KR20090127919A - Secure transfer of online privileges including non-financial options - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of transferring online privileges, comprising: receiving a request for a payment including one or more non-financial items; debiting the one or more non-financial items from a second account; and crediting the one or more non-financial items to a first account, wherein the first account and the second account are accounts residing in a points server.

Description

Privilege Transfer Method, Online Privilege Transfer Method, Online Privilege Transfer System, and Computer-readable Storage Media {SECURE TRANSFER OF ONLINE PRIVILEGES INCLUDING NON-FINANCIAL OPTIONS}

Online auctions of real world items on the Internet have become commonplace over the last decade. While many people can offer the items to sell to a very large pool of potential buyers accessible via the Internet, others can buy many types of items from so many potential sellers. Most of the items sold may be sold at live auctions, stores, yard sales, and the like. However, as the popularity of online auctions increases, buyers and sellers sometimes try to sell unusual items.

Another rapidly growing activity is online games via the Internet. Some online games are role-playing games (RPGs) (sometimes called massively multiplayer online games, or MMORPGs) for a very large number of players. These include, for example, Everquest ™ games from Sony Online Entertainment Inc., where the player controls the game persona or game character. During the game, the character may acquire various game items, such as money, weapons, and equipment. These game items are represented as data stored for the game and are not actual physics items (different from data). When a character has a game item in the game, the game represents a relationship through manipulation of data in the game, and the character has access to certain privileges associated with that item (eg, can use an object or use a weapon). Or spend money). Some game items are very rare or difficult to obtain in the game, requiring a high level of skill or effort to acquire them. This type of game item may be something that game players want to have. Characters in the game can obtain game items from each other by trading game items (eg, paying game money to purchase game weapons), and thus have access to the privileges of the new game item. The game system controls the data representing the characters and items, and thus the game controls the transfer of game items in the game.

In the new relationship between these two areas, some players of online games attempt to sell game items for real money using online auctions, similar to selling ordinary physics items. In this way, the player can obtain the game item without having to acquire it in the normal game course. Typically, these independent "sales" are not authorized or supported by the game provider, so players experience problems when attempting to perform these illegal transactions. For example, because a player does not own an online item, he does not have complete control over his or her disposal and therefore has difficulty in establishing a reliable or secure transfer.

It can also be difficult to make a safe exchange of real money for game items. Since a player typically does not have control over the data in the game, online auctions likewise have no control over the game item data. In addition, the player may agree on the transfer, but the ignorant player may try to deceive by not performing. Thus, it may be difficult to ensure that the buyer (or his game character) actually receives the game item in the game and the seller actually receives real-world rewards for it.

Summary of the Invention

Implementations of the present invention provide for the transfer of online privileges using payments that include non-financial items transferred from a first user account to a second user account.

In one implementation, the method includes selecting a game item in an online game provided by a game server, wherein the game item is represented by item data stored in a game database connected to the game server, the item data being a first item. Associated with a user account, the item data having associated privileges in the online game; retrieving the item data from the game database; transmitting the auction item data and the first user identifier to an auction server; The auction item data corresponds to the item data and the first user identifier corresponds to the first user account; disabling the item data stored in the game database such that the privilege is not available in the online game; The transmitted day Storing a site in an auction database connected to the auction server, providing an auction for the game item at the auction server, accepting one or more bids for the game item at the auction server, received Determining a successful bid for the game item among bids, wherein the successful bid represents a second user identifier and the second user identifier corresponds to a second user account at the game server; 2 transferring one or more non-financial items from the account indicated by the user identifier to the account indicated by the first user identifier, updating the item data stored in the game database such that the item data is associated with the second user account; And the privilege is available to the online game. So as to include the step of enabling the item data stored in the game database.

In another implementation, a method of transferring online privileges may include receiving a request for payment that includes one or more non-financial items, debiting the one or more non-financial items from a second account, and removing the one or more non-financial items. And representing the first account, wherein the first account and the second account exist in the point server.

In another implementation, a system for transferring online privileges includes a game server having a network connection and storing data for providing online games and game environments, data connected to the game server to represent one or more game items, a first user game. A game database storing data representing an account and data representing a second user game account, the game item being associated with the first user game account, having a network connection and accessing the game server via this network connection An auction server for storing data providing online auctions for game items, data representing one or more game items received from the game server, data representing a first user auction account, and 2 stores data representing user auction accounts A point server having an auction database, a network connection and connected to said auction server via this network connection to store data providing online payment service for said one or more game items, and a first user connected to said point server. A point database for storing data representing a point account and data representing a second user point account, wherein the first and second user point accounts are used to store one or more non-financial items.

In another implementation, a system for transferring online privileges includes a network interface that provides a network connection, receives a request for one or more non-financial payment transactions over the network connection, and sends one or more notifications over the network connection, the one The one or more non-financial payment transactions, including a point database for storing data used in the one or more non-financial payment transactions, and maintaining at least two point accounts, and transferring at least one non-financial item from the second point account to the first point account. It includes a transaction control to facilitate.

1 illustrates one implementation of a system for transferring privileges.

2A is a functional block diagram of one implementation of a game server and an auction server.

2B is a functional block diagram of one implementation of a point server.

3A and 3B are flow diagrams of an implementation of transferring a privilege by performing an auction on a privileged game item.

4 illustrates another implementation of a system for transferring privileges including a point server.

5 is a flow diagram of one implementation for confirming payment.

The present invention provides for the transfer of privileges in one computer system based on a transaction involving a second computer system. In one implementation, the online game system transfers the privileges for the game item from the first character to the second character based on the online auction and payment of money from the buyer to the seller. In another implementation, techniques for supporting the transfer of items or privileges using financial and / or non-financial exchanges are disclosed. For example, a coalition of online service providers may collaborate to support the transfer of the use of an item or character between two players in an online game, in exchange for the transfer of other online items, such as points stored on a point server, via an auction mechanism. do.

Features provided in these implementations also include secure payment of online items, exchange of online items, auction of online items, payment transactions by non-financial items, and financial payments, non-financial payments, physical items, And use of a combination of online items, but is not limited to these.

Illustrative examples describing one implementation are provided below. This example is not exhaustive and additional implementations, examples, and variations will be described later.

In one example, an online service company has established an auction system for the secure transfer of online privileges. The auction system facilitates receiving money (eg, US dollars) and transferring online privileges.

The online company also built an online game system. Players in the game control game items such as characters, objects, money, or places. The player does not own the data representing the item or owns any rights to the data or items. The online company allows players to use items in the game as part of the game services provided through the game system. The player can put one of these items in the game into the auction system for sale. The player can't actually sell the item (the item doesn't exist) and can't sell the data or any rights (the player doesn't have any ownership), so the player on the online side can't sell the item to that item in the online game. Sell and use privileges (as determined by the online company). The online company destroys the privilege from the seller and adds the privilege to the buyer's account so that the buyer of the item obtains the privilege in the game. For example, the player has won 100 gold coins in the game. The player may sell the coin to another player in the auction system. After this transaction, the selling player loses the right to use the coin and the buying player can then use the coin in the game.

In one example of the operation and interaction of these systems, the game system includes one or more game servers with an Internet connection. The game server operates to provide a game environment to users who log in to the system via the Internet. The game server is connected to one or more databases that store user information and data representing game assets, including data about items for which players can obtain online privileges. The auction system includes a server with internet access. The auction system operates to provide an auction service to users logged in to the system. The auction system also includes one or more databases for storing data representing user information and game assets. The user information includes financial information of the user for completing the transfer of money, such as account information in a financial service (eg, credit card or PayPal ™). The auction system communicates with the game system via a network, such as through a secure connection established through the Internet.

To transfer privileges, a user logged into the game system selects an item in the game and indicates that the item will be auctioned through the auction system. The game system sends a full copy of the data for the selected item to the auction system for storage in the auction system's database. The auction system creates an auction profile for the item, including information associated with the item and the auction user. The game system deletes data for the item from the database of the game system, including the user's privileges for that item in the game. The game system sends a message (eg, an email) to the user to inform the user that the item is ready for auction in the auction system.

The user logs in to the auction system and accesses the auction profile for the item to be transferred. The user sets the desired auction parameters, such as the duration of the auction, the starting price, the lowest bid price (the minimum allowable price to complete the transfer), and the immediate purchase price (higher than the lowest bid price, the price immediately ending the auction). The user checks the user's financial account information and how the user would like to receive payment. If the user is satisfied with the auction setup, the user confirms that the auction starts. A listing fee is charged to the user for placing the item in the bid. If the user is charged an auction registration fee, the user then confirms the charge.

When the auction starts, the auction system initiates the auction process, allowing users logged in to the system to bid and review the item. Users of the auction system can log in to browse or search for items in the auction. The user can review the information about the item sent from the game system and place a bid through the auction system. When the bidding user bids, the auction system verifies that the financial information of the bidding user is valid. The auction system also checks with the game system whether the bidding user has a valid account to receive items in the game system. After verifying the bid, the auction system accepts and records the bid. Other users may then make additional bids. The auction ends when the term expires or a bid is received that immediately matches the purchase price.

When the auction ends, the auction system determines whether the highest bid received satisfies the lowest bid price (immediately, if the purchase price is above the minimum bid price, if set). If the highest bid received is at or above the minimum bid price, the auction is successful and the winning user receives the privilege to use the purchased privilege of the auction item in the game. The auction system completes a financial transfer from the purchaser's account to the auction user's account. As soon as the auction system confirms that the financial transaction has been completed or approved, the auction system sends a copy of the data for the item back to the game system, along with information indicating the purchase user, such as game ID information of the purchase user. The game system restores the item in the game environment and updates the user information of the purchase-side user. The game system sends a notification message to the selling side user and the buying side user. When the selling user logs in to the game system again, the selling user cannot use the item. When the purchaser user logs in to the game system again, the purchaser user can use the item.

If the highest bid received is lower than the lowest bid price, the auction is not successful and the user who auctioned the item retains the privileged use of the auction item in the game. The user can request a new auction and resume the setup process. If the user decides not to request a new auction, the auction system sends a copy of the data for the item back to the game system, along with information indicating the auction user. The game system restores the item in the game environment and updates the user information of the auction side user. The game system sends an email confirmation notification to the user. When the auction user logs in to the game system again, the auction user can use the item.

In this example, the online company facilitates the transfer of privileges on game items between users. Users are confident that there will be a transfer and what the item in question is for. The online company improves the gaming experience of his users and improves his business.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates one implementation of a system for transferring privileges. The game server 1100 is connected to the auction server 2100 through the network 1300. Seller client 1400 and buyer client 1500 are also connected to network 1300.

Game server 1100 is a network server system that includes computer hardware and software that supports the operation and storage of online game environments and game play, such as those used to support MMORPGs. The game server 1100 supports one or more online games and provides an interface to each game to clients connected to the game server 1100 via the network 1300. The game server 1100 stores data representing a game environment and a game item, and data about a user account. The player of the game has a corresponding user account (or multiple accounts) stored on the game server 1100.

Auction server 1200 is a network server system that includes computer hardware and software that supports the operation and storage of online auction services, such as those used to support online auctions. The auction server 1200 supports auctions of buyers and sellers and provides an interface to the auction to clients connected to the auction server 1200 via the network 1300. The auction server 1200 stores data representing auctions and items being auctioned, and data for user accounts. The buyer or seller has a corresponding user account (or multiple accounts) stored at auction server 1200.

The network 1300 is a computer network, such as the Internet, that provides a direct and / or indirect network connection between devices connected to the network 1300. In other implementations, other or additional networks may be used, such as a telephone network or a private network.

Merchant client 1400 is a computer system such as a desktop or laptop computer, or a game console. Merchant client 1400 stores and executes client software to interact with game server 1100 and auction server 1200. The game client software supports playing the online game provided by game server 1100. The auction client software supports requesting and participating in an online auction provided by the auction server 1200. In one implementation, game client software and auction client software are integrated into one application program or application suite. Buyer client 1500 is a computer system similar to seller client 1400. In another implementation, one (or both) of these clients is a portable device (eg, a limited version of regular game client software that is intended to access some of the game functions) (eg, both). For example, a PDA or a handheld gaming device) or other type of computer system such as a mobile phone. In one such implementation, game servers and auction servers provide different levels of access to different types of client systems.

The configuration and relationships of game servers and auction servers are flexible and can vary in different implementations. In one implementation, the game server and auction server are part of the same system or share certain components (eg, shared storage, but with separate network interfaces). In one such implementation, the game server runs an auction for players in the game, and the auction server provides an interface to the auction for users outside the game. In other implementations, game servers and auction servers are run by different companies. In one such implementation, one company runs a game server and an auction server, and another company runs another game server for another game. In this situation, the auction server may support auctions for game items from either game.

2A shows a block diagram of one implementation of game server 2100 and auction server 2200. The game server 2100 is a network computer system and includes a game database 2110, a game control system 2120, and a network interface 2130. Alternatively, the game database may be external. The auction server 2200 is a network computer system and includes an auction database 2210, an auction control system 2220, and a network interface 2230. Alternatively, the auction database may be external. In other implementations, either server or both servers include multiple server systems (eg, to distribute processing and storage for load balancing). Both servers 2100 and 2200 include additional hardware and software (eg, power and user interfaces) that represent a computer server system, but for simplicity these components are not specifically shown in FIG. 2A. . In another implementation, servers share components (eg, use a public database).

In game server 2100, game database 2110 is a storage system (eg, a RAID system) such as one or more hard drives. The game database 2110 stores data used in online games (or multiple games). Some of the data represents game items 2112 (characters, objects, places, etc.) that are assets available as part of the game. A game item has one or more privileges, and the data for the game item represents a privilege associated with that game item. An item's privileges are the functions or actions that are allowed by owning that item. For example, a weapon game item has a defined characteristic (eg, the amount of damage dealt). Coins or money game items have some value in the game economy and can be consumed or traded (e.g., 100 coins can buy a piece of bread), but their value can fluctuate. The data for the character game item indicates which other game item the character in the game owns (e.g., what equipment the character has). When a character has a game item in the game, that character can access the privileges associated with that game item (perhaps affected by other game conditions). In other implementations, game items include abstract items such as membership, membership levels, titles, or names. In other implementations, game items have some of the features or privileges that can be divided (eg, rooms in a home). The data for the game item also includes an identifier for the item. In one implementation, the data for the game item includes a key or digital signature to verify that the data is from the game server (eg, when the data for the game item went to the auction server).

Game items may be acquired or traded by characters within the game. Alternatively, players outside the game environment can use the game server to trade items (eg, in a defined player interface for player-to-player interaction). In one implementation, users do not own a game item, but only have a limited right to use the game item in accordance with a license agreement (which may or may not include other rules) published by the owner of the online game. In other implementations, users may own some or all of the game items.

Some data may also be video and audio data providing game items 2112 and game locations (some of which may be game items) and data used to implement the game (eg, status information and physics information). The game environment 2114 of FIG. Certain data may include identifiers, names, security information, billing information, financial account information (e.g., online money transfers such as banking, credit cards, PayPal ™, etc.) and user game accounts 2116 for users registered with the game server 2100. ), And game item 2112 associated with game account 2116.

The game control system 2120 controls the operation of the online game supported by the game server 2100. In one implementation, game control system 2120 is integrated into a general control system (not shown in FIG. 2A) of game server 2100 that controls the operation of game server 2100. The game control system 2120 includes hardware and software for storing and executing game software for providing an online game. Control system 2120 accesses and modifies data stored in game database 2110 while executing game software.

The network interface 2130 in the game server 2100 may connect the game server 2100 to other servers (eg, auction server 2200 or financial server) and clients (eg, a client system that plays an online game). Provide one or more connections to a network (e.g., the Internet).

In the auction server 2200, the auction database 2210 is a storage system (eg, a RAID system) such as one or more hard drives. The auction database 2210 stores data used in online auctions (or multiple auctions). Portions of this data represent auction items 2212 and game items 2112 from game server 2100 offered for sale at auctions such as physics objects or services. Some data may be stored in a user's auction account (such as identifiers, names, security information, billing information, financial account information (e.g., online money transfers such as banking, credit cards, PayPal ™, etc.) registered with the auction server 2200). 2214, and auction item 2212 associated with the auction account 2214.

The auction control system 2220 controls the operation of the online auction supported by the auction server 2200. In one implementation, the auction control system 2220 is integrated into the general control system of the auction server 2220 (not shown in FIG. 2A) that controls the operation of the auction server 2200. The auction control system 2220 includes hardware and software for storing and executing auction software for providing an online auction. Control system 2220 accesses and modifies data stored in auction database 2210 during execution of the auction software.

The network interface 2230 in the auction server 2200 uses the auction server 2200 as another server (e.g., game server 2100 or financial server) and clients (e.g., look at or participate in an auction). Provide one or more connections to a network (eg, the Internet) to connect to a client system).

The game server 2100 and the auction server 2200 communicate by exchanging data through their network interfaces 2130 and 2230. As described below, during the auction of a game item, data for the game item and data for the game account associated with the game item are transferred between the two servers 2100, 2200, as indicated by the dotted lines in FIG. 2A. Up and down

3A and 3B show a flow diagram of one implementation of transferring that privilege by performing an auction of a privileged game item. In Figures 3A and 3B, various actions and events are represented by labeled blocks, as described below. In addition, these blocks are arranged in rows to reflect which party is taking the action. Initially, the game server is providing an online game and storing data representing various game items and the privileges associated with the game items. Game users can use game client software to connect to and interact with game servers via the Internet. A first user (“seller”) is running game client software on a computer system and has established a network connection between the computer system and the game server. The seller has a game account on the game server and is playing online games using that account. A game account is associated with a number of game items (eg, a character controlled by a seller and a game item owned by that character in the game). The seller has decided to auction one of the seller's game items through the auction server. The auction server provides an online auction service through a website. Auction users may access and interact with the auction server via a network, such as through a web using a web browser. In another implementation, the game server provides an auction interface within or outside the game that is accessible through game client software. The game server auction interface also allows auctions through a web browser (eg, to allow players and non-players in the game to participate in the auction, or to allow the player to be outside the game while viewing the auction but not bidding). Access to other network software).

The seller selects the game item via the seller's computer system (block 3010) and requests an auction for the selected game item (block 3020). The game server selects the displayed item and verifies that the game item is associated with the seller's game account. The game server does not allow the seller to auction a game item that is not associated with the seller's game account and rejects this request. The seller makes the selection and request from within the game (i.e. while playing the game), such as by entering the auction house in the game and presenting the item to the auctioneer. Alternatively, the seller may use an auction interface (eg, similar to a login interface) provided by a game server running outside of the game, or indirectly through an interface provided by the auction server. In another implementation, the seller may select a portion of the privilege or partial use of the game item as the subject of the auction. For example, a seller may choose to rent a room in a house or auction a weapon for a month.

After confirming the auction request, the game server negotiates auction parameters with the seller (block 3030). Auction parameters such as auction type, starting price, minimum bid price, and time limit indicate how the auction should be performed. When the seller confirms the auction parameters, the game server provides the auction parameters to the auction server, and the auction server begins to send the auction (block 3040). The auction server checks if the seller has an account on the auction server (or creates one if not) and associates the auction with that account. The auction server creates a notice about the auction so that users of the auction server can know.

The game server then retrieves or accesses data for the game item and disables the selected game item (block 3050). When a seller places an item at an auction, the seller can no longer access the item's privileges, unless the auction fails. In one implementation, the game item is removed from the game (destroyed), and data about the game item is stored in a separate location (or no longer associated with the seller's character or user account, and if the auction fails) The game server maintains information indicating which seller the game item is from, so that the item can be returned. In other implementations, the game item is disabled such that it can no longer be used in the game (eg, using a flag or list), but the item is not removed from the game.

The game server sends a copy of the data for the game item to the auction server (block 3060), and the auction server receives and stores the data (block 3070). The game server sends along with the data about the game item an identifier that identifies the seller's auction account (or identifies the seller to the auction server so that the auction server finds the seller's auction account). In one implementation, the game server passes the data to the auction server using a secure connection. In another implementation, the game server encrypts some or all of the game item data using the key before transmitting the game item data (eg, to prevent the data from being changed while outside the game server). In another implementation, the game server sends only a portion of the data for the game item to the auction server, or a reference (eg, a pointer or index) to the data stored on the game server (the game server and the auction server share the storage device). When convenient). The auction server associates data for game items with previously received auction information. In another implementation, the game server sends the auction parameters and information to the auction server, along with data about the game item, without sending it separately.

The auction server opens and provides an auction according to the received parameter (3080). If a specific opening time is requested, the auction is open at that time. The auction server has additional parameters set by the auction server about how to operate the auction (e.g., minimum bid increase, how to end the auction, extension of the auction time limit when receiving a bid at the end of the time limit). Can have The auction server sends a notification to the seller that the auction is currently open (block 3090). In one implementation, the auction server sends an email message to the seller. In other implementations, other or additional notification modes may be used, such as instant messaging, in-game messages from game servers, pop-up dialogs, and the like.

The auction server begins to proceed with the auction according to the auction parameters (block 3100). The auction server provides information to the user who is viewing the auction and reviews and accepts the bid when the bid is offered. In one implementation, the auction server requires confirmation of available funds before accepting bids.

The second user (“buyer”) opens a connection to the auction server and selects the game item from the auction (block 3110). The buyer is running a web browser on the computer system and has established a network connection between the computer system and the auction server. The buyer has an auction account on the auction server and is interested in purchasing the selected item. The buyer also has a game account on the game server (if the buyer does not have a game account and does not create a game account, the auction server maintains data about the game item in the buyer's auction account, and the buyer later May be re-auctioned to other players in the game, etc.). The buyer bids, and the auction server receives the bid and determines it as a winning bid for the game item (block 3120). The auction server acknowledges the winning bid and ends the auction (block 3130). The auction server determines whether the buyer's bid is a winning bid based on auction parameters (e.g., whether the buyer's bid was submitted before the auction was closed, whether the bid was above the set minimum bid price, and whether the bid was the highest bid made during the auction). Determine. The auction server notifies the seller that the auction has ended (block 3140). In one implementation, the auction server also informs the seller of the identity of the buyer. The auction server notifies the seller that the auction has ended and that the buyer has been successful (block 3150).

After the auction ends, the auction server confirms the payment from the buyer to the seller (block 3160). In one implementation, the auction server facilitates the transfer of funds (eg, US dollars) from the buyer to the seller (eg, by providing that information to an online money transfer system such as PayPal ™). In another implementation, the auction server makes transfers or direct payments of funds using an auction account that stores financial information (such as credit cards and banking information). In another implementation, the auction server may represent and debit the balances of the seller and buyer's auction accounts, or provide the information to the game server so that the game server may debit and represent the balances of the seller and buyer's game accounts. For the use of online games or for additional services provided by the game server, such as enhanced privileges or storage). In other implementations, this payment is made in game currency for the game provided by the game server, so that the game server confirms the "payment" (eg, the game server is responsible for out-of-game auction sites or in-game economy). Function as a second interface to the auction, or the player may receive real money and sell the game item to the operator of the game server). In another implementation, the auction server deducts a service fee from the payment and maintains that fee.

If the payment is confirmed, the auction server notifies the seller that the auction was successful and the payment was confirmed (block 3170), notifies the buyer (block 3180), and notifies the game server (3190). Seller receives the agreed upon amount from Buyer through an appropriate mechanism (as described above). The auction server sends the buyer's identifier back to the game server with confirmation that which auction was successful. The auction server also sends an identifier to the game server identifying the buyer's game account (or identifying the buyer to the game server so that the game server finds the buyer's auction account). In another implementation, the auction server determines whether the buyer is allowed to receive game items before confirming that the auction was successful (e.g., the buyer does not have a game account, or that the buyer may have a new character game item). Check with the game server to see if it exceeds the number of characters it can.

If the payment is not confirmed (eg, lack of funds), the auction server determines that the auction has failed and notifies the seller, buyer, and the game server that the auction has failed and no payment will occur. In this case, the game server returns the game item to the seller in the game, or gives the seller the option to place a new auction. In one implementation, the auction server sends data for the game item back to the game server, and the game server confirms that the data has not changed (eg, by checking a key or signature or decrypting the data).

When the game server receives confirmation from the auction server that the auction was successful, the game server transfers the game item from the seller's game account to the buyer's game account (block 3200). The game server updates the data for the game item to reflect the transfer to the new account (if that information is also stored with the item data). The game server notifies the seller of the item transfer (block 3210) and notifies the buyer (3220). The game server moves the data for the auction game item (or moves the appropriate identifier or reference) to the buyer's game account. The game server enables the game item for the buyer (block 3230) and notifies the buyer that the item is enabled and ready for use in the game (block 3240). The game server enables the game item by reversing the above disabling process (eg, by adjusting the enable / disable flag). When the buyer returns to the game, the buyer can use the game item and its privileges in the game (block 3250). The buyer can select a new game item and specify how to use the item (eg, which character will use the equipment item).

The sequence shown in Figures 3A and 3B is an example of this process. In other implementations, other sequences may be used, such as completing a financial transaction after transferring game item data, or canceling the transfer of game data from one game account to another if payment fails later. . In another example, separate notifications in FIGS. 3A and 3B may be combined.

In another implementation, the auction server provides a recommendation service or "wish list" to the player. The player registers with the recommendation service and displays one or more preferences. This preference refers to the type of game and game item (or specific game item) the player wishes to acquire in the game. The auction server periodically checks whether an auction is open or open for game items that match the provided preferences. In another implementation, the auction server maintains a list of items in the auction and periodically checks the list. Alternatively, when a new item is placed at the auction, the auction server checks the preferences of the players registered with the recommendation service. In another implementation, the auction server automatically generates preferences for registered players (or all players) based on game items associated with the player's account (eg, by querying the game server for player information). For example, if a player has a certain type of character in the game and that character can only use some type of equipment, the auction server may have more (game attributes) than the character is available and the character already has. You can create preferences to recommend powerful auction items. In another implementation, the game server provides a recommendation service instead of (or in addition to, or in conjunction with, an auction server). For example, the game server periodically polls the auction server for a match based on the preferences received at the game server.

In one implementation of the system described above, the system receives money (e.g., US dollars) and online items such as game items (e.g. equipment or game currency) or characters or privileges (e.g. guild membership). Use a model of transfer based on the lawful exchange of licenses. In another implementation, this model receives non-financial items, including other online items, such as game money, and exchanges the license of the online items.

In one example of a non-financial exchange model, a buyer pays for an auction item using "points" stored in an account on a third party online service (eg, using a client or server digital wallet model). Do it. The label "point" is used in this example, but any name such as "doubloon" or "apple" can be used. In this type of system, any type of countable online item or resource is used for the exchange.

In one implementation, the operation of the game server and auction server is similar to the financial model. An online game company provides an online game server that controls the use of online items in a game. When a player requests an auction of a game item, the game server establishes a connection with the auction server and entitles the use of the game item to an online auction.

In this example, instead of confirming and accepting payments from a financial server (eg, a bank, credit card service or web-based financial account service), the auction server interacts with the point server. The point server, similar to a financial server, maintains a user's point account. For example, points may be earned by purchase using real money or through promotions or online activities. The point server also supports the transfer of points to other servers that accept transfers or deeds of points between accounts or to other servers that can be redeemed through the use of other servers, similar to bank checks. The point server may also process point transactions similar to the way that a financial server handles monetary transactions, for example by using similar security solutions. The point server may use an alternative method, for example due to regulatory issues.

Thus, in one implementation, when a user wins a bid and "purchases" an online item, the seller's point account at the point server is debited by the number of points the buyer bids, and the merchant's point account is debited by the same amount. . When the point transfer is confirmed, the game server receives the confirmation and begins to transfer the use of the game item from the seller to the buyer through the update of the game data and the user account.

4 illustrates another implementation of a system 4000 for transferring privileges including a point server. Similar to the implementation shown in FIG. 1, game server 4100 is connected to auction server 4200 via network 4300, and point server 4600 is connected to game server 4100 via network 4300. And auction server 4200. Seller client 4400 and buyer client 4500 are also connected to network 4300. The game server 4100, the auction server 4200, the network 4300, the seller client 4400, and the buyer client 4500 are described with reference to FIG. 1, the game server 1100, the auction server 1200, and the network ( 1300, seller client 1400, and buyer client 1500.

The point server 4600 may be used to operate online services, such as those used to support online transactions involving non-financial items such as points, game characters, game equipment items, online privileges, online certificates, and representations of physical items. A network server system including computer hardware and hardware for supporting storage. The point server 4600 supports transactions involving buyers and sellers, and provides an interface for accessing the auction server 4200 through the network 4300. In one implementation, point server 4600 stores data representing the account balance of the non-financial item. In another implementation, point server 4600 additionally stores data representing financial balances. The buyer or seller has at least one corresponding user account stored in point server 4600. In one implementation, the point server 4600 includes an interface that provides the user with information about the user's account, including preference information, account balances, payment transaction history, and payment transaction status.

As shown in FIG. 4, game server 4100, auction server 4200 and point server 4600 are shown as separate components that may be owned and operated separately. In other implementations, other combinations may also be used. For example, any two or all of game server 4100, auction server 4200, and point server 4600 may be co-owned and configured as a system, each depending on the transaction being processed. Provide separate interfaces. In one such implementation, point server 4600 and game server 4100 have the same points that can be obtained at game server 4100, such as through game play or online participation in an event or activity, such as game server 4100. And interact with the point server 4600 hosted on the system. For example, the acquired points may be represented in the user's account on the point server 4600. In another implementation, auction server 4200 and game server 4100 are hosted on one system. In another example, auction server 4200 and point server 4600 are hosted on one system. It will be appreciated that each configuration can provide certain advantages, depending on the requirements. For example, it may be beneficial to place auction server 4200 and point server 4600 in the same location to expedite a sales transaction. Alternatively, it may be necessary to operate the point server 4600 separately, because the entity other than the owner of the auction server 4200 owns the point server 4600.

In another example, point server 4600 supports receiving real money (eg, US dollars) and exchanging points, either directly or through another financial service provider (not shown). As such, an auction may be conducted to earn points, which may then be purchased or sold for real money.

In one implementation, points are awarded for payment of a subscription fee to a point server or other affiliate service. For example, points may be earned for using a "point credit card" where points are awarded to a user based on purchase, similar to a flight commercial passenger mileage card. Points may be awarded to account holders for online activities, such as performance in online games. In this example, an online game may be provided by the game server 4100.

In one implementation, point server 4600 facilitates the transfer of an exchange (eg, game points) from buyer to seller. In another implementation, the point server 4600 uses a point account to store financial information, such as credit card and banking information, to facilitate transfer or direct payment of funds. In another implementation, the point server 4600 may represent and debit the balances of the merchant and buyer's point accounts, or the game server 4100 or auction server 4200 to represent and debit the balances of the merchant and buyer's point accounts. Provide information (e.g., for the use of online games or for charges for additional services provided by the game server, such as enhanced privileges or storage). In another implementation, payment is facilitated using game currency for the game provided by game server 4200, and game server 4200 confirms "payment" (eg, point server 4600 Serve as an out-of-game facilitator or a second interface to the in-game economy. In another implementation, point server 4600 deducts a service fee from the payment and maintains that fee.

2B shows a functional block diagram of an implementation of a point server 2300. In point server 2300, point database 2310 is a storage system (eg, a RAID system), including, for example, one or more hard drives. The point database 2310 stores data used for one or more online non-financial payment transactions. Certain information such as identifiers, names, security information, billing information, financial account information (e.g., online fund transfers such as banking, credit cards, PayPal ™, etc.) and non-financial account information (e.g. point balances and online item inventory) The data represents a user point account 2314 registered with the point server 2300.

The transaction control module 2320 controls the operation of the online transaction supported by the point server 2300. In one implementation, transaction control module 2320 is integrated into a generic control system (not shown in FIG. 2B) that controls point server 2300. The transaction control module 2320 includes hardware and software for storing and executing transaction software for providing online non-financial and financial transactions processed by the point server 2300. The transaction control module 2320 may access and modify data stored in the point database 2310 while executing the transaction software.

The above examples describe a point server 2300 that is generally used for certain non-financial exchanges. In addition, trading on other online items may be performed similarly to barter. For example, in one such configuration, characters of the game may be exchanged for equipment items from other games. Alternatively, game items may be exchanged for online privileges, such as access to limited online resources (eg, music, video, and other types of content) for a period of time. These online items may be held in an account with points in point server 2300. Alternatively, the items may be held in separate accounts (on the same server or on another server) and may be used separately or in conjunction with points.

In another example, a non-financial item includes an online deed or a representation of a physical item, such as a book, apparel item, or any type of item. In this case, the physical item corresponding to the certificate is sent to or collected by the other party after the transaction is completed. Alternatively or in addition, an escrow or a third party holding solution may be used to help stabilize the transaction.

In another implementation, point server 2300 supports a combination of payment methods, including money, online items, and physical items. Additional variations and implementations are possible. For example, in such an implementation, the online item may be a music or video resource that will be auctioned or used for exchange (as a "payment"). In another implementation, the transfer is based on the direct dealing mechanism rather than the auction or bidding process.

As shown in Figure 3B, after the auction ends, the auction server confirms the payment from the buyer to the seller (block 3160).

5 shows a flowchart 5000 of one implementation of a transaction confirming payment at a point server. At block 5100, a payment request is received. A payment request is typically received from an auction server, but may also be received from a game server, from another network server, or from one or more client devices involved in the auction of an item for which payment is requested.

The payment request usually rewards the seller in the form of a payment. As such, this request is used to debit non-financial items, such as a certain number of points, from an account belonging to the buyer.

Alternatively or in addition, the payment request may reward the seller in the form of a barter. In one implementation, a non-financial item is an online game item, game character, or equipment item from another game, and any of these is "debited" from the buyer's account by removing (ie, deleting) to exchange with the seller. Non-financial items may also be online privileges, such as access to limited online resources (eg, music, video, and other types of content) for a period of time. Similarly, eligibility for online privileges is "debited" from the buyer's account and "credited" to the seller's account.

As noted above with respect to FIG. 4, the payment request may also involve a financial exchange. In one implementation, communication is made with a separate financial server to facilitate financial exchanges. For example, a financial exchange may be made to earn points, game items or online privileges.

The buyer's account is verified (block 5200). Verifying the account includes verifying account information, such as identifier, name, security information, billing information, financial account information, and non-financial account information, as described above with respect to FIG. 2B. If the account is determined not to be verified (block 5300), a notification may be sent indicating that the status of the payment transaction is verification failed (block 5800). If the account is determined to be verified (block 5300), the account balance (s) is verified (block 5400).

In one implementation, this verification is performed to ensure that the buyer has enough balance to complete the exchange with the seller. If it is determined that the account balance is insufficient (block 5500), a notification may be sent (block 5800) indicating that the status of the payment transaction is insufficient. If it is determined that the account balance is sufficient, the buyer's account is debited (block 5600) and the seller's account is represented accordingly (block 5700). A notification regarding the payment transaction status may be sent, including an indication that the payment transaction has been completed (block 5800). A notification may be sent to either or both of the buyer and the seller (block 5800). A notification may be sent to the auction server and / or game server to be relayed to either or both of the buyer and the seller (block 5800).

Various implementations of the invention are realized in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of these techniques. Some implementations include one or more computer programs executed by a programmable processor or computer. For example, referring to FIG. 4, game server 4100, auction server 4200, and point server 4600 each include one or more programmable processors. In general, each computer includes one or more processors, one or more data-storage components (e.g., volatile or nonvolatile memory modules, and persistent optical and hardware such as hard and floppy disk drives, CD-ROM drives, and magnetic tape drives). Magnetic storage devices), one or more input devices (eg, mice and keyboards), and one or more output devices (eg, display consoles and printers).

A computer program usually includes executable code that is stored on a persistent storage medium and then copied into memory at runtime. The processor executes the code by retrieving program instructions from memory in a predetermined order. When executing program code, a computer receives data from input and / or storage devices, performs operations on that data, and then delivers the resulting data to output and / or storage devices.

Various exemplary implementations of the invention are described. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional implementations are possible and within the scope of the present invention. For example, while the above description focuses on implementations that trade non-financial exchanges of game items, transactions that transfer shopping privileges or privileges associated with other types of data, such as access to audio or video data, may also be used. . Similarly, these transactions may be provided as in-game or out-of-game services or as a combination thereof. Alternative system configurations may also be used, such as those based on distributed processing and / or storage systems.

As such, the invention is not limited to the implementations described above.

Claims (24)

As a way of transferring privileges, Selecting a game item in an online game provided by a game server, wherein the game item is represented by item data stored in a game database connected to the game server, the item data associated with a first user account, Item data has associated privileges in the online game; Retrieving the item data from the game database; Sending auction item data and a first user identifier to an auction server, wherein the auction item data corresponds to the item data and the first user identifier corresponds to the first user account; Disabling the item data stored in the game database such that the privilege is not available in the online game; Storing the transmitted data in an auction database connected to the auction server; Providing an auction for the game item at the auction server; Accepting one or more bids for the game item at the auction server; Determining a winning bid for the game item among the accepted bids, wherein the winning bid indicates a second user identifier and the second user identifier corresponds to a second user account at the game server; Transferring one or more non-financial items from the account indicated by the second user identifier to the account indicated by the first user identifier based on the winning bid; Updating the item data stored in the game database such that the item data is associated with the second user account; And Enabling the item data stored in the game database such that the privilege is available in the online game. Including, privilege transfer method. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more non-financial items include points stored in an account indicated by the second user identifier. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more non-financial items include game items stored in an account indicated by the second user identifier. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more non-financial items include online privileges stored in an account indicated by the second user identifier. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more non-financial items include an online certificate stored in an account indicated by the second user identifier. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more non-financial items include a representation of a physical item stored in an account represented by the second user identifier. The method of claim 1, wherein said step of transferring one or more non-financial items is performed by a point server. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein an account indicated by the second user identifier and an account indicated by the first user identifier are maintained at the point server. As a way of transferring online privileges, Receiving a request for payment that includes one or more non-financial items; Debiting the one or more non-financial items from a second account; And Representing the one or more non-financial items with a first account Including; And wherein the first account and the second account are accounts that exist on a point server. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the request for payment is received from an auction server. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the request for payment is received from a game server. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the payment is a price for an auction item. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising sending a notification indicating a payment transaction status. As a system of transferring online privileges, A game server having a network connection and storing data for providing an online game and game environment; A game database connected to the game server to store data representing one or more game items, data representing a first user game account, and data representing a second user game account, wherein the game item is associated with the first user game account; Associated-; An auction server having a network connection and connected to said game server via said network connection to store data providing online auctions for game items; An auction database connected to the auction server for storing data representing one or more game items received from the game server, data representing a first user auction account, and data representing a second user auction account; A point server having a network connection and connected to said auction server via said network connection to store data providing online payment service for said one or more game items; And A point database, connected to the point server, for storing data representing a first user point account and data representing a second user point account, wherein the first and second user point accounts are used to store one or more non-financial items. Including an online privilege transfer system. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein said point server is connected to said game server through said network connection. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the point database stores data identifying the first user point account and data identifying the second user point account. The system of claim 14, wherein the point server transfers at least one of the non-financial items from the second user point account to the first user point account. The system of claim 14, wherein the one or more non-financial items include representations of points, game characters, game items, online privileges, online vouchers, and physical items. As a system of transferring online privileges, A network interface providing a network connection, receiving a request for one or more non-financial payment transactions over the network connection, and sending one or more notifications over the network connection; A point database for storing data used for said one or more non-financial payment transactions and maintaining two or more point accounts; And Transaction control that facilitates the one or more non-financial payment transactions, including transferring at least one non-financial item from a second point account to the first point account. Including an online privilege transfer system. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the request for one or more non-financial payment transactions is received from an auction server. The system of claim 19, wherein the request for one or more non-financial payment transactions is received from a game server. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the at least one non-financial item includes a representation of points, game characters, game items, online privileges, online vouchers, and physical items. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the two or more point accounts are registered with users. A computer readable storage medium for storing computer programs used to transfer online privileges, The program causes the computer to Selecting a game item in an online game provided by a game server-the game item represented by item data stored in a game database connected to the game server, the item data associated with a first user account, the item Data has associated privileges in the online game; Retrieve the item data from the game database; Send auction item data and a first user identifier to an auction server, wherein the auction item data corresponds to the item data and the first user identifier corresponds to the first user account; Disable the item data stored in the game database such that the privilege is not available in the online game; Store the transmitted data in an auction database connected to the auction server; Provide an auction for the game item at the auction server; Accept one or more bids for the game item at the auction server; Determine a winning bid for the game item among the accepted bids, the winning bid representing a second user identifier, the second user identifier corresponding to a second user account at the game server; Transfer one or more non-financial items from the account indicated by the second user identifier to the account indicated by the first user identifier based on the winning bid; Update the item data stored in the game database such that the item data is associated with the second user account; Enable the item data stored in the game database such that the privilege is available in the online game. A computer readable storage medium comprising executable instructions.

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