Card-handling devices may include an input area sized and shaped to receive cards and an output area for outputting at least some of the cards. A defect detection system may be located along a card path downstream from the input area. The defect detection system may include an emitter positioned and oriented to direct radiation toward a major surface of a card as the card moves along the card path. A detector may be positioned and configured to detect the radiation emitted by the emitter and reflected from the major surface of the card as the card moves along the card path. A controller may be operatively connected to the detector and configured to correlate a signal from the detector with an identification of a degree to which the major surface of the card has deviated from a reference plane.
Card handling devices may include one or more features for detecting a deficiency relating to at least one card. Methods of operating a card handling device may include detecting a deficiency relating to at least one card.
Monitoring systems for monitoring electronic card handling devices are disclosed. A monitoring system includes a monitoring server configured to receive card handling performance data from a number of electronic card handling devices. The monitoring server is further configured to associate received performance data with a corresponding electronic card handling device. The monitoring server is further configured to display the performance data associated with at least some of the electronic card handling devices. Other related systems and methods are also disclosed.
Card-handling devices may include an input area sized and shaped to receive cards and an output area for outputting at least some of the cards. A defect detection system may be located along a card path downstream from the input area. The defect detection system may be configured to scan at least one card to determine whether at least one characteristic of the at least one card has been modified beyond a predetermined limit or whether the at least one characteristic of the at least one card is within the predetermined limit. A diverter may be configured to divert the at least one card from the card path when the at least one characteristic of the at least one card has been modified beyond the predetermined limit and enable the at least one card to continue on the card path when the at least one characteristic of the at least one card is within the predetermined limit.
Monitoring systems for monitoring electronic card handling devices are disclosed. A monitoring system includes a monitoring server configured to receive card handling performance data from a number of electronic card handling devices. The monitoring server is further configured to associate received performance data with a corresponding electronic card handling device. The monitoring server is further configured to receive user input, and in response to the user input, identify a plurality of electronic card handling devices of the number of electronic card handling devices. The monitoring server is further configured to display a graphical user interface including at least one graphical representation of the performance data associated with the identified electronic card handling devices. Other related systems and methods are also disclosed.
Chip sorting devices may include at least one chip collection tube having at least one of a chip stack alignment cup or a stabilizer positioned over the at least one chip collection tube.
Systems and methods of administering wagering games include administering an opportunity for at least one player to place at least one ante wager on at least one community hand. Systems and methods of administering such wagering games may be performed over a network utilizing a processor.
Card handling devices may include a card shuffling apparatus and a card output portion having a card buffer area positioned at an interface of the card shuffling apparatus and the card output portion. The card output portion may be configured to move relative to the card shuffling apparatus and alter the orientation of the card buffer area. Card handling devices having a substantially flat card output area may include an interface portion having an at least substantially flat draw surface. The substantially flat card output area may permit playing cards to be drawn from an outlet of the substantially flat card output area in a plurality of at least substantially horizontal directions. Methods of shuffling playing cards may include altering an orientation of a card buffer area and inserting cards into the card buffer area at both a top and a bottom of a group of cards within the card buffer area.
G07F 11/14 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other with means for raising the stack of articles to permit delivery of the topmost
G07F 11/04 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
9.
Card handling devices and related assemblies and components
Card handling devices may include a card shuffling apparatus and a card output portion having a card buffer area positioned at an interface of the card shuffling apparatus and the card output portion. The card output portion may be configured to move relative to the card shuffling apparatus and alter the orientation of the card buffer area. Card handling devices having a substantially flat card output area may include an interface portion having an at least substantially flat draw surface. The substantially flat card output area may permit playing cards to be drawn from an outlet of the substantially flat card output area in a plurality of at least substantially horizontal directions. Methods of shuffling playing cards may include altering an orientation of a card buffer area and inserting cards into the card buffer area at both a top and a bottom of a group of cards within the card buffer area.
G07F 11/14 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other with means for raising the stack of articles to permit delivery of the topmost
G07F 11/04 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
10.
Card handling systems, devices for use in card handling systems and related methods
Card handling systems include shuffling devices, shoe devices, and a card transfer system for automatically transferring cards from the shuffling device into the shoe device. Shuffling devices may include a divider configured to contact at least one card positioned within a compartment of the shuffling device. Shoe devices may include a card loading system for loading cards into a card storage area through an opening in a base of the shoe device. Methods of providing cards during a casino table game play include identifying card information including a rank and a suit of each card in a shuffling device and a shoe device and transporting cards from the shuffling device to the shoe device.
Card handling systems include shuffling devices, shoe devices, and a card transfer system for automatically transferring cards from the shuffling device into the shoe device. Shuffling devices may include a divider configured to contact at least one card positioned within a compartment of the shuffling device. Shoe devices may include a card loading system for loading cards into a card storage area through an opening in a base of the shoe device. Methods of providing cards during a casino table game play include identifying card information including a rank and a suit of each card in a shuffling device and a shoe device and transporting cards from the shuffling device to the shoe device.
A monitoring system for monitoring casino gaming devices through a casino network is disclosed. The monitoring includes casino gaming devices configured to generate performance data and transmit the data corresponding to the monitored usage of the casino 5 gaming devices over a casino network, a monitoring server configured to store and manage a database including the game data received from the casino gaming devices, and an operator station configured to retrieve and display the game data on a graphical user interface having icons that display real-time operational parameters of the casino gaming devices. A related method for gathering and maintaining operational performance indicators for a plurality of 10 casino table devices operably coupled to a casino network including a middleware server and a client terminal is also disclosed.
Card handling devices may include one or more features for detecting a deficiency relating to at least one card. Methods of operating a card handling device may include detecting a deficiency relating to at least one card.
Card handling devices may include one or more features for detecting a deficiency relating to at least one card. Methods of operating a card handling device may include detecting a deficiency relating to at least one card.
Chip sorting devices may include at least one chip collection tube having at least one adjustable wall that at least partially defines an inner diameter of the at least one chip collection tube. The at least one adjustable wall may be at least partially rotatable to define different inner diameters. Chip sorting devices may include a chip hopper having a relief mechanism for clearing chips that become jammed between a chip chamber and a base plate of the chip hopper. Methods of sorting chips may include actuating the relief mechanism to increase a space between a top plate of the relief mechanism and the chip chamber. Methods of setting up a chip sorting device may include adjusting an inner lateral dimension of the at least one chip collection tube.
A side wagering system for table games includes a table controller, a dealer interface and at least one player interface, the at least one player interface including a first wager area and at least one second wager area which permit a player to place first, second or one or more third supplemental wagers for the opportunity to win corresponding first, second or one or more third awards, such as a first, a second or a third progressive jackpot. The table controllers or multiple tables may be linked to a common award server.
Card handling systems include shuffling devices, shoe devices, and a card transfer system for automatically transferring cards from the shuffling device into the shoe device. Shuffling devices may include a divider configured to contact at least one card positioned within a compartment of the shuffling device. Shoe devices may include a card loading system for loading cards into a card storage area through an opening in a base of the shoe device. Methods of providing cards during a casino table game play include identifying card information including a rank and a suit of each card in a shuffling device and a shoe device and transporting cards from the shuffling device to the shoe device.
Chip sorting devices may include at least one chip collection tube having at least one adjustable wall that at least partially defines an inner diameter of the at least one chip collection tube. The at least one adjustable wall may be at least partially rotatable to define different inner diameters. Chip sorting devices may include a chip hopper having a relief mechanism for clearing chips that become jammed between a chip chamber and a base plate of the chip hopper. Methods of sorting chips may include actuating the relief mechanism to increase a space between a top plate of the relief mechanism and the chip chamber. Methods of setting up a chip sorting device may include adjusting an inner lateral dimension of the at least one chip collection tube.
Chip sorting devices may include at least one chip collection tube having at least one adjustable wall that at least partially defines an inner diameter of the at least one chip collection tube. The at least one adjustable wall may be at least partially rotatable to define different inner diameters. Chip sorting devices may include a chip hopper having a relief mechanism for clearing chips that become jammed between a chip chamber and a base plate of the chip hopper. Methods of sorting chips may include actuating the relief mechanism to increase a space between a top plate of the relief mechanism and the chip chamber. Methods of setting up a chip sorting device may include adjusting an inner lateral dimension of the at least one chip collection tube.
Systems and methods of operating progressive jackpots linked to wagering games having different jackpot triggers with different probabilities. The jackpot winning probabilities may be normalized such that players may have the substantially the same odds to win the major progressive jackpot regardless on the wagering game being played. The jackpot triggers may be associated with particular wagering game outcomes. The jackpot triggers may also be associated with a prize of a segment of a spin wheel that is spun in response to the occurrence of a particular wagering game outcome. The spin wheel may be displayed on a player interface of a gaming machine in response to the particular wagering game outcome.
Gaming table systems configured to at least partially automatically administer wagering games may include a gaming table with player positions having wagering areas for accepting wagers. An automatic card-handling device configured to output subsets of cards may be supported by the gaming table. An electronic display device may be positioned and oriented to be visible by at least one of a player participating in the wagering game and a dealer aiding in administration of the wagering game. A processing unit may be programmed to dynamically select a pay table corresponding to a number of eligible hands from a set of pay tables and cause the electronic display device to display the dynamically selected pay table.
Card handling devices may include a card shuffling apparatus and a card output portion having a card buffer area positioned at an interface of the card shuffling apparatus and the card output portion. The card output portion may be configured to move relative to the card shuffling apparatus and alter the orientation of the card buffer area. Card handling devices having a substantially flat card output area may include an interface portion having an at least substantially flat draw surface. The substantially flat card output area may permit playing cards to be drawn from an outlet of the substantially flat card output area in a plurality of at least substantially horizontal directions. Methods of shuffling playing cards may include altering an orientation of a card buffer area and inserting cards into the card buffer area at both a top and a bottom of a group of cards within the card buffer area.
G07F 11/14 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other with means for raising the stack of articles to permit delivery of the topmost
G07F 11/04 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
24.
CARD HANDLING DEVICES AND RELATED ASSEMBLIES AND COMPONENTS
Card handling devices may include a card shuffling apparatus and a card output portion having a card buffer area positioned at an interface of the card shuffling apparatus and the card output portion. The card output portion may be configured to move relative to the card shuffling apparatus and alter the orientation of the card buffer area. Card handling devices having a substantially flat card output area may include an interface portion having an at least substantially flat draw surface. The substantially flat card output area may permit playing cards to be drawn from an outlet of the substantially flat card output area in a plurality of at least substantially horizontal directions. Methods of shuffling playing cards may include altering an orientation of a card buffer area and inserting cards into the card buffer area at both a top and a bottom of a group of cards within the card buffer area.
A ball launching system mounts to a top rim of a roulette wheel and positions a ball launcher configured to launch a roulette ball into the roulette wheel. The ball launching system includes an outer jaw and an inner jaw, which clamp to the top rim. At least a part of a ball launcher extends into a concave bowl of the roulette wheel and facilitates launching the roulette ball directly into a ball track underneath the top rim within the concave bowl.
An electronically administered card game with a multi tiered bonus game is disclosed. The bonus game occurs after the base game play is resolved. The rank of the initial dealer cards determines a bonus level for the bonus game and a number of indicia for corresponding multiplier and award pick fields. Based upon player indicia selection, a multiplier value for the bonus game is determined in addition to an award amount using a pyramid pick field of award indicia descending in number in various tiers. Each tier contains indicia specifying a specific award amount and a single indicium enabling selection from a next higher tier, if available. The bonus game award is determined by adjusting a selected award amount using the multiplier value or awarding a progressive jackpot at the highest bonus level.
Card handling systems include shuffling devices, shoe devices, and a card transfer system for automatically transferring cards from the shuffling device into the shoe device. Shuffling devices may include a divider configured to contact at least one card positioned within a compartment of the shuffling device. Shoe devices may include a card loading system for loading cards into a card storage area through an opening in a base of the shoe device. Methods of providing cards during a casino table game play include identifying card information including a rank and a suit of each card in a shuffling device and a shoe device and transporting cards from the shuffling device to the shoe device.
Chip sorting devices and methods of ejecting chips from chip wells are disclosed. In some embodiments, chip sorting devices may include at least one chip ejection unit including at least one finger member selectively movable between a first position outside of at least one channel of a chip conveying unit and a second position within the at least one channel. In additional embodiments, a chip sorting device may include a separating wheel comprising a plurality of chip wells, each chip well configured to hold a plurality of chips. In yet additional embodiments, methods of ejecting a chip from a chip well may include urging a selected chip out of the chip well with the at least one finger member and at least one wall segment of a trailing segmented wall of the chip well.
A bet sensor for sensing values of gaming tokens may include a bet placement surface configured and oriented to support a stack of gaming tokens thereon and an image sensor located and oriented to capture an image of a lateral side surface of at least one gaming token located on the bet placement surface. The image may depict the lateral side surface in a radial format. The bet sensor may include a processor in communication with the image sensor. The processor is configured to acquire image data from the image and analyze the image data to determine a wager value of the at least one token. A gaming table may include such a bet sensor. The disclosure includes methods of operating such a gaming table.
A video gaming system is disclosed that includes one or more game processors, one or more video displays, an apparatus for a player to control the play of the game, and a memory device. The memory device stores a set of fixed instructions to control the game processor and is configured to: enable the player to interact with the game interface to select a game from a list of games offered by the video gaming machine, wherein the game is represented by a game bubble floating in the game interface; display a game selection interface to enable the player to select the game and add the game in a control panel, wherein the control panel is configured to display multiple games selected by the player; and enable the player to switch among the plurality of games and control a game play of the plurality of games concurrently.
G07F 17/32 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
G07F 17/34 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements depending on the stopping of moving members, e.g. "fruit" machines
A playing card handling device comprises an elevator platform configured to receive one or more cards from an input platform to form a shuffled set of cards, a card gripper positioned above the elevator platform, and configured to grip cards from the shuffled set of cards, and a processor configured to control the elevator platform to have a grip position for the card gripper grip the shuffled set of cards, wherein the grip position is adjusted based, at least in part, on a correction value associated with a particular card insertion. A related method includes determining a grip position of an elevator platform of a card handling device based, at least in part, on a desired insert location within a stack of shuffled cards as adjusted based on a corrective value that is different for a plurality of different insert locations.
Card shufflers usable in forming and dispensing randomized playing card hands for use in playing card games include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting shuffled cards from the card shuffler. The card storage device may include a wheel configured to rotate within the card shuffler. The rotatable wheel may have a plurality of card storage compartments therein, each of which may be sized and configured to hold two or more cards therein. Related methods involve the use of such card shufflers in playing card games.
Systems include an automatic card shuffler and a shoe. The automatic card shuffler may include a printing device for applying a randomly selected set symbol on each cards of a set of cards. The shoe may include a set symbol reader for reading each card for a presence and identity of a set symbol. A shoe processor may be configured to receive a signal from a shuffler processor indicating the selected set symbol to enable the shoe processor to verify that each card belongs to the set of cards. An automatic card shuffler includes a processor programmed to randomly select a card set symbol and a card marking system for forming the randomly selected set symbol on cards. Methods include forming a randomly determined set symbol on each card of a set of cards and detecting whether cards include a set symbol matching the determined set symbol.
A gaming table apparatus has a gaming table with a gaming table support surface. A token sensor assembly includes a container having a height and side walls which define an inside and outside perimeter of the container, and a top surface and bottom surface, a translucent cover disposed on the top surface of the side walls, a circuit board secured to the inside perimeter of the container, a plurality of lights disposed on a top side of the circuit board, and a passive ambient light sensor disposed on the top side of the circuit board. The passive ambient light sensor and the translucent cover may operate within predetermined wavelength ranges for receiving and passing light, respectively. A condition of the passive ambient light sensor may not be polled if the plurality of lights are emitting light.
Disclosed is a method for enabling a mobile augmented reality (AR) table betting system to facilitate game play with a table game and one or more players each using a mobile device. The method includes: enabling a player to register at an available betting spot on the table game using the player's mobile device; providing a dealer display that presents information to a dealer as game events occur on the player's associated mobile device; enabling a player to access funds from an electronic wallet associated with the player to place an initial bet at the table game; commencing game play at the table game; enabling a player to place an subsequent bet or game decision at the table game using the player's mobile device; in response to a winning table game outcome, transferring funds to the player; and in response to a losing table game outcome, transferring funds from the player.
A card shuffler that moves cards one-at-a-time from the bottom of a group that may be a deck in a deck-crib (12), to randomly designated single-card receptacles in a receiving or dealing rack (14), and methods for shuffling and for dealing cards. Either the deck-crib or the receiving rack is moved by a motor (92) to align a single-card receptacle, randomly selected from among remaining empty single- card receptacles, with an outfeed slot of the deck-crib to receive each card to be moved from the deck-crib. A single card is moved from the deck-crib by a card mover mechanism that may include an auxiliary card pusher (460) to ensure that the card is placed fully into the selected single-card receptacle. A controller can cause the dealing rack to move so as to allow a selected number of cards to be removed by the dealer for dealing as a player hand or a dealer hand. A card presentation pusher may make a group of the cards in the dealing rack available to be grasped by the dealer for removal. A card reader may be included, and positions in the receiving or dealing rack of cards identified by the card reader can be stored in memory in the controller.
Various embodiments directed to systems and methods that enable remote play of a game hosted by a gaming machine using a mobile device are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the system includes a network in communication with the gaming machine and the mobile device, and the network includes a first wireless access point located in a first area and a second wireless access point located in a second area of a venue. Also included is a remote gaming server in communication with the gaming machine and mobile device over the network. The remote gaming server enables remote play when the mobile device is connected to the second wireless access point and prevents remote play when the mobile device is connected to the first wireless access point.
Disclosed is a method for enabling a player to use tickets printed at a casino when the player wants to play games in an on-line casino associated with the land-based casino using a virtual ticket system. The method includes: installing a mobile application for the virtual ticket system on a player's mobile device; registering the player with the virtual ticket system using a mobile number of the mobile device; sending a validation key to the mobile number to validate the mobile device; enabling the player to plays a game on a gaming machine at the land-based casino; after the player has completed game play in the land-based casino, providing the player with an opportunity to create an electronic ticket that is usable in the on-line casino; and enabling the player to engage in game play in the on-line casino using the player's mobile device or a desktop computer platform.
A system and method for reducing network dependencies for streaming content is disclosed. According to one embodiment, a host streaming server is configured to host a plurality of host virtual machines for hosting a host instance of a plurality of content packages and provide the selected instances of the content packages to a plurality of client gaming devices over a network. Each of a plurality of local streaming servers is associated with a group of client gaming devices and communicates with the host streaming server over the communication network. A local streaming server has a memory storing at least one content package, and is configured to host one or more local virtual machines for hosting a local instance of the host instance. A director module controls migration of the host instance to the local instance from the host streaming server to at least one of the plurality of local streaming servers.
Methods of administering wagering games include accepting at least one of a play wager, a hand comparison wager, and a hand composition wager from at least one participating player and dealing a at least a portion of a player hand to the at least one participating player. The at least one participating player may fold the play wager or place a raise wager and may receive additional cards to form a complete player hand. The at least one participating player may receive a payout for the play wager, the raise wager, and the hand comparison wager for having a point total equal to or lower than either a predetermined point total or lower than a dealer point total and may receive a payout for the hand composition wager when the complete player hand includes at least one ace. Systems, gaming tables, and electronic gaming machines may perform such wagering methods.
A video gaming system is disclosed that includes one or more game processors, one or more video displays, an apparatus for a player to control the play of the game, and a memory device. The memory device stores software to control the game processor and is configured to: enable the player to select a virtual game to play from a plurality of virtual games on a virtual game floor; display play by the player of the selected game on the one or more video displays; display virtual gameplay of the non-selected games from the plurality of virtual games on a virtual game floor; display on the one or more video displays an outcome history of the play of the selected games; and enable the player to choose to begin playing a non-selected game instead of the selected game from the plurality of virtual games on a virtual game floor.
Methods of administering games of roulette may involve accepting a wager may from a player. A multiplier may be randomly selected from a group of fixed multipliers for a payout on the wager. A number and associated color may be randomly generated from within a range of numbers and associated colors. The wager may be resolved by determining whether the randomly generated number is identical to a randomly generated number from an immediately preceding round. A payout may be paid to the player when the randomly generated number is identical to the randomly generated number from the immediately preceding round, an amount of the payout being equal to an amount of the wager multiplied by the randomly selected multiplier. The amount of the wager may be collected for the house when the randomly generated number is different from the randomly generated number from the immediately preceding round.
Systems and methods of operating a major progressive jackpot linked to wagering games having different jackpot triggers with different probabilities. The major jackpot winning probabilities may be normalized such that players may have the substantially the same odds to win the major progressive jackpot regardless on the wagering game being played. During game play, the gaming stations may be randomly selected to participate for a chance to win the major progressive jackpot according to an eligibility probability, which may be inversely proportional to the probability of a jackpot trigger for the wagering game administered by the gaming station. Players may be informed of whether the current round of game play is eligible for the major progressive jackpot after wagers are placed and before the current round of game play.
Systems and methods for providing culturally configured awards are disclosed. Awards to players are divided into sub-components expressed in culturally favorable number digits, such as "8." A community award feature when triggered enables players to package awards as apparent gifts to other eligible players of the feature. A progressive award may also be provided.
A card feed system for feeding cards into a card handling system. The card feed system includes a card input compartment with a playing card support surface, a front wall, a rear wall and two side walls. The playing card support surface slopes toward the front wall at an angle between 12 degrees and 22 degrees. A slot is provided in the front wall to allow single cards to pass into the card handling system. The card feed system also includes a card moving system to advance cards through the slot.
Gaming assemblies comprise a playing surface including at least one screen display. A system projects visual light on the screen display. A radiation source illuminates objects placed over the screen display. A radiation sensor senses at least a portion of the objects placed over the screen display. A control circuit utilizes data from the radiation sensor. Methods of operating gaming tables and wagering game systems may include such gaming assemblies.
A system, method and apparatus are set forth which adjusts one or more of the brightness, vibrancy and color shift of displayed content based upon the at least approximate age of the viewer. At a display (15) the user's age is at least approximated by accessing an established user data file (835, 837) containing age determining data and/or capturing a facial image (804) of the user and processing the same to determine at least the approximate age of the user. Based upon the age determination the brightness, vibrancy and/or color shift may be adjusted to account for the effects of the aging of the human eye. User overrides (900, 902, 904) may be provided for the user to alter or turn off the adjustments. Adjustment of the brightness, vibrancy and/or color shift may also take into account ambient light conditions.
Chip sorting devices and methods of ejecting chips from chip wells are disclosed. In some embodiments, chip sorting devices may include at least one chip ejection unit including at least one finger member selectively movable between a first position outside of at least one channel of a chip conveying unit and a second position within the at least one channel. In additional embodiments, a chip sorting device may include a separating wheel comprising a plurality of chip wells, each chip well configured to hold a plurality of chips. In yet additional embodiments, methods of ejecting a chip from a chip well may include urging a selected chip out of the chip well with the at least one finger member and at least one wall segment of a trailing segmented wall of the chip well.
Various embodiments directed to systems and methods that enable cross platform persistent gaming sessions using a mobile device in a mobile device-enhanced system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method may include enabling a cross platform gaming session in a system that includes a gaming machine that presents a game, and a computing device distinct from the gaming machine, both in communication with one another. The method may include associating the computing device with the gaming machine. The computing device may have one or more displays. The method may include receiving, by the computing device, reformatted graphical data from the gaming machine. The method may include presenting the game on the one or more displays of the computing device using the reformatted graphical data.
A63F 13/30 - Interconnection arrangements between game servers and game devicesInterconnection arrangements between game devicesInterconnection arrangements between game servers
A63F 13/40 - Processing input control signals of video game devices, e.g. signals generated by the player or derived from the environment
51.
BET SENSORS, GAMING TABLES WITH ONE OR MORE BET SENSORS, AND RELATED METHODS
A bet sensor for determining the value of a wager includes a transparent cover having a bet placement surface configured and oriented to support a stack of gaming tokens thereon. A mirror arrangement is disposed on an opposing side of the transparent cover from the bet placement surface. The bet sensor also includes an image sensor. The mirror arrangement is located and configured to direct an image of a lateral side surface of a stack of gaming tokens supported on the bet placement surface onto the image sensor. A gaming table may incorporate such a bet sensor. Methods of forming such bet sensors include disposing a mirror arrangement on an opposing side of a transparent cover from a bet placement surface, and locating an image sensor such that the mirror arrangement directs an image of a lateral side surface of a stack of gaming tokens onto the image sensor.
An automatic card handling device (110), having a card handling device (130) that includes a controller, said card handling device configured for shuffling an input set of cards and delivering an output set of cards resulting from the shuffling; and a communication module (146) operably coupled to the controller, wherein the communication module is configured for sending and receiving information related to operation of the card handling device across a communication port (148) configured for operable coupling to a cellular network (136), wherein said information related to the operation of the automatic card handling device includes information about the use of said card handling device; and wherein a factor in a usage fee for said card handling device is said use of said card handling device.
A method of automatically generating a calibration file for a card handling device comprises automatically generating a calibration file stored in memory of a main control system for a card handling device. Automatically generating the calibration file comprises identifying at least one parameter associated with a rank area around a rank of the at least a portion of the card, identifying at least one parameter associated with a suit area around a suit of the at least a portion of the card, and storing the at least one parameter associated with the rank area and the at least one parameter associated with the suit area in the calibration file. Additionally, a method of automatically generating deck libraries for one or more decks of cards comprises automatically generate a plurality of master images for the cards of the first deck type using the parameters from the calibration file.
Methods and apparatuses for displaying information relating to a roulette game. A roulette game display comprises at least one of a hot bet field, a number frequency field, and an even-money bet road chart. The hot bet field displays a message including information relating to a highest ranking event stored in an event history. The number frequency field includes an arrangement of indicator spaces configured for marking to show recent results of a plurality of roulette wheel spins. The even-money bet road chart includes a grid for displaying a plurality of recently winning even-money bets.
A multi-game action button deck in a concurrent gaming system is disclosed. The system includes at least one gaming machine in communication with a game server via a network, a display manager, a multi-game action button, and a touch sensor. The display manager is configured to display content related to one or more games to be played on the display areas of the gaming machine, wherein the content includes at least one game display area and a virtual button deck display area associated with each game. The display manager resizes and repositions the streaming video content on the display areas of the gaming machine depending on the game themes that are selected and the number of games that are selected. The multi-game action button is displayed on the virtual button deck, wherein the multi-game action button has multiple touch areas to control different combinations of games.
Disclosed is a method for enabling cross platform persistent gaming sessions using a mobile device in a system that includes a game server, a network, one or more gaming machines, and one or more mobile devices. The method includes: associating a player's mobile device with one of the one or more gaming machines at which the player has a gaming session; presenting a player with an option to move their gaming experience to their mobile device when the player leaves the associated gaming machine if a gaming session is in progress; enabling the player to use its mobile device to continue playing a game after the player has left a proximity of the associated gaming machine by transferring the game from the associated gaming machine to the player's mobile device; and enabling transfer of funds between the associated gaming machine and the players' mobile device.
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
Automatic card shufflers include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting shuffled cards from the card shuffler. The card storage device may include a movable rack configured to move vertically within the card shuffler. The movable rack may have a plurality of card storage compartments therein, each of which may be sized and configured to hold two cards therein. The card output mechanism includes a movable ejector configured to simultaneously eject cards out from two or more card storage compartments of the movable rack. Related methods include methods of fabricating such card shufflers, and methods of using such card shufflers.
Disclosed is a method for enabling an augmented reality interaction system and a mobile device to overlay a virtual 3D component over a physical 3D component with which the virtual 3D component interacts. The method includes: enabling a user to capture a live camera image of a gaming machine cabinet via a camera on the mobile device; determining if there are image tags on the gaming machine cabinet in the live camera image; producing a virtual rendering of the gaming machine cabinet; determining virtual 3D components to be displayed over an image of a virtual gaming machine cabinet; comparing a virtual depth rendering of the virtual 3D components to a virtual depth rendering of the virtual gaming machine cabinet; and overlaying virtual 3D components without the subtracted elements onto a live camera image of the virtual gaming machine cabinet on a display of the mobile device.
Methods and systems for administering wagering games are disclosed. A sample method comprises accepting a first wager from a player, the first wager being added to a first pot; accepting a second wager from the player, the second wager being added to a second pot; dealing cards to each player; resolving the first wager according to a set of game rules, wherein a winning player wins at least a portion of the first pot at the conclusion of each round of play; in response to an occurrence of a predetermined event, awarding a payout from the second pot to one or more players contributed to the second pot.
An interactive financial transactions systems and methods are disclosed for providing gaming activity using funds located at a financial institution. Prior to initiating gaming activity, the player indicates the amount of funds the player would like to wager in a session. The financial institution is contacted to block the player funds from being used for another purpose while the player is placing wagers on the interactive gaming system. As the player completes wagers, the results of wagering activities may be passed to the financial institution. When the player completes the gaming session, the financial institution is instructed to release the blocked funds. In one embodiment, the interactive gaming system contacts an intermediary business which performs the account blocking and financial transactions with the financial institution.
G06Q 20/02 - Payment architectures, schemes or protocols involving a neutral third party, e.g. certification authority, notary or trusted third party [TTP]
G06Q 20/10 - Payment architectures specially adapted for electronic funds transfer [EFT] systemsPayment architectures specially adapted for home banking systems
G06Q 50/34 - Betting or bookmaking, e.g. Internet betting
A network based play for fun gaming system and method that includes allocating a first number of achievable elements to said player based at least in part on at least one of a number of games completed by a user, a total amount of said wagers of said player in one or more games, and/or a total amount of winnings and/or losses by a player, wherein said achievable elements do not affect the game outcome. The achievable elements may also be purchased by a player and used to unlock additional features, speed play, assign additional players, provide additional features, provide additional bonuses, and/or provide a user the option to modify the player's play for fun experience.
A gaming system, a network gaming architecture, and related methods are disclosed that provides game content to server-based gaming platforms. Players access game content and place wagers on through a client server. The client server may act as a thin client to the gaming platform such that the client server establishes the communication link to a remote gaming engine that performs game play processing. The gaming system includes the remote gaming engine, which may comprise a game rules server configured to administer a set of game rules for the wagering game, and a deck server that randomly selects game pieces according to the set of game rules. A network gaming architecture includes separating functions that require regulation on one set of regulated servers, and functions that do not require regulation on at least one unregulated server.
A simulated musical interface associated with a gaming machine enhances player excitement and interaction with the gaming machine. In one embodiment, the simulated musical interface is associated with a game in which the player uses the interface to play a simulated instrument on a gaming machine to affect, or apparently affect, the outcome of the game. As the player plays the simulated instrument via the simulated musical interface, indicia or graphical representations may be generated for a game of chance on a display associated with the gaming machine.
A method is disclosed of enabling a player to use remote home terminals or mobile devices via a network to enroll in a casino tournament gaming system, in addition to winning prizes offered as an outcome of a primary game on underlying gaming machines located in a casino. The method includes enabling enrollment in the casino tournament gaming system to form tournament teams via remote home terminals or mobile devices, wherein the system uses existing social networks to leverage pre-existing relationships between players that are members of the social network to form tournament teams; enabling play of a game of chance on the underlying gaming machines that award game credits that are redeemable for a payout and are controlled by overall payout percentages relating to the game of chance; and facilitating entry into one or more skill-based tournament games in the player's tournament team against other tournament teams.
A card feed system for feeding cards into a card handling system. The card feed system includes a card input compartment with a playing card support surface, a front wall, a rear wall and two side walls. The playing card support surface slopes toward the front wall at an angle between 12 degrees and 22 degrees. A slot is provided in the front wall to allow single cards to pass into the card handling system. The card feed system also includes a card moving system to advance cards through the slot.
A playing card handling device comprising a card storing area that supports a stack of playing cards, the storing area having a playing card support surface, including a card removing system that removes playing cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm is moved by a motor between at least two positions, wherein in a first position the end of the arm opposite a pivot is disengaged from a playing card at the top of the stack and in a second position the end of the arm is engaged with a playing card at the top of the stack. A processor directs movement of the pivoting arm between its position when a predetermined number of cards is present in the card storing area of the card handling device.
Card handling system including shuffling device (12), shoe device (14), and a card transfer system for automatically transferring cards from the shuffling device into the shoe device. Shuffling device may include a divider (34) configured to contact at least one card positioned within a compartment of the shuffling device. Shoe device may include a card loading system (86) for loading cards into a card storage area (88) through an opening (92) in a base of the shoe device. Method of providing cards during a casino table game play include identifying card information including a rank and a suit of each card in a shuffling device and a shoe device and transporting cards from the shuffling device to the shoe device.
Systems and methods for authenticating and validating a device are disclosed herein. In one method, a manifest file is created for a gaming component, wherein the manifest file includes contents of each file from the gaming component. A digital signature is generated for each file from the gaming component, wherein the digital signature is created by using the contents of each file. Each digital signature is saved with each file in the manifest file. A digital signature calculation is performed on a file accessed during a bootup process. The contents of the accessed file are validated by comparing the calculated digital signature to the saved digital signature, and an error message is presented on a video display when the contents of the accessed file is not validated.
Various embodiments are directed to a gaming device that uses an internal hard drive for primary media storage. The software is installed on the hard drive without requiring physical access to the hard drive including, but not limited to, removal or replacement of the hard drive. According to one method, an install flash program is used to format and/or reformat an internal hard drive. Additionally, the install flash program is used to install media stored on a removable storage device onto the internal hard drive.
Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a gesture enhanced game play system that includes a display subsystem, a sensor subsystem, and one or more computing subsystems. The display subsystem is configured to display images related to one or more games to be played on at least a first game playing surface. The images include a virtual game layout having a number of demarcations of at least one area associated with the play of the one or more games. The sensor subsystem is configured to detect at least one physical aspect of at least one game related piece when the game related piece is at least proximate the virtual game layout. The one or more computing subsystems communicatively coupled to the display subsystem to control the images displayed by the display subsystem.
Chip sorting devices and methods of ejecting chips from chip wells are disclosed. In some embodiments, chip sorting devices may include at least one chip ejection unit including at least one finger member selectively movable between a first position outside of at least one channel of a chip conveying unit and a second position within the at least one channel. In additional embodiments, a chip sorting device may include a separating wheel comprising a plurality of chip wells, each chip well configured to hold a plurality of chips. In yet additional embodiments, methods of ejecting a chip from a chip well may include urging a selected chip out of the chip well with the at least one finger member and at least one wall segment of a trailing segmented wall of the chip well.
Gaming machines projecting video images onto a curved display are disclosed herein. A Display Manager receives one or more video signals from a Master Gaming Controller and one or more video signals from the system device and displays one or multiple video signals on the curved display. The Display Manager sends the multiple video signals to a digital light emitting projector which projects the multiple video signals simultaneously on the curved display. The curved display may be split between multiple signals, or one or more signals may overlay one or more background signals. The overlaid signals may completely obscure the background signals, or they may provide a level of transparency by allowing the background signal to be partially or completely visible. The Display Manager receives commands from a device, directing it how to split, overlay, superimpose, and otherwise share the display among the video input signals.
Configurable rotatable displays may allow display of visual effects and/or information, and may simulate a non-configurable mechanical reel, for example those found in conventional slot machines. Rotatable displays may be used in a variety of locations on a gaming machine, providing a primary game display and/or top box displays such as a pole. A single rotatable display may be logically segmented to create an appearance of multiple sections or reels. One or more rotatable displays, or one or more mechanical reels, may be positioned within an outer rotatable display. A configurable fixed translucent or transparent display may be positioned between a configurable rotatable display and a user or player.
Playing card handling devices, such as shufflers, dealing shoes, discard racks and verification systems are rotatably secured to a gaming table to allow for functional and ergonomic adjustment of the card handling device, without removal from the gaming table. One end of the device, preferably a front end of the device from which playing cards may be removed has a structure that extends through an aperture in the gaming table. The device is movable within the aperture. Movement in the X-Y direction, angular movement and rotational movement, parallel to the movement of the plane of the surface of the gaming table is enabled. The movement of the device about the aperture preferably maintains the base of the device relatively parallel to the plane of the surface of the gaming table.
A system or method providing a player to cashout half of credits accumulated during gaming. Anonymous cashing out of credit is available to a player through routes both external and internal to a gaming machine.
A message oriented middleware server application executable by at least one processor implements a message oriented middleware message provider that mediates messaging operations with a plurality of heterogeneous applications including a number of casino gaming applications, where instances of the heterogeneous applications which execute on the plurality of networked processor-based client devices including the networked processor-based casino gaming devices.
The claimed embodiments contemplate methods, systems and apparatuses directed to an active display button. In various embodiments, an active display button may generally be a button containing one or more elements that move when the button is engaged. By example, and not limitation, these elements may include one or more reels, be they mechanical or video, or perhaps a rotating indicator. The active display button may also include lights, vibratory motors and other experience-enhancing implements. The active display button may be installed on a machine and operated in conjunction with the machine, separate from the machine on which it is installed or perhaps as part of the operation of the machine.
A63F 13/02 - Accessories (input or output arrangements for electrical digital computers G06F 3/00)
G06F 3/00 - Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computerOutput arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
H01H 13/52 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a single operating member the contact returning to its original state immediately upon removal of operating force, e.g. bell push switch
A63F 13/12 - involving interaction between a plurality of game devices, e.g. transmission or distribution systems
A Web page is received at a gaming device from a Web server device and then displayed. Information indicative of a player's interaction with the Web page is received at the Web server device. The Web server device sends a request to a gaming property server device based at least in part on the interaction, and the gaming property server device sends a reply to the Web server device. The Web server device then provides Web content to the gaming device based at least in part on the reply. A display of the gaming device is changed based at least in part on the Web content.
G06Q 50/00 - Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
G06F 3/048 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]
80.
NETWORKED GAMING SYSTEM WITH ENTERPRISE ACCOUNTING METHODS AND APPARATUS
A computerized management system and methods including accounting, auditing, and correcting systems and processes are disclosed for use with game and/or gaming devices, systems, and methods enable users to remotely monitor, control, and modify financial data, reports, and information related to game and/or gaming machines and apparatuses of different classes, for example Class II and Class III gaming machines and table games, and different facilities, such as Class III gaming establishments, bingo establishments, and lottery establishments.
G06Q 50/00 - Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
G06Q 40/00 - FinanceInsuranceTax strategiesProcessing of corporate or income taxes
81.
METHOD, SYSTEM, APPARATUS, AND ARTICLE OF MANUFACTURE FOR PROFILE-DRIVEN CONFIGURATION FOR ELECTRONIC GAMING MACHINES (EGMS)
Changes to configuration settings of disparate electronic gaming machines (EGMs) are indicated in a profile. The profile provides generalized values for the configuration settings and can provide a time schedule in which the changes are to be performed. The generalized values of the configuration settings are translated into specific values for particular EGMs. The EGMs may be interrogated to obtain current specific values of their configuration settings. The current specific values of the configuration settings are changed to the specific values translated from the generalized values provided in the profile.
G06F 15/16 - Combinations of two or more digital computers each having at least an arithmetic unit, a program unit and a register, e.g. for a simultaneous processing of several programs
G06Q 50/00 - Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
82.
GAME TRANSACTION MODULE INTERFACE TO SINGLE PORT PRINTER
A gaming device includes a game module for presenting instances of a game title and a game transaction module for interfacing with a system controller of a game entertainment center. The gaming device further includes a printer for printing various items such as tickets, coupons, vouchers, and other promotional material. The gaming device further includes a printer manager for arbitrating print job conflicts.
A gaming machine is configured to selectively provide instances of a primary game and instances of a secondary game. Instances of the secondary game may be provided based at least on outcomes of primary games. The gaming machine may provide instances of the secondary game based at least on a number of secondary game credits. The number of secondary game credits may be associated with a player of the gaming machine. The number of secondary game credits may be awarded to a player of the gaming machine based at least on an outcome of the primary game and/or an outcome of the secondary game. The gaming machine may provide instances of the secondary game based at least on a number of available secondary game credits. The number of available secondary game credits may be based at least on a number of secondary game credits and/or a number of other credits.
G06Q 50/00 - Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
84.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED CUSTOMER ACCOUNT CREATION AND MANAGEMENT
A method and system to automatically create and manage patron accounts using electronic data capture at an automated machine or kiosk, including electronically obtaining personal patron identification information from a patron identification source, such as a driver's license, determining if a patron account exists and if the identification source has expired and updating any existing patron account with the captured data. If the patron identification source is current and no account exists, a temporary account is created and a temporary patron account card supplied to the patron along with promotional offers. Patron activity is monitored at the location and used in creating a permanent patron account for providing additional offers, bonuses, and the like to the patron.
G06F 15/16 - Combinations of two or more digital computers each having at least an arithmetic unit, a program unit and a register, e.g. for a simultaneous processing of several programs
A gaming device operable to accept wagers in a plurality of bet denominations accepts a first wager associated with a first bet denomination and a second wager associated with a second, different bet denomination. The first wager is then logically associated with a first progressive jackpot, and the second wager is logically associated with a second progressive jackpot different than the first progressive jackpot.
The resources of a gaming device may be partitioned to create a first virtual machine and a second virtual machine. A first application is executed in a first operating system executing on the first virtual machine, and a second application is executed in a second operating system executing on the second virtual machine.
Techniques are describe for providing group play events with multiple game devices. Group play events are triggered by any game device that qualifies to participate, so that when any qualifying game device triggers a group play event, all qualifying game devices participate in the group play event. In some situations, a probability for triggering a group play event is adjusted to accommodate for a dynamically changing number of game devices that qualify over time.
Techniques are described for providing group play bonus events with multiple game devices. A group play bonus event is initiated based in part on the occurrence of a group play bonus event trigger. End users of game devices participate in an initiated group play bonus event if the end users qualify to participate in the group play bonus event at the time of the occurrence of the group play bonus event trigger. In some situations, group play bonus events are initiated by the occurrence of a randomly generated group play bonus event trigger.
G06Q 50/00 - Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
89.
BIOFEEDBACK FOR A GAMING DEVICE, SUCH AS AN ELECTRONIC GAMING MACHINE (EGM)
Environmental feedback and/or biofeedback is associated with one or more players' emotions in real time. The emotional feedback is provided to a game device being used by the player, such an electronic gaming machine (EGM). The game device uses the biofeedback and/or environmental feedback to appropriately adjust the game play to maximize the game's entertainment value to the player(s). The player(s) can be identified, and the game device matches the emotional response with certain game elements being presented at that time and associates this matching to the identified player. The matches can be used to make an adjustment to the game device, to the environments, and/or to take some other action. The game device can also store the matches, combined with any collected environmental and/or biometric stimuli, on a game server or player tracking database via the network. Previous environmental/biometric information can be used to make immediate adjustments to the game or environment, or incorporated into future game design and environmental design.
A63F 13/00 - Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
A63F 13/06 - using player-operated means for controlling the position of a specific area on the display
G06F 3/00 - Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computerOutput arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
Patron information generated at an originating gaming property may be transmitted to a requesting gaming property based on a set of permissions associated with a group of gaming properties. Vouchers generated at a first gaming property may also be redeemed at a second gaming property.
G06Q 50/00 - Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
G06F 15/16 - Combinations of two or more digital computers each having at least an arithmetic unit, a program unit and a register, e.g. for a simultaneous processing of several programs
91.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OUT-OF-BAND GAMING MACHINE MANAGEMENT
Gaming machines may be remotely accessed by a gaming machine management server. The gaming machine management server may access a respective gaming machine while the respective gaming machine is powered off. The gaming machine management server may access a respective gaming machine while the respective gaming machine is powered on and concurrently while an operating system of the respective gaming machine is being executed.
A gaming device accepts a wager. The wager is logically associated with a first progressive jackpot, the first progressive jackpot associated with a first set of participating gaming devices. The wager is also logically associated with a second progressive jackpot different than the first progressive jackpot, the second progressive jackpot associated with a second set of participating gaming devices, the second set of participating gaming devices comprising more gaming devices than the first set of participating gaming devices.
A user interface for management of network operations, particularly networked electronic gaming machines, the user interface including operation assignment interfaces, each assignment interface providing information about the respective operation, a calendar interface on which the assignment interfaces are provided, the calendar interface providing at least date and time information, and at least one graphical linking indicator that provides visual relational information of related operations.
G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions
G06F 15/16 - Combinations of two or more digital computers each having at least an arithmetic unit, a program unit and a register, e.g. for a simultaneous processing of several programs
94.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DYNAMICALLY AWARDING BONUS POINTS
A player of an enhanced game receives a bonus for playing the enhanced game and a chance for an additional extra award. The additional extra award may be based on one or more factors: the actual game title of the game being played by the player, the rate of gameplay by the player, the rate of gain/loss for an entity different from the player, a rate of gain/loss for the player, or the like. Gameplay and player data may be gathered and a dynamic bonusing system may reconfigure a gaming machine being played by the player based at least on the gathered data.
A gaming property may host a tournament having a tournament duration. Tournament games having timed tournament sessions shorter than the tournament duration may be played on the gaming property, and the tournament scores achieved in the tournament games may be compared. A winning player of the tournament may then be chosen based on the comparison.
The license manager system and method provides an automated process that reduces the need for human interaction associated with licensing components, distribution of the same, product distribution, debugging, product building, assembly, installation, configuration and maintenance. In addition, there is an interface for use by regulators that allows the regulators to test and to receive notifications from the license manager. Finally, there is a third party interface to facilitate equipment add-ons to the system. The license management system and method provides enablement/ disablement of software products, generation and maintenance of accounting records, and logs for licenses that are generated and distributed throughout the system. An audit trail is also created that includes who authorized the purchase of the license, as well as audit trails relating to different system levels to verify system security. Finally, a change notification system provides for the control of any changes to the system and monitors these changes on a multi-tiered level within the system.
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communicationsNetwork security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
97.
VIDEO SWITCHER AND TOUCH ROUTER DEVICE FOR A GAMING MACHINE
A Display Manager is placed between the Master Gaming Controller and its Main Game Display and any Secondary Display and between the Player Tracking Unit connected to the casino system network (e.g., player tracking device) and its System display. The Display Manager receives one or more video signals from the Master Gaming Controller and one or more video signals from the system device and displays one or multiple video signals on one or more shared displays. One of the video signals may be presented alone on one of the displays, with the other signal absent from that shared display, or multiple signals may be simultaneously displayed on one of the shared displays. The screen may be split between multiple signals, or one or more signals may overlay one or more background signals. The overlaid signals may completely obscure the background signals, or they may provide a level of transparency by allowing the background signal to be partially or completely visible. Also, the overlaid signal may provide different levels of transparency in different areas of the display, effectively superimposing an image on top of the background signal. The Display Manager receives commands from a device, directing it how to split, overlay, superimpose, and otherwise share the display among the video input signals.
Networked gaming systems with anonymous player biometric identification and tracking, and associated methods, are disclosed. Also disclosed are a responsible gaming system and method, an anonymous player Bonusing method and system, a money laundering identification system and method, a distributed casino surveillance system and on electronic gaming machines, and a method and system for electronic reconfiguration and/or download of a gaming machine based upon anonymous player identification using biometrics at the gaming device.
Various embodiments are directed to gaming systems, gaming devices, and methods for presenting tournament games. The gaming system includes a tournament server in communication with a plurality of gaming devices as well as a plurality of tournament displays positioned throughout a gaming establishment. In one embodiment, the gaming devices are configured to enable concurrent play of a base game and an on-demand tournament game in which the on-demand tournament game is player initiated. Alternatively, the base game presented on the gaming devices are reconfigured from a normal mode to a tournament mode. The tournament server manages play of the tournament game, and the tournament server also sends tournament information to the tournament displays near the location of active and eligible players of the tournament game.
Disclosed are a game and method for a wagering game including a Sudoku-like element. A feature game playable after determination of the primary game outcome includes an award associated with placement of one or more indicia (401-409) on a grid (450) such that no two indicia are the same in at least one of a row, a column or a diagonal of the grid.