U.S. Pat. No. 11,232,680

DESCRIPTION

Persons of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following description is illustrative and not in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the claimed subject matter will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. The various illustrative embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that this disclosure and the claims may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, those familiar with computing systems shall appreciate that there are many variants possible for the described systems, depending on the nature of the available networks, legal frameworks, which can open or restrict the types of locations in which the system can be operated, advances in server and networking technologies, etc.

The gaming systems and methods presented herein include a mobile wagering and entertainment system that is designed to be used in wagering applications within legal gaming frameworks. More specifically, the gaming systems and methods presented herein support centralized control of wagering that takes place in multiple wagering venues and provides an integrated broadcast capability so that an entertaining complement to the wagering can be presented on television screens in the gaming venues.

A gaming venue includes a charity, a casino and any other such authorized or licensed gaming venue. Additionally, a gaming venue includes a church, hotel, bar, restaurant, convenience store and other such locations that support licensed gaming activity. Note, that the term “gaming” refers to games of chance or games that include a chance component, in which a wager is received, and the awarded prize is dependent on the outcome of the game of chance or of the chance component

As described in further detail herein, the gaming system and method includes a Mobile Wagering Sub-system (MWS) and a Video Presentation Sub-system (VPS). The gaming system is communicatively coupled to a plurality of remote gaming venues, in which each remote gaming venue has at least one mobile client device that supports customer wagering. Additionally, each remote gaming venue may include one or more Point-of-Sale stations that manage player funds. Furthermore, each remote gaming venue may include one or more television monitors that broadcast content complementary to wagering activities. In the illustrative embodiments presented herein, the various elements of the gaming system are communicatively and operatively coupled to one another with a network structure that includes the Internet as the backbone and at least one secure Wi-Fi network within each gaming venue.

Referring toFIG. 1, there is shown an illustrative centralized gaming system. The centralized gaming system100includes a mobile wagering sub-system102and a video presentation sub-system104. The mobile wagering sub-system102and the video presentation sub-system104are communicatively coupled to one another. Additionally, the mobile wagering sub-system102and the video presentation sub-system104are communicatively coupled to a Wide Area Network106, e.g. Internet, which is communicatively coupled to a plurality of gaming venues, namely, gaming illustrative Venue A108a, Venue B108band other such gaming venues as represented by Venue N108c. Each of the plurality of gaming venues108a,108band108cinclude a stationary monitor110a,110band110c, respectively. Each stationary monitor110a,110band110cis communicatively coupled to the video presentation client116a,116band116c, respectively. The video presentation clients116are also communicatively coupled to the video presentation subsystem104. The combination of the stationary monitor110and the video presentation client116may also be referred as a “stationary monitor client,” and as such reference to “stationary monitor client” refers to the combination of the stationary monitor110and the video presentation client116.

Within the system architecture each gaming venue may be associated with a sponsoring organization, e.g. a charity, and an additional business entity, e.g. a distributor. The types of venues, sponsoring organizations and other business entities will vary according jurisdictional statures and regulation.

Additionally, each of the gaming venues108a,108band108cinclude a plurality of authorized mobile devices112a,112band112c, respectively. Further still, each of the gaming venues includes a Point-of-Sale (POS) device114a,114band114c. The illustrative authorized mobile devices112and the POS devices114are client devices configured to communicate with each other and the mobile wagering sub-system102. In operation, the authorized mobile devices112and POS devices114are registered with the mobile wagering sub-system102, which includes a database (not shown) that associates the authorized mobile devices112and POS devices114with a designated gaming venue108. Thus, authorized mobile devices112and POS devices114are not allowed to interact with the centralized gamine system100when the client devices are not located at the designated gaming venue.

The illustrative authorized mobile devices112operate as wireless client devices that are communicatively coupled to the centralized gaming system100. Additionally, the centralized gaming system100may be communicatively coupled to authorized non-mobile clients. Furthermore, other client devices such as non-mobile clients may be disposed in the gaming venues and these non-mobile clients may be communicatively coupled to the centralized gaming system100. These authorized non-mobile client devices include, but are not limited to, wired devices such as gaming machines, slot machines, PCs, stationary monitors, Internet appliances, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and other such non-mobile devices with hardwire connections or wireless connections to the Wide Area Network106. The non-mobile client devices may be configured to participate in the games presented herein including, but not limited to, the tournament games described hereinafter.

Operationally, client devices must comply with the system-centric gaming requirements in which all gaming and accounting activity are controlled by the mobile wagering sub-systems servers102, and have the communications infrastructure, directly or by proxy, to interact with the server in a manner consistent with the operations of the authorized mobile devices112described herein.

The illustrative gaming system100includes a plurality of server applications that are configured to provide high-availability and redundancy, process all inputs and generates outputs. The illustrative gaming system100includes three different types of network communications. Firstly, there are network communications between the internal server components, namely, the mobile wagering sub-system102and the video presentation sub-system104. Secondly, there are network communications between the server components102/104and the remote gaming venues108a,108band108c, as well as the Gambling League Website server120. Thirdly, there are network communications within the gaming venues108a,108band108c.

With respect to network communications between the internal server components, the illustrative server components operate as a single network, in which the servers can communicate with one another using service requests. By way of example and not of limitation, the illustrative internal server components have two internet protocol addresses, namely, a Private IP used to maintain the server network and ensuring secure server-to-server communication, and a Public IP that is bound to the Internet and that provides access to server services through high security communications such as HTTPS. The internal server components use their private IPs for server-to-server communication so that these services are not exposed to the Internet, the game application running on the authorized mobile devices and the POS devices.

By way of example and not of limitation, each server is configured with an SSL certificate which supports HTTPS calls. The illustrative server is configured to forward some requests it receives through HTTPS to a local port, and the requests that are allowed to pass are only those available to authorized “Game” and “POS” devices. This illustrative configuration ensures that only very specific requests are allowed from the public IP.

By way of example and not of limitation the servers are implemented using the Linux operating system using Restful programming techniques using Java as the programming language with Jersey RS support. Database structures are contained in a MySQL database.

Communication between the server components, namely, the mobile wagering sub-system102and the video presentation sub-system104, and the remote client devices is performed over a wide-area network106. As described above, these network communications are performed using secure SSL communications over the Internet.

The authorized mobile devices112a,112band12care also referred to as a “player interface unit.” An illustrative authorized mobile device is presented inFIG. 2. Operationally, each authorized mobile device112in an illustrative embodiment is associated with a player account.

By way of example and not of limitation, the player account is described as a short-term, anonymous entity tied to the client device being used by the player, and which expires when the fund balance drops to zero. However, it is possible in other embodiments to have player accounts which may exist for longer time periods and be tied to a player.

Additionally, it should be noted that while the illustrative embodiments presented herein generally describe financial transactions such as adding funds or cashing out at the POS device114, in different regulatory environments or with different technology, such player accounts can have financial transactions originating at the player device or any other client device that may be configured to support POS transaction. Also, the financial transactions may be supported at a system level with a server component or server module that provides a web portal functions for financial transactions. Thus, the financial transactions may be performed by the client device, a server component, a server module, or any combination thereof. Depending on regulatory issues and available technology, financial transactions may be based on cash, credit cards, debit cards, digital currency or other mediums of finance.

Referring now toFIG. 2, there is shown an illustrative authorized mobile device or point-of-sale device. The illustrative authorized mobile device200may be one the plurality of authorized mobile devices112that are associated with each venue. The illustrative authorized mobile device200includes a central computing element202with a processor204and memory storage206. One or more games may be pre-installed on the authorized mobile device200before the authorized mobile devices are deployed in a gaming venue or other such production environment. Alternatively, the illustrate game title files may be stored in a remote server, e.g. an “App” store, and the authorized mobile device200may configured to download the game title file, run the game title file and enable the user to interact with the corresponding game title.

The authorized mobile device200also includes a color display with a touch-screen208and a network interface component210, which provides network access to a local area network, a wide area network or any combination thereof. By way of example and not of limitation the network interface component supports a wireless local area network such as a Wi-Fi network, which is based on IEEE 802.11 standards. Additionally, the authorized mobile device200may communicate with the wide area network106via the illustrative Wi-Fi network. The communication between the authorized mobile device200and the mobile wagering sub-system102may be performed using the illustrative HTTPS protocol or other such secure networking protocol that allows game session inputs, commands and outputs to be communicated securely across the Wide Area Network.

In an illustrative embodiment, the authorized mobile device200may be a tablet computing devices running iOS or Android operating systems. The illustrative authorized mobile device may also include a Funds Access Device module212that may be configured to have a custom locked profile to evade security-bypassing attempts. The Funds Access Devices (FAD)212may also provide alternative methods for starting customer account sessions or adding funds to existing account sessions. By way of example and not of limitation, the Funds Access Device module212may include currency readers and debit/credit card readers such as a magnetic stripe reader, a smart-card reader, an infra-red reader, a Near-Field-Communications reader and other such financial transaction readers.

The authorized mobile device200may also include an audio system component214that enhances the game-playing experience for the players. The audio system component214may also include a standard audio jack so that player can use wired or wireless headphones216to improve the game audio environment without disturbing others.

In one illustrative embodiment, the authorized mobile device200may include a printer218and a code reader220. By way of example and not of limitation, the printer218generates vouchers. The illustrative code reader220may be embodied as a bar-code reader that is configured to read vouchers generated by the printer.

By way of example and not of limitation, the authorized mobile device200may be configured to include a “HELP” button in the game client that also dispatches a signal to the POS to notify the operator that the player is requesting assistance. The authorized mobile device200may also be configured to include a text-to-speech functionality to aid a visually impaired player. Additionally, the authorized mobile device200may include a gaming application that downloads files, decompresses the downloaded files if they have been compressed, and caches all assets inside the authorized mobile device200. The authorized mobile device200supports dynamic updates without the need to update the game client itself.

Referring now toFIG. 1andFIG. 2, the mobile wagering sub-system102is communicatively coupled to a plurality of authorized mobile device112such as illustrative player interface unit200presented inFIG. 2. In one illustrative embodiment, the mobile wagering sub-system102receives a wager input for a game session from the illustrative player interface unit200. In another illustrative embodiment, the mobile wagering sub-system102receives the wager input for a game session from a plurality of authorized mobile devices112, which may be disposed at one or more venues as presented inFIG. 1.

The illustrative authorized mobile device200presents a user interface on touch screen208that shows a plurality of game content associated with different types of game sessions. In the illustrative embodiment, the authorized mobile device200may also accept player inputs that are associated with a game session. The game session may perform various operations as described in further detail below.

In the illustrative embodiment, the video presentation sub-system104is communicatively coupled to the mobile wagering sub-system102, the video presentation client116, and the stationary monitors110disposed in the different gaming revenues. The video presentation sub-system104generates entertainment output associated with ongoing activity in the mobile gaming system.

One or more of the stationary monitors110then receives the entertainment output generated by the video presentation sub-system. The stationary monitors110a,110band110cthen proceed to display the entertainment output generated by the video presentation sub-system104.

In the illustrative embodiment, a first plurality of authorized devices112aassociated with a first gaming venue108aincludes a first stationary monitor110aand first video presentation client116a. Additionally, a second plurality of authorized mobile devices112bassociated with a second gaming venue108bincludes a second stationary monitor110band second video presentation client116b. The first stationary monitor110aand the second stationary monitor110are both communicatively coupled to video presentation sub-system104. The video presentation sub-system104may have stored thereon an entertainment output, such as a video, that is associated with wagering activity. The video presentation sub-system104communicates the output, e.g. video, to the first stationary monitor110aand the second stationary monitor110bvia the video presentation client116aand116b, respectively.

By way of example and not of limitation, for an illustrative bingo tournament game that includes a bingo game session, the various stationary monitors110a,110band110cmay present a bingo video related to the bingo tournament game. Thus, a plurality of different authorized mobile device112from different gaming venues108can participate in the bingo tournament game and share a similar video experience.

Referring toFIG. 3, there is shown further detail for the mobile wagering sub-system102communicatively coupled to different venues. In an illustrative embodiment, the mobile wagering system functionality is distributed on multiple servers, including those that provide database314functionality. The illustrative mobile wagering sub-system102includes a centralized resource/manufacturer server302that performs as a coordinating entity for system operation and maintains authority over game operations controlled by the centralized gaming system100. The mobile wagering sub-system102also includes a distributor server304that is communicatively coupled to the centralized resource server302.

In the illustrative embodiment presented inFIG. 3, a first distributor server304aand second distributor server304bare also communicatively to the centralized resource server302. Each of the illustrative distributor servers is configured to manage and control the game operations and cashier operations performed at a set of gaming venues that are associated with a distributor who is responsible for sales and support of a multiplicity of venues.

For example, a first set of gaming venues306and308are configured to communicate with first distributor server304a, which manages and controls the game operations at gaming venues306and308. Additionally, for a second set of gaming venues310and312are configured to communicate with the illustrative second distributor server304bmanages and controls the game operations at gaming venues310and312. Thus, multiple gaming venues may require additional distributor servers.

A variety of tasks may be performed by the centralized resource server302. For example, one of the tasks performed by the centralized resource server302includes providing a central routing operation for each of the authorized mobile devices112so that each authorized mobile device112is routed to the proper distributor server304aor340bupon activation each authorized mobile device. By way of example and not of limitation, the first request generated by an authorized mobile device200may direct the authorized mobile device200to an illustrative distributor of the authorized mobile device200.

Additionally, the centralized resource server302may be configured to provide a central routing operation for cashier authentication. Thus, a cashier device may be authenticated by the appropriate distributor server304, which may then forward an authentication to an illustrative mobile device distributor.

The centralized resource server302may also be configured to operate as a central authority for generation of finite decks of predetermined electronic pull-tab results.

Furthermore, the centralized resource server302may be configured to manage and control financial information. The centralized resource server302may include a centralized database314that stores data generated by the cashiers, authorized mobile devices, and the various gaming venues. The centralized database314provides a central repository for accounting data, game play data, system configuration data, and other such data types.

The illustrative distributor servers304are communicatively coupled to the centralized resource server302. Each of the distributor servers304may be configured to manage finances for the player accounts that are associated with the authorized mobile devices. Additionally, the illustrative distributor servers304may be responsible for generating logs and reports required for the POS devices. Furthermore, the illustrative distributor servers304may be configured to manage game play operations, wagers and prizes. Further still, the illustrative distributor servers304may manage cashier operations including customer sales and redemptions. Further yet, the distributor servers304may be configured to maintain the financial status for the authorized mobile devices, including the actual credit balance on each player device.

In an alternative embodiment, the operations performed by the centralized resource server302and the distributor server304may be performed by a centralized resource software module (not shown) and a distributor software module (not shown) that may be associated with a client-server architecture, a distributed architecture, a peer-to-peer architecture, a hierarchical architecture, a “cloud” architecture or any combination thereof.

The mobile wagering sub-system102may also include an illustrative web portal server316. The web portal server316provides a web interface to access system accounting and operational data, as well as to maintain and configure the system. The web portal server316is configured to support creating, editing and removing entities like distributors, operators, venues, cashiers, devices, game parameters and others as required. All actions performed on the portal are logged for auditing purposes. This action log can be access on the portal itself if the user has the necessary system privilege.

By way of example and not of limitation, the web portal server may be accessed from personal computers or tablet devices318over the internet. Authorized users having “administrator” privileges may access system reports and controls based upon their operational needs and organizational affiliation. The web portal server316supports a variety of different authorized users having different roles with different levels of access to the mobile wagering sub-system102. For example, the web portal server may be configured to support the following roles: regulator, manufacturer, distributor with access to multiple operators, operator with access to multiple venues, a particular venue, a particular cashier and other such preconfigured roles.

An illustrative router320is disposed within the mobile wagering sub-system102. The router320is communicatively coupled to a wide area network322, e.g. Internet, which is communicatively coupled to the various venues and authorized users. Additionally, the illustrative router320is communicatively coupled to the portal server316, the video presentation sub-system104, each distributor server304and the centralized resource server302. The router320forwards data packets to the appropriate server, network, internet appliance, sub-system and other such destination. Additionally, the router320may include a firewall that supports secure communications with the mobile wagering sub-system.

Referring now toFIG. 4, there is shown an illustrative point-of-sale (POS) device communicatively coupled to authorized mobile devices in a gaming venue. The illustrative POS device402is communicatively coupled to one or more authorized mobile devices404and406in gaming venue408. By way of example and not of limitation, the illustrative POS device402is communicatively coupled to authorized mobile devices with a native Socket implementation inside a Local Area Network. An exploded view of an illustrative user interface410corresponding to POS device402is also shown.

The point-of-sale device402is configured to manage all cash operations such as cash-in operations and cash-out operations. The cash-in and cash-out operations may be requested by the authorized mobile device404, the authorized mobile device406, the POS402or any combination thereof.

The illustrative point-of-sale (POS) device402and authorized mobile devices404and406may be embodied as a mobile device as described above inFIG. 2. The illustrative POS device402is a client device configured to receive and operate an illustrative proprietary POS Application. The authorized mobile devices404and406are client devices configured to receive and operate a proprietary Game Application. The illustrative POS device402and authorized mobile devices404and406are communicatively coupled with the mobile wagering sub-system102. In the illustrative embodiment, the client devices communicate with the mobile wagering sub-system102for each transaction. More generally, all wagering and accounting information is monitored and stored in the centralized gaming system100and the client devices always reflect the information received from the centralized gaming system100. For reasons of security and consistency all game play decisions and financial data is hosted in the centralized gaming system and only visually reflected in the client devices.

As shown inFIG. 4, the illustrative wide area network106, e.g. Internet, (shown inFIG. 1) is communicatively coupled to the illustrative gaming venue408. In the illustrative embodiment, the illustrative wide area network terminates at Router A410. The illustrative Router A410may be a pre-existing router located at the venue408and usable for multiple purposes, depending on the needs of the venue. For example, Router A410may be a component of a cable TV system. In the illustrative embodiment, a second Router B412is also communicatively coupled to router A410. Illustrative Router B412is configured to support the requirements for communications with the mobile wagering sub-stem102and video presentation sub-system104.

In the illustrative embodiment, router B412establishes two private Wi-Fi SSIDs to be used only at a specific site. Each Wi-Fi SSID includes a security key that is unique to that site and is not available to site personnel. One SSID may be used for the exclusive use of the mobile wagering system102and a second SSID may be provided for exclusive use of the video presentation system104. Router B is also communicatively coupled to video presentation client414, which is communicatively coupled to the monitor416.

The illustrative POS402tablet is an electronic device that may be operated cashier in a venue. The POS device402provides control over financial activity within the venue. The illustrative POS Application program runs on a tablet device and supports the following illustrative operations, namely, a cash-in operation (sales), a cash-out operation (redemption) and a reporting operation.

In the illustrative embodiment, the cashier logs into the POS application program by providing a cashier user name and password. During the set-up process, the cashier name is associated with a cashier role that is associated only with a particular venue. After a successful login, the POS client retrieves relevant system information from an illustrative distributor server302, which presents the user interface410.

The illustrative user interface410associated with POS client402presents colored icons, in which each icon represents one of the authorized mobile devices (such as authorized mobile devices404and406) in the venue408. Note that the illustrative authorized mobile devices406and408may also be referred to as “a registered gaming client.” By way of example, each icon418has a short identifier representing the local identification of the device, which is unique within that venue. For example, a grey icon may identify that the authorized mobile device has been registered with the mobile wagering sub-system; however, the authorized mobile device is not currently available for game play. Another illustrative icon may be a yellow icon, which represents that the authorized mobile device is present and available. A green icon may represent that the authorized mobile device has credit and is involved in a game session. A red icon may represent that a player input has been received that relates to a HELP button input command, a cash input command or a cash output command.

In operation, an illustrative cashier that is interactive with the user interface410may select an icon associated with a particular authorized mobile device. After selecting the appropriate authorized mobile device, the cashier may interact with another user interface that enables the cashier to add cash to the authorized mobile device, to enable a player cash-out from the authorized mobile device, to display a log of recent play and transactional activity, which may be retrieved from the illustrative centralized resource server, the distributor server or any combination thereof.

A variety of other user interfaces may also be presented in the point-of-sale device. For example, a user interface may be presented that allows the illustrative cashier to access reports and to log-out from the POS device. For example, a reports screen may be presented that summarizes the business activity of the current day, the previous day or a historical period. The reports may include data regarding cash-in sales (in dollars), awarded prizes (in US Dollars) and net revenue, which is the difference between the cash-in sales and the awarded prizes. The illustrative reports screen may be refreshed in real time or in pseudo real time.

By way of example and not of limitation, a player may interact with the centralized gaming system100by purchasing play credits, e.g. funds, at the POS device402. For example, the illustrative player requests an amount of credit and pays the cashier at POS device402. Subsequently, a POS session is established with the central database314(shown inFIG. 3) when the illustrative distributor server304receives a cash-in message from the POS client device402. The illustrative cash-in message identifies the player account session amount, the identification of the authorized mobile device to which the POS player session amount is linked and the identity of the POS device initiating the transaction. The distributor server304acknowledges that POS transaction and provides update information to the specific game client indicating the amount of available at credit. In addition, a player may elect to add credit to an existing player account balance by purchasing such credit from a cashier, who may use a POS ADD CASH function to record the transaction in the server database and update the available credit total.

Referring toFIG. 5, there is shown an illustrative Video Presentation System (VPS). In the illustrative embodiment, the video presentation system (VPS)104delivers television content to venues communicatively coupled to the centralized gaming system100shown inFIG. 1. The illustrative VPS104is communicatively coupled to a VPS client116, which is also shown inFIG. 6below.

By way of example and not limitation, the VPS104may be associated with linked bingo tournament (LBT) games. This content presented on illustrative monitors110(shown inFIG. 1) complements the game experience on the authorized mobile devices112. Additionally, the content presented on monitors110is configured to involve other patrons at participating venues who are not participating in the games. This may create a social gaming environment that may appeal to a broad spectrum of players.

The illustrative VPS104, shown inFIG. 5, includes a plurality of inputs that the system may incorporate into broadcast content. For example, communications with the MWS102may include a data feed generated by the MWS102, which provides real time data on the status of an illustrative tournament. The illustrative data feed may include player names, player scores, remaining plays for player game sessions, time remaining in the tournament, prize values and other such tournament information.

A broadcast preparation software module502is configured to integrate a plurality of inputs into a broadcast data stream. In the illustrative embodiment, the integration is performed by a suite of commercial products such as Open Broadcaster™, Quicktime™ and proprietary software products. The tasks performed by the broadcast preparation software module502includes formatting an illustrative mobile wagering sub-system data feed504. Note, the mobile wagering sub-system data feed504is generated by the mobile wagering sub-system102. The mobile wagering sub-system data feed504includes information such as the tournament leader information, which can be converted into an easily readable display format.

For example, the mobile wagering sub-system data feed504may be transmitted over the Internet to a Real Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) host506, which may then transmit the data signal from the illustrative RTMP host506using an RTMP protocol over the Internet to the illustrative VPS client116.

The broadcast preparation software module502may also be configured to interface with an illustrative audio mixer508, which accepts a variety of audio feeds. The illustrative audio feeds received by the audio mixer508include host microphones and audio from selected live game play; a wide variety of such devices are commercially available. Additionally, the broadcast preparation software module502is configured to provide live field reporting510from game locations using a tool such as Facetime™. Live field reporting510may add excitement to the broadcast. Furthermore, the broadcast preparation software module502is configured to interface with various video signals that include studio video cameras512and live images captured from illustrative authorized mobile device and replayed as feed514and feed516.

Referring toFIG. 6, there is shown a more detailed view of an illustrative video presentation sub-system (VPS) client116. In the illustrative embodiment, the VPS client116is communicatively coupled to the video presentation sub-system104via an illustrative wide area network, e.g. Internet, and a local wireless connection, e.g. local Wi-Fi. The illustrative RTMP feed602, which is generated by the RTMP host506, is received by the VPS client116. The VPS client is also operationally coupled to the illustrative stationary monitor110.

The RTMP feed602is received at an illustrative gaming venue and the RTMP feed602is routed to the VPS client116. By way of example and not of limitation, the RTMP feed602is communicated using a dedicated and secure Wi-Fi channel. In the illustrative embodiment, the RTMP feed602includes a streaming video data steam, which is converted to a video display signal. For example, the RTMP feed may be converted to an HDMI video signal with an RTMP/HDMI converter appliance604. For example, the RTMP/HDMI appliance604may be implemented with special purpose firmware inside an embedded computing element, such as a Raspberry PI™. The resulting video signal generated by the RTMP/HDMI appliance604is then sent directly to a compatible television or sent to the television using a commercial 2×1 switch607, such as the Fosman 8024™, which may also be coupled to an existing HDTV data source such as receiver606.

The illustrative converted HDMI video signal is then presented the stationary monitor110. This allows for a variety of installation models. Where there is a television dedicated to use with the VPS the output of the special purpose converter604may be left permanently connected to the television110. If the television is used for different purposes at different times the data feed to the television can be switched on or off with the introduction of the 2×1 HDMI switch604, allowing normal use of the television when the VPS data feed is not in use.

The centralized gaming system100described inFIG. 1throughFIG. 6supports a variety of different types of games and game play. For the illustrative mobile wagering sub-system102, a game session is initiated after a wager is received and the game session ends when game play is completed, when a prize is awarded, or according to any other predetermined game mechanic that reflects the game session has ended.

A variety of different game mechanics may be associated with each game session. For example, a tournament game awarding a limited number or prizes may present player rankings for prizes awarded to the ranked players.

The player rankings may then be presented on one or more of the authorized mobile devices112. Additionally, the player rankings may result in the video presentation sub-system104generating a player rankings tournament session output that is presented on the stationary monitors110.

Referring toFIG. 7, there is shown an illustrative centralized gaming method that describes the various steps performed by a player interacting with the gaming system. The illustrative centralized gaming method700is at block702where an illustrative player enters one of the venues and indicates to the cashier or similar venue employee that the player wants to initiate game play with the centralized gaming system100. The method then proceeds to block704where the illustrative cashier collects monetary funds such as cash, e-money, debit card, credit card and other such monetary funds as are appropriate depending on jurisdictional regulatory requirements.

At block706, the illustrative cashier then proceeds to interface with a Point-Of Sale (POS) application on a device such as POS device114. In another embodiment, the player may interface with a kiosk version of the POS device114without the need to interact with a venue employee. In yet another embodiment, the POS application may be running on an authorized mobile device112and the player may interact directly with the POS application.

While interfacing with the POS device or POS application at block706, the illustrative cashier identifies the authorized mobile device112associated with the player. The illustrative cashier then proceeds to enter the amount of credits to add to the authorized mobile devices. This amount of credits is stored in illustrative central database314(shown inFIG. 3).

At block708, the total credits, which correspond to the collected funds, are presented on the authorized mobile device112. The player may then interact with a game application running on the authorized mobile device. The player may also select from a variety of different game applications, which may be presented as a menu of games displayed on the authorized mobile device112screen. In operation, various game screens corresponding to the chosen game are presented to the player.

At block710, the player can select a wager amount for a particular game session. In the illustrative embodiment, the wager amount includes the number of credits the player has selected to be wagered. Depending on jurisdictional requirements wager amounts can be expressed in dollars and cents (or other local currency) or in terms of credits, where each unit of credit has a monetary value. By way of example and not of limitation, the player may then initiate a game session by pressing a PLAY button, which is an illustrative game input received by the authorized mobile device112.

At block712, a game request is sent from the authorized mobile device112to the mobile wagering sub-system102. The mobile wagering sub-system102processes the game request. In the illustrative embodiment, the mobile wagering sub-system102determines a prize result and a graphic representation (or representations) of the prize result. Additionally, the mobile wagering sub-system102logs the transaction, updates database game information, and updates an accounting module to reflect the amount spent and player winnings corresponding to the game session. Furthermore, the mobile wagering sub-system102sends a response message (or messages) to the authorized mobile device specifying the information to be displayed and the new value of the player account.

The method then proceeds to block714where the authorized mobile device112receives the outcome(s) from the mobile wagering sub-system102. For example, the authorized mobile device112is configured to present animations and other results associated with the game session. The authorized mobile device112may also include an updated accounting of total credits and the prize amounts awarded. After the game session is completed, the player can return to the game menu at any time and select a different game to play or can start a new game session for the chosen game type and denomination.

At block716, the authorized mobile device receives an “Add Cash” input. By way of example, the player decides to add funds to their play amount by providing the “Add Cash” input, which alerts the illustrative cashier that the player wants to add cash to their player account session total. The cashier then proceeds to interact with the POS device114or POS App (not shown). The illustrative cashier then proceeds to enter the amount of credits to add to the authorized mobile devices and the credits are stored in the illustrative central database314.

At block718, the authorized mobile device receives a “Cash Out” input. For example, when the player has finished a game session and wants to “Cash Out” the player presses a “Cash Out” button on the authorized mobile device112. In the illustrative embodiment, after the authorized mobile device receives the “Cash Out” input, the illustrative cashier is notified that the player desires to “Cash Out.” Using the POS device114of the POS App (not shown), the illustrative cashier selects the “Cash Out” input and obtains the total credits remaining on the authorized mobile device after has completed one or more game session. The remaining player account total information is received from the mobile wagering sub-system102. The cashier pays the player the amount due and confirms the payment at the POS. The client device is then available for use by another player.

The method then proceeds to block720where mobile wagering sub-system102is configured to communicate with the video presentation sub-system104. At block720, the video presentation subsystem104receives game play information and integrates it with other data sources as described above. The video presentation sub-system104generates a video presentation that is broadcast via a private network to participating gaming venues. As described above a stationary monitor110is communicatively coupled to the video presentation sub-system104via the video presentation client116. The stationary monitor client is configured to receive and present the game output generated by the video presentation sub-system. In one illustrative embodiment, the video content is designed to provide enhanced content to the players and to increase the interaction between the players and the games. Additionally, the video content adds interest and excitement to the games. In addition to game-specific content, such as broadcasting a live tournament, the system can be used for a multitude of purposes, including, but not limited to, announcements and pictures on winners, informational videos about sponsoring charities, announcements of new games and upcoming events, advertising, etc.

Referring toFIG. 8there is shown an illustrative menu of games. In the illustrative screenshot802, an array of icons804athrough804erepresenting the menu of available games is presented. The player can then touch one of the game icons before beginning a game session. The game session may differ depending on the class or type of game selected. Types of games that can be supported include electronic pulltabs, bingo, electronic high-speed bingo, electronic high-speed bingo tournaments and other such games of chance. Each game session involves communications with the mobile wagering sub-system102, which determines the prizes awarded and selects the winners. More detail on individual types of game play is provided below.

The illustrative screenshot802also includes a “Help” button806which is used to alert the illustrative cashier interacting with the POS device114that some assistance is required.

Additionally, the screenshot802includes a “Cash Out” button808, which may initiate a redemption transaction at the POS device114. A “Cash Out” input is received by the authorized mobile device when a player desires to conclude interacting with the authorized mobile device112. Alternatively, the illustrative player may go directly to the cashier that interacts with the POS device and player can directly request a “cash-out” from the cashier. The illustrative cashier then proceeds to interact with the POS device (or POS app) by selecting the authorized mobile device112that is associated with player. After the POS device receives a cash-out input corresponding to the player's authorized mobile device112, a cash-out request message is communicated to the appropriate distributor server304. In the illustrative embodiment, the distributor server304communicates to the POS device the player account session balance810that is presented on the authorized mobile device. The POS device114is configured to receive a POS device cash-out input that confirms the actual amount, credits or funds indicated on the authorized mobile device114. The POS device cash-out input is then communicated to the appropriate distribution server304, which then proceeds to communicate that all player interactions with the authorized mobile device have been terminated; and the authorized mobile device displays a player account session balance of $0.00.

The player account balance output810is presented as a “cash” balance; however, “cash” is not stored on the authorized mobile device. The “cash” balance presented in the player account session balance output808represents credit or monetary value that is available for wagering, depending on jurisdictional requirements. If required, the credits may then be converted to fungible cash or other type of financial proceeds, e.g. chips or tickets, when the player cashes out.

The illustrative screenshot802also includes a jackpot value812, which may correspond to a progressive prize. Progressive prizes are prizes that grow in real time as a function of game play. Some progressive prizes may accumulate prizes within a venue. More generally, progressive prizes accumulate prizes from multiple play locations.

An “Add Cash” button814provides an input that triggers a communication to the illustrative POS device114, which notifies the illustrative cashier that the player accessing the authorized mobile device112wants to add credits or funds to the to the authorized mobile device for game play. The process of adding credits or funds to the authorized mobile device is described above.

By way of example and not of limitation, the types of games supported by the centralized gaming system100includes include electronic pull-tab games, bingo, electronic high-speed bingo, electronic high-speed bingo tournaments and other such games of chance.

Electronic pull-tab games are finite pool games that comply with jurisdictional rules limiting prize values and restricting types of permissible video animation. Typically, electronic pull-tab games have small finite-pool sizes, low wager denominations and low prize values compared to casino slot machines. Each game/denomination combination is associated with a different pull-tab deck. Electronic pull-tab games include at least one deck that is always open for each available game. Additionally, electronic pull-tab games include a deck serial number which is displayed on the client game screen as well as in an illustrative Game Information Screens. Typical pull-tab games are available in $0.25, $0.50, $1, $2, and $5 denominations. Available denominations and prize limits are generally controlled by jurisdictional regulations. Operators are able to select which games and denominations are active for each venue and to be able to close any deck.

Referring toFIGS. 9A through 9Dthere is shown a plurality of screen shots for an illustrative electronic pull-tab game. A variety of control buttons provide player inputs that are received by the authorized mobile device112.

The player inputs shown in theFIG. 9Ascreen shot900includes an “Add Cash” control button902, a “Menu” control button904, a “Game Info” control button906, a “Denomination” amount control button908, a “Cash” credit counter910, a “Win” credit counter912, a “Play” control button914.

More specifically, the “Add Cash” control button902is associated with a player input that allows the player to signal to the POS device114that the player wants to add more cash to the player account session. The “Menu” control button602allows the player to return to the game selection menu screen. The “Game Info” control button906provides access to screens which define prizes and rules of play. The “Denomination” amount control button908displays the current denomination and repeated presses of the Denomination amount control button may change the displayed denomination and cause the game to switch to a different finite pool. The “Cash” credit counter910displays the available cash credit balance that is available for game play. The “Win” credit counter912displays the amount won in the prior game session. For the illustrative pull-tab game, the “Play” control button914initiates a game session.

Referring now toFIG. 9Bthere are shown two screen shots associated with an illustrative game session. Screen shot920shows an unrevealed state corresponding to the pull-tab game before the authorized mobile device receives the “Play” game input. After receiving the “Play” game input, the illustrative game session is initiated and then the pull-tab game outcome is presented in a fully-revealed state as shown in screen shot922.

As stated throughout, the mobile wagering sub-system102determines the outcome that is presented in the fully-revealed state presented in screen shot922.

The pull-tab games presented herein include an auto-close option that may be selected by the operator, for any game played at a particular venue. The auto-close option automatically replaces a finite game pool with a new pool when all prizes exceeding a predetermined value for the deck have been exhausted and the game may no longer be desirable by players. When the auto-close option is turned “ON,” a deck may automatically close and be replaced by a new deck when prizes over a game specific value set in the portal are gone. For example, a game may have 3 large value prizes and when the last prize is awarded, the deck may close and a new deck may open. By way of example and not of limitation, the auto close option is identified in the client game information when it is active, so players may know that it is active. A notification may also be given to all active clients when a new deck is open. This feature is attractive to players because they are always assured that there are always some valuable prizes remaining in a deck they may be playing.

There are a variety of other game features for the illustrative pull-tab games that include providing a reveal mechanism that displays the symbols in portions of the screen to create player anticipation. Another game feature includes background music that is unique to the game theme. Another game feature may include a sound that is triggered when each symbol is revealed; and the sound may be different for each game. A further game feature includes a prize rollup sound which is common to all games. Yet another game feature includes a celebration sound on all big wins. Additionally, game features may include a change in music during bonus rounds. Another game feature may include a prize rollup on the base game screen after a bonus round. A still further game feature may include symbols that slide in from the side or other such animated presentation. Yet another game feature includes game specific math that complies with jurisdictional Rules and Statutes.

Referring toFIG. 9Cthere is shown some illustrative screenshots of electronic pull-tab games that include EA$Y MONEY™932, PERSIAN DREAMS™934, ROCK'N'GOLD™936, BOOKOO BUCK$™940, ACES HIGH™942and WILD WALLEYE™944. Other titles include ANCIENT PHARAOH™, BIG PHAT CASH™ and VEGAS VEGAS™.

Referring toFIG. 9Dthere is shown some illustrative screenshots that changes the background graphics based on seasonal changes in the weather. For example, in the illustrative WILD WALLEYE™ shown inFIG. 9D, the graphic background presentation changes based on the seasonal changes in the calendar. Screenshots940and942present background graphics associated with a calendar period between November 1 and April 1, which depict ice-fishing graphics. Screenshots944and946are associated with the remainder of the year, and the graphics reflect summer boat fishing.

Referring toFIG. 10Athere is shown screenshot of an illustrative high-speed bingo game. The screen shot1000is for an illustrative high-speed bingo game that may be referred to as FLASH BINGO™. The panel displayed on the game screen is similar to the one displayed for the pull-tab games, with the addition of a Jackpot Display1002, which presents the current value of a progressive game jackpot. In the illustrative embodiment, the jackpot size increases every play for the bingo game by a percentage of the wager amount; the percentage may be set as one of the portal control functions.

Additionally, the screenshot includes an image of a bingo card1004that is assigned to the player by the mobile wagering sub-system102. The illustrative bingo card1004includes twenty-four (24) numbers, a free space in the middle and four (4) randomly located bonus squares. The panel also has a space for displaying ball draw results1006from a set of 75 bingo numbers. Additionally, the panel includes a results display area1008for displaying bingo game results. The largest portion of the illustrative screenshot1000includes an entertainment display which is animated and displays the results of the bingo game in an entertaining format. In the embodiment shown the entertainment display portion includes a symbol matrix display1010, where matching sets of symbols are used to equate to prize values generated from the bingo game.

The illustrative high-speed bingo game is played between players across the network who desire to play the game at approximately the same time. The illustrative high-speed bingo game is played by having the authorized mobile device112communicate with the mobile wagering sub-system102, and the results generated by the mobile wagering sub-system102are communicated to the authorized mobile device112, which presents the bingo game results in an entertaining manner that awards a prized that matches the bingo win.

In the illustrative embodiment, the high-speed bingo game includes two winning patterns, a Four Corner pattern, which is won by the first player (or players) to get all four corners of their bingo card called, and a Small Frame, which is won by the first player (or players) to complete the set of eight squares surrounding the center square. The illustrative game session for a high-speed game is initiated when a player touches the PLAY button to initiate the game session. The next game event includes having the bingo display area1006“drop down” and shows a blank bingo card and draw. A message is sent to the mobile wagering sub-system102requesting the initiation of a game session. The mobile wagering sub-system102determines if other players have made a similar request. If no other player is found in a specified time period, then the initial play request is aborted and the cash balance in the player account is refunded the play amount.

If at least one other player is found within a specified wait time, then a bingo card is assigned to each player and the game is played rapidly by the mobile wagering sub-system102. As an example, the total time for the MWS to process the wager may be under one second. The mobile wagering sub-system102then sends game information and results to each participating client. The game information broadcast by the mobile wagering sub-system102may include bingo card numbers, the location of bonus squares, color coded ball draw results (green for completion of the Four Corner (4C) game and blue for completion of the Small Frame (SF) game), results summary lines, prize value for each authorized mobile device and other such bingo game information.

Referring toFIG. 10A, the illustrative mobile application running on the authorized mobile device112displays the bingo card and bonus squares. Additionally, the illustrative mobile application displays the ball draw in sequence and indicates squares on the bingo card image that have been called. The authorized mobile device also displays the results summary line1008, which shows the results of the illustrative four corner competition and the status of the small frame competition.

Referring toFIG. 10Bthere is shown further detail of the results summary line. By way of example and not of limitation, the results summary line1010includes a) an abbreviation for the pattern type (4C or SF). Additionally, the results summary line1010includes b) the number of balls that it took to win the pattern. Furthermore, the summary results line1010includes c) the number of bonus squares that were in the winning pattern and the venue name(s) of all the participants(s). Note that fields a, b, c are color coded. Green means that this player was a winner. Red means that another player was the winner and yellow means that the player was tied with another player or players for the win.

The illustrative authorized mobile device112includes a touch sensitive display with visual elements that can be pulled or retracted or retracted from the touch sensitive display. For example, a tab may be “up” and not visible as it moves down during the game session to enable the player to see the bingo play and then automatically moves upwards and out of sight when the entertainment display begins. If the player touched the tab to “pull down” the display it may remain down during all phases of the play cycle.

In one example of the Flash Bingo game called Martian Invasion, the prize structure includes prizes for being the first card to complete a winning pattern such as a four (4) Corner Winner may receive 2.5% of the total wagered on the game by all participants and the Small Frame winner may receive 2.5% of the total wagered on the game by all participants. The illustrative Martian Invasion $2 theme may also have bonus prizes as follows:

Number ofBonus squares inBallsthe winning patternPrize4 Corner Bonus prizes (all winners ofthe 4-corner game are eligible)5-101$200.005-100$150.0011-151$100.0011-150$70.0016-201$50.0016-200$40.0021-301$25.0021-300$15.0031-350$10.0036-400$6.0041-450$3.0046-750$1.00Small Frame Bonus Prizes (all winners ofthe Small Frame game are eligible)8-351$260.008-350$500.0036-401$75.0036-400$98.0041-500$24.0051-550$11.0056 or moreNo Bonus Prizes

Progressive prizes may also be associated with high-speed bingo game presented inFIG. 10. All players playing the same denomination, regardless of the Flash Bingo game theme chosen, participate in the same progressive jackpot game, with the same contribution percentage and the same probability of winning that prize. For example, the probability of winning that prize, which occurs when the 4-corner pattern is covered in 4 balls, is 0.00000082, or odds of 1 in 1,215,450. The game provider may provide a jackpot seed amount, and the jackpot may accumulate based on a percentage contribution from all Flash Bingo play. Although all players playing the same denomination contribute to and are competing for the same progressive jackpot prize, bingo games are specific to a particular game theme, so a player that has selected one game theme may only compete with another player or players who select that same theme. For example, the progressive jackpot for the $2 game denomination may have an initial prize of $5,000, or more. Player contributions may be set to 2%.

Referring toFIG. 11Athere is shown an illustrative lobby with an icon labeled “MegaSota Game Nite,” which identifies access to a Linked Bingo Tournament (LBT). The MegaSota icon1102identifies the data and time of the next scheduled tournament. If the next scheduled tournament is close, then the timer may perform a count-down to the actual game start.

A Linked Bingo Tournament (LBT) is a variation of high-speed electronic bingo, in which players win prizes based on a series of bingo games played against other players for prize points during a predetermined interval. In the illustrative linked bingo tournament (LBT), players are charged a fee to enter the tournament. Similarly, to the high-speed bingo game described above, all bingo games in the tournament are played against other tournament players. In the LBT bingo game winners are awarded points, instead of cash. At the end of the predefined tournament play period, cash prizes are given out to the players that have achieved the highest and/or lowest point scores during the course of the tournament. A pre-determined percent of the entry fees may be allocated for prizes to players.

In the illustrative embodiment, the linked bingo tournament (LBT) sessions are held on scheduled days of the week at specific times. For example, Tuesday evenings between 7:00 and 9:00 may be the schedule time slot for the LBT sessions. Using the Tuesday example, LBT games could begin at 7:00, 7:30, 8:00 and 8:30. The dates and times are scheduled using portal functions that create schedule files in the database of the central system and may be changed from time to time. Notifications of upcoming LBT times may be given to players on their game client devices.

With reference toFIG. 11A, when a player touches the LBT icon, labeled MegaSota Game Nite1102in the illustrative example, the schedule of games shown inFIG. 11Bmay be shown to the player. This schedule may be available at all participating venues on all enabled devices. Players can participate in a common game experience across a wide geography. In one example, participating venues can be located all across the state of Minnesota, so many participants may be able to compete in real-time.

With reference toFIG. 11B, a player may select a scheduled tournament. The menu item shows the date and time that the LBT is scheduled for. If the LBT is scheduled in the current business day, then the time is shown in the form of a countdown. If the LBT is in the pre-scheduled enroll period, then the color of the time changes. The menu description also includes a name for the LBT, the name of the game theme being played, and the cost of entry. Another item on the LBT Menu screen is the WINNERS icon1020. Touching the Winner icon brings up a list of recent tournament winners as shown inFIG. 12. This may include LBTs and/or Bingo games.

When the player selects a menu item1110as shown onFIG. 11B, the player is presented with the enrollment screen shown inFIG. 13. More specifically,FIG. 13includes a Menu button1310that allows the player to return to the tournament menu screen. The Game Info button1320takes the player to descriptive information describing the play of the electronic high-speed bingo game, the points that can be won, rules for play, and the prizes available for final point score rankings. The screen also may have alternative buttons for logging in as a member of a group (PGL) or as an unaffiliated player (Non PGL). In either case, the player may be taken to a player profile screen as shown inFIG. 14. The player may be asked to enter a screen name, using an iOS or Android pop-up keypad and also to use the Edit button to bring up the avatar selection screen illustrated inFIG. 15. With reference toFIG. 16once the player has selected an avatar and screen name they may be presented with the opportunity to sign up for the LBT using the SIGN UP button1610as shown inFIG. 16. In addition to those requirements the LBT must be in its pre-scheduled enrollment period and the player must have enough cash in his player account as shown on the screen1620.

When the player sign-up is successfulFIG. 17may be shown until the tournament starts. In one implementation the player may leave this screen using the Menu button and play other games, such as electronic pulltab games or Flash Bingo games until the tournament starts. If a player is enrolled in an upcoming tournament and is playing another game a special icon may appear on those games, similar to the one shown as1720. Touching that icon may bring the player back to the tournament.

The screen shown inFIG. 18may show when the tournament starts. It shows the number of players in the tournament in all venues1830, and also shows the total revenue1820which may determine prizes which may be a percentage of the LBT revenue. The Play button1810may take the player to the tournament game screen.

FIG. 19is an illustrative LBT game screen. It is a game them called Top Dogs, but many game themes are possible. As with Flash Bingo all prize wins are determined by the result of a high-speed electronic bingo game1970. In the case of the LBT the prizes are expressed in points. After the bingo game is complete the screen may be animated with symbols and the final position of the symbols may have values that add up to the total points awarded in the bingo game. The graphic entertainment is intended to make the game more interesting and entertaining for the player. The play count1910shows the number of plays left that the player has which decrements with each play from the starting point which is a predefined play total that is determined when the tournament is scheduled. The Points meter1920shows the total point accumulated by the player in the tournament. The Win meters1930show the points won by winning the bingo patterns and by winning bonus points. The clock1940show tournament time left and ticks downward from the starting value which is the pre-scheduled length of the tournament. On the left and right side of the screen are sets of screen names. Points, avatars and locations1950and1960. These are a critical element in establishing the social nature of the competition. They give the screen names of the players of who they are playing against and where they are. The icons on the left1950are the 3 highest point earners. If the player on the device is not one of the top 3 point getters then the players position may be shown in the 3 icons on the right1960, which may show the player's position and the players nearest to him or her.

Tournament play continues until all players have completed their allotted number of pays or the tournament time expires, at which time a screen appears as shown inFIG. 20A. More specifically,FIG. 20Aprovides a screenshot2000associated with having completed the player's rounds and an instruction to wait until the end of the tournament to obtain the tournament results.FIG. 20Bprovides an illustrative screenshot2002that the tournament has ended that the player has been awarded a prize.

A special provision may be made to cover the case where a player is trying to play a game and cannot complete it because bingo requires a competitor, and all other players may have completed their allotted games. In one illustrative embodiment, the player in that condition receives a predetermined allotment of points.

FIG. 21illustrates an implementation of a final screenshot2100showing all participating players a summary of all players who won prizes, including their screen name, point totals, prizes won, and location. For example, the top prize winner is “Jon,” and Jon was playing at the Muppet Muffin Inn where he achieved 13,425 points in tournament play and won a prize of $30.00.

If the player interacting with the authorized mobile device112is a winner, the prize amount may normally be added to the players Cash, unless jurisdictional or IRS rules require special handling. After the tournament session is completed, the player may cash-out to redeem their prize or continue playing any offered games. Note, large prizes may be subject to reporting and claim procedures to comply with federal or jurisdictional reporting requirements.

Excitement and player enthusiasm for the illustrative linked bingo tournament (LBT) games are greatly enhanced when the basic game is combined with the video presentation sub-system (VPS)104, a VPS monitor110and broadcast content that includes player ranking information during the LBT game tournament. For example, the video presentation sub-system104may be configured to combine output from the mobile wagering sub-system102with commentary from a broadcaster and visual images of the games in play. The video generated by the VPS104and presented on the venue VPS monitor110converts an individual bingo gaming experience to a group bingo experience, in which many people in a venue can watch or participate. It may be expected that when a player in a venue is doing very well and competing against players in other venues in other towns in a visible way, that the local players may enthusiastically support their own player. Expanding the degree of involvement provides a significant way of converting individual game play into a social event that attracts other players.

By way of example and not of limitation, linked bingo tournament (LBT) games have a short duration, e.g. 15 minutes. LBT game count-downs may be shown on the authorized mobile device112and the venues VPS monitor110. In the illustrative embodiment, the venue's VPS monitor110may be activated at least 30 minutes before the LBT tournament session begins and through the duration of the LBT tournament and for at least 30 minutes after the completion of each LBT tournament.

By way example and not of limitation, an illustrative tournament may include a game buy-in of $20 so that if a player elects to play the tournament, $20 may be transferred to the authorized mobile device112with a POS device114as described above. In the illustrative tournament, there may be 500 players participating and, thus, based on a fee of $20 per player, the total LBT game sales are: $20×500 persons=$10,000. If a further assumption is made to support an 85% prize pool, the total LBT game prizes awarded may be $8,500. Some of the LBT Game Prizes may be configured to contribute to an LBT Linked Tournament Jackpot, and players participating in an LBT may have an opportunity to win those prizes based on achieving a threshold total prize level, or other criteria. That jackpot could be a progressive and the pool would enlarge from tournament to tournament until a player met the winning criteria.

Multiple variants of the LBT may be available for schedule. Some tournament games may have a pay structure similar to the schedule presented below:

Players ingame200250300500Entry Fee$20.00$20.00$20.00$20.00Total Fees$4,000.00$5,000.00$6,000.00$10,000.00Total Prizes$3,400.00$4,250.00$5,100.00$8,500.001st prize30.00%$1,020.00$1,275.00$1,530.00$2,550.002nd Prize15.00%$510.00$637.50$765.00$1,275.003rd Prize15.00%$510.00$637.50$765.00$1,275.004th Prize10.00%$340.00$425.00$510.00$850.005th Prize8.00%$272.00$340.00$408.00$680.006th Prize6.00%$204.00$255.00$306.00$510.007th Prize5.00%$170.00$212.50$255.00$425.008th Prize3.00%$102.00$127.50$153.00$255.009th Prize2.00%$68.00$85.00$102.00$170.0010th Prize1.00%$34.00$42.50$51.00$85.0011th Prize1.00%$34.00$42.50$51.00$85.0012th Prize1.00%$34.00$42.50$51.00$85.0013th Prize1.00%$34.00$42.50$51.00$85.0014th Prize1.00%$34.00$42.50$51.00$85.0015th Prize1.00%$34.00$42.50$51.00$85.00TOTALS100.00%$3,400.00$4,250.00$5,100.00$8,500.00Prize85.00%85.00%85.00%85.00%Return

In the event of a tie prizes may be divided equally among the players. For example, using the above prize structure, and assuming there are 200 players, and that the 4th and 5th place are tied, then the prize won by each of those players would be: ($340+$272)/2=$306. Rounding rules may be subject to jurisdictional regulations.

In the illustrative tournament bingo session, the player's entry fee of $20 allows a fixed number of plays (e.g. 80). For each play, the players “Plays” meter1306may be decremented by 1. If a player wins a prize, the prize points are added to the “Points” meter1204. All games are played against another tournament player for each round. Players may randomly compete versus different players on each card, based on timing of game starts. Only winners of the Small Frame or Four Corner games may receive any points. As in regular Flash Bingo, points may be awarded for winning those games and meeting criteria for winning bonus points associated with those wins.

In operation, LBT tournaments may be identified by a specific game icon on the game client Menu screen. Activation of the game requires that the player have sufficient credits to play according to the game rules. Also, a minimum number of participating players entering into the prize pool may be required to initiate a linked bingo tournament game. In the illustrative embodiment, each bingo tournament game session includes of at least two (2) players playing modified Flash Bingo with a standard 24 number bingo card numbered 1 through 75, B-I-N-G-O with a FREE space in the middle. Games are activated by a player pressing PLAY, which initiates play and selects auto-daubing for each round. During the roll-up period prior to the commencement of a linked bingo tournament (LBT) session, information regarding the total number of player participants and total prize pool for that specific tournament may be exhibited on the player screen and VPS video monitor as shown inFIG. 22andFIG. 23.

Referring toFIG. 22, there is shown an illustrative screenshot for a tournament game coverage as implemented on the VPS) and is presented on the venue-based VPS video monitor. The video screenshot2200includes a host2202that is presenting the tournament event, an updated leader board2204, a banner with local site data2206, and a background screen2208showing an illustrative tournament game from selected devices playing at selected venues.

The illustrative screenshot2200may be presented on a VPS monitor110. During the illustrative tournament game, the venue-based VPS video monitor110may be configured to present a leader board2204to players on a real time basis. The VPS output may also be configured to show the point totals for leading players and identifies the city and venues where the players are playing2204. Additionally, the VPS video monitor110may display the time remaining in the tournament. In the illustrative embodiment, leading players are identified by a chosen screen name and player selected avatars. The centralized gaming system100incorporates a commercially available software filter to avoid use of improper names or initials on the leader board. As described above, the leader board may also be available on player's client devices.

In another illustrative embodiment the video presentation sub-system104provides streaming content to support mobile wagering sub-system102games, including Tournament Bingo. The video presentation sub-system104may be broadcasting 60 minutes, for example, prior to the illustrative linked bingo tournament (LBT) and 30 minutes following the conclusion of tournament sessions. By way of example and not of limitation, the content presented on the VPS video monitor may include: games promotional videos, streaming Flash Bingo Jackpot information, charity promotional videos, advertising and the actual sports-style coverage of the LBT games and bingo games themselves. It should be understood that the time period for a broadcast may be determined by the producers and can be any suitable length of time.

Referring now toFIG. 23there is shown is an image reflecting the player experience at an illustrative venue. The VPS broadcast is shown on an illustrative TV monitor2300, identified also inFIG. 6as item606, and gaming clients2302and2304are shown on a counter. An objective of the VPS system is to provide a social interaction that greatly enhances the interest and enjoyment in the play of the games. In addition, since the broadcast is designed for a large-format visual representation in the gaming venue, it is also visible by non-players and may advertise the game and in many cases find non-players in the venue rooting for the success of the active players in their location. This interactivity is a major component of generating a social quality to the game which may be especially attractive to desirable younger-generation players.

During the linked bingo tournament session, the leader board information may scroll to show the top scores in the network on a “real-time” basis. This leader board information may be expected to cover a state, or more, depending on the jurisdiction hosting the game. The leader board updates may occur frequently, e.g. every 10 seconds. At the end of the LBT game, the winners, the venue where they played and the prizes won may be broadcast. This information may scroll and could remain on a split screen for a period of time. The top winner(s) may be celebrated. As described above, the prize meter indicates the total prize pool for an upcoming game based on the volume of players enrolling in the LBT.

By way of example and not of limitation, for an illustrative Tournament Bingo games the player is advised in real-time of information about the status of the tournament, including size of the jackpot pool, number of players, leaders (identified by a “handle” and location), and time remaining in the tournament. This data may be enhanced with visual representations and comments from a moderator and field reports. Thus, the player obtains a sense of community and competition which cannot be gained from the client game interface itself.

Another game style related to the Linked Bingo Tournament is Bingo. This is a more traditional style of bingo as compared to the high-speed bingo that is the basis for Flash Bingo and the Linked Bingo Tournaments.

Bingo games may be scheduled in the tournament menus interspersed with linked bingo tournaments. In one example, a tournament series may be scheduled that has four (4) events, namely, two (2) Flash Bingo Tournaments and two (2) Linked bingo games. Each event may take 30 minutes, so the entire session, supported by the VPS would be a two-hour session.

The following describes an illustrative implementation of a bingo tournament session. From the tournament menu illustrated inFIG. 11ba player may select a bingo game.

Referring toFIG. 24there is shown an illustrative bingo game enrollment screen for an illustrative bingo game. An illustrative embodiment may present a broad array of bingo variations, distinguished by graphic theme, jackpot possibilities, winning patterns, wagering denomination and prize structures. In the illustrative embodiment, different customizable bingo games may be scheduled and configured through the management system portal. The illustrative enrollment screen2400requires that a player select a screen name in space2410, which is performed with a pop-up keypad. A jackpot value, if appropriate to the bingo variant, is displayed in space2420. Space2430indicates a countdown to the game start. The purchase price and control of the number of cards to be purchased is presented in space2440. Players can purchase a minimum number of cards which may be as low as one and vary between bingo game variants up to a maximum number which may be set by jurisdictional regulations. The system may support incremental sales, allowing a player to make a purchase and then add to it. Alternatively, there is also allowance for a player to cancel a sale.

Referring now toFIG. 25, there is shown a screenshot2500of bingo game before the player initiates game play. In the illustrative embodiment, the player may be required to touch the PLAY button2510to enter the game after the game countdown goes to zero. When it is time for the game to start, the number of players enrolled in the game and the total revenue2530may be displayed on the right side of screenshot2500. Additional game information including rules and prizes may be provided by having the player touch the “Game Info” button2540. When the bingo game play is occurring, the status2550indicates that the bingo game is being played and the player should press the PLAY button2530to join the game. When the game is joined,FIG. 25illustrates the main game screen which may display up to 5 cards. If the player has more than 5 cards in play the screen can be scrolled or moved to show the additional cards, 8 to a screen.

Referring still toFIG. 26, there is shown an illustrative screenshot of bingo game play with multiple bingo cards. In the illustrative embodiment, the large card on the first screen is always the one that is closest to getting the next winning pattern. Each card face at the bottom says AWAY X, where X is the number of spaces that need to be filled on the card to get the next winning pattern.

In operation, the central system100sends down messages with the ball draws. As each ball draw is revealed the ball is shown on the screen in space2610. The game board2620displays all called numbers and all player cards are marked on the screen as each ball is called. Balls are called at a settable rate in the central system100. A typical rate may be one ball each 10 seconds, which is similar to the familiar rate that a ball “caller” in a traditional bingo hall might announce balls as they are drawn. A jackpot value may be displayed in space2630and the winning patterns and associated prizes are displayed in area2640. During the ball call the game client may include audio simulating the voice of a caller calling the balls. In the illustrative embodiment, the game displayed has three winning patterns—a straight line, a large M, and a coverall or “blackout”, meaning that all 24 fillable spaces are called.

Referring toFIG. 27there is shown an illustrative screenshot for a winning bingo pattern. In the illustrative screenshot2700, the winning bingo pattern is a large M and the awarded prize2720is $4.00. As each prize is awarded, the corresponding authorized mobile device presents the awarded prize, e.g. $4.00. If a player is not awarded a prize, then the corresponding authorized mobile device presents a message indicating that another player has been awarded the prize, including the amount, player screen name, and location.

Referring toFIG. 28, there is shown an illustrative winner summary screenshot indicating that all prizes have been awarded for the bingo the game. In the illustrative embodiment, the illustrative bingo game continues until all patterns are complete. At the end of the bingo game, a list of prize winners is presented to each participating player as shown in the winner summary screenshot2800. The location, player screen name and amount for each prize awarded are presented in the winner summary screenshot2800. Prizes may be directly added to the player account balance, except where regulatory or IRS regulation require specific processes.

Referring toFIG. 29there is shown an illustrative VPS broadcast2900as it might be shown during a bingo game. The player enjoyment of the bingo games is significantly enhanced by the associated presentation on the VPS broadcast. Not only is there the human interest supplied by live hosts, but a competitive element is supplied by listing cards that are getting close to a winning pattern.

Referring toFIG. 30, there is shown an illustrative screenshot of a VPS broadcast focusing on winner data during a bingo game. The screenshot3000provides an increased awareness of the winner or winners because the large screen identifies the winning players, their venue and location in real-time during bingo game play.

Referring toFIG. 31, there is shown an illustrative main screen3100for a Gaming League Website. The system and methods presented herein support a Gambling or Gaming League Website (GLW), which is a web-based sub-system that interfaces with and is complementary to the Mobile Wagering Sub-System102shown inFIG. 1. In the illustrative embodiment, the illustrative gambling league website is commercially identified as the PILOT GAMBLING LEAGUE™ (PGL). The illustrative PILOT GAMBLING LEAGUE™ provides functionality intended to promote player competition between players playing the same game, but in a multiplicity of venues that could be separated by hundreds of miles, and thereby enhancing the feelings of a community event and increasing interest in the associated wagering activity.

Referring back toFIG. 1, there are two technical components of the illustrative Gambling League Website. The first component is referred to as a GLW website server120, which is accessed with a common browser, e.g. Internet Explorer, Chrome, Safari, or other such browser. Additionally, the GLW website server120may be accessed using a computing device130that is configured to run a custom Android or iOS “APP.” The computing device may be wired or wireless and includes, by way of example, a PC, tablet or other such computing device that provides Internet access.

The illustrative GLW website server120includes a SQL Server database and a software architecture based on .NET, C# and other such computing languages. The illustrative GLW website server120is also communicatively coupled to the mobile wagering sub-system (MWS)102with an interface that allows players to log into the GLW120or the MWS102with the same screen name and password. Additionally, the GLW120and MWS102both support the common use of player-chosen avatars. Note, in the illustrative embodiment there is no requirement for players on the MWS102to login with a password, so that anonymous play is fully supported. However, if players do desire to identify themselves to the MWS102with their GLW120screen name and password, then they can have the benefit of having aspects of their play transferred to their GLW account. Information that may be transferred from the GLW120to the MWS102includes scores of tournament, prize winnings, play totals, play locations, number of play sessions, and other such game information.

In operation, periodic tournament scores may be tracked based on the results from the MWS102activity. Additionally, the periodic tournament scores are also available to each player that accesses the GLW website server120. The type of data collected, and the corresponding data attributes may vary based upon jurisdictional regulations. In the illustrative embodiment, players may be identified by their chosen screen name and general location. The illustrative website server120presents the top players in each region and their corresponding scores and home town.

FIG. 32shows an illustrative screenshot of player standings in a regional or system competition. The illustrative screenshot3200includes the top players in a particular region.

Referring toFIG. 33there is shown a screenshot3300of an illustrative portion of the player profile. The screenshot includes the particular player's ranking and additional profile information including profiles, standings, history and notification settings.

Referring toFIG. 34there is shown illustrative screenshot3400of past events and future events. By way of example and not of limitation, the past and future events are tournament events as described above.

Referring toFIG. 35there is shown a web page that includes gaming venues that are communicatively coupled to the mobile wagering sub-system locations. The players may access this “locations” web page3500to locate venues for game play that support the systems and method presented herein.

Referring toFIG. 36there is shown an illustrative screenshot3600of a player's virtual rewards. For example, players may also qualify for “vanity awards.” These vanity awards may be granted based on player performance. The vanity awards may provide an expanded choice of avatars, a graphic trophy or trophies that are associated with their screen names, and other such virtual items or awards. The vanity awards may be presented in at least one of the GLW website server120, the mobile wagering sub-system102and the Video Presentation System104. For example, if a player has won a regional virtual gold trophy prize, then the virtual gold trophy prize may be displayed on the VPS television110when the player plays in a new tournament. The player's chosen screen name, avatar and the virtual gold trophy may be displayed on the various VPS television110, which may be located in hundreds of participating venues.

Referring toFIG. 37there is shown an illustrative screenshot3700of news, blogs and tweets for the Gaming League Website. The illustrative screenshot3700may be used to periodically invite GLW members to a regional tournament at a venue in the region. Additionally, non-wagering competitions may be set up at those venues where actual promotional prizes may be awarded. Furthermore, winners of regional tournaments may be invited to a Tournament of Champions, which will take place at a premium location. Further still, a Grand Prize winner may also be selected for a promotional cash or merchandise prize. These competitions or events may be shown live or on video to all players in their normal gaming venues using the Video Presentation System104.

Referring toFIG. 38there is shown an illustrative screenshot of the MWS102game libraries presented to players. The screenshot3800shows that there are three different game types, namely, tournament bingo games, coverall bingo and pulltab games.

The GLW120and MWS102systems are communicatively coupled to the VPS104, which is communicatively coupled to the VPS video display110as shown inFIG. 1. The VPS display110provides the opportunity to highlight GLW players and the GLW events. The VPS display110may be used to highlight regional standings, announce regional winners, show live or video clips of regional events, show live or video clips of the Tournament of Champions, show Interviews with PGL players, and other such GLW information. This close interaction between the VPS104, MWS102and GLW120creates the social atmosphere and spirit of competition and accomplishment improve the success of the wagering enterprise.

Referring toFIG. 39there is shown an illustrative centralized gaming system that supports virtual game representation. The centralized gaming system includes a video presentation sub-system (VPS)3901and a mobile wagering sub-system3904. The mobile wagering sub-system3901and the video presentation sub-system3904are communicatively coupled to one another.

The video presentation sub-system includes a video presentation sub-system (VPS) caching component3902, a server-based interactive control module3906and a broadcast preparation module3912. The VPS caching component3902may be embodied as a memory or other logic component capable of caching content associated with the VPS3901. The server-based interactive control module3906provides a virtual game representation that may be combined with other content at the broadcast preparation module3912.

The mobile wagering sub-system3904and the video presentation sub-system3901are communicatively coupled to a Wide Area Network, e.g. Internet, which is communicatively coupled to a plurality of player devices such as Player Device A3910a, Player Device B3910band other such gaming devices that are represented by Player Device N3910n. The player devices3910are also communicatively coupled to the video presentation subsystem3901. The stationary monitor3914may also be referred as a “stationary monitor client” as described above with reference toFIG. 1.

In the illustrative embodiment, the player devices3910include a plurality of authorized mobile devices as described above inFIG. 1. Additionally, authorized mobile device may be communicatively coupled to Point-of-Sale (POS) device and the mobile wagering sub-system3904as described above inFIG. 1. In operation, the authorized mobile devices and POS devices are registered with the mobile wagering sub-system3904, which includes a database (not shown) that associates the authorized mobile devices and POS devices with a designated gaming venue108as described above inFIG. 1.

In another illustrative embodiment, the mobile wagering sub-system3904and video presentation sub-system3901may also be communicatively coupled to other authorized clients such as gaming machines, slot machines, smartphones, PCs, stationary monitors, Internet appliances, Internet of Things (IoT) devices with hardwire connections or wireless connections to the Wide Area Network.

Communication between the server components, namely, the mobile wagering sub-system3904and the video presentation sub-system3901, the stationary display3914and the player devices is performed over a wide-area network as described above inFIG. 1.

By way of example and not of limitation, the VPS caching component3902retrieves data from the mobile wagering sub-system3904. The illustrative VPS caching component3902ensures that the number of interactive control modules3906,3908a,3908band3908nrequesting data does not affect the mobile wagering subsystem3904. More specifically, the VPS caching component3902may utilize an apache web server with memcache enabled in order to reduce the number of times data is read from any mass storage device.

In operation, data is pulled from the mobile wagering sub-system3904at regular intervals and is held for immediate retrieval by the server-based interactive control module3906and client-based interactive control modules3908a,3908band3908n. In the illustrative embodiment, interactive control modules3906,3908a,3908band3908nwould then create their own https requests to the VPS caching component3902, which returns the exact response retrieved from the mobile wagering subsystem3904. Thus, one or more interactive control modules3906,3908a,3908band3908nretrieves data from the VPS caching component3902. Furthermore, each interactive control module3906,3908a,3908band3908ncontains logic to display the state of the entire tournament game.

The interactive control module3906,3908a,3908band3908nrenders a display containing all or a subset of the information about the state of the tournament session. For example, the gaming device3910a,3910b,3910nmay show the player's state in a two-dimensional environment or a three-dimensional environment. Additionally, the interactive control module3906,3908a,3908band3908nallows a person to control a virtual camera having a field of view smaller than the entire virtual world, which enables the person controlling the virtual camera to view different areas of the virtual world.

In operation, the server-based interactive control module3906generates the video output that may be mixed with a video broadcast feed at broadcast preparation module3912. The video broadcast feed (not shown) may be generated at a television studio. The combination of the video output from server-based interactive control module3906and a video broadcast feed is then displayed on stationary display3914. More generally, the content generated by the broadcast preparation module3912may then be displayed on a stationary monitor3914, player devices3910or any combination thereof.

For example, in the illustrative Fishing Derby tournament game presented inFIGS. 42-61, the state of the game includes items such as where each player has chosen to fish, the lure being used, the chosen fishing buddy, casts remaining, total points earned, player screen name, value of non-rank based prizes, value of rank based prizes and the total number of players.

The interactive control module3906,3908a,3908band3908nincludes a view from that of a boat on a three-dimensional lake, and the user can change the amount of data shown on the screen by piloting the virtual boat to different locations on the lake as shown inFIG. 58. The illustrative view from the boat is associated with Fishing Derby game that is described in further detail inFIGS. 42-61.

Referring toFIG. 40there is shown an illustrative tournament scheduling process on a portal for an illustrative tournament session. Operation of the tournament game begins by scheduling a tournament session. In the illustrative embodiment, the tournament session activity is scheduled at a management terminal (not shown). An illustrative administrative user accesses the management terminal and provides the necessary credentials to properly login to the management terminal. Additionally, the administrative user has the required operational security authority to schedule the tournament session.

It shall be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art having access to this disclosure that the steps ofFIG. 40may be executed in any order and sometimes the different elements can be combined, often depending on jurisdictional requirements and restrictions.

In operation, the tournament scheduling process4000is initiated at4002when the authenticated administrative user securely accesses the management terminal. The method then proceeds to block4004where the administrative user assigns a name to a particular tournament session. In the illustrative embodiment, the name of the tournament session is displayed on the illustrative player devices3910a,3910band3910n. Additionally, the name of the tournament session may also be associated with one or more reports associated with the tournament session.

The method then proceeds to block4006where a start date and start time is associated with the tournament session. Thus, the administrative user determines the tournament session start date and start time by interacting with the management terminal.

Additionally, at block4008, the administrative user can determine an enrollment period for the tournament session. The length of an enrollment period may vary. For example, a game may start at 8 PM, but the players can start to enroll 15 minutes earlier, or at 7:45 PM.

At block4010, the administrative user accessing the management terminal proceeds to determine the length of the tournament session. By way of example and not of limitation, the length of the tournament session is entered in minutes. For example, a tournament can be designed to run for 20 minutes.

In block4012, the administrative user determines a maximum number of game sessions associated with the tournament session. In the illustrative embodiment, this determination of the maximum number of game sessions is necessary when all players have the same number of game sessions. In another illustrative embodiment, the number of game sessions for each tournament session are not determined by the administrative user, instead, players are allowed can play as many game sessions as possible within the allocated time for the tournament session. Note, the type of tournament may be dictated by jurisdictional requirements and so the number of game sessions may be fixed or vary.

Additionally, there may be a variety of types of tournament session. The tournament session may vary based on game theme, prize structure or any combination thereof. By way of example and not of limitation, the prize structure may be associated with the quantity of winners, the percentage of the prize pool that will be won by winning players. Thus, the top finisher may be awarded 10% of the prize pool, the second-place winner may be awarded 8% of the prize pool and the remaining winners may be awarded other amounts.

At block4014, the administrative user may select a particular type of tournament session from a menu of available choices. Additionally, the type of game session may also vary. Recall, that a tournament session includes a plurality of game sessions.

By way of example and not of limitation, the game sessions may be bingo-based, in which the prize amount is determined by the results of a bingo game between players and the resulting prize is presented in an entertaining manner such as a slot-machine or pull-tab game. In another illustrative embodiment, the awarded prize may be determined by a formula that us based on the generation of one or more random numbers by an algorithm associated with an illustrative gaming server. In yet another embodiment, the game session may be based on selection of a prize result from finite or infinite pool of predetermined possibilities. Examples of predetermined pools would include electronic pull-tabs or electronic instant tickets.

The method then proceeds to block4016, in which the administrative user accessing the management terminal enters the cost for each player to enter the tournament session. The method then proceeds to block4018where the administrative user associates a progressive prize pool with the tournament session. The illustrative progressive prize specifies a percentage of the total enrollment costs played by the players that will be allocated to the growth of the progressive pool as well as the criteria to for awarding the progressive prize pool or any portion of the progressive prize pool.

At block4020, the administrative user may enter a prize schedule for the tournament session. The prize schedule specifies the percentage of the prize pool to be won by the top ranked player, the second ranking player, and so on for the specific number of winners associated with the tournament session.

At block4022, the administrative user schedules a particular frequency of game play for the tournament session. More particularly, a tournament session may be schedule as a one-time event or it may “recur” at a specified interval (e.g. daily, weekly, etc.). Thus, the administrative user may schedule the tournament session recurrence.

At block4024, the administrative user establishes a seed value for the game prize pool; this seed value may be added to the prize pool contribution from the player enrollment costs before calculating player prizes at the end of a tournament.

Referring toFIG. 41there is shown an illustrative process4100for operating the tournament session, which begins at4102. At block4104, the tournament session is scheduled as described above inFIG. 40.

The method then proceeds to block4106where the process of enrolling players begins, which has been described above. In the illustrative embodiment, players may select a game open for enrollment, as indicated by the green tournament icon1110inFIG. 11B. After selecting the tournament session, an enrollment screen as shown inFIG. 13appears. The time shown1330is the time remaining before the start of the tournament.

An illustrative Flash Bingo tournament session information is provided at1340and more detailed data is provided when the player selects the GameInfo button1320. The player may also exit the enrollment process by selecting the Menu button1310. The illustrative Enter Screen Name prompts the player to enroll as a PGL member, indicating that they are participating in the PGL loyalty program, or as a non-PGL member.

In the illustrative embodiment, the player is then prompted to enter a screen name as shown inFIG. 14. If the player selects an avatar, they will be presented with the screen that provides that function as shown inFIG. 15. The player may then conclude the enrollment by selecting the SIGN-UP button presented inFIG. 16. In the illustrative embodiment, the wager is subtracted from the players account balance when the game session is initiated. Note, if the player does not have sufficient funds in his/her player account, the enrollment will be rejected.

At block4108, the player may select certain entertainment elements before the tournament session. For example, in the illustrative Fishing Derby Tournament described below inFIG. 42-FIG. 61, the player may select a fishing partner, as shown inFIG. 55. Additionally, the player may select a type of lure as shown inFIG. 54. Furthermore, the player may select a fishing location on a virtual lake, as shown inFIG. 56. Alternatively, if the player does not select certain entertainment elements before the tournament session, default entertainment selections are used.

In some jurisdictions an additional selection of a PLAY button may be required when at the beginning of the tournament session, as shown above inFIG. 18. Note, that sometimes a minimum number of players are required for a particular tournament session and if the number of enrolled players does not equal or exceed the minimum, then the game will be cancelled, and all player funds will be returned to the player accounts of the enrolled players.

At block4110, the tournament session is initiated. When the tournament session starts, the players proceed to play a plurality of game sessions. In one embodiment, players play their predetermined allotment of game sessions as shown in block4112. In another embodiment, each player plays game sessions until the tournament time concludes, as specified by the game setup, as previously described.

During game play, the illustrative VPS system3901provides periodic updates to all players on the status of the tournament session. The updates are displayed on each of the player's mobile device screens, on the stationary VPS monitors3914in the venue, and on other personal devices such as a smartphone.

At block4114, the tournament session concludes. The method then proceeds to block4116where the player point totals are ranked by the illustrative mobile wagering system3904(shown inFIG. 39). Additionally, at block4116, the prizes allocated according to the prize structure are added to the player account totals. Special handling of larger amounts may be required in the event the prize amounts exceed certain jurisdictional and/or IRS mandated values.

One unique feature of the tournament session is that a progressive prize may be awarded for a single game play session during the tournament session. Thus, there may be multiple wins of the same progressive prize during the tournament session. By way of example and not of limitation, at block4118, the progressive prizes may be awarded at the end of the tournament session. If there are multiple winners of the same progressive prize, then the progressive prize is split among the various winners. Partial pennies are handled according to jurisdictional requirements. In the illustrative embodiment, all cash prizes are added to the player's account balance.

At block4120, the final status of the tournament session is communicated to the VPS sub-system3901and to the Pilot Gambling League (PGL). At block4122, the final tournament reports may be prepared for management and regulators.

Referring toFIG. 42there is shown an illustrative flowchart4200of a player experience during an illustrative tournament session. In the illustrative embodiment, the tournament session relates to a fishing tournament associated with a Fishing Derby tournament session that is described in further detail inFIGS. 42-61. At4202, the illustrative Fishing Derby is initiated.

The method proceeds to block4204and the player enrolls in the tournament session as previously described inFIG. 40andFIG. 41.

At block4206, the player may select entertainment elements specific to the illustrative Fishing Derby as described above in block4108. Additionally, in the Fishing Derby tournament session the player may select fishing location such as shown inFIG. 56. The player may also select one of three fishing partners as shown inFIG. 55. Additionally, the player may select one of nine lures as shown inFIG. 54. The choices do not affect the play of the game or prizes won. They are entertainment elements to make the game more fun.

The method continues to block4208where game play for the illustrative Fishing Derby tournament session begins. In the illustrative embodiment, the player is presented with an illustrative screen shot of the selected fishing area as shown inFIG. 43. During the game session, the player selects an area to cast the fishing lure by touching a location on the screen and then activating the CAST button.

At block4210, the game sessions associated with the Fishing Derby tournament session are bingo driven so that the awarded prize is determined by playing a bingo game with another player. During an illustrative game session, the player selects the CAST button shown inFIG. 43. When the CAST button instruction is received by the illustrative player device3910(shown inFIG. 39), a first request is communicated to the mobile gaming sub-system3904.

The mobile gaming sub-system3904then proceeds to pair the first request with a second request from at least one other player. A bingo card is then randomly created by the mobile gaming sub-system3904for each player and a common ball draw occurs until winning patterns have occurred for one or more bingo patterns. In the illustrative embodiment, the bingo patterns include a small frame bingo pattern and a four-corner bingo pattern.

A point total is calculated by the mobile gaming sub-system3904based on which bingo card obtains the winning bingo pattern, the number of balls that were drawn to obtain the winning bingo pattern and the number of “bonus” balls in each winning pattern. There is shown an illustrative table inFIG. 53that includes the prizes awarded for the winning four corner bingo pattern and the small frame bingo pattern.

During each game session, a response message is sent from the mobile gaming sub-system3904to each participating player device3910that identifies the card the player was assigned, the ball draw, the results, and the point totals won. InFIG. 44, there is shown an illustrative screen shot with the bingo card, ball draw and results displayed on the player's game screen. The various steps described as part of block4210are generally performed rapidly, e.g. in less than one second.

The method then proceeds to block4212where the player device3910displays the awarded points. Points contribute to a ranked prize, to be awarded at the end of the tournament. In the illustrative embodiment, the player may be awarded points toward a ranked prize or receive a non-ranked prize. A ranked prize relates to awarding a prize based on ranking the points awarded to players participating in the tournament session so that the players are ranked according to their point totals. A non-ranked prize is associated with awarding a player a prize without having to rank the player's point total in relation to the other players. Thus, a player that has achieved a very low ranking may be awarded a non-ranked prize even though said player cannot be awarded a ranked prize because of their low player ranking.

In one illustrative embodiment of a ranked prize, the awarded points are presented as a caught fish, or other element such as a boot shown inFIG. 45. For example, inFIG. 51the number of points corresponding with a fish type are described in a “Prize List.” InFIG. 44there is shown the awarded points being displayed as a large mouth bass consistent with the prize list shown inFIG. 51. The illustrative boot presented inFIG. 45represents the player not having been awarded any points. InFIG. 46, a fishing bonus is presented, which is another symbolic representation for the awarded points.

In another illustrative embodiment of the ranked prize, the awarded points may also be displayed as a “bonus win” where the player selects items in a bait shop as shown inFIG. 47. The illustrative bonus win is not related to a secondary bonus game, instead, the illustrative bonus win is presented as representation of the awarded points associated with the bingo game session. InFIG. 47, each item selected in the bait shop by the player may be associated with a number of awarded points. Additionally, as shown inFIG. 48, the awarded points may be presented as an animated wheel that shows the awarded points reflected as an amount of points displayed on the wheel.

With respect to a non-ranked prize, awarded points may be displayed as a progressive prize that is awarded during a game session when a particular bingo pattern is obtained under a predetermined number of ball draws as shown at the top ofFIG. 52. The awarded progressive prize may be presented as a bait shop bonus that includes the wheel shown inFIG. 48; and, subsequently, the wheel rotates and stops at one of a Smallmouth Jackpot or a Largemouth Jackpot as shown inFIG. 49andFIG. 50, respectively.

The progressive prize is associated with a non-ranked win, in which the non-ranked win is independent of the total point ranking of the player. Thus, if the player wins the non-ranked prize, e.g. the progressive prize, the player is awarded the progressive prize even if the player is ranked in last place is unable to be awarded a ranked prize. If more than one player hits the progressive in the course of a single tournament, then the process would normally be to split the progressive between the winners, but alternative handling may be required based upon marketing and jurisdictional regulations. Furthermore, in other game implementations, non-ranked prizes may include cash prizes or a tangible prize, like a car. These non-ranked prizes may also be awarded based on a single game session event and be independent of total point rankings associated with the tournament session.

At decision diamond4214, a determination is made whether a non-ranked prize is awarded. If a non-ranked prize is awarded, the win and gaming event is recorded as shown in block4216. The non-ranked prize win and related gaming events are recorded because the non-ranked prizes are typically larger then the ranked prize wins. The larger prizes typically require additional manual or electronic processing as specified by jurisdictional and/or federal IRS requirements. In addition, the recording of these wins allows for a determination of the final pay amount at block4234which may be determined based on the number of winners of a specific non-ranked prize.

At block4218, the visual display is updated. More specifically, as the tournament session continues, the player devices3910and the stationary display3914(shown inFIG. 39) are updated to show the current display tournament rankings, screen names, avatars and locations of other players as shown inFIG. 22andFIG. 57.

Referring toFIG. 57there is show the updated VPS display of tournament rankings, screen names, avatars and physical locations of other players during a flash bingo tournament. The illustrative host5702may be a live host (a live person) or a virtual host such as an artificial intelligence (AI) host that comments on the game tournaments during tournament game play. The live host5702may also be referred to as a host, hostess, TV host, presenter, TV presenter, game presenter, master of ceremonies, MC, narrator, commentator or other such person that guides or introduces the game tournament and describes tournament game play such the points awarded to a player in a particular virtual location.

Generally, the host5702provides commentary about the game tournament using enhanced visual representations of the tournament game session. In one embodiment, the enhanced visual representations are controlled by the host5702. By way of example and not of limitation, the illustrative enhanced visual representations are not controlled by the tournament game players.

The host may be displayed on gaming clients2302and2304or on a networked display2300which are shown above inFIG. 23. The networked display2300may also be referred to as “PilotTV.” By way of example and not of limitation, the gaming clients described above are configured to display PilotTV content or other such video broadcast content that includes the live host or AI host. The live video broadcast content may be generated in a television studio, television production studio or other such video production location capable of recording live content.

The illustrative screenshot inFIG. 57also shows the updated VPS display and various tournament prize including, but not limited to, a first prize of $792, a second prize of $594, a third prize of $528, a fourth prize 396 and a fifth prize of $264.

The progressive gaming module is communicatively coupled to a plurality of gaming clients. Each gaming client allocates a percentage of one or more wagers to a progressive pool. Typically, the progressive pool begins with a seed prize and increases with a portion of the wagers received from the gaming clients that are communicatively coupled to the progressive gaming module.

In the illustrative embodiment, the progressive gaming module can communicate with a tournament server when the gaming system is in a tournament session. In the illustrative embodiment, the tournament session includes a limited number of game sessions. In another illustrative embodiment, the tournament session includes a limited number of game sessions that are played during a fixed time period.

In the illustrative embodiment, one or more tournament prizes are awarded to the top ranked players having the highest number of points. In the illustrative embodiment, the tournament prize is referred to as a “prize pool.” The prize pool is awarded to the player with the most points at the completion of the tournament session. The prize pool may award a fixed prize that is based on the number players participating in the tournament session. Alternatively, the tournament prize pool may be based on a portion of the wagers received by the gaming clients, i.e. the tournament prize pool may be a progressive prize that is awarded to the player or players with the most accumulated points at the completion of the tournament session.

Additionally, the visual presentation sub-system can present updated entertaining game-based data to the player devices3910and stationary display3914. The updated entertaining game-based data may include the points awarded to other players that participated in the tournament session that were selected by the player. Additionally, the updated entertaining game-based data may be related to the type of lure as shown inFIG. 60. Furthermore, updated entertaining game-based data may include the virtual lake location where players are fishing as shown inFIG. 59.

Further, the interactive control module3906and3908(shown inFIG. 39) integrates live game play data with virtual environments. The interactive control module3906and3908renders a display containing all or a subset of the information about the state of the game and may show the player's state of the game in a two-dimensional environment or a three-dimensional environment.

For example, an immersive virtual environment can be created by combining the 2D representation of the “Wampum Lake” fishing locations shown inFIG. 56with live tournament data. The illustrative immersive virtual environment generates a 3D model of the virtual lake that a player navigates in a virtual ride across the lake. The immersive virtual environment shows virtual boats corresponding to live players at their chosen point of play with their actual screen names and points.

InFIG. 56there is shown updated entertaining game-based data that includes the virtual lake location where players are fishing. In the illustrative embodiment, there are two different progressive prizes described as “large mouth jackpot”5602and “small mouth jackpot”5604that may be awarded at the end of each game session. In the illustrative embodiment, both of these “jackpot” prizes are progressive prizes that can be awarded at the game session, but independent of the player ranking. By way of the example and not of limitation, the large mouth jackpot5602progressive prize may be associated with a four corner's bingo pattern and the small mouth jackpot progressive prize5604may be associated with the small frame bingo pattern.

There may be many tournament prizes that are awarded based on the player's ranked position of total points at the conclusion of the tournament session which are presented a prize pool5606of $56.00 or a top prize5608of $9.60.

The awarded prizes are split when two or more players complete the tournament session with the same number of points. More particularly, if two or more players finish with the exact same number of points, their prize is the sum of the prizes for those finishing positions divided by the number of winners. For example, if 1stplace was to receive $100 and second place was to receive $50, and the top 2 finishers in the tournament both received 10,000 points, then the total of $150 is divided by two so that each player receives $75.

With respect to progressive prizes, in which two or more players achieve the winning progressive paying pattern, the progressive prize is evenly split between the two or more players having the winning progressive paying pattern. For example, if multiple players achieve the winning progressive paying pattern during a tournament session, then the amount paid to each player is the total progressive amount divided by the number of winners.

FIG. 58provides an illustrative screen shot of the immersive virtual environment that combines live tournament data being with the fishing locations of other players. The player devices3910and stationary display3914shows the rendered data corresponding to the immersive virtual fishing environment. The immersive data may also be accessed by a player's own smartphone or other personal device.

The method continues to block4222where the player may change their location, partner or lure.

At decision diamond4224, the mobile wagering sub-system3904determines whether the time for the tournament session is concluded. If the determination at decision diamond4224is that the time for tournament session is not completed, the method proceeds to decision diamond4226.

At decision diamond4226, a determination is made whether the player has completed their game play allotment. If the player has not completed their game play allotment of game sessions, the method returns the player to block4210where the player continues playing the next game session.

However, if the player has completed their game play allotment of game session at decision diamond4226, then the final prize calculations are performed at block4232when the tournament session is complete. An illustrative pay table with prize percentages is shown inFIG. 52.

If, at decision diamond4224, the mobile wagering sub-system3904determines that the time for the tournament session is over, then the method proceeds to decision diamond4228.

At decision diamond4228a determination is made whether the player has completed their game play allotment. If the player has completed their game play allotment, the method proceeds to block4232. However, if the tournament is complete (in view of decision4224) and the player's allotment of games has not been completed, then the player may be eligible for an additional point allocation, as specified by the parameters of the chosen tournament type, at block4230because the player was trying to complete a game session and there was no other player to play against.

The method then continues to block4232where the final ranking of players is determined, and prizes are allocated according to the tournament game parameters. At block4234, any non-ranked prizes are credited to players.

The method continues to block4236where prizes are credited to the player when the tournament session is over. At block4238, the players are presented with the final tournament results on the game device screen as shown previously inFIG. 21.

Additionally, at block4240, the players may also be presented with the results at the stationary screen3914which is communicatively coupled to the video presentation sub-system3901.

The illustrative tournament session associated withFIG. 42is then concluded.

Referring back toFIG. 52, there is shown an illustrative paytable5202based on percentages of the total tournament monies that are awarded at the completion of the tournament session. InFIG. 57, the paytable5202is applied to a tournament session prize of $6600.

FIG. 57also shows a variety of prizes below the image of the live host5702. The displayed prizes include the first place prize5704of $792, the second place prize5706of $594, the third place prize5708of $528, the fourth place prize5710of $396 and the fifth place prize5712of $264. Note, an additional set of five additional prizes are not presented in theFIG. 57screenshot. When all the prizes inFIG. 57are combined with the pay table percentages ofFIG. 52, the total tournament session prizes total $6600. At the end of the tournament session, the players with the highest point total wins the first place prize, the player with the second point total wins the second place prize, and so on until the top ten highest point totals are awarded prizes.

When two or more players have the same total points, the tournament prize may be divided up by the players rank at the conclusion of the tournament. In this circumstance, the players having the same point total divide the awarded prizes. For example, if the the second place player, third place player and fourth place player have the same total point score at the end of the tournament session shown inFIG. 57, then the prizes are divided between the players; the prizes are divided by combining the second place prize5706of $594, the third place prize5708of $528, and fourth place prize5710of $396, which totals $1,518, and then dividing the total by the three. The resulting divided prize is $506. Thus, the three players that had the same point total at the completion of the tournament session are each awarded a prize of $506.

Referring toFIG. 58there is shown an illustrative screen shot of a virtual world that is controlled by the illustrative live host5702shown inFIG. 57. The illustrative virtual world5802is a three-dimensional virtual world that can be viewed by the live host5702. The three-dimensional view shown in screenshot5802presents the other boats, i.e. players, that are fishing in a particular location. The screenshot5802presents a view from the perspective of another watercraft navigating through the three-dimensional virtual world.

However, the virtual world5802may not be displayed on the gaming client unless the live host5702determines that the virtual world5802should be presented to the gaming clients. Generally, virtual worlds are controlled by the player. On this illustrative embodiment, the virtual world5802is controlled by the live host. Thus, the live host determines whether the screen shot5802is shared with the bingo gaming clients and the virtual world5802may or may not be visible to the players participating in the tournament session. The virtual world5802may also be presented on a networked display such as PilotTV, which may also occur at the discretion of the live host5702.

During the live video broadcast content, the live host5702may identify one or more locations in the virtual world. The live host5702may travel to one or more locations in the virtual world and provide real-time updates on the points awarded to one or more gaming clients at the virtual world location.

The live host5702may alternatively elect to share content as shown inFIG. 59, which shows a screenshot5902of a two-dimensional top view of the virtual lake location. The screenshot5902is similar to an animated map. More specifically, the screenshot5902includes a top view of a map that includes “Eagle Island,” which is similar to a birds-eye view. Referring back toFIG. 58, a three-dimensional view of “Eagle Island” is presented from the perspective of a virtual boat travelling in the three-dimensional virtual world5802.

The live host5702can decide to transition from a two-dimensional birds-eye view5902to a three-dimensional virtual world view5802that simulates the view from a watercraft. The live host may also elect to provide a studio backdrop as shown inFIG. 57. The live host may alternate between these views to add excitement to the game play while commenting on the points awarded during the tournament session. Thus, the live host is able to update players about the game play during the tournament session and simulate a sport fishing tournament, e.g. pro bass tournament fishing, in an exciting and interactive manner.

The illustrative gaming systems and methods presented above may include a plurality of server applications that are configured to provide high-availability and redundancy, processes all inputs, generates outputs, and maintains a central database for accounting, game play, system configuration data, and other such data types. By way of example and not of limitation, critical system data regarding clients may be maintained a repository associated with the illustrative gaming system. Historical games results, and leader board information may be maintained. Printable versions of this information may be available on the portal.

The illustrative client devices described in the illustrative embodiments are communicatively coupled to a gaming system database, which stores client device data. Additionally, the illustrative gaming system database is configured to be secure. Furthermore, the illustrative gaming system database manages the data that is received from client devices in geographically dispersed gaming venues.

The illustrative centralized gaming system may be disposed in a central site as described herein. The illustrative centralized gaming system may process information received over the internet backbone from client devices such as mobile devices, management terminals and other such client devices.

The illustrative MWS sub-system manages the funding of game play and operation of wagering games and overall system management. All gaming messaging between servers and client devices is sent and received over a secure internet network that directs network traffic to the appropriate server elements. A Portal service receives messages from management terminals and provides functionality to authorized users to control the system and access real-time and historical data. All server applications are structured to be deployable in a virtual server environment, configured for high-availability with fail-over capabilities on hardware components and database structures that keep a multiplicity of all data records.

By way of example and not of limitation, the games supported by the wagering system include electronic pull-tabs, linked bingo, high-speed linked bingo with entertainment, bingo tournaments, slot games, video poker, multi-player poker, black-jack, roulette, and other casino or non-casino based entertainment games.

Many game types, including electronic pull-tabs and the entertainment aspect of linked bingo have bonus modes that award prizes based on a theme-specific animation. Often these features take more play time than a conventional game. While these features are entertaining, many players who have played the games for some period of time find the time spent in animation wasteful. Therefore, this system features a unique option at the beginning of any potentially long bonus animation. The player is presented with a screen announcing the bonus and then is presented with an option to proceed with the bonus animation or bypass the animation and go directly to the prize award at the end of the animation.

It is clear that the infrastructure of the MWS with the added capabilities of the VPS can support a wide variety of game types, in addition to the ones described herein. Those games include slot machine games, video lottery games, poker, blackjack, skill-based wagering games, among others previously mentioned.

It should be noted that in jurisdictions that allow gaming outside of physically licensed areas some of the above-mentioned security considerations may be relaxed or replaced by more appropriate mechanisms. It is to be understood that the detailed description of illustrative embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes. The scope of the claims is not limited to these specific embodiments or examples. Therefore, various process limitations, elements, details, and uses can differ from those just described, or be expanded on or implemented using technologies not yet commercially viable, and yet still be within the inventive concepts of the present disclosure. The scope of the invention is determined by the following claims and their legal equivalents.