U.S. Pat. No. 9,205,329

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, various details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the invention. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances well known methods, algorithms, procedures, components and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention. Further, the present invention utilizes computer software, scripting, and digital animation for which a person of ordinary skill in the art of computer software and computer networking and design, utilizing the teachings of the present invention, will be able to write software or create scripts and animation that will implement the features and elements of the present invention.

In contrast to the prior art, the present invention provides the user of an electronic game, in other words, a “game player” with a single electronic game that can be played on a portable handheld game playing unit having relatively simple user input controls and on a higher order computer or Internet driven virtual world. The electronic game of the present invention originally is presented and operates within a flat panel display in two dimensions (in “2D”) where the game player/owner can name and identify the virtual character defined and generated therein as well as customize its features and characteristics.

The portable game playing unit also has the ability to connect to the Internet through a computer (known in the art as “going on-line”) where the game will reversibly translate its user controlled virtual character or characters to a higher order on-line virtual world. Moreover, when translated on-line the virtual characters of the present invention are altered in form, appearance, and nature in a manner that allows the virtual character to function in a familiar or known, player controlled manner, yet also to look and function appropriately and effectively in three dimensions (in “3D”) with the added element of depth acquired in the translation from the portable game playing unit. This higher order translation is reversed when the virtual character translates back to the portable game playing unit. However, any changes to the characteristics of the virtual character persist in translation.

The virtual character moves from the display of the portable game playing unit and the 3D on-line virtual world on the computer screen and back in response to game progression. As used herein, the term “game progression” includes broadly any event related to the game and its play including input play commands from a user that has the direct or indirect affect of moving the character between the portable unit and the computer display, or in response to events which are generated by the computing mechanism within the portable unit or by the web server which generates the on-line world, or in response to a command from the user to close a browser window or shut down or power off either the portable unit or the computer.

In the preferred embodiment it is contemplated that when the virtual character translates from the portable unit to the on-line virtual world and back, the virtual character will cease being displayed on one display and will begin being displayed on the other display. The character therefore effectively moves between displays and their respective computing mechanisms, and thus it can be said that the character moves or migrates from the portable unit to the on-line world on the computer and back again. However, it is not strictly necessary that when the character translates or moves to a different screen that the character actually disappears from the prior screen. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the virtual character need not appear exactly the same on both displays. Indeed, due to graphical limitations of the portable unit display and possible variations in rendering, the character would probably appear slightly differently as it moves from one display to the other, but would still be recognizable as representing the same virtual character. Other variations in are possible, such as the character putting on special 3D glasses as it moves to the 3D world, or putting on special clothing, or changing shape or color as it moves from one display to the other. All such variations and similar or equivalent variations are contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention in which a virtual character moves or translates from one game playing unit to another game playing unit.

It is not strictly necessary in the practice of the invention that the two hardware devices be a portable unit that generates 2D graphics and animation, and a web server coupled to a client computer over a network such as the Internet and that generates 3D graphics and animation. Other types of hardware are possible. For example, instead of being a portable handheld unit, the first unit could be a freestanding video game unit, or a desktop computer running standalone game software. Similarly, the second unit could be nearly any type of game unit. Still further, the first unit could generate 3D graphics and animation, although in the presently preferred embodiment the first unit generates only 2D graphics and animation in an effort to make the unit more widely affordable. Although the second unit could theoretically generate only 2D graphics and animation, due to the relatively low cost of server computing power the web server in the preferred embodiment generates relatively rich 3D graphics and animation. Many variations are possible as will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art from reading the disclosure of the present invention. Throughout this disclosure the terms “2D” and “3D” will be used for the sake of convenience and shorthand to refer to the graphics displayed on the portable unit and the graphics displayed on the computer screen operatively connected to the web server according to the illustrative embodiment. This use of the terms “2D” and “3D” for convenience and shorthand sake should not be construed as limiting in any way the breadth or scope of the present invention.

It should be emphasized that the present invention does more than simply move or transfer the virtual character from one game environment to another. Instead, the present invention “translates” the virtual character to alter the form, appearance, and nature of the virtual character from the exemplary 2D virtual world of the portable game playing unit to the exemplary higher order 3D virtual world of the computer driven Internet environment. As a result, when on-line the virtual characters of the present invention are generated and presented in 3D with enhanced visual features including shading and depth along with the ability to act and move in three dimensions. When the characters translate back to their respective portable game playing units this process is reversed and the characters are generated and presented in the portable game playing unit to look and function appropriately in two dimensions while retaining any changes to their characteristics that they acquired while in three dimensions. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, when translated back to 2D, some characteristics including possessions and abilities may have to be altered to adapt to the limitations imposed by removing a higher order feature such as a third dimension in order to operate in a flat, 2D world.

Thus, when on-line a virtual character of the present invention is visually and functionally enhanced in a manner to include all the appropriate virtual character features, elements, and characteristics for whichever type of higher order on-line operating environment it is in. In this exemplary embodiment the higher order changes involve switching from 2D to 3D and back. However, it is within the scope of the present invention to have higher order translations involving something other than added dimension. For example, a virtual character might translate to or from a virtual world having gravity or no gravity. In this manner, the present invention provides a game player with a portable game playing unit generated 2D virtual character that also can translate to be generated and function in a persistent, yet ever changing, 3D virtual world hosting a massively multi-player on-line role-playing game where other individual players controlling their own virtual characters at locations remote from one another can participate, interact, and compete with one another on-line, simultaneously.

As a result, the present invention provides a game player with a full color, interactive, user controlled, virtual character that can leave the 2D portable game playing environment and enter a 3D virtual world on-line where other user controlled virtual characters can interact with each other and with the game playing environment to, among other things, explore, play games, compete, solve puzzles, chat, and acquire possessions that can be used, sold, or traded between virtual characters and that will translate back to the respective 2D handheld or portable game playing units defining each virtual character. In other words, the present invention provides an electronic game where 2D game unit defined virtual characters can change their individual characteristics through 3D interaction on-line and bring these changes back to the respective 2D portable game playing units. These enhanced and modified characteristics are translated to function in 2D so that the characteristics and changes persist in the portable game playing units and will translate with the virtual characters to and from the 2D and 3D environments.

Moreover, the game playing units of the present invention are not restricted to solo or one user game play when not connected on-line. Instead, because the portable game playing units of the present invention are provided with one or more communication ports such as wireless infra red (IR) ports or USB ports they can communicate with other portable units and interact with their respective 2D characters on each other's displays as well as with computer networks defining 3D virtual worlds, to chat, compete, practice, train, share, and engage in other activities that may change, modify, or enhance one or more of their respective individual characteristics.

Whenever a respective virtual character leans or acquires a new or changed characteristic, skill, or possession through individual or interactive game play, the changes will “persist” or stay with the respective character, even when the portable game playing unit is turned off or the character is interacting with another game playing unit. The same is true on-line when the virtual character is interacting in 3D with many other virtual characters. Any changes to the character's individual characteristics made while playing on-line or linked to other game players, or even during solo play, will persist with the character when it is generated and presented in the portable game playing unit or when it translates back into 3D or connects with another portable game playing unit.

Thus, with the unique capabilities of the present invention, changes to a virtual character's characteristics, possessions, or even new characteristics that develop through game playing use and through interaction with the virtual environments and with other user driven virtual characters in either the 2D or 3D game operating environment will persist and translate with the virtual character each time it translates to or from the portable handheld operating environment to the computer or Internet environment. In this manner, the present invention provides the game player with a virtual character or companion that can learn through experience, be trained, and modified to develop its functions and capabilities in new directions as well as to acquire or dispose of items and possessions in either the portable 2D virtual world or the higher order or 3D on-line operating environment and these changes and acquisitions will persist with the virtual character whenever it translates to the other operating environment or back.

In a broad aspect, the present invention accomplishes these beneficial results with a game system that includes a portable game playing unit having a relatively inexpensive, yet full color 2D visual or video display such as a liquid crystal display or LCD. Exemplary portable game playing units within the scope and teachings of the present invention include handheld units having sufficient memory and processing capabilities to be specifically dedicated to a single electronic game or to multiple electronic games, cellular or wireless telephones, personal digital assistants (“PDAs”), laptop computers, portable video players, portable TVs, electronic musical instruments, and the like, as long as the portable unit has a video display and at least one player input control, preferably four or more toggles or buttons or a touchscreen, a computing mechanism and software for generating a virtual character on the display, and a communications port for connecting the portable game playing unit to a computer having a video screen of its own.

When the portable game playing unit is connected to the computer, preferably the computer is coupled to a computer network of multiple users which can be a limited private internal network or “intranet” like that of an office or group of friends or an external network such as the Internet, a global network of remotely located linked computers numbering in the millions. The game system of the present invention also includes a server or web server that is typically a computer with an operating system and specific server software enabling the server coupled to the computer network to process requests and to deliver and receive data from the other computers connected to the network and that is programmed to generate and present a portable game playing unit defined virtual character in higher order animation on a computer screen linked to the portable game playing unit.

The software of the present invention game system includes additional software programming at least the portable game playing unit computing mechanism and the server, and, if desired, the connected computer such that the virtual character of the portable game playing unit will visually translate from the portable game playing unit display to the computer screen and back to the portable game playing unit display in response to commands input to the game system by the player. When the virtual character translates from the game playing unit display to the computer screen it actually leaves the display by, for example, walking out of the display and onto the computer screen in its altered or translated form, or by going on vacation from the portable game playing unit and flying onto the computer screen while the on-line connections and processing are completed and then entering the higher order on-line virtual world once this is done. In this manner the electronic game of the present invention provides the game player with a seamless visual translation from the 2D portable game playing unit virtual world to the higher order or 3D server generated on-line virtual world.

For example, in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, when the virtual character moves from the flat, 2D world of the portable game playing unit display where it can move side-to-side and up-and-down, to the 3D virtual world of the on-line massively multi-player role-playing game the visual presentation of the virtual character is expanded in quality and character to include the added dimension of depth so that while it is displayed on the computer screen the game player can make the virtual character act and move in three dimensions including moving into and out of the visual field presented on the screen as well as side-to-side and up-and-down.

Further, the virtual character exhibits enhanced 3D visual characteristics including shading and depth as well as more complex 3D movements as it operates within the 3D on-line virtual world and interacts with the virtual world environment and with other 3D virtual characters in the massively multi-player on-line role-playing game. What is more, because the web server defined virtual world is much richer and dynamic that what is possible in the 2D world of the portable game playing unit, additional and unique opportunities are available on-line that are not available in the portable game playing unit. These additional opportunities can include updates, new virtual characters and other software downloads that can expand and enhance the characteristics, features, and abilities of a virtual character.

When the virtual character translates back to the original operating environment generated by the portable game playing unit and returns to the 2D perspective of the game playing unit display the higher order translation to 3D is reversed and the virtual character visually translates back into 2D with the appropriate visual characteristics and abilities to act and move in the limitations of a flat 2D world. When viewed on the 2D display the exemplary virtual character appears flattened, without perspective or depth and is limited to relatively simple left-right, up-down, or diagonal movements on the display. There it can enter and leave specific rooms or spaces in 2D through doors or passageways, open doors, closets, cupboards and the like, and select and return items that it can use or activate. It also can play games, eat, sleep, go places, and train, learn or acquire skills through game play in 2D.

When the first virtual character of the present invention is on the computer screen, the character acts within the higher order computer web server defined and generated multi-player virtual world according to commands input by the player into the portable game playing unit or, in the alternative, into the connected computer. The same is true for any other virtual characters acting in the multi-player virtual world on-line. Each of these additional game characters is controlled on-line by a second or an additional game player inputting commands into his or her respective portable game playing unit. While the virtual character is active in the multiple-player virtual world on-line it technically is inactive within the portable game playing unit. The way to reactivate the virtual character of the present invention within the portable game playing unit is to contact on-line and synchronize with the web server to transmit or “re-flash” character defining data to the portable game playing unit.

One of the added benefits that makes playing the electronic game of the present invention so rewarding for the game player is that the virtual characters of each game playing unit have at least one characteristic that can change during play of the game in either the 2D or the 3D world and that will persist with the respective virtual characters as they translate to and from the 2D portable game playing unit to the 3D on-line world and back. Characteristics can be changed with the present invention in a variety of ways including, without limitation, player controlled training of the virtual character, in effect, the character learning within the portable game playing unit or when on-line, or by the virtual character acquiring, earning, or receiving additional possessions or software downloads, or by using up, giving away, or otherwise disposing of possessions, or by the character changing physical appearance such as by visiting a salon and receiving a new haircut.

Similarly, in either the 2D or 3D game playing environment the characteristics of a virtual character can be changed through interaction with another virtual character controlled by a second game player through a second portable game playing unit either on-line or within linked portable game playing units. These interactions include, without limitation, things such as training, sharing, trading, competing, game playing, or combat. For example, a virtual character can earn medals through combat that will have hidden properties that add to the character's functional abilities or it can search for and find treasures with similar properties. Exemplary changeable characteristics can include, without limitation, at least one of a virtual character's physical abilities such as interests, training, learning, memory, strength, mobility, flexibility, and fighting, happiness, boredom, sleepiness, thirst, hunger; and, at least one of a virtual character's possessions such as food, water, credits, money, clothing, accessories, medals, and tools.

The present invention makes this possible by providing the game system with a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or database in the portable game playing unit for receiving and storing changes to the characteristics of the virtual character and for delivering or receiving these changes or updates to the varying characteristics along with the specific identity of the virtual character whenever it translates between the 2D or 3D worlds or when the portable game playing unit is turned off or put into a “sleep” mode where the unit is on, but inactive. This memory or database and the associated software can be distributed between the portable game playing unit and the web server so that each component of the game system can generate and present the specific virtual character with all of its characteristics in animation sequences appropriate for the respective game playing environments as directed by the game user.

The changeable characteristics of a character may be represented by a series of numerical values. Those values can include, for example, how hungry, happy, or bored a character is on a numerical scale such as 0 to FF hex, and which items a character possesses represented by a series of numerical codes, with each different code value representing a different item such as a shirt, a sword, etc. The changeable characteristics of a character are therefore represented by a set of parameters which may be stored in a parameter table. The parameters are stored in non-volatile memory such as flash EEPROM within the handheld unit. When the character moves to the on-line world, the software in the handheld unit, the computer, and the web server cooperate to copy the parameter values from the handheld unit's flash memory to the web server. The web server then uses those parameters as appropriate in visually generating the character, and in controlling game play. Typically although not strictly necessarily, during the character's adventures in the on-line world the character's characteristics will change, i.e., the parameters will be updated. When the character exits the on-line world and returns to the handheld unit, the updated parameters are passed to the handheld unit and stored therein within the flash memory. In other words, the handheld unit and the web server are synced. The character may exit the on-line world and return to the handheld unit by a number of methods, such as the character walking through a specific doorway, or by the user pressing a predefined command button, or simply closing the browser application. The details of syncing a portable device to a computer or a web server are well known, and a person of ordinary skill within the applicable art would be able to write software to implement the necessary functions. When the character returns to the portable unit, because the updated parameters are passed from the virtual world's server to the portable unit and stored in non-volatile memory, the updated characteristics persist even after the portable unit is powered down.

An exemplary portable game playing unit illustrating the principles of the present invention is shown inFIG. 1generally indicated by reference numeral10. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the portable game playing unit of the present invention is not limited to that shown and described herein. Alternative sizes, shapes, features and elements are within the scope of the present invention and may be selected as deemed appropriate for the intended audience. For purposes of illustration and explanation the embodiment of the present invention shown inFIG. 1is intended as a children's toy or game targeted to 6 to 12 year old boys and girls.

Though different children can each utilize their own identical portable game playing units10to play the exemplary children's game embodiment of the present invention or to interact with each other when linked or on-line, due to the ability of the present invention to differentiate and modify individual virtual characters, it is also contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention to design and produce different interacting portable game playing units having essentially the same features and operations but with different graphics targeted to either boys or girls or both, or to provide different characters to each intended audience so that individual game players can individualize their characters and differentiate themselves from each other.

For example, in an animal game targeted to both boys and girls the individual game playing units can define and generate a dog character or a cat character which can be selected for use and purchased by a boy or a girl game player. Alternatively, a girl's game could be produced with individual portable game playing units defining a blond girl, a brunette girl, or a redhead, or girls of different races and ethnicities. A boys game could be produced having virtual characters that appeal to boys such as monsters or machines.

InFIG. 1, portable game playing unit10is a shown as a generally rectangular housing12configured to be manipulated or held by both hands of a game player or to be set upon a flat surface or table. Housing12is provided with a display panel14. Display14is shown as a flat panel liquid crystal display or LCD display, though it is contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention to provide portable game playing unit10with any of a wide variety of flat panel video displays that are or will become available and that can provide at least a two dimensional image for the game player to view. As richer graphics generating capabilities and displays become more economically feasible for the portable game playing unit10, those more advanced graphics and displays can be substituted.

Preferably, display14will be a full color video display, though black and white or even high definition digital video displays may be utilized to practice the present invention. Exemplary display14is a low-cost color display based on a two bit grayscale per pixel and is appropriate for young children to use and enjoy. However, higher resolution video displays may be utilized and it is also within the scope of the present invention to provide more expensive or higher resolution displays as well as more than one display14in portable game playing unit10.

Also shown inFIG. 1are a plurality of exemplary user input controls distributed about the face of housing12and respectively designated16,18,20,22, and24. Input control16is a simple on/off switch enabling the game player to turn portable game playing unit10on or off. Input control18is a mute/pause switch enabling the game player to switch audio output on or off and to pause or restart game action as appropriate to various phases of game play. Input control20is an action button which the game player can press at appropriate times during game play to make a virtual character act on or operate an item or function such as opening a door, choosing or buying an item, eating, sleeping, or making a game move in a game like tic-tac-toe. Input control22is a menu key that a game player can use to bring up varying option menus within the game, before, during, or after game play to input different choices and selections. Input control24is a joy pad through which a game player can input directional choices and movements, or select from lists, as well as other operations requiring navigation through a variety of choices much like a conventional joystick on a computer.

Though five user input controls are illustrated in this exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown inFIG. 1, it is within the scope of the present invention that additional or fewer input controls may be utilized in portable game playing unit10. For example, display14may be provided with a touch screen user interface enabling the game player to input a variety of commands into portable game playing unit10through icon driven techniques involving pressing on different choices presented on display14. In this manner many of the alternative user input controls shown inFIG. 1can be eliminated, replaced, or added to. Alternatively, portable game playing unit10can be provided with internal motion sensors (not shown) to respond to moving portable game playing unit10in different directions to make control inputs by tilting or shaking portable game playing unit10in different directions.

InFIG. 1portable game playing unit10is shown having an optional audio feature designated as audio out26. Audio out26is an opening in the face of housing12configured to allow sonic waves generated as part of the game being played in portable game playing unit10to pass out of housing12into a game player's ears. In this exemplary embodiment of the present invention the sonic waves are generated by a piezoelectric device, although other sound generating devices as well as other locations or opening designs may be utilized within the scope of the present invention. For example, exemplary audio can be produced utilizing 44.1 Khz 16 bit stereo. WAV files, the type of audio found on CD's. Alternatively, using 4 or 5 bit mono samples at 8 hz is possible and may be appropriate for the present invention. Audio out26also may include a headphone jack or a connection to external speakers within the scope of the present invention. An audio mute function may be provided so that the user can turn off audible sounds emanating from the device.

Portable game playing unit10also is provided with a communications port and an IR port. For example, 38 khz Infrared receivers and emitters transmitting at a bit rate of 1000 bps using existing formats may be used in accordance with the teachings of the present invention for the IR port. Similarly, commercially available USB ports, connections, and the like may be used as a communications port and are intended to function in connection with existing connecting cables.

Preferably, the USB and IR ports are located on the back or sides of housing12so any USB connections or cables are conveniently available, but remain out of the way and thus are not shown inFIG. 1. The USB port may be covered or retracted when not in use to reduce the chances of contamination or damage. The USB port is for connecting to a portable computer (not shown) having its own screen, as known in the art. Placement of the IR port on the back of sides of housing12allows a wireless IR line of sight connection to be established between two game players each holding the respective portable game playing units10and simply facing each other.

In this manner, portable game playing unit10can communicate with a computer or with another portable game playing unit in order to interact with additional virtual characters available therein or on-line. To achieve these functions, portable game playing unit10is provided with a computing mechanism located inside housing12and including an executable flash memory, preferably at least one megabyte, and a read only memory, preferably at least 512 kilobytes, and software. The read-only memory will contain at least the shared code, bootstrap routines, and common sound effects for the virtual characters and for game play. The flash memory will contain at least some of the audio, artwork, and character specific data. Standard data types and associated values along with main character variables and their associated values as well as classes and types of items can be developed by those of ordinary skill in the art in combination with the teachings of the present invention. The same is true for any animated sequences or scripts that are required for the visual and audio display of the game in the portable game playing unit.

The software provides the programming for executing the steps of the present invention including defining, identifying, and generating a first virtual character on display14and to provide on-line interfacing through the connected computer, itself coupled to a computer network, and through unit-to-unit interfacing between IR linked game playing units. The software provides the programming to provide the first virtual character with the ability to translate out of portable game playing unit10display14and on to the computer screen, or back to portable game playing unit10and into display14in response to commands input by a game player or other game progression. When linked to another portable game playing unit10the first virtual character is presented on the display14of each linked portable game playing unit and remains under the control of the game player. The same is true for the second virtual character of the linked second portable game playing unit.

In contrast, when translated into the computer screen, web server software identifies and generates the virtual character in higher order animation within a multi-player web server generated virtual world including at least a second virtual character, yet the first virtual character remains controlled by the first player. The second virtual character is controlled by the second player at a remote location using a second personal computer and/or portable game playing unit. Similarly, the virtual world may simultaneously be populated by many characters controlled by respective players at respective remote locations, with interactions possible between and among all of the characters. The virtual world may also be populated by various characters whose actions are controlled by human moderators, or by the web server software rather than by humans.

In the preferred embodiment, the user's computer includes a special purpose browser application program that has been downloaded to the user's computer from the game provider's website. The web server then controls the graphics on the user's computer screen by generating and sending to the user's computer via the Internet the commands to the browser program to generate the virtual world graphics and animation on the screen, in a client-server relationship. Additionally, the web server software sends graphics and data files to the user's computer as the user's computer requests those files. Those graphics and data files may be downloaded as the user is playing the game on line. For example, when a character moves within the virtual world from a first room to a second room, the user's computer will need the graphics data for generating the second room, so the user's computer requests the necessary file(s) at that time from the web server.

The software of the present invention also is programmed such that the virtual character of portable game playing unit10has at least one characteristic that can change during play of the game. Each respective change to the at least one characteristic has the ability to affect the play of the character within portable game playing unit10or within the computer.

In this exemplary embodiment of the present invention, individual character characteristics, including any changes to those characteristics, are stored in the flash memory of portable game playing unit10. The software in portable game playing unit10also is programmed to send or deliver any updated or changed characteristics along with the virtual character identifying data to the connected computer and thereby to the server coupled to the computer network whenever the virtual character translates to the on-line virtual world, and to receive any changes to a characteristic whenever the virtual character translates back to portable game playing unit10.

Additionally, the flash memory remains stable when portable game playing unit10is turned off or when the virtual character becomes inactive or goes into a sleep mode so that changes to any virtual character characteristics remain or “persist” with the virtual character wherever and whenever it operates. If desired, the software can be programmed to restore default characteristic settings by resetting or rebooting the game or portable game playing unit10.

In this manner the present invention provides a game system where each individual handheld or portable game playing unit10defines and through user input operates or controls one or more respective user controlled virtual characters. These characters can be operated in the portable game playing unit game environment or can be translated from the portable unit to a computer driven or on-line Internet driven game environment, along with all persistent identification, training, possessions, and other characteristics and features that will be received, identified and stored by the web server enabling the web server to generate and present a higher order animation virtual character on the computer screen.

FIG. 2is a system diagram illustrating portable game units110and130being played in a standalone mode. First unit110has a first virtual character112, shown as a animal character, associated therewith and second unit130has a second virtual character132, shown as a monster character, associated therewith. In the illustrative embodiment units110and130have the respective characters112and132programmed into the units so as to be resident in the unit as those units are purchased by the consumer from a retail toy store. In the standalone mode, the unit need not be cabled to a computer, as illustrated by USB connectors114and134not being connected to the computers. In standalone mode each player manipulates the various controls associated with his unit to play various games and activities involving his virtual character.

FIG. 3is the system diagram ofFIG. 2but with the portable game units110and140cabled via game unit USB ports114and134, respectively, to USB ports122and142, respectively, of computers120to140. Those computers are also connected to network150such as the Internet which is a global computer network. Web server160is also connected to network150. As illustrated in the figure, the virtual characters having translated from the portable units110and130to the display screens of computers120and140, where the characters inhabit the multi-player on-line virtual world. Preferably each computer screen shows the virtual world from the perspective of the particular character to more completely personalize the on-line play experience. Thus, server160generates two different versions of the on-line world and sends those two versions to the respective players' computers. The on-line world can include any number of players and avatars, acting all within one room or within various rooms and virtual areas, within as complex and rich a virtual world as desired, within the computing capabilities of the server and the data throughput capabilities of network150and its various connections. In the figure, virtual characters112and132are shown on the computer screens and appear to have left units120and140completely, although it is not strictly necessary that the virtual characters disappear, or disappear completely, from the handheld units when they appear within the virtual world and interact therein.

When on-line the game player can continue to control the virtual character originally generated and defined by his or her portable game playing unit and now generated by the web server with the same or similar inputs and commands the game player is accustomed to through the portable game playing unit or through corresponding control inputs through the computer. There the virtual character will not only look familiar, though appropriately modified or translated for the higher order operating environment, but will act in a familiar and recognizable manner even though it will possess higher order functions and abilities. As a result, the game system of the present invention makes it possible for the game player to operate a game character in multiple electronic environments having different features and characteristics including higher order states and multiple dimensions without having to learn or relearn a new user interface in order to play on-line.

This provides the game user with a more rewarding experience than can be found with prior art electronic games. Rather than being restricted to operating in a limited 2D virtual world presented in a portable game playing unit flat display, users of the present invention can expand and enhance their gaming experiences by operating and controlling their originally game playing unit defined virtual characters in a 3D interactive virtual world populated with other independent characters controlled and operated by other individual game players using their own portable game playing units at remote locations throughout the nation or even throughout the world. In the higher order 3D interactive virtual world the game player is able to direct the specific virtual character to engage in a variety of activities and challenges that are not available within the portable game playing unit and that can add additional enhancements to the specific virtual character that will translate back to the portable game playing unit.

Adding to that experience, the exemplary game system of the present invention is programmed so that when the virtual character translates from portable game playing unit display14to the computer screen the virtual character visually walks off, out of, or leaves the 2D display and translates into 3D as it walks onto or enters the computer screen and into the 3D virtual world on-line. While this happens visually, the virtual character actually goes into a vacation mode within the portable game playing unit. As a result, when it translates from 2D to 3D the virtual character ceases to be displayed on portable game playing unit display14and subsequently is displayed only on the computer screen. Similarly, when the virtual character translates back from the computer screen to portable game playing unit display14, the virtual character ceases to be displayed in 3D on the computer screen and is displayed only in 2D on portable game playing unit display14. Though the individual changeable characteristics of the virtual characters of the present invention will be displayed differently when in 2D or when in a higher order state such as 3D, because the characteristics are persistent and translate with each character the specific characteristics persist with the character and are essentially identical whether or not the virtual character is active in the 2D portable world or in the 3D on-line networked world. Exemplary changeable characteristics within the scope and teachings of the present invention include, without limitation, at least one of the virtual character's physical abilities such as interests, training, learning, memory, strength, mobility, flexibility, fighting ability, happiness, boredom, sleepiness, thirst, hunger; and, at least one of the virtual character's possessions such as food, water, credits, money, clothing, accessories, medals, and tools. As an added benefit, it is also contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention to program the server software to not only manage, process, and respond to requests from the individual portable game playing units as well as from the computer network, but to authenticate a game player request before allowing the game player to access the multi-player virtual world or specific resources of the virtual world on the computer network. In this manner the present invention provides an added degree of security to the virtual world as well as to the privacy of the individual user data that may be accessible on the computer network.

An additional aspect of the present invention illustrated by the exemplary embodiment under discussion is a web server for playing the multi-player electronic game of the present invention on-line. The exemplary web server includes software that programs a computing mechanism to interact with one or more computers communicating with the web server computing mechanism. Each of these computers has a screen and is also connected to a portable game playing unit having a display for displaying at least one virtual character playing an electronic game.

The web server also includes a database or data repository to store or retain data relevant to playing the game of the present invention. The web server software programs the computing mechanism to manage and respond to requests and to deliver data to and from the database to and from the computer or to and from the connected portable game playing unit to allow the at least one virtual character to translate from the portable game playing unit display to the computer screen in response to commands input by a player. This translation includes the transmission of data identifying the specific virtual character as well as its changeable characteristics so that the web server software can identify, generate, and display the specific translated virtual character with its unique characteristics in a higher order animation format that is appropriate for the higher order on-line virtual world. The web server software also allows the virtual character presented on the computer screen to interact within the web server driven multi-player virtual world that include at least a second virtual character controlled by a second player.

The web server further includes software programming the computing mechanism to send a message that includes any changes to the characteristics of the virtual character to the portable game playing unit for storage and use therein so that they will persist when the game playing unit is turned off or the virtual character translates on-line. The software also is programmed to receive a message from the portable game playing unit that includes any changed characteristic of the virtual character so that these changes will persist and translate with the virtual character when it is on-line. These changeable characteristics include, without limitation, a virtual character's physical abilities such as interests, training, learning, memory, strength, mobility, flexibility, fighting ability, happiness, boredom, sleepiness, thirst, hunger; and, a virtual character's possessions such as food, water, credits, money, clothing, accessories, medals, and tools. Thus, in one aspect the present invention provides methods for allowing a virtual character defined by a portable game playing unit to change one or more of its characteristics through game play and to translate those changes to and from a virtual world. Such an exemplary method includes the steps of providing the portable game playing unit discussed above, connecting it on-line, and delivering the virtual character identifying data to the web server.

More specifically, the method includes the first step of providing a portable game playing unit with a computing mechanism including software for identifying and generating a virtual character of the game and that can interface on-line with a computer network to translate the virtual character from the portable game playing unit to the computer network and back. An exemplary portable game playing unit that will accomplish this includes a read only memory, preferably at least 512 kilobytes thereof, for storing the characteristics of the virtual character and an executable flash memory, preferably at least one megabyte thereof, for storing any changes or updates to the characteristics of the virtual character.

The second step includes connecting the portable game playing unit to a computer having its own screen and coupling the computer to a computer network such as the Internet having a second computing mechanism including software for generating and presenting an updated version of the virtual character on the computer screen. The third step includes delivering any updated data defining any changes to a characteristic of the virtual character from the computer network to the flash memory of the portable game playing unit.

In this manner it is possible for the virtual character of the present invention to develop and evolve through game play and to acquire changed, updated, or enhanced characteristics while on-line. Data encoding these modified characteristics are delivered to the flash memory so that they persist with the virtual character in either the portable game playing unit environment or on-line. These data are delivered with the virtual character each time the virtual character is translated to or from the on-line world.

To further enable a complete understanding of the present invention to those of ordinary skill in the art, a specific exemplary embodiment of the present invention designed for children will be discussed. The exemplary game is called MIUCHIZ™, designed, owned, and operated by MGA Entertainment, Inc. MIUCHIZ™ is a full color, totally interactive electronic game intended to be played by children. The game is played on a variety of individual portable game playing units, each unit defining its own virtual character. The virtual character of each individual portable game playing unit is designed to be a “companion” or friend that the game player can interact with, train, and share virtual experiences with. The virtual companions also can enter a family-friendly 3D virtual world on-line where children can have fun, play games, solve puzzles, chat, and interact with each other as well as further enhance the characteristics of their virtual characters.

More than just a game, MIUCHIZ™ is an educational tool featuring “train and feed them play” that teaches children cause and effect and how to be responsible and accountable for their actions as they take care of their virtual companions. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention there are a plurality of functionally similar, but differently appearing portable electronic game playing units featuring different graphics and different virtual characters designed to appeal to different game players such as boys, girls, or both.

For example, virtual characters specifically designed for game play by girls include young, fashion sensitive and contemporary female characters named “Bratz™” and can include specific characters such as “Cloe™” and “Yasmin™” with their own individual looks, personalities, and characteristics. Virtual characters specifically designed for game play by boys include individual monster characters named “Monsterz™” and specific characters named “Monsterz Fire™”, “Monsterz Rock™”, and “Monsterz Lure™”. Virtual characters specifically designed for game play by either boys or girls include individual animal characters named “Pawz™” such as “Dash™”, a virtual cat, and “Spike™”, a virtual dog. Though having widely different visual appearances and characteristics, each individual virtual character generally shares the same underlying generic software structure and content to enable their interaction and compatibility with other portable handheld game playing units and characters as well as on-line in a multi-player virtual world.

MIUCHIZ™ utilizes a portable game playing unit configured like the unit shown inFIG. 1. The game goes into a sleep mode when not in use, but the virtual character can be woken up by the game player who then can interact with and care for it through game play. Each game player can customize, personalize, or stylize their virtual character through changes in clothing, accessories, and hair color, as well as through training and learning. Through game play, players can earn credits or money to make purchases of goods and services for their virtual characters. The portable game playing units maintain a real time clock that enables hunger, boredom, and sleep patterns for the virtual character to be followed by the game player to make sure that his or her virtual character is fed, well rested, happy and interested. It is necessary for a game player to attend to these responsibilities in order to allow the virtual character to engage in other activities that may be more rewarding.

When connected to the Internet the exemplary game is able to receive upgrades and other downloads as well as to translate its virtual companion into and out of the higher order 3D on-line world known as “Planet Mion™”. Planet Mion™ is a computer generated rich and evolving virtual environment that continues to exist in real time even when the virtual companion character is off-line or asleep. Once on-line, game players are able to explore the varying scenery and environments of Planet Mion™, compete, play games, earn credits and training, as well as interact with other on-line MIUCHIZ™ characters. Additionally, Planet Mion™ includes an ongoing storyline about its mysterious origins that allows advanced game players to explore deeper into the mythology of MIUCHIZ™.

Each exemplary portable game playing unit10is provided with a menu accessible by pushing menu button22to display a full list of play options. These options include reviewing the contents of the virtual character's inventory of possessions, going to a mall or store to shop for upgrade or furniture, clothes, food, beverages, and the like, or going to a restaurant or a spa to eat or relax. Further, each exemplary portable game playing unit includes internal games that can be played by the virtual character under the game player's control on display14. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention these games include tic-tac-toe and rock-paper-scissors. Additional games are available on-line along with software upgrades.

The MIUCHIZ™ game has three different modes of game play, each using the same virtual character, which allow a game player to play alone, with friends, or on-line. In the single player mode the game player controls the virtual character that comes with and is defined and presented by portable game playing unit10on the 2D display14. There the game player can direct the virtual character to choose and play one of the available games, to eat, sleep, check out inventory, enter and leave different rooms and locations, shop, relax at a spa, train, and engage in other activities. When the virtual character gets hungry or sleepy or bored, the game player must respond to those needs accordingly by directing the virtual character to eat, sleep, or entertain itself, whatever is necessary to be able to perform other activities. Failure to do so will prevent the virtual character from engaging in many of the available activities.

In the two player or linked mode the game player is able to wirelessly interact with one or more friends linked through the IR ports in their respective portable game playing units. There each virtual character is displayed on each linked portable game playing unit display12as appropriate to game play. When linked the virtual characters can participate in the same activities in response to the same game player control inputs as in the single player mode, but with the added capacities of linked two player mode including the ability for the virtual characters to share with and compete against one another in linked games. Each game player is able to independently control his or her virtual character as both linked characters are presented on both displays during linked interaction.

In the on-line mode a player's portable game playing unit is plugged into or connected to a computer through the exemplary USB communications port using a USB cable. After successfully completing an original on-line registration as well as a subsequent authorization procedure, the virtual character can translate out of the 2D display and into the higher order 3D virtual world of Planet Mion™, along with the virtual character's possessions and characteristics. There, the game player can direct the now 3D virtual character to explore Planet Mion™, play games to earn credits, download software and items to his portable game playing unit, personalize and stylize the character's appearance, eat, sleep, and interact with other characters by chatting, solving puzzles, playing games and through other forms of competition. Directions for these functions and the associated game player control inputs can be supplied by the portable game playing unit or the web server.

In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, each portable game playing unit is provided with a computing mechanism preferably having a central processing unit (CPU), along with memory including read only memory and flash memory, and software producing a software implemented virtual character having certain features, powers, abilities, and personality traits that can affect character movement through a series of interconnected operational modes which can be moved between with combinations of certain character states or events. These include “time out”, personality or characteristic shifts, and external inputs such as portable game playing unit detection of USB insertion or input control button presses. With reference toFIG. 2, a generic flowchart for an exemplary virtual character is presented illustrating each mode and the common character data structure of the present invention. As those skilled in the art of software design will appreciate, numerical values are suggested for the implementation of these related character modes. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, 8 bit values giving a range of unsigned integers of 0 to 255 are used when possible. Other alternatives within the skill of the art are within the scope and teachings of the present invention.

The details of individual portable game playing unit owners may be stored in the memory of the portable game playing unit to identify the units and the virtual characters. However, because the individual virtual characters have fixed basic characteristics and identifying features, naming of a virtual character involves retaining the name of the owner/game player rather than renaming the character itself. In order to allow changes to individual characteristics or enhancements to advancing virtual characters to be downloaded into the portable game playing unit, the character name should be stored in the flash memory to allow changes beyond those characteristics given by the read-only memory upon reset of the portable game playing unit.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, it is preferred that each portable game playing unit be provided with a reset button28that will enable a game player to restore the settings of portable game playing unit10to an earlier setting or to an original setting. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reset button28should not be susceptible to inadvertent or accidental activation. Therefore, it should be placed on the back of housing12or required to be pushed in combination with another button or buttons so that only intentional reset is possible. Pressing reset button28can take place at any time during operation of the portable game playing unit and will initiate the resetting and first power up phase of the present invention illustrated inFIG. 2at30as well as resetting the system values stored in the memory. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention whenever fresh batteries are inserted into portable game playing unit10or reset button28is pushed the portable game playing unit configures itself as a new unit where character defining data is taken from the read only memory or the copy protected region of the flash memory, as designed.

After the game is powered up at step30, it enters Mode0at step32where the virtual character is restored along with its individual characteristics and any changes or updates thereto from the read only memory in a rebirth process. From there the game proceeds to Mode1at step34. The primary game function at Mode1is to initialize the LCD display memory and to set the CPU of the computing mechanism to full speed, readying itself for normal operation where portable game playing unit10is fully functional and capable of displaying animations, of detecting user input commands, and playing audio output.

Once the exemplary liquid crystal display14is initialized and the game unit becomes operational it proceeds to Mode2or the Snooze Mode at step36where portable game playing unit10is fully awake and operational but the 2D virtual character is shown visibly resting in its 2D surroundings on display14. These animated 2D surroundings can include an animated bedroom with the virtual character asleep in a bed. At this point in the process of the present invention, a variety of options become available to the virtual character.

Snooze Mode2at step36is the entry point for many of the present invention's game functions and activities. For example, an earlier game playing mode may be resumed at this point if the virtual character went into Deep Sleep Mode3at38for power saving reasons. Snooze Mode2at36is the entry point to Deep Sleep Mode3at38from all other modes of the present invention when the virtual character has not been operated or interacted with for some time. Alternatively, if the virtual character has been asleep for some time it will change its preferred waking state to Snooze Mode2to reflect that it is deciding to go to bed because it was tired.

Deep Sleep Mode3at38is designed to save power and to allow the CPU to enter its own sleep mode. Deep Sleep Mode3involves powering down the LCD display sub-system, backing up any data to flash memory if required, and sending the CPU to sleep. To assist with these functions the exemplary portable game playing unit10maintains a real time clock. In the exemplary embodiment portable game playing unit10is programmed to wake up every 0.5 seconds using a 2 hz interrupt driven by a 32,768 hz crystal to keep the clock going in Deep Sleep Mode3. The programmed computing mechanism of the exemplary portable game playing unit of the present invention also monitors the various user input buttons16-24for input from the game player to generate a wake up response and also enables the real time clock to move forward by ½ second.

It is this clock that enables the exemplary hunger, boredom and sleep patterns to be followed by the virtual character. Also the clock provides the present invention with the ability to execute set Clock/Alarm Mode14at46to set an alarm for the portable game playing unit which has the dual effect of waking up the game player as well as the virtual character. When Alarm Mode14at46actuates, the exemplary game of the present invention enters Snooze Mode2. When an alarm event occurs it is passed from Alarm Mode14at44to Snooze Mode2at36for processing. This processing may involve playing an alarm animation on display14and generating a sound effect through audio out26or starting other animation sequences such as those illustrating the virtual character waking up from hunger or boredom. An alarm event from Bored Mode14at44, or any of several virtual character timers, will send the virtual character from Deep Sleep Mode3at38to Waking Up Mode1at34.

As an additional feature, the exemplary game of the present invention may be provided with a motion sensor that may be activated during transit of the portable game playing unit to wake a virtual character. However, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention activation of the motion sensor is programmed so as not to wake up the portable game playing unit or delay the virtual character from entering sleep.

If desired, the game player can leave Snooze Mode2at36by pressing an input control button such as action button28or, alternatively, by selecting an item identified by pressing menu button22. Making such a control input will wake up the virtual character. Similarly, other signals coming from Deep Sleep Mode3at38also can arouse the character and are programmed to be checked for by the portable game playing unit. For example, if the virtual character is hungry or bored the alarm will sound and the virtual character will wake up so that the game player can take the appropriate steps to address these conditions.

From Snooze Mode2at36, the virtual character is able to enter one of the three main modes of the exemplary game of the present invention, Happy Mode4at40, Hungry Mode5at42, and Bored Mode6at44. Each of these additional character modes has at least one animation sequence to take the virtual character from the snooze animation of Snooze Mode2at36to the starting frame animation associated with each additional character Modes4-6at42-44. The virtual character also is able to leave each of these additional character Modes4-6at42-44and enter Snooze Mode2at36as appropriate to character activity and state. Once in Snooze Mode2at36the virtual character also is able to enter Deep Sleep Mode3at38as appropriate to game play, character activity, and state.

In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, if portable game playing unit10has been played with on a daily basis it is programmed to wake up after a normal sleep pattern for the respective virtual character defined therein. However, if the portable game playing unit is ignored for several days it may be programmed to enter Deep Sleep Mode3at38where it will not respond to anything but an alarm event or an input control button press. When there, if such an awakening input occurs the virtual character may be in Vacation Mode15at48or simply have given up and entered Departed Mode13at50. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiment of Deep Sleep Mode3is designed to save battery power even when portable game playing unit10has been given up and left alone for significant time periods.

Once Mode1at34has been completed and the virtual character has woken up into Snooze Mode2at36the virtual character can proceed into and out of 3 nodal modes. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention these nodal modes are identified as Happy Mode4at40, Hungry Mode5at42, and Bored Mode6at44. As shown inFIG. 2, the virtual character can transition between nodal Modes4,5and6at40,42, and44just as they can transition into and out of Snooze Mode2at36. The clock timer dictates when the game determines that a virtual character needs a snooze at Mode2, is getting hungry at Mode5, or bored at Mode6and these Modes may be entered by the virtual character automatically utilizing appropriate animations for each transition when such a determination is made.

The exemplary embodiment of the present invention is programmed such that a happy virtual character is a healthy and content character. Thus, all things being normal, once awake the healthy and contented virtual character will leave Snooze Mode2at36and enter Happy Mode4at40. Alternatively, when a hungry virtual character is fed or a bored virtual character becomes content through entertaining activities it will enter Happy Mode4at40as well.

All of the more engaging, entertaining, or fun activities provided in the exemplary game of the present invention can be carried out by the virtual characters from Happy Mode4. These activities include access to Shopping/Upgrading Mode7at52, access to Salon/Training Mode8at54, access to On-line Mode10at56, access to Playing Mode11at58and access to Looking Around Mode12at60. Because the individual virtual characters of the present invention have the same generic features, exemplary Shopping/Upgrading Mode7at52is a generic Mode that can involve appropriate animation sequences programmed to display shopping for a girl targeted virtual character or upgrading for a boy targeted virtual character.

Salon/Training Mode8at54is an analogous generic mode with basic features and functions applicable to all virtual characters. Depending on the virtual characters involved, it can be modified to present appropriate animations. For example, animation sequences suitable for a girl operated virtual character might show the virtual character relaxing and changing her looks at a salon, whereas animation sequences suitable for a boy operated virtual character might show the virtual character training at a gym. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such modifications are subtle and use the same underlying programming for each game version, with minor modifications and appropriately different animation sequences.

An additional aspect of the exemplary game of the present invention involves programming the individual virtual characters so that when they are in Happy Mode4at40they will engage in activities designed to humor their game player/owners. These optional activities can include spontaneous tricks, trying on different clothing combinations, or performing stunts. Optionally, the virtual characters also may try to show gratitude to their game player/owners for being happy and properly cared for by expressing love, friendship, or respect, depending on which expression is determined to be appropriate for the individual character involved.

When a virtual character enters Hungry Mode5at42the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is programmed so that the virtual character will not want to do certain things and will prefer to do other activities instead. For example, the hungry virtual character may enter Playing Mode11at58but will only be able to engage in playing activities that involve feeding. Or, the hungry virtual character may enter Snooze Mode2at36from Hungry Mode5at42, but will return to Hungry Mode5as soon as it is awakened.

Similarly, the virtual character will be able to enter On-line Mode10at56as the game player may want the character to eat in the 3D virtual world of Planet Mion™ or the game player may direct the virtual character to enter Shopping/Upgrading Mode7at52where the virtual character will be able to engage in activities that involve acquiring food and consuming it, but will not be able to enter other sections of Mode7. For example, the virtual character may enter Mode7and go to a restaurant section but will be unable to shop for clothes by entering a store section. Once the virtual character has been fed the exemplary game is programmed so that the virtual character will no longer be hungry and will decide if it is happy and will enter Happy Mode4at40, or bored and will enter Bored Mode6at44, depending upon other circumstances present in the game at that time.

To enhance both the entertainment value and the game player connection with the virtual characters of the present invention, the exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes programming so that when a virtual character enters Hungry Mode5at42various animation sequences will be displayed that will make it obvious to the game player that the virtual character is hungry. For example, if appropriate for the type of virtual character involved, the virtual character may make verbal Suggestions through audio out26such as, “Let's go eat”, or if the virtual character is a pet or animal it may make whining noises and chew on things, or make loud stomach rumbles and groaning.

If the software programming the exemplary embodiment of the present invention encounters circumstances indicating that a virtual character is bored, it will direct the character to enter Bored Mode6at44and will present appropriate animation sequences on display14. For example, the animations may show the bored virtual character acting with indifference, mild disrespect, or misbehaving. Once in Bored Mode6at44, the game player will find Bored Mode6to be less limiting than Hungry Mode5. Bored virtual characters will be animated to show the game player that they do not want to enter Looking Around Mode12at60or do some of the more strenuous activities upon entering Salon/Training Mode8at54.

However, upon entering Salon/Training Mode8at54the game player will find, for example, that the game has been programmed so that fun and exciting activities that decrease boredom are allowed and can be used to alter the virtual character's resting state from boredom so that the virtual character can return to Happy Mode4at40. Conversely, activities in Salon/Training Mode8that are programmed to reward a happy character from Happy Mode4at40are not available to a bored character entering from Bored Mode6at44. For example, rewarding activities that are not available to bored virtual characters may include activities that earn credits or money or that increase combat skills or pet training.

If completed successfully, when a virtual character shops or upgrades while in Shopping/Upgrading Mode7at52the virtual character can reduce being bored. The exemplary game of the present invention is programmed so that when a virtual character merely starts looking for items to buy or acquire the character's boredom counter will slow down, but not stop. Similarly, while shopping or upgrading the timers and counters that monitor how tired or hungry a virtual character is will also continue to run. Alarms may be programmed to continue running, but will not sound off until an input control button is pressed. Alternatively, the exemplary game can be programmed so that virtual characters with a large selection of items or upgrades will become bored more slowly because they can experiment with their possessions while on their own in Happy Mode4at40.

While in Shopping/Upgrading Mode7at52a virtual character is able to acquire items, things, and skills to aid or enhance its virtual life both within portable game playing unit10or when on-line in Planet Mion™. The types and kinds of items and skills that can be acquired are dependent upon the type of virtual character involved in the game playing activity. For example, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention credits can be acquired as pocket money, pet treats, or victory medals by, respectively, Bratz™, Pawz™, or Monsterz™. These credits are basically interchangeable and simply appear differently on different game playing units as appropriate for the virtual character defined or “living” in the individual game playing unit. Therefore if a Monsterz™ gives a medal to a Pawz™ character, it becomes a pet biscuit, while giving a medal to a Bratz™ character will result in the Bratz™ character receiving pocket money. In this manner different virtual characters can trade items while on-line or wirelessly when playing between each other on their IR linked portable game playing units.

A virtual character may earn money or credits while in Salon/Training Mode8at54, while in Giving/Fighting Mode9at62, or when on-line in On-line Mode10at56. If desired, the exemplary game can be programmed so that the maximum number of credits that can be earned while playing in portable game playing unit10within a particular time period will be limited. This will encourage a game player to go into On-line Mode10at56more often in order to earn more credits. For example, the number of credits that can be earned within a portable game playing unit can be limited to four units within a 24-hour period.

Salon/Training Mode8at54is where a virtual character is able to enhance its wealth, personal well-being, and abilities. How this occurs is character dependent and involves appropriate character focused animation sequences. For example, the exemplary game is programmed so that while in Mode8Bratz™ virtual characters will have the salon and beauty options, Pawz™ characters will have the option of training for treats and going for walks, and Monsterz™ characters will be able to engage in battle training and tough challenges to earn medals.

As noted above, the exemplary game is programmed so that at least one activity within Salon/Training Mode8at54is not allowed when a character comes from Bored Mode6as the virtual character is programmed to view this activity as boring. For Pawz™ characters this not allowed activity is grooming. For Monsterz™ characters the not allowed activity is being cleaned. For Bratz™ characters the not allowed activity is tidying up their personal space. However, when not bored a virtual character performing these activities will receive its highest reward.

The exemplary embodiment of the present invention is programmed so that at least one activity in Salon/Training Mode8at54provides a mild hunger reduction and is not boring and at least one activity is exciting but does not alleviate hunger. For example, for an exemplary Bratz™ virtual character the feeding activity is preparing and eating breakfast cereal or something similar. The boredom reducing activity is a beauty treatment that involves cleaning and making the virtual character appear pretty, which they are programmed to enjoy. For an exemplary Pawz™ virtual character the feeding activity is catching and eating food items thrown to it. The boredom reducing activity is playing with its toys and the game player in games such as “fetch”. The feeding activity for the exemplary Monsterz™ virtual characters is the equivalent of hunting for treats like a Pawz™ virtual character only the Monsterz™ are animated to use battle skills to reveal food morsels. The exemplary Monsterz™ boredom reducing activity is engaging in exciting sports such as racing against time or throwing objects to achieve a personal best result. Monsterz™ also are programmed to have a mock battle mode that earns no medals but allows the game player to play against the virtual character rather than to control it.

Giving/Fighting Mode9at62only can be entered by a virtual character from Looking Around Mode12at60. This is because in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention the game is programmed so that a virtual character can perform these activities only when linked to another portable game playing unit by the wireless IR link. For example, for Pawz™ virtual characters Looking Around Mode12involves activities such as playing in the park and exchanging toys and accessories with other virtual characters. Looking around activities for Bratz™ virtual characters include being able to trade garments and personal items with other virtual characters and even using pocket money in these trades as not all items are available to them in Shopping/Upgrading Mode7at52. For Monsterz™ Looking Around Mode12at60involves battling other Monsterz™ for medals.

A Monsterz™ virtual character cannot enter a battle without a stake of medals on offer to a competitor. Accordingly, in order to do battle a Monsterz™ virtual character must have earned these medals in Salon/Training Mode8at54or while on-line prior to entering Looking Around Mode12at60on its way to entering Giving/Fighting Mode9at62. As an added aspect of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the game is programmed so that different battle modes require different numbers of medals that give different advantages to the virtual characters. For example, taking three medals into a battle may give the virtual player an extra life or access to special skills.

No matter how much of an imbalance the medals bring to the battle the exemplary game is programmed so that each player has some small chance to win or lose and the outcome is never 100%. A game player's skill in battle will be rewarded by selecting the appropriate special abilities of its Monsterz™ virtual character to use against a specific Monsterz™ character being faced. Actual winning and losing of a battle is not simply based on speed of reactions. Rather, decisions made by a game player throughout the battle along with a final random element determine a victor. The winning Monsterz™ character takes all of the medals brought to the fight.

Additionally, when in two player or linked mode using the wireless IR link-up features of two portable game playing units10, the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is programmed to make it possible for the two linked game players to play at least one game available in Playing Mode11at58which can be accessed from Giving/Fighting Mode9at62. For example, a standard game available in linked mode can be similar to rock-paper-scissors or tick-tac-toe. If desired, at least one unit of credit can be risked on each game and rewarded to the winning game player. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the graphic artwork and animation for the standard games may appear different for each different virtual character, but the underlying game play may remain the same.

In the exemplary embodiment of the present intention when a virtual character is in Playing Mode11at58and playing a game, the game player participates to help the virtual character rather than play against it in competition. Thus, the playing of games is a cooperative environment where the game player and the character are on the same side. Conversely, some training elements in Salon/Training Mode8at54are semi-competitive, but involve no harm or rewards to the virtual character other than the training.

A virtual character can enter On-line Mode10at56from either Happy Mode4at40, Hungry Mode5at42, or Bored Mode6at44. When in On-line Mode10the timers and counters that monitor how tired, bored, or hungry a virtual character may be continue to run until a connection is made to the web server through the connected computer. If such a connection is not made quickly, then when the virtual character finally arrives on Planet Mion™ it may be bored or hungry and it's on-line activities may be restricted accordingly until it is fed or entertained.

In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention when the translation from portable handheld game playing unit10to Planet Mion™ is initiated, display14of portable handheld game playing unit10will display a message or an animated sequence indicating that the virtual character is attempting to enter Planet Mion™. If a successful network or Internet connection is made the virtual character will enter Vacation Mode15at48and an appropriate graphic image will be presented on display14. Meanwhile, the translated virtual character will appear in 3D on the computer screen where it can be controlled by the game player through the web server to interact in the 3D virtual world of Planet Mion™ on the computer network. If the game player chooses not to go on-line, the virtual character can be directed to leave On-line Mode10at56by pressing a control input button and it will return to Vacation Mode15at48. Thus, when a virtual character is on-line it is no longer in On-line Mode10at56, but in Vacation Mode15at48. Therefore to return the virtual character to the portable game playing unit display14the web server must synchronize and re-flash the virtual character defining data to the portable game playing unit in order to bring the virtual character out of Vacation Mode15at48.

Another future of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is programming that allows a virtual character that has been ignored or disregarded for a long period of time to become depressed and eventually leave the active features of portable handheld game playing unit10. For example, a virtual character can become depressed and leave after a few days of total inactivity. When a virtual character leaves it will enter Departed Mode13at50and a message will be presented on display14indicating to the game player that the virtual character has departed. If this occurs there are two ways to return a departed virtual character to the now vacant portable game playing unit10. The first method for returning a departed virtual character is to restart portable game playing unit10. This will restart portable game playing unit10and take it through reset/first power at30and through Rebirth Mode0at32. The second method for returning a departed virtual character is to plug portable game playing unit10into the computer which will allow entry into On-line Mode10where an option will be presented to the game player allowing it to acquire another compatible virtual character and to translate that virtual character back into the vacant portable game playing unit10.

This feature of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention makes it possible for a portable game playing unit10to be left “empty”. This feature is designed to allow game operators to create more complex or different virtual characters that can be downloaded into vacant portable game playing units. Accordingly, when a virtual character has entered Departed Mode13at50a message may be presented on display14or the connected computer screen informing the game player that either a new virtual character can be purchased on-line, or to reset the portable game playing unit and train a new standard virtual character without going on-line.

Functionally speaking, when a virtual character of the present invention is in Vacation Mode15at48or in Departed Mode13at50there is no real difference perceived by the game player. After several days in Vacation Mode15at48a timer will activate and the virtual character will enter Departed Mode13at50and will notify the game player that he can reset the portable game playing unit or purchase a new or enhanced character on-line. The web server software will not let a game player play without a virtual character. Thus, for all practical purposes, it is not possible for a game player to let a virtual character live on-line only. Rather, a virtual character must exist in either Vacation Mode15at48or in Departed Mode13at50within portable game playing unit10. The web server software may be programmed to provide a limited explanatory demonstration to the game player if no virtual character exists in the portable game playing unit to alert the game player to this issue.

When a virtual character of the present invention enters Playing Mode11at58there are a variety of games that can be played depending upon which virtual character is owned and being played by the game player. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention two of these games are universal and exist in all of the portable game playing units, although each will have custom artwork designed for each specific virtual character. Exemplary universal games are rock-paper-scissors and tic-tac-toe. Additionally, each portable game playing unit can include a custom one player game which, depending on the virtual character being played, can include basic elements such as dancing to an increasing rhythm, catching or shooting at ever increasing difficulties, dodging while collecting, and memory games such as turning over patterned cards and remembering pairs.

As shown inFIG. 2, a virtual character cannot enter Playing Mode11at58when hungry. Further, if a virtual character is in Playing Mode11at58when the hungry system timer times out or the virtual character exits Playing Mode11at58when hungry it will return directly to Hungry Mode5at42and must be fed before reentering Playing Mode11at58. Similarly, if a virtual character in Looking Around Mode12at60becomes hungry it will move to Hungry Mode5at42. If the virtual character becomes bored it will move from Looking Around Mode12at60to Bored Mode6at44. However, a virtual character can move into and out of Looking Around Mode12at60from either Happy Mode4at48or Giving/Fighting Mode9and62.

When a virtual character is in Looking Around Mode12at60the exemplary game of the present invention is programmed to enable the CPU to dedicate itself to looking for other virtual characters through the IR communications port using IR transceiver hardware as known in the art. To change from passively looking for another virtual character to initiating contact and sending a wireless IR message to another virtual character, the game player presses any button other than on/off button16or reset button28. This will result in the portable game playing unit presenting an icon or message on display14letting the game player know that it needs to press another identified button to start communication with a linked portable game playing unit10.

For communication to be successful a second game player must position a second portable game playing unit10in line of sight IR communication with the first player's portable game playing unit10and the second portable game playing unit10also must have its virtual character in Looking Around Mode12at60. Once the IR linked portable game playing units have paired up each will enter Giving/Fighting Mode9at62and the two virtual characters can interact. If the two virtual characters are not both the same type, they will be limited in what activities they can do together as designed into the software of the respective portable game playing units.

For example, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention Bratz™ are programmed so that they can give Pawz™ treats and toys that they can buy in Shopping/Upgrading Mode7at52. They can play rock-paper-scissors and tic-tac-toe with Bratz™ and Monsterz™ but not with Pawz™. They can give and receive any item or pocket money from other Bratz™. They can give food to Monsterz™ in exchange for pocket money or medals. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention feeding Monsterz™ is the only way to keep them docile as these characters are designed and programmed to exhibit this interesting personality characteristic.

Pawz™ are programmed so that they can increase Bratz™ happiness when they beg to receive treats or show affection after having received toys. Pawz™ also can give toys to Bratz™ and receive much happiness from this activity and even treats in exchange. They also can play rock-paper-scissors with other Pawz™ and with Monsterz™ for dog treats. They cannot play tic-tac-toe with anyone including other Pawz™. This is because the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is programmed to correspond with the perceived game player belief that it would generate disbelief in Bratz™ and Monsterz™ if they saw Pawz™ drawing and because Monsterz™ are programmed so that they do not like playing tic-tac-toe with anyone but themselves.

Monsterz™ are programmed to play rock-paper-scissors obsessively and with every other virtual character. Here, the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is programmed to reflect a perceived game player belief that because Monsterz™ are a fantasy character disbelief is less important. Monsterz™ can play tic-tac-toe with other Monsterz™ and give medals to Bratz™ that are converted to pocket money. Monsterz™ can receive only food in exchange. They can give food to Pawz™ but receive no happiness from this action as they only want to keep Pawz™ from being hungry and needing a feeding break that would prevent Monsterz™ from playing more rock-paper-scissors.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, although arbitrary, this exemplary virtual character programming gives identifiable personality to the individual virtual characters without restricting their compatibility to interact with each other. This increases game player interaction as well and also may encourage individual game players to own multiple portable game playing units defining different virtual characters in order to play the game of the present invention on-line with different capabilities and character attitudes.

Once the portable game playing unit of the present invention has been purchased and initialized by a game player or owner, the unit's system clock and a single repeat alarm event may be set within Set Alarm/Clock Mode14at46. For example, for Bratz™ virtual characters some diary functions can be tracked including birth date alarms and names and numbers of friends. This information can be edited in On-line Mode10at50rather than within the portable game playing unit. Only the clock and alarm can be changed from within the portable game playing unit. Once in On-line Mode10at50the clock and date can be updated by the Web server. Additionally, personal information and reminders may be entered by the game player and will translate back to the appropriate portable game playing unit so that they may appear on display14and be edited or deleted from Set Alarm/Clock Mode14at46.

The exemplary game of the present invention is programmed so that the game player or game owner identity can be stored in either or both the portable game playing unit or the web server. Within Set Alarm/Clock Mode14at46and On-line Mode10at56it is possible to change the game player name as well as the name of a new virtual character that has been downloaded. However once the new character has been named the name cannot be changed unless the game player decides to reset the portable game playing unit and enter Re-Birth Mode0at32or enter Departed Mode13to purchase a newly created character on-line.

This game player name protection is designed to discourage the theft of a portable game playing unit or of a specific well-developed virtual character because the game player's name will be preserved unless a unit is reset and all the training and character enhancing data is lost. Additionally, a game player has a specific on-line password and e-mail address that will prevent another game player from taking possession of a virtual character on-line by using the same game player name. In order to avoid conflicts and to cope with the event that a game player name is already taken by another game player when going into On-line Mode10at56, a game player wishing to use an existing name will be offered the chance to change names when the virtual character returns from Vacation Mode15at48.

The exemplary game of the present invention is programmed so that the only way to return from Vacation Mode15at48is for the web server to reintroduce the virtual character to the portable game playing unit. Alternatively, if the portable game playing unit is not connected to a computer the game player can return the virtual character by resetting the portable game playing unit to enter Re-Birth Mode0at32.

Leaving a portable game playing unit of the present invention connected to a computer that is powered up will provide safe charging of the batteries in the portable game playing unit without losing any data or creating a Re-Birth Mode0event where acquired virtual character data is lost. If the computer crashes while a virtual character is on-line the game player will have to return on-line and retrieve the virtual character from the web server before continuing with any on-line activities. If the computer crashes before the Web server has copied the virtual character identifying data transmitted from the portable game playing unit the virtual character will not be in On Vacation Mode15at48and the portable game playing unit will retain the specific details of the virtual character in memory. If the computer crashes while translating the virtual character back to the portable game playing unit and re-flashing the memory it will remain possible to re-flash the memory when the game player goes back on-line.

If the connector computer has several USB ports, depending upon driver compatibility it should be possible for a game player owning several portable game playing units to have several virtual characters on-line. Each virtual character should be able to move back into any compatible portable game playing unit to enter either On Vacation Mode15at48or Departed Mode13at50. This is because a single read-only memory will contain all of the basics for a specific genre of virtual characters. Thus, in accordance with the teachings of the present invention only three read-only memory stored genre types will be sufficient to create the three exemplary virtual character types, Bratz™, Pawz™, and Monsterz™. Additionally, flash memory will play a significant role in the present invention and may be utilized to contain some or all of this generic character identifying information, as long as enough free space is retained for characteristic changing and updating data.

It should be pointed out that for purposes of the present invention the term “game play” is not restricted to the “play” of simple “games”. Instead, the phrase is to be interpreted its broadest sense, as the present invention has broad applicability to a wide variety of electronic fields of activity ranging from children's games directed to having fun, to teaching environments directed to acquiring new and different skills or levels of skill and understanding, as well as to adult focused behaviors having serious and even professional purposes going beyond mere entertainment. With this understanding it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention can be useful as well as entertaining to a wide variety of intended audiences when modified to target a specific audience in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

It will further be appreciated that, although the illustrative embodiment has been presented with reference to specific cabling and interconnection types such as USB ports and cables and IR ports, the type of connection between units is not critical to the invention, and in general any operative connection between devices will suffice. As used here, therefore, the term “communications port” should be understood in its broadest sense to encompass any input/output channel by which devices communicate, including both wired and wireless communication.

Further, it will be appreciated that the term “present invention” as used herein should not be construed to mean that only a single invention having a single essential element or group of elements is presented. Similarly, it will also be appreciated that the term “present invention” encompasses a number of separate innovations which can each be considered separate inventions. Further, a person skilled in the art of software and computer networking will be able to write software that will implement the functions of the present invention from the foregoing description. Additionally, a person skilled in the art of digital or computer animation will be able to produce the animation sequences needed to practice the present invention. Although the present invention has thus been described in detail with regard to the exemplary embodiments and associated drawings thereof, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that various adaptations and modifications of the present invention may be accomplished without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention.

For example, individual portable handheld game playing units can define more than one character that may or may not be user controlled. In one such instance a game unit defined character may have a companion, a team, or a pet associated with it that will translate to and from the computer driven or Internet virtual world with the character. This companion, team, pet can be autonomous or user controlled. Additionally, different types of handheld units defining different types of characters can translate their respective characters to the same interactive virtual world. Further, the virtual worlds or operating environments to which the individual characters of the present invention translate to and from can differ in a manner other than the number of dimensions, such as moving from an Earth based environment to a zero gravity space environment or from an aquatic environment to a desert environment and back.

Accordingly, it is to be understood that the detailed description and the accompanying drawings as set forth hereinabove are not intended to limit the breadth of the present invention, which should be inferred only from the following claims and their appropriately construed legal equivalents.