Abstract: An architecture for an alternative reality game that provides a revenue stream to a game provider. A game objective and a narrative are defined as is a set of collectible game pieces. The collectible game piece comprises a unique identifier and a narrative element. The narrative element of at least some of the collectible game pieces relates to the narrative. A puzzle and a puzzle solution are assigned to the collectible game piece and the puzzle and the puzzle solution are associated with the unique identifier. The puzzle solution of at least some of the collectible game pieces relates to achievement of the game objective. A player purchases a random assortment of collectible game pieces and proffers proffers the unique identifier and a proffered puzzle solution to a game provider server. If the proffered solution is the puzzle solution, the game player is awarded points. A prize is offered to a winning player achieving the game objective and having the most points.