AU2006312406A1 - A game - Google Patents

Description

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 A GAME FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a game for simulating fishing, and more particularly but not exclusively it relates to the use of sets of cards as apparatus 5 for a fishing simulation game. BACKGROUND Various card based games that simulate fishing are known in the art. However, these are simplistic by nature and do not attempt to present a game incorporating the elements of fishing. In addition, such games a re dependent on 10 chance and do therefore not bring to the player(s) elements of skill and/or strategy. For example, US 6332615 describes a card based fishing-simulation game requiring a player to match two cards (point capture card and hit card) in order to access a point card stack. While a combination of cards is required to access the 15 point cards, determination of whether or not a player can actually obtain that point card is dependent on chance as the point capture card present by the player must matches to the point card at the top of the stack. GB 2123304 describes a game wherein a player obtains bait and permit cards. Once they have obtained a preferred combination the player then passes around a board and attempts to land 20 on a square that relates to a fish that matches to the combination of cards that the player possesses. A random generator is then used to determine if the player actually receives the fish that they are attempting to obtain. It is an object of the present invention to provide a game that simulates fishing or which overcomes or at least ameliorates some of the abovementioned 25 disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice. Other objects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -2 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In one aspect of the invention there is provided a set of cards for a game for a player or players wherein said player or players must strategise to select a combination of criteria cards (from a pool of criteria cards) in which to use to 5 obtain a points card, wherein said points cards each have set criteria, requiring two or more of said criteria cards, for a player to obtain them. In one aspect of the invention there is provided a set of cards, for a game for a player or players, or apparatus simulating or notionalising a set of cards for a game for at a player or players ("a set of cards"), comprising 10 a set of criteria cards, each card of each said set of criteria cards bearing an indicia identifying each said criteria card to one of a plurality of criteria related card subsets, a set of point cards, each said card of said set of point cards bearing an indicia or symbol indicating the criteria card or cards required for obtaining that 15 said point card, and wherein the rules of the game consist or comprise: (i) that a winner is that player or players that obtain(s) any one or more of the following: (a) the most cards, 20 (b) the most points, (c) obtaining a specific card, or specific combination of cards, (ii) that each player holds said criteria related card(s) in either (a) an active state, or (b) a spare state, and (iii) that a player qualifies for obtaining a point card if the player's said 25 active criteria related cards match to the criteria of a said point card. Preferably said game is played by two or more players. In one embodiment of the present invention said point card or cards require matching of at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 active criteria cards to obtain a said WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -3 point card. Preferably said point cards require matching of at least 2 or more of said criteria cards to obtain any given said point card. More preferably said point cards require matching of 3, 4 or 5 of said criteria cards to obtain any given said point card 5 In one embodiment of the present invention said game includes a card or set of cards that, when chosen or obtained by a player of said game, affects a condition relating to any or more of the following: - a criteria card or selection of criteria cards, - a point card or selection of point cards. 10 In one embodiment of the present invention said game includes an ancillary set of point card or cards and an ancillary set of criteria card or cards, wherein said ancillary point card or cards bears an indicia or symbol setting a criteria required for obtaining said ancillary point card, and wherein said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any one or 15 more of said ancillary criteria card or cards in an active state before said player can obtain said ancillary point card. In one embodiment of the present invention said cards include a device or devices that allow separation and/or determination of said criteria card(s) into either said active state, or said spare state. 20 Preferably said device or devices comprises a card holder that separates said criteria cards into said two states. Preferably said device or devices comprises two separate card holders, one for the cards in said active state and one for the cards in said spare state. In one embodiment of the present invention said set of cards relate to a 25 fish simulation game. Preferably said criteria card or cards and said ancillary criteria card or cards are tackle related cards. In one embodiment of the present invention said tackle related cards comprise sets of cards selected from one or more of the following: - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a rod ("rod card"), 30 - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a line ("line card"), WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -4 - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a hook ("hook card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a bait ("bait card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lure ("lure card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a fishing net ("net card"), 5 and/or - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lobster pot ("lobster pot card"). In a further aspect the invention is an apparatus for a game to simulate fishing consisting or comprising 10 a set of tackle related cards made up of at least some of the following subsets (i) a subset of cards each to simulate a rod, (ii) a subset of cards each to simulate a line, (iii) a subset of cards each to simulate a hook, 15 (iv) a subset of cards each to simulate a bait, and/or (v) a subset of cards each to simulate a lure, a set of cards as scoring cards that simulate a catch (optionally with different values) having set criteria for obtaining by a player, wherein the rules of the game consist or comprise 20 (i) that a winner is that player or players that obtain(s) any one or -more of the following: (a) the most cards, (b) the most points, and/or (c) obtaining a specific card, or specific combination of cards, 25 (ii) that each player can only have active a predetermined number of said tackle related cards, and any tackle related cards in excess of said predetermined number are held as spare tackle related cards, and (iii) that a player qualifies for obtaining a scoring card if the said players said active tackle related cards match to the criteria of a said scoring 30 card.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -5 Preferably said tackle related cards also include a set of card or cards to simulate a lobster pot. Preferably said tackle related cards also include a set of card or cards to simulate a net. 5 In one embodiment of the present invention said point cards comprise a set of card or cards each to simulate a fishing catch. Preferably each card of said set of point cards has a value, selected from a range of values. One embodiment of the present invention includes the use of a tackle related card to simulate a lobster pot, there is also included a set of lobster point 10 card or cards, each having a value, being a point card to simulate a lobster catch. Preferably said subset of point cards that simulates a lobster catch has a value, selected from a range of values. One embodiment of the present invention includes the use of a tackle related card to simulate a net, there is also included a set of net point card or 15 cards, each having a value, being a point card to simulate a net catch. Preferably said subset of point cards that simulates a net catch has a value, selected from a range of values. One embodiment of the present invention includes a set of surprise cards. Preferably said surprise cards comprise one or more of the following: 20 - a subset of a card or cards to simulate bad weather, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate extreme weather, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a fish finder, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a snagged, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a shark attack, 25 - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a tacklebox, and/or - a subset of a card or cards to initiate card trading. Preferably said criteria of said fish cards require matching of at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 active tackle related cards of a said player to obtain said fish cards. More preferably said criteria of said fish cards require matching to a rod card, a WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -6 line card, a hook card and a bait card. Alternatively, said criteria of said fish cards require matching to a rod card, a line card and a lure card. In one embodiment of the present invention there is included a holder for the accumulated point(s) card(s) ("catch") . Preferably said catch holder is in the 5 shape of a boat. In one embodiment of the present invention there is included a device or devices that allow separation and/or determination of said tackle related cards into either an active state, or spare state. Preferably said device comprises a card holder that separates said tackle related cards into said two states. More 10 preferably said device comprises two separate card holders, one for each of the cards in said active state and spare state. Preferably said card holder for said active cards has slots for placement of at least lobster pot point card and lobster card, net point card and net card, rod card, line card, hook card, bait card and lure card. Preferably said card holder for spare cards has slots for placement of at 15 least rod cards, line cards, pot cards, net cards, lure cards and hook cards. In. one embodiment of the present invention there is also included as apparatus a fishing matrix showing the combination of tackle related cards required to obtain each particular fish point card. In a further aspect the invention is an apparatus for a fishing simulation 20 game comprising the following: - a first set of cards ("tackle related cards") being marked or otherwise bearing an indicia to show them as relating to fishing tackle, - a second set of cards ("points cards") being marked or otherwise 25 bearing an indicia to show them as relating to marine life, - a third set of cards ("surprise cards") being marked or otherwise bearing an indicia to show them as relating to a nautical event, - a device or devices that allow separation and/or determination of said tackle related cards into either an "active state", or a "spare 30 state", and WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -7 wherein said surprise card or cards affects a condition relating to any or more of the following: a criteria card or selection of criteria cards, - a point card or selection of point cards. 5 In one embodiment of the present invention said point card or cards bears an indicia or symbol setting a criteria required for obtaining said point card, and wherein said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any one or more of said tackle related cards in an active state before said player can obtain said point card. 10 Preferably said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any two or more of said tackle related cards in an active state before said player can obtain said point card. Preferably said tackle related cards comprise a card or sets of cards selected from one or more of the following: 15 - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a rod ("rod card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a line ("line card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a hook ("hook card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a bait ("bait card"), and/or - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lure ("lure card"). 20 In one embodiment of the present invention including an ancillary set of point card or cards and an ancillary set of tackle related cards card or cards, wherein said ancillary point card or cards bears an indicia or symbol setting a criteria required for obtaining said ancillary point card, and wherein said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any one or 25 more of said ancillary tackle related cards card or cards in an active state before said player can obtain said ancillary point card. Preferably said tackle related cards comprise a card or sets of cards selected from one or more of the following: a subset of a card or cards to simulate a fishing net ("net card"), 30 and/or WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -8 a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lobster pot ("lobster pot card"). Preferably said apparatus includes a device or devices that is or includes a card holder that separates said tackle related card or cards into said two states. 5 Preferably said device or devices is or includes two separate card holders, one for the cards in said active state and one for the cards in said spare state. Preferably said apparatus includes a repository for holding the point card or cards as accumulated by any player. Preferably each said holder has a repository for holding that players 10 accumulated point card or cards. Preferably said repository is a holder in the shape of a boat. In one embodiment of the present invention said apparatus includes a fishing matrix showing the combination of tackle related cards required to obtain each particular fish point card. 15 In a further aspect the invention is the use of a set of cards of the present invention. In a further aspect the invention is the use of a fishing simulation game of the present invention. According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a 20 substantially as herein described and with reference to any one or more the accompanying drawings and/or examples. Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings. 25 As used herein the term "player" or its derivatives can refer to an individual player or players if one player playing more than one role. As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both. As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -9 The term "comprising" as used in this specification and claims means "consisting at least in part of'. When interpreting statements in this specification and claims which include that term, the features, prefaced by that term in each statement, all need to be present but other features can also be present. Related 5 terms such as "comprise" and "comprised" are to be interpreted in the same manner. To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as 10 defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings in which: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 15 Figures 1A to 11 are examples of sets of cards simulating said first set of cards, such as said tackle related cards, Figures 2A to 2C are examples of sets of cards simulating point cards, such as fish point cards, Figure 3 is an example of a card simulating a lobster pot, 20 Figures 4A and 4B are examples of cards simulating a lobster catch, Figure 5 is an example of a card simulating a net, Figures 6A and 4B are examples of cards simulating a net catch, Figure 7A to 7G are examples of cards simulating surprise cards, Figure 8 is a top view of a holder in the shape of a boat, 25 Figure 9A and 9B are top views of devices that allow separation and/or determination of said set of cards into an active state vs a spare state, Figure 10 is an example of a fishing matrix, and Figure 11 is a top perspective view of one example of a fishing simulation game in mid-play, WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -10 Figure 12 is a top perspective view of another example of a fishing simulation game in mid-play. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION One aspect of the invention is a set of cards for a game that can be played 5 by one or more player or players. Such cards comprise at least a first set of cards that are used to obtain a second set of cards, being point cards. The first set of cards are divided into subsets that each represent a particular substrate or object (criteria cards). These can be presented or used in particular combinations to allow a player to obtain a point card. The point cards generally bear an indicia or 10 symbol or writing or the like, that allows a player to determine the criteria for obtaining a said point card(s). Thus, a player can view a point card to determine the criteria for obtaining said card, ascertain whether or not they have the necessary first set of cards to obtain that particular point car, and if so, present or use the first set of cards to obtain that point card(s). 15 In one embodiment of the present invention each point card has a criteria for obtaining said point card. Preferably each said point card requires 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9 matching said first set of cards to obtain a said point card. Preferably each said point card requires 3 or 4 matching said first set of cards to obtain said point card. 20 In one embodiment of the present invention a winning position is the accumulation of the most point cards, or the accumulation of the most points associated with said point cards or the obtaining of selected point card or cards. In one aspect of the invention there is provided a set of cards, for a game for at least one or more player or players. Typically a game using said set of 25 cards can be played by four to 8 people, although it should be appreciated that any number of people or groups of people can play using a set, or multiple sets of cards.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 11 An individual person could also play the game of the invention by themselves. They could, for example, play as more than one person, or play as an individual. It should also be appreciated that while the examples below are directed to 5 a tangible set of cards, the game could also be played using electronic means wherein each card of each set of cards is represented on-screen as opposed to a physical card. The present invention comprises a set of criteria cards, wherein each card of each said set of criteria cards bears an indicia identifying each said criteria 10 card to one of a plurality of criteria related card subsets. For example, one set of cards may relate to a particular subject or object. Thus, all cards in that subset are linked by the common theme (of that subject or object). There can be multiple set of criteria cards. The present invention also comprises a set of point cards, each said card 15 of said set of point cards bearing an indicia or symbol indicating the criteria card or cards required for obtaining that said point card. Such indicia is generally in the form of a picture or writing that conveys to a player what criteria cards are required prior for that player to be able to obtain that point card. The present invention also comprises a set of rules such as: 20 (i) a winner is that player or players that obtain(s) any one or more of the following: (a) the most cards, (b) the most points, (c) obtaining a specific card, or specific combination of cards, 25 (ii) that each player holds said criteria related card(s) in either (a) an active state, or (b) a spare state, and (iii) that a player qualifies for obtaining a point card if the player's said active criteria related cards match to the criteria of a said point card.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -12 The present invention is further exemplified by reference to the examples stated below. These examples are not intended to be in any way limiting. Example 1 - Fishing Simulation Game More specifically, the set of cards can be used to play a fishing simulation 5 game. The first set of cards (criteria cards) can relate to the apparatus of fishing as shown in Figures 1A to 1G. For example, the rod, line, hooks, lure etc. This set of cards can be further divided up into sub-categories representing specific aspects of each of the rod, line, hooks, and lure etc. For example, it should be appreciated that any number of variations of lines strengths as shown in Figures 10 1B and 1C, or indeed rods can be incorporated into the game. Additionally, as shown in Figures ID and 1E various grades of hooks can be represented by their own individual "hook" apparatus card (optionally each hook card could have two or more hook sizes associated with an individual hook size), as can different kinds of lures and bait (see Figures IG to 11). Optionally, any of said tackle 15 related cards can relates to two or more options per card). Examples of the various types of these apparatus cards are shown in Table 1 below: Table 1. Examples of the various types of apparatus cards that could be used. Tackle related Cards Rod Line Lure Cards Hook Cards Bait Cards Cards Cards Light 5 kg Top water No. 1 Tuna Medium 10 kg Down sinker No. 3/0 Shrimp Heavy 20 kg Speed swim No. 9/0 Shellfish 25 kg All lures No. 1 & 3/0 Squid No. 12 & 9/0 All baits WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 13 In one embodiment of the present invention a player separates their tackle related cards into either active cards or spare cards. It is the active cards that are used when determining whether or not a player meets the criteria set to obtain a point card. In some embodiments of the present invention each player can only 5 have a certain number or kind(s) of active cards. For example, in a preferred embodiment each player can have two sets of tackle related cards. i.e. a first set of tackle comprising one each of a rod, line, hook and bait. Alternatively, a player can replace the hook and bait with a lure. The player can then have a second set of tackle cards comprising one each of a rod, line, hook and bait. 10 Alternatively, a player can replace the hook and bait with a lure. Any cards above this limit can be placed as spare cards. In some embodiments of the invention the cards designated by the player as spare cards can be interchanged with the cards designated as active cards so as to vary, during a game, the types of point cards for which that player is qualified to 15 obtain. Additional tackle related cards can also include lobster pot and/or a fishing net as shown in Figures 3 and 5 respectively. Such cards can be required should a player wish to obtain any point cards related to these two types of apparatus-related cards. 20 Table 2. Examples of the various types of points cards that could be used. Point Cards Fish Cards Lobster Cards Net Cards Card Points Card Points Card Points Blue Mai 1000 Lobster 300 Net catch 300 Mai catch Snapper 1000 Lobster 1000 Net catch 500 catch Bluefin 100 Such a fishing simulation game can have a number of different kinds of points cards as shown above in Table 2 and in Figures 2A to 2C. For example, WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -14 having fish cards of variable value as point cards, each type of fish card specifying the combination of tackle related cards required for a player to be able to obtain said fish point cards. The point cards can be different types of fish. e.g. Blue Mai Mai, Snapper, 5 Bluefin etc. Each of the different types of point cards would therefore require specific combinations of tackle related cards that a player would need in order to be able to obtain that particular point card. For example, should a player wish to obtain the Blue Mao Mao point card, then this card can stipulate that the player needs to have, as active tackle related 10 cards, a rod, 5 kg line, No. I hook and shrimp as bait. The Blue Mao Mao points card can have any points value. e.g. 1000 points. Should a player wish to obtain the Snapper points card, this can require the player to have as active tackle related cards, should they wish to obtain it, a rod, 5 kg line, No. 3/0 hook and shellfish as bait. The Snapper points card can have any points value. e.g. 1000 15 points. Should a player wish to obtain the Bluefin points card, this can require the player to have as active tackle related cards, should they wish to obtain it, a rod, 25 kg line, No. 9/0 hook and squid as bait. Alternatively, instead of using a hook and bait, the player can replace these cards with a lure card. The Bluefin points card can have any points value. e.g. 100 points. 20 Therefore, should a player have as a combination of active cards that match a fish point card, then they are able to obtain that said point card. It should be appreciated that any number and/or combination of tackle related cards could be set as being required for obtaining any particular point card. More preferably said criteria of said fish cards require matching to a rod 25 card, a line card, a hook card and a bait card. Alternatively, said criteria of said fish cards require matching to a rod card, a line card and a lure card. Another type of point card is the lobster point cards as shown in Figures 4A and 4B. These point cards, along with the lobster pot tackle related card, are a set of point cards that simulate a lobster catch. These can have variable values.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 15 For example, a lobster point card representing a lobster catch having a value of 300 points or 1000 points. Another type of point card is the net point cards as shown in Figures 6A and 6B. These point cards, along with the net tackle related card, are a set of 5 point cards that simulate a net catch. These can have variable values. For example, a net point card representing a lobster catch having a value of 300 points or 500 points. Table 3. Examples of the various types of surprise cards that could be used. Type of Effect Variation on play Surprise Bad weather Lose nets and lobster pot Lose the lobster pot and net tackle related cards points cards if they are in an active play location Extreme Lose all tackle related cards if Lose all net and lobster pot weather in an active play location, tackle related cards if they are in an active paly location. Snagged Lose the hooks, lure and bait tackle related cards if they are in the active play location Fish finder Pick up five cards and play A maximum number of them in sequence point related cards can be allowed Shark attack Lose the rod, lines, hooks, lure and bait tackle related cards if they are in the active play location Tacklebox Protects tackle related cards from being lost owing to receiving a surprise card such as extreme weather, line snags etc Trading time Can trade and swap tackle related cards with other players. ca WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 16 Another type of card that can be included are surprise cards. Examples of some surprise cards are shown above in Table 3 and Figures 7A to 7G. A first example is a card or subsets of card or cards to simulate bad weather as shown in Figure 7A. This bad weather card can have an action 5 associated with it. In one embodiment said action is that should a player obtain this card, then they lose (if they have them) at least one or more of their lobster pot card, lobster catch card, net card, net catch card. Preferably these cards are only lost if they are present as active cards. A further example is a card or subsets of card or cards to simulate extreme 10 weather as shown in Figure 7B. This extreme weather card can have an action associated with it. In one embodiment said action is that should a player obtain this card, then they lose (if they have them) at least one or more of their lobster pot card, lobster catch card, net card, net catch card and any tackle related cards. Preferably these cards are only lost if they are present as active cards. 15 A further example is a card or subsets of card or cards to simulate a snagged line as shown in Figure 7C. This snagged line card can have an action associated with it. In one embodiment said action is that should a player obtain this card, then they lose (if they have them) any hook and bait cards, or lure cards. Preferably these cards are only lost if they are present as active cards. 20 A further example is a card or subsets of card or cards to simulate a fish finder as shown in Figure 7D. This fish finder card can have an action associated with it. In one embodiment said action is that should a player obtain this card, then they gain the opportunity to select a number of additional cards. In one embodiment the player who selects this card get the opportunity of selecting an 25 addition 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 cards. Preferably these cards must be played in sequence. More preferably only a selected number of certain cards can be played. For example, a maximum of two of each of fish cards, net cards and lobster pot cards and their associated point cards. A further example is a card or subsets of card or cards to simulate a shark 30 attack as shown in Figure 7E. This shark attack card can have an action WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 17 associated with it. In one embodiment said action is that should a player obtain this card, then they lose (if they have them) any rod, line, hook and bait cards, or lure cards. Preferably these cards are only lost if they are present as active cards. A further example is a card or subsets of card or cards to simulate a 5 tacklebox as shown in Figure 7F. This tacklebox card can have an action associated with it. In one embodiment said action is that should a player obtain this card, said player is protected from the action of losing their net and lobster associated cards, and tackle related cards if that said player selects any one of a bad or extreme weather card, snagged line card or shark attack card. Preferably 10 said tacklebox card can only be used once. A further example is a card or subsets of card or cards to simulate a trading card as shown in Figure 7G. This trading card can have an action associated with it. In one embodiment said action is that should a player obtain this card, then they gain the ability of trading cards with another player. 15 As shown in Figure 8, in one embodiment of the present invention there is included a holder for the accumulated point(s) card(s) ("catch"). Preferably said catch holder is in the shape of a boat. It should be appreciated that any shaped holder could be used, and that the use of a boat shape holder is in keeping with the genre of the game. 20 In one embodiment of the present invention there is included a device or devices that allow separation and/or determination of said tackle related cards into either an active state, or spare state. Preferably said device comprises a card holder that separates said tackle related cards into said two states. As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, more preferably said device comprises two separate card 25 holders (1, 9), one for each of the cards in said active state and spare state. Preferably said card holder 1 for said active cards ("play location holder") (shown in Figure 9A) has slots (3 to 8) for placement of at least lobster pot point card and lobster card, net point card and net card, rod card, line card, hook card, bait card and lure card. Preferably said card holder 9 for spare cards ("spare 30 equipment holder") (shown in Figure 9B) has slots (11 to 16) for placement of at WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -18 least rod cards, line cards, pot cards, net cards, lure cards and hook cards. Alternately, said spare equipment holder may comprise two or more card holders 9. In one embodiment said slots of said card holders (1, 9) as exemplified in 5 Figures 9A and 9B have at least one of their edges bevelled. This allows placement of cards in slots so that the card, instead of sitting strictly vertical, adopts a slanted position owing to said edge bevelling. Preferably only one edge is bevelled. Preferably the bevelling is performed on the bottom side of said card holder. 10 As shown in Figures 10 and 11, in one embodiment of the present invention there is also included as apparatus at least one or more fishing matrix showing the combination of tackle related cards required to obtain each particular fish point card. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, said matrix exhibits the availability of point cards depending on the various combinations of tackle 15 related cards selected as active cards by a player. A number of matrixes can be provided, each relating to a different combination of said tackle related cards. The matrix provides a visual aid in allowing each said player to strategise in deciding what equipment they have as active. Additional, providing some means in which to show which fish they have caught. This can be in the form of tabs or 20 the like that are placed over the relevant fish on the matrix. As shown in Figures 12 and 13 are examples of games in mid-play. It can be seen in Figure 12 that there is play set up for four players, each player having two card holders to enable separation of cards into active versus spare cards, point holders in the shape of a boat, a fishing matrix to show what combination 25 of tackle related cards enable capturing of what fish point cards, tackle related cards set up on the card holders, and a pack of cards in the middle of play from which players pick up from.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -19 Rules of the Game In this example a method of playing a fishing simulation game is described. Firstly, players are issued with game apparatus including at least one each of a play location holder, spare equipment holder, catch holder (in the shape 5 of a boat), and a number of cards. The total set of cards are placed together to fonn a deck of cards. This set of cards includes at least each of the sets of cards relating to: . tackle related cards, . point cards (each of fish point cards, lobster point cards and net point 10 cards) . surprise cards. As shown in Table 4, a player can receive an allotment of cards, either by drawing them one by one or by receiving a set number. For example, as shown in variation 1 or variation 2 of Table 4. 15 Table 4. Cards with player limits Card Limit per player Variation 1 Variation 2 Rod card 2 2 Line card 2 3 Hook card 4 4 Lobster pot card 0 1 Net card 0 1 Bait card 2 1 per kind of bait It should be appreciated that any number of cards can initially be drawn or distributed to said players in the game initially. Once a player has received their initial allotment of cards, they are 20 distributed to the equipment holder (1, 9) (for tackle related cards [except bait WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 20 cards] including lobster pot and net cards) or to the players hand (bait cards and surprise cards). In one variation, any point cards that a player receives in their initial allotment are placed back into the deck. In addition, a limit can be placed on 5 certain cards such that a player cannot exceed this limit. Additionally, another variation is that should the player receive a number of these cards beyond the limit in their initial allotment, then these are placed back into the deck. Examples of cards with limits are shown in Table 4. Alternatively, players can be dealt the specific sub-type (randomly or non 10 randomly) of tackle related card(s) as opposed to drawing from the deck. If the game is played by the players drawing from the deck until they have their required allotment of tackle related cards, should a player receive any surprise cards (except for tacklebox and fish finder cards), in their initial allotment, these are also placed back into the deck. 15 The deck is then reshuffled and placed face down. At any one time a player may fish with two rods, lines, hooks and baits or lure. However, it should be appreciated that any number of set could be used. At the same time a player may have their net and lobster pot placed in the play location holder. The net catches and lobster catches also have slots in the play 20 location holder for these cards to be placed in. Only the fish caught on a rod are placed in a boat (card holder). In turn, each player takes a card from the top of the deck to the discard pile (typically next to the deck). If the card is a: a) Fish Point Card, then if its criteria for obtaining matches a players 25 combination of tackle related cards set as active by placement in the play location holder, then that player obtains said fish point card and places it into their boat. The bait or lure used to "catch" said fish point card is then placed in the discard pile. b) Bait Card, it is then placed in the players hand.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -21 c) Tackle Related Card, then it is placed in the spare equipment holder. d) Surprise card, then the player actions the surprise as described on the card. 5 Once a player has enough tackle related cards to go fishing, they can place their particular chosen combination of tackle related cards in their play location holder. A player may stop fishing at any time by placing all of their tackle related cards in the spare equipment holder. That player can then re-start fishing once they have missed a turn. 10 At any stage a player may pick up a card from the top of the discard pile on the following basis: - if the card is a point card then they can pick it up if they have the corresponding combination of tackle related cards that matches the criteria for that particular point card, 15 . if the card is a tackle related card then that player can pick it up as long as they do not exceed their equipment limits as stated in Table 1 above. A player cannot pick up surprises, bait, net, lobster pot cards or a lure card on the discard pile. 20 Play then continues to the next player. At the end of the card deck pile, the cards can be either shuffled or not. The players can agree on this point before the game starts. Thus a game can end due to any one of the following: - all of the card deck pile has been exposed, 25 . all of the fish point cards have been "caught" . after an agreed period of time . after a certain number of fish point cards have been "caught". Whilst the use of a set of cards for a fishing simulation game has been specifically described, it should be appreciate that the concept could be applied 30 to any game that requires a player to make a selection of cards that are then used WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 22 to enable that player to obtain point cards. For example, instead of fishing, the concept could be applied to simulate a building game. i.e. players get points from building particular structures, the ability of building said structures being dependent on their active equipment. e.g. if they have a hammer, nails, wood and 5 saw they can obtain a point card relating to, for example, a shed. If the player has as active equipment cards a concrete mixer, concrete, shovel and level then they can obtain a point card relating to, for example, a path. In one embodiment of the game players are also issued with a device to allow each player to record what point cards have been obtained. Examples of 10 such a device include a recording device, a device that visually records said information. In one embodiment of the present invention the matrix as shown in Figure 10 or 11 can be used in combination with indicia that are placed over the relevant point card on the matrix of Figure 10 or 11. It should be appreciated that any method or device could be used that allows each player to determine 15 what point cards they, and other payers, have obtained. An advantage of this is that it allows the player(s) to visualise what strategy and tactics they need to win the game i.e. baiting with a bait card, or all bait card or a lure. Each bait type combination you use allows you to target different groups of fish. 20 Using said recording device also allows each player to see the number of points they have obtained. In one embodiment of this game those fish point cards that remain "uncaught" are placed in a location to simulate a "Sea of Fish". Preferably said fish point cards that are uncaught are placed face down in a location. In an 25 alternate embodiment said fish point cards that are uncaught are placed face up in a location. Preferably said uncaught fish point cards are placed adjacent each other. In order for a player to obtain a fish point cards in the Sea of Fish points location, said players can turn over a fish cards in the Sea of Fish in their turn. 30 Said player then has to use their memory or luck to obtain the fish.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -23 This variation therefore adds a further area for a player to choose a card from when it is that player's turn. i.e. at each turn a player can choose to select a card from the card pile, discard pile, or from the Sea of Fish. It should be appreciated that many different end point can be used in order 5 to finish a game. For example, 1. Having a fishing quota which is based upon an agreed total of points to be won. The first to reach this value wins irrespective of the fish type and number of fish caught. 2. Selected fish to be caught. Here all players can fish for a number of 10 fish and the first to reach the majority of this group wins. This game can be extended to allow each player to catch a selected number of fish that are not the same for the other players. 3. Fish all the fish out of the Sea of Fish and the player with the highest total of points wins. 15- For example, a player must decide on what equipment Rod, Line, Hook combination they want (optionally using their Fish Matrix of Figure 10 to help them) and the corresponding bait or lure option. This allows a player to get ready to fish. The game strategy and tactics can therefore depend on what type of game 20 finish is chosen. If the quota option is chosen then the kind of fish caught is not important, its value is. This can have a game play of 10 to 20 minutes depending on the value of points chosen. The quota option requires a number of targeted fish to be selected that 25 have to be caught. Optionally, an easy rule of thumb to the number of fish to be caught is 2 x the number of players plus 1. If the Selected fish to be caught option is selected, this option involves targeting certain fish and it can be extended to individuals selecting their own targeted fish groups. This option can have a game play of 20 to 40 minutes or 30 longer depending of the number targeted WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 24 If the option to fish everything from the Sea of Fish is chosen then the most points wins. This option can have a game play of>40 minutes. Other variations in the game play include using the net points cards as bait. However, a player choosing this would forgo the points value of this card if 5 you choose to use it as bait. The player will also need to be able to recognise their fish types so they can put the correct bait on their chosen Rod, Line, and Hook combination. There are two choices of play when a player comes to the end of the Card Pile: 10 a) Pick up all the fish in the Sea of Fish and put into the Discard Pile and then shuffle the card deck. b) Only shuffle the Discard Pile. This puts more emphasis on the strategy and tactics required to win the game. A player has three choices to play from: 15 1. They can pick up an equipment card from the Discard Pile and build up their equipment levels. 2. They can pick up a card from the Sea of Fish. Optionally certain surprise cards are also in the Sea of Fish. 3. They can chance a card from the Card Pile and this could involve 20 receiving: - a tackle related card, - a fish point card, - a bait card, or - a surprise card. 25 Variation 1 - Group Play Each game can have 2 to 4 players and these players can form a group who can then compete against other groups playing the game (either the same game or optionally completely separate game an apparatus to that of the first group). Each group of players can either combine their point cards, which are WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 -25 then credited to the entire group, or alternatively, each group member can compete against other groups members with in the same game or on alternative game locations. Option 1: 5 A fishing quota is set i.e. a maximum number of points are agreed on (e.g. 5000 points) and the first group to reach this number of points wins. Alternately, the play can continue for V 2 an hour and the winner is the group that has the highest number of points in that 1/2 hour. Option 2: 10 Fish that are desired to be caught are selected (e.g. nine fish point cards). The group that obtains all of the fish in this selection wins. Alternately, the game can be extended by choosing a set time that the game will last for (e.g. 45 min) and then choosing a number of fish point cards (e.g. 10 fish point cards) that need to be obtained. Each group can then select 15 which fish they wish to catch within the agreed number. Each team member is distributed to a separate game where they compete against other teams members. The winner is the team who has caught the most fish in their chosen selection. A variation on this is that a player can be awarded additional fish cards 20 depending on their card combinations. Option 3: Game play continues until all the fish are caught. Each team member is distributed to a separate game where they compete against other teams members. 25 The winner is the team who has caught the most fish and not necessarily the most points. Note you can be awarded additional fish cards depending on your card combinations. A variation on this is that a player can be awarded additional fish cards depending on their card combinations.

WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 26 Scoring Variations - Row and Column Combinations A number of different scoring variations can also be used as set out in Table 5 below based on using the fishing matrix as shown in Figures 10 and 11. Table 5. Summary of additional Scoring options. In a Row Multiple of Additional on Matrix a Same Point Point Card Cards Obtained Fish Point Card 2 0 2 3 0 3 4 0 4 8 0 10 0 4 10 2 4 12 3 4 13 4 4 14 8 4 20 Lobster Pot Point N/A 2 2 Card N/A 3 6 Net Point Card N/A 2 4 N/A 3 6 N/A 4 8 N/A 5 10 5 For example, should a player obtain four fish that form a row on the matrix (either vertically or horizontally), then the player would receive four additional fish point cards. Additionally, should a player obtain four of the same point card, then they receive an additional ten fish point cards. 10 Optionally the same concept can be applied to the lobster pot or net point cards. i.e. if a player obtains multiples of these point cards then they can obtain further point cards (see Table 5). The same concept can be applied to any of said point cards. For example, the lobster catch and the net catch point cards as shown in table 5. 15 WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - 27 Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that rather than an actual set of cards, software for a computer and/or computerised games can be provided that simulate or notionalise such a set of cards. It should be appreciated that these examples are intended to be non 5 limiting, and the concept embodied in the use of a set of cards as described could be applied to any subject matter adaptable into a game. Furthermore, the game can be further enhanced by supplying additional sets of cards that can either replace a specific game, or add to the said game. For example, should a player have a set of cards relating to simulating fishing, they 10 may be able to enhance the game by purchasing further packs of cards to enhance the game play. Alternately, owing to the use of common equipment, it would also be able to purchase additional sets of game related cards (e.g. building) that can be used on the existing equipment purchased for a fishing relating game. Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements 15 or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth. Although the invention has been described by way of example and with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications and/or improvements may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of 20 the invention.

Claims (45)

1. A set of cards, for a game for at least one or more player or players, or apparatus simulating or notionalising a set of cards for a game for at least two players ("a set of cards"), comprising a set of criteria cards, each card of each said set of criteria cards bearing an indicia identifying each said criteria card to one of a plurality of criteria related card subsets, a set of point cards, each said card of said set of point cards bearing an indicia or symbol indicating the criteria card or cards required for obtaining that said point card, and wherein the rules of the game consist or comprise: (i) that a winner is that player or players that obtain(s) any one or more of the following: (a) the most cards, (b) the most points, (c) obtaining a specific card, or specific combination of cards, (ii) that each player holds said criteria related card(s) in either (a) an active state, or (b) a spare state, and (iii) that a player qualifies for obtaining a point card if the player's said active criteria related cards match to the criteria of a said point card.

2. A set of cards, for a game for at least one or more player or players, or apparatus simulating or notionalising a set of cards for a game for at least two players ("a set of cards"), comprising a set of criteria cards, each card of each said set of criteria cards bearing an indicia identifying each said criteria card to one of a plurality of criteria related card subsets, WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 a set of point cards, each said card of said set of point cards bearing an indicia or symbol indicating the criteria card or cards required for obtaining that said point card, and wherein the rules of the game consist or comprise: (i) that a winner is that player or players that obtain(s) any one or more of the following: (a) the most cards, (b) the most points, (c) obtaining a specific card, or specific combination of cards, (ii) that each player holds said criteria related card(s) in either (a) an active state, or (b) a spare state, and (iii) that a player qualifies for obtaining a point card if the player's said active criteria related cards match to the criteria of a said point card, and wherein the criteria for obtaining any given said point card is the requirement for a specific combination of two or more of said criteria cards.

3. A set of cards for a game of either claim 1 or 2 for two or more players.

4. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein a said point card requires matching of at least 3, 4, 5, or 6 active criteria cards to obtain a said point card.

5. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein each said player can only obtain a certain number of said criteria cards.

6. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein said game includes a card or set of cards that, when chosen or obtained by a player of said game, affects a condition relating to any or more of the following: - a criteria card or selection of criteria cards, - a point card or selection of point cards. WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286

7. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 1 to 6 including a device or devices that allow separation and/or determination of said tackle related cards into either said active state, or said spare state.

8. A set of cards for a game of claim 7 wherein said device or devices comprises a card holder that separates said criteria cards into said two states.

9. A set of cards for a game of either claim 6 or 7 wherein said device or devices comprises two separate card holders, one for the cards in said active state and one for the cards in said spare state.

10. A set of cards for a game of any. one of claims 1 to 9 including an ancillary set of point card or cards and an ancillary set of criteria card or cards, wherein said ancillary point card or cards bears an indicia or symbol setting a criteria required for obtaining said ancillary point card, and wherein said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any one or more of said ancillary criteria card or cards in an active state before said player can obtain said ancillary point card.

11. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein said game includes a repository for holding the point card or cards as accumulated by any player.

12. A set of cards for a game of claim 11 wherein each said holder has a repository for holding that players accumulated point card or cards

13. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein said cards relate to a fish simulation game.

14. A set of cards for a game of claim 13 wherein said criteria card or cards, and said ancillary card or cards are tackle related cards.

15. A set of cards for a game of claim 14 wherein said tackle related cards comprise a card or sets of cards selected from one or more of the following: - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a rod ("rod card"), . a subset of a card or cards to simulate a line ("line card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a hook ("hook card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a bait ("bait card"), WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lure ("lure card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a fishing net ("net card"), and/or - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lobster pot ("lobster pot card").

16. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 13 to 15 wherein said point cards simulate a catch having set criteria for obtaining by a player of said game.

17. A set of cards for a game of claim 16 wherein said catch cards have any value.

18. A set of cards for a game of either claims 16 or 17 wherein each said catch card has as a criteria to obtain said fish point card the requirement for a said player of said game to have as an active tackle related card each of the following: - a rod card, - a line card, and/or - a bait card.

19. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 16 to 18 wherein said catch cards comprise a card or set of cards selected from one or more of the following: a subset of a card or cards to simulate a fish, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a net catch, and/or - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lobster pot catch.

20. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 13 to 19 wherein said card or set of cards that affects a condition, are surprise cards that relate to fishing.

21. A set of cards for a game of claim 20 wherein said surprise cards comprise any one or more of the following: - a subset of a card or cards to simulate bad weather, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate extreme weather, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a fish finder, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a snagged, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a shark attack, - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a tacklebox, and/or WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - a subset of a card or cards to initiate card trading.

22. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 15 to 21 wherein each said fish point card has as a criteria to obtain said fish point card the requirement for a said player of said game to have as an active tackle related card each of the following: - a rod card, - a line card, and/or - a lure card.

23. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 13 to 22 wherein said card holder for said active cards has slots for placement of at least each of a lobster pot point card, a lobster pot point card, a net point card, a net card, a rod card, a line card, a hook card, a bait card, and lure card.

24. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 13 to 22 wherein said card holder for spare cards has slots for placement of at least rod cards, line cards, pot cards, net cards, lure cards and hook cards.

25. A set of cards for a game of either claim 23 or 24 wherein said repository is a holder in the shape of a boat.

26. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 13 to 25 including a fishing matrix showing the combination of tackle related -cards required to obtain each particular fish point card.

27. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 1 to 26 wherein said game is a group game comprising two or more sets of said set of cards for a game.

28. A set of cards for a game of claim 27 wherein each of said player of a said set of cards for a game competes against players of another said set of cards of a game.

29. A set of cards for a game of claim 27 wherein at least two groups of players compete against each other, and wherein at least one player of each said groups play in each set of cards of a game.

30. Apparatus for a fishing simulation game comprising the following: WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286 - a first set of cards ("tackle related cards") being marked or otherwise bearing an indicia to show them as relating to fishing tackle, - a second set of cards ("points cards") being marked or otherwise bearing an indicia to show them as relating to marine life, - a third set of cards ("surprise cards") being marked or otherwise bearing an indicia to show them as relating to a nautical event, - a device or devices that allow separation and/or determination of said tackle related cards into either an "active state", or a "spare state", and wherein said surprise card or cards affects a condition relating to any or more of the following: - a criteria card or selection of criteria cards, - a point card or selection of point cards.

31. An apparatus of claim 30 wherein said point card or cards bears an indicia or symbol setting a criteria required for obtaining said point card, and wherein said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any one or more of said tackle related cards in an active state before said player can obtain said point card.

32. An apparatus of claim 31 wherein said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any two or more of said tackle related cards in an active state before said player can obtain said point card.

33. An apparatus of any one of claims 30 to 32 said tackle related cards comprise a card or sets of cards selected from one or more of the following: - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a rod ("rod card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a line ("line card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a hook ("hook card"), - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a bait ("bait card"), and/or - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lure ("lure card"). WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286

34. A set of cards for a game of any one of claims 30'to 33 including an ancillary set of point card or cards and an ancillary set of tackle related cards card or cards, wherein said ancillary point card or cards bears an indicia or symbol setting a criteria required for obtaining said ancillary point card, and wherein said criteria is the requirement for a player to have any one or more of said ancillary tackle related cards card or cards in an active state before said player can obtain said ancillary point card.

35. An apparatus of claim 34 wherein said tackle related cards comprise a card or sets of cards selected from one or more of the following: - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a fishing net ("net card"), and/or - a subset of a card or cards to simulate a lobster pot ("lobster pot card").

36. An apparatus of any one of claims 30 to 35 wherein said device or devices is or includes a card holder that separates said tackle related card or cards into said two states.

37. An apparatus of either claim 30 to 36 wherein said device or devices is or includes two separate card holders, one for the cards in said active state and one for the cards in said spare state.

38. An apparatus of any one of claims 30 to 36 wherein said game includes a repository for holding the point card or cards as accumulated by any player.

39. An apparatus of claim 38 wherein each said holder has a repository for holding that players accumulated point card or cards.

40. An apparatus of either claim 38 or 39 wherein said repository is a holder in the shape of a boat.

41. An apparatus of any one of claims 30 to 40 including a fishing matrix showing the combination of tackle related cards required to obtain each particular fish point card.

42. A set of cards or any one of claims 1 to 29 that is not apparatus simulating nor notionalising a set of cards. WO 2007/055597 PCT/NZ2006/000286

43. The use of a set of cards of any one of claim 1 to 29 and 42.

44. The use of an apparatus of any one of claim 30 to 41.

45. A fishing simulation game as described herein with or without reference to any one or more of the examples.