US20070072682A1 - Head to head electronic poker game assembly and method of operation - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic poker game assembly preferably provides a head-to-head poker game for two players. The assembly has a housing that is preferably a table and contains at least a portion of a computer system that generates and shuffles a virtual poker card deck, deals the cards and performs other tasks typically associated with a dealer. The housing supports an electronic player interaction area (EPIA) for each player and a common display area. Dealt virtual hole cards are displayed on screens of each EPIA and virtual common cards are preferably displayed on a screen of the common display area. Mechanical actuators for each EPIA are operated by the players when playing poker, sending electric signals to the computer system for play of the game.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS
• The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/722,019, filed Sep. 29, 2005, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/822,428, filed Aug. 15, 2006, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/743,436, filed Mar. 8, 2006, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates generally to a poker game assembly, and more particularly, to an electronic head-to-head poker game assembly and method of operating the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Gaming is an increasingly popular form of entertainment. Games, particularly, games of chance and skill in which one or more players play and place wagers on the outcome thereof may be played in a variety of ways, including at a casino or on the Internet. Of the various forms of games which are available for play, many are played with playing cards. Of these, poker is arguably the most popular.
• Traditionally, poker is played at a table with several players wagering paper, coin money or chips on a series of playing cards dealt from a deck of fifty-two cards. This deck is comprised of four suits at thirteen cards per suit. This form of poker requires a human dealer to coordinate the game, including dealing, wagering, folding, etc. One of the problems with traditional poker is that it suffers from the possibility of human/dealer error. In “social” card games, especially poker, the players take turns acting as the dealer, but in licensed commercial gaming establishments, such as casinos, the dealer is typically a non-playing employee. Thus, another problem associated with traditional poker games in this context is the training and retention of dealers.
• Video games often seen in bar and restaurant environments are also known to incorporate limited aspects of poker. Such poker-like video games, however, typically challenge a single player only and thus the game is not a true form of poker and lacks the enjoyment of the human element. That is, many people prefer to play poker against other players, due in part to the drama associated with “live” gaming. Undoubtedly, an elevated level of competition exists when humans compete directly against one another. Experienced players are trying to hone strategy and read other players' intentions through their movements and style of play to be more competitive.
• More recent developments and disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/073,774, “Electronic Card Table Having a Display Device for Implementing Electronic Play Interaction Areas,” filed Mar. 7, 2005 and assigned to the same assignee as the present invention and incorporated herein by reference in it's entirety, is a casino based electronic poker table system. This system alleviates any possibility of dealer errors and is manageable in a casino based environment. Such electronic tables are designed to seat typically up to ten players with a focus of no less than three or four players due in-part to player orientation and gaming rules such as house collections. Unfortunately, these tables are complex and generally not stand-alone. They typically require computer-based servers for continuous interaction with the casino establishment, the casino's floor management, and some form of credit management for the distribution of credit, house rakes and jackpot winnings. They are thus expensive and not practical for use in social environments and establishments such as bars and restaurants.
• Moreover, the known electronic poker tables generally for use in casinos do not necessarily cater to the preferences of, for instance, restaurant patrons. Arguably, the typical bar or restaurant patron prefers the feel of an “arcade” type game having any variety of mechanics, such as mechanical buttons and trackballs to further the excitement of the game. Known casino-based electronic poker tables are generally video based having touch interaction screens for use by the players. In fact, at a true “casino” poker table, the mechanical operation of an arcade game could be considered a distraction by many players.
• The present invention is aimed at one or more of the problems set forth above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• An electronic poker game assembly preferably provides a head-to-head poker game for two players. The assembly has a housing that is preferably a table and contains at least a portion of a computer system that generates and shuffles a virtual poker card deck, deals the cards, administers virtual chips, determines a winner from among the players, awards a pot to the winner at the end of the hand, and performs other tasks typically associated with a dealer. The housing supports an electronic player interaction area (EPIA) for each player and a common display area. Dealt virtual hole cards are displayed on screens of each EPIA and virtual common cards are preferably displayed on a screen of the common display area. Mechanical actuators for each EPIA are operated by the players when playing poker, sending electric signals to the computer system for play of the game.
• Preferably, the table has a table top and the screens of the EPIA are generally recessed below the table top. Each table has a credit mechanism for accepting payment from the players to play the game for a set period of time, a pre-established number of virtual chips, or a set number of hands. Each EPIA may also have a bluff detector for enhancing one's determination of whether their opponents are bluffing. The mechanical actuators preferably have a trackball for adjusting betting amounts, a commit button for committing a bet, a fold button for folding a hand and a view button for discrete viewing of respective hole cards.
• A method of operation of the assembly includes a first step where first and second players position themselves in front of respective EPIA. A second step entails dealing of a virtual hand by the computer system from the virtual card deck. When dealt, electronic screens of each EPIA display virtual hole cards face down. Each player can then manual move respective mechanical actuators to discretely view their hole cards. Preferably, betting can them be conducted by the players via manual actuation of the trackball.
• In one aspect of the present invention, the assembly is arcade-like and generally self contained. Because money does not exchange hands between players, the arcade-like assembly can be used in establishments such as restaurants that do not having gambling licenses. The computer system of the arcade-like assembly has a computer preferably contained in the table that controls the common display area, the EPIA and the dealer functions. Preferably, the computer system has a server that may be remotely located for approval of credit cards swiped in the credit mechanism. Game history may be downloaded from the computer and to the server for future viewing of the players preferably over the internet.
• In another aspect of the present invention, the assembly is casino-like and may conduct actual wagering where money does exchange hands between players. The credit mechanism may include or be substituted for a virtual pin pad for player access to pre-established accounts. The server of the computer system for the casino-like assembly may generally control the game for all the tables.
• Benefits and advantages of the present invention include an automated electronic gaming system that is relatively inexpensive and generally self-contained thus being ideal for establishments such as restaurants not traditionally in the gaming industry. Other advantages include a relatively compact design, accentuated bluffing aspects, and a horizontal table top for the dual purpose of beverage and food service and play of the game.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a head-to-head electronic poker game assembly embodying the present invention;
• FIG. 2 is a cross section view of the assembly taken along line2-2 ofFIG. 1;
• FIG. 3 is a view of a table top of the assembly illustrating a common display area and two electronic player interaction areas of the assembly during play;
• FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the assembly;
• FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of a computer of the assembly;
• FIG. 6 is a representation of a screen shot displayed on a screen of the electronic player interaction area prior to play;
• FIG. 7 is a block diagram of software components of the assembly;
• FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a method of operation of the assembly; and
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the assembly in a casino or tournament-like environment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
• With reference to the drawings and in operation, the present invention relates generally to a head-to-head electronicpoker game assembly10 and method of operating the same. With reference toFIG. 1, theassembly10 is generally self-contained and designed to be situated in any variety of environments including bar and restaurant environments where playing poker and/or gambling is not necessarily the primary business of the establishment. More specifically, the design ofassembly10 is such that the overall configuration is relatively compact and inexpensive, thus enabling it's use in establishments not just limited to casinos, and for establishments with limited finances. The electronic game generally controlled or played by theassembly10 is preferably a Texas Hold'em form of poker, but may also include any variety of card games preferably played by afirst player12 and an opposing second player14 (as shown inFIG. 2).
• The Assembly
• Referring toFIGS. 1-5, in one embodiment, theassembly10 has acomputer system15 having acomputer16 preferably located in ahousing18 that controls at least in-part the poker game. That is, theassembly10 can handle all dealer functions, thus does not require a human dealer. By eliminating the human aspect of a typical poker table, it is economically more feasible to manufacture poker tables or set-ups such asassembly10 that are smaller than the traditional casino type poker tables, and that serve a limited number of players. Thecomputer system15 generates electronic or virtual chips, accepts wagers and assigns a pot to the winning player. For the game of Texas Hold'em poker, thecomputer system15 deals hole card(s)17 to eachplayer12,14 from a virtual card deck generated and generally shuffled by the computer system. Thehole cards17 are displayed as an electronically generated image on first and second electronicplayer interaction areas22,24 of theassembly10 supported by thehousing18 and orientated in front of each respective first andsecond player12,14. Preferably, thehousing18 also supports acentral display area26 for the display of dealt virtualcommon cards28 also dealt by the computer from thevirtual card deck20.
• Thehousing18 may be a table having a substantially horizontal glass or clear table top30 having a substantiallyhorizontal surface32 for viewing of thecentral display area26 orientated preferably below. One such table that is ideal for two person play is a cocktail table. Preferably, thetable top30 spans across the entire table18 or a sizeablecentral portion34 and may be used for setting of beverages and food by patrons of the establishment. The tempered glass that preferably carries thehorizontal surface32 also functions to protect the electronic components of theassembly10 positioned below from spilt beverages and food while being easy to clean or wipe-down. Thetable top30 also hasopposite wings36,38 that are cantilevered in substantially opposite directions and outward from thecentral portion34. Thewings36,38 support respective EPIA's22,24 in-part beneath thetable top30. Atable base40 projects upward from the floor and to thecentral portion34 for supporting thetable top30 and preferably housing thecomputer16 and other components in a tamper proof encasement.
• Preferably, the first andsecond wings36,38 slope slightly downward as they project outward from thecentral portion34. This slight angle, such as that of a keyboard, adds comfort for therespective player12,14 while hindering the ability of one player to view the other player'svirtual hold cards17 displayed via respective EPIA's22,24. Preferably, thewings36,38 are at a sufficient height from the floor so that theplayers12,14 can comfortably sit in respective chairs with knees located beneath thewings36,38 and facing one-another thus generally being head-to-head. Preferably, nothing projects above thetable top30 which would block the view of the opposing player. General full view of the opposing player, as in traditional poker, is advantageous for a player's determination of whether the opposing player is bluffing through interpretation of facial expressions, body language or body movement.
• Eachwing36,38 may further be a box-like structure for encasing the respective EPIA's22,24 for tamper-proof protection while including a lockable door or access panel beneath (not shown) for ease of maintenance of the EPIA's. One skilled in the art, however, would now know that thehousing18 can be any variety of structures including a pedestal table with the players standing, a portion of a bar with the players generally sitting side-by-side, or some form of a modular arrangement capable of being placed on any pre-existing surface of the establishment. Moreover, one skilled in the art would now know that theassembly10 may not be limited to two players and could be arranged for play of two or more players.
• The head-to-head electronicpoker game assembly10 may generally entail a self-contained arcade-like embodiment or a casino-type embodiment. For simplicity of explanation, the arcade-like applications such as that used in establishments not licensed to conduct gambling where money exchanges hands between players is described first. Although thecomputer16 of the arcade-like assembly10 can be remotely located, it is preferably located in thetable base40, and includes a processor capable of running an operating system, such as Windows XP or Windows CE, both available from Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash. Thecomputer16 is coupled to and preferably controls, operates and runs thecentral display area26 and the EPIA's22,24. However, more than one computer may be designed into thecomputer system15. For instance, each EPIA may actually be controlled via their own computer that then communicates with thecomputer16. Eachcentral display area26 may also include a dedicated computer for all or isolated functions such as the control and display of visual advertisement.
• Referring toFIG. 4, thecomputer16 of the arcade-like assembly10 may also be connected to a remotely locatedserver42 of thecomputer system15 through a network13 and/orcellular modem44 for continuous or intermittent communication with theserver42. Thecomputer16 may upload game play data to theserver42 for future review by theplayers12,14 over, for instance, theinternet45. In another aspect of the present invention, theserver42 of thecomputer system15 may be connected to a plurality ofcomputers16 in a plurality of tables18 of a plurality of establishments or sites. Theserver42 may then function to intermittently verify game licensing stored in all thecomputers16, and selectively deactivate/activate tables at remote sites. Theserver42 for the arcade-like assembly10 may also implement and facilitate, player tracking, ticket in ticket out (cashless) wagering, tournament play, table set-up (including modifying table parameters), and progressive jackpots.
• Referring toFIGS. 3 and 5, thegame computer16 of the generally self containedassembly10 implements a game engine orsoftware46 that deals the hands of the electronic poker game. The hand of the electronic poker game comprises the virtual common andhole cards28,17 of the cardvirtual deck20. Thegame computer16 displays thevirtual cards28,17 on the EPIA's22,24 and/or thecentral display area26 and administers the electronic poker game using electronic orvirtual chips48 and thevirtual card deck20.
• In one embodiment, the individual EPIA's22,24 are used to convey game information directly to the respectively assignedplayers12,14 and to implement a mechanical set ofactuators50 of eachEPIA22,24 to effectuate interaction or input from the players to the computer16 (seeFIGS. 1 and 3). The central orcommon display area26 is a monitor or electronic screen used to display information to bothplayers12,14. EachEPIA22,24 also has anelectronic screen52 that is recessed beneath thetable top30 at the bottom of well53 inrespective wings36,38. In one embodiment, thedisplay area26 and/or thescreen52 may be a LCD or plasma monitor or similar device. In another embodiment, thedisplay area26 andscreens52 may be one common electronic screen without thewells53 and with segmented areas controlled by thecomputer16. Theglass table top30 may contain the glass filters generally located over the player EPIA's to obscure visual recognition ofhole cards17 by the opponent or third parties viewing from the side. Thescreens26,52 preferably do not have touch activated capability. Instead, the mechanical set ofactuators50 are utilized to add excitement to the game in the arcade-like setting and to reduce overall cost of theassembly10.
• Thescreens52 of the EPIA's22,24 and thecentral display area26 may be set apart from the rest of thetable top30 by virtual borders. The areas of the display around the EPIA's22,24 and thecentral display area26 may be used to simulate the table surface of a standard poker table, e.g., an image of material, such as green felt, may be displayed. Furthermore, logos, game information, promotional information, advertisements, announcements, pictures, videos, or other information may be displayed, rotated, cycled, or displayed for a limited period of time ondisplay area26 directly beneath theclear table top30. These videos can be played by avideo device49 such as a DVD-ROM integrated into thecomputer16 or in the alternative, theserver42 of thecomputer system15.
• Theassembly10 may include a virtual pin pad orkeyboard66 displayed discretely on thescreen52 of eachEPIA22,24 preferably prior to game play. Such apin pad66 can be operated via use of thetrackball54 for selection, and the commitbutton58 for committing the selection. Thepin pad66 can be used for registration of a player, thus allowing the player to review their history of play at a later date preferably over the internet, and for identifying and for recognition and congratulations of a game winner. This recognition may include extended publication displayed on thedisplay area26 for extended periods of time for the viewing of all patrons of the establishment.
• The mechanical set ofactuators50 of the EPIA's22,24 allow the player to take an appropriate action, such as bet, fold, or call, during their turn. Unlikescreen52, the mechanical set ofactuators50 protrude through thetable top30. Each set ofactuators50 may have atrackball54, afold button56, a commit oraction button58, and a show-cards button60. Each of themechanical actuators50 are selectively activated by thecomputer16 and when mechanically actuated, the respective actuator sends an electrical signal to thecomputer16 for processing.
• When a player desires to make a bet, thetrackball54 may be rotated to generally select the bet amount. This bet amount is preferably committed when the player depresses the commitbutton58. Alternatively, when themechanical fold button56 is depressed by any one player the respective player's hand is folded. When the show-cards button60 is depressed by the player, the face downhole cards17 displayed onscreen52 are discretely revealed to the player. Another system and method for controllably displaying/obscuring the player's virtual hole card(s) is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/939,772, filed Sep. 13, 2004, assigned to the same assignee as the present invention, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
• During any round of betting, any player can fold by depressing thefold button56 of the mechanical set ofactuators50. Otherwise, the player may select a wager amount using thetrackball54. The smallest bet amount, often referred to as the check/call, is the base or origin position of thetrackball54. The player increases the amount by rotating or rolling in-place the trackball along a predetermined path, e.g., the vertical axis. The bet amount increases relative to how far thetrackball54 is turned, and will preferably reach its maximum when allvirtual chips48 are in. Bet amounts will increase at predefined increments relative to the big blind (e.g. 2×, 3×, 4×, 5×, etc. . . . ). Thetrackball54 can be spun rapidly to progress the betting amount to the desired number of virtual chips. Once the desired amount of chips is reached, the player commits the amount by pressing the commitbutton58. In one embodiment, the rate of increase in the bet amount may be a function of the rate or speed of thetrackball54. Additionally, the bet amount may automatically be increased to a maximum bet amount as a function of the speed of thetrackball54, e.g., when the speed equals or exceeds a predetermined value. The bet amount, as it increases or decreases may be shown numerically and/or visually as stack(s) of chip(s).
• In one embodiment, thecomputer16 through therespective EPIA22,24 selectively activates specific ones of the set ofactuators50 that are appropriate, given the rules of the game being played, during the current turn. For example, if the maximum number of raises for a particular game have already been made, then thetrackball54 may be inactive. Additionally,trackball54 andbuttons56,58,60 may be inactive when it is not the player's turn. One skilled in the art would now know that a single push button and/or trackball may perform multiple functions as effectuated by thecomputer16, and that thetrackball54 and/or buttons could be replaced with any variety of mechanical devices included that of a pivoting joy stick or wheel.
• Theassembly10 provides player excitement in-part by having the twoplayers12,14 face one-another for the determination of player bluffing through evaluation of facial expressions and body language. This excitement is preferably further accentuated by abluff detector62 of eachEPIA22,24. Thebluff detector62 is preferably a two-contact heart rate monitor having acontact pad63 exposed through thetable top30 at eachwing36,38. Heart rate measurement data is generated when the players place two fingers upon thepad63. The data may be displayed on thecentral display area26 in real time and can be stored in thecomputer16 orserver42 for future reference should aplayer12,14 wish to review prior game play and factors that affect bluffing.
• In one aspect of the present invention, theassembly10 includes a sound generation device (not shown) that is used to generate sounds audible to theplayers12,14. The sound generation device may be implemented as an earpiece or headphones or one or more speakers. Generated sounds may be categorized as system sound or player sounds. System sounds include sounds that are intended or suitable to be heard by everyone, including other players and non-players. Player sounds include sounds that are intended to be heard, but not necessarily only, by the player. Example, system sounds may include sounds imitating the shuffling of virtual cards, the dealing of cards, chips thrown into the pot, or sounds related to the winning of the jackpot. Player sounds may include a reminder or indication of a player's turn or if the game is timed, an indication of the time remaining or that time is running out. Player exclusive sounds are sounds that can or should only be heard by the player and may indicate an audible signal indicating the player's hole cards or the highest hand of the player or a winning percentage associated with the player's hand.
• Revenue Generation
• Theassembly10 has apayment mechanism64 mounted to thehousing18 and preferably at thebase40. Themechanism64 may be any variety of devices with any variety of revenue collecting methods including the acceptance of cash or the swiping of a credit card. The credit card information can then be sent by themodem44 to theserver42 for approval. Preferably, patrons of the establishment or restaurant who want to play a game of poker may insert cash into themechanism64 that communicates directly with thecomputer16. The amount of money inserted may determine the number of virtual starting chips48. For instance, a deposit of three dollars may get a predetermined number of value in virtual chips and a deposit of five dollars may get a greater number or value of virtual chips. The number of chips may increase linearly with the deposit given, or in the alternative, a player may be encouraged to maximize the deposit by providing a greater number of chips than a linear relationship would otherwise dictate. The number of chips indirectly affects the length of play time. That is, for a five dollar deposit and assuming 75-90 hands per hour, the tournament play should be about fifteen minutes. In another aspect of the present invention, via a deposit, the player may be directly purchasing a number of hands as oppose to chips.
• Alternatively, the deposit may cause thecomputer16 to provide a time duration of play with or without additional options revealed on thecentral display area26. For instance, a first option may be that thecomputer16 provides thevirtual chips48 thus actual cash winnings never exchange hands betweenplayers12,14 and any award is simply game winner recognition. A second option may be that theplayers12,14 utilize actual chips transferred between players above thetable top30. This option would generally cause thecomputer16 to deactivate some of the features of themechanical actuators50.
• Screen Images and Virtual Components
• Each electronic playing card of thevirtual card deck20 has a front side and a back side. The back side of each card has an identical pattern or image such that the cards cannot be individually identified or told-apart when viewing the back side. The virtual card deck may be a standard deck of fifty-two cards, each card having a value. The value being two components: the first component being one of a “two” through “ACE” and the second component being one of four suits (hearts, diamonds, clubs, spades). The value of each virtual card is indicated on the front side of each playing card.
• The image displayed on the back side of the playing cards may be a logo, a random image (chosen from a set of predetermined images), or may be advertising directed at theplayers12,14. The image may include a video. In one embodiment, the image displayed on the back side of the playing cards may be cycled through a set of predetermined images. The image may be selectable by a user, who may be theplayers12,14, an employee of the establishment, or by a third party through theserver42 for purposes of indirectly collecting advertisement revenue.
• Prior to game play and during game registration, the keyboard and orpin pad66 is displayed discretely on thescreens52 of the EPIA's22,24. During game play, thescreen52 of the EPIA's22,24 preferably displays only the virtual hole card(s)17 and in the face down position to simulate traditional poker play. Eachplayer12,14 can discretely view theirhole cards17 by depressing the show-cards button60.
• Referring toFIG. 3, the central display area orscreen26 may display advertising and/or previous game winner recognition as previously described. During game play, thescreen26 graphically displays thecommon cards28, apot68 preferably in the form of stacked virtual chips, and adealer icon70 for purposes of betting. Adjacent to eachEPIA22,24, thescreen26 also displays bet staging72 that is a graphical display of stacked virtual chips, a holecard duplicate display74 and aninformation field76. Theinformation field76 lists mychips78, opponent chips80 and any variety ofother game statistics82 including blinds and player rankings.
• Rankings of thegame statistics82 may be based on previous play. Preferably, a tiered system of player skill is also instituted wherein the player can progress to new levels as their experience increases. For instance, progressive skill levels could be termed: fish, homne gamer, amateur, semi-pro, pro, shark, and the like. These skill levels are preferably displayed in theinformation field76.
• In another aspect of the present invention, thecentral display area26 may provide an indication of whose turn it is to act. In one embodiment, thecentral display area26 may provide an appropriate signal, such an icon, e.g., an arrow or other symbol, a sound such as a beep or musical tones, and/or a voice message. This indication of a player's turn may be in addition to an indication on the EPIA's22,24.
• Software and Hardware
• With particular reference toFIGS. 5 and 7, from a software perspective thesystem10 may be implemented using six program groups: thegame engine46, atable server84, atable client86, atable manager88, aplayer client90, and acage manager92. Thetable server84 is preferably associated with theserver42 and implements the network communication, control and authentication as well as inter-table functions (seat reservations, multi-table tournaments). Thegame engine46 administers the electronic poker game and is responsible for all game functions, e.g., electronic playing card deck generation, dealing, betting, determining winners and awarding pots. Thetable client86 is the graphical control for thecentral display area26. Theplayer client90 implements the user interface for the EPIA's22,24 and the logic for capturing player input and communication from the player input to the table client server. Thetable manager88 contains the user interface for setting user, network, and game parameters, for starting, pausing, and stopping games, and for monitoring game activity and responding to system or user generated alerts. Thecage manager92 provides the ability to create and fund player accounts.
• Preferably thecomputer system15 of theassembly10 can boot from read-only media such as a DVD-ROM, so that the media can simply be replaced for upgrade. A persistent media, such as a flash drive, may be incorporated so that game data, cash-in, and the like can be saved and retrieved.
• Player Website
• Referring toFIG. 4, theassembly10 may include aplayer website94 that upon entry of an account/registration identification, provides individual players the ability to view and analyze hand history and even replay past tournaments preferably via a flash plug-in or the like. Players would be able to see the hole cards of their opponents online. Using the stored game data off theserver42, all of the action could be replayed, including the hand statistics, such as chance of winning, as each hand unfolds. The experience is designed to make the player(s)12,14 feel as if they are watching themselves play on television in a real professional tournament. Through the website, players may also cash-in on player points, buy branded items, and purchase credit for future play.
• Thewebsite94 may have acommunity area96 for players to share experience or create their own blog. They may also choose to share replays of past tournaments with the community to invite analysis and critique that of other players. Through thewebsite94 players can view their global ranking and personal statistics across all sites and see how they compare against other competitors. Thewebsite94 may also be used for encouraging participation in organized leagues and viewing of locations and dates of special events.
• Assembly Operation and Game Play
• Referring toFIG. 8 and during operation of theassembly10, the twoplayers12,14 position themselves100 in front of respective EPIA's22,24 and one of the twoplayers12,14 deposits cash into or swipes acredit card102 across thepayment mechanism64. The amount of money inserted preferably determines the number of virtual starting chips48. For instance, a deposit of three dollars may get 50,000 chips and a deposit of five dollars may get 100,0000 chips. The number of chips indirectly affects the length of play time.
• After the deposit of cash or credit card, eachplayer12,14 preferably sets up or logs into apre-existing account104 by entering their username/PIN using thetrackball54 to navigate the keyboard and/orpin pad66 and commit selections via the commitbutton58. If the player does not yet have a user account, the player can skip this registration portion and set an account up after the tournament or play completes. Such an account can also later be established over a website via theserver42.
• The game ideally suited for theassembly10 is a version of poker commonly known as Texas Hold'em, but may also be other versions of poker such as Omaha Poker. For Texas Hold'em, thecomputer system15 first randomly assigns106 a player to a dealer position as indicated bydealer icon70. If bychance player12 is designated as the dealer, thedealer icon70 appears on thescreen26 nearEPIA22. Thecomputer system15 then automatically takes a small blind from the virtual chips ofplayer14 and a big blind108 from the virtual chips of player (dealer)12. The small and big blinds are compulsory bets wherein the big blind is typically twice that of the small blind.
• Thegame engine46 of thecomputer system15 then generates a virtual poker card deck and deals112 eachplayer12,14 two virtual hole cards17 (the pre-flop), displayed face down onscreens52 of the EPIA's22,24. After thehole cards17 are dealt, eachplayer12,14 can discretely view their cards by pressing114 the respective show-cards button60 of themechanical actuator50 which sends an electrical signal to thecomputer system15 causing the system to reveal116 the cards. Because the big blind was previously placed byplayer12,player14 now has the action to call, call and raise, or fold as is generally common in traditional Texas Hold'em poker.
• After the hole cards are dealt, thegame engine46 administers a first betting round and thecomputer system15 will indicate118 whichplayer12,14 has the turn to act. This indication will preferably appear on the EPIA's22,24. In this case,player14 will know it's his/her turn to act by an appropriate signal, such as an icon, either next to their name or anywhere on theEPIA24, a sound such as a beep or musical tones, and/or a voice message.
• At this juncture of play,player14 may not check because the big blind placed byplayer12 plays as a bet. Ifplayer14 calls,player14 need not rotate thetrackball54 because thecomputer16 has already designated the minimum bet amount. That is, if the big blind is twice that of the small blind, the minimum and only bet amount in this instance is equal to the small blind amount. To call,player14 only needs to depress the commitbutton58 and thecomputer16 transfers the correct amount ofvirtual chips48 from the bet staging72 and into thepot68. Ifplayer14 desires to call and raise120, thenplayer14 must rotate thetrackball54 generally vertically upward. The raise amount will be indicated122 as the bet staging72 and may generally be in increments that represent multiples of the big blind amount. Ifplayer14 overshoots his desired raise or the facial expression or the recordedheart rate124 ofplayer12 should causeplayer14 to change his/her mind, thenplayer14 can reverse or rotate the trackball generally downward to reduce the raise. Once the raise amount is determined,player14 presses126 the commitbutton58 and the virtual chips from bet staging72 are transferred to thepot68. Ifplayer14 decides to fold128 instead of call or raise, thenplayer14 presses thefold button56 and thepot68 is awarded130 toplayer12 via thecomputer system15.
• Similarly, and afterplayer14 calls and/or raises the bet,player12 by utilizingEPIA22, has the options to check ifplayer14 had only called which would end the betting round, raise the call ofplayer14 which would continue the betting round, call the raise ofplayer14 which ends the betting round, or raise the raise ofplayer14 which would continue the betting round. Betting in this way continues between players until one player folds or calls without raising.Computer system15 recognizes all betting options in advance. For instance, forplayer12 to check his/her bet afterplayer14 has called,player12 only needs to press the commitbutton58 because the computer has programmed thetrackball54 with a minimum bid of zero in this instance.
• Once the initial betting round ends, thecomputer16 then deals134 the flop, which is preferably three virtual cards of thecommon cards28 face-up in thecentral display area26. Becauseplayer12 remains the represented dealer,player14 begins thesecond round136 of betting.Player14 has the option to check or bet and such is conducted as described above. Ifplayer14 checks,player12 has the option to check which would end the betting round. Ifplayer14 bets,player12 has the option to fold and the pot goes toplayer14, the option to call and the second betting round is ended, and the option to raise the raise and the betting round continues.
• When the second betting round ends, thecomputer16 deals a turn card or the fourthcommon card28 face-up, and which is imaged in the central display area. This begins the third betting round starting again withplayer14. If neither player has folded, thecomputer16 deals a river card or the fifthcommon card28 face-up and a fourth betting round is conducted. After the fourth betting round, if neither player has folded then a showdown begins. Thecomputer16 automatically conducts the showdown by revealing both player'shole card17. This is done by flipping the duplicate displays74 on thecentral display area26. Although the winner can then be determined by the players, the computer system will automatically announce the winner andaward138 the pot.
• For the next hand, thecomputer system15 will assignplayer14 as the represented dealer and play begins accordingly. The poker game continues by alternating140 represented dealer designation between players and from one hand to the next until one of theplayers12,14 has won all of thevirtual chips48. Thecomputer system15 determines andawards142 the winning player.
• During play, should a player receive a “bad beat,” bonus chips may be awarded giving the player further incentive to play risky draws, and allowing them to stay in the game instead of walking out over a bad beat. Extra chips may be awarded to the losing hand based on their specific hand. For instance, pocket aces of a losing hand could be awards two times the big blind amount of chips, a flush may be awarded five time the big blind amount of chips, and a full house may be awarded ten times the big blind amount of chips. Moreover, a showdown odds feature may be included wherein if a player is all-in before all the common cards are dealt, the odds of either player's hand winning as the remaining common cards are dealt is dealt preferably with some degree of graphical drama.
• Upon completion of a poker game, thecomputer16 preferably uploads the game history to theserver42. Either player can then view146 their game history preferably over theinternet45.
• Modified Casino-Like Assembly
• Referring toFIG. 9, a modified casino-like assembly10′ is illustrated wherein similar components to that of the self-contained arcade-like assembly10 have the same identifying numerals except with the addition of a prime symbol. Theassembly10′ has a plurality of tables18′ preferably in a common area such as that found in a casino environment. Like in a licensed casino environment, acomputer system15′ is preferably adapted so that money does exchange hands betweenplayers12′,14′ while acasino148 or licensed establishment collects revenue and/or rakes.
• Assembly10′ is not necessarily self-contained in that thecommon server42′ of thecomputer system15′ associated with all the tables18′ may have and generally control thegame engine46′, thetable server84′, thetable client86′, theplayer client88′, thetable manager90′, and thecage manager92′ as generally described previously for the arcade-like assembly10. Each table18′ of thecomputer system15′ may have a dedicatedcomputer16′ for general control of game play not controlled by thecommon server42′. The close proximity of the tables18′ to one another is particularly advantageous and adds excitement to, for instance, tournament type play of poker. One skilled in the art however, would now know that the tables18′ need not be localized for tournament play and can be scattered about various establishments yet linked by thecommon server42′. Moreover, thecomputer16′ orcomputer system15′ may be theserver42′, which may be networked to the multiple electronic poker tables18′.
• In one aspect of the present invention, the poker tables18′ in the casino-like assembly10′ are networked and connected to one ormore servers42′. Theserver42′ may be used to implement and facilitate, player tracking, ticket in ticket out (cashless) wagering, assigning player's to a seat at a particular table, tournament play, table set-up (including turning the tables on and off and modifying table parameters), and progressive jackpots. Each table18′ may have one or more EPIAs22′. In addition, other devices may be connected to theserver42′ for providing additional features and/or functions. For example, a queuing system may be provided (see below). This system may be implemented using a separate computer which implements this function. The separate computer may also implement other features or functions of the system. It should be noted, however, that in some systems, these additional features or function could be provided, at least in part, by the server(s)42′.
• In one aspect of the present invention, theserver42′ runs the games. In other words, theserver42′ electronically “shuffles” the playing cards, deals the cards, controls the players' turns, receives the player's inputs and acts accordingly, tracks, manages, and awards the pot, tracks the rake, etc. Game data is stored in a database. Each input, wager, play, etc. is stored in the database.
• For tournament poker play facilitated by the casino-like assembly10′, a predetermined number of head-to-head tables18′ are designated through theserver42′. A buy-in, e.g., $100 is required. Typically, after a player loses all of their money, they are eliminated from the tournament. Under predetermined rules, players may register for a tournament and be assigned to seats at the head-to-head tables18′. During play, under predetermined rules, tables may be broken down and the players distributed to other tables. Theassembly10′ facilitates the tournament by providing one or more of the following features:
• • a) Registration
  • b) Tracking tournament information
  • c) Display of tournament information on central display and/or remote display
  • d) Tournament set-up, e.g., buy-in
  • e) Re buy-in
  • f) Tournament jackpot, cash or entry voucher for entry another tournament (specific tournament or expiration date)
  • g) Process for breaking tables
    • (1) message that table is breaking
    • (2) convey new seat assignment
    • (3) determination of breaking order
    • (4) display of breaking order
  • h) Display information on status of other tables and players at other tables
  • i) System to monitor and adjust hands per hour of an individual table during a tournament: During a poker tournament it is important that each table play roughly the same number of hands per hour as all other tables. This can be accomplished by pausing a game and/or slowing a game down with out pausing.
  • j) Multi-site tournaments.
  • k) System for automatically paying players tournament winnings based on tournament pay tables and their final position in the tournament.
• Preferably, the tournament poker games will be played to completion and blinds will preferably double about every three to five hands to ensure that the game does not continue for an excessive amount of time. The games will progress through the tournament levels until a winner is determined.
• In one aspect ofassembly10′ the poker games are timed, i.e., the player's have a predetermined time period in which to complete each turn. For example, the player's have a set period of one minute to complete each turn. Alternatively, the period of time may vary based, e.g., the first turn may have a period of completion of one minute, while the second turn may have a shorter or longer period of completion. Alternatively, each player may have a bank of time. The time used to complete each turn may be deducted from their time bank.
• With regards to revenue collection by the casino,assembly10′ may collect revenue similar toassembly10. Yet further, each player may purchase virtual chips through previously established accounts, and the casino establishment may collect revenue through a “rake” method. The rake may be defined as a portion or percentage of each pot that goes to the house or casino establishment for running the poker game. The virtual pin pad orkeyboard66′ displayed discretely on thescreen52′ of eachEPIA22′,24′ may allow each player to access pre-funded accounts (seeFIG. 6).
• In another aspect of the present invention, a table18,18‘may have a plurality of EPIA’s22,22′ greater than 2, e.g., six, eight, or ten. The EPIA's22,22′ may be divided into sub-groups, where each group may be playing amongst themselves. For example, if there are ten players at a table, then the players may be divided into 5 groups of two players each playing head-to-head poker, 2 groups of five players each playing in a group of 5, or any combination of players. In one embodiment, where the EPIA's are divided into groups of two EPIA's22,22′ to each group, each pair of EPIA's22,22′ may operate as a single head-to-head table18,18′ as described above.
• While the forms of the invention herein disclosed constitute presently preferred embodiments many others are possible. It is not intended herein to mention all of the possible equivalent forms or ramifications of the invention. It is further understood that the terms used herein are merely descriptive rather than limiting, in that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims (66)

1. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head poker game to first and second players, the assembly comprising:

a housing;

a payment mechanism for initiating the poker game, and supported by the housing;

first and second electronic player interaction areas supported by the housing, and each interaction area having an electronic screen for the virtual display of playing cards and at least one mechanical actuator for play of the poker game by the respective first and second players;

a computer system coupled to the first and second electronic player interaction areas for dealing a hand of the electronic poker game composed of virtual cards, displaying computer dealt virtual cards on the screens and administering the electronic poker game using electronic chips and a virtual deck of poker playing cards, and for determining a winner from among the first player and the second player and awarding a pot to the winner at the end of the hand; and

wherein the electronic screen of the first electronic player interaction area is concealed from view by the housing from the second player when the second player is located at the second electronic player interaction area, and the electronic screen of the second electronic player interaction area is concealed from view by the housing and from first player when the first player is located at the first electronic player interaction area.

2. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein a monetary deposit received by the payment mechanism provides a predetermined number of hands of play.

3. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein a monetary deposit received by the payment mechanism provides a predetermined number of virtual chips.

4. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein a monetary deposit received by the payment mechanism provides a predetermined amount of time toward play.

5. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 further comprising a central display area supported by the housing and communicating with the computer system, and having an electronic screen for at least in-part the display of common virtual poker cards dealt by the computer system.

6. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein the at least one mechanical actuator has a trackball for the selection of a bet amount.

7. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 5 wherein the at least one mechanical actuator has a trackball for the selection of a bet amount displayed on the central display area.

8. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 further comprising a keyboard/PIN pad displayed on the screens of the first and second interaction areas for processing player accounts by the computer system.

9. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 8 further comprising:

a modem of the computer system in the housing; and

a server of the computer system communicating with the computer modem for verification of licensing and uploading of game data to the server.

10. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 9 wherein the modem is a cellular modem.

11. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 6 further comprising a keyboard/PIN pad displayed on the screens of the first and second interaction areas for input and processing of respective player accounts by the respective first and second players via actuation of the respective trackballs.

12. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein the at least one mechanical actuator has a fold button for folding a dealt hand.

13. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein the at least one mechanical actuator has a show-cards button for revealing dealt hole cards viewed on the screens of the respective first and second electronic player interaction areas to the respective first and second players.

14. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein the at least one mechanical actuator has a commit button for committing an amount of a bet.

15. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 7 wherein the at least one mechanical actuator has a commit button for committing an amount of a bet after selection by the trackball.

16. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 further comprising:

a trackball of the at least one mechanical actuator for the selection of a bet amount;

a fold button of the at least one mechanical actuator for folding a dealt hand;

a show-cards button of the at least one mechanical actuator for revealing dealt hole cards viewed on the screens of the respective first and second electronic player interaction areas to the respective first and second players; and

a commit button of the at least one mechanical actuator for committing an amount of a bet after selection by the trackball.

17. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 16 wherein the screens are not touch activated screens.

18. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein the screens are LCD screens.

19. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 wherein the assembly is self contained.

20. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 19 wherein the housing is a table having a translucent top surface with the screens disposed below the glass top.

21. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 20 wherein the screens are located at the bottom of respective wells defined in-part by the table and covered by the translucent top surface.

22. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 20 wherein the table is a sit-down cocktail table type.

23. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 20 wherein the table is a player stand-up type.

24. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 1 further comprising a bluff detector supported by the housing.

25. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 24 wherein the bluff detector is a two-contact heart rate monitor.

26. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 5 wherein each of the first and second electronic player interaction areas has a bluff detector that measures heart rate of the respective first and second players, and wherein measured results of the bluff detectors are displayed on the central display area.

27. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head electronic poker game to first and second players, comprising:

a table having a table top with a playing surface having first and second ends;

a first electronic player interaction area located at the first end of the table top;

a second electronic player interaction area located at the second end of the table top, the first and second electronic player interaction areas providing a player interface for interaction with the first and second players, respectively; and

a game computer coupled to the first and second electronic player interaction areas for administering at least one hand of the head-to-head electronic poker game using virtual cards, determining a winner for the at least one hand, and awarding a pot to the winner, each hand being composed of alternating turns between the first and second players.

28. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 further comprising at least one betting round with the game computer providing the first and second players an opportunity to make a wager or fold during the betting round.

29. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 wherein the game computer administers the electronic poker game using the virtual cards and virtual chips.

30. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 wherein the electronic poker game is a version of Hold'em Poker.

31. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 wherein the electronic poker game is a version of Omaha Poker.

32. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 wherein the game computer deals at least one hole card to each of the first and second players, and wherein each hand of the first and second players has at least one hole card and at least one common card.

33. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 32 further comprising a central display area orientated centrally upon the table top for displaying information to the first and second players, and wherein the game computer displays the common cards in the central display area.

34. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 wherein the game computer is integrated into the table.

35. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 wherein the game computer is located remotely from the table.

36. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 27 further comprising:

a dealer selectively chosen between the first and second players by the computer and for at least one hand of the poker game;

a big blind as designated by the computer and being the other of the first and second players not selected by the computer as the dealer.

37. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 36 further comprising a virtual pot illustrated in the central display area for virtual receipt of a big blind bet from the big blind and as controlled by the computer.

38. The electronic poker game assembly set forth inclaim 37 further comprising a little blind being the selected dealer and a little blind bet received from the little blind and deposited in the virtual pot as controlled by the computer.

39. A method of operation of an electronic head-to-head poker game assembly comprising the steps of:

a) positioning first and second players in front of respective first and second electronic player interaction areas of the assembly;

b) dealing of a virtual hand of virtual playing cards by a computer system of the assembly;

c) displaying at least one hole card face-down on respective electronic screens of the first and second electronic player interaction areas; and

d) displaying discretely the at least one hole card face-up by the computer system and in response to manual movement of a mechanical actuator of either the first or second electronic player interaction area by the respective first or second player.

40. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 wherein the mechanical actuator is a push button.

41. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 comprising the further step of establishing a wager amount by one of the first and second players through rotation of a trackball of the respective first and second electronic player interaction areas.

42. The method of operation set forth inclaim 41 comprising the further step of displaying the wager amount on a central display area by the computer system.

43. The method of operation set forth inclaim 42 comprising the further step of committing the wager amount through depression of a commit button by the respective first and second players.

44. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 comprising the further step of activating the poker game via insertion of credit into a payment mechanism of the assembly prior to step (a).

45. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 comprising the further steps of:

designating one of the first and second players as a dealer for a specific hand of the poker game by the computer system between steps (a) and (b); and

assigning the other of the first and second players by the computer system as the small blind.

46. The method of operation set forth inclaim 45 wherein the small blind places the initial wager.

47. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 comprising the further step of selectively measuring the heart rate of at least one of the first and second players by a bluff detector.

48. The method of operation set forth inclaim 47 comprising the further step of displaying the measured heart rate on a common display area.

49. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 wherein dealing of a virtual hand of poker includes the display of at least one virtual common card in a central display area.

50. The method of operation set forth inclaim 49 comprising the further steps of:

alternating turns between the first and second players; and,

determining a winner for the hand and awarding the winner a pot by the computer system.

51. The method of operation set forth inclaim 50 comprising the further step of conducting at least one betting round per hand and prior to the dealing of the at least one common card.

52. The method of operation set forth inclaim 51 comprising the further step of providing the first and second players an opportunity to make a wager or fold during the betting round.

53. The method of operation set forth inclaim 52 wherein the first or second player folds by depressing a push button.

54. The method of operation set forth inclaim 52 comprising the further step of determining a remaining one of the first and second players as the winner by the computer system.

55. The method of operation set forth inclaim 54 comprising the further step of uploading the game play history from a computer to a server of the computer system.

56. The method of operation set forth inclaim 55 comprising the further step of reviewing game history by any one of the first and second players over an internet connection with the server.

57. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 wherein virtual chips are administered by the computer system.

58. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 wherein the assembly controls an electronic poker game version of Omaha Poker.

59. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 comprising the further step of administering one or more betting rounds.

60. The method of operation set forth inclaim 59 wherein the step of administering one or more betting rounds includes the step of managing a pot of virtual chips.

61. The method of operation set forth inclaim 39 comprising the further step of purchasing of virtual chips by the players.

62. The method of operation set forth inclaim 44 comprising the further step of crediting a number of hands to the players by the computer system upon receipt of credit from the payment mechanism.

63. The method of operation set forth inclaim 44 comprising the further step of crediting a time duration of play to the players by the computer system upon receipt of credit from the payment mechanism.

64. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head poker game for only a first and a second player, the assembly comprising:

a housing;

only a first and a second electronic player interaction area supported by the housing, and each interaction area having an electronic screen for the virtual display of playing cards and at least one mechanical actuator for play of the poker game by the respective first and second players;

a computer system coupled to the first and second electronic player interaction areas for dealing a hand of the electronic poker game composed of virtual cards, displaying computer dealt virtual cards on the screens and administering the electronic poker game using electronic chips and a virtual deck of poker playing cards, and for determining a winner from the first and second players and awarding a pot to the winner at the end of the hand; and

wherein the electronic screen of the first electronic player interaction areas is concealed by the housing and from the view of the second player when orientated at the second electronic player interaction areas, and the electronic screen of the second electronic player interaction area is concealed by the housing and from the view of the first player when orientated at the first electronic player interaction area.

65. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head poker game for a plurality of players, the assembly comprising:

a housing;

a plurality of electronic player interaction areas supported by the housing, and each interaction area having an electronic screen for the virtual display of playing cards and a trackball for at least partial play of the poker game by the plurality of players;

a computer system coupled to the plurality of electronic player interaction areas for dealing a hand of the electronic poker game composed of virtual cards, displaying computer dealt virtual cards on the screens and administering the electronic poker game using electronic chips and a virtual deck of poker playing cards, and for determining a winner from the plurality of players and awarding a pot to the winner at the end of the hand; and

wherein the electronic screen of any one of the plurality of electronic player interaction areas is concealed by the housing and from the view of the players when orientated at the other ones of the plurality of electronic player interaction areas.

66. An electronic poker game assembly for providing a head-to-head poker game for a plurality of players, the assembly comprising:

a table having a table top;

a plurality of electronic player interaction areas supported by the table, and each interaction area having an electronic screen recessed beneath the table top and for the virtual display of playing cards, and at least one mechanical actuator for play of the poker game by the plurality of players; and

a computer system coupled to the plurality of electronic player interaction areas for dealing a hand of the electronic poker game composed of virtual cards, displaying computer dealt virtual cards on the recessed electronic screens and administering the electronic poker game using electronic chips and a virtual deck of poker playing cards, and for determining a winner from the plurality of players and awarding a pot to the winner at the end of the hand.

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