Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for determining the location of online gaming clients are provided. The method includes receiving an initial connection request, identifying at least one client characteristic, wherein the at least one client characteristic includes an internet protocol (IP) address and a client-provided location, analyzing, using the computer device, the at least one client characteristic to determine the location of the client, and allowing the client to use the computer device if the location is within a pre-determined area.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for updating online gaming clients are provided. The method includes receiving an initial connection request, receiving a persistent connection request, establishing a persistent connection in response to the persistent connection request, receiving a request for state data via the persistent connection, determining, by the computer device, the requested state data, and transmitting the requested state data via the persistent connection. The method also includes receiving a user update via the persistent connection, and updating state data based on the user update.