Lot Generator (e.g., Card Distribution, Simulated Dice, Random Number Generator, Etc.) Patents (Class 463/22)
  • Publication number: 20130130776
    Abstract: An apparatus for dice table games aims to dynamically increase odds of a dice table game. The apparatus includes an electronic display panel which has at least one display zone to indicate a corresponding betting area and display dynamic raised odds. Banker can give a player a payout for his/her bet according to the dynamic raised odds. By providing the dynamic raised odds which might be greater than the payout odds of the betting area, the expected value of the dice table game is higher and players can expect extra awards from the disc table game, thus the appeal of the dice table game increases. As a result higher utilization of dice table game can be achieved and idle time can be reduced to avoid wastes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Tien-Shu HSU
  • Patent number: 8444478
    Abstract: A gaming system is disclosed which comprises a symbol selector arranged to select at least one player symbol at each level of a multilevel game from a set of symbols, an outcome generator arranged to determine at each level of the multilevel game a successful or unsuccessful game level outcome based on a comparison of the at least one selected player symbol with at least one reference symbol such that the player proceeds to a succeeding game level if the game outcome is successful and the player does not proceed to a succeeding game level if the game outcome is not successful. The gaming system also comprises a prize allocator arranged to allocate a prize to a player based on the game level the player has successfully completed. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia PTY Ltd
    Inventors: Matthew Chan, Colin Fong, Edgar Pau
  • Patent number: 8444477
    Abstract: A slot machine includes a reel assembly which has a transparent outer reel and a translucent inner reel disposed coaxially within the outer reel. The outer and inner reels are provided with first exterior surfaces on their periphery, and with second exterior surfaces on their side surfaces. The outer and inner reels are driven independently by a respective motor. In performing a first game, the side surfaces are horizontal so that first outer symbols and first inner symbols carried on each of the first exterior surfaces may be observable. In performing a second game, the side surfaces are perpendicular so that second outer symbols and second inner symbols carried on each of the second exterior surfaces may be observable. Symbol combinations are produced by synthesizing the symbols on the outer reel and the symbols on the inner reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventor: Haruo Inoue
  • Patent number: 8444147
    Abstract: A multiple-mode card shuffling and/or card verification device includes a top surface, a card receiving area for receiving an initial set of playing cards, a randomizing or arranging system for the initial set of playing cards that can be disabled, a card collection surface in a card collection area for receiving randomized playing cards, the card collection surface receiving cards positioned so that all cards collected are below the top surface of the device, a card imaging system and an elevator for raising the card collection surface so that at least some randomized cards are elevated above the top surface of the device. The processor is programmed such that cards can be verified without changing an order of cards present in the card receiving area, verified during randomization, and randomized without card verification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: SHFL entertainment, Inc.
    Inventors: Atilla Grauzer, Oliver M. Schubert, James V. Kelly, James B. Stasson, Feraidoon Bourbour, Paul K. Scheper
  • Patent number: 8439743
    Abstract: A gaming machine is disclosed having indicia of a plurality of spinning reels in a first set of reels and indicia of a plurality of spinning reels in a second set of reels. A determination is made as to whether the outcomes of the indicia of the plurality of spinning reels in the first and second sets of reels are winning outcomes. Award-multiplier indicia of a first shared spinning base game award-multiplier reel is positioned between the first and second set of reels. The first set of reels, second set of reels, and the base game award-multiplier reel form a contiguous set of reels having a common axis of rotation. The base game award-multiplier indicia modifies the winning outcome on the first set of reels, modifies the winning outcome on the second set of reels, includes a secondary game trigger symbol, or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.
    Inventors: David B. Schultz, Nathanial A. Hammond, Dominic Tiberio, Michael L. Shackelford
  • Patent number: 8439744
    Abstract: A gaming system for playing a wagering game includes a gaming machine and a controller operatively associated with the gaming machine. The controller is configured to temporarily pause a game-in progress on the gaming machine following the occurrence of a pause event. The controller is also configured to reinstate a game-in progress on the gaming machine following the occurrence of an end-pause event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: Allon G Englman, Michael G. Feeney
  • Publication number: 20130116035
    Abstract: A travel game-board activity kit is provided. The activity kit includes a plurality of dry-erase marking instruments, a plurality of magnetic game pieces, and a plurality of pages having game-board images printed thereon. The plurality of pages includes one or more magnetic sections, and a surface configured to accept markings from the plurality of dry-erase marking instruments and to allow erasure of the markings. The surface of the plurality of pages that accepts dry-erase markings may also include one or more dry-erase sections configured to aid players in tracking game progress, such as on a dry-erase scoreboard. The activity kit may also include a storage container attached to the plurality of pages, which holds the dry-erase marking instruments and/or the magnetic game pieces. In some embodiments, the activity kit includes an electronic component coupled to the plurality of pages for providing desired information, lights, and/or sounds usable for play.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Crayola LLC
    Inventor: Crayola LLC
  • Publication number: 20130116036
    Abstract: The invention includes methods of playing craps. Wagering area(s) are provided. Bets are placed on the areas. A come out roll is performed. Subsequent rolls are performed if the come out roll does not terminate the round, and a payout is awarded to players who placed Point 7 wagers if the come out roll is a point and the subsequent roll is a 7. An embodiment includes a 7 roll followed by a point roll. A payout is made to players who placed a 7 Point 7 wager if the come out roll is a 7. If the come out roll does not terminate the round, a payout is awarded to players who participated in the 7 Point 7 wager if the next come out roll is a point and the subsequent roll is a 7.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Frank Mugnolo, Anthony Mugnolo, Leonardo Mancari, Robert C. DeAngeles
  • Publication number: 20130109455
    Abstract: A security system for a casino table card game has a casino table with i) indicia thereon for the placement of wagers, ii) a data entry system with an associated computer, and iii) sensors that can detect the placement of at least one specific category of wager; a shuffling device with a microprocessor integral to the shuffler for providing information regarding cards or hands; a central table gaming computer that receives information from the shuffler in real time, receives information from the sensors, and receives information from the data entry system, the associated computer, the microprocessor and the central table gaming computer communicating data among each other in real time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: SHFL entertainment, Inc.
    Inventor: SHFL entertainment, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8430743
    Abstract: Wagering systems with a payout percentage that exceeds 100% of wagers are presented. The payouts of these wagering systems may include unrestricted credits and/or restricted credits. Players may cash out unrestricted credits at virtually any point, but may be limited in when and/or how they can cash out or play restricted credits. By providing payouts in the form of unrestricted credits and/or restricted credits, players may find their experience with the wagering systems to be more engaging, enjoyable, and longer-lasting. Moreover, the limitations on the use of restricted credits may allow the casino operator to maintain a reasonable profit margin despite the increased duration of play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Cork Group Trading Ltd.
    Inventor: Martin Paul Moshal
  • Patent number: 8430737
    Abstract: A gaming system and method providing a multi-dimensional symbol wagering game is provided. A player selects a payline, places a wager on the selected payline, and selects a plurality of a plurality of different symbols in a selection order. Symbols are generated and displayed at each of a plurality of symbol display positions. If at least a designated quantity of the symbol display positions associated with the selected payline displays any one of the selected symbols, the gaming system determines a display order of the generated and displayed symbols associated with the selected payline, and determines any awards associated with the selected payline based on a quantity of the symbol display positions associated with the selected payline that display the player selected symbols and a comparison of the selection order with the display order. Any awards are provided to the player. Cascading and rotating symbol features are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventor: Brian F. Saunders
  • Publication number: 20130102379
    Abstract: The present invention is an interactive simulation of animate creatures. This program is a computerized method of simulating reproductive virtual pets that display complex patterns of genetic variation, but which will not consume excessive amounts of system resources. This program is comprised of computerized simulations, manufacturers, compositions of matter and processes including reproducing objects, such as pets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventors: Candace Sargent, Ronald Holt
  • Patent number: 8419525
    Abstract: A gaming device provides a free spins game wherein a plurality of modifiers are each associated with one of a plurality of paylines. During the free spins game, each modifier modifies awards won on the particular payline with which it is associated. In one embodiment, the payline multipliers increase in each of the free spins depending on whether a given payline scores a win or not in the free spin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Scott A. Caputo, Mark C. Nicely, Ryan M. Griffin
  • Patent number: 8419542
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel bonusing system implemented on gaming machines and associated network devices on a network. According to some implementations, a central system qualifies or eliminates sites and/or types of gaming devices for participation based on criteria such as contribution level, games available, date range, location, device manufacturer, denominations available, etc. In some implementations, the qualification or elimination process is performed at a site (e.g., by a site controller) according to criteria obtained from the central system. The methods of the present invention may be de-coupled from player tracking methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Ali Saffari, Chris Reddicks, Mark Bansemer, Anisur Chowdhury, Bryan Wolf
  • Patent number: 8419535
    Abstract: Various card devices and methods involving card devices are described. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: CFPH, LLC
    Inventors: Mark A. Miller, Dean P. Alderucci, Thomas D. Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 8419524
    Abstract: A gaming device which includes a variety of methods to allow the player to select patterns of wildcard symbols, from a plurality of wildcard symbol patterns, and use those patterns during subsequent games. One embodiment allows the player to select a pattern of wildcard symbols and use the selected pattern during a free spin bonus game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Anthony M. Singer, Daniel M. Marks, Howard M. Marks
  • Patent number: 8414392
    Abstract: A method for preventing repeating identification of card symbols. The method includes obtaining an environmental image of an identification zone as a reference sample before the game starts; a dealer dealing a poker card into the identification zone with the card image identified and continuously obtaining the current image of the identification zone; after the poker card is moved to a card display zone, comparing the current image with the reference sample. If the difference between the current image and the reference sample is smaller than an error allowance value, judging the poker card is fully removed from the identification zone, and proceeding dealing and identification process of next round. If the difference between the current image and the reference sample is greater than an error allowance value, judging the poker card is not fully removed from the identification zone, then the dealer can perform manual process as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Tien-Shu Hsu
  • Publication number: 20130084947
    Abstract: A gaming system, device, and method providing player selectable card dealing attributes. The system enables a player to play a dealer-based game and includes a plurality of different card dealing attributes. In one embodiment, the system includes a plurality of predetermined dealers each associated with one or more of the card dealing attributes. The system enables the player to select one of the dealers for use in a play of the dealer-based game. During the play of the dealer-based game, the selected dealer deals the dealer-based game according to that dealer's card dealing attributes. In another embodiment, the system enables the player to create a custom dealer for use in a play of the dealer-based game by selecting one or more of the card dealing attributes. During that of the dealer-based game, the created custom dealer deals the dealer-based game according to that created custom dealer's card dealing attributes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventor: Mark C. Nicely
  • Patent number: 8409011
    Abstract: The present invention is a system and method of simulated combat which can be incorporated in an online multiplayer game. The game, which can be played using multiple human players competing against each other or playing against a computer, begins with a randomly chosen player going first. The randomly chosen player makes one of four moves: Slash, Feint, Adjust, or Thrust. If the player chooses to Slash, Feint, or Adjust, the turn ends and the opposing player has the same four options. If the player chooses to Thrust, the opponent is then given two different options instead: Riposte or Dodge. Once the opponent chooses Riposte or Dodge, he is then allowed to move again. Players have two statuses that change during the game: Energy (which is preferably visible to other players) and Balance (which is preferably hidden from other players).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: David Shackleton
  • Patent number: 8408993
    Abstract: A method of gaming is disclosed wherein progressive award values may be increased in response to certain pre-established game outcomes, wager amounts or random events. The increased progressive award values may be based on a primary game or secondary game outcome. Another innovation is the resetting of progressive awards upon completion of a bonus event whether or not award actually won in said bonus event. Player tracking systems permit progressive award values to be linked to a particular player such that the progressive award values remain personal to the player. Re-setting increased progressive award values is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Ernie M. Lafky, Mark C. Nicely
  • Publication number: 20130079085
    Abstract: Methods for providing gaming advice are provided. For example, regarding a blackjack game, one or more first player cards are identified for a first player and one or more second player cards are identified for a second player. The first and second player cards are displayed to the first player. A probability associated with a first one of the plurality of playing options is determined based at least on a set of predetermined statistical blackjack data, the one or more first player cards, and the one or more second player cards. It is then determined, based at least on the determined probability associated with the first playing option, whether to display a first indication corresponding with first advice regarding the first playing option, a second indication corresponding with second advice regarding the first playing option, or a third indication corresponding with third advice regarding the first playing option.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: Cantor Index, LLC
    Inventors: Lee M. Amaitis, Joseph M. Asher, James C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8403746
    Abstract: An apparatus, method, and computer readable storage for automatically deciding slot machine configuration changes. Slot machine usage is electronically monitored and ideal settings are determined from the usage. Slot machines can then be updated electronically according to the ideal settings, either automatically or upon operator approval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventors: Stacy Friedman, Jon Muskin
  • Patent number: 8393953
    Abstract: Before the start of a free game, a slot machine displays a selection screen on a variable display portion and accepts a selection made by the player with respect to the first choice image and the second choice image. The first special reel band or the second special reel band including a larger number of condor symbols than the normal reel band is associated by lottery to the first choice image and the second choice image. The main CPU changes the normal reel band associated to each reel display portion to a special reel band based on the selection made by the player. Then, the main CPU executes a free game using the special reel band that was changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Universal Entertainment Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Nishimura, Yoichi Kato, Hiroki Saito
  • Patent number: 8393951
    Abstract: According to a gaming system 300, when BET information has been received from a gaming machine 1, it is determined either no offer of a special payout to the gaming machine 1 of a transmission source of the BET information, or a size of the special payout to be offered to the gaming machine of the transmission source of the BET information is determined, in the external control device 200. When the size of the special payout has been determined, a numeric symbol is displayed to each of display regions from a first display region 500a to a fifth display region 500e in a lower image display panel 141. A sum of numeric values corresponding to a predetermined number of these numeric symbols is a total point value corresponding to the size of the determined special payout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Aruze Gaming America, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazumasa Yoshizawa
  • Publication number: 20130059644
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to facilitate a player re-entering a card game, even though they may have “folded” their hand on a previous turn in the card game. Conventionally, in traditional forms of community card poker games, once a player has folded their hand they are unable to take part in the game currently being played. Rather than folding their hand, a player can “hold” their hand with the possibility of returning to the game. By enabling a buy-back-in feature a player can re-enter the game to continue betting, etc. Further the sequence of game play can be altered compared with the conventional play. The card game can be played in a physical environment as well as a digital environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth Ward
  • Patent number: 8388436
    Abstract: A gaming device having multiple interacting independently operated symbol generators, such as wheels. In one embodiment, each wheel includes a plurality of sections that are associated with a plurality of different outcomes which are displayed to a player. One or more of the wheels are activated, either sequentially or simultaneously and the results of the wheel activations influence one or more subsequent wheel activations. Upon a terminating event, an outcome based on the results from one or more spins of one or more of the wheels is provided to the player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Paulina Rodgers, Bayard S. Webb, Hans Elias, Zeke Brill
  • Publication number: 20130053127
    Abstract: A gaming system and method for use in one or more casino establishments for offering a secondary game that is initiated separately from a base game and that requires a separate contribution for a player to be eligible to participate in the secondary game. The gaming machine and method are offered on electronic gaming machines such as slot machines and video poker machines, but may also be deployed in other forms such as on a general purpose computing device connected to a network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: DEFOREST FOX, LLP
    Inventor: Kent Young
  • Publication number: 20130053119
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to a multi-chance casino-based game that can include a roulette-style wheel, a deck of cards, and dice with a corresponding wager board. The multi-chance casino game can provide a player with multiple chances to win on an original wager and can provide an opportunity for wagers to be safe so that if the player does not win, the player will not lose his original wager.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Ron Sharoni
  • Publication number: 20130053120
    Abstract: Exemplary systems and methods allow a patron to play games from an off-site location via an online network. For example, a server may receive, from a client terminal, a purchase request for a plurality of wagers from a patron before a game play has begun. The server may determine the results of the plurality of wagers and store the results in a database before the game play has begun. Then, the server may adjust an account of the player based on the results before the game play has begun, and send the results to the client terminal before the game play has begun, in response to a request to reveal the results. Additionally, exemplary systems and methods allow a patron to play games using variable pay tables based on denomination amounts, number of wagers, amounts of previous wagers. Such systems and methods may, for example, establish a plurality of denomination levels and corresponding pay tables such that odds of winning increase as the denomination value increases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: James R. Lavoie, Robert C. Angell
  • Patent number: 8382579
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a card stack reader, a card thereof, a card case, a method for manufacturing the card, a game machine using the same, and a computer-readable storage medium on which a game program is recorded. The card stack reader comprises an imaging unit which reads an image from a peripheral side portion of a stack of cards, each card having a read code along a peripheral side edge thereof, the read code identifying the card, and a code recognizing unit which recognizes the read code of each card from the image read by the imaging unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Sega Corporation
    Inventors: Toshikazu Yoshida, Hidenori Shiba, Toshiyuki Kaji, Takao Yamauchi, Fumihiro Kato, Akira Nishino, Toru Ohara, Takaharu Terada
  • Patent number: 8376827
    Abstract: A roulette wheel generates a first random number every game determined by the pocket into which a roulette ball falls. A second random number is generated every game from the motion of the ball, the wheel, or other factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Cammegh Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Cammegh, Richard Cammegh
  • Publication number: 20130040728
    Abstract: Gaming machines utilize the output of random number generators (RNGs) in the presentation of games, wherein one or more of the RNGs is each assigned to a single player. Each uniquely assigned RNG is used to determine the outcome of the games played only by the assigned player, such as games presented by casino gaming machines or via remote or mobile devices. An RNG may also be stopped or paused and then restarted, whereby a sequence of random data remains continuous or contiguous relative to a number of games played, such as by the single player to which the RNG is assigned. Multiple players may also time-share a gaming machine in a manner whereby the gaming machine acts as a unique device to each player.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Elia Rocco Tarantino
  • Publication number: 20130035153
    Abstract: A gaming system and method for use in one or more casino establishments for offering a secondary game initiated after a loss. The gaming machine and method are offered on electronic gaming machines such as slot machines and video poker machines, but may also be deployed in other forms such as on a general purpose computing device in stand-alone form or connected to a network such as the internet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: DEFOREST FOX, LLP
    Inventor: Kent Young
  • Publication number: 20130035148
    Abstract: A system and method for enabling play of a casino table card game. Multiple randomized sets of playing cards of known composition are formed and delivered, and are set by following automatically generated house way instructions. An automatic card shuffler is configured to deliver randomized sets of physical cards, the shuffler equipped with a playing card reading system that reads at least one of a rank and suit of markings on each of the playing cards. A processor that receives the read card information from the playing card reading system and determines a composition of each individual set of playing cards dispensed. At least one display is in communication with a processor programmed with house way rules for displaying instructions on how to set hands from a distributed set of cards a house way. Processors of the present invention may also cause a display of a house commission amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: SHUFFLE MASTER, INC.
    Inventor: Roger M. Snow
  • Publication number: 20130035144
    Abstract: An amusement device system including a first amusement device, a second amusement device and an internet-based central server. The first amusement device has a first memory, a first display and a first controller. The first controller is operatively coupled to the first memory, a first input device and the first display. The first memory stores an electronic game having a plurality of game content. The first controller controls the first display based at least in part on inputs from the first input device. The first controller is configured to show a first game content of the plurality of game content to an authenticated user on the first display. The second amusement device has a second memory, a second display and a second controller. The second controller is operatively coupled to the second memory, a second input device and the second display. The second memory stores the electronic game having the plurality of game content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: AMI ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK, INC.
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. KARN
  • Patent number: 8366539
    Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a method for enhancing the outcome of a reel spinning game having one or more shared award-modifier reels. An embodiment of the method includes providing a game including a first set of reels, a second set of reels, and a shared base award-multiplier reel positioned adjacent to a first and second set of reels, wherein the first set of reels, second set of reels, and the shared base award-multiplier reel form a contiguous set of reels having a common axis of rotation, and the shared base award-multiplier reel enhances any winning outcomes in the first and/or second set of reels. Additionally, an embodiment of the method includes determining whether the game outcome of one set of reels is a winning outcome and enhancing the winning outcome of at least one set of reels when an award-multiplier symbol is present on the shared base award-multiplier reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.
    Inventors: David B. Schultz, Nathanial A. Hammond, Dominic Tiberio, Michael Shackelford
  • Patent number: 8366529
    Abstract: A media game that employs a method for randomly shuffling through a large set of video and/or audio clips stored on readable media using a media player, such as a DVD player, is disclosed. In addition to the readable media, the game also includes a game board, moveable play pieces, trivia question cards, random name cards, a numbered die, and a challenge die. The game board can be converted from long play to short play by lifting the endmost sections of the game board and placing them next to each other on top of intermediate sections of the game board. A path circumnavigates the game board and appears to be continuous in both long and short play modes. The begin and end regions reside at least partially on the endmost sections and appear as unbroken shapes when configured for both long and short play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Screenlife, LLC
    Inventors: Craig E. Kinzer, David Long, William Kuper, Trevor Steinthal, Mathew J. Griesse, John Hendricks, William J. Patterson, Michael J. Ausich
  • Publication number: 20130029754
    Abstract: Each player receives a play deck of cards from 1 to a first number and a guess deck of cards from 1 to the first number times the number of players. Each player selects a guess card representing each player's guess of the hand total. Play proceeds with each player revealing a play card and adding numerical values of revealed play cards to obtain a hand total when all have revealed a play card. The player whose guess card equals the hand total wins the hand. Alternatively, a player whose guess card is closest to without exceeding the hand total can win.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Robert C. Sotile
  • Patent number: 8360859
    Abstract: A gaming device such as a slot machine is provided having a payout proportional to a wager value. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the gaming machine provides a player with the ability to flexibly and automatically increase and decrease wagers, thereby allowing the player to press his bets when he feels lucky, and to decrease his bets when he feels unlucky. Different proportional payout tables are provided for different levels of wagers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch
  • Patent number: 8360849
    Abstract: A gaming machine (10) has a display (14) and a game controller arranged to control images displayed on the display (14). The game controller is arranged to play a game (16) wherein at least one random event is caused to be displayed on the display (14). If a predefined winning event occurs, the machine (10) awards a prize. When a special symbol is carried by a symbol-carrying element into a display position on the display (14), the special symbol does at least one of altering the prize awarded for a winning result and altering a defined set of winning combinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Nicholas Luke Bennett, Natalie Bryant
  • Patent number: 8360848
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a secondary game of a wagering gaming system, and particularly the increase of an award in the secondary game by the value of different multipliers associated with different amounts wagered in a primary game. A secondary game provides a total award to a player based on the multiplier associated with the wagered amount in the primary game by applying the multiplier to the amount of the award earned by the player in the secondary game. A particular wagerable amount may be associated with a multiplier that is predetermined, or randomly selected from a group of predefined multipliers, or selected from a group based on a probability. The range of possible combinations of wagerable amounts and multipliers are displayed to the player in the base game to provide an incentive to maximize the wager.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: David M. Oles, Aaron T. Jones
  • Patent number: 8360873
    Abstract: A method of combining games based on levels of interactivity of the games is disclosed. It is identified that a player is idle with respect to a primary game, the primary game having a first level of interactivity. A secondary game having a second level of interactivity is selected based on the second level of interactivity being compatible with the first level of interactivity. The player is provided with an option to participate in the secondary game white the player is idle with respect to the primary game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Zynga Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Wickett, Shane Ishmael Sareli, Michael Kane, Justin Potter Driemeyer, Lamberto Alvaro
  • Patent number: 8360854
    Abstract: A method of the present invention includes requiring a player to purchase a predetermined amount of playing time for a predetermined amount of money; inputting an initial average Return-To-Player (RTP) percentage of the regulated game; initiating the regulated game, and during the purchased predetermined amount of playing time: providing a plurality of reward generating assets and enabling the player to interact therewith, a successful interaction with a reward generating asset generating a reward for the player, and providing a plurality of time penalty inducing assets, interaction with one of which imposes a predetermined time penalty during which the player is prevented from interacting with any of the plurality of reward generating assets whereby, after interaction with one of the plurality of penalty inducing assets, the initial average RTP percentage is reduced by an amount proportional to a length of the predetermined time penalty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Alexander Popovich, Cameron Anthony Filipour, Adam Singer, Thierry Brunet de Courssou
  • Publication number: 20130023335
    Abstract: A casino game utilizes at least one deck of playing cards, the game comprising: each player placing at least one wager to participate in the casino game; dealing a first number of cards to a dealer, the first number of cards being greater than the number of cards to be used in determination of a poker rank hand for the dealer; dealing a second number of cards to each player, the second number of cards being greater than the number of cards to be used in determination of a poker rank hand for each player; the dealer discarding at least one card to form a resulting single dealer hand; each player discarding at least one card to form a resulting player's hand for each player, wherein the number of cards in resulting player's hands and the resulting dealer's hand are equal; and resolving each player hand against the dealer's hand according to predetermined game rules. The initial player's wagers must be at least matched with a Game Bet (or play bet) to remain in the game after players have received their cards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Roger M. Snow
  • Patent number: 8357041
    Abstract: A gaming system and method providing a multi-dimensional symbol wagering game is provided. A player selects a payline, places a wager on the selected payline, and selects a plurality of a plurality of different symbols in a selection order. Symbols are generated and displayed at each of a plurality of symbol display positions. If at least a designated quantity of the symbol display positions associated with the selected payline displays any one of the selected symbols, the gaming system determines a display order of the generated and displayed symbols associated with the selected payline, and determines any awards associated with the selected payline based on a quantity of the symbol display positions associated with the selected payline that display the player selected symbols and a comparison of the selection order with the display order. Any awards are provided to the player. Cascading and rotating symbol features are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventor: Brian F. Saunders
  • Patent number: 8353766
    Abstract: During a slot machine game, game effects are also displayed on a liquid crystal panel 39d provided in a reel display window unit 39, and thus the liquid crystal panel 39d serves as a new machine component for performing game effects. Therefore, new effects for the game can be performed on the liquid crystal panel 39d, which facilitates maintaining the novelty of game effects. Furthermore, the diffusion sheet 39f and the light guiding plate 39g are formed with openings 5a, 6a and 7a and openings 5b, 6b and 7b respectively for allowing the symbols variably displayed on the reels to be observed. As a result, there are decreased obstacles, interposed, in such a way as to prevent the light from passing through, between the transparent acryl plate 39a and the reels 2-4 on which the light is variably displayed. Therefore, the visibility of the symbols variably displayed on the reels 2-4 is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Universal Entertainment Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuo Okada
  • Publication number: 20130010952
    Abstract: A method of providing a portable true random number generator based on the microstructure and noise found in digital images is claimed and disclosed. Using the lowest significant bits of digitized images, strings of binary data are extracted. These raw strings are shown to pass the DIEHARD, NIST, and ENT tests for randomness for a robust selection of natural images. This information is available to, and may be processed by off-the-shelf technology including smartphones or other embedded devices without undue constraints on physical and environmental parameters. The method represents a significantly improved portable means of random number generation for all security, cryptographic, entertainment and PSI applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventors: Joseph Gerard Muise, Marie Lise Lavoie
  • Patent number: 8348744
    Abstract: The invention consists in a method of playing a participation game involving comparison of players' objects (a.k.a. game cards) with a common object (a.k.a. draw result) remaining the same until the end of the game. The method involves players placing requests. Upon reception of requests, the system provides the requesting player with a game card and the active draw result. The system evaluates if a comparison between the game card and draw result fulfills an end-of-game criterion. When such criterion is fulfilled, the game card is declared a winning card and the system prevents the distribution of new cards. Otherwise, the system continues providing cards until the criterion is fulfilled. Accordingly, a suitable system is also described for the play of said participation game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Labtronix Concept inc.
    Inventors: GĂ©rald Duhamel, Marie-Claude Gagnon, Martin Roy
  • Patent number: 8348736
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a gaming system including a game controller arranged to generate a skill outcome in response to an input from a player and that is at least partially dependent on a skill of the player. The game controller is arranged to generate an artificial outcome that is controlled by the game controller. The gaming system also includes a game outcome controller arranged to generate a game outcome based on a criterion such that, if the criterion is met, the game outcome is at least partially determined by one of the skill outcome and the artificial outcome and, if the criterion is not met, the game outcome is at least partially determined by the other one of the skill outcome and the artificial outcome. A reward allocator is arranged to allocate a reward that is at least partially dependent on the game outcome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Limited
    Inventor: Boris Mitelman
  • Publication number: 20130005415
    Abstract: An interactive computer system and method for simulating a user's avatar behavior is provided. In an embodiment, a computer program product includes a simulator configured to simulate a user interactive with a computer program. The simulator includes a learning mode of operation and a simulation mode of operation. During the learning mode, the simulator monitors the user's interaction with the computer program for one or more events, and analyzes one or more current circumstances during the occurrence of one or more events. The simulator records one or more user inputs in response to the occurrence of the one or more events, stores the one or more user inputs in one or more data fields, and associates the one or more data fields with the one or more events and the one or more current circumstances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. THOMAS, Abraham J. Navarro, Gordon K. Read, David M. Zdyrko, JR.