Apparatus and a method for playing a game

Abstract

A method of playing a game. The game has plurality of possible outcomes and establishes a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome. A wager is established by a player on one of the outcomes. The player wager includes a stake and a selected wager outcome. The game establishes an actual outcome. The actual outcome is compared to the selected wager outcome. If the actual outcome matches the selected outcome, a payout is determined by a function of the product of the stake and the fractional payout multiplier associated with the selected outcome.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation in part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/243,870, filed Oct. 5, 2005 (Attorney Docket No. 60,708-001) and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/731,600, filed Oct. 28, 2005 (Attorney Docket No. 60,708-002), both of which are hereby incorporated by reference

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method of playing a wagering game and a method for determining a payout.

2. Background of the Invention

Various games already exist in a gaming arena. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,264 offers a dice game that uses two six-sided dice and with a payout for either a single roll or a wager where a winner is determined two consecutive rolls. U.S. Pat. No. 6,893,019 offers a dice game that uses three six-side dice to determine a winning wagers. The game offers various payout odds for each wager and a winning wager is determined by the sum of the single die, a pair of dice, or all three dice, on a single roll of all three dice.

However, few of the prior art games ever are successful because they often have complex wagering schemes or are too simple to captivate a player.

The present invention is aimed at one or more of the problems as set forth above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus is provided. The gaming apparatus includes an outcome generator and a controller. The outcome generator generates an actual outcome. The actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the random outcome generator, and for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a second aspect of the present invention, a method provides a game having a plurality of possible outcomes. The method includes the steps of establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome and allowing a player to place a wager on a chosen outcome. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game. The method also includes the step of randomly establishing an actual outcome of the game and modifying the stake as a function of the wager and the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a third aspect of the present invention, a slot gaming apparatus is provided. The slot gaming apparatus includes an outcome generator to generate an actual outcome and a controller. The actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes. The outcome generator includes a plurality of rotating reels. Each rotating reel having one or more reel positions. Each reel position has an associated fractional value. The outcome generator has one or more paylines being composed of at least one reel position. The controller rotates the reels and establishes an actual outcome. The actual outcome has a fractional payout multiplier. The fractional payout multiplier is determined as a sum of the fractional values of the at least one reel position of one of the paylines. The controller allows a player to place a wager. The wager including a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus is provided. The gaming apparatus includes at least one roulette wheel and a controller. The at least one roulette wheel has a track with a plurality of cassettes. Each cassette has an associated fractional value. The at least one roulette wheel generates an actual outcome. The actual outcome including one of the cassettes. The controller is coupled to the roulette wheel for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the at least one roulette wheel and for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus is provided. The gaming apparatus includes an outcome generator and a controller. The outcome generator generates an actual outcome. The actual outcome is one of a plurality of possible outcomes. The outcome generator includes a deck of cards, wherein at least one card is dealt to a player. The cards having an associated fractional value. The controller establishes a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the random outcome generator and allows a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a sixth aspect of the present invention a gaming apparatus is provided. The gaming apparatus includes at least one gambling wheel to generate an actual outcome and a controller. The actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes. The at least one gambling wheel has a plurality of chambers. Each chamber having an associated fractional value. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the gambling wheel and for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In a seventh aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus is provided. The gaming apparatus includes a lottery wheel and a controller. The lottery wheel forms a cavity and has a plurality of lottery balls located in the cavity. Each lottery ball has an associated fractional value. The lottery wheel generates an actual outcome. The actual outcome is one of a plurality of possible outcomes. The controller is coupled to the lottery wheel for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the lottery wheel and for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller modifies the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

In an eighth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus having an outcome generator and a controller is provided. The outcome generator generates a plurality of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has a primary value from a set of possible values. The set of possible values has a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a chosen outcome. The controller establishes an actual outcome by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In a ninth aspect of the present invention, a method for providing a game having a plurality of possible outcomes is provided. The method includes the step of establishing a plurality of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has a primary value from the set of possible values. The set of possible values has a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values. The method also includes the step of allowing a player to place a wager on a chosen outcome and allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The method further includes the steps of establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In a tenth aspect of the present invention, a slot gaming apparatus having an outcome generator and a controller is provided. The outcome generator generates an actual outcome. The actual outcome is one of a plurality of possible outcomes. The outcome generator has a plurality of rotating wheels. Each rotating wheel reel has one or more reel positions. Each reel position has an associated primary value. The primary value being from the set of possible values having predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values. The outcome generator has one or more pay lines composed of at least one reel position. The controller rotates the reels and establishes an actual outcome. The actual outcome is determined as the sum of the primary values of the at least one reel position of one of the pay lines. The controller allows a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller pays to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus having a plurality of roulette wheels and a controller is provided. Each roulette wheel has a track with a plurality of cassettes. Each cassette has an associated value. Each value is from a set of possible values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values. Each roulette wheel generates a primary outcome. The primary outcome includes one of the cassettes. The controller is coupled to the roulette wheel for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and the chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller establishes an actual outcome of the game. The actual outcome is determined as a sum of the primary values associated with the cassette of the primary outcome of each roulette wheel. The controller pays to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus having an outcome generator and a controller is provided. The outcome generator establishes a plurality of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has a primary value from the set of possible values. The set of possible values has a predetermined number of possible values and an equal number of opposite negative values. The outcome generator includes a deck of cards wherein at least one card is dealt to a player. Each card is associated with a primary outcome. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller establishes an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player a pay out if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In a thirteenth aspect of the present invention gaming apparatus having at least one gambling wheel and a controller is provided. The at least one gambling wheel establishes a plurality of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has a primary value from a set of possible values. The set of possible values has a predetermined number of possible values and an equal number of opposite negative values. The gambling wheel has a plurality of chambers. Each chamber being associated with a primary outcome. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller establishes an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player a pay out if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

In a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a gaming apparatus having at least one lottery wheel and a controller is provided. The at least one lottery wheel establishes a plurality of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has a primary value from a set of possible values. The set of possible values has a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values. The at least one lottery wheel forms a cavity and has a plurality of lottery balls located in the cavity. Each lottery ball is associated with a primary outcome. The controller is coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game. The controller establishes an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player a pay out if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a gaming apparatus for providing a game, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a gaming apparatus for providing a game implemented on a game computer, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a gaming apparatus for providing a game across a network, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a simple flow diagram of a method for providing a game, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a table game;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a fractional payout;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a complete single game;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a table embodiment for playing multiple games on one playing surface;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a table game for implementing a part or entire electronic version of the game;

FIG. 10 is a screen display for a software version of the game;

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied in a slot machine, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied in a single roulette wheel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied in a slot machine in a double roulette wheel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14A is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied in a card game, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14B is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied in a card game, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied in a gambling wheel, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and,

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming apparatus embodied in lottery wheel, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to the drawings, wherein like numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, and in operation, the present invention provides a gaming apparatus and method for the play of a game. The gaming apparatus and the method are generally referred to by reference numbers 10 and 40, respectively.

With particular reference to FIG. 1, the gaming apparatus 10 includes an outcome generator 12 and a computer-based controller 14 coupled thereto. The outcome generator 12 generates an actual outcome of the game. The actual outcome is one of a plurality of possible outcomes (see below).

In one aspect of the present invention, a fractional payout multiplier is established for each possible outcome and stored at the controller 14. The controller 14 allows a player to place a wager. The wager includes a stake, which is typically representative of a monetary amount, and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes. After the outcome generator 12 generates the actual outcome of the game, the chosen outcome is compared with the actual outcome. If the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome, the player's stake is modified as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome.

In another aspect of the present invention, a plurality of primary outcomes are generated. In the examples discussed below, two primary outcomes are generated. However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to a specific number of primary outcomes. Each primary outcome has a primary value from a set of possible of values. The set of possible values have a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative numbers. The actual outcome is the sum of the primary values from the primary outcomes. A payout is paid to the player if the actual outcome matches or equals the chosen outcome. In general, an actual outcome matches or equals the chosen outcome if a predetermined aspect of the actual outcome is the same as the chosen outcome. For example, the predetermined aspect may be whether the actual outcome is positive or negative, the absolute value of the actual outcome, or the value associated with the actual outcome. The predetermined aspect will be chosen based on, inter alia, the type of bet (see below), the odds (based on the game being played), the desired pay table, and any other desired factor.

There are generally three types of bets: a positional bet, a directional bet, or a precision bet. Any implementation may offer one or more of the bet types.

In the positional bet, the patron is wagering that the end result of the game, i.e., the fractional payout value, will have an UP or a DOWN result (corresponding to a positive value or a negative value, respectively). However, if the player guesses correctly, the player's stake is increased by the product of the absolute value of the fractional payout multiplier and the stake. If the player guesses incorrectly, the player's stake is decreased by the product of the absolute value of the fractional payout multiplier and the stake.

In the direction bet, the patron is again wagering that the end result of the game, i.e., the fractional payout value, will have an UP or a DOWN result (corresponding to a positive value or a negative value, respectively). If the player chooses correctly, the payout ratio is 1:1. Thus, if the player had wagered $1 (or 1 credit), the player would receive their original wager back, plus an additional $1 (1 credit). If the player does not choose correctly, the player forfeits their entire wager.

In a precision bet, the player's chosen outcome includes a fractional payout multiplier, in other words, the exact sum of the reel positions on the selected payline. If the player chooses correctly, then the payout is determined using a pay table (which includes a plurality of predetermined multipliers). If the player chooses incorrectly, then the player loses their entire stake.

In one aspect of the present invention, the game apparatus 10 is run on a computer. For example, with particular reference to FIG. 2, the apparatus 10 may include a game computer 20, such as a standalone computer. The game may be implemented using a computer program application 22 which runs on the game computer 20. The outcome generator 12 may also be implemented using a computer program application or may be implemented using a separate random number generator 13 as is known in the art. The random number generator 13 generates a random number out of a total number of possible outcome numbers. It should be noted that although there may be an equal chance of a particular number being generated by the random number generator 13, the probability associated with the possible outcomes of the outcome generator 14 might not be equal.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, the apparatus 10 may include one or more computers 30, linked or networked to the controller 14. In the illustrated embodiment, n computers 30A, 30B. . . 30n are shown. The computers 30 may be linked to the controller 14 using a computer network 32 such as an LAN, WAN, or the Internet. The network 32 may be comprised of wired and/or wireless connections. The controller 14 may be implemented using another computer. One or more players (not shown) may interact with the apparatus 10 via one of the computers 30 to place wagers and track the game being played. Wagers may be made from accounts stored on the apparatus 10 or using funds input into the apparatus 10 using monetary instruments, including cash, tokens, tickets, magnetic stripe cards or other any suitable means.

The outcome generator 12 may be implemented using a known type of game, e.g., one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a deck of playing cards, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel, two or more dice, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the known type of game is simulated by the outcome generator and/or controller.

In another embodiment, the gaming apparatus 10 is implemented as a table game (see below).

In another embodiment, the outcome generator 12 is implemented using physical representations of the known game types to generate the outcome. The actual outcome may be automatically determined or input by a dealer, croupier or other person.

For example, if the outcome generator 12 is implemented using one or more roulette wheels, the actual outcome may be automatically read by reading markers embedded in the roulette ball(s) or read using a camera and computer-based pattern recognition. Alternatively, the croupier may input the results into the controller. Other methods for recognizing and identifying the actual outcome may also be used, e.g., RFID chips, barcodes, etc. . . . , may be used appropriately to establish the actual outcome.

In one embodiment of the present invention one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are negative and one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are positive.

In one embodiment, the player may make a wager on whether the actual outcome is either positive or negative. In other words, the chosen outcome is “negative” or “positive” and the actual outcome may be equal the chosen outcome if the fractional payout multiplier of the actual outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

In another embodiment, the outcome generator, in establishing an actual outcome of the game, randomly establishes first and second primary outcomes of the game. Each primary outcome has an associated fractional value. The fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes of the game are added to establish the actual outcome of the game. The sum of the of the fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes may be positive or negative.

For example, in one embodiment, each of the first and second primary outcomes of the game may have an associated value of +½, +¼, +⅛, −½, −¼, or −⅛. Thus the possible sums of the associated fractional values of the first and second primary outcomes are +1, +⅝, +⅜, +¾, +½, +¼,+¼, 0, −¼, −½, −¾, − 3/9, −⅝, and −1

In one aspect, the player may make a wager on the exact value of the fractional value associated with the actual outcome. In other words, the player may make a wager that the actual outcome will have an associated fractional output of, e.g., +⅝. For example, the chosen outcome may be a number and the actual chosen outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the fractional outcome is equal to the chosen outcome. Alternatively, the chosen outcome may be a number and the actual chosen outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the absolute value of the fractional outcome is equal to the chosen outcome.

Alternatively, the player may make a wager on the absolute value of the fractional value of the actual outcome. In other words, the player's chosen outcome may be ⅝. The actual outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the absolute value of the actual outcome is equal to ⅝, i.e., if the fractional value associated with the actual outcome is +⅝ or −⅝.

In another aspect, the player may make a wager on whether the fractional value of the actual outcome will be negative or positive. The chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractional outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

If the chosen outcome is equal to the actual outcome (however determined, see above), the outcome may be characterized as a “win”. If the chosen outcome is not equal to the actual outcome, the outcome may be characterized as a “loss”.

In one embodiment, if the player experiences a win, they are awarded a payout according to a predetermined pay table. The pay table includes a plurality of payout multipliers.

In one embodiment, the payout is determined as a function of the player's stake is multiplied by the payout multiplier. For example, payout multipliers may be a series of positive multipliers. If the player experiences a win, then the player is awarded a payout equal to the player's stake multiplied by the corresponding payout multiplier.

In another embodiment, the payout multipliers is a fractional value. If the player experiences a win, then their stake is increased by the product of the corresponding fractional payout multiplier (or the absolute value thereof, if negative). The player loses, then the player's stake is decreased by the product of the corresponding fractional payout multiplier (or the absolute value thereof, if negative). It should be noted that the fractional payout multiplier's may be equal to 0 or 1.

With specific reference to FIG. 4, a method 40 for providing a game having a plurality of possible outcomes is shown. In a first step 42, step a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome is established. In a second step 44, a player is allowed to place a wager on a chosen outcome. The wager includes a stake and a chosen outcome. The chosen outcome is one of the possible outcomes of the game. In a third step 46, an actual outcome of the game is randomly established. The actual outcome being one of the possible outcomes. It should be noted that each of the possible outcome may not have an equal probability. In a fourth step 47, the stake is modified as a function of the wager and the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Dice Game

With specific reference to FIGS. 5-10, wherein like numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, and in operation, the present invention provides a device and method for the play of a dice game. The device may take the form of a mat, table cloth, cover, place mat or the like, and can be implemented as software for play on a computer, a video game, and as a stand alone or for play over a computer network or the internet. Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

As shown in FIG. 5, an embodiment of the device and method as played on a table 110. The table 110 is similar to those used for the play of craps, including a rail 112 surrounding a playing surface 114. The rail 112 extends up from the playing surface 114 for keeping the dice within the playing surface 114. The playing surface 114 further defines a wagering area 116. The game involves a player predicting the random outcomes of a pair of die 118. Each die 118 has a plurality of faces 120, e.g., six. The dice 118 have a plurality of rolled outcomes that comprises of the combination of one the faces 120, or associated values, from each of the die 118. In one embodiment, the outcome of the dice 118 corresponds to a fractional payout multiplier 122 that is less than or equal to one. The fractional payout multiplier 122 determines a payout for each outcome of the dice 118.

The dice 118 are identical having an equal number of sides, and faces. In one embodiment, each face 120 of the die 118 presents either a positive or negative value. In addition, each die 118 has the same indicators, with one face 120 indicating a positive value and another face 120 presents an opposite negative value. For example, if the die 118 had a face 120 presenting a four another face 120 on the same die would present a negative four. The numerical markings on the dice could indicate the positive and negative values utilizing various indications such as a sign before the value, coloring, i.e., red for negative and green for positive, or any additional marking known in the art. The rolled outcome of the dice 118 is equal to the sum of the associated values of a top face 120 for each of the rolled die 118. In one embodiment, the dice 118 indicate a positive or negative value as discussed above, for this embodiment the rolled outcome of the dice 118 could be a positive value, a negative value or a zero. For example, the dice 118 are rolled and the rolled outcome is determined by combining or algebraically summing the top face 120 presented on each of the die 118, as shown in the following table:

		Rolled Outcome
Die 1 (top face)	Die 2 (top face)	(for the pair of dice)
¼	−⅛	⅛
−½	−½	−1
½	−⅛	⅜

As illustrated in FIG. 6, a method 200 that includes a first step 202, to begin the game, a player places a wager on one of the rolled outcomes to indicate a selected wager outcome. Each wager consists of a wager amount and the selected wager outcome, corresponding to the player's prediction of a next rolled outcome of the dice 218. In a second step 104, the dice 118 are rolled to establish a rolled outcome of the dice 118 based on the sum of the values or indicators on the top faces 120 of the rolled dice 118. As known in the art, the dice could be rolled by a player, a machine, randomly generated by a computer program, or a croupier. In a third step 206, the rolled outcome of the dice 118 is compared to the selected wager outcome. In a fourth step 208, a payout is calculated for a match between the selected wager outcome and the rolled outcome. The payout is a portion of the wager amount calculated by a function of the product of the wager amount and the fractional multiplier, i.e., the wager amount times the fractional multiplier. In a fifth step 210, the payout is paid increasing the wager amount. Alternatively, in a fourth step 212, if the rolled outcome does not match the selected wager outcome, the payout is a portion of the wager amount calculated by the function of the product of the wager amount and the fractional multiplier. Finally, in an alternative fifth step 214, the wager amount is decreased by the payout.

The payout is determined as a function of a product of the wager amount and the fractional payout multiplier. For example, if a given outcome (combination of the end result for each die) has an established fractional multiplier of ¼, or 0.25, if a player establishing a wager on this selected wager outcome and the rolled outcome matches, are paid the wager amount plus the payout, calculated by a function equal to the product of the wager amount times the fractional payout, or ¼, to increase the player wager by ¼. However, if the selected wager outcome does not match the rolled outcome, the payout is subtracted from the wager amount to partially reduce or decrease of the wager amount. However, it is to be understood that each possible rolled outcome of the dice has an established fractional multiplier, that is a fractional value less than or equal to one.

One embodiment of the dice game includes the use of a pair of six sided die. The dice each have six faces and each face presents one of the following fractional numbers ½, ¼, ⅛, −½, −¼ and −⅛. Therefore the possible rolled outcomes are 1, ¾, ⅝, ½, ⅜, ¼, ⅛, −1, −¾, −⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼ and −⅛, and a zero. The established fractional multiplier for each rolled outcome is equal to the absolute value of the rolled outcome. For example, the player places a wager that includes a wager amount of $100 on a selected wager outcome of “positive” as the player's prediction of the next rolled outcome. The dice are then rolled and the top face 120 of each die 118 is combined, by summing the indicated value, e.g. +½. In this example, the rolled outcome is the sign, i.e., positive (or “up”) or negative (or “down”) of the sum. If the rolled outcome (positive) matches the selected rolled outcome of the wager (positive), the fractional payout multiplier, the absolute value of rolled outcome, or ½ in the given example, the payout is a function of the product of the fractional payout multiplier times the wager amount of $100 to equal a payout of $50. Since the rolled outcome and the selected wager outcome match, the payout is added to the wager amount of 100 for a total of $150. However, if the player placed the wager amount on the selected wager outcome of negative (or “down”) and the rolled outcome was positive, the payout is the same as calculated above and equal to $50, but for a selected wager outcome not matching the rolled outcome, the payout of $50 is subtracted from the wager amount of $100 therefore decreasing the player wager to $50.

As shown in FIG. 5, another embodiment of the table 110 or a device establishes the game with a wager area 116 divided into several wager areas, a first wager area 226, a second wager area 228 and a third wager area 230. Each of the wager areas 226, 228, 230 provides different payouts and increased wagering options and further adds the possibility for larger payouts.

The first wager area 226 incorporates the fractional payout multiplier 122 to determine a payout as already discussed above and establishes the fractional payout multiplier 122 for each rolled outcome. The payout, as discussed above, is added to the wager amount if there is a match between the rolled outcome and the selected wager outcome. However, the payout is subtracted from the wager amount if the selected wager outcome does not match the rolled outcome. This embodiment includes the second wager area 228 for a player to establish a second wager. The payout of the second wager area 228 is determined by a second payout multiplier 232 that is established for all wagers in the second wager area. The third wager area 230 allows for a player to establish a third wager on each of the possible rolled outcomes, and a third payout multiplier 234 established for each of the possible rolled outcomes. The third multiplier 234 can vary, as known in the art, according to the odds of the rolled outcome which allow for payouts that are increase based on the odds of each of the rolled outcomes.

The first wager area, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, includes a first wager indicator 236 and second wager indicator 238. The first wager indicator 236 is for a player to place a wager indicating a first group of rolled outcomes as the selected wager outcome, which in this embodiment, are the rolled outcomes that are positive numbers. The second wager indicator 238 is for a player to place a wager indicating a second group of rolled outcomes as the selected wager outcome, which in this embodiment, are the rolled outcomes that are negative numbers. However, it is understood that the first and second group can include any combination of possible rolled outcome.

A player establishes a wager by placing a first wager amount on the first wager indicator 36 or the second wager indicator 238, selecting the selected wager outcome to indicate the player's prediction on the next rolled outcome. A payout is determined by comparing the rolled outcome to the selected wager outcome as discussed above and utilizing the fractional payout multiplier 122 to determine the payout. A rolled outcome of zero results in a push, leaving the player wagers in the first wager area 226. It is understood that any rolled outcome could further indicate a push, the described embodiment utilizes zero since the dice contain both positive and negative values or numbers.

The second wager area 228 is established by presenting a third wager indicator 40 to indicate the first group of rolled outcomes as the selected wager outcome and a fourth wager indicator 242 to indicate the second group of rolled outcomes as the selected wager outcome. The second payout multiplier 232 is established for the third wager indicator 240, and the fourth wager indicator 242. A player establishing a second wager places a second wager amount on the third or fourth indicator 240, 242 to indicate the selected wager outcome. The rolled outcome is compared to the selected wager outcomes of the second wager area 228, and a second payout is disbursed if the rolled outcome matches the selected wager outcomes. The second payout is equal to an amount as a function of a product of the wager amount of the second wager and the second payout multiplier 232. For example, of the second payout multiplier 232 could be set as one for the third and fourth wager indicator 240, 242, meaning that the payout is equal to the wager amount. Therefore, a match between the rolled outcome and the selected wager outcome would double the wager amount. However, if the selected wager does not match the rolled outcome the house collects the wager amount. It should be understood that the second payout multiplier 232 could be of any multiplier to establish variations of payouts for the third and fourth wager indicators 240, 242.

The third wager area 230 is established and presents a wager indicator 244 for each possible rolled outcome of the dice. A third payout multiplier 234 is established for each possible rolled outcome. A third wager is established by a player placing a wager amount on a selected wager indicator 244 in the third wager area to define a selected wager outcome. The player places the third wager on the player's prediction of the next rolled outcome. The payout is determined by comparing the rolled outcome to the selected wager outcome of the third wager. If the rolled outcome matches the selected wager outcome of the third wager, then a third payout equal to an amount as a function of a product of the wager amount of the third wager and the third payout multiplier 34. However, if the selected wager does not match the rolled outcome the house collects the wager amount.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, a method 220 that includes a first step 222, to begin the game a player places a wager in one of the wager area, the first, second or third wager areas, 226, 228, 230 to indicate a selected wager outcome. Each wager consists of a wager amount and the selected wager outcome, corresponding to the player's prediction of a next rolled outcome of the dice 118. In a second step 224, the dice 118 are rolled to establish a rolled outcome of the dice 118 based on the sum of the values or indicators on the top faces 120 of the rolled dice 118. As known in the art, the dice 118 could be rolled by a player, a machine, randomly generated by a computer program, or a croupier. In a third step 226, the rolled outcome of the dice 118 is compared to the selected wager outcome. In a fourth step 228, a payout is calculated for a match between the selected wager outcome and the rolled outcome. The payout is a portion of the wager amount calculated as a function of the product of the wager amount where the payout multiplier is the fractional multiplier for wagers in the first area 126, the second multiplier for wagers in the second wager area 128, or the third multiplier for wagers in the third area 130. In a fifth step 230, the payout is paid increasing the wager amount. In a sixth step 232, if the rolled outcome does not match the selected wager outcome, it must be determined if the wager was placed in the first wager area. If the wager was not placed in the first wager area then the method includes a seventh step 234 of the house collecting the wager amount. If the wager was established in the first wager area 126 the method includes an eight step 236, where the payout is calculated by the function of the product of the wager amount and the fractional multiplier. Finally, in a ninth step 238 the wager amount is decreased by the payout.

One embodiment of the dice game includes the use of a pair of six sided die 118. The dice 118 each have six faces 120 and each face 120 presents one of the following fractional numbers ½, ¼, ⅛, −½, −¼ and −1/8. Therefore, the possible rolled outcomes are 1, ¾, ⅝, ½, ⅜, ¼, ⅛, −1, −¾, −⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛, and a zero. The first wager area 26 presents the first wager indicator 136 to indicate the first group of numbers being the positive rolled outcomes, i.e., 1, ¾, ⅝, ½, ⅜, ¼, ⅛ and the second wager indicator 38 to indicate the second group of numbers being the negative rolled outcomes, i.e., −1, −¾, −⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛. The second wager area 128 presents the third wager indicator 140 for the first group and the fourth wager indicator 142 for the second group of numbers. The third wager area 130 presents the wager indicators 144 for each of the possible rolled outcomes. A player establishes a player wager on one of the wager indicators 136, 138, 140, 142, 144 to define the selected wager outcome. The dice 118 are rolled and top faces 120 are algebraically summed to determine the rolled outcome. The rolled outcome is compared to the selected wager outcome to determine a winning match. A player having a winning match is paid the establish payout multiplier for the wager indicators 136, 138, 140, 142, 144 in each of the wager areas 126, 128, 130.

A winning match in the first wager area 126 to determine the payout results the fractional payout multiplier is determined for the rolled outcome, for this embodiment absolute value of the rolled outcome of dice 118. For example, a rolled outcome of ¾ or −¾ has a fractional payout multiplier of ¾ or 0.75. Therefore, each winning match in the first wager area 126 the payout is determined as a function of the product of the wager amount multiplied by fractional payout multiplier, i.e., the absolute value of the rolled outcome multiplied by the wager amount. A player wager in the first wager area 126 on a wager outcome other than the rolled outcome results in the payout as calculated being subtracted from the player wager amount. Also, if the rolled outcome is zero the wagers in the first wager area 126 are left as a push. This embodiment of the dice simplifies the determination of the fractional payout multiplier since it is equal to the absolute value of the rolled outcome. Additional versions of this simplification could include other fractional values or each face 120 could be an equivalent percentage rather than the fractional value, i.e., 12.5%, 25%, and 50% and the fractional payout multiplier could be determine from the sum of the rolled dice in that situation as a percentage increase for a winning match or a percentage decrease for other wagers in the first wager area. Also, as stated before the faces 120 of the dice and the rolled outcome could be any series of number or symbols each having a corresponding fractional payout multiplier.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, the table 110 can further incorporate a display 146. The display 146 adds visualization to the past rolled outcomes to create a trending or data line and may also display the past rolled outcome similar to roulette. The display 146 can add an additional excitement of a stock ticker type experience to the game. The display may provide additional excitement for player with wagers placed in the first wager area 126 since the player could watch the trend and a general increase or decrease to the wager amount over several rolled outcomes. As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6 the display can be incorporated as a graphic display 446, 546.

An additional embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, allows for a table 310 with multiple games played on a single playing surface 314. Each of the dice 318 is marked to identify the pair of die 318 corresponding to each game and each wagering area. The indicators could be additional markings on each face 320 of the dice 318 or simply having multiple pairs of die 318 of various colors or shading. The playing surface 314 includes a first wager area 326, a second wager area 328 and a third wager area 330 for each of the games. The game further establishes a fourth wager area 348 presenting wager indicators to indicate a count number representing the amount of the dice 318 between the several games presenting one of the possible numbers of a face 320 of the dice 318. As shown in FIG. 4 the possible count numbers are 3, 4, 5 and 6, and three games are being played on the playing surface 314. A fourth payout multiplier is established for each count number. A player establishes a fourth wager by placing a fourth wager amount on the wager indicator to indicate a selected count number for the next rolled outcome of the several pairs of die 318. A payout is determined by comparing the rolled outcome of the several pairs of die 318 to the selected count number and paying if a selected count number matches the rolled outcome. A fourth payout is equal to an amount as a function of a product of the wager amount and the fourth payout multiplier. For example, a wager on the count number of 3, could have the fourth payout multiplier of 200, therefore, the payout would equal the fourth wager amount multiplied by the 200. This embodiment further can incorporate a large payout through the use of a progressive pot as a payout in the fourth wager area 348.

Additionally the game can be implemented on a variety of play surfaces 14. One embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, is a standard table 110 game similar to a craps game, with a croupier to facilitate the play, collect losing wagers and pay off each of the player wagers. An electronic table version 410 of the game can further be incorporated on a table display as shown in FIG. 5. The electronic table 410 can simulate the feel of a traditional dice table while providing each player a wager area or electronic kiosk 448 to input the wagers on a first wager area 426, a second wager area 428 or a third wager area 430. The electronic table 410 can be implemented as a full computerized version or have a croupier to facilitate the play and payout of the game.

A software version 510, as shown in FIG. 10, can be incorporated into the electronic table or designed for play on a computer or a video gaming machine. The software version 510, establishes an input screen for the player to place wagers in the each of the wager area 526, 528 and 530. The computer generates the rolled outcome of the dice 520. The software calculates each of the payouts for the wager areas based on the rolled outcome. In addition, both the electronic table and software version could be implemented over a network or the internet.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Slot Machine

With particular reference to FIG. 11, in another embodiment of the present invention, the game apparatus 10 can be implemented as a mechanical or video slot machine 702. In FIG. 11, a graphical representation of a display 704 of an exemplary slot machine 702 is displayed. The slot machine 702 may be implemented in a game cabinet (not shown) which may be placed on a casino floor, bar top or other similar location. Such game cabinets and the associated hardware for providing games are well known in the art and are therefore not further discussed. Furthermore, the slot machine implementation of the present invention may be implemented as a stand-alone unit or a computer game (stand-alone or networked). In computer game implementations, the slot machine game may be simulated by a computer.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

The display 704 presents to a patron one or more reels 706. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 704 includes four reels 706A, 706B, 706C, 706D, although it should be noted that the game apparatus 10 may be implemented with more or less reels 706. One or more reel positions for each reel 706 are displayed in the display 704. Each reel position has an associated fractional value.

Before each play of the game, the player makes a wager which includes a stake (which be in terms of credits or a monetary value) and a chosen outcome. Once the player has made their wager, game play may be initiated automatically or based on player input. The player may also be given the option to chose one or more paylines. In the illustrated embodiment, the player may chose one or more horizontal paylines. Although the player may also be given the option to chosen non-horizontal paylines, including vertical paylines. As in a standard slot machine, once game play is initiated, the reels 706 rotate (or appear) to rotate. When the reel(s) are stopped, based on the factional value associated with the reel positions on the reels 706 of the chosen payline(s), the player's stake may be modified.

In the case of a single reel slot machine, the value associated with the reel position on the selected payline becomes the fractional payout multiplier.

In the case of a multiple reel slot machine, the sum of the values associated with the reel positions on the selected payline is the fractional payout multiplier.

For example for a quadruple reel slot machine, the values associated with the reel positions on each reel may be from the set of: −0.25, −0.20, −0.15, −0.10, −0.05, +0.05, +0.10, +0.15, +0.20, and +0.25.

For example for a double reel slot machine, the values associated with the reel positions on each reel may be from the set of: −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛, +⅛. +¼, +½, and +⅜.

In the illustrated embodiment, the display 704 includes four reels 708A, 708B, 708C, 708D, and includes three horizontal paylines 710A, 710B, 710C. The display 704 also includes three corresponding bet areas: bet area 1 712A, bet area 2 712B, and bet area 3 712C. Each bet area 1 allows the player to make a wager on the selected payline.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Roulette Game

With particular reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, in another embodiment of the present invention, the game apparatus 10 is implemented as a mechanical or video roulette game 802.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

If FIG. 12, a graphical representation of a roulette wheel 804 is shown. The roulette wheel 804 may be an actual device or may be a computer implementation or simulation.

In the illustrated embodiment, the roulette wheel 804 includes a track 806 defined by an outer wall 808 and a central wall 810. The track 806 is separated into a plurality of cassettes 812 for receiving a roulette ball (not shown).

Each cassette 812 has an associated fractional value. The fractional value may be printed or displayed in each cassette. Optionally, alternate or representational symbols may be displayed in each cassette, e.g., color-coded numbers as in a similar to a standard roulette wheel.

One or more players may place a wager, including a stake and a chosen outcome. In discussed above, there are generally three types of bets offered a positional bet, a directional bet, or a precision bet.

In a mechanical implementation, the player(s)' wagers may be placed with chips and managed by a croupier, as in a standard roulette type game. Alternatively, the player(s)' wagers may be placed and managed electronically with the aid of touch-screen display devices 816 (see FIG. 13) connected to the controller 14. Furthermore, the result, i.e., the actual outcome, may be determined in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, (limited or hall effect) sensors located within each cassette, RFID technology, a camera, or actual outcome input or keyed in by the croupier.

In the computer implementation or simulation, the actual outcome is randomly determined by the controller 14 and simulated on the virtual wheel 804.

In a single roulette 804 implementation, the associated fractional value of the corresponding cassette of the actual outcome is the fractional multiplier value (see above). The actual symbols or fractional values may be chosen from a set of predetermined values. Sample sets include, but are not limited to:

• Sample set #1: {−1, −0.9, −0.8, −0.7, −0.6, −0.5, −0.4, −0.3, −0.2, −0.1, 0, +0.1, +0.2, +0.3, +0.4, +0.5, +0.6, +0.7, +0.8, +0.9, +1.0}
• Sample set #2: {−1, −⅞, −¾, −⅝, −½, −⅜, −¼, −⅛, 0, +⅛, +¼, +⅜, +½, +⅝, +¾, +⅞, +1}

With reference to FIG. 13, in another embodiment the game apparatus 10 may include multiple roulette wheels 804A, 804B. It should be noted that while only two roulette wheels 804A, 804B are shown, the present invention is not limited to such. Each of the multiple roulette wheels 804A, 804B has a plurality of cassettes 812 with an associate fractional value. After the player(s) make their wagers, an end result, i.e., one of the cassettes, for each roulette wheel 804A, 804B is determined. In one embodiment, the fractional payout multiplier is the sum of the associated fractional values of the cassettes associated with the end result for each roulette wheel 804A, 804B.

For a two wheel implementation, the fractional values associated with the cassette of each wheel will generally be between −½ and +½, such that the range of the sum of the two fractional values will be equal or between −1 and +1.

The single roulette wheel 804 or the multiple roulette wheels 804A, 804B gaming device 10 may be implemented as a mechanical device or as a computer implementation or simulation, i.e., a virtual wheel.

With specific reference to FIG. 13, either implementation may be implemented on a table 814. The table 814 may include one or more touchscreen display devices (three of which are shown) 816A, 816B, 816B for allowing a player to make wagers and to track their play.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Card Game

With particular reference to FIGS. 14A and 14B, in another embodiment, the gaming apparatus or device 10 may implement a card game. The card game may be implemented using actual or virtual cards. If the game is implemented using actual cards, the card may be read by using embedded identifiers and/or any suitable visual identification means or sensors, or any other suitable means.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

In one embodiment, after each player(s) makes a wager, each player is dealt one or more cards.

Each card has an associated fractional value.

If only one card is dealt to each player, then the fractional payout multiplier for each player is equal to the fractional value of their card. Generally, the fractional value of each card is equal to or between −1 and +1.

If multiple cards are dealt to each player, then the fractional payout multiplier for each player is generally equal to the sum of the fractional values associated with their cards. Generally, the sum of the fractional values of each card cannot exceed −1 or +1.

An example of a two card game 820 is shown in FIG. 14A. An example of a four card game 822 is shown in FIG. 14B.

Each player may make a positional, a precision or a directional bet or wager. The result of each bet is handled in a manner similar as discussed above.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Gambling Wheel

With specific reference FIG. 15, in another embodiment of the present invention, the game apparatus 10 is implemented as a gambling wheel 824. The gambling wheel 824 may be implemented as a mechanical wheel or a virtual wheel.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

The gambling or rotation wheel 824 has a plurality of chambers 826 which are separated by resisting members or pegs 828. Each chamber 826 has an associated fractional value which may be printed thereon. The wheel 824 includes a resisting lever 830.

A player or players may make wager, each including a chosen outcome and a stake. One of the players may initiate rotation of the gambling or rotating wheel 824. In a mechanical implementation of the gambling wheel 824, the wheel's rotation is slowed and ultimately stopped by the resisting lever 830 and the resisting members 826. In a computer or simulation implementation, the actual outcome may be randomly determined (although, it should be noted as indicated above, that each chambers 826 does not necessarily have the same probability).

Each chamber 826 has an associated fractional value. The game apparatus 10 may utility one or multiple gambling wheels 824. In a single gambling wheel implementation, the fractional value associated with the actual outcome, i.e., one of the chambers 826 becomes the fractional payout multiplier. Thus, the fractional values of the chambers will generally have values equal to or between +1 and −1.

In a multiple gambling wheel implementation, the fractional payout multiplier will be equal to the sum of the fractional values of the outcome chamber 826 from each gambling wheel 824. The fractional payout multiplier will generally have a value equal to or between +1 and −1. Thus, for example, in a two wheel implementation, the fractional values associated with the chambers will not exceed +/−½.

Each player may make a positional, a precision or a directional bet or wager. The result of each bet is handled in a manner similar as discussed above.

Gaming Device Implemented as a Lottery Wheel

With specific reference FIG. 16, in another embodiment of the present invention, the game apparatus 10 is implemented as a lottery wheel 840. The lottery wheel 840 may be implemented as a mechanical wheel or a virtual wheel.

Directional and/or positional and/or precision bets may be offered.

The gambling or rotation wheel 840 has an interior cavity 842 for holding a plurality of lottery balls 844. Each lottery ball 844 has an associated fractional value which may be printed thereon. The lottery wheel 840 includes an opening 848 which may include a door for allowing the lottery balls 844 to drop or be removed from the wheel 840.

A player or players may make wager, each including a chosen outcome and a stake. One of the players may initiate rotation of the gambling or rotating wheel 840. In a mechanical implementation of the lottery wheel 824, the wheel 840 will stop rotating and one of the lottery balls 844 will be removed. In a computer or simulation implementation, the actual outcome may be randomly determined (although, it should be noted as indicated above, that each chambers 826 does not necessarily have the same probability).

The game apparatus 10 may utility one or multiple lottery wheels 840. In a single lottery wheel implementation, the fractional value associated with the actual outcome, i.e., one of the lottery balls 844, becomes the fractional payout multiplier. Thus, the fractional values of the lottery balls 844 will generally have values equal to or between +1 and −1.

In a multiple lottery wheel implementation, the fractional payout multiplier will be equal to the sum of the fractional values of the lottery ball 844 from each gambling wheel 824. The fractional payout multiplier will generally have a value equal to or between +1 and −1. Thus, for example, in a two wheel implementation, the fractional values associated with the balls 844 will not exceed +/−½.

Each player may make a positional, a precision or a directional bet or wager. The result of each bet is handled in a manner similar as discussed above.

Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

an outcome generator to generate an actual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes; and,

a controller coupled to the outcome generator for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the random outcome generator, for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

2. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the outcome generator is one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a deck of playing cards, a table game, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel, two or more dice, or any combination thereof.

3. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, wherein one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are negative and one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are positive.

4. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome if the fractional payout multiplier of the actual outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

5. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, the outcome generator, in establishing an actual outcome of the game randomly, establishes first and second primary outcomes of the game, each primary outcome having an associated fractional value, and adds the fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes of the game to establish the actual outcome of the game.

6. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 5, wherein the sum of the fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes may be positive or negative.

7. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 6, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractional outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

8. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, the controller for reducing the wager as a function of the wager and the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome is not equal to the chosen outcome.

9. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the gaming apparatus is implemented as one of a table game or software run on one or more computers or a computer network.

10. A method for providing a game, the game having a plurality of possible outcomes, including the steps of:

establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome;

allowing a player to place a wager on a chosen outcome, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game;

randomly establishing an actual outcome of the game, the actual outcome being one of the possible outcomes; and,

modifying the stake as a function of the wager and the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

11. A method, as set forth in claim 10, wherein the actual outcome is established using a controller.

12. A method, as set forth in claim 10, wherein the actual outcome is established using one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a table game, a deck of playing cards, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel, two or more dice, or any combination thereof.

13. A method, as set forth in claim 12, including the step of simulating the one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a deck of playing cards, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel, or any combination thereof outcome generator using a computer.

14. A method, as set forth in claim 10, wherein one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are negative and one or more of the fractional payout multipliers are positive.

15. A method, as set forth in claim 14, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome if the fractional payout multiplier of the actual outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

16. A method, as set forth in claim 10, wherein the step of establishing an actual outcome of the game includes the steps of:

randomly establishing first and second primary outcomes of the game, each primary outcome having an associated fractional value; and

adding the fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes of the game to establish the actual outcome of the game.

17. A method, as set forth in claim 16, wherein the sum of the fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes may be positive or negative.

18. A method, as set forth in claim 17, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractional outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

19. A method, as set forth in claim 10, including the step of reducing the wager as a function of the wager and the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome is not equal to the chosen outcome.

20. A method, as set forth in claim 10, wherein the game is implemented as one of a table game or software run on one or more computers or a computer network.

21. A slot gaming apparatus, comprising:

an outcome generator to generate an actual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes, the outcome generator having at least one a rotating reel, the at least one rotating reel having one or more reel positions, each reel position having an associated fractional value, the outcome generator having one or more paylines being composed of at least one reel position; and,

a controller for rotating the at least one reel and establishing an actual outcome, the actual outcome having a fractional payout multiplier, the fractional payout multiplier determined as a function of the fractional values of the at least one reel position of one of the paylines, the controller for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

22. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

at least one roulette wheel, the at least one roulette wheel having a track with a plurality of cassettes, each cassette having an associated fractional value, the at least one roulette wheel for generating an actual outcome, the actual outcome including one of the cassettes; and,

a controller coupled to the roulette for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the at least one roulette wheel, for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

23. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 22, wherein the at least one roulette wheel is a mechanical device or a virtual wheel.

24. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

an outcome generator to generate an actual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes, the outcome generator including a deck of cards, wherein at least one card is dealt to a player, the cards having an associated fractional value; and,

a controller coupled to the outcome generator for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the random outcome generator, for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

25. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 24, the cards are virtual cards.

26. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

at least one gambling wheel to generate an actual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes, the gambling wheel having a plurality of chambers, each chamber having an associated fractional value; and,

a controller coupled to the outcome generator for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the gambling wheel, for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

27. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

a lottery wheel forming a cavity and having a plurality of lottery balls located in the cavity, each lottery ball having an associated fractional value, the lottery wheel for generating an actual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes; and,

a controller coupled to the lottery wheel for establishing a fractional payout multiplier for each possible outcome of the lottery wheel, for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for modifying the stake as a function of the fractional payout multiplier corresponding to the chosen outcome if the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome.

28. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 27, wherein the lottery wheel is a mechanical device or a virtual wheel.

29. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

an outcome generator to generate a plurality of primary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primary value from a set of possible of values, the set of possible values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative numbers; and,

a controller coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a chosen outcome, for establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

30. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 29, wherein the outcome generator is one of a one or more roulette wheels, a slot machine, a deck of playing cards, a table game, a lottery wheel, a gambling wheel, two or more dice, or any combination thereof.

31. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 29, wherein one or more of the actual outcomes are negative and one or more of the actual outcomes are positive.

32. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 31, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome equals the chosen outcome if the actual outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

33. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 32, wherein the payout is equal to 2 times the stake.

34. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 29, the outcome generator, in establishing an actual outcome of the game randomly, establishes first and second primary outcomes of the game, each primary outcome having an associated fractional value and adds the fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes of the game to establish the actual outcome of the game.

35. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 34, wherein the sum of the fractional values associated with the first and second primary outcomes may be positive or negative.

36. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 35, wherein the chosen outcome is either positive or negative and the actual outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractional outcome is positive or negative, respectively.

37. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 34, wherein the chosen outcome is a number and the actual chosen outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the sum of the fractional values is equal to the chosen outcome.

38. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 34, wherein the chosen outcome is a number and the actual chosen outcome is equal to the chosen outcome if the absolute value of the sum of the fractional outcome is equal to the chosen outcome.

39. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 29, wherein the gaming apparatus is implemented as one of a table game or software run on one or more computers or a computer network.

40. A method for providing a game, the game having a plurality of possible outcomes, including the steps of:

establishing a plurality of primary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primary value from a set of possible of values, the set of possible values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values;

allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game;

establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes; and,

paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome ran.

41. A slot gaming apparatus, comprising:

an outcome generator to generate an actual outcome, the actual outcome being one of a plurality of possible outcomes, the outcome generator having a plurality of rotating reels, each rotating reel having one or more reel positions, each reel position having an associated primary value, each primary value being from a set of possible of values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values, the outcome generator having one or more paylines being composed of at least one reel position; and,

a controller for rotating the reels and establishing an actual outcome, the actual outcome determined as a sum of the primary values of the at least one reel position of one of the paylines, the controller for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, and for paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

42. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

a plurality of roulette wheels, each roulette wheel having a track with a plurality of cassettes, each cassette having an associated value, each value being from a set of possible of values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values, each roulette wheel for generating a primary outcome, the primary outcome including one of the cassettes; and,

a controller coupled to the roulette wheel for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, for establishing an actual outcome of the game, the actual outcome determined as a sum of the primary values associated with the cassette of the primary outcome of each roulette wheel, and for paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

43. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 42, wherein the at least one roulette wheel is a mechanical device.

44. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 42, wherein the at least one roulette wheel is a virtual wheel.

45. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

an outcome generator to establish a plurality of primary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primary value from a set of possible values, the set of possible values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values, the outcome generator including a deck of cards, wherein at least one card is dealt to a player, each card being associated with a primary outcome; and,

a controller coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, for establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

46. A gaming apparatus, as set forth in claim 29, the cards are virtual cards.

47. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

at least one gambling wheel to establish a plurality of primary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primary value from a set of possible values, the set of possible values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values, the gambling wheel having a plurality of chambers, each chamber being associated with a primary outcome; and,

a controller coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, for establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player a payout if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.

48. A gaming apparatus, comprising:

at least one lottery wheel to establish a plurality of primary outcomes, each primary outcome having a primary value from a set of possible values, the set of possible values having a predetermined number of positive values and an equal number of opposite negative values, the at least one lottery wheel forming a cavity and having a plurality of lottery balls located in the cavity, each lottery ball being associated with a primary outcome; and,

a controller coupled to the outcome generator for allowing a player to place a wager, the wager including a stake and a chosen outcome, the chosen outcome being one of the possible outcomes of the game, for establishing an actual outcome of the game by summing the primary values of the primary outcomes and for paying to the player a payout, if the actual outcome matches the chosen outcome.