Systems and methods for determining that a gaming device is communicating with a gaming server
20 claims: 2 independent, 18 dependent
- 1携帯ゲーム機が ゲームサーバ と通信していることを検証する方法であって、 検証サーバのプロセッサが、前記ゲームサーバに接続されている 前記携帯ゲーム機を使用するプレーヤ の 個人情報 を検証デバイスから 受信するステップであって、 前記検証デバイスは、 ゲーム施設のゲームエリアに静止して配置されたキオスク内に配置され るものであり、 前記キオスクが、 自己が備えるリーダにて取得された前記個人情報を前記検証デバイスに送信する、 前記ステップと、 前記検証サーバのプロセッサが、 前記 個人情報を 保存するステップと、 前記検証サーバのプロセッサが、 前記携帯ゲーム機が 前記 ゲームサーバと通信していることを検証することの要求を、前記携帯ゲーム機 から 受け取るステップと、 前記要求に応じて、 前記検証サーバの 前記プロセッサが、前記 個人情報 を前記ゲームサーバ を介して 前記携帯ゲーム機に送るステップと、 を含む方法。
- 2前記携帯ゲーム機は、前記携帯ゲーム機を使用している プレーヤ へ少なくとも1つのゲーム行為を供給するように操作可能なデバイスを含む、 請求項1に記載の方法。
- 3前記 個人情報 は、音声通信ネットワークを介して通信可能な音声信号を含む、 請求項1に記載の方法。
- 4前記 個人情報 を保存することは、識別情報を使用して前記 個人情報 を保存することを含む、 請求項1に記載の方法。
- 5前記識別情報は、以下の少なくとも1つを含む:前記携帯ゲーム機を使用している前記 プレーヤ の名前、 前記携帯ゲーム機を使用している前記 プレーヤ と関連したセキュリティ情報、 前記携帯ゲーム機に割り当てられる追跡値、および 前記携帯ゲーム機に割り当てられる名前。 請求項4に記載の方法。
- 6前記検証デバイスから前記識別情報を受け取ることをさらに含む、 請求項4に記載の方法。
- 7前記携帯ゲーム機との通信に基づいて前記識別情報を決定することをさらに含む、 請求項4に記載の方法。
- 8前記検証デバイスがライセンスされたサーバと通信していることを前記 プレーヤ が確認できるように、前記検証デバイスを使用している プレーヤ に情報を送ることをさらに含む、 請求項1に記載の方法。
- 9前記リーダは、光学スキャナを含み、前記 プレーヤ からの光学データが前記検証デバイスに送信される、 請求項1に記載の方法。
- 10前記リーダは、RFIDトランシーバーを含み、前記携帯ゲーム機に配置されたRFID情報 であって前記個人情報を含むRFID情報 が前記検証デバイスに送信される、 請求項1に記載の方法。
- 11ネットワークインターフェースと、 少なくとも一つのプロセッサを含み、 前記少なくとも一つのプロセッサが、 ゲームサーバに接続されている 携帯ゲーム機を使用するプレーヤ の 個人情報 を検証デバイスから 受信するステップであって、 前記検証デバイスは、 ゲーム施設のゲームエリアに静止して配置されたキオスク内に配置され るものであり、 前記キオスクが、 自己が備えるリーダにて取得された前記個人情報を検証デバイスに送信する 、前記ステップと、 前記 個人情報 を保存するステップと、 前記携帯ゲーム機が 前記 ゲームサーバと通信していることを検証することの要求を、前記携帯ゲーム機から受け取るステップと、 前記要求に応じて、前記 個人情報 を 前記ゲームサーバを介して 前記携帯ゲーム機に送るステップと、 を実行する、 装置。
- 12前記携帯ゲーム機は、前記携帯ゲーム機を使用している プレーヤ へ少なくとも1つのゲーム行為を供給するように操作可能なデバイスを含む、 請求項11に記載の装置。
- 13前記 個人情報 は、音声通信ネットワークを介して通信可能な音声信号を含む、 請求項11に記載の装置。
- 14前記 個人情報 を保存することは、識別情報を使用して前記 個人情報 を保存することを含む、 請求項11に記載の装置。
- 15前記識別情報は、以下の少なくとも1つを含む:前記携帯ゲーム機を使用している前記 プレーヤ の名前、 前記携帯ゲーム機を使用している前記 プレーヤ と関連したセキュリティ情報、 前記携帯ゲーム機に割り当てられる追跡値、および 前記携帯ゲーム機に割り当てられる名前。 請求項14に記載の装置。
- 16前記少なくとも一つのプロセッサが、前記検証デバイスから前記識別情報を受け取ることをさらに含む、 請求項14に記載の装置。
- 17前記少なくとも一つのプロセッサが、前記携帯ゲーム機との通信に基づいて前記識別情報を決定することをさらに含む、 請求項14に記載の装置。
- 18前記少なくとも一つのプロセッサが、前記検証デバイスがライセンスされたサーバと通信していることを前記 プレーヤ が確認できるように、前記検証デバイスを使用している プレーヤ に情報を送ることをさらに含む、 請求項11に記載の装置。
- 19前記リーダは、光学スキャナを含み、前記 プレーヤ からの光学データが前記検証デバイスに送信される、 請求項11に記載の装置。
- 20前記リーダは、RFIDトランシーバーを含み、前記携帯ゲーム機に配置されたRFID情報 であって前記個人情報を含むRFID情報 が前記検証デバイスに送信される、 請求項11に記載の装置。
Independent claims20
147 paragraphs, as filed
The present invention relates to a distributed gaming system for providing one or more gaming actions and possibly other useful services to one or more players, such as a player.
This application relates to the following US patent applications, each incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for the purposes of entitlement and documented description: Serial of 2/3/2004 application. No. 10/771221, 10/771076 for 2/3/2004, 10/759693 for 1/15/2004, 10/687302 for 10/14/2003, 10/667923, 9 for 9/22/2003 / 22/2003 application 10/667755, 9/3/2003 application 10/654280, 8/29/2003 application 10/651537, 7/12/2002 application 10/194186, 7/12/2002 application 10/194019, 10/194018 of 7/12/2002 application, 10/193980 of 7/12/2002 application, 10/193978 of 7/12/2002 application, 10/193977 of 7/12/2002 application, 7/ 10/193971 of 12/2002 application, 10/193817 of 7/12/2002 application, 09/846 of 4/30/2001 application025, 8/20/1999 application 09/378327, 3/12/1999 application 9/267865, 4/18/06 application 11/406783, 12/22/2004 application 11/022394, 12/22/ 11/021848 of 2004 application, 11/018978 of 12/21/2004 application, 10/983279 of 11/5/2004 application, 10/963399 of 10/12/2004 application, 10/879972 of 6/28/2004 application , 4/29/2004 application 10/836999, 4/29/2004 application 10/836975, 4/29/2004 application 10/836958, 4/29/2004 application 10/836077, 4/29/2004 10/835995 of the application, 11/171809 of the 6/29/2005 application, 11/076561 of the 3/9/2005 application, 11/063311 of the 2/21/2005 application, 11/032724 of the 1/10/2005 application, 4/12/2004 application 10/822484, 4/1/2004 application 10/816238, 3/10/2004 application 10/798106, 2/23/2004 application 10/784353, 4/12/2006 application 11/403722, 4/3/2006 application 11/397596, 1/18/2006 application 11/335253, 1/18/2006 application 11/335210, 1/18/2006 application 11/33484, 10 / 21/2005 filing 11/256568, 8/24/2005 filing 11/210482, 8/10/2005 filing 11/201830, 8/10/2005 filing 11/201812, 8/9/2005 filing 11/199964, 8/9/2005 filing 11/199835, 8/9/2005 filing 11/199831, 7/26/2005 filing 11/190613, 6/29/2005 filing 11/172018, 7/ 10/616779 of 10/2003 application, 10/453769 of 6/3/2003 application, 10/453761 of 6/3/2003 application, 4/10/10 / 410,197 of 2003 application, 10 / 404,043 of 4/2/2003 application, 10 / 287,332 of 11/1/2002 application, and 10/194358 of 7/12/2002 application.
Distributed gaming systems have been proposed to provide one or more gaming actions, and perhaps other useful services, to one or more players, such as a player.
<p>Guide term for interpreting the present invention</p><p> The term "here" means "in this application, including anything that can be incorporated by reference," unless otherwise explicitly specified. </p><p> The term "product" means the composition of a machine, product, and / or material, unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> The term "process" means a process, algorithm, method, or otherwise, unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> Each process (whether called a method, algorithm or otherwise) essentially contains one or more steps, and therefore all references to a "step" or "multiple steps" of a process are referred to as "processes". It has a description that essentially precedes the term or description of such term. Therefore, any reference to a "step" or "plurality of steps" of a process in a claim has sufficient preceding description.</p><p> The terms "include", "constitute", and their variants mean "include, but are not limited to," unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> The term "plurality" means "two or more" unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> The terms "one (a)", "one (an)" and "it (the)" mean "one or more" unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> The expression "at least one of anything" is one or more of those things if such a phrase modifies more than one thing (such as a list of things), unless otherwise explicitly specified. Means a combination of. For example, the expression "at least one of a small device, a car, and a wheel" is (i) a small device, (ii) a car, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a small device and a car, (v) a small device. And wheels, (vi) cars and wheels, or (vii) cars and wheels. "At least one of what" does not mean "one of each" of the plurality of things when such an expression modifies the plurality of things.</p><p> Numerical terms such as "1" and "2" are the terms of a number when used as a radix to indicate a quantity (eg, 1 small device, 2 small devices, etc.). It means the quantity shown in, not at least the quantity shown in that number of terms. For example, the expression "one small device" does not mean "at least one small device", therefore the expression "one small device" does not include, for example, two small devices. ..</p><p> The term "represent" and such terms are not exclusive unless otherwise explicitly specified. For example, the term "represent" does not mean "represent only" unless otherwise explicitly specified. In other words, the phrase "data represents a credit card number" is both "data represents only a credit card number" and "data represents a credit card number and that data represents something else". Means.</p><p> The expression "based" does not mean "based solely" unless otherwise explicitly specified. In other words, the expression "based" means both "based on it" and "at least based on it". The expression "at least based on it" is the same as the expression "at least partially based on it".</p><p> The expression "by it" is used here only to precede a phrase or other set of words that represent only the intended result, purpose, or result of what was explicitly stated earlier. Thus, when the term "by it" is used in a claim, the clause or other word that the term "by it" modifies may further limit the claim. It does not limit the meaning or scope of.</p><p> The term "ie" and such terms mean "ie" and therefore limit the terms and expressions it describes. For example, the sentence "a computer sends data (ie, an instruction) to the Internet" explains that the term "ie" means that an "instruction" is "data" that a computer has sent to the Internet. There is.</p><p> The term "for example" and such terms mean "for example" and therefore do not limit the terms or expressions it describes. For example, in the sentence "Computer sent data (eg, instructions, data structures) to the Internet", the term "for example" means that "command" is one of the "data" that a computer can send to the Internet. It explains that it is an example, and that "data structure" is an example of "data" that a computer can send to the Internet. However, both "instructions" and "data structures" are merely examples of "data", and anything other than "instructions" and "data structures" can be "data".</p><p> The term "each" and such terms mean "take up individually." Therefore, if two or more objects have "each" qualities, each such object has its own qualities, and these qualities may differ from each other. You can, but you don't have to. For example, the expression "each of the two has its own function" means that the first such machine has one function and the second such machine also has one. It means that it has a function. The function of the first machine may or may not be the same as the function of the second machine.</p><p> A given numerical range includes all and parts of a number within that range. For example, the range "1 to 10" is particularly integers between 1 and 10 (eg 1, 2, 3, 4, ..... 9) and non-integers (eg 1.1, 1.2 ,. It shall be construed to include .. 1.9).</p><p> If two or more terms or expressions are synonymous (for example, if there is an explicit assertion that the terms or expressions are synonymous), an example of such a term / expression is another such term / expression. It does not mean that the examples must have different meanings. For example, if there is an assertion that the meaning of "includes" is synonymous with "includes but not limited to it", or if the expression "includes but does not limit to it" is used, it is called "includes". The term does not mean that it means anything other than "including but not limited to".</p><p> The term "invention", and such, means "one or more inventions" disclosed herein, unless expressly specified otherwise.</p><p> "One Embodiment", "Embodiment", "Multiple Embodiments", "The Embodiment", "One or More Embodiments", "Several Embodiments", "A Embodiment", "1 "Individual embodiment", "another embodiment", etc. refer to one or more (but not all) embodiments of the disclosed invention, unless expressly specified otherwise.</p><p> The term "modification" of an invention means one embodiment of the invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> References to "another embodiment" when describing an embodiment are described prior to another embodiment (eg, the mentioned embodiment) unless the mentioned embodiment is otherwise explicitly specified. It does not mean that it is exclusive to each other. To decide</p><p> The term "determine" and its grammatical changes (eg, determining price, determining value, determining an object that meets certain criteria) are used in an extremely broad sense. The term "determine" includes a wide range of actions, so "determine" is to calculate, computerize, process, reason, investigate, examine (eg, examine a table, database or another). (Examine the data structure), confirm, etc. can be included. Also, "determining" can include receiving (eg, receiving information), accessing (eg, accessing data in memory), and the like. In addition, "determine" can include resolution, selection, selection, confirmation, and the like.</p><p> Since the term "determine" does not mean certainty or absolute accuracy, "determine" can include estimating, reasoning, predicting, reasoning, and the like.</p><p> The term "determine" does not mean that you have to do mathematical processing, that you have to use numerical methods, and that you do not mean that you use algorithms or processing. ..</p><p> The term "determine" does not mean that a particular device must be used. Computers, for example, do not necessarily have to make decisions. Sentence format</p><p> If the limitation of the first claim covers one property as well as one or more properties (eg, the limitation of at least one small device covers one small device with one or more small devices). , And, in a second claim subordinate to the first claim, if the second claim uses the definite acronym "that" to refer to a limitation (eg, its small device). This does not mean that the first claim covers only one property, which means that the second claim covers only one property. (For example, "the small device" covers both one small device and one or more small devices).</p><p> When an ordinal number (eg, "first", "second", "third", etc.) is used as an adjective before a term, the ordinal number (unless otherwise explicitly specified) is simply specific. To indicate a property, for example, its ordinal number is used to distinguish that particular property from another property described in the same or similar terms. For example, the "first small device" can be so named simply to distinguish it from, for example, the "second small device". Therefore, simply using the ordinal numbers "1st" and "2nd" before the term "small device" does not indicate any other relationship between the two small devices. Similarly, it does not represent the other properties of either one or both of its small devices. For example, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "1st" and "2nd" before the term "small device" is as follows: (1) Either "small device" may be ordered or positioned in front of or behind it. It does not indicate that it will come and go; (2) it does not indicate that either small device will occur or act first or later in time, but (3) either small device However, it does not indicate whether it is high or low in terms of importance or quality. In addition, the mere use of ordinal numbers does not specify a numerical limitation on the properties identified by the ordinal number. For example, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "small device" does not indicate that more than one small device must not exist.</p><p> If one device or article is listed here, one or more devices / articles (whether they are cooperating or not) are used alternately in place of the listed device / article. be able to. Thus, the functionality described as owned by one device can be alternately owned by one or more devices / articles (whether they are cooperating or not).</p><p> Similarly, if one or more devices or articles are described here (whether they are cooperating or not), then one device / article is one or more devices or articles described. Can be used alternately instead of. For example, a device based on multiple computers can be replaced by a device based on a single computer. Thus, the various functionality described as being owned by one or more devices or articles can be alternately owned by one device / article.</p><p> The functionality and / or properties of one device described are by one or more other devices that are described but not explicitly described as having such functionality / properties. It can be embodied alternately. Thus, other embodiments need not include the described device itself, but rather may include one or more other devices having such functionality / properties in other embodiments. it can. display</p><p> The term "display" is used in an extremely broad sense. The term "indication" includes signs, signs, or other evidence, among other things.</p><p> The term "indication" may be used to refer to any evidence and / or other information representing a subject, item, essence and / or other purpose and / or concept.</p><p> As used herein, the expressions "information representing what" and "evidence" are used to express, describe, and / or refer to information related to the essence, subject, or purpose of interest. Can be used.</p><p> Evidence of information includes, for example, codes, references, links, signals, identifiers, and / or combinations thereof, and / or other informational representations associated with that information.</p><p> In certain embodiments, evidence of information (or displaying that information) is the information itself, or contains the information, and / or is a component of that information, or contains it. be able to. In certain embodiments, certain indications may include requests, solicitations, broadcasts and / or other forms of information gathering and / or dissemination. The disclosed examples and terminology are not limited.</p><p> Neither the title of the invention (set at the beginning of the first page of the application) nor the abstract (set at the end of the application) is treated in a limited way in any way within the scope of the disclosed invention. .. The abstract is only included in this application because a abstract of 150 words or less is simply required by 37 C.FR §1.72 (b).</p><p> The titles of the inventions of this application and the headings of the parts provided in this application are provided solely for convenience and are not treated in any way as limiting this disclosure. ..</p><p> Many embodiments have been described in this application, but have been submitted for explanatory purposes only. The embodiments described are not, and are not intended to be, limiting in any way. The inventions currently disclosed are widely applicable to many embodiments, as evidenced by this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosed invention is feasible with various modifications and modifications such as structural, logical, software and electrical modifications. Specific properties of the disclosed invention may be described by one or more specific embodiments and / or drawings, such properties, unless otherwise explicitly specified. It should be understood that the embodiment is not limited to its use in the drawings referenced for its description.</p><p> Unless any of the steps of the method described in this application or any embodiment of the element of the product is expressly expressed in this specification or in the claims. , It does not establish the invention claimed here, is not essential for the invention claimed here, or does not have the same extent as the invention claimed here.</p><p> All words in all claims have a broad range of meaning given by one of ordinary skill in the art as of the priority date. No term in the claims is specifically defined or limited by this specification or, except as expressly stated in the claims.</p><p> The preamble of the following claims describes the purpose, benefit, and possible use of the claimed invention and is not limiting the claimed invention.</p><p> The present disclosure is not a literal description of all embodiments of the invention. Also, the present disclosure is not a list of the properties of the invention that must be present in all embodiments.</p><p> Devices described as communicating with each other need not be in continuous communication with each other unless otherwise explicitly specified. In contrast, such devices may transmit to each other as needed or when desired, and in fact, most of the time may refrain from exchanging data. For example, a machine communicating with another machine over the Internet does not have to send data to the other machine for a long period of time (eg, weeks at a time). In addition, devices communicating with each other can communicate with each other either directly or through one or more mediators.</p><p> The description of an embodiment having some component or feature does not mean that all or some of such component / feature is required. In contrast, various optional components are described to illustrate a wide range of possible embodiments of the present invention. No component or feature is required or required unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> Process steps, algorithms or the like are described in a particular contiguous order, but such processes can also be configured to operate in different orders. In other words, the sequence or order of steps that can be explicitly described does not necessarily imply a requirement that the steps must be performed in that order. The steps of the process described here can be performed in any practical order. In addition, some steps are described as occurring non-simultaneously (eg, because one step is described after another) or are performed simultaneously, even though they are meant. be able to. Furthermore, describing a process by drawing display does not mean that the described process is exclusive to other modifications or modifications, but to any of the described process or steps thereof. Neither does it mean that it is necessary for the invention, nor does it mean that the process described is suitable.</p><p> When a process is described as involving multiple steps, it does not mean that all or any of the steps are suitable, mandatory or necessary. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention include other processes that omit some or all of the described steps. No step is required or required unless otherwise explicitly specified.</p><p> The process can be described alone or without reference to other products or methods, but in one embodiment the process may interact with other products or methods. For example, such an interaction can include linking one business model to another. Such interactions can be provided to emphasize the flexibility and desirability of the process.</p><p> It is possible to describe a product as having multiple components, perspectives, quantities, properties and / or properties, but it states that some or all of the components are preferred, essential or necessary. Not shown. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention include other products that omit some or all of the described plurality.</p><p> The enumerated list of items (numbered or unnumbered) does not mean that some or all of the items are mutually exclusive unless otherwise explicitly specified. Similarly, an enumerated list of items (numbered or unnumbered) is comprehensive for some or all of its items, unless otherwise explicitly specified. It doesn't mean that. For example, the enumerated list "Computer, Laptop, PDA" does not mean that some or all of the three in the list are mutually exclusive, and of that list. Nor does it mean that some or all of the three items are comprehensive in all categories.</p><p> The enumerated list of items (numbered or unnumbered) means that some or all of the items are equivalent to each other or easily interchangeable with each other. Not.</p><p> All embodiments are examples, and the invention or any embodiment, as may be the case, does not imply that it has been or has been achieved.</p><p> It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various processes described herein can be carried out, for example, by properly programmed general purpose computers, dedicated computers, and arithmetic units. Typically, a processor (eg, one or more microprocessors, one or more digital signal processors) receives instructions (eg, from memory or such a device) and executes those instructions to execute its instructions. Perform one or more processes specified by the instruction.</p><p> "Processor" means one or more microprocessors, central processing unit (CPU), arithmetic unit, microcontroller, digital signal processor, etc. or a combination thereof.</p><p> Therefore, a description of a process is like a description of a device for executing that process. Devices that execute the process include, for example, a processor and appropriate input and output devices to execute the process.</p><p> In addition, programs that perform such methods (as well as other data types) can be stored and transmitted in many ways using a variety of media (eg, computer-readable media). It is possible. In certain embodiments, wired circuits or custom hardware may be used in place of or in combination with some or all of the software instructions capable of performing the processes of various embodiments. it can. Therefore, various combinations of hardware and software can be used in place of software alone.</p><p> The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium, multiple media thereof, or different media that participates in providing data that can be read by a computer, processor, or such device (eg, instructions, data structures). It is a combination of media. Such media can take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, transmission media, and the like. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other persistent memory. Volatile media typically includes dynamic random access memory (DRAM) that makes up the main memory. Transmission media includes coaxial cables, copper wires and optical fibers, including the wires that make up the system bus connected to the processor. The transmitting medium can include or carry sound waves, light waves, and electromagnetic waves, such as radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common formats of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, DVDs, other optical media, punch cards, paper tapes, hole patterns. Includes other physical media, RAM, PROM, EPROM, flash EEPROM, other memory chips, cartridges, carriers described below or other computer-readable media formats.</p><p> Various forms of computer-readable media can be involved in transporting data (eg, a set of instructions) to a processor. For example, data can be (i) transported from RAM to the processor, (ii) transmitted over wireless transmission media, (iii) Ethernet® (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth®. ), And format and / or transmit according to many formats, standards, or protocols such as TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA and 3G, and / or (iv) ensure privacy, or well in the art. It can be encrypted to prevent fraud by one of the various known methods.</p><p> Therefore, a description of a process is similar to a description of a computer read medium that stores a program to run the process. Computer reading media can store the appropriate program elements (in the appropriate format) to perform the method.</p><p> Just as the description of the various steps within a process does not indicate that all the steps described are required, the embodiment of the device is within the described process. Includes computers / computing units running to run some (but not all).</p><p> Similarly, the implementation of a computer-readable medium that stores a program or data structure, just as the description of various steps within a process does not state that all the steps described are required. Aspects include computer readable media storing programs that, when executed, allow the processor to execute some (but not necessarily all) of the described processes.</p><p> When a database is described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that (i) a database structure that replaces the described database can be easily used, and (ii) a memory structure that is different from the database can be easily used. All descriptions or descriptions of the sample database presented here are configuration as an example for the stored information representation. For example, apart from the configurations proposed in the drawings and the tables described elsewhere, other configurations can be used without limitation in number. Similarly, any described input in the database represents only exemplary information. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number and content of inputs may differ from those described herein. In addition, although the database is described as a table, other formats (relational databases, object-based models and / or distributed databases) are used to store and manipulate the data types described here. Similarly, the intended method or behavior of the database can be used to carry out various processes, such as those described herein. In addition, databases can be stored locally or indirectly from devices that access data in such databases in known ways.</p><p> Various embodiments can be configured to operate in a network environment that includes a computer that communicates with one or more devices (eg, via a communication network). Computers include wired or wireless media (eg Internet, LAN, WAN, Ethernet, token rings, telephone lines, cable lines, radio channels, optical communication lines, commercial online service providers, bulletin board systems, satellite communication links, etc. It can communicate directly or indirectly with the device via (in combination with some of the above). Each device itself consists of a computer and other computing devices such as an Intel (registered) Pentium (registered) or Centrino processor that is made to communicate with the computer. Any number of devices, any type of device, can communicate with a computer.</p><p> In some embodiments, a server computer or central authority is neither necessary nor preferable. For example, in certain embodiments, the invention can be practiced on one or more devices without the need for a central engine. In such an embodiment, any function described herein performed by the server computer, the data described to be stored on the server computer is instead performed by one or more such devices. Can be stored.</p><p> When a process is described, according to one embodiment, the process can operate without any user intervention. According to another embodiment, the process involves human intervention (eg, a step is performed with or with human assistance). 35U.SC §112, paragraph 6</p><p> In a claim, a limitation of a claim that includes the expression "means for what" or "step for what" means that 35U.SC §112, paragraph 6 applies to that limitation. doing.</p><p> In a claim, a limitation of a claim that does not include the expression "means for what" or "step for what" is that the limitation is of the structure, material, or act for performing its function. Without enumeration, 35U.SC §112, paragraph 6, does not apply to that limitation, whether or not features are enumerated. For example, in one claim, when referring to one or more steps in that claim or another claim, the expression "how many steps" or "several steps" is simply used. 35U.SC §112, paragraph 6 does not mean that it applies to that step.</p><p> 35 U.SC § 112, paragraph 6, with respect to the means or steps for performing a particular function, the corresponding structures, materials or acts described herein, and their equivalents, are the specified function. Can perform additional functions as well as.</p><p> Computers, processors, arithmetic units, and such products are structures capable of performing a wide variety of functions. Such products may achieve a particular function by executing one or more programs, such as the memory device of the product or the program stored in the memory device accessed by the product. Can be activated. Unless otherwise explicitly specified, such a program need not be based on a particular algorithm, such as the particular algorithm disclosed in this application. It is to those skilled in the art that a particular function can be performed through different algorithms and one of many different algorithms is merely a design choice for performing that particular function. Is well known.</p><p> Thus, with respect to the means or steps for performing a particular function in accordance with 35U.SC §112, paragraph 6, the structure corresponding to that particular function includes any product programmed to achieve that particular function. Such a structure is for such a product to (i) a disclosed algorithm to achieve its function, (ii) an algorithm similar to the disclosed algorithm, or (iii) to achieve its function. Includes programmed products that achieve their function, whether or not they are programmed with different algorithms. Discremer</p><p> Many references to a particular embodiment do not indicate additional, different denials or denials of the embodiment, and similarly, references to descriptions of embodiments that include a particular feature include that particular feature. It does not indicate a denial or denial of an embodiment that is not. No obvious denial or denial in this application shall be initiated by the expression "does not include" or "cannot be carried out". Continuation application</p><p> The present disclosure provides those skilled in the art with statements empowering some embodiments and / or inventions. Some of these embodiments and / or inventions cannot be claimed in this application, however, in one or more continuation applications claiming the priority interests of this application. The applicant intends to file an additional application in order to pursue a patent on a subject that is disclosed and empowered but cannot be claimed in this application. Capture by reference</p><p> Any patent, patent application or other document referred to herein is incorporated into this patent application by reference as part of this disclosure, in which case 35U.SC §112, paragraph 1. For the purposes of description and feasibility according to paragraph 1 of 35 U.SC § 112, this application fails to provide elucidated meaning in the absence of such inclusion as a reference. Rather, it should not be used to limit, establish, or understand the terms of this application if they can provide an elucidating meaning of such terms. Thus, one of ordinary skill in the art need not be limited to any of the embodiments provided in the reference.</p><p> Incorporating by reference is an endorsement of any statement, opinion, discussion, or characterization contained in the incorporated patent, patent application, or other document, unless expressly specified in this patent application. Does not mean, approval, or acquiescence. Examination progress</p><p> When interpreting this application (including claims), those skilled in the art shall refer to the examination process of this application, regardless of whether or not there are other patent applications that appear to be related to this application. It does not refer to the examination process of a patent or patent application.</p>
<figref num="1">FIG. 1 shows a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="2">FIG. 2 shows an example of a communication network according to an embodiment of the present invention that can be used in the game system of FIG.</figref><figref num="3">FIG. 3 shows an example of a process according to an embodiment of the present invention for engaging in a gaming act and / or a convenient service using the game system of FIG.</figref><figref num="4">FIG. 4 is a verification system according to an embodiment of the present invention combined with the game system of FIG. 1, which can be used to verify whether a game machine is communicating with a licensed game server. Is shown.</figref><figref num="5">FIG. 5 shows a verification service provided by the verification system of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="6">FIG. 6 shows another verification service provided by the verification system of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="7">FIG. 7 shows another verification service provided by the verification system of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="8">FIG. 8 shows another verification service provided by the verification system of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="9">FIG. 9 shows another verification service provided by the verification system of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref>
Referring to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention, one or more gaming actions, and perhaps other useful services, are provided to one or more players, such as players 102, 104. A distributed game system for is shown. In particular, the game system 100 provides the game server 110, which provides game actions and convenient services, and the player 102/104 with access to the game machine 100, and operates together with the game server 110 to provide the player with access. It can include one or more gaming machines 130 that provide gaming behavior and convenient services, perhaps one or more databases 180, and a communication network 150 as a means of communication between the game server 110 and the game console 130. As such, according to one embodiment of the invention, by using the game console 130, the game system 100 allows players 102, 104 to play games and possibly other conveniences, as provided by the game server 110. Enables you to be involved in various services.
More specifically, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the game server 110 provides one or more game actions, and information related to the game actions ("game information") through the communication network 150 having the game machine 130. It may be any computing device that operates to replace. The game information may include any information necessary and / or preferred for the operation of the game action in which the player participates or is involved. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the gaming act provided by the game server 110 can include a gambling act as provided in a casino. Examples of gambling are casino-type gambling such as slot machines, video poker, table games (eg, claps, roulette, blackjack, paigao poker, Caribbean stud poker, baccarat, etc.), lucky game wheels, keno. , Sports lottery, horse racing, dog racing, hi-alai and other gambling activities can be included. The gaming behavior provided by the game server 110 can include betting at any type of event. Events can include, for example, sporting events such as horse racing and auto racing, and athletics such as football, basketball, baseball, and golf. Events can also include events that normally do not include gambling, such as elections, entertainment industry awards, and movie box office performance. The game actions provided by the game server 110 can further include lottery-type actions such as lottery (lottery) or state-based or interstate lottery. These lottery can include all forms of number selection lottery, "scratch off" lottery, and other lottery contests. The game behavior provided by the game server 110 can include non-gambling / non-gambling behavior, including games and events. Those skilled in the art recognize that the game server 110 is not limited to the above-mentioned game actions, and other game actions are possible.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, the game server 110 also provides one or more convenient services via the communication network 150 having the game machine 130, and these convenient services ("convenient service information"). ") Can be acted upon to exchange information related to. Convenient service information can include any information necessary and / or preferred in the operation of convenient services involving the player. Convenient services such as example may include restaurant services, entertainment services, hotel services, money management services, news services, financial exchange services or other suitable services and combinations thereof that may be provided to game console players. it can. Restaurant services can include, for example, services that allow players to order drinks, order food, make reservations, or perform other restaurant-related activities. Entertainment services can, for example, allow players to purchase show tickets, arrange appointments or services, shop in virtual reality, arrange transportation, or perform other entertainment-related activities. Includes services to make. Hotel services include, for example, a player checking out, checking in, making a jacuzzi appointment, checking a message, leaving a message, investigating hotel rates, or other guests. It is a service that makes it possible to carry out related acts. A money management service is, for example, a service that allows a player to transfer funds, pay bills, or perform other money management actions. A news service is, for example, a service that allows a player to select and view a news source and / or news article. Financial exchange services, for example, allow players to place buy and / or sell orders for financial exchange.It is a service. Those skilled in the art recognize that the game server 110 is not limited to the above convenient services.
Again, with reference to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the invention, the game server 110 provides game acts and convenient services similar to those described herein, such games and conveniences. It can include one or more processors, such as processor 112, memory 114, and one or more applications 116, which can act to exchange service information with the game console 130. Application 116 can be embodied as one or more software modules that reside in memory 114 and run on processor 112. Alternatively, or in addition, application 116 can be embodied as one or more firmware and / or hardware modules. The game server 110 also interfaces with and communicates with the communication network 150 (and perhaps other communication networks not shown) to send and / or receive game and useful service information with the game console 130. Can include one or more communication modules 118 for. The game server 110 can also include a computer-readable medium 115 (eg, a disk drive) for storing the application 116. As shown in FIG. 1, the game server 110 can also operate to access one or more databases, such as database 180. The database 180 can store, for example, the game record of each player in the game system 100 or the profile information of the player, as further described herein. Although the game server 110 is shown as a single server, those skilled in the art recognize that the game server 110 can include multiple servers, including redundant servers. According to one embodiment of the invention, the game server 110 can be, at least in part, a web server such as an http (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) web server.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the game server 110 and related application 116 can be provided by the game service provider 172. Actual control of gaming behavior and useful services may be provided by Gaming Facility 174. (Game facilities can include, for example, casinos, casino hotels, or other types of entities in Las Vegas, Nevada, Atlantic City, New Jersey or other states, within the scope of international jurisdiction such as cruise ships. Can include entities, can include indigenous American gaming facilities, and / or can include "racino", a stadium that provides slot machines, video lottery terminals, etc. Yes, we recognize that a gaming facility can include other types of entities.) Alternatively, a gaming facility 174 can not only control gaming behavior and useful services, but also a game server 110 and related applications. 116 can be provided, but in that case the game service provider 172 does not exist. Alternatively, the game service provider 172 can provide the game server 110 and the associated application 116, and can control the gaming behavior and useful services, in which case the game facility 174 does not exist. .. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other combinations of these configurations are possible. As shown in FIG. 1, assuming that the game service provider 172 and the game facility 174 exist, the game server 110 can exist within the geographical boundary of the game service provider 172, and the game service provider is the game facility 174. Can be located away from. However, those skilled in the art recognize that other configurations are possible. For example, the game server 110 can reside away from the game service provider 172. As another example, the game service provider 172 and the game server 110 are within the geographical boundaries of the game facility.
With reference to game console 130, these devices provide player 102/104 with access to the game system 100, allowing the player to perform one or more gaming actions, and perhaps other, as provided by game server 110. Allows you to engage in convenient services. Therefore, the game machine 130, in combination with the game server 110, provides one or more game actions and perhaps useful services to the player using the device, and the player in the relationship between the game actions and the convenient services. It may be a device that receives input from and provides information to the player, and operates to exchange game and convenient service information via a communication network 150 having a game server 110. According to one embodiment of the invention, the game console 130 is a mobile / mobile phone, PDA (personal digital assistant), pocket PC (personal computer), personal computer (eg laptop), pocket bell or slot machine. It may be one or more gaming activities, such as a video poker machine, and perhaps a special or general purpose computer (eg, a kiosk) configured to provide convenient services. According to one embodiment of the invention, the game system 100 can include different types of game consoles 130. Those skilled in the art recognize that other types of game consoles are possible.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the game machine 130 is a fixed device or a device tethered to a fixed object, which can be located within the game area of the game facility 174 or in the player's room. It can be located in a remote place such as inside, by the pool, or in a restaurant. Alternatively, the game machine can be a mobile device, whereby the player can move while participating in one or more gaming actions or convenient services. For example, a mobile game machine allows a player to engage in actions and / or services within or away from the game area of a gaming facility. When the game machine is a mobile device, the device can be provided to the player by the game facility 174 and / or the game service provider 172. For example, a player may obtain such a device at check-in at a hotel and / or from a central location within the gaming facility, and the device is temporarily assigned to the player. Alternatively, the mobile game machine may be a device owned by a player such as a mobile phone or a PDA.
Referring again to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the invention, the game console 130 interfaces with the communication network 150 and communicates to transmit and / or receive games and useful services with the game server 110. Module 131 can be included. The game console can also include at least one output device. An example output device is a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) for displaying text and / or image information and options that the player can select in connection with one or more gaming activities or useful services. Display device) At least one display 132 such as a monitor can be included. Other example output devices include one or more LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and at least one audio output device (eg, speakers) to carry information related to one or more gaming activities or useful services. Can include. Game consoles also have a mouse, contact-sensitive pad, pointer, stylus, trackball, hard button, keypad and / or keyboard, wheel, contact-sensitive monitor, and / or audio with one or more keys to display alphanumeric characters. It can include at least one or more input devices 134, such as an input device (eg, a microphone), which allows the player to enter information about commands and / or one or more game actions or useful services. Can be done. The game console can also include at least one biometric input device 136 for entering biometric information such as a fingerprint to access the game system 100.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the gaming machine also works with one or more processors, such as processor 137, memory 138, and application 116 to provide one or more gaming actions and convenient services1 It can have more than one application 140. Application 140 resides in memory 138 and can be embodied as one or more software modules running on processor 137. Alternatively, or in addition, the application 140 can be embodied as one or more firmware and / or hardware modules. If the application 140 is embodied as one or more software modules, these software modules can be first incorporated into the game console, eg, stored on a computer-readable medium 139, and therefore many times. Can also be used. Alternatively, or in addition, each time the player selects a game action or convenient service, it is possible to incorporate the corresponding application 140, for example, from a game server 110 (eg, a web application). Those skilled in the art will recognize that other configurations are possible. The game console can also operate to access one or more databases, such as database 180, either directly or, for example, through the game server 110. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that different gaming consoles can provide different gaming behaviors and convenient services, for example, tailored to gaming consoles and / or players. According to one embodiment of the invention, the game console 130 can operate at least in part as a web client (including, for example, a web browser).
As described above, the game action and convenient services can be provided to the player through the combination of the application executed by the game server 110 and the application 140 executed by the game machine. Those skilled in the art recognize that any portion of a gaming act or convenient service can be performed on the game server 110 and the game console 130. For example, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a game act or a convenient service can be executed on a game server, and the game machine simply provides information to the player and receives input from the player. According to another embodiment of the present invention, a game act or a convenient service can be performed on a game machine, and the game machine provides a result to a game server. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other modifications are possible.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, in addition to providing the player with one or more gaming actions and convenient services, the game machine 130, as is known in the art, is a mobile phone, POTS. Provide one or more communication services such as telephone and / or data communication services such as (planned old telephone services) and / or IP (Internet Protocol) telephone services, internet-based services, email services, text message services, etc. Can work like this. As such, for example, in the case of a game console owned by a player, the game console may provide telephone and / or data communication services, as may also be provided by the game system 100. Can provide one or more gaming activities and convenient services. Players can purchase these various telephone / data communication services and gaming / convenient services together or separately. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the game console 130 may provide telephone and / or data communication services even if it is not owned by the player.
Those skilled in the art will use the common hardware and / or software modules of the game console 130 to provide telephone and / or data communication services and one or more gaming activities and / or convenient services. Recognize that you can. For example, the hardware and / or software modules used to provide data communication services can also be used to communicate with the game server 110. According to another embodiment of the invention, the telephone and / or data communication service may or may not use the communication network 150. In other words, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the game machine can include one or more communication modules in addition to the communication module 131.
Here, referring to the communication network 150, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the network provides a mechanism for the game console 130 and the game server 110 for exchanging game and useful service information. .. For example, game and useful service information includes importing application 140 into game console 130, security information such as logins and passwords, and information and game console 110 and game consoles in images, text and / or audio. It can include a display of choices exchanged with 130. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other information is possible. Thus, the communications network 150 is a network that allows, in whole or in part, to transmit image, text and / or audio information, and to transmit information in any format, including digital and / or analog formats. Can be.
In particular, according to one embodiment of the invention, the communication network 150 can be a wired and / or wireless network that includes a telephone and / or data communication network. The communication network 150 can be a private and / or public network, at least in part due to the security need for gaming and useful service information exchanged between the game server 110 and the game console 130. , Can include the public internet. Network 150 can be based on any well-known and / or future transmission technology. Wireless technologies as an example can include, for example, licensed or exempted technologies, in particular Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) (Registered Trademarks). ), General Line Radio Service (GPRS), WiFi (802.11x), WiMax (802.16x) and / or satellite-based technology. Examples of wired technologies are public switched telephone networks (PSTN), digital subscriber lines (DSL), integrated services digital networks (ISDN), cable modem technologies, and / or technologies based on LANs (local area networks). Can be included. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other transmission and transmission technology combinations can be used.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the communication network 150 can include a plurality of different networks, the plurality of different networks which may or may not be interconnected, and It may or may not be based on different transmission techniques. The game server 110 can perform input / output to / from each network and / or input / output to / from one or more networks via a common access point. Different game consoles can input and output to and from different networks. These multiple networks can each provide or cover different gaming areas / locations. Alternatively, one or more networks can cover the same game area / location and can be based on different transmission technologies, resulting in different types of game consoles using different technologies to access the game server 110. It will be possible to use it. Since the communication network 150 includes multiple networks, one or more game machines can use the wireless network to access the game server 110, and thus can be used as a mobile game machine. Similarly, one or more game consoles can use a wired network to access the game server 110 and thus can be used as a fixed gaming console.
With reference to FIG. 2, a communication network 250 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The communication network 250 is a mobile phone network and includes a plurality of base stations 252, each having a corresponding coverage area 253. The base station technology is a known technology, and the base station 252 may be of any type found in a typical mobile phone network. Base stations have overlapping coverage areas. The game machine 130 accesses the network 250 by receiving and transmitting a radio signal from the base station 252. For example, the game machine 130 may be a mobile phone. Network 250 also includes at least one voice / data switch 254 that can be connected to base station 252 via a mobile switching center (MSC) (not shown). The game server 110 connects to the voice / data switch 254 via, for example, a dedicated and reliable terrestrial communication line 256. According to one embodiment of the invention, the communication network 250 can provide telephone and / or data communication services to the game console 130. For example, the data communication service can be used to transfer game and useful service information between the game machine 130 and the game server 110 via the voice / data switch 254. Similarly, the voice / data switch 254 can make telephone calls between the game console 130 and public and / or private voice networks (not shown).
Referring again to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the invention, the game system 100 may also include one or more databases, such as database 180, which probably also includes one or more redundant and / or backup databases. it can. According to one embodiment of the invention, the database 180 may be accessible to the game server 110 or may be accessible to one or more game consoles 130. One or more databases are provided and / or controlled by the game service provider 172 and / or the game facility 174 and can be located with and / or away from the game server 110. .. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the database 180 may be part of the game server 110.
It should be noted that the term "database" as used herein is not intended to limit how the information held therein is stored and / or accessed. For example, the database 180 may be a database management system. Alternatively, the database 180 may be a computer-readable medium in the game server 110, and the information can be held by the game server, for example, as a single layer file. In another example, the database 180 may be one or more dynamic data structures (eg, arrays) in memory 114 of the game server 110 and can be held by the game server. Alternatively, information can be retained using any combination of these practices with other practices.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the database 180 can store player profile information for one or more players 102/104 of the game system 100. Those skilled in the art recognize that database 180 can store other information. The player profile information may be accessible to the game server 110 and may be accessible to one or more game consoles 130 when providing gaming behavior and / or convenient services. Player profile information can be created, retained, and modified. In particular, when a player first enters a gaming facility 174 (eg, registration at a hotel), or when a player performs one or more gaming actions and / or convenient services (players perform such actions / services). When joining (assuming you can join), when the player gets a gaming machine (eg, at hotel check-in, and / or from a central location within the gaming facility), or when the player gets Player profile information may be created, retained, and modified when engaging in one or more gaming activities and / or when the player is involved in one or more useful services. Those skilled in the art will recognize that player profile information may be created, retained, and modified at other times. Player profile information includes information provided and / or directed by the player, information assigned to the player, information about player monitoring, and / or information related to the game console 130 used by the player. And other types of information may be used. Player profile information can be created, retained, and modified by personnel in the game system 100 and / or by game server 110. Those skilled in the art disclose that the player profile information is retained in database 180, but the player profile information may be retained in a number of different databases, each of which can be implemented in any way. Recognize that you can.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the player profile information stored in the beta base 180 may include information about each player himself. For example, player profile information includes player identification information such as the player's name, home and / or work address, hotel room number, one or more phone numbers including mobile phones, social security numbers, and driving. It can include one or more account numbers such as driver's license numbers, banks, ATMs, debit cards, and / or credit card numbers, and credit / credit performance information. Those skilled in the art recognize that profile information can include other types of player identification information.
The player profile information may also include, for example, player security information that the player must enter into the game console 130 in order to access the game system 100 / game server 110. The player's security information can include the player's identification values such as login, player's password, fingerprint electronic file, voice, photo, retinal scan, and / or other biometric information. For logins and passwords, one or both of these values can be specified / assigned by the player, game facility and / or game service provider personnel, or a combination thereof.
Player security information also includes one or more personal information related to the player, such as the player's maiden name, the player's pet name, the town where the player was born, and / or the hospital where the player was born. be able to. Those skilled in the art recognize that player security information may include other types of personal information relating to the player. Personal information related to the player can be stored in database 180 in different formats, but for example, the personal information itself (eg "Smith") and the answer is personal information (eg "What is your last name?" ? Smith is a common question and the answer to that question, and / or a statement that has not yet been made and a statement that has not yet been made is personal information (eg, "Your last name is Smith") ) Take the means of completion for a statement that has not yet been made. Those skilled in the art recognize that personal information can be stored in other formats. Regardless of the format, personal information may be stored as text values and / or audible values.
The player security information can also include one or more values, such as a random value specified by the player. Values can include, for example, alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible signals, audible tones, audible text values, and / or multiple audible text values, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art recognize that player security information can contain other types of values.
Those skilled in the art will also recognize that profile information may include types of player security information other than those disclosed herein. According to the different embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, the player may perform the gaming act and / or the convenient during the registration period before the beginning of the gaming act and / or before engaging in a convenient service. During the service, some or all of the player's security information can be identified.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, the player profile information may also include information related to the game console 130 that the player is using to access the game system 100. The game console information can include a tracking number assigned to the game console, such as a serial number, inventory number, or other alphanumeric value. For example, the tracking numbers assigned to game consoles are Game Server 110, Game Console Manufacturers, Game Service Providers, and / or Game Authorities 176 (Game Authorities include, for example, Nevata Game Commission, Nevada Game Authority). , New Jersey Game Execution Department (DGE), New Jersey Casino Management Board (CCC), or National Indian Games Commission, etc.). Those skilled in the art recognize that gaming authorities may include other regional, state, federal, and / or non-federal gaming / gambling / casino committees / conferences, or combinations thereof. Those skilled in the art recognize that the game server 110 can use the tracking values to refer to the game console internally.
Game machine information can also be, for example, URL (Uniform Resource Locator), IP Address, MAC (Media Access Control) Address, Hostname (Fully Qualified Domain Name and / or Fully Qualified Domain Name Subname). ), A phone number, an electronic serial number (ESN), and / or a name (eg, an address) assigned to the game machine, including a mobile identification number (MIN). Those skilled in the art will recognize that perhaps other types of names can also be assigned to game consoles. Those skilled in the art recognize that the game server 110 can use one name internally to relate to and / or communicate with the game console.
Those skilled in the art recognize that game console information can be created, retained and modified in a database by players, game system 100 personnel, and / or game server 110. For example, the game server can determine the name of the game machine through communication with the game machine and can store this information in the database 180. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the player profile information may include other types of game console information than those disclosed herein.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, the player's profile information can also include information related to the game action. Information about the game behavior includes, for example, the favorite game behavior, the preference composition of the game action, the preferred screen composition of the game action, and the betting / gambling preference for general and / or special game actions. It can include player preferences regarding game behavior. Those skilled in the art recognize that the player's preference for other gaming activities can be retained.
Information about a game action can also include information related to one or more game actions involving a player. As an example, the game server 110 may monitor, track, and / or store the player's actions to obtain such information. Such information can be retained, for example, for the entire period during which the player is involved in various gaming activities, and / or for a fixed period during which he / she is moving. Information related to one or more game actions involving a player includes the name of the game action currently involving the player, the name of the game action previously involving the player, and the player. It can include the name of any gaming act and a series of names of one or more gaming acts involving the player. Information related to one or more gaming activities involving a player is also provided where the player is currently involved in the gaming activity, where the player was previously involved in the gaming activity, and in what gaming activity the player is involved in. Even if it exists, it can include a place where the player was involved in it, and one or more series of places where the player was involved in a plurality of game actions. Location type information is based on, for example, the location of a stationary game console, or in the case of handheld game consoles, distributed positioning angle positioning, or network-based technologies such as geofence, and / or , For example, can be obtained using positioning techniques such as satellite-based technologies such as Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Those skilled in the art recognize that other locating techniques can be used.
Information related to one or more game actions that the player is involved in is also the skill (or success) level gained of the game action that the player is currently involved in and the game in which the player was previously involved. The acquired skill / success level of the action and any game activity involving the player, the acquired skill / success level and one or more series of game actions involving the player. Can include acquired skill / success level.
Information related to one or more gaming activities involving the player is also the amount bet on the gaming activity the player is currently engaged in, the amount bet on the gaming activity the player was previously involved in, the player. The amount bet on any game activity involving, the amount bet on a series of bets on one or more game activities involving the player, and the amount bet by the player associated with one or more game activities. Can include the average amount of money.
Information related to one or more gaming actions involving the player is also the monetary result (ie, the amount of money won or lost) in the gaming action the player is currently engaged in, and the player was previously involved. It can include a monetary result in a game act that has been played, a series of monetary results in one or more game acts involving a player, and a total monetary result in one or more game acts involving a player.
Information related to one or more game actions involving a player is the result of a win-loss in the game action in which the player is currently involved, and the result of a win-loss in the game action in which the player was previously involved. Any game action involving a player may include a win-loss result and a series of win-loss results in one or more game actions involving the player.
Information related to one or more gaming activities involving the player is also the event in the gaming activity in which the player is currently involved (eg, a card traded with a blackjack mochi card), the player previously. Includes a series of events in a game action involved, any game action involving a player, a series of events in it, and a series of events in one or more game actions involving a player. Can be done. Those skilled in the art recognize that they may also retain other information related to one or more gaming activities involving the player.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the player's profile information can also include the player's credit information. The credit information can include the player's credit amount reflected by the credit account. According to embodiments of the present invention, the amount of credit reflected by a credit account can vary. For example, before engaging in a gaming act, a player may, for example, use a cashier to first deposit a credit amount in a credit account in exchange for a credit card type deposit or other type of deposit. it can. Therefore, the credit amount fluctuates as the player engages in one or more gaming activities, and the game server 110 adds and / or subtracts the player's wins and / or losses to and from the credit account. Similarly, the player may deposit additional funds into the credit account and / or withdraw the funds through the cashier. According to embodiments of the present invention, when a player is engaged in one or more convenient services, the game server 110 may also deduct purchase costs and / or profits associated with these services from the credit account. And / or can be made possible to add. Those skilled in the art recognize that credit accounts may otherwise fluctuate.
Credit information can also include a transaction history of the credit amount so that the credit amount varies with deposits, withdrawals, wins, losses, purchase costs, and profits.
Credit information can also include one or more credit limits, including the betting / betting limits assigned to the player in the context of the gaming act. For example, a single betting / betting limit can be assigned to one or more gaming actions involving a player. Alternatively, one or more gaming actions can have an assigned betting / betting limit. Credit limits can also have one or more spending limits assigned to players in the context of convenient services. When a player is involved in one or more gaming actions and / or convenient services, the game server can dynamically change the player's betting / betting limits and spending limits. Those skilled in the art recognize that the player's profile information may include other types of credit information for the player.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the player's profile information can include, for example, information related to one or more convenient services involving the player that the information game server 110 can monitor and hold. Information related to one or more useful services with which a player is involved may include, for example, reservations and / or appointments made by the player, items purchased by the player, and reservations made / purchased by the player. Appointments and purchase costs and / or deposit amounts associated with the item can be included. Those skilled in the art recognize that the player's profile information may include other types of information related to one or more convenient services involving the player. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other types of player profile information may be created, retained and modified in addition to those disclosed herein.
Those skilled in the art will access database 180 for one or more player profile information disclosed herein to obtain profile information for one or more players in addition to the profile information for other players. Recognize that database 180 can be run, for example, in a way that it can be used for indexing.
Now, with reference to FIG. 3, process 300 is shown as an example for engaging in gaming behavior and / or convenient services of embodiments of the present invention. Those skilled in the art recognize that many other scenarios are possible. Starting from step 302, the player 102 can first activate the game console 130, for example by switching on the device. As a result of the operation, the game machine 130 is automatically connected to the communication network 150, and the player 102 can connect the game machine to the communication network. Thus, the game console 130 can automatically establish communication with the game server 110, or the player 102 can enter these communications to the game console by selecting an option and / or entering a command. Can be established. Therefore, the game server 110 can load one or more applications 140 into the game console. Referring to step 304, the game server 110 and / or the game console 130 then causes player 102 to probably enter player identification information, and also causes player 102 to, for example, login and password, and possibly biometric information. It is also possible to input the security information of the player including. According to another embodiment of the invention, the game machine is already up and running when first used by the player and can also communicate with the game server 110. Here, process 300 can be started, for example, in step 304.
Assuming the player enters the correct player security information, the game server 110 and / or the game console 130 then provides the player 102 with the option to continue the gaming action or perhaps a convenient service (step 306). be able to. Assuming that the player chooses to proceed with the game action, the game environment can be provided to the player. For example, the gaming environment can include a casino lobby, where players are offered a wide range of gaming activities, including, for example, gambling, event gambling, lottery, and the like. Assuming that the player selects a particular category, the player can then be asked to provide a unique type of gaming action that can be selected from it.
Proceeding to step 308, player 102 can select a particular gaming action, such as a particular casino table game. At step 310, the game server and / or game console may then provide the player with one or more options related to the game action selected. At step 312, the player then selects an option. For example, a player can place a stake or draw a card. At step 314, the game console 130 can accept the selected option and send the selected option to the game server 110. At step 316, the game server runs on the selected option.
For example, the game server can determine outcomes such as wins or losses and / or winning or losing amounts based on, for example, bets and applicable bet rates. Random number generators can be incorporated to determine outcomes for certain gambling activities such as table games and slot machines.
After step 318, the game server can prepare a response for the player based on the determined result and send the response to the game machine / player. At step 320, the player can check the response using the game server. For example, the player can confirm that the blackjack player has won and can confirm the specified payout. At step 322, the player can log out of the game server / game console.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the game server 110 is trusted in the sense that the game service provider 172, the game facility 174, and / or the game authority 176 has a mechanism for ensuring that the server has not been tampered with. Can be a server (eg, a "licensed server" / "licensed game server"). For example, a game service provider 172, a game facility 174, and / or a game authority 176 physically reserves a game server 110 (eg, restricts access to it) and / or provides gaming behavior and convenient services. It can have a mechanism for checking the certainty of the application 116. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the game server 110 can have, for example, a mechanism for confirming that the game machine 130 has not been tampered with. For example, as is known in the art, the game server 110 can have a mechanism for checking the reliability of application 140 on a game console. Therefore, when the player uses the game console 130 to engage in one or more gaming actions or convenient services, the game server 110 can confirm that the game console has not been tampered with, for example, when it discovers a problem. , Acts or services can be interrupted.
In particular, from the point of view of the player 102/104 using the game machine 130, a game machine whose player is unknown to the player is provided by the game service provider 172 and / or the game facility 174. It would be desirable to have a mechanism to ensure that the game console has not been tampered with, such as communicating with a scam and malicious game server instead of the licensed game server 110. In other words, when a player uses a game machine by a game server to engage in one or more game actions or useful services, the player is in fact "licensed game server". It is desirable to provide a mechanism that can confirm that it is communicating with (for example, a game server 110).
Now, with reference to FIG. 4, a verification system 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The verification system 400 is a communication network capable of communicating with the verification server 410, for example, the verification device 430a / 430b / 430c that provides the player 102/104 with access to the verification system 400, and the verification server 410 and the verification device 430a / 430b. Contains 450. According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification server 410 provides one or more "verification servers" for one or more players 102/104 of the game system 100, in particular the player is likely to be a verification device. Use the 430a / 430b / 430c to ensure that the game console 130 used by the player is communicating with a licensed game server rather than a bogus and malicious game server. To enable.
In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, the verification server 410 may be a computing device that operates to provide one or more verification services, as disclosed herein. As shown in FIG. 4, the verification server 410 may be a computing device separated from the game server 110. Here, the verification server 410 is a processor 412, one or more processors such as memory 414, and an application 416, each capable of operating to provide verification services as disclosed herein. You can have one or more applications, such as. Each application 416 resides in memory 414 and can be embedded as one or more software modules running on processor 412. Alternatively, or in addition, application 416 can be embedded in one or more firmware and / or hardware modules. The verification server 410 is one or more communication modules for interfacing with the communication network 450 (possibly other communication networks) and for sending and / or receiving verification information with the verification devices 430a / 430b. 418 can be included. The validation information can include information necessary and / or preferred in the operation of the validation service as further disclosed herein, in particular the information exchanged between the validation server 410 and the validation device 430. / Or can include information exchanged between the verification server 410 and the game console 130. The validation server 410 can also have one or more interactive voice response (IVR) systems, such as system 419, and the player will automatically, for example, as further disclosed herein. , Allows interaction with verification server 410. The verification server 410 can also include, for example, a computer-readable medium 415 for storing one or more applications 416. Although the verification server 410 is shown as a single server, those skilled in the art will appreciate it. The certificate server 410 recognizes that it can include a plurality of servers including a redundant server. According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification server 410 can be, at least in part, a web server such as an http web server.
According to an embodiment of the invention, as further shown in FIG. 4, the verification server 410 is also interconnected to the licensed game server 110, as represented by communication 452. .. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication 542 is a communication network such as a data communication network, which may be a network separated from the communication network 150 and / or the communication network 450 or a part thereof. Therefore, the verification server 410 and the game server 110 can also include one or more communication modules (not shown) for communicating over the communication network 452. Those skilled in the art recognize that mechanisms other than the communication network 452 can be used to interconnect the verification server 410 and the game server.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, as further disclosed herein, the verification server 410, with respect to a player using the game machine, to ensure that the device is communicating with the game server 110. The verification information can be exchanged with the game machine 130 via the game server 110. In other words, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the verification server 410 can transfer the verification information to the game machine 130 and / or receive the verification information from the game machine 130, which information is with the communication network 150. It can pass through communication 452, especially through the licensed game server 110. By passing the verification information through the licensed game server 110, it is confirmed that the game machine is communicating with the licensed game server 110 instead of other malicious servers. do. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the game server 110 can include a mechanism known in the art to allow communication of verification information between the verification server 410 and the game machine 130.
In FIG. 4, the verification server 410 is shown to be connected to a single game server 110 / game system 100, but according to other embodiments of the invention, the verification server 410 may have more than one. It is interconnected to game servers 110, each provided and / or controlled by a different game service provider and / or game facility. Here, the verification server 410 can provide a verification service for a player who uses the game machine 130 on any of these game systems.
Although the verification server 410 is shown in FIG. 4 as an arithmetic unit separated from the game server 110, those skilled in the art can implement another implementation of the verification server 410, such as the game server 110 including the verification server 410. Recognize that there is. In other words, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the game server 110 and the verification server 410 may be the same system. For example, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the verification server 410 can be a physical entity / physically part of the game server 110. Here, the game server 110 can include one or more processors, such as processor 412, and one or more applications, such as application 416, the processor / memory / application representing verification server 410. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the verification server 410 may be a logical entity within the game server 110 so that the game server 110 includes the verification server 410. For example, the game server 110 can include one or more applications, such as application 416, which runs as one or more processors on the game server 110, the processor representing the verification server 410.
According to these various other embodiments, the game server 110 interfaces with the communication network 450 to send and / or receive verification information to and / or receive verification information from the verification device 430a / 430b. It can contain one or more communication modules 418 for the verification server "410". In addition, the game server 110 may include one or more IVR systems, such as system 419, to allow players to automatically interact with the "verification server" 410, for example. .. In addition, the game server 110 may also include a mechanism known in the art for the "verification server" 410 to transfer verification information to the game console 130 and / or to receive verification information. As such, the verification information can be considered to pass between the verification server 410 and the game console 130 via the game server 110. Those skilled in the art recognize that other implementations of verification server 410 and / or game server 110 are possible.
Seeing FIG. 4 again, the validation server 410 can also operate to access one or more databases, such as database 180. By implementing database 180 as disclosed herein and / or by implementing a validation server as disclosed herein, the validation server can access database 180 directly (in communication 454). (As shown) and / or the database 180 can be accessed via the game server 110.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the validation server 410 and its associated application 416 can be provided and / or controlled by a game service provider 172, a game facility 174 and / or a game authority 176, and these entities. Can be within the geographical boundaries of one or more of the things. In addition, when the verification server 410 and the game server 110 are separate entities, the servers can be located together and / or apart from each other.
According to embodiments of the present invention, a game service provider 172, a game facility 174, and / or a game authority 176 physically secures a verification server (eg, restricts access to it) and / or, for example. The verification server 410 is a trusted server ("licensed" server) / "licensed verification server" in that it can have a mechanism for checking the authenticity of application 416. It may be. According to embodiments of the present invention, as further disclosed herein, the player 102/104 using the verification device 430 to access the verification server 410 will find that the verification server is a bogus server. Different mechanisms may also be provided so that one can verify that it is a "licensed verification server".
Now referring to verification devices 430a, 430b and 430c, according to embodiments of the present invention, these devices provide player 102/104 with access to verification system 100 and, in particular, used by that player. To ensure that the game console 130 being communicated with the licensed game server 110, the player can use the verification service as provided by the verification server 410. Become. As disclosed herein, according to different embodiments of the invention, the verification system 100 may include only verification devices 430a, 430b or 430c, or may include combinations of these devices. It is possible. In addition, for the respective verification devices 430a, 430b and 430c, the verification system 400 can further include one or many types of each device, as disclosed herein.
With reference to verification devices 430a, according to embodiments of the present invention, these devices operate to interface with the communication network 450, transfer verification information to verification server 410, and / or receive verification information. It can include any device that operates to and / or provides verification information to the player and / or operates to receive verification information. According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification device 430a may be a POTS phone, mobile / mobile phone, IP phone, PDA, pocket PC, personal calculator, pager, terminal, or kiosk. According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification system 400 can include different types of verification devices 430a. Those skilled in the art recognize that other types of verification device 430a are possible.
According to embodiments of the present invention, perhaps the verification device 430a other than the kiosk or terminal can be owned by the player 102/104. Alternatively, the game facility 174, the game service provider 172, and / or the game authority 176 may provide one or more verification devices 430 that can be used by the player. In the latter case, the verification device is a device tethered to and / or installed on a stationary device (eg, a kiosk) or a stationary object (eg, a wall), and is a game at game facility 174 or elsewhere. Can be located within an area / location. According to an embodiment of the invention, when a gaming facility, game service provider, and / or gaming authority provides a verification device 430a, the device is placed in a prominent place, thereby using the verification device. It can give the player confidence that the verification device has not been tampered with and is accessing the "licensed verification server" 410 when in use.
Again, referring to FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the invention, the verification device 430a interfaces with the communication network 450 to transmit verification information to the verification server 410 and / or receive verification information. Communication module 431 can be included. The verification device 430a can also include at least one output device for transmitting verification information to the player, such as at least one display 432, one or more LEDs and / or at least one audio output device. .. The verification device 430a also has a mouse, contact sensitive pad, pointer, stylus, trackball, button, keypad and / or keyboard, wheel, contact sensitive monitor, and / or acoustic with one or more keys displaying alphanumeric characters. It can include at least one or more input devices 434, such as an input device (eg, a microphone), which allows the player to enter validation information. Verification device 430a can also include one or more processors such as processor 436, memory 438 and computer readable medium 439.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification device 430a may not include applications specific to the verification system 400 (eg, software, firmware, and / or hardware modules). According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification device 430a can include one or more applications that work in collaboration with application 416 to provide one or more verification services, such as application 440. .. Each application 440 resides in memory 438 and can be embedded as one or more software modules running on processor 436 and / or one or more firmware and / or hardware modules. It can be embedded as. If the application 440 is embodied as one or more software modules, these software modules can be first incorporated into the verification device, eg, stored on a computer-readable medium 439, and / or validated. When the service is used (eg, as a web application), it can be incorporated, for example, from verification server 410. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other configurations are possible. According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification device 430a can, at least in part, act as a web client (including, for example, a web browser).
With reference to the verification device 430b, according to embodiments of the present invention, these devices include a verification device 430a and a device capable of operating as a game console 130, as disclosed herein. Therefore, the verification device 430b can be a verification device integrated with the game machine 130. Examples of such devices are, as disclosed herein, one or more gaming actions to the player, and perhaps one or more communications, such as a convenient service and a telephone and / or data communication service. It can include a game console 130 that operates to provide services. According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification device 430b can be a stationary device, a device anchored to a stationary object, or a portable device. In addition, the device may be provided to the player by the game facility 174 and / or the game service provider 172, or may be owned by the player.
With reference to verification devices 430c, according to embodiments of the present invention, these devices operate to directly interface with verification server 410 to transmit and / or receive verification information. It also has, for example, a mechanism that operates to provide verification information to the player and / or to receive verification information from the player. In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, the verification device 430c is one or more output devices that interface to the verification server 410, such as a display, one or more LEDs, and / or an audio output device. There can be. Alternatively, or in addition, the verification device 430c also has a mouse, contact-sensitive pad, pointer, stylus, trackball, button, keypad and / or keyboard, wheel, contact-sensitive with one or more keys displaying alphanumeric characters. It may be an input device that interfaces with at least one verification server 410, such as a monitor and / or an audio input device. According to embodiments of the present invention, the verification system 400 can include different combinations of verification devices 430c. Those skilled in the art recognize that other types of verification device 430c are possible.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, the game facility 174, the game service provider 172 and / or the game authority 176 can control access to the verification devices 430a and / or 430c, and / or the player can control the game. Each of the game consoles 130 of the player may operate such a device on behalf of the player to ensure that it is communicating with the licensed game server 110. More specifically, according to embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein, game facility, game service provider and / or game authority personnel are located within a game facility such as a booth. It can be located in and can access one or more verification devices 430a / 430c. The player may request that the clerk confirm the game machine 130 used by the player on behalf of the player. Further, as disclosed herein, the player may provide verification information to the clerk so that the clerk can enter the verification device, and / or the clerk obtains from the verification device. Information can be received from the staff. According to embodiments of the present invention, such clerk is placed in a prominent place, whereby the clerk is "licensed" to identify the player's game machine, which the clerk is legitimate. You can give confidence that you are accessing the verification server "410".
According to another embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein, a game facility, game service provider and / or game authority clerk may be located, for example, in a call center or data center and may be one or more. Access verification device 430a / 430c. The player may contact such personnel via telephone or data connection, for example, and request that the personnel identify the game console 130 used by the player on behalf of the player. it can. According to embodiments of the present invention, for example, a telephone number or data address used by a player to contact a clerk is posted, for example, in a prominent place within a gaming facility, whereby the clerk is legitimate. , It is possible to give the player confidence that he / she is accessing the "licensed verification server" 410 in order to confirm the player's game machine.
Now referring to the communication network 450, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the network provides a mechanism for the verification device 430a / 430b and the verification server 410 to exchange verification information. Further, as disclosed herein, the validation information may be transmitted as image, text, and / or audio information in whole or in combination, including digital and / or analog formats. Can be sent with. According to embodiments of the present invention, the communication network 450 can be a wired and / or wireless network that includes a telephone and / or data communication network and is based on currently known and / or future communication technologies. Is possible. The communication network 450 can be a private and / or public network, at least in part, including the public Internet.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the communication network 450 may include a plurality of different networks that are interconnected or non-interconnected and that are based on or not based on different transmission techniques. The verification server 410 can be attached to each network individually and / or can be attached to one or more networks via a common access point. Different verification devices 430a / 430b can be attached to different networks and different technologies can be used to access the verification server 410.
According to different embodiments of the invention, the communication network 450 and the communication network 150 can or cannot share common resources, and are interconnected or not interconnected. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication network 450 and the communication network 150 are the same network.
Those skilled in the art may vary in coverage of the verification network 450, in particular access to the verification device 450a / 450b from the game area / location within and / or beyond the game facility to the verification server 410. Recognize that it can be provided.
Now referring to FIG. 5, a step of verification service 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which service is provided via a combination of verification server 410, verification device and game console. Those skilled in the art describe the verification service 500 as a series of ordered steps, but the unique order of these steps can be varied, one or more steps can be combined, and not necessarily all. Recognize that no steps are needed.
According to this embodiment, it is assumed that the player is already using a game server, perhaps a game machine 130 communicating with a licensed game server 110. If necessary, it is assumed that the player has already entered the required player identification and / or player security information. According to this embodiment of the invention, the game console 130 is represented by one or more applications (represented by application 417 in FIG. 4) running in collaboration with application 416 on a verification server to provide verification service 500. It should be recognized that it may be necessary (eg, initially incorporated and / or dynamically incorporated).
According to this embodiment of the invention, the player has not only begun to use the game console (eg, has just turned on the device and / or entered the player's identification / security information), and currently has one. Have been involved in any of the above gaming activities and / or useful services, and / or have just terminated one or more gaming activities and / or convenient services. In addition, has the player previously used the game console 130, and as a result, has the device turned off and / or logged out of the device prior to its current use? It is in a state. Similarly, the player has used other devices prior to the current use of the present invention. According to this embodiment of the invention, the player now wants to ensure that the game console 130 is in fact communicating with the licensed game server 110 rather than the bogus / malicious game server. May be.
According to this embodiment of the present invention, the verification device 430a / 430b / 430c used to confirm the game machine receives at least the verification information from the player / clerk and transmits this information to the verification server 410. Need to work to do. However, the verification device is also preferably operational to receive verification information from the verification server 410 and send this information to the player / clerk. For descriptive purposes only, the player has a verification device 430a or 430b (eg, the game console 130 to be checked is integrated with the verification device) to see which game console the player is using. Therefore, the verification service 500 is described assuming that the device is used directly (that is, without going through a staff member).
Starting from step 502, the verification server 110 can initially establish communication with the verification devices 430a / 430b over the communication network 450. The player first causes the verification device to establish communication with the verification server 410. As an example, if the verification device is a telephone or personal computer, the player can enter the address of the verification server, such as a telephone number, or a data address, such as a URL. According to embodiments of the present invention, the player may obtain this address from a prominent display displayed throughout the gaming facility and / or, for example, from an audible publication. By making the address available in such a way, as shown above, the player can use the address to access the "licensed verification server" 410. You can gain the trust that you are. According to another embodiment of the invention, the address can be printed, for example, on the game console 130 or made available by the game console, for example, via a display. If the verification device is provided by a gaming authority, gaming facility and / or game service provider, its address will be printed on top of the verification device or made available by the verification device, for example, via display 432. can do. Those skilled in the art recognize that the player can otherwise obtain the address.
According to embodiments of the present invention, when a gaming authority, gaming facility and / or game service provider provides a verification device, the device can have consistent communication with the verification server 410, thus, for example, gaming. Is not required to establish communication with verification server 410. According to another embodiment of the invention, if the verification device is provided by such an entity, the device may be formed to automatically establish communication with the verification server 410. For example, if the verification device is a telephone, the telephone can be formed to establish communication with the verification server 410 when making a call. Similarly, if the verification device is, for example, a kiosk, the kiosk can include, for example, hard buttons, or soft buttons and / or display options available via the display 432, and the player can display the display. You can press / select them to establish communication with the verification server 410.
With reference to step 504, the verification server 410 can then receive a request for verification service from the player via the verification device. Players can press audible commands, audible tones (eg, select alphanumeric buttons on the phone) by pressing hard buttons or by selecting soft buttons and / or display options that are made available via the display 432. Can be requested as. This request can be made in response to receiving prompts from the verification server and / or verification device (eg, audible, text and / or image prompts). According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification server 410 can think of establishing communication with the verification device as a verification service request, in which case step 504 is not necessary. According to embodiments of the present invention, a request for a verification service from a player can include a request for a particular type of verification service, as disclosed herein.
With reference to step 506, the verification server 410 then determines the game machine 130 that the player wants to verify, and in particular the verification server is a game server, as disclosed herein. Through the 110, the game console can be determined so that it can communicate with the game console in any form. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the verification server 410 can determine the game machine by determining the identification information associated with the player and / or the game machine (step 507). According to an embodiment of the present invention, the verification server can determine such identification information by receiving identification information from the verification device / player. Those skilled in the art recognize that the verification server 410 can determine the identification information in another way.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the identification information includes, for example, player identification information (eg, player name), player security information (eg, player login to game server 110), and / or. , Information about a game console 130 (eg, game console tracking value or name) as disclosed herein can be included. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the identifying information may include other types of information. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the identification information itself allows the verification server to determine the game machine, and as a result, communicates with the game machine via the game server 110 in any form. Can be made possible. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the verification server accesses the identification information, for example, the database 180 and the player's profile information, thereby determining the game machine, particularly through the game server 110. It can be used, for example, as an index to determine the information needed to communicate with the machine. (For example, the identification information can include the player's name, which information can be used to access database 180 and thereby determine the name / address of the game console assigned to the player. As another example, the identification information can include the tracking value of the game console, which information can be used to access database 180 and thereby determine the address of the game console.)
When the validation server receives the identity from the validation device, the player probably matches the confirmation request or perhaps responds to a prompt from the validation server and / or the validation device to validate. You can enter the identification information on the device. For information about the game console 130, the player is printed on the game console and / or information from the game console, such as information made available by the game console through the display 132, for example. Can be obtained. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the verification device can have a mechanism for obtaining identification information from the game machine and then transmitting the information to the verification server. For example, according to an embodiment of the invention, the verification device includes a reader (eg, an optical scanner, a magnetic card reader, an RFID transceiver) for reading information printed and / or encrypted on a game console. Can be a kiosk. As another example, the verification device and the game console can have a communication interface that allows the verification device to obtain identification information from the game console.
Then referring to step 508, the verification server 410 can optionally confirm that the player / verification device is communicating with the licensed verification server 410 for the player. .. According to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server accesses the player's profile information, as disclosed herein, thereby personal information relating to the player (eg, the player's). In order to obtain the player's security information about the player, such as the maiden name, the player's pet name, etc.) and / or the random value specified by the player, the above identification information is used, for example, as an index for database 180. Can be used. Alternatively, the verification server and / or verification device uses such information to prompt the player to obtain additional identifying information and to access the database 180 to obtain the player's security information about the player. be able to. Therefore, the verification server sends the player security information to the verification device, which provides the information to the player as audible and / or displayed information. In this way, the player can verify that the verification device is communicating with the licensed verification server 410.
Then, referring to step 510, the verification server can then prompt the player to enter the sign selected by the player on the verification device. Upon receiving this sign from the verification device (step 512), the verification server can send the sign to the game console via the game server 110 (step 514), which allows the game console to send the sign to the player. Inform. According to this embodiment of the invention, the indicator identified by the player on the verification device and received by the verification server is an alphanumeric text value, a plurality of alphanumeric text values, an audible signal, an audible tone, an audible text. It can be a value, multiple audible text values, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, or in addition, the sign may include the player's security information about the player, such as personal information relating to the player as disclosed herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the sign can take other forms. Regardless of the type of sign, the player can enter the sign into the verification device, but the method is to speak the sign into an audio input device (eg, a telephone handset) and enter the sign on a keypad or keyboard. Input via, or use any other of the many input devices as disclosed herein. The verification server can now send the indicator to the game console in the same format it received from the verification device. According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification server can change the format of the sign before sending the sign to the game machine, whereby the game machine is different from when the sign was entered. The player can be informed in the form. For example, the validation server receives the indicator from the validation device / player as an audible text value, converts the audible text value to an equivalent alphanumeric text value, and then converts the equivalent alphanumeric text value into a game. It can be sent to the machine and its alphanumeric text value can be displayed to the player.
Rather than a sign moving from the verification device to the game console, according to another embodiment of the invention, the verification server may prompt the verification device to prompt the player to enter the sign into the game console. it can. Upon receiving this sign from the game machine via the game server 110, the verification server sends the sign to the verification device, which notifies the player of the sign.
As such, according to embodiments of the invention, between the verification device 430a / 430b and the game console 130 via the licensed verification server 410 and the licensed game server 110. Moving the sign, in this embodiment, the sign is generated and received by the player (ie, known to the player), but when the transmitted and received signs match, the player Can confirm that the game console is communicating with a licensed game server rather than a bogus / malicious game server. In particular, if the player does not receive the sign on the game console / verification device or receives a sign that is different from what was sent / expected, the game console will communicate with the licensed game server 110. You can conclude that you should ask for help.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification device can have a mechanism for obtaining information from the game console, as disclosed above in relation to step 507 of verification service 500 for identification information. .. Here, the verification device holds the sign sent to the verification server, obtains the sign received by the game machine, and can match the two signs on behalf of the player.
As disclosed herein, verification service 500 has been described for verification device 430a or 430b. Those skilled in the art recognize that verification service 500 is also provided using verification device 430c. In particular, the player can use the verification device 430c to identify the game console 130, as described above for the verification device 430a or 430b.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the player can interact with a clerk at the game facility 174, the game service provider 172, and / or the game authority 172, who is on behalf of the player the game console 130. Verification devices 430a and / or 430c can be used to verify. As shown, this clerk may be located, for example, in a booth or accessed via, for example, a call or data center. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the player verifies, apart from the player who is using the verification device to communicate with the verification server 410 to confirm the game machine used by the player. It is possible to communicate with the verification server via a person in charge of communicating with the server.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification service can resemble, for example, the verification service 500 of steps 502 to 508. The verification server and / or the verification device then prompts the player to enter a sign on the verification device, which sign is commonly referred to as the first sign in the context of this embodiment. be able to. Upon receiving this first sign from the verification device, the first sign can probably be used to determine other information known to the player and / or visible to the player (this information is common). In the context of this embodiment, it is referred to as the second marker). The verification server sends this information to the game machine via the game server (that is, sends a sign) so that the game machine informs the player of the information.
In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, the identification information obtained in step 507 can be used, for example, as an index for database 180, for example, to access player profile information. Alternatively, the verification server and / or the verification device can prompt the player to provide additional identification information, which the verification server uses to access the player's profile information. can do. Those skilled in the art recognize that the player's profile information can be accessed in other ways. The verification server can use the first indicator obtained from the verification device / player as a selection mechanism, which is an input from multiple pieces of information forming the player's profile information. Select and the value of this input will be the second indicator. For example, as disclosed herein, a player's profile information is one or more pieces of information about the player's security information, one or more pieces of information related to one or more gaming actions involving the player. , One or more information relating to one or more useful services involving the player, and / or one or more information regarding the player's credit information may be included in addition to other types of information. Is. According to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server selects / accesses one or more of this information (ie, a second indicator) and then transmits this information to the game console via the game server. Therefore, the first indicator can be used to be received / identified from the verification device / player. For example, the first sign from the verification device could be "What is my mother's maiden name?", And the second sign sent from the game console, determined from the player's profile information, is "Smith." May be. As another example, the first indicator from the verification device may be "what is the name of the gaming action the player is involved in" or is transmitted from the game console, as determined from the player's profile information. The second sign given may be the name of the game act. Those skilled in the art are other players Recognizes that the profile information of is determined from the first sign. As such, according to embodiments of the invention, the verification server and / or verification device inputs to the player the type of information that the player wants to access from the player's profile information. Can be (and / or provide the player with one or more selection options) so that the player responds by selecting one (ie, with the first sign). The verification server can then receive the player's selection and, based on this selection, determine the corresponding information from the player's profile information (ie, the second indicator). Similar to the above, by receiving information known to the player or information that the player can confirm / verify on the game machine (for example, the name of the game action in which the player is involved). The player can confirm that the game machine is communicating with the game server. Those skilled in the art recognize that the first sign can be sent from the game console and the second sign can be sent from the verification device.
According to another embodiment of the invention, with respect to the type of information obtained from the player's profile information, rather than using the first indicator as its selection mechanism, the verification server uses the first indicator as the verification device / It can be treated as a command from the player, automatically select information (ie, a second sign) from the player's profile information, and then send this information to the game console via the game server. .. According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification server selects the second indicator before receiving the first indicator, and then receives the second indicator in response to the receipt of the first indicator. Can be sent. According to a similar embodiment of the invention, the verification server does not require a first indicator / command from the verification device, but rather automatically obtains information from the player's profile information (eg, a second indicator). ) Can then be selected to send this information to the game console via the game server. For example, the verification server can automatically select information (ie, a second indicator) and send it to the game console in response to receiving a request for the verification service from the verification device / player. According to embodiments of the present invention, the information that the verification server selects from the player's profile information can be pre-determined (eg, pre-formed by the verification server) and / or randomly, for example, by the verification server. You can choose. Those skilled in the art recognize that other modifications are possible.
Those skilled in the art, according to these embodiments of the invention, allow the player to use the verification device 430a / 430b / 430c to identify the game console, or similarly, as described above, the player. Recognize that any verification device 430a / 430c can be identified via a person skilled in the art who can use it.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification service can resemble, for example, the verification service 500 of steps 502 to 508. Rather than having the player enter a sign on either the verification device or the game console and send the sign to another, according to this embodiment of the invention, the verification server may use a random value, etc. You can decide on signs that are unknown to the player. After that, the verification server can send a sign to the game machine via the game server 110 and notify the player of the sign to the game machine, and similarly, send the sign to the verification device and send the sign to the verification device. The sign can be made to inform the player. If the player receives a sign on the game console and assumes that the two signs match, the player will see that the game console is a licensed game server rather than a bogus / malicious game server. You can confirm that you are communicating with 110. Alternatively, if the player does not receive a sign on the game console or receives a sign different from that received on the verification device, the game console may communicate with the licensed game server 110. You can conclude that you can't and you should ask for help. According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification device can have a mechanism for obtaining information from the game console, as disclosed above in relation to step 507 of verification service 500 for identification information. .. Here, the verification device can obtain the sign received by the game machine and perform a match for the player.
According to these embodiments of the present invention, the indicator identified by the verification device is an alphanumeric text value, a plurality of alphanumeric text values, an audible signal, an audible tone, an audible text value, a plurality of audible text values, or. It can be a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the sign can take other forms. Regardless of the type of indicator, the verification server can send the indicator to the verification device and the game console in the same format (eg, both audible text values) or in different formats.
Those skilled in the art, according to these embodiments of the invention, allow the player to use the verification device 430a / 430b / 430c to identify the game console, or similarly, as described above, the player. Recognize that any verification device 430a / 430c can be identified via a person skilled in the art who can use it.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification service can again resemble, for example, the verification service 500 of steps 502 to 508. The verification server then determines a sign, such as a random value, that is unknown to the player, sends the sign to the game console via the game server 110, and sends the sign to the game console to the player. It can be made to inform (the sign sent to the game console can be referred to as the first sign in the context of this embodiment). The verification server tells the player (via the verification device or the game console) that the sign received by the game console through the verification device (the sign sent from the verification device to the verification server is a second sign in the context of this embodiment. Can be called) to identify / display / send. According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification device also has a mechanism for obtaining information from the game console, as disclosed above, and obtains a sign received by the game console and automatically. The indicator can be sent to the verification server. The verification server matches the first sign sent to the player via the game console with the second sign received from the player via the verification device, and the first and the first via the verification device or game console. It is possible to notify the player if the second sign matches (eg, provide a notification to the player). Assuming that the player receives the first sign on the game console and the verification server verifies that this received sign matches the value sent, the player is licensed to the game console. You can confirm that you are communicating with the game server 110. Rather than a verification server that sends the first sign to the game console, the vendor sends the first sign to the verification device and then gives the player the first sign via the game console. Prompting to identify / display, the game console can send a sign (ie, a second sign) to the verification server via the game server.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the player can interact with a staff member of the game facility 174, the game service provider 172 and / or the game authority 176, who will use the game console 130 on behalf of the player. Verification devices 430a and / or 430c can be used for verification. According to this embodiment of the invention, the verification service can resemble, for example, the verification service 500 of steps 502 to 508. The clerk can then determine a sign that the player does not know (such as a random value), identify the sign for the player, and enter the sign into the verification device. As a result, the verification server can transmit the sign to the game machine via the game server 110 and notify the game machine of the sign to the player. If the player receives a sign on the game console and assumes that the two signs match, the player will see that the game console is a licensed game server rather than a bogus / malicious game server. You can confirm that you are communicating with 110. Alternatively, if the player does not receive a sign on the game console or receives a sign that is different from what the attendant has obtained, the game console will communicate with the licensed game server 110. Can't, and can conclude that they should seek help.
According to a similar embodiment of the invention, the clerk again determines a sign that the player does not know (eg, a random value), inputs the sign into the verification device, and sends the sign to the verification server on the game server 110. Through, the game machine can be made to notify the player of the sign (the sign sent to the game machine is referred to as a first sign in the context of this embodiment. be able to). The clerk then requests the player to identify / display the sign received on the game console and receives the sign from the player (the sign sent to the clerk by the player is in the context of this embodiment). It can be referred to as a second sign in it), which can be identified to the player as to whether it matches (eg, provides a notification to the player). Assuming that the player receives the first sign on the game console and this sign matches the value sent by the attendant, the player will find that the game console is a licensed game server 110. It can be confirmed that it is communicating with.
Now referring to FIG. 6, a step of verification service 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown, which service is provided via a combination of verification server 410, verification device and game console. .. Those skilled in the art describe the verification service 600 as a series of ordered steps, but the unique order of these steps can be varied, one or more steps can be combined, and not necessarily all. Recognize that no steps are needed.
As also described for verification service 500, according to this embodiment, the player is using a game machine 130 that is already communicating with a game server, perhaps a licensed game server 110. If necessary, assume that the player has already entered the required player identification and / or player security information. Similar to the above, the player is placed in one of various states with respect to the player's use of the game console. According to this embodiment of the invention, the game console 130 is represented by one or more applications (represented by application 417 in FIG. 4) that operate in collaboration with application 416 on a verification server to provide verification service 600. It should be recognized that it requires).
According to this embodiment of the invention, the player can use the verification devices 430a / 430b / 430c to identify the game console. Alternatively, as described above, the player can confirm the game machine through a staff member who is using any of the verification devices 430a / 430c. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the verification device 430a / 430b / 430c must be in operation to at least receive verification information from the player and / or attendant and send this information to the verification server 410. However, it preferably operates to receive verification information from the verification server 410 and send this information to the player and / or attendant. For descriptive purposes only, the player has a verification device 430a or 430b and uses this device directly (ie, without attendance) to see which game console the player is using. The verification service 600 is described assuming that it is used.
Starting with steps 602 and 604, the verification server 110 first establishes communication with the verification device and then from the player via the verification device as described similarly for steps 502, 504 of verification service 500. Can receive requests for verification services. Then referring to step 606, the verification server 410 can then determine the identification information associated with the player and / or the game console. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the verification server can use the identification information for storing the label, as further disclosed herein. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the verification server can determine the identification information by receiving the identification information from the verification device / player. However, those skilled in the art recognize that the verification server 410 can determine the identification information in other formats. Similar to the verification service 500, the identification information can include, for example, player identification information, player security information, and / or information about the game console 130 that the player wants to see. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the identifying information may include other types of information. When the verification server receives the identification information from the verification device, the player can enter the identification information on the verification device and / or the verification device can obtain the identification information from the game machine, and then , The information can be sent to the verification server as described similarly for step 506 of verification service 500.
Then referring to step 608, the verification server 410 is optional and for the player, the player / verification device is a licensed verification server as described for step 508 of verification service 500 as well. You can confirm that you are communicating with 410.
Then referring to step 610, the verification server can then prompt the verification device to enter the player's selected indicator into the verification device. At step 612, the verification server receives the sign from the verification device / player, and in any form, the sign is directly or indirectly related to the identification information determined in step 606. As a result, the label can be stored so that it can be retrieved, as disclosed herein (step 614). According to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server can store, for example, a label in database 180, which is associated with the identification information, and in particular, the identification information is stored in the database 180 in order to store the label. Can be used as an index. For example, the verification server can store a sign with the player's profile information.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification server stores the sign in a database specific to the test server and identifies the sign or other information obtained from, for example, database 180 and the player's profile information. It can be associated with identification information. Again, the term "database" used here for the validation server does not limit how the indicator is stored and / or accessed. For example, the database is a database management system and can be a computer readable medium within the verification server 410, for example, the indicators stored there as a single layer file are in the memory of the verification server 410 and there. It can be one or more dynamic data structures within the stored label and / or a combination of these and other practices.
According to this embodiment of the invention, the indicator identified by the player on the verification device and received by the verification server is an alphanumeric text value, a plurality of alphanumeric text values, an audible signal, an audible tone, an audible text. It can be a value, multiple audible text values, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, or in addition, as disclosed herein, the sign may include player security information about the player, such as personal information related to the player. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the sign can take other forms. Regardless of the type of sign, the player can enter the sign into the verification device, but the method is to speak the sign into an audio input device (eg, a telephone handset) and enter the sign on a keypad or keyboard. Input via, or use the other of many input devices as disclosed herein. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the verification server may store the sign in the same format received from the verification device / player, or change the form of the sign before storing the sign. it can. For example, the validation server receives the indicator from the validation device / player as an audible text value, converts the audible text value to an equivalent alphanumeric text value, and stores the equivalent alphanumeric text value. To do.
Then referring to step 616, the verification server then prompts the verification device to enter a request for the verification service via the game console, and in particular, the verification device. It is possible to prompt the player to enter a request for searching for a previously received sign from the player via the game console. The player can press a hard button or select a soft button and / or a display option that will be available via the display 132 to audible commands, audible tones (eg, select alphanumeric buttons on the phone). Can be requested on the game console. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the player may otherwise make the request. The game machine can send the request directly to the verification server or via the game server 110.
Then, referring to step 618, the verification server can receive the request from the game console and, in response to this request, determine the sign previously received from the player via the verification device (step 622). According to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server 410 can determine the sign by determining the identification information from the game console (step 620), and the verification server accesses the database that previously stored the sign. The label can be determined by using the identification information for the server. For example, the validation server can use the identity information as an index to access the database.
Similar to the above, the identification information may include, for example, player identification information, player security information, and / or information about the game console 130. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the identifying information includes other types of information. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the verification server can determine the identification information by receiving the identification information from the game machine / player. For example, a player enters identification information on a game console, perhaps in collaboration with entering a request for a verification service and / or in response to receiving a prompt from a verification server and / or game console. (The player can obtain the identification information from the game console itself, as also disclosed in the context of step 506 of verification service 500). Alternatively, the game console can automatically include identification information in a request to the verification service (eg, the game console can send the player's login or the game console's name / address). Alternatively, the verification server can determine the identification information based on the notification that the request from the game machine has been received (for example, the verification server can determine the name / address related to the game machine). Those skilled in the art recognize that the verification server can determine the identification information in other ways. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the identification information received from the game console is the same and / or different from the identification information received from the verification device in step 606.
As shown herein, according to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server uses the determined identification information from the game console to determine, now and previously, the signs received from the player via the verification device. (Step 622), in particular, the identification information can be used by the validation server to access the database that previously stored the indicator. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the identification information used to store the database markers is now different from the identification information used to access the database, depending on the format of the database. Assuming that the verification server cannot use the format of the identification information received from the game console to access the database, the verification server can convert the identification information to another format, for example, via the database.
Now referring to step 624, once the sign has been determined, the verification server can then send the sign to the game console via the licensed game server 110, resulting in the game console. Will inform the player of the sign. The verification server sends the sign to the game console in the same format that it received from the verification device, or transforms the format of the sign sent to the game console, resulting in the game console to send the sign. Will be notified to the player in a format different from when the is entered.
As such, according to this embodiment of the invention, the licensed verification server 410 stores the signs received from the verification device / player and then requests from the game console / player. Upon receipt, the indicator is sent to the game console / player via the licensed game server 110, resulting in the game console being licensed rather than a bogus / malicious game server. The player can confirm that he / she is communicating with the game server 110. In particular, if the player does not receive a sign on the game console or receives a sign different from the one originally entered on the verification device, the player will say that the game console is with the licensed game server 110. You can conclude that you cannot communicate and should seek help.
One of ordinary skill in the art recognizes that another embodiment of the verification server 600 is possible, as is another embodiment of the verification server 500 in which the player interacts with a clerk and the clerk identifies the sign.
Now, with reference to FIG. 7, a step of verification service 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which service is provided via a combination of verification server 410, verification device, and game console. Those skilled in the art describe the verification service 700 as a series of ordered steps, but the unique order of these steps can be varied, one or more steps can be combined, and not necessarily all. Recognize that no steps are needed.
As also described for verification service 500, according to this embodiment, the player is using a game machine 130 that is already communicating with a game server, perhaps a licensed game server 110. If necessary, assume that the player has already entered the required player identification and / or player security information. Similar to what is noted above, the player is placed in one of various states with respect to the player's use of the game console. According to this embodiment of the invention, it is recognized that the game console 130 may require one or more applications to work with application 416 on the verification server to provide verification service 700. Should be.
According to this embodiment of the invention, the player can use the verification devices 430a / 430b / 430c to identify the game console. Alternatively, as described above, the player can confirm the game machine through a staff member who is using any of the verification devices 430a / 430c. According to this embodiment of the invention, the verification device 430a / 430b / 430c must at least operate to receive verification information from the verification server 410 and transmit this information to the player and / or attendant. However, preferably, it is necessary to receive verification information from the player and / or a staff member and operate to convey this information to the verification server 410. For descriptive purposes only, the player has a verification device 430a or 430b and uses this device directly (ie, without attendance) to see which game console the player is using. Describe the verification service 700 assuming that you are using it.
Starting from step 702, the verification server 410 can initially receive a request for the verification service from the player via the game console. The player selects an audible command, an audible tone (eg, an alphanumeric button on the phone) by pressing a hard button or by selecting a soft button and / or a display option that becomes available, for example, through the display 132. Can be requested as). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the player may otherwise make the request. The game console can send the request directly to the verification server or via the game server 110.
Then, referring to step 704, the verification server 410 can then determine from the game console / player information about the player and / or the game console. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the verification server can use the identification information for storing the sign received from the game machine, as further described herein. Similar to the above, other types of identification information can also be used, but the identification information can include, for example, player identification information, player security information, and / or information about the game console 130. According to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server identifies by receiving identification information from the game console / player, as also disclosed in the context of step 620 of the verification service 600. Information can be decided. For example, a player enters identification information on a game console, perhaps in collaboration with entering a request for a verification service and / or in response to receiving a prompt from a verification server and / or game console. be able to. Alternatively, the game console can automatically include the identification information in the request to the verification service. Alternatively, the verification server can determine the identification information based on the notification that the request for the verification service from the game machine has been received. Those skilled in the art recognize that the verification server can determine the identification information in other ways.
Then, referring to step 706, the verification server can then prompt the game console to prompt the player to enter a sign selected by the player on the game console. At step 708, the verification server can then receive a sign from the game console / player, preferably via the game server 110. Upon reception of this indicator from the verification device / player, the verification server, label, identification information obtained in step 704, associated directly or indirectly, as a result, here as further disclosed, is the label The indicator (step 710) can be saved in a searchable way. According to an embodiment of the invention, as similarly described for step 614 of the verification process, the validation server, for example, associates the indicator with the identification information and, in particular, stores the indicator 180. The indicator can be stored in database 180 using the identification information as an index against. Alternatively, the validation server may store the sign in a database specific to the validation server and may associate the sign with identification information or, for example, database 180 with other identification information obtained from the player's profile information. it can.
According to this embodiment of the present invention, the indicator identified by the player on the game console and received by the verification server is an alphanumeric text value, a plurality of alphanumeric text values, an audible signal, an audible tone. , An audible text value, a plurality of audible text values, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, or in addition, the sign may include the player's security information about the player, such as personal information related to the player, as disclosed herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the sign can take other forms. Regardless of the type of sign, the player can enter the sign on the game console, either by speaking the sign to an audio input device, entering the sign via a keypad or keyboard, or For example, using other of many input devices as disclosed herein. According to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server stores the sign in the same format as received from the game console / player, or is similarly described in the context of step 614 of verification process 600. As such, the format of the sign can be changed before the sign is saved.
Then referring to step 712, the verification server 410 then uses the verification device 430a / 430b by the player to establish communication with the verification server 410 on the game console, from which the verification service request In particular, it can be prompted to make a request to search for signs previously received from the player via the game console. The player can perform these actions as described similarly for steps 502 and 504 of Verification Service 500. Therefore, in steps 713 and 714, the verification server 110 can establish communication with the player's verification device and receive the request from the verification device.
Then referring to steps 716 and 718, in response to receiving the request from the verification device, the verification server can then determine the sign previously received from the player via the game console / game server 110 ( Step 718). According to an embodiment of the invention, the verification server 410 can determine the sign by determining the identification information from the verification device / player (step 716), and the verification server previously stored the sign. The indicator can be determined by using the identification information to access the database (step 718).
According to the embodiment of the present invention, the verification server can determine the identification information by receiving the identification information from the game machine / player. However, those skilled in the art recognize that the verification server 410 can determine the identification information in another way. Similarly, as described above, the identification information may include other types of information, but may include, for example, player identification information, player security information, and / or information about the game console 130. When the verification server receives the identification information from the verification device, the player can enter the identification information on the verification device and / or the verification device can obtain the identification information from the game machine, and then , The information can be sent to the verification server as described in step 506 of verification service 500. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the identification information received from the verification device is the same and / or different from the identification information received from the game console in step 704.
As an aside, one of ordinary skill in the art also recognizes that, for example, step 712 can occur prior to step 702. Those skilled in the art will also note that the verification server 410 also for the player, the player / verification device obtains, for example, the security information of the player associated with the player, as described similarly for step 508 of verification service 500. Therefore, it is possible to use the identification information from the verification device and then send the information to the player to confirm that it is communicating with the licensed server 410.
Again, referring to step 718, as shown here, the verification server uses the determined identification information from the verification device to determine, now and previously, the signs received from the player via the game console. In particular, the validation server can use the identifying information to access the database that previously stored the indicator. Now referring to step 720, once the indicator has been determined, the verification server can then send the indicator to the verification device, so that the verification device informs the player of the indicator. Similar to step 624 of the verification service 600, the verification server sends the sign to the verification device in the same format as it received from the game console, or modifies the format of the sign sent to the verification device. As a result, the verification device informs the player in a different format than when the sign was entered.
As such, according to this embodiment of the invention, the licensed verification server 410 stores the signs received from the game console / player via the licensed game server 110. Then, the next time it receives a request from the verification device, it sends the indicator to the verification device / player, so that the player is communicating with the licensed game server 110. Can be confirmed. In particular, if the player does not receive a sign on the verification device or receives a sign different from the one originally entered on the game console, the player will say that the game console is with the licensed game server 110. You can conclude that you cannot communicate and should seek help.
Now referring to FIG. 8, a step of verification service 800 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown, which service is provided via a combination of verification server 410, verification device and game console. .. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the verification server 410, unlike the verification services 500, 600, 700, cannot exchange the verification information with the game machine to be confirmed. Those skilled in the art describe the verification service 800 as a series of ordered steps, but the unique order of these steps can be varied, one or more steps can be combined, and not necessarily all. Recognize that no steps are needed.
According to this embodiment of the invention, the player is using a game server, perhaps a game machine 130 communicating with a licensed game server 110, and the player is currently one or more. Suppose you are involved in a gaming activity and / or a convenient service, and / or the player has terminated one or more gaming activity and / or a convenient service. Alternatively, it is assumed that the player has terminated one or more gaming activities and / or convenient services and turned off or / or logged out of the game console. According to this embodiment of the invention, the player is now a licensed game server rather than a game machine that the player is currently using or has used up is not a bogus / malicious game server. You may want to make sure you are communicating with 110.
As disclosed herein, for example, a licensed game server 110 monitors / tracks a player's behavior and, for example, in database 180, eg, as part of the player's profile information. It can retain information related to one or more gaming activities involving a player, information related to one or more useful services involving a player, and / or player credit information ( Those skilled in the art will recognize that such information may be monitored / tracked by devices other than the game server 110, such as the verification server 410 and other devices.) According to this embodiment of the invention, the player Use the verification devices 430a / 430b / 430c, directly and also through personnel, to access such player's profile information, and by doing so, the information is that the player has that information. You can be sure that it matches what you feel should be. If the information appears to be accurate, the player states that the game console the player is currently using or was previously using is / was communicating with the licensed game console 110. I can conclude. Alternatively, if the information is not accurately visible, the player can conclude that the game console is not / not communicating with the licensed game server 110 and should seek assistance.
According to this embodiment of the present invention, the verification device 430a / 430b / 430c must at least operate to receive verification information from the verification server 410 and transmit this information to the player and / or attendant. However, preferably, the verification information is received from the player and / or the clerk, and the verification information is transferred to the verification server 410. For descriptive purposes only, assume that the player has a verification device 430a or 430b and is using this device directly (ie, without going through a clerk) to verify the game console. Describe the verification service 800.
Starting with steps 802 and 804, the verification server 410 can first establish communication with the verification device over the communication network 450, and then write similarly for steps 502 and 504 of verification service 500. In addition, a request for the verification service can be received from the player via the verification device. The validation server 410 can then determine other types of information with reference to step 806, but then to disclose the player's identification information, the player's security information, and / or herein. Identification information related to the player and / or the game machine, such as information about the game machine 130, can be determined. According to this embodiment of the invention, the verification server uses the identification information to access, for example, the database 180, and in particular, identifies to obtain the player's profile information, as further disclosed herein. Information can be used. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the identification information can be determined by obtaining the identification information from the verification device / player, for example, as described similarly for step 506 of the verification service 500. However, those skilled in the art recognize that the verification server 410 can determine the identification information in another way.
Referring to step 808, the verification server 410 then, for the player, the player / verification device with the licensed verification server 410 as described for step 508 of verification service 500 as well. You can confirm that you are communicating.
Then referring to step 810, the validation server 410 uses the identification information to determine one or more signs, in particular to access the player's profile information, thereby determining one or more signs. Therefore, for example, the identification information can be used as an index for the database 180. Specifically, as shown herein, the profile information of a player is, for example, information related to one or more game actions involving the player (eg, of a game action currently involving the player). Information related to one or more useful services with which the player is involved (eg, items purchased by the player), and / or player credit information (eg, the player's credit amount). Can include. According to an embodiment of the invention, the validation server can use the identification information as an index against database 180 to access the player's profile information, and then automatically one or more of the above information (or). Other types of information) can be selected, but that information is commonly referred to as one or more markers in the context of this embodiment. The validation server can decide in advance which information to select, or it can be done, for example, randomly. According to another embodiment of the invention, the verification server and / or the verification device prompts the player (eg, audible, textual, and / or image prompts), and / or the player is in database 180. From the player's profile information inside, one or more options regarding the type of information you want to access can be provided to the player. The validation server can then receive player selections and select one or more profile information (ie, markers) for the player based on these selections.
Then referring to step 812, the verification server 410 can send information (ie, a sign) that has accessed the verification device so that the verification device informs the player of that information as an audible value, a text value, and so on. become. As mentioned above, if the information appears to be accurate, the player communicates with the licensed game console 110 if the game console the player is currently using or was previously using. You can conclude that you were / were. Alternatively, if the information is not accurately visible, the player can conclude that the game console is not / not communicating with the licensed game server 110 and should seek assistance.
Now referring to FIG. 9, a step of verification service 900 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown, which service is provided via a verification server 410 and a combination of game console and device. According to this embodiment of the present invention, the verification server 410 can exchange verification information with the verification device, unlike the verification services 500, 600, 700, 800. In other words, in this embodiment of the invention, the verification device is not required to identify the game console. Those skilled in the art describe the verification service 900 as a series of ordered steps, but the unique order of these steps can be varied, one or more steps can be combined, and not necessarily all. Recognize that no steps are needed.
As also described for verification service 500, according to this embodiment, the player is using a game machine 130 that is already communicating with a game server, perhaps a licensed game server 110. If necessary, assume that the player has already entered the required player identification and / or player security information. Similar to the above, the player is placed in one of various states with respect to the player's use of the game console. According to this embodiment of the invention, it should be recognized that the game console 130 requires one or more applications to work with application 416 on the verification server to provide verification service 600. is there.
Starting with step 902 of the verification service 900, the verification server 410 can initially receive a request for the verification service from the player via the game console. The player can press a hard button or select a soft button and / or a display option that will be available via the display 132 to audible commands, audible tones (eg, select alphanumeric buttons on the phone). Can be requested on the game console. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the player may otherwise make the request. The game console can send the request directly to the verification server or via the game server 110.
The verification server 410 can then determine other types of information with reference to step 904, but then to disclose the player's identification information, the player's security information, and / or herein. Identification information related to the player and / or the game machine, such as information about the game machine 130, can be determined. According to this embodiment of the invention, the verification server uses the identification information to access, for example, the database 180, and in particular, identifies to obtain the player's profile information, as further disclosed herein. Information can be used. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the identification information can be determined by receiving the identification information from the game machine / player, for example, as described similarly for step 620 of the verification service 600. However, those skilled in the art recognize that the verification server 410 can determine the identification information in another way.
Then referring to step 906, the validation server 410 uses the identification information to determine one or more signs, in particular to access the player's profile information, thereby determining one or more signs. Therefore, for example, the identification information can be used as an index for the database 180. As disclosed herein, the player's profile information may include personal information related to the player (eg, the player's maiden name, the player's pet name, etc.) and / or a random value identified by the player. Can include player security information about the player. According to embodiments of the present invention, as disclosed herein, a player may have some or all of the player's security information during the registration period prior to initiating a game action and / or engaging in a convenient service. Can be identified.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the validation server can use the identification information as an index against database 180 to access the player's profile information, and then automatically, one or more of the above information (or). , Other types of information), but that information is commonly referred to as one or more markers in the context of this embodiment. The validation server can decide in advance which information to select, or it can be done, for example, randomly. According to another embodiment of the invention, the validation server and / or the game console prompts the player and / or one regarding the type of information the player wants to access from the player's profile information in database 180. The above options can be provided to the player. The validation server can then receive player selections and select one or more profile information (ie, markers) for the player based on these selections.
Then, referring to step 908, the verification server can send the information (that is, the sign) that accessed the game machine, so that the game machine informs the player of the information as an audible value, a text value, etc. Become. As an example, if the validation server automatically accesses the information and provides it to the player, the information is provided, for example, in the form "Your maiden name is Smith". Alternatively, if the player can select the type of information to access, for example by responding to the selection "What is your maiden name?", The validation server can respond with "Smith".
According to this embodiment of the present invention, the player is made to identify the player's security information during the registration period before starting the game action and / or engaging in the convenient service, and then the player is made to identify the security information of the player. By allowing the game console to access that information, the player communicates with the licensed game server 110 when the accessed information is correct, the game console the player is currently using. It can be concluded that there is. Alternatively, if the information is incorrect, the player can conclude that the game console is not communicating with the licensed game server 110 and should seek assistance.
Although the present invention is described in the context of certain embodiments, many other modifications, improvements and other uses will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is preferred that the invention is not limited by the particular disclosure herein, but only by the appended claims.
[Appendix 1] A method including the following: The game machine can be operated to communicate with the game server so that the game machine and the game server supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receive a confirmation request from the verification device to confirm that; Receiving a sign from the verification device; and sending the sign to the game machine via the game server to notify the player of the sign from the game machine. [Appendix 2] The method according to Appendix 1, wherein the verification device includes a device that can be operated to receive the sign from a user of the verification device and transmit the sign to a computing device. [Appendix 3] The method described in Appendix 2, wherein the verification device includes at least one of the following: POTS telephone, mobile phone, IP telephone, personal computer, pocket personal computer, PDA, kiosk, terminal, And an input device for the computing device. [Appendix 4] The method described in Appendix 1, wherein the verification device is provided by at least one of the following: a game facility, a game authority, and a game service provider. [Appendix 5] The method according to Appendix 1, wherein the at least one game action includes at least one of the following: Gambling, betting on events, drawing, and non-gambling. [Appendix 6] According to the method described in Appendix 1, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Appendix 7] The method described in Appendix 6, said at least one convenient service includes at least one of the following: restaurant service, entertainment service, hotel service, money management service, news service, and financial exchange. service. [Appendix 8] The verification device and the game machine are integrated by the method described in Appendix 1. [Appendix 9] The method according to Appendix 1, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible signals, audible tones, audible text values, and multiple audible text values. [Appendix 10] In the method described in Appendix 1, the format of the sign received from the verification device is different from the format of the sign sent to the game machine. [Appendix 11] In the method described in Appendix 1, the game machine is one of a plurality of game machines, and the method identifies which of the plurality of game machines is confirmed. Further including determining the game machine from the plurality of game machines in order to do so. [Appendix 12] In the method described in Appendix 11, determining the game machine includes determining the game machine based on at least a part of the identification information. [Appendix 13] The method described in Appendix 12, wherein the identification information represents the game machine. [Appendix 14] The method according to Appendix 13, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The tracking value assigned to the game console and the name assigned to the game console. [Appendix 15] In the method described in Appendix 12, determining the game machine means accessing a database for determining information representing the game machine based on at least a part of the identification information. including. [Appendix 16] The method according to Appendix 15, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The name of the player using the game machine, and security information related to the player using the game machine. [Supplementary Note 17] The method according to Supplementary Note 12, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 18] In the method described in Appendix 12, sending the sign to the game machine sends the sign to the game machine via the game server based on at least a part of the identification information. Including that. [Appendix 19] Information to the player via the verification device so that the player can confirm that the verification device is communicating with the licensed server according to the method described in Appendix 1. Includes further sending. [Appendix 20] A device including a computing device programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 1. [Supplementary Note 21] The device according to Supplementary Note 20, wherein the calculation device includes the game server. [Appendix 22] Method including the following: Verification to ensure that the game machine can communicate with the game server and operate to supply the game machine and the game server with at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receiving a confirmation request from the device; receiving a sign from the game machine via the game server; and sending the sign to the verification device to notify the player of the sign from the verification device. [Appendix 23] A method including the following: The game machine can be operated to communicate with the game server so that the game machine and the game server supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receiving a confirmation request from the verification device to confirm that; receiving a label from the verification device; storing the label; Receiving the sign search request from the game machine; and sending the sign to the game machine via the game server based on at least a portion of receiving the request from the game machine, the game machine. To make a sign known to the player. [Appendix 24] The method according to Appendix 23, wherein the verification device includes a device that can be operated to receive the sign from a user of the verification device and transmit the sign to a computing device. [Appendix 25] According to the method described in Appendix 23, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Appendix 26] The verification device and the game machine are integrated by the method described in Appendix 23. [Appendix 27] The method according to Appendix 23, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible signals, audible tones, audible text values, and multiple audible text values. [Appendix 28] The method according to Appendix 23, wherein the sign includes personal information related to the player who is using the game machine. [Supplementary Note 29] In the method according to Supplementary Note 23, storing the label includes storing the label based on at least a part of the identification information. [Appendix 30] The method according to Appendix 29, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The name of the player using the game machine, security information associated with the player using the game machine, tracking values assigned to the game machine, and the name assigned to the game machine. [Supplementary Note 31] In the method according to Supplementary Note 29, storing the label includes storing the label in the database based on at least a part of the identification information. [Appendix 32] The method according to Appendix 31, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 33] In the method described in Appendix 29, preserving the label includes associating the label with the identification information. [Appendix 34] In the method described in Appendix 23, receiving the request from the game machine includes receiving the request via the game server. [Appendix 35] The method described in Appendix 23, which further includes: Determining the sign based on at least a portion of receiving the request from the game console. [Appendix 36] In the method described in Appendix 35, determining the label includes using identification information (at least a part) to determine the label. [Appendix 37] In the method of Appendix 36, storing the label comprises storing the label in a database, and using the identifying information to determine the label. It involves accessing the database to determine the label based on at least a portion of the identification information. [Supplementary Note 38] The method according to Supplementary Note 37, further including receiving the identification information from the game machine. [Appendix 39] The method according to Appendix 37, further including determining the identification information based on communication with the game machine. [Appendix 40] Information to the player via the verification device so that the player can confirm that the verification device is communicating with the licensed server according to the method described in Appendix 23. Includes further sending. [Appendix 41] A device that includes a computer programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 23. [Supplementary Note 42] The device according to Supplementary Note 41, wherein the calculation device includes the game server. [Appendix 43] A method including the following: The game machine can be operated to communicate with the game server so that the game machine and the game server supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receiving a confirmation request from the game console to confirm that; receiving a sign from the game console; storing the sign; Receiving a search request for the label from the verification device; and sending the label to the verification device based on at least part of receiving the request from the verification device, from the verification device to the user of the verification device. Inform the sign. [Appendix 44] The method according to Appendix 43, wherein the verification device includes a device that receives the sign from a computing device and can be operated to transmit the sign to a user of the verification device. [Appendix 45] According to the method described in Appendix 43, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Appendix 46] The verification device and the game machine are integrated by the method described in Appendix 43. [Supplementary Note 47] The method according to Supplementary Note 43, further including receiving the sign from the game machine via the game server. [Appendix 48] The method according to Appendix 43, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible signals, audible tones, audible text values, and multiple audible text values. [Appendix 49] The method according to Appendix 43, wherein the sign includes personal information related to the player who is using the game machine. [Supplementary Note 50] In the method described in Appendix 43, storing the label includes storing the label based on at least a part of the identification information. [Appendix 51] The method according to Appendix 50, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The name of the player using the game machine, security information associated with the player using the game machine, tracking values assigned to the game machine, and the name assigned to the game machine. [Appendix 52] The method according to Appendix 50, storing the label includes storing the label in the database based on at least a portion of the identification information. [Appendix 53] The method according to Appendix 52, further comprising receiving the identification information from the game machine. [Supplementary Note 54] The method according to Supplementary Note 52, further including determining the identification information based on communication with the game machine. [Supplementary Note 55] In the method according to Supplementary Note 50, preserving the sign includes associating the sign with the identification information. [Appendix 56] The method described in Appendix 50, which further includes: Determining the label based on at least a portion of receiving the request from the verification device. [Appendix 57] In the method according to Appendix 56, determining the label includes using identification information (at least a part) to determine the label. [Appendix 58] In the method of Appendix 57, storing the label comprises storing the label in a database, and using the identifying information to determine the label. It involves accessing the database to determine the label based on at least a portion of the identification information. [Appendix 59] The method according to Appendix 58, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 60] Information to the player via the verification device so that the player can confirm that the verification device is communicating with the licensed server according to the method described in Appendix 43. Including further sending. [Appendix 61] A device that includes a computer programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 43. [Appendix 62] The device according to Appendix 61, wherein the calculation device includes the game server. [Appendix 63] A method including the following: The game machine can be operated to communicate with the game server so that the game machine and the game server supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receive a confirmation request from the verification device to confirm that; Determining at least one action-based sign (at least part) taken by the player via the game console based on at least a portion of receiving the request; and placing the sign on the verification device. Send to notify the user of the verification device of the sign from the verification device. [Supplementary Note 64] The method according to Supplementary Note 63, wherein the verification device includes a device that can be operated to receive the sign from a computing device and transmit the sign to a user of the verification device. [Appendix 65] According to the method described in Appendix 63, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Appendix 66] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible text values, and multiple audible text values. [Appendix 67] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the sign includes information related to at least one game action involving the player via the game machine. [Appendix 68] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the sign comprises at least one of the following: the name of the game action the player is currently engaged in through the game console, the player said. The place where the player is currently involved in the game action through the game machine, the technical level obtained from the game action in which the player is currently involved through the game machine, and the player is currently involved in the game action through the game machine. The amount bet on the game action being played, the financial result of the game action currently engaged by the player through the game machine, the winning or losing result of the game action currently involved by the player through the game machine, and the above. A series of events of the game action that the player is currently involved in via the game machine. [Appendix 69] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: The name of any game action that the player was previously involved in through the game machine, the place where the player was previously involved in any game action through the game machine, the player via the game machine Obtained skill level of any previously engaged game action, amount bet on any previously involved game action by the player through the game machine, any previously involved player through the game machine. The financial result of the game act, the result of winning or losing any game act that the player was previously involved in through the game machine, and a series of events of any game act that the player was previously involved in through the game machine. .. [Appendix 70] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: A series of names of one or more game actions that the player is involved in through the game machine, a series of places where the player is involved in one or more game actions through the game machine, the game machine. The average amount bet by the player in connection with one or more game actions involving the player via the game machine, by the player associated with the one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine. A series of bet totals, a series of win / loss results associated with one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine, and one or more game actions by the player through the game machine. A series of related financial results. [Appendix 71] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the sign includes information associated with at least one convenient service involved by the player via the game console. [Appendix 72] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Reservations made by the player via the game console, scheduled to be made by the player via the game console, items purchased by the player via the game console, said via the game console. The cost of the item purchased by the player and the amount of deposit associated with the reservation made by the player through the game console. [Appendix 73] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the sign includes credit information associated with the player. [Appendix 74] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: The credit amount of the player and the transaction history of the account of the player. [Appendix 75] The method according to Appendix 63, wherein the sign includes information obtained by the game server as a result of the player involved in at least one game action via the game machine. [Appendix 76] The method according to Appendix 63, further comprising storing the sign as the player involved in at least one game action via the game machine. [Appendix 77] In the method described in Appendix 63, determining the label includes using (at least a part) identification information to determine the label. [Appendix 78] The method according to Appendix 77, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The name of the player using the game machine, security information associated with the player using the game machine, tracking values assigned to the game machine, and the name assigned to the game machine. [Appendix 79] The method of Appendix 77, wherein the indicator is stored in a database; and the use of the identification information to determine the indicator is based on at least a portion of the identification information. , Including accessing the database to determine the indicator. [Appendix 80] The method according to Appendix 79, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 81] The method of Appendix 63, determining the label includes: receiving a selection from the verification device with respect to the type of label; and identifying information and said to determine the label. Use selection (at least part). [Appendix 82] The method of Appendix 81, wherein the label is stored in a database; and using the identifying information and the selection to determine the label includes: Indexing the database based on at least a portion of the identification information; and accessing the indexed database to determine the indicator based on at least a portion of the selection. [Appendix 83] The method according to Appendix 82, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 84] Information to the player via the verification device so that the player can confirm that the verification device is communicating with the licensed server according to the method described in Appendix 63. Includes further sending. [Appendix 85] A device that includes a computer programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 63. [Appendix 86] The apparatus according to Appendix 85, wherein the calculation apparatus includes the game server. [Appendix 87] A method including the following: The game machine can be operated to communicate with the game server so that the game machine and the game server supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receive a confirmation request from the game console to confirm that Determining a sign known to the player based on at least a portion of receiving the request; and sending the sign to the game machine via the game server and from the game machine to the player. Inform the sign. [Appendix 88] According to the method described in Appendix 87, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Appendix 89] The method according to Appendix 87, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible signals, audible tones, audible text values, and multiple audible text values. [Appendix 90] The method according to Appendix 87, wherein the sign includes personal information related to the player. [Appendix 91] In the method described in Appendix 87, the sign includes a common question and an answer to the question, and the answer includes personal information related to the player. [Appendix 92] In the method described in Appendix 87, the sign includes an incomplete description and a completion for the incomplete description, and the completion for the incomplete description is personal information related to the player. including. [Supplementary Note 93] The method according to Supplementary Note 87, wherein the sign includes a value specified by the player. [Appendix 94] The method according to Appendix 93, wherein the value is specified by the player during the registration period. [Appendix 95] The method according to Appendix 87, wherein the sign is known to the player prior to receiving the request. [Appendix 96] The method of Appendix 87, determining the label, comprises using the identifying information (at least in part) to determine the label. [Appendix 97] The method according to Appendix 96, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The name of the player using the game machine, security information associated with the player using the game machine, tracking values assigned to the game machine, and the name assigned to the game machine. [Appendix 98] The method of Appendix 96, wherein the indicator is stored in a database; and the use of the identification information to determine the indicator is based on at least a portion of the identification information. , Including accessing the database to determine the indicator. [Supplementary note 99] According to the method described in Supplementary note 98, the label is read into the database during the registration period. [Appendix 100] The method according to Appendix 98, further including receiving the identification information from the game machine. [Appendix 101] The method according to Appendix 98, further including determining the identification information based on communication with the game machine. [Appendix 102] Determining the label by the method according to Appendix 87 includes: Receiving a selection from the game console with respect to the type of sign; and using the identifying information and the selection (at least in part) to determine the sign. [Appendix 103] The method of Annex 102, wherein the label is stored in a database; and using the discriminant information and the selection to determine the label includes: Indexing the database based on at least part of it; and accessing the indexed database to determine the indicator based on at least part of the selection. [Supplementary Note 104] The method according to Supplementary Note 103, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Supplementary Note 105] The method according to Supplementary Note 103, further including determining the identification information based on communication with the game machine. [Appendix 106] A device that includes a computer programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 87. [Appendix 107] The apparatus according to Appendix 105, wherein the calculation apparatus includes the game server. [Appendix 108] Method including the following: Verification to ensure that the game machine can communicate with the game server to ensure that the game machine and the game server can be operated to supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receiving a confirmation request from the device; determining the indicator based on at least part of receiving the request; Sending the sign to the game machine via the game server to cause the game machine to perform a sign known to the player; and sending the sign to the verification device from the verification device to the player. Notify the sign. [Supplementary Note 109] The method according to Supplementary Note 108, wherein the verification device includes a device that can be operated to receive the sign from a computing device and transmit the sign to a user of the verification device. [Supplementary Note 110] The method according to Supplementary Note 108, wherein the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Supplementary Note 111] In the method according to Supplementary Note 108, determining the sign includes determining a value unknown to the player. [Appendix 112] The method according to Appendix 87, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible signals, audible tones, audible text values, and multiple audible text values. [Appendix 113] The method according to Appendix 108, wherein the game machine is one of a plurality of game machines, and the method identifies which of the plurality of game machines is confirmed. Further including determining the game machine from the plurality of game machines in order to do so. [Appendix 114] In the method described in Appendix 113, determining the game machine includes determining the game machine based on at least a part of the identification information. [Appendix 115] The method described in Appendix 114, wherein the identification information represents the game machine. [Appendix 116] The method according to Appendix 115, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The tracking value assigned to the game console and the name assigned to the game console. [Appendix 117] In the method described in Appendix 114, determining the game machine means accessing a database for determining information representing the game machine based on at least a part of the identification information. including. [Appendix 118] The method according to Appendix 117, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: the name of the player using the game machine, and using the game machine. Security information related to the player. [Supplementary Note 119] The method according to Supplementary Note 114, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 120] In the method described in Appendix 114, sending the sign to the game machine sends the sign to the game machine via the game server based on at least a part of the identification information. Including that. [Appendix 121] A device that includes a computer programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 108. [Appendix 122] Method including the following: Verification to ensure that the game machine can communicate with the game server and operate to supply the game machine and the game server with at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receiving a confirmation request from the device; determining the first sign based on at least a portion of receiving the request; sending the first sign to the game console via the game server; said Receive a second sign from the verification device; Determining that the first sign matches the second sign; and sending a notification that the first sign matches the second sign to the verification device from the verification device to the player. Notify the notice. [Appendix 123] The method according to Appendix 122, wherein the verification device can be operated to receive the second sign from the user of the verification device and transmit the second sign to the computing device. Including devices. [Appendix 124] According to the method described in Appendix 122, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Appendix 125] The method according to Appendix 122, wherein the game machine is one of a plurality of game machines, and the method identifies which of the plurality of game machines is confirmed. Further including determining the game machine from the plurality of game machines in order to do so. [Appendix 126] In the method described in Appendix 125, determining the game machine includes determining the game machine based on at least a part of the identification information. [Appendix 127] The method described in Appendix 126, wherein the identification information represents the game machine. [Supplementary Note 128] The method according to Supplementary Note 127, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: a tracking value assigned to the game machine, and a name assigned to the game machine. [Appendix 129] In the method described in Appendix 126, determining the game machine means accessing a database for determining information representing the game machine based on at least a part of the identification information. including. [Appendix 130] The method according to Appendix 129, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: The name of the player using the game machine, and security information related to the player using the game machine. [Supplementary Note 131] The method according to Supplementary Note 126, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 132] In the method described in Appendix 126, sending the sign to the game machine sends the sign to the game machine via the game server based on at least a part of the identification information. Including that. [Appendix 133] In the method described in Appendix 122, determining the sign includes determining a value unknown to the player. [Appendix 134] The method according to Appendix 122, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Alphanumeric text values, multiple alphanumeric text values, audible signals, audible tones, audible text values, and multiple audible text values. [Supplementary Note 135] In the method according to Supplementary Note 122, sending the first sign to the game machine is to notify the player of the first sign by the game machine; and the method. Further includes prompting the player to send the second sign from the verification device to the game machine informing the player of the first sign. [Appendix 136] The method according to Appendix 135, wherein the second label includes the first label. [Appendix 137] A device including a computing device programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 122. [Appendix 138] A method including the following: The game machine can be operated to communicate with the game server so that the game machine and the game server supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receive a confirmation request from the verification device to confirm that; receive the first indicator from the verification device; Use (at least in part) the first sign to determine a second sign that includes a value identifiable by the player; and the second to the game console via the game server. Send a sign to notify the player of the sign from the game machine. [Appendix 139] In the method described in Appendix 138, the verification device can be operated to receive the first sign from the user of the verification device and transmit the first sign to the computing device. Including devices. [Appendix 140] According to the method described in Appendix 138, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Appendix 141] In the method described in Appendix 138, the use of the first marker to determine the second marker is to select the second indicator from a plurality of pieces of information. Includes the use of the first label (at least in part). [Appendix 142] In the method described in Appendix 141, using the first marker to determine the second indicator uses identification information (at least in part) to determine the plurality of pieces of information. Including further to do. [Supplementary Note 143] In the method described in Supplementary Note 142, the plurality of pieces of information are stored in a database; and the use of the above-mentioned identification information to determine the plurality of pieces of information is at least a part of the above-mentioned identification information. Including accessing the database to determine the plurality of pieces of information based on. [Supplementary Note 144] The method according to Supplementary Note 143, further comprising receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Supplementary Note 145] The method according to Supplementary Note 142, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: the name of the player who is using the game machine, the said who is using the game machine. Security information associated with the player, tracking values assigned to the game console, and names assigned to the game console. [Appendix 146] The method according to Appendix 141, wherein the plurality of pieces of information include at least one of the following: Player security information, information related to one or more game actions involving the player via the game machine, information related to one or more convenient services involving the player via the game machine, And credit information associated with the player. [Appendix 147] The method according to Appendix 138, wherein the second indicator includes at least one of the following: player security information, one or more games involving the player via the game console. Information related to the act, information related to one or more convenient services involving the player via the game console, and credit information related to the player. [Appendix 148] The method according to Appendix 138, wherein the second indicator includes at least one of the following: personal information associated with the player, and a value specified by the player. [Appendix 149] The method according to Appendix 138, wherein the second label comprises at least one of the following: One or more names of one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine, one or more places where the player is involved in one or more game actions through the game machine, said game One or more acquired skill levels of one or more game acts involving the player through the machine, one or more bet on one or more game acts involving the player through the game machine Total amount, average amount bet by the player in connection with one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine, one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine One or more financial results, one or more win / loss results of one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine, and one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine. A series of events. [Appendix 150] The method according to Appendix 138, wherein the second label comprises at least one of the following: Reservations made by the player via the game console, scheduled to be made by the player via the game console, items purchased by the player via the game console, said via the game console. The cost of the item purchased by the player and the amount of deposit associated with the reservation made by the player through the game console. [Appendix 151] The method according to Appendix 138, wherein the second indicator includes at least one of the following: the credit amount of the player and the transaction history of the player's accounts receivable. [Appendix 152] A device including a computing device programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 138. [Appendix 153] A method including the following: The game machine can be operated to communicate with the game server so that the game machine and the game server supply at least one game action to the player using the game machine. Receive a confirmation request from the verification device to confirm that; Determining a sign containing a value that can be confirmed by the player; and sending the sign to the game machine via the game server to notify the player of the sign from the game machine. [Appendix 154] According to the method described in Appendix 153, the game machine and the game server can also be operated to provide at least one convenient service to the player. [Supplementary Note 155] In the method according to Supplementary Note 153, determining the sign and sending the sign are to determine the sign and to send the sign based on at least a part of receiving the request. Including sending. [Appendix 156] The method according to Appendix 153, wherein the label comprises a second label, which further comprises: Receiving the first sign from the verification device; and sending the second sign to the game console via the game server based on at least a portion of receiving the first sign. [Supplementary Note 157] The method according to Supplementary Note 156, wherein the first sign includes a command for sending the second sign to the game machine via the game server. [Appendix 158] In the method described in Appendix 153, determining the sign includes determining the sign from a plurality of pieces of information. [Appendix 159] In the method described in Appendix 158, determining the label further includes using (at least a portion) the identifying information to determine the plurality of pieces of information. [Appendix 160] In the method described in Appendix 159, the plurality of pieces of information are stored in a database; and the use of the said identification information to determine the plurality of pieces of information is at least a portion of the identification information. Including accessing the database to determine the plurality of pieces of information based on. [Appendix 161] The method of Appendix 160 further comprises receiving the identification information from the verification device. [Appendix 162] The method according to Appendix 159, wherein the identification information includes at least one of the following: the name of the player using the game machine, the said using the game machine. Security information associated with the player, tracking values assigned to the game console, and names assigned to the game console. [Appendix 163] In the method described in Appendix 158, determining the sign from the plurality of information includes randomly selecting the sign from the plurality of information. [Appendix 164] In the method described in Appendix 158, determining the sign from the plurality of pieces of information includes selecting from one or more predetermined pieces of the plurality of pieces of information. [Appendix 165] The method according to Appendix 158, wherein the plurality of pieces of information include at least one of the following: Player security information, information related to one or more game actions involving the player via the game machine, information related to one or more convenient services involving the player via the game machine, And credit information associated with the player. [Appendix 166] The method of Appendix 153, wherein the sign comprises at least one of the following: player security information, relating to one or more gaming actions involving the player through the game console. Information, information related to one or more convenient services involving the player through the game console, and credit information related to the player. [Appendix 167] The method of Appendix 153, wherein the sign comprises at least one of the following: personal information associated with the player, and a value specified by the player. [Appendix 168] The method according to Appendix 153, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: One or more names of one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine, one or more places where the player is involved in one or more game actions through the game machine, said game One or more acquired skill levels of one or more game acts involving the player through the machine, one or more bet on one or more game acts involving the player through the game machine Total amount, average amount bet by the player in connection with one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine, one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine One or more financial results, one or more win / loss results of one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine, and one or more game actions involving the player through the game machine. A series of events. [Appendix 169] The method according to Appendix 153, wherein the label comprises at least one of the following: Reservations made by the player via the game console, scheduled to be made by the player via the game console, items purchased by the player via the game console, said via the game console. The cost of the item purchased by the player and the amount of deposit associated with the reservation made by the player through the game console. [Appendix 170] The method of Appendix 153, wherein the indicator comprises at least one of the following: the credit amount of the player and the transaction history of the player's accounts receivable. [Appendix 171] A device including a computing device programmed to perform the method described in Appendix 153.
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Numbers
- Publication
- 6553149
- Application
- 197326
Titles2
- Japanese
- ゲームサーバと通信しているゲーム機を決定する装置および方法
- English
- Devices and methods for determining the game console communicating with the game server
Classification
- CPC, 3
- G07F17/3241
- G07F17/32
- G07F17/3232
- IPC, 5
- A63F13 71
- A63F13 73
- A63F13 79
- A63F13 30
- G06F21 31
