Abstract: A cursor control system is provided whereby a discrete-direction input device, such as a joystick, may be used to accurately move a cursor in both straight and curved lines. The cursor control system may be implemented in software and is ideal for with an electronic drawing application having only a rudimentary joystick-like control and various user buttons. A cursor capable of indicating the direction of movement, such as an arrow, is provided and may be aimed with the joystick. During drawing or movement, depression of the joystick causes the arrow to rotate towards the selected direction at a fixed angular rate such that the arrow travels in a smooth arc. The control system may be arranged so that the rotation of the arrow stops when it has reached the selected direction or so that the arrow continues to rotate even after it has reached the selected direction. The former control method may be used for moving and the latter control method for drawing.

Abstract: In a microprocessor based interactive audio game for two users to play against one another, or for one user to play against the computer, the game having the ability to store and retrieve sets of statistical data corresponding to the performance of actual players, keys for the users to affect the state of the game, and an audio output for communicating the state of the game or the results of a game play to the users, the audio output for a particular game state or game play result being variable in order to maintain user interest. A plurality of visual indicators are arranged in a grid that represents the flight of a thrown ball through a vertical cross section of the strike zone. Visual indicators are sequentially flashed a predetermined number of times and in a predetermined pattern for a particular variety of pitch.