GB2112652A - Game apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

The apparatus has a marked surface 12, 13 extending beside a track or slot 14 and a slider 15 movable therealong relative to the markings, movement of the slider being variably initiated by a player, whereafter the slider will move and then come to rest along the track or slot according to the specific initiation applied and a game step or event will be determined by which marking(s) the slider indicates. The apparatus may be used in conjunction with playing pieces moved over a board (by e.g. specified distances corresponding to the indicated marking(s)) or over cards, e.g. representing holes in a golf game. Games based on cricket, tennis, football, rugby, bowls, horse riding, show jumping, and treasure hunting as well as other miscellaneous games may also be played. <IMAGE>

Description

SPECIFICATION Game apparatus The invention relates to games and game apparatus particularly, though by no means exclusively, where a real game is to be simulated.

This invention arose from considering a previous proposal for a board game using dice and aimed primarily at simulating golf, see British patent specification no. 1577878, where each golf hole marked on a board had branched paths from tee to green, the branches being at hazards such as water or bunkers and affording increased path lengths to the green. Progress from tee to green was according to throws of a numbered dice, and holing out on the green was generally according to another dice. Clearly, the results of throwing dice are a matter of chance. We had it in mind to replace the element of luck by an element of skill.

To that end, we now propose apparatus affording, in use, a marked surface and a part movable over a prescribed track relative to markings of that surface according to a variable initiation of movement of the part by a player whereafter the part will move and then come to rest along the track according to the specific initiation applied and a game step or event will be determined by where on the markings of said surface the part comes to rest.

The track may be prescribed for the part by using a slide or glider constrained by track definition means, such as a guide slot through the marked surface for a projection of the part, or a rail captively engaged by the part.

Apparatus hereof is, in fact, suitable for any game for which suitable markings are devised so that game steps or events depend on where the movable part hereof comes to rest along the track and according to the markings. To initiate movement of the part, a player may flick it with his finger or hit it with the heel of his hand.

Play over the marked surface, i.e. initiating movement of the said part, may be mainly or only from one end, or alternatively from opposite ends, or from rest positions, or combinations thereof, depending upon the game played. The marked surface and the track definition means are preferably disposed in a generally planar manner relative to a support therefor. For games with play mainly or only from one end the support may cause at least the track definition means, if not also the marked surface, to slope shallowly upwards from the start end. The support may further serve to hold sheets or cards for said marked surface in a readily removable and replaceable manner, say to allow the alternative playing of several different games.

A particular aspect of this invention concerns the provision of such a support plus a plurality of marked surface bearing means replaceably associatable with that support.

Where the game simulated is golf, markings of the board for progress from tee-to-green and for holing out in the green can be in separated sets, conveniently, but not necessarily, one to each side of the track also allowing, though not requiring, part movement in the same direction, i.e. from a start end of the track, for tee-to-green play.

Clearly, the proposed apparatus is capable of use simply in conjunction with pieces moved over a board, say of the type envisaged in the above-mentioned patent to simulate golf, i.e. as a simple replacement of the dice thereof. Another version might well involve use in conjunction with pieces moved over cards each bearing one golf hole or other game component or stage.

In either case, and for golf, provision is readily made for giving advantage in holing out on the green according to any balance of score left from the play by which the green is reached. Thus, the set of markings for greenplay will normally, relative to the track, have a medial hole-out marking between underputted and over-putted markings, and the under putted region can be further marked progressively towards the hole-out markings to represent balances of score left from the play by which the green is reached. Then the player can place the said part to correspond and determine the actual distance of track to be covered to the hole-out marking.

Using hole-out, under putted and overputted markings along the track for green play is particularly well adapted to the use of markers whereby "putting" proceeds from wherever the said part came to rest. Accordingly, we further propose such markers, one per player, for association with the marked surface and/or the track and/or the support for the marked surface, say by physical interfitment of a peg, clip or slider as said marker.

For tee-to-green play, we also prefer to provide not only progress markings but also hazard and/or direct holing-out markings.

Such direct holing-out markings may have alternative progress markings applicable if the green is out of range for any particular turn, for example where the green is unattainable by achievement of the maximum possible progress marking. At least when apparatus as now proposed is used in conjunction with the aforesaid board or cards and associated playing pieces, any hazard markings on the marked surface may serve to indicate that a hazard has not been cleared and/or that the nearest hazard, if any, between a player's playing piece and the green is to be entered.

Whilst use of our apparatus with a board or cards will have obvious player appeal, we also point to the possibility of playing tee-to-green entirely on an apparatus hereof, i.e. without such a board or cards. Then, the tee-to-green set of marking will certainly include at least hazard markings. Howerver, it will also conveniently include further tracks or paths one per player along which playing pieces are movable between green and tee indication means one or both of which is or are adjustable for each hole to be played. Encountering a hazard could then be dealt with by moving the player's piece backwards or the green indicator means away or by subtracting a penalty from the next progress marking attained, and hazard indicators may be used as aids in conjunction with said further tracks or paths.

Turning to other games, simulations of football, rugby, tennis, badminton etc will normally be played from opposite ends of the support. Football or rugby would usually require markings for defence/attack purposes with the possibility of passing from a defence marking to an attack marking before attempting to score. Players turns would change after an attempt to score or at missing a pass.

Tennis or badminton would usually require a winner, free for return, and net markings with alternate play turn by turn.

A simulation of cricket can afford both bowling and batting, each turn at that latter following a turn at bowling, and taking place from where the game part comes to rest.

Such possible rest positions for bowling will include leg-before-wicket bowled, stumped markings as well as batting play positions and byes. Possible rest positions for batting will include various run, boundary options plus out caught or run, boundary options pius out caught or run out and fielded (i.e. no-run) options.

Specific implementation of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure I is a plan view of one apparatus hereof; Figure 2 is a side/sectional view of the apparatus of Fig. 1; Figure 3 illustrates, diagrammatically, typical golf hole layouts for a board or cards; Figure 4 is a plan view of another apparatus hereof; Figure 5 shows cards alternative to the holes of Fig. 3; Figures 6 and 7 are sectional and side views of yet another apparatus hereof; Figures 8 and 9 are plan and end views of yet another apparatus hereof; Figure 10 is a plan view from below of the apparatus shown in Fig. 8; and Figure ii shows various replaceable markings carriers for various games.

Referring first to Figs. 1 and 2 a flat board or sheet 10 has at least side supports 11 and carries at its upper surface markings suited to simulating golf play in two sets 12, 1 3 one to each side of a longitudinal slot 14 defining a track along which a slider 1 5 is movable. The slider 1 5 is shown as captive in the slot 14 by reason of a lower portion 1 6 and upper pointers 17, 18 to each side, and carries uppermost a golf ball shaped knob 1 9. Medially, at 20, the slider 1 5 is a free sliding clearance relative to the slot 14 so that flicking the knob 1 9 with a finger will cause the slider to traverse the slot 14 to an extent depending on the force of the flick.

One set of markings, 12, corresponds to play from tee to green and always takes place from the end at which the slider is shown in Figs. 1 and 2. The minimum requirement of the markings 1 2 is to indicate distance covered at each turn. Accordingly, positions are marked with numbers, in this case from 1 to 7 as is convenient for traversing golf hole representations of the type shown in Fig. 3.

In Fig. 3, three typical hole representations A, B and C are shown for pars 3, 4 and 5, respectively. Each has a segmented main path 21 from a tee 22 to a green 23. The main path includes hazard segments 24 from which branch paths 25 extend to the green making a total traversal of a greater number of segments than the main path 21. Pieces are played from the green along the main path according to individual plays and, if a hazard segment is landed upon, the branch path must then be taken. Further details of play and hole variations are given in the aforementioned patent specification, which envisaged play by throwing of a numbered die.

Using the apparatus of Figs. 1 and 2, teeto-green play is now to be according to successive flicks of the slider 1 5 according to where it comes to rest. We find it useful to give the board 10 a shallow upward slope for such play.

It should now be apparent why the numbers 1 to 7 are used, i.e. to ensure that the longest par - 3 hole (6 segments tee-togreen) is just within one shot from the tee. It should also be apparent that other white markings, etc. are equally well usable if it is not desired to fit in with the existing board or cards.

A variant apparatus is shown in Fig. 4 for simulating golf without using a separate board or cards showing branched hole layouts. Compared with Figs. 1 and 2 the only differences concern extension of the board 10 to incorporate additional slots 40 and sliders 41 movable therein over sequentially numbered segments from a tee segment T. On that extension, there is also a slider marker G for movement over the sequentially numbered segments to represent the length of path to the green. Each player will have an allocated one of the sliders 41 and slots 40. The green marker G will be set for a particular hole, say at 6 or 7 or a par - 3, at 7 or 8 for par - 4, or at 9 or 10 for par - 5. If desired, on least one further sliding marker for a hazard may be included movable over the sequentially numbered segments.Then, if registering segment is landed on, the slider 41 may be moved back one or two segments to simulate extra length, or a green slider (replacing that marked G) may be adjusted backwards in the same slot as desired or practicable.

It will be noted that the set 1 2 of markings also includes two segments bearing double markings, specifically 3/H1 and 1/HF, respectively so as to cope with hole-in-one for a par - 3 or short par - 4 hole or holing from the fairway once the green is within range, but yet afford alternative distance/scores if the segment is reached in any other circumstances.

In addition, the set 1 2 of markings further includes hazard markings, shown shaded, which can be used either to send a player's piece to the nearest hazard, if any, between the piece and the green on a board or card, or to force reverse movement of the piece or of an individual green indicator on apparatus of Fig. 4.

Once the green is reached, play continues relative to the other set 1 3 of markings where the single-shaded region represents an overputt, the double-shaded area a hole-out, and the remaining area an underputt. The latter is actually shown divided into segments numbered 0 to 6 in order to allow credit of any balance from the turn by which the green is reached exceeding the actual requirement to reach the green. Play over the set of markings 1 3 is actually from the previous rest position, as in real golf, and holes 45 are indicated in the edge of the board 10 to take marker pegs, advantageously at relatively close intervals.

Another variant for simulating golf is indicated relative to Fig. 5 which shows cards 30A, 30B, 30C marked for par-3, par-4 and par-5 as alternative cards carrying branched path hole markings as in Fig. 3. The cards 30 have a tee portion 31, a segmented fairway section 32 including hazard segments 32A, and a segmented green section 33 allowing a record to be kept of at least first entry onto the green using apparatus of the type of Fig.

1, but possibly omitting hazards in its fairway markings. Players turns will, of course, be taken on such apparatus with pieces moved over a card 30. When a piece rests on a hazard square the next turn result on the apparatus will have two deducted from it. A single set of three cards 30A, 30B, 30 c allows multiple use for a half round (three times each), or a full round (six times each) as indicated below the tee markings 31.

It will be obvious that the number and position of hazard markings may be different and the penalties need not always be deducttwo.

For convenience a rest segment is shown at 34 for pieces of players who have holed out.

Turning now to Figs. 6 and 7, the slider slot 14' is shown central rather than offset as in Figs. 1 and 2, and there is no slope of the side supports 11', though Fig. 6 indicates how such a slope is attainable using extendable and retractable lugs 48 in a connection 49 of the support 11'. Also, the board or sheet 10' is transparent and secured above a gap 50 to a bearer sheet 51 for replaceable cards, sheets or the like bearing markings to be viewed through 10'.

Figs. 8 and 9 show a further variant apparatus having a rail-and-rider arrangement 80, instead of a slot-and-slider arrangement as described above. A slider 82 is shown as captive in a slot 84 by reason of a lower portion 86 and upper points 88, 90 to each side. The upper points are arranged to engage and slide along a pair of spaced rails 92, one on each side of the slot 84.

The slot 84 is shown central, and there are additional sliding markers 94 to each side of the slot. In a similar manner, each of the sliding markers are arranged to slide on a pair of rails 96.

Fig. 9 which is a front end view of the apparatus shows an opening 98 through which replaceable cards, sheets of the like bearing markers simulating various games can be inserted.

Fig. 10 is a plan view from beneath the apparatus and shows a half-moon cut out 100 arranged at one end of the apparatus to assist removal of the replaceable cards, sheets or the like.

One such card, sheet or the like may well be for the golf simulation of Fig. 1. Others may be for other games for example selected from those shown in Fig. 11 at A to N for versions cricket, tennis, football, rugby two special-purpose games, and a version of target golf, respectively, for which brief indications of play are now given.

For cricket and Fig. 11A, bowling will be by flicking the slider 1 5 or 82 from a suitable prescribed position, say "run-out" towards the "batting areas". If the slider comes to rest in a "batting area", it may be flicked by the batsman in the reverse direction. Other rest positions give out bowled or leg-before-wicket or stumped and byes. Rest positions for the batsmen give various run options including no run because fielded, as wall as being out, caught or run out. No-balls occur if the ball fails to reach the batting areas.

For tennis and Fig. 11 B, play is alternatively from each side of a medial net area, normal service landing areas, drop shots win areas, outright winning shot or service areas, and ball out areas. Play is alternately from non-win or -loser positions.

For football and Fig. 1 it, players attempt to pass forward from goalkeeper to defender or attacker, or from defence to attacker, then a goal attempt by the attacker. If the slider does not reach attack/defend/goal area mark ings, turns alternate between players. Fig.

11 D shows the arrangement for rugby, wherein players attempt to score tries, conversions etc.

Fig. 11 E shows a card, sheet or the like for golf and may well be used for the golf simulation of Fig. 1. Fig. 11 F shows a version of target golf where a cumulative total is kept, say for the first player to reach 500.

Figs. 11 G and 11 L show special purpose games 'Knock'em Back' and 'Nine Lives' respectively requiring landing on a players aim and the opponents squares, specified areas sequentially or on total as desired.

Further cards, sheets or the like having game markings thereon include 'Treasure Seekers' (Figs. 11 H), 'Invaders and Defenders' (Figs. l), 'Hares and Hounds' (Fig. 11J), 'Horse Racing/Show Jumping' (Fig. 11 K), 'Bowls' (Fig. 11 M) and 'Junior Soccer' (Fig.

11 N).

Compared with what is shown in the drawings, many modifications and variations are possible. Thus, the slider could be designed for overhanging the marked surface at one or both ends for movement by striking with the heel of the hand rather than or as an alternative to flicking with a finger; marked surfaces, even where readily replaceable, may be directly in sight or not; and the body could be of integrally moulded or snap-together plastics form. Also, it is not essential for the slider/rider to be captive, in fact penalties might be devised for dislodging a non-captive part.

Thus, the present invention can be advantageously adapted to most sports and games by varying the cards, sheets or the like, and is not restricted to British games. For example, basketball, baseball and American football can be adapted for use with the apparatus of the present invention.

Claims (23)

1. A game apparatus affording, in use, a marked surface and a part moveable over a prescribed track relative to markings of that surface according to a variable initiation of movement of the part by a player, whereafter the part will move and then come to rest along the track according to the specific initiation applied and a game step or event being determined by where on the markings of said surface the part comes to rest.

2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the track is prescribed by using a slide or glider constrained by track definition means.

3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the track definition means is a guide slot through the marked surface for a projection of the part.

4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the track definition means is a rail captively engaged by the part.

5. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a start position is arranged at or towards one end of the marked surface for some game simulations.

6. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a start position is arranged at or towards each end of the marked surface for other game simulations, the start positions being adapted for alternate use.

7. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the marked surface and the track definition means are disposed in a generally planar manner relative to a support therefor.

8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein for games having a start position at or towards one end of the marked surface the support causes at least the track definition means to slope shallowly upwards from the start position.

9. An apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein the support additionally causes the marked surface to slope shallowly upwards from the start position.

10. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the support further serves to hold sheets or cards for said marked surface in a readily removable and replaceable manner, thereby affording alternative playing of several different games.

11. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein a plurality of marked surface bearing means are replaceably associatable with the support.

1 2. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the markings of the surface are in separated sets, one to each side of the track also allowing, though not requiring, part movement in the same direction i.e.

from a start position.

1 3. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim for use in conjunction with pieces moved over a board.

1 4. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 1 2 for use in conjunction with pieces moved over cards, each bearing one game component or stage.

1 5. An apparatus as claimed in claims 1 3 or 14, wherein a plurality of progress markers are provided, one per player, for association with the marked surface and/or the track and/or the support for the marked surface.

1 6. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein said plurality of progress markers comprise pegs, clips or sliders which are adapted to engage the marked surface and/or the track and/or the support for the marked surface by physical interfitment.

1 7. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 3 to 16, wherein progress and/or hazard markings are provided on the marked surface.

1 8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1 7 in conjunction with an aforesaid board or cards and associated playing pieces, the hazard markings on the marked surface serving to indicate that a hazard has not been cleared and/or that the nearest hazard, if any, between a player's playing pieces and the final position is to be entered.

19. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein further tracks or paths are provided, one per player, along which playing pieces are movable between a start and a final position, one or both of which is or are adjustable for each game step or event to be played.

20. An apparatus as claimed in claim 19, wherein hazard indicators one provided as aids in conjunction with said further tracks or paths.

21. An apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

22. A method of playing a game apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein initiating movement of the said part is mainly or only from one end, or alternatively from opposite ends, or from rest positions, or combinations thereof, depending upon the game simulation chosen.

23. A method as claimed in claim 22, wherein movement of the part is initiated by a player flicking it with his finger or hitting it with the heel of his hand.