, and a picture.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein said distinct figure is a Mardi Gras mask.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein said game board is depicted electronically.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein said game board is positioned on top of a casino table.

20. A game board comprising a first space designating the Player's Pot, a second space designating the House Pot, and a third space broken down into segments AP, TA, HT, HP, P1, P2, T1, T2.

21. The game board of claim 20, further comprising a fourth space broken down into segments, each segment marked with a distinct color.

22. The game board of claim 21, wherein said six distinct colors are red, blue, yellow, brown, purple and black.

23. The game board of claim 20, further comprising a space with a distinct figure.

24. The game board of claim 23, wherein said distinct figure is selected from a drawing and a picture.

25. The game board of claim 23, wherein said distinct figure comprises a cartoon.

26. The game board of claim 23, wherein said distinct figure comprises a depiction of an animal.

27. The game board of claim 23, wherein said distinct figure comprises a face of a human or non-human animal.

28. The game board of claim 23, wherein said distinct figure comprises a silhouette.

29. The game board of claim 23, wherein said distinct figure comprises a mask.

30. The game board of claim 29, wherein said mask is a Mardi Gras mask.

31. A method for game play in a game of chance, comprising:

a) providing a plurality of wager elements indicating monetary value, a first set of players, a second set of players, a game board comprising one or more designated spaces for said first set of players and one or more designated spaces for said second set of players, and one or more devices capable of generating random outcomes, said plurality of elements divided equally or unequally among said first and second set of players so that said elements may be used in said game by placing one or more elements at a time on said spaces of said game board, said one or more devices controlled by a single player within said first set of players, wherein at least one outcome permits said first set of players to terminate play and wherein at least one outcome does not permit said first set of players to terminate play, wherein all outcomes permit said second set of players to terminate play;

b) selecting a single player from said first set of players to control said device;

c) requiring all of said first set of players to place one or more elements on said game board at each of said one or more designated spaces for said first set of players;

e) permitting any player from said second set of players to place one or more elements on said game board at said one or more designated spaces for said second set of players;

e) generating a random outcome with said device under the control of said single player;

determining whether said random outcome permits said first set of players to terminate play.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein said one or more devices comprise first and second dice, said dice comprising a plurality of faces, each face comprising at least one printed indicator.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the indicator on the upward face of said first die and the indicator on the upward face of said second die, when rolled by said single player, are combined to indicate the random outcome.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the first die has six faces marked with indicators t, T, T, p, P, and P; and wherein said second die has six faces marked with indicators 1, A, H, 2, 1, 2.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the combination TA indicates play is terminated for said first set of players.

36. The method of claim 31, wherein said one or more designated spaces on said game board for said first set of players comprises a space designating the Player's Pot.

37. The method of claim 31, wherein said one or more spaces on said game board for said second set of players comprises one or more spaces for Number Bets, broken down into segments designated P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, t2.

38. The method of claim 31, wherein said one or more spaces on said game board for said second set of players comprises one or more spaces for Bayou Bets, broken down into segments designated HT and AP.

39. The method of claim 34, wherein said one or more spaces on said game board for said second set of players comprises one or more spaces for Combo Bets, broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, and pH.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the combination tA in conjunction with one or more elements having been placed by the player in control of the device on tA on the space designated Combo Bets.

41. A game board comprising a first space designating the Player's Pot.

42. The game board of claim 41, further comprising a second space designating Number Bets, broken down into segments designated P1, p1, P2, p2, T1, t1, T2, t2.

43. The game board of claim 42, further comprising a third space for Bayou Bets, broken down into segments designated HT and AP.

44. The game board of claim 43, further comprising a fourth space for Combo Bets, broken down into segments designated At, pA, Ht, and pH.