Abstract: Provided is a method of utilizing tokens or charms within gaming, gambling or party systems. The system is typically incorporated into a computer software program which operates an online gaming system. The gaming system may also provide a virtual casino for multiple players to participate in and play together. The method described herein incorporates the use of tokens or charms to provide players with an impression of enhanced winnings and may be used as an alternative to the traditional model of requiring players to purchase additional game currency to continue game play. The tokens or charms may also be used a social component of games involving multiple players as players may be permitted to purchase tokens or charms for each other.

Abstract: Provided is a method of utilizing tokens or charms within gaming, gambling or party systems. The system is typically incorporated into a computer software program which operates an online gaming system. The gaming system may also provide a virtual casino for multiple players to participate in and play together. The method described herein incorporates the use of tokens or charms to provide players with an impression of enhanced winnings and may be used as an alternative to the traditional model of requiring players to purchase additional game currency to continue game play. The tokens or charms may also be used a social component of games involving multiple players as players may be permitted to purchase tokens or charms for each other.

Abstract: Three dimensional (3D) animations of an avatar graphic object are displayed in an environment that lacks high quality real-time 3D animation rendering capability. Before the animation is displayed in the environment at runtime, corresponding 3D and 2D reference models are created for the avatar. The 2D reference model is provided in a plurality of different views or reference angles. A 3D animation rendering program is used to produce 3D motion data for each animation. The 3D motion data define a position and rotation of parts of the 3D reference model. Image files are prepared for art assets drawn on associated parts of the 2D reference model in all views. At runtime in the environment, the position, rotation, and layer of each avatar part in 3D space is mapped to 2D space for each successive frame of an animation, with selected art assets applied to the associated parts of the avatar.