Abstract: A method of managing a free-play and return system allows a business to provide promotional free access to one or more entertainment kiosks such as an arcade game machine. A plurality of free-play codes is managed by at least one remote server. Each free-play code is designated with either a used or unused status and associated with at least one entertainment kiosk, which is communicably coupled with the remote server and includes a code-reading device. New free-play codes may be generated with a code-generating device and appended into the plurality of free-play codes. An unverified code may be inputted into the code-reading device and is then compared to each free-play code with the remote server in order to identify a matching code from the plurality of free-play codes. If the matching code is found and has the unused status, a no-charge use of the entertainment kiosk is executed.

Abstract: An electronic game and method of operating the same are disclosed. The electronic game is of the type requiring manual inputs by a player to electrical apparatus. A payment acceptance apparatus is operable by the same game play input apparatus as that used to receive and process the inputs to play the game. The electronic game may include a display operable to display queries and instructions for the player. The game may be for example a miniature crane operable to grasp and retrieve objects from an object storage area of the electronic game, responsive to manipulation of the crane by manual inputs by the player.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a video amusement gaming system that rewards players with prizes, but that enables modification of a gaming system component without having to replace an existing machine or purchase of a new machine. The gaming system includes electric and electronic hardware components associated with gaming systems, a computer system, a monitor for display of a game, a control panel that resides within the computer system, and an interface control board that enables communications of a first set of signals associated with the control panel and a second set of signals associated with electric and electronic hardware components so to allow the modification of a gaming system component without having to replace an existing or purchase of a new machine.