U.S. Pat. No. 8,678,928

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A system to deliver video games is disclosed and includes a server having a processor and a memory accessible to the processor. A computer program is embedded in the memory and includes instructions to receive a request for a game from a set-top box device. The computer program also includes instructions to retrieve previous game information associated with at least one user identity associated with the set-top box device. The computer program also includes instructions to authorize at least one user to continue the game at least partially based on the previous game information.

In another embodiment, a method of delivering video games is disclosed and includes receiving a request for a game use from a set-top box device. The method includes receiving a request for a game from a set-top box device. The method also includes determining whether at least one user identity is associated with the set-top box device. The method also includes retrieving previous game information associated with the at least one user identity. The method can also include providing the previous game information to the set-top box device and allowing at least one user to continue a previously executed game in response to a user selection at least partially based on the previous game information.

In another embodiment, a method of delivering video games is disclosed and includes receiving a request for a game, where the request is identified by a first user identity associated with a set-top box device. The method also includes receiving a selection to play the game in an online room with a plurality of additional players. The method also includes retrieving previous game information associated with the first user identity and with additional user identities associated with the plurality of additional players. The method also includes providing the previous game information to the set-top box device. The method can also include continuing the game based on the previous game information.

In another embodiment, a method of receiving video games is disclosed and includes requesting a game. The method also includes receiving information from at least one previous game. The method also includes displaying the information from the at least one previous game at a display device. The information from the at least one previous game use is associated with at least one user identity associated with a set-top box device.

Referring toFIG. 1, an IPTV system is shown and is generally designated100. As shown, the system100can include a client facing tier102, an application tier104, an acquisition tier106, and an operations and management tier108. Each tier102,104,106,108is coupled to a private network110, a public network112, or both the private network110and the public network112. For example, the client-facing tier102can be coupled to the private network110. Further, the application tier104can be coupled to the private network110and to the public network112, such as the Internet. The acquisition tier106can also be coupled to the private network110and to the public network112. Moreover, the operations and management tier108can be coupled to the public network112.

As shown inFIG. 1, the various tiers102,104,106,108communicate with each other via the private network110and the public network112. For instance, the client-facing tier102can communicate with the application tier104and the acquisition tier106via the private network110. The application tier104can also communicate with the acquisition tier106via the private network110. Further, the application tier104can communicate with the acquisition tier106and the operations and management tier108via the public network112. Moreover, the acquisition tier106can communicate with the operations and management tier108via the public network112. In a particular embodiment, elements of the application tier104can communicate directly with the client-facing tier102.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the client-facing tier102can communicate with user equipment via a private access network166, such as an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) network. In an illustrative embodiment, modems, such as a first modem114and a second modem122can be coupled to the private access network166. The client-facing tier102can communicate with a first representative set-top box device116via the first modem114and with a second representative set-top box device124via the second modem122. The client-facing tier102can communicate with a large number of set-top boxes, such as the representative set-top boxes116,124, over a wide geographic area, such as a regional area, a metropolitan area, a viewing area, or any other suitable geographic area that can be supported by networking the client-facing tier102to numerous set-top box devices.

In one embodiment, the client-facing tier102can be coupled to the modems114,122via fiber optic cables. Alternatively, the modems114and122can be digital subscriber line (DSL) modems that are coupled to one or more network nodes via twisted pairs, and the client-facing tier102can be coupled to the network nodes via fiber-optic cables. Each set-top box device116,124can process data received via the private access network166, via an IPTV software platform, such as Microsoft® TV IPTV Edition.

Additionally, the first set-top box device116can be coupled to a first display device118, such as a first television monitor, and the second set-top box device124can be coupled to a second display device126, such as a second television monitor. Moreover, the first set-top box device116can communicate with a first remote control120, and the second set-top box device can communicate with a second remote control128.

In an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment, each set-top box device116,124can receive data or video from the client-facing tier102via the private access network166and render or display the data or video at the display device118,126to which it is coupled. In an illustrative embodiment, the set-top box devices116,124can include tuners, such as the tuner184shown inFIG. 1, that receive and decode television programming information for transmission to the display devices118,126. Further, the set-top box devices116,124can include a STB processor178and a STB memory device180that is accessible to the STB processor178. In a particular embodiment, the set-top box devices116,124can also communicate commands received from the remote control devices120,128back to the client-facing tier102via the private access network166.

In an illustrative embodiment, the client-facing tier102can include a client-facing tier (CFT) switch130that manages communication between the client-facing tier102and the private access network166and between the client-facing tier102and the private network110. As shown, the CFT switch130is coupled to one or more data servers132that store data transmitted in response to user requests, such as video-on-demand material. The CFT switch130can also be coupled to a terminal server134that provides terminal devices, such as a game application server168and other devices with a common connection point to the private network110. In a particular embodiment, the CFT switch130can also be coupled to a video-on-demand (VOD) server136.

As shown inFIG. 1, the application tier104can communicate with both the private network110and the public network112. In this embodiment, the application tier104can include a first application tier (APP) switch138and a second APP switch140. In a particular embodiment, the first APP switch138can be coupled to the second APP switch140. The first APP switch138can be coupled to an application server142and to an OSS/BSS gateway144. The application server142provides applications to the set-top box devices116,124via the private access network166, so the set-top box devices116,124can provide functions, such as display, messaging, processing of IPTV data and VOD material, etc. In a particular embodiment, the OSS/BSS gateway144includes operation systems and support (OSS) data, as well as billing systems and support (BSS) data.

Further, the second APP switch140can be coupled to a domain controller146that provides web access, for example, to users via the public network112. The second APP switch140can be coupled to a subscriber and system store148that includes account information, such as account information that is associated with users who access the system100via the private network110or the public network112. In a particular embodiment, the application tier104can also include a client gateway150that communicates data directly to the client-facing tier102. In this embodiment, the client gateway150can be coupled directly to the CFT switch130. The client gateway150can provide user access to the private network110and the tiers coupled thereto.

In a particular embodiment, the set-top box devices116,124can access the system via the private access network166, using information received from the client gateway150. The private access network166provides security for the private network110. User devices can access the client gateway150via the private access network166, and the client gateway150can allow such devices to access the private network110once the devices are authenticated or verified. Similarly, the client gateway150can prevent unauthorized devices, such as hacker computers or stolen set-top box devices from accessing the private network110, by denying access to these devices beyond the private access network166.

For example, when a set-top box device116accesses the system100via the private access network166, the client gateway150can verify subscriber information by communicating with the subscriber and system store148via the private network110, the first APP switch138and the second APP switch140. Further, the client gateway150can verify billing information and status by communicating with the OSS/B SS gateway144via the private network110and the first APP switch138. The OSS/BSS gateway144can transmit a query across the first APP switch138, to the second APP switch140, and the second APP switch140can communicate the query across the public network112to the OSS/BSS server164. After the client gateway150confirms subscriber and/or billing information, the client gateway150can allow the set-top box device116access to IPTV content and VOD content. If the client gateway150cannot verify subscriber information for the set-top box device116, e.g., because it is connected to a different twisted pair, the client gateway150can deny transmissions to and from the set-top box device116beyond the private access network166.

As indicated inFIG. 1, the acquisition tier106includes an acquisition tier (AQT) switch152that communicates with the private network110. The AQT switch152can also communicate with the operations and management tier108via the public network112. In a particular embodiment, the AQT switch152can be coupled to a live acquisition server154that receives television content, for example, from a broadcast service156. Further, the AQT switch can be coupled to a video-on-demand importer server158that stores television content received at the acquisition tier106and communicate the stored content to the client-facing tier102via the private network110.

FIG. 1further illustrates that the operations and management tier108can include an operations and management tier (OMT) switch160that conducts communication between the operations and management tier108and the public network112. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 1, the OMT switch160is coupled to a TV2server162. Additionally, the OMT switch160can be coupled to an OSS/BSS server164and to a simple network management protocol (SNMP) monitor166that monitors network devices. In a particular embodiment, the OMT switch160can communicate with the AQT switch152via the public network112.

In a particular embodiment during operation of the IPTV system, the live acquisition server154can acquire television content from the broadcast service156. The live acquisition server154can transmit the television content to the AQT switch152, in turn, and the AQT switch152can transmit the television content to the CFT switch130via the private network110. Further, the television content can be encoded at the D-servers132, and the CFT switch130can communicate the television content to the modems114,122via the private access network166. The set-top box devices116,124can receive the television content from the modems114,122, decode the television content, and transmit the content to the display devices118,126according to commands from the remote control devices120,128.

Additionally, at the acquisition tier106, the video-on-demand (VOD) importer server158can receive content from one or more VOD sources outside the IPTV system100, such as movie studios and programmers of non-live content. The VOD importer server158can transmit the VOD content to the AQT switch152, and the AQT switch152, in turn, can communicate the material to the CFT switch130via the private network110. The VOD content can be stored at one or more servers, such as the VOD server136.

When a user issues a request for VOD content to a set-top box device116,124, the request can be transmitted over the private access network166to the VOD server136, via the CFT switch130. Upon receiving such a request, the VOD server136can retrieve requested VOD content and transmit the content to the set-top box device116,124across the private access network166, via the CFT switch130.

In an illustrative embodiment, the live acquisition server154can transmit the television content to the AQT switch152, and the AQT switch152, in turn, can transmit the television content to the OMT switch160via the public network112. In this embodiment, the OMT switch160can transmit the television content to the TV2server162for display to users accessing the user interface at the TV2server162. For example, a user can access the TV2server162using the computer176coupled to the public network112.

As shown inFIG. 1, the system100can include a game application server168. The game application server168includes a processor170and a memory device172that is accessible to the processor170. The game application server168also includes a computer program174that is embedded within the memory device172. In a particular embodiment, the computer program174can include instructions to receive a request for a game from a set-top box device116,124. In an illustrative embodiment, the game can be selected by the user from a plurality of game applications that reside in the memory172of the game application server168.

In a particular embodiment, the computer program174can include instructions to retrieve previous game information associated with at least one user identity that is associated with the set-top box device116or124. For example, the computer program174can include instructions to query the subscriber and system store148via the private network110for account information associated with the first set-top box device116. In an illustrative embodiment, the account information can include one or more user identities that have been created by users at the set-top box device116. These user identities can be used by the game application server168to associate previous game information, such as scores or levels of play that each identified user has attained within the game, with particular users. The computer program174can also include instructions to provide the previous game information to the set-top box device and to allow one or more users to continue a game based on the previous game information.

In a particular embodiment, the game application server168can be coupled to the terminal server134. The game application server168runs one or more game applications and can communicate data to the first set-top box device116, for example, by transmitting the data to the terminal server134. The terminal server134transmits the data across the private access network166, via the CFT switch130, to the first modem114that is coupled to the first set-top box device116. Additionally, users can issue commands to the first set-top box device116, which the set-top box device116transmits across the private access network166via the first modem114to the CFT switch130. The CFT switch130transmits these commands to the terminal server134, which transmits them to game application server168. In this embodiment, a game requested by a user is operated entirely on the game application server168. The game application server168processes and executes commands received from users and transmits data corresponding to updated or new displays to the set-top box devices116,124. Moreover, the set-top box devices116,124process the data and render the corresponding display on the display devices118,126to which they are coupled.

In another embodiment, the game application server168can be coupled to the VOD server136. Moreover, the game application server168can execute one or more game applications and can communicate video to the first set-top box device116, for example, by transmitting the data to the VOD server136. The VOD server136can transmit the data across the private access network166, via the CFT switch130to a modem114,122that is coupled to a set-top box device116,124. Additionally, users can issue commands to a set-top box device116,124and the set-top box device116can transmit the commands across the private access network166via the first modem114to the CFT switch130. The CFT switch130transmits these commands to the VOD server136, which transmits them to game application server168. In this embodiment, a game requested by a user is operated entirely on the game application server168. The game application server168processes and executes commands received from users and transmits video content of updated or new displays to a set-top box device116,124. Moreover, a set-top box device116,124can transmit the video content associated with a game to a display device118,126coupled thereto.

In yet another embodiment, the game application server168can communicate with a set-top box116,124via the private access network166. A requested game can be downloaded to a set-top box116,124, such that the game is operated and user commands are processed at the set-top box device116,124. In this embodiment, only performance data is communicated back to the game application server168, in conjunction with, or independently of, the game application. In an alternative embodiment, individual levels, missions or game states can be downloaded from the game application server168to the set-top box device116,124. In this embodiment, new levels, etc., are downloaded upon the completion of previous ones.

Referring toFIG. 2, a method of delivering video games is shown. At block200, a request to use a game application is received from a set-top box device. In a particular embodiment, a user can issue the request to a server, such as a game application server, via a set-top box device. At block202, at least one user identity is determined to be associated with the set-top box device. In an illustrative embodiment, the game application server can query an information store that stores user identities via user accounts that correspond to various set-top box data. For example, where the server and set-top box device communicate over an IP network, the information store can include IPTV account information that is associated with an IP address of the set-top box device, data identifying a twisted pair connected to the set-top box device, an alphanumeric identifier of the set-top box device, other data that is suitable for associating a set-top box device with a user account, or any combination of these.

In an illustrative embodiment, the user identities associated with the set-top box device can be transmitted from the game application server to the set-top box device, at block204, and can be displayed via a display device, such as a television monitor. In this embodiment, a selection of a user identity can be received by the game application server from the set-top box device, at block206. In a particular embodiment, a selection of one or more additional user identities can also be received. For example, where two of the transmitted user identities played, but did not complete, a video chess game or a two-player version of Space Invaders, both players may wish to continue the previous game. In this example, two of the transmitted user identities would be selected.

Moving to decision step208, it can be determined whether a previous game is available for the selected user identity. In a particular embodiment, a computer program embedded within the game application server can include instructions to make this determination. If no previous games are available for the selected user identity, a new game can be started at block222. If one or more previous games are available for the selected user identity, the game application server can retrieve information from the previous game(s), at block210. Further, the information from the previous game(s) can be provided from the game application server to the set-top box device at block212. Previous game information can include scores, levels, game states, and the like, which indicate past performance of the selected user identity in the requested game. For example, previous game information can indicate that a user attained a score of 10,000 in a previous game; passed level 6 in a previous game; partially completed a mission in a previous game; had the second most poker chips in a previous game; and the like.

Prior game information can help the user to determine whether to continue a previous game or start a new game. In an illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for games played by a user during a certain time period, such as information for previous games played in the last fourteen days. In another illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for a certain number of previous games played by a user, such as the last five games played by the user.

In an illustrative embodiment, a user can be prompted at decision step214in order to determine whether the user wants to continue the previous game, e.g., based on the previous game information. When the user chooses to not continue a previous game, a new game can be started in any of the manners disclosed, as shown at block222. Conversely, when the user chooses to continue a previous game, the method proceeds to block218, and the selected prior game state can be provided to the set-top box device. At block220, the game is continued from the prior game state. For example, if a user completed a portion of level 6 in a mahjong game, and the user selected to continue that mahjong game, then the user would be returned to level 6 at a point immediately after the most recent play in that particular mahjong game.

Once it has been determined whether the user wishes to continue a previous game or start a new game, the game is provided by the game application server for use at the set-top box device, as shown at block224. While the game is played and after the game is over, information, such as scores, levels, and game states, is received by the game application server from the set-top box device, at block226. At block228, the game application server associates and stores information from the game use in conjunction with the user identity that requested the game. In an illustrative embodiment, this information can be stored in conjunction with the user identity within the game application, itself. In another illustrative embodiment, this information can be stored in conjunction with the user identity within an information store that is coupled to or embedded in the game application server. The method terminates at state230.

Both new and previous games can be delivered from the game application server to the set-top box device in a variety of ways. For example, the game application can be operated at the game application server, such that game commands issued by a player to the set-top box device are received and executed at the game application server. In this embodiment, the set-top box device can operate essentially like a terminal that receives video content from the game application for display at a display device. Game information, such as scores and the like, are calculated and stored at the game application server.

Alternatively, a copy or version of a game application can be downloaded to the set-top box device, such that the operation of the game application and the execution of all commands received from the player occur at the set-top box device. In this alternative embodiment, game information is calculated at the set-top box device and transmitted to the game application server for storage or for transmission to an information store. The information can also be stored directly at the set-top box device prior to and/or after transmission to the game application server.

In another embodiment, the game application server can transmit a portion of a game application to the set-top box device. For example, the game application server can transmit a single level of a mahjong game or a certain mission from a first-person shooter game. Commands received from a player for the portion of the game application are executed at the set-top box device. Once a player has completed the level or mission, performance data can be transmitted to the game application server, and the next level or mission can be downloaded to the set-top box device.

In yet another embodiment, the game application can be operated at the server, such that only commands and data are transmitted between the game application server and the set-top box device. In this embodiment, data associated with displaying the game can be transmitted to the set-top box device. The set-top box device can process the data via a computer program embedded within a memory portion of the set-top box device and render video associated with the game, based at least partially on the data received from the server. Game information, such as scores and the like, are calculated and stored at the game application server.

Referring toFIG. 3, a second embodiment of a method of delivering video games is shown. At block302, a request to use a game application is received from a set-top box device. For example, a user can issue the request via the set-top box device to a server, such as a game application server, that communicates with the set-top box device over a network. Moving to block304, the game application server can query an information store for an account that is associated with the set-top box device. The information store can be coupled to or embedded within the game application server, or the game application server can communicate with the information store via a network.

In an illustrative embodiment, the game application server and set-top box device can communicate over an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) network. In this embodiment, the information store can associate account information maintained by an IPTV service provider with the set-top box device, such as a user account number, data identifying a twisted pair connected to the set-top box device, an alphanumeric identifier of the set-top box device, any other data that is suitable for associating a set-top box device with a user account, or any combination of these. The information store can provide the account information to the game application server in response to a query for information associated with the set-top box device that has requested the game.

In a particular embodiment, at decision step306, it is determined whether the account associated with the set-top box device includes any user identities. In a particular embodiment, a computer program embedded within the game application server can include instructions to make this determination. If the account does not include any user identities, the method continues to decision step308, and the user is prompted to create one or more user identities for the account. If the user does not want to create any user identities, the method terminates at state348. On the other hand, if an indication to create one or more user identities is received at the game application server from the set-top box device, the user can be prompted for one or more user identities, as shown at block310. The one or more user identities can be received at the game application server from the set-top box device at block312and can be stored at block314. The user identities can be stored by the game application server or at an information store coupled to or embedded in the game application server. Thereafter, the method moves to block332, and a new game can be started at block334, in any of the manners disclosed.

Returning to decision step306, if it is determined that one or more user identities are included in or associated with the account, the method proceeds to block316, and the user identities can be transmitted by the game application server to the set-top box device for display at a display device, such as a television monitor. Moving to block318, a selection of a particular user identity, from the user identities transmitted to the set-top box device, is received by the game application server from the set-top box device. In a particular embodiment, a selection of one or more additional user identities can also be received from the set-top box device.

Moving to decision step320, it is determined whether previous games are associated with the selected user identity. In a particular embodiment, a computer program embedded within the game application server can include instructions to make this determination. If no previous games are associated with the selected user identity, the method continues to block332, and a new game is started in any of the manners disclosed. Conversely, if one or more previous games are associated with the selected user identity, the method proceeds to block322, and information from the previous games associated with the selected user identity is retrieved. In a particular embodiment, the previous game information can be retrieved from the game application. At block324, the previous game information is communicated from the game application server to the set-top box device.

Previous game information can include scores, levels, game states, and the like, which indicate past performance of the selected user identity in the requested game. For example, previous game information can indicate that a user attained a score of 10,000 in a previous game; passed a particular skill level in a previous game; partially completed a mission in a previous game; had the second most poker chips in a previous game; and the like. Prior game information can help the user to determine whether to continue a previous game or start a new game. In an illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for games played by a user during a certain time period, such as information for previous games played in the last fourteen days. In another illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for a certain number of previous games played by a user, such as the last five games played by the user.

Proceeding to decision step326, the user is prompted with an option to continue the previous game(s) associated with the previous game information. For example, the user can be given the choice to continue a previous game or to start a new game. In a particular embodiment, the user can be prompted with a list of one or more previous games and can be prompted to choose whether to start a new game or to restart a particular prior game from the list. If the user selects the option to continue a previous game, the method then continues to block330, and the selected previous game is continued. For example, if a user completed a portion of the third mission in a first-person shooter game, and the user selected to continue that game, then the user would be returned to the third mission at a point immediately after the most recent play in that game or to a point at which the user saved the game state. If the user does not select the option to continue a previous game, a new game is started at block332, in any of the manners disclosed.

After the user indicates whether to continue a previous game or start a new game, the method continues to block334, and the previous game or new game is provided for play at the set-top box device. In a particular embodiment, at decision step336, the game state is monitored and it is determined whether the new or continued game is over. When the game is not over, the method returns to block334, and game play continues. Alternatively, when the game is over, the method proceeds to decision step338, and it is determined whether the final score of the game is a high score for the user or for all users. If the final score is not a high score for the user or for all users, the method proceeds to decision step342, and it is determined whether the game state from the game should be saved in conjunction with the user identity. In a particular embodiment, the user is prompted in order to determine whether to save the game. Alternately, the game can include a user-selectable setting that indicates that all games are to be saved after completion.

At decision step342, if the user does not want to save the game state, the method terminates at state348. On the other hand, if the user wants to save the game state, the method moves to block344, and game state information is received at the game application server from the set-top box via a network. This information, which can include scores, levels, game states, and the like, is associated with the user identity and stored at block346. In an illustrative embodiment, this information can be stored with the user identity by the game application, itself. In another illustrative embodiment, this information can be stored in conjunction with the user identity within an information store that is coupled to or embedded in the game application server. The method terminates at state348.

Returning to decision step338, when the final score is a high score for the user or for all users, the method proceeds to block340and the high score is displayed with the user identity, as shown further inFIG. 9. Thereafter, the method proceeds to decision step342and continues as described.

Referring toFIG. 4, a third embodiment of a method for delivering video games is shown. At block400, a request to use a game application is received from a set-top box device. For example, a user can issue the request via the set-top box device to a server, such as a game application server, that communicates with the set-top box device over a network. In a particular embodiment, at block402, the game application server can query an information store for an account that is associated with the set-top box device. The information store can be coupled to or embedded within the game application server, or the game application server can communicate with the information store via a network.

In an illustrative embodiment, the game application server and the set-top box device can communicate over an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) network. In this embodiment, the information store can associate account information maintained by an IPTV service provider with the set-top box device, such as a user account number, data identifying a twisted pair connected to the set-top box device, an alphanumeric identifier of the set-top box device, any other data that is suitable for associating a set-top box device with a user account, or any combination of these. The information store can provide the account information to the game application server in response to a query for information associated with the set-top box device that has requested the game.

In a particular embodiment, each account can include one or more user identities that the user has created. Moving to block404, the game application server can provide a list of user identities to the set-top box device for display at a display device, e.g., a television monitor. At block406, a selection of a particular user identity from the list is received at the game application server from the set-top box device. At decision step408, it is determined whether the user with the selected user identity previously played the requested game in a room. In a particular embodiment, a computer program embedded within the game application server can include instructions to make this determination. A room can include an online forum in which multiple users can play a game simultaneously and compete against each other or as a team, while communicating via either separate set-top box devices or the same set-top box device.

If it is determined that the user did not previously play the requested game in a room, the method proceeds to block416, and the game application server retrieves information from one or more previous games that are associated with the selected user. In a particular embodiment, the previous game information can be retrieved from the game application. At block418, the previous game information is communicated from the game application server to the set-top box device for display at a display device.

Previous game information for a user not playing within a room can include scores, levels, game states, and the like, which indicate past performance of the selected user identity in the requested game. For example, previous game information can indicate that a user attained a score of 10,000 in a previous game; passed a certain skill level in a previous game; partially completed a mission in a previous game; had the second most poker chips in a previous game; and the like. Prior game information can help the user to determine whether to continue a previous game or start a new game. In an illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for games played by a user during a certain time period, such as information for previous games played in the last fourteen days. In another illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for a certain number of previous games played by a user, such as the last five games played by the user.

Alternatively, at decision step408, when it is determined that the selected user previously played the requested game in a room, the method proceeds to decision step410and the selected user can be given the choice of playing the game in the room again. If the user chooses to not play the game within the room, the method proceeds to block416. Returning to decision step410, when the user chooses to join the room, the method proceeds to block412, and information is retrieved from a previous game associated with all users in the room. This information can be provided to the set-top box device at block414. In a particular embodiment, the additional players also have user identities that can be associated with other set-top box devices. For example, each additional player can request the game from a separate set-top box device and choose to join the same room. Information for one or more previous games played by all players in the room can then be provided to the set-top box device of each player. In this way, all players in the room can see the previous performance of all players in the room, while using separate set-top box devices.

Previous game information for users playing within a room can include scores, levels, game states, and the like, which indicate past performance of users in the room in the requested game. For example, previous game information can indicate the score that each user in the room attained; the level that each user or team of users completed in a previous game; the mission that each user or team of users had partially completed in a previous game; the number of poker chips that each player had in a previous game; and the like. Prior game information can help the users to determine whether to continue a previous game or start a new game. In an illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for games played by users in the room during a certain time period, such as information for previous games played in the last fourteen days. In another illustrative embodiment, previous game information can include information for a certain number of previous games played by users in the room, such as the last five games played by the users.

Moving to decision step420, it is determined whether to continue a previous game for which information has been provided. For example, the selected user can be given the choice to continue a previous game or to start a new game. In a particular embodiment, if the user decides to continue a previous game, the method proceeds to decision step422, and other users in the room can be prompted to agree to continue the previous game. When the other users agree to continue the previous game, the method moves to block424, and the previous game is continued. Further, the previous game is provided for use at-block428. Returning to decision step422, if the user decides not to continue a previous game, a new game is started at block426. Additionally, at decision step422, if one or more other users decide not to continue a previous game, a new game is started at block426.

After the user decides whether to continue a previous game or start a new game, the method continues to block428and the game is provided for use at the set-top box device. While the game is played and after the game is over, information, such as scores, levels, and game states, may be received at a remote network site from the set-top box device, at block430. At block432, the information from the game use is associated with the user identity of the user that requested the game and this information is stored. In an illustrative embodiment, this information can be stored in conjunction with the user identity by the game application. In an illustrative embodiment, this information can be stored by an information store that is coupled to or embedded within the network game application server. The method terminates at state434.

Referring toFIG. 5, a method of receiving video games is shown. At block500, the method includes issuing a request for a video game. In a particular embodiment, a set-top box device can issue the request to an application server over a network, such as an IPTV network. As shown at block502, the set-top box device can receive a list of one or more user identities from the game application server for display at a display device. The user identities can be associated, for example, with an account that corresponds to the set-top box device that issued the request for the game. In an illustrative embodiment, the game application server can query an information store that stores user identities associated with user accounts that correspond to various set-top box data. For example, where the server and set-top box device communicate over an IP network, the information store can include IPTV account information that is associated with an IP address of the set-top box device, data identifying a twisted pair connected to the set-top box device, an alphanumeric identifier of the set-top box device, other data that is suitable for associating a set-top box device with a user account, or any combination of these.

At block504, the set-top box device receives a selection of one or more of the listed user identities from a user. An example of the interaction and selection of a user identity is shown further inFIG. 6. The set-top box device can transmit the selection of the one or more user identities to the game application server, at block506.

At block508, the set-top box receives an indication that one or more previous games have been saved for the one or more selected user identities from the game application server. Moving to block510, information relating to the previous game(s) is received. The information can include scores, levels, game states, or other information indicating results or progress associated with the one or more selected user identities that were transmitted at block506. At block512, the previous game information is transmitted to a display device, such as a television monitor.

Continuing to decision step514, the set-top box device prompts the user with an option to continue one of the previous games. An example of the interaction and selection of a previous game is shown further inFIG. 7. When the user selects the option to continue a previous game, the method proceeds to block516, and the selection to continue the previous game is transmitted to the server from the set-top box device. The method then proceeds to block518and the game is received at the set-top box device from the game application server for continued play. The game can then be displayed at the display device at block520. The method ends at state534.

Returning to decision step514, if the user decides not to continue a previous game, the method proceeds to block522and the selection to start a new game is submitted from the set-top box device to the game application server. After a selection to start a new game is submitted by the set-top box device to the game application server, the game is received at the set-top box device for play at block524. The set-top box can display the game at a display device, such as a television monitor, at block526.

As shown at block526, information, such as scores, levels, and game states, may be transmitted to the server from the set-top box device while the game is played, after the game is over, or both while the game is played and after the game is over. In a particular embodiment, the information can be stored by a game application in association with the user identities transmitted at block506.

In a particular embodiment, once the game is over, the set-top box device can display an indication that the game has ended at block530. The indication can be generated by the set-top box device or received by the set-top box device from the game application server. Moving to decision step532, the user can be prompted to play the game again. The interaction and selection of the user with such a prompt is shown further inFIG. 8. If the user wants to play again, the method returns to decision step514and continues as described. In a particular embodiment, the user can continue the game that just ended. Returning to decision step532, if the user does not want to play again, the method terminates at state534.

Both new and previous games can be delivered from the game application server to the set-top box device in a variety of ways. For example, the game application can be operated at the game application server, such that game commands issued by a player to the set-top box device are received and executed at the game application server. In this embodiment, the set-top box device can operate essentially like a terminal that receives video content from the game application for display at a display device. Game information, such as scores and the like, are calculated and stored at the game application server.

Alternatively, a copy or version of a game application can be downloaded to the set-top box device, such that the operation of the game application and the execution of all commands received from the player occur at the set-top box device. In this alternative embodiment, game information is calculated at the set-top box device and transmitted to the game application server for storage or for transmission to an information store. The information can also be stored directly at the set-top box device prior to and/or after transmission to the game application server.

In another embodiment, the game application server can transmit only a portion of a game application to the set-top box device. For example, the game application server can transmit a single level of a mahjong game or a certain mission from a first-person shooter game. Commands received from a player for the portion of the game application are executed at the set-top box device. Once a player has completed the level or mission, performance data can be transmitted to the game application server, and the next level or mission can be downloaded to the set-top box device.

In a particular embodiment, the steps of the methods described herein are executed in the order shown by the figures. In alternative embodiments, the steps may be executed in alternative sequences.

Referring toFIG. 6, an example of a graphical user interface600to receive video games via an IPTV system, e.g., the IPTV system100illustrated inFIG. 1, is shown. The graphical user interface600can be displayed on a display device, such as a television monitor602, via a set-top box device604. In a particular embodiment, the graphical user interface600includes a list of user identities606. In this embodiment, a plurality of user identities608that are associated with the set-top box device604can be included in the list606. A user can select one or more of the user identities608by manipulating a cursor. For example, the user can issue commands to the set-top box604, using a remote control device610, thereby manipulating a highlight bar612to settle on a particular user identity608. The particular user identity608can then be selected. In an illustrative embodiment, the selection can be made by manipulating a pointer618to select a select soft button614. If the user does not wish to select a user identity608, the user can manipulate the pointer618to select an exit soft button616.

Referring toFIG. 7, a second example of a graphical user interface700to receive video games is shown. The graphical user interface700can be displayed at the display device602via a set-top box device604. In a particular embodiment, the graphical user interface700can be shown after a user identity is selected from the list of user identities606shown inFIG. 6. The graphical user interface700includes a list of previous games702that a selected user704has played. In this embodiment, a the list702can include a date706of a previous game, the name708of the game played on the date706, and a previous game state710. A user can select one of the previous games from the list702by manipulating a cursor. For example, the user can issue commands to the set-top box604, using the remote control device610, thereby manipulating the highlight bar618to settle on a particular previous game on the list702. The previous game can then be selected from the list702. In an illustrative embodiment, the selection can be made by manipulating a pointer618to select the select soft button614. If the user does not wish to select a previous game, the user can manipulate the pointer618to select the exit soft button616or a new game soft button712.

Referring toFIG. 8, a third example of a graphical user interface800to receive video games is shown. The graphical user interface800can also be displayed at the display device602. In a particular embodiment, the graphical user interface800includes a ‘GAME OVER’ notification802. In this embodiment, if a high score was attained during a game, the high score can be shown in conjunction with the user identity of the user playing the game, as shown at804. The graphical user interface800can also include one or more commands806, which the user can select by manipulating a cursor. For example, the user can issue commands to the set-top box604, using a remote control device610, thereby manipulating a highlight bar612to settle on a particular command806, such as PLAY AGAIN, CONTINUE, or SAVE GAME. The particular command806can then be selected. In an illustrative embodiment, the selection can be made by manipulating the pointer618to select the select soft button614. If the user does not wish to select a command806, the user can manipulate the pointer618to select the exit soft button616.

Referring toFIG. 9, a fourth example of a graphical user interface900to receive video games is shown. The graphical user interface900can be displayed on the display device602. In a particular embodiment, the graphical user interface900includes a high score list902. The high score list902can include the name of a game904, for which high scores are shown. The list can also include a plurality of user identities904and the high scores906attained by each user identity. In an illustrative embodiment, high scores for a single user can be shown. In another illustrative embodiment, high scores among all players can be shown. If the user wishes to exit the high score graphical user interface900, the user can manipulate the pointer618to select the exit soft button616.

In a particular embodiment, the graphical user interfaces600,700,800and900are separate graphical user interfaces. Alternatively, the graphical user interfaces600,700,800and900illustrate different screen shots of a single primary graphical user interface.

Referring toFIG. 10, an illustrative embodiment of a general computer system is shown and is designated1000. The computer system1000, or any portion thereof, may be embedded in a set-top box device, game application server, information store, or any combination of these, as shown inFIG. 1, and can include a set of instructions that can be executed to cause the computer system1000to perform any one or more of the methods or computer based functions disclosed herein. The computer system1000, or a portion thereof, may operate as a standalone device or may be connected, e.g., using a network, to other computer systems or peripheral devices.

In a networked deployment, the computer system may operate in the capacity of a server or as a client user computer in a server-client user network environment, or as a peer computer system in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The computer system1000can also be implemented as or incorporated into various devices, such as a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile device, a palmtop computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a communications device, a wireless telephone, a land-line telephone, a control system, a camera, a scanner, a facsimile machine, a printer, a pager, a personal trusted device, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any other machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. In a particular embodiment, the computer system1000can be implemented using electronic devices that provide voice, video or data communication. Further, while a single computer system1000is illustrated, the term “system” shall also be taken to include any collection of systems or sub-systems that individually or jointly execute a set, or multiple sets, of instructions to perform one or more computer functions.

As illustrated inFIG. 10, the computer system1000may include a processor1002, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. Moreover, the computer system1000can include a main memory1004and a static memory1006that can communicate with each other via a bus1008. As shown, the computer system1000may further include a video display unit1010, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid state display, or a cathode ray tube (CRT). Additionally, the computer system1000may include an input device1012, such as a wireless keyboard, and a cursor control device1014, such as a mouse. Further, the computer system1000can include a wireless input device1015, e.g., a remote control device. The computer system1000can also include a disk drive unit1016, a signal generation device1018, such as a speaker or remote control, and a network interface device1020. In one embodiment, the computer system100can be a set-top box device system that receives commands from a remote control and transmits the commands to a client-facing tier of an IPTV system via a private access network.

In a particular embodiment, as depicted inFIG. 10, the disk drive unit1016may include a computer-readable medium1022in which one or more sets of instructions1024, e.g. software, can be embedded. Further, the instructions1024may embody one or more of the methods or logic as described herein. In a particular embodiment, the instructions1024may reside completely, or at least partially, within the main memory1004, the static memory1006, and/or within the processor1002during execution by the computer system1000. The main memory1004and the processor1002also may include computer-readable media.

In an alternative embodiment, dedicated hardware implementations, such as application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays and other hardware devices, can be constructed to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications that may include the apparatus and systems of various embodiments can broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. One or more embodiments described herein may implement functions using two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with related control and data signals that can be communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit. Accordingly, the present system encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, the methods described herein may be implemented by software programs executable by a computer system. Further, in an exemplary, non-limited embodiment, implementations can include distributed processing, component/object distributed processing, and parallel processing. Alternatively, virtual computer system processing can be constructed to implement one or more of the methods or functionality as described herein.

The present disclosure contemplates a computer-readable medium that includes instructions1024or receives and executes instructions1024responsive to a propagated signal, so that a device connected to a network1026can communicate voice, video or data over the network1026. Further, the instructions1024may be transmitted or received over the network1026via the network interface device1020.

While the computer-readable medium is shown to be a single medium, the term “computer-readable medium” includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable medium” shall also include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that cause a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

In a particular non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, the computer-readable medium can include a solid-state memory such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more non-volatile read-only memories. Further, the computer-readable medium can be a random access memory or other volatile re-writable memory. Additionally, the computer-readable medium can include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a disk or tapes or other storage device to capture carrier wave signals such as a signal communicated over a transmission medium. A digital file attachment to an e-mail or other self-contained information archive or set of archives may be considered a distribution medium that is equivalent to a tangible storage medium. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include any one or more of a computer-readable medium or a distribution medium and other equivalents and successor media, in which data or instructions may be stored.

In conjunction with the configuration of structure described herein, the system and method disclosed can be used to deliver video games to set-top box devices over networks. The association of set-top box devices with user accounts and the association of previous game information with user identities included in such accounts allows users to receive robust previous game information and to continue previous game states, without the need for large memory stores at the set-top box device and without having to enter authentication information via their television monitors.

In accordance with various embodiments, the methods described herein may be implemented as one or more software programs running on a computer processor. Dedicated hardware implementations including, but not limited to, application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays and other hardware devices can likewise be constructed to implement the methods described herein. Furthermore, alternative software implementations including, but not limited to, distributed processing or component/object distributed processing, parallel processing, or virtual machine processing can also be constructed to implement the methods described herein.

It should also be noted that software that implements the disclosed methods may optionally be stored on a tangible storage medium, such as: a magnetic medium, such as a disk or tape; a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a disk; or a solid state medium, such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more read-only (non-volatile) memories, random access memories, or other re-writable (volatile) memories. The software may also utilize a signal containing computer instructions. A digital file attachment to e-mail or other self-contained information archive or set of archives is considered a distribution medium equivalent to a tangible storage medium. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include a tangible storage medium or distribution medium as listed herein, and other equivalents and successor media, in which the software implementations herein may be stored.

Although the present specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in particular embodiments with reference to particular standards and protocols, the invention is not limited to such standards and protocols. For example, standards for Internet and other packet switched network transmission (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP/IP, HTML, HTTP) represent examples of the state of the art. Such standards are periodically superseded by faster or more efficient equivalents having essentially the same functions. Accordingly, replacement standards and protocols having the same or similar functions as those disclosed herein are considered equivalents thereof.

The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that utilize the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter.

The above disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments, which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present invention is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.