JP2007504901A - System and method for rewarding game machine players - Google Patents

Abstract

The system and method rewards bonus points to game console players. Bonus points are credits or reward points that can be converted into credits for playing on a game console. The player has a player account recorded on a computer connected to the game machine. The computer has a database for recording vouchers having variables. Each voucher has a first bonus point value that can be assigned to a player account.

Description

(Related application)
This application claims priority based on US Provisional Patent Application 60/502179 (filing date 2003/9/11) and US Patent Application 10/661198 (filing date 2003/9/12).

  The present invention relates generally to gaming machines, and more particularly to a system and method for rewarding gaming machine players.

  In recent years, the casino game market has grown and competed, and the technology that has been introduced into the game environment in the individual game, casino management, and auditing divisions has been developed by game producers and game facility operators. , And provide challenges and opportunities for regulators. Technical features and requirements for advanced electronic game consoles, multi-site game operations, detailed player tracking, wide-area progressive jackpots, and various other options such as players using coins and currencies are casino operations It provides a potentially huge collection of constantly changing data that can be of great value to managers (from an administrator's perspective) and regulators (from an audit / compliance perspective).

  An area that has gained much interest in recent years is providing bonuses and incentives to players of video game machines such as video slot machines and video poker machines. Prizes can be selected randomly or based on the player's previous level of play. When the player achieves the selected condition, a prize is released from the hopper of the game machine in the form of credit.

  Players can also be rewarded through a player tracking club. Typically, a player is identified by a player tracking ID and / or a player identification number (PIN). The player tracking system tracks the player's play content and gives player tracking points to the player according to set criteria. Player tracking points can be redeemed for prizes such as meals and merchandise.

  However, both of these systems are inflexible and do not provide the casino operator with the maximum benefits and benefits to be gained from current information and systems.

  The present invention is directed to solving some of the problems described above.

  As a first feature of the present invention, a method for rewarding a bonus point to a player of a game machine is provided. The player has a player account on a computer coupled to the game machine. The computer has a database for storing vouchers with variables. Each voucher has a value of a first bonus point, and each voucher can be assigned to a player account.

  As a second feature of the present invention, a method of rewarding a bonus point to a player of a game machine is provided. The player has a player account on the computer. The computer is connected to the game machine and includes a database for storing the voucher. Each voucher holds a variable related to the expiration date of the voucher. The method comprises the steps of assigning a first bonus score value to a first voucher, a first expiration date to a first voucher variable, and a first voucher to a player account.

  As a third feature of the present invention, a method for providing incentive points to a player of a game machine is provided. The player has a player account on the computer. The computer is connected to the game machine and includes a database for storing the voucher. Each voucher has a variable. The method includes assigning a value of a first bonus point to a first voucher, defining a variable of the first voucher as to whether or not cashing is possible, and assigning the first voucher to a player account. Assigning.

  As a fourth feature of the present invention, a method for rewarding a bonus point to a player of a game machine is provided. The game machine can accept variable latches. Variable latches have a maximum latch value. The player has a player account on the computer. The method comprises the steps of giving a player a first bonus point and downloading the first bonus point as a first credit to a player tracking device connected to a computer. The method further includes the steps of allowing the player to set a premium, playing the gaming machine, subtracting the premium from the credit meter, subtracting the maximum premium from the player tracking device, and a maximum to the credit meter. Providing a latch.

  As a fifth feature of the present invention, a system for rewarding a player of a game machine with bonus points is provided. The system includes a computer and a database stored on the computer. A computer is connected to the gaming machine to track player accounts. The database stores the voucher. Each voucher has a variable. The computer assigns the value of the first bonus point to the first voucher and assigns the first voucher to the player account.

  As a sixth feature of the present invention, a system for rewarding a bonus point to a player of a game machine is provided. The system includes a computer and a database stored on the computer. The computer keeps track of the player account. The database stores the voucher. Each voucher holds a variable related to the expiration date of the voucher. The computer assigns the first bonus score value to the first voucher, the first expiration date to the first voucher variable, and the first voucher to the player account.

  As a seventh feature of the present invention, a system for rewarding a bonus point to a player of a game machine is provided. The system includes a computer that tracks player accounts and a database that is stored on the computer and stores vouchers. Each voucher has a variable. The computer assigns the value of the first bonus point to the first voucher, defines whether the variable of the first voucher can be cashed, and assigns the first voucher to the player account.

  As an eighth aspect of the present invention, the system includes a game machine, a computer, and a database stored on the computer. The game machine has a player tracking device and a credit meter. A computer is connected to the game console to track the player account. The database stores information regarding player accounts. The computer provides the player account with a first bonus point value, converts the associated first bonus point value to a first credit value, and downloads the first credit to the player tracking device. The game machine allows the player to set up and play. Further, the gaming machine subtracts the premium from the credit meter, subtracts the maximum premium from the player tracking device, and provides the maximum premium to the credit meter.

  Other advantages related to the present invention can be easily evaluated by referring to the detailed description to be described later and the accompanying drawings, and further understanding of the present invention.

In diagrams and operations, the present invention provides system 10 and methods 50, 52, 54, 56, 58 for providing credit to players of gaming machine 12. In one embodiment, system 10 and methods 50, 52, 54, 56 may be implemented or implemented through entertainment monitoring system 14 shown in block diagram 1.
The entertainment monitoring system 14 includes real-time multi-site, slot accounting, player tracking, cage credit and vault, sports gambling data collection, POS accounting, keno accounting, bingo accounting, table game accounting, progressive jackpot And additional functions such as electronic funds settlement.
Two of these systems are US patent application 09 / 967,571 (filing date 2001/9/28) and US provisional patent application (unassigned) (filing date 2003/9/11) (Attorney Docket No. 60518-169), both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

  The system 10 includes a plurality of game machines 12. The game machine 12 is an electronic game machine (video slot, video poker, video arcade game, etc.), an electric game machine, a virtual game machine such as an online game, an interface to a table management system for a table game (not shown), etc. However, the present invention is not limited to these. In the illustrated embodiment, eight electronic game machines (or EGM) 12A-12H are shown. However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the number and type of game machines 12. In one embodiment, a plurality of game machines 12 are arranged in a row (not shown).

  Other game machines (see above) that can be included in the system are indicated by the number 12I.

  The game machine 12 is connected to one or more host computers 18 via a network 16. The host computer is usually located remotely or centrally. Computer 18 includes a computer program application 20 that maintains one or more databases 22. In one embodiment, the database (s) uses an Oracle database (s).

  The computer program application 20 and the database 22 can be used for recording, tracking, and reporting accounting information regarding the game machine 12 and its players. In addition, the computer program application 20 and database 22 can be used to maintain information regarding player tracking accounts. (See below)

Usually, the player 24 can play the game machine 12. Player 24 can select one gaming machine 12C to play and insert coins, credits, coupons, and / or player tracking cards (not shown) into the selected gaming machine (EGM) 12C. Generally, the game machine 12C holds credits or coin numbers necessary for play related to the game machine. In the case of a video slot or a poker game, when a game is played, a prize is paid in the form of credits based on the pay table of the game machine 12.

  FIG. 2 shows a block diagram suitable for the electronic game machine 12C.

  The game machine 12C includes a game control device 26 or a central control device (CPU), a coin / banknote management device 28, a display processing device 30, a RAM 32 that is a memory element, and a ROM 34 (generally provided as an EPROM). Become. The CPU 26 is mainly composed of a microprocessor device, and performs various calculations and operation control necessary for the progress of the game. The coin / banknote management device 28 senses the insertion of coins and banknotes, and implements the procedures necessary to manage the coins and banknotes. The display processing device 30 interprets a command emitted from the CPU 26 and displays a desired image on the display 36. The RAM 32 temporarily stores programs and data necessary for game progress. The ROM 34 stores in advance programs and data necessary for controlling basic operations of the game machine 12C, such as a boot operation of the game machine 12, game codes, and images.

  Input to the game machine 12C is realized by a mechanical switch, a button, or a touch screen interface (not shown). Such a game machine 12 is well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described here any further.

  The player 24 is identified by the player tracking card and / or the player identification number input to the player tracking device 38 of the game machine (EGM) 12. (See below) For video slots and poker games, in addition to rewards specified on the paytable of the gaming machine (EGM) 12, a player tracking account is typically used for giving bonuses to the player. These bonuses can be given to the player 24 based on several criteria. Here, the reference includes the following, but is not limited to the following. a) the content of the player's play on the machine 12C, b) the content of the entire play of the player, c) the content of the play in a predetermined period, d) the birthday or anniversary of the player, or e) other definable criteria. In addition, bonuses can be given randomly. That is, it is given to a randomly selected player or a randomly selected game machine 12. The bonus can be given based on any other method or standard (for example, shopping at a souvenir shop or other partner facility).

In one embodiment, the player tracking device 38 includes a processing device 40, a player identification card reader 42 and / or a numeric keypad 44, and a display 46. In one embodiment, the display 46 is a touch screen panel on which a numeric keypad 44 is implemented.

  The player 24 can be identified by a player tracking card inserted into the player identification card reader 42 and / or a player identification number (PIN) input to the numeric keypad 46. The player tracking device 38 can also be used to exchange information between the corresponding game machine (EGM) 12C and the corresponding computer 18. The player tracking device 40 can also be used to track bonus points, ie reward points downloaded from the computer 18, or credits.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the bonus is given as a bonus point. In one embodiment, the bonus points are reward points. In another embodiment, the bonus points are credits.

  Reward points can be converted into credits based on a predetermined ratio. This ratio may be 1 or other. The predetermined ratio can be changed based on a predetermined standard, for example, the game machine 12 used, the player, or the time. For reward points, it can be specified whether or not cashing is possible. As described below, reward points of the player account can be downloaded to the game machine 12 for play.

  It can be specified whether or not the reward points of the player account can be cashed. In one embodiment, a player account can only have cash reward points. In another embodiment, a player account can only have reward points that cannot be cashed. In a third embodiment, a player account can have both cashable reward points and non-cashable reward points.

  In yet another example, a player account may have reward points that are and / or are not cashable and credits that are and / or are not cashable. it can.

  Credits that can be cashed or reward points converted to credits can be downloaded to the game machine (EGM) 12. When the player finishes playing on the game machine (EGM) 12, the remaining credit is cashed (received in coins) or printed as a voucher for cashing or playing on another game machine 12 Can be placed on a player tracking card.

  Credits that cannot be cashed must be played. When the player finishes playing with the game machine (EGM) 12C, the non-cashable credit downloaded to the game machine (EGM) 12 disappears or is uploaded again to the player account and returned. (See below)

  In FIG. 3, the database 22 keeps track of the player account for each player on the player tracking system. In the illustrated example, account numbers, reward points, names, credits that can be cashed, and credits that cannot be cashed are tracked for each player. Thus, in this example, bonus points can be given in the form of reward points, credits that can be cashed, and credits that cannot be cashed.

  In FIG. 4, bonus points can be given via electronic certificates (records in the database 22). The voucher 48 is created every time bonus points are awarded. In the schematic diagram of FIG. 4, three vouchers 48A, 48B, and 48C are shown. Each voucher 48 has a voucher number and an amount (in this example, dollar or credit amount). Each voucher 48 is assigned to a player account, and holds its own assigned player account number. Each voucher 48 can have further variables and fields depending on the needs of the system 10. For example, an effective date can be included that gives a date when each voucher 48 expires. The voucher 48 can also specify whether or not the bonus points can be cashed.

  As one of the features of the present invention, the computer 18 can create the first voucher 48 and assign the first bonus point value thereto. The computer 18 can further create a second voucher 48 and assign a second bonus point value thereto. The first and second vouchers 48 can be assigned to player accounts. Each voucher has a variable. The variable of the first voucher has a first value, and the variable of the second voucher has a second value.

  In one embodiment, the bonus points are reward points that can be converted into credits, and the reward points can be downloaded to the gaming machine (EGM) 12C.

  In another embodiment, the bonus points are credits that can be downloaded to the gaming machine (EGM) 12.

  In one embodiment, the game machine 12C can display to the player 24 a list of vouchers 48 assigned to the player account of the player. The player 24 can select at least one voucher from among them for the purpose of downloading. The list can be displayed whenever appropriate. For example, when the player 24 is identified by the system 10, when the player requests a list display (through the menu system), when a new voucher is created, and other appropriate cases. In one embodiment, the list can be displayed on the game console display 36. In another embodiment, the list is displayed on the player tracking device display 44.

  The first and second variables of the first and second certificates, respectively, may be the same or different. For example, in one embodiment, the variable is related to the expiration date of each voucher. The expiration date may be a function of the date on which the voucher was created. Therefore, the expiration date is different if the date of creation of the voucher is different, and the expiration date is the same if the date is the same.

  In another embodiment, the variable represents whether cashing is possible or not. The computer 18 can designate the voucher 48 as cashable or impossible. This is usually determined by a predefined standard based on how the voucher 48 was created.

  If the bonus points of a certain voucher 48 are reward points, the reward points can be converted into credits before being downloaded to the game machine 12C. As described above, the conversion is performed using a preset ratio (1 or some other ratio).

  In one embodiment, the gaming machine 12 can provide a signal that informs the player 24 that the first or second voucher 48 has been assigned to the player account. For example, the cues may be audible and / or visual.

  In one embodiment, the variable is the expiration date of each voucher. Each voucher can have a second variable for indicating whether or not each bonus point can be cashed.

  In one embodiment, the computer 18 converts the first bonus point value to a first credit value and downloads the first credit value to the player tracking device 38.

  In another embodiment, the gaming machine 12 has a credit measurement, which tracks the credit that the player 24 can use for play. The computer 18 can convert the first bonus point value into a first credit value and download the first credit value to the credit meter.

  In one embodiment, the variable may represent one lump-sum and pay for play. If the voucher 48 is designated as a lump sum payment, the computer 18 can convert the first bonus points into credits and download the credits to a credit meter.

  In one embodiment, game machine 12 can accept a variable bet. The variable hasp has a maximum hasp value or MAX BET. In one embodiment, the maximum premium value is the same as the smallest value among the value defined in the configuration of the game machine 12, the reward setting value, and the bonus point balance. The computer 18 converts the first bonus point value associated with the first voucher 48 into a first credit value, and downloads the first bonus point value to the player tracking device 38 as a credit. The game machine 12C allows the player 24 to set a premium and to play on the game machine 12C. The game machine 12C subtracts the premium from the credit meter, subtracts the maximum premium from the player tracking device 38, and provides the maximum premium value to the credit meter as the player 24 plays on the game machine 12C.

  FIG. 5 shows a method 50 for awarding bonus points to the player 24 of the game machine 12C. Player 24 has a player account stored in computer 18. The computer 18 includes a database 22 that stores a voucher 48. Each voucher has at least one variable. In the first step 50 A, the value of the first bonus point is assigned to the first voucher 48. The variable of the first voucher 48 holds the first value. In the next step 50B, the first voucher 48 is assigned to the player account. In the third step 50C, the value of the second bonus point is assigned to the second voucher. The variable of the second voucher has a second value. In the fourth step 50D, the second voucher 48 is assigned to the player account.

  FIG. 6 shows a method 52 for rewarding the player of the game machine 12C with bonus points. The player 24 has a player account in the computer 18. The computer 18 includes a database 22 that stores a voucher 48. Each voucher 48 has a variable related to the expiration date of the voucher 48. In the first step 52A, the value of the first bonus point is assigned to the first voucher 48. In the second step 52B, the first expiry date is given to the first voucher. In the third step 52C, the first voucher 48 is assigned to the player account.

  FIG. 7 shows a method 54 for rewarding the player of the game machine 12C with bonus points. The player 24 has a player account in the computer 18. The computer 18 includes a database for storing the voucher 48. Each voucher 48 has a variable. In the first step 54A, the value of the first bonus point is assigned to the first voucher. In the second step 54B, whether or not cashing is possible is defined as a variable of the first voucher 48. In a third step 54C, the first voucher 48 may be assigned to the player account.

  FIG. 8 shows a method 56 for rewarding the player of the game machine 12 with bonus points. The game machine 12 can accept a variable latch. The variable latch has a maximum bet value (MAX BET). The player 24 has a player account in the computer 18. In the first step 56A, the player account is awarded a first bonus point. In the second step 56B, the first bonus point value is downloaded to the player tracking device 38 as the first credit value. In the third step 56C, the player 24 sets a premium. In the fourth step 56D, the game machine 12 is played. In a fifth step 56E, the premium is subtracted from the credit meter. In a sixth step 56F, the maximum premium value is subtracted from the player tracking device 38. In a seventh step 56G, the maximum premium value is provided to the credit meter.

  FIG. 9 shows a method 58 for rewarding the player of the game machine 12 with bonus points. The game machine can accept variable latches. The variable latch has a maximum bet value (MAX BET). The player 24 has a player account in the computer 18. In the first step 56B, the player account is given a first bonus point value. In a second step 58B, bonus points are downloaded as credits to the player tracking device 38. In the third step 58C, the player 24 sets a premium. In the fourth step 58D, the game machine 12 is played. In a fifth step 58D, if the player's total sum is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, ie greater than or equal to a predetermined play amount, the method 58 proceeds to step 58F. If not, the method 58 allows the player 24 to set more premiums. In a sixth step 58F, the play amount is subtracted from the player tracking device 38. In 58G of the seventh step, a play amount is given to the credit measuring instrument.

  Based on the above description, it is apparent that the present invention can be variously improved and changed. The present invention may be practiced outside the scope of the following claims.

1 is a block diagram of a system for granting credit to a game console player in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. It is a block diagram of the game machine utilized with the system of FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a database that tracks a plurality of player tracking accounts according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a database holding a plurality of vouchers assigned to a player tracking account according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is the flowchart which showed the method of giving the credit to the player of the game machine based on the 1st example of this invention. It is the flowchart which showed the method of giving the credit to the player of the game machine based on 2nd execution example of this invention. It is the flowchart which showed the method of giving the credit to the player of the game machine based on the 3rd execution example of this invention. It is the flowchart which showed the method of giving the credit to the player of the game machine based on the 4th execution example of this invention. It is the flowchart which showed the method of giving the credit to the player of the game machine based on 5th execution example of this invention.

Claims (140)

A method of rewarding a player of a game machine with bonus points, wherein the player has a player account in a computer, the computer is connected to the game machine, and includes a database for storing vouchers, and each of the vouchers Has variables, and the method
Assigning a value of a first bonus point to a first voucher, and holding a first value in a variable of the voucher;
Assigning a first voucher to a player account;
Assigning a value of the second bonus point to the second voucher, and holding the second value in the voucher variable;
Assigning a second voucher to the player account,
A method characterized by that.   The method of claim 1, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   The method of claim 1, wherein the bonus points are credits.   4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the bonus points are credits, and the bonus points are downloaded from the electronic game machine as credits. The step of downloading the bonus points to the game machine includes:
Displaying a list of player vouchers;
The player can select at least one voucher to download,
The method of claim 4 wherein:   The method according to claim 1, wherein the variable relates to an expiration date of each voucher.   The method of claim 6, wherein the values of the first and second variables are the same.   The method of claim 6, wherein the first and second values are different.   The method of claim 1, wherein the variable represents whether cashing is possible.   The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of specifying whether or not the first bonus point assigned to the first voucher can be cashed.   The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of converting the first bonus point value to a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to a gaming machine. The step of downloading the value of the first credit to the game machine includes:
Displaying a voucher list on the player;
The player can select at least one voucher to download,
12. The method of claim 11, wherein: A player causing the game machine to identify itself;
Displaying a list of downloadable vouchers in the player;
A step in which the player can select at least one voucher to download;
Converting bonus points associated with the selected at least one voucher into credits;
Downloading credits to a gaming machine,
The method of claim 1 wherein:   The method of claim 13, wherein the step of identifying the player is performed using at least one of a player tracking identification card and a player tracking identification number. A step in which a player plays on a game machine;
Providing a cue through the gaming machine when a second voucher is assigned to the player account;
The method of claim 1 wherein:   The method of claim 15, wherein the cue is at least one of an audible and visual cue.   The variables are related to the expiration date of the corresponding voucher, and each voucher has a second variable that specifies whether or not the bonus points of each voucher can be cashed. The method of claim 1 wherein: The game machine has a player tracking device, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to the value of the first credit;
Downloading a first credit value to a player tracking device;
The method of claim 1 wherein: The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credit on the gaming machine, the method comprising:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to the value of the first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the credit meter.
The method of claim 1 wherein: The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credit on the gaming machine, and the method includes:
Designating that the first voucher is a high payout lump sum;
If the first voucher is designated as lump sum payment, converting the first bonus points to credits and downloading the credits to a credit meter;
The method of claim 1 wherein: The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer and a credit measuring device that tracks a player's playable credit in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium, The variable latch has a maximum latch value, and the method includes:
Converting a value of a first bonus point associated with the first voucher into a value of a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the player tracking device;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing with game consoles,
Subtracting the premium from the credit meter;
Subtracting the maximum latch from the player tracking device;
Providing a maximum premium to the credit meter,
The method of claim 1 wherein: The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer and a credit measuring device that tracks a player's playable credit in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium, The variable latch has a maximum latch value, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point associated with the first voucher into a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the player tracking device;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing with game consoles,
Subtracting a preset threshold from the player tracking system if the player's total premium is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, and providing the threshold to the credit meter.
The method of claim 1 wherein: A method for rewarding bonus points to a player of a game machine, wherein the player has a player account on a computer, the computer is connected to the game machine and includes a database for storing a voucher, Having a variable related to the expiry date of the voucher, the method assigning a first bonus point value to the first voucher;
Assigning a first expiration date to a variable of the first voucher;
Assigning a first voucher to a player account;
A method characterized by that.   24. The method of claim 23, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   The method of claim 23, wherein the bonus points are credits.   26. The method of claim 25, wherein the bonus points are credits, and the bonus points are downloaded as credits to a game machine. The step of downloading the bonus points to the game machine includes:
Displaying a list of vouchers on the player;
A step in which the player can select at least one voucher to download;
27. The method of claim 26, comprising:   24. The method according to claim 23, wherein each voucher has a second variable indicating whether it can be cashed or not.   29. The method of claim 28, further comprising the step of specifying whether a value of the first bonus point assigned to the first voucher is cashable or not.   24. The method of claim 23, comprising: converting the first bonus point value to a first credit value; and downloading the first credit value to a gaming machine. The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the step of downloading the first credit value to the game machine is as follows:
Displaying a list of vouchers assigned to the player account on the player;
The player can select at least one voucher to download,
32. The method of claim 30, wherein: The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the method includes:
A player causing the game machine to identify itself;
Displaying a list of vouchers assigned to the player account on the player;
A step in which at least one player can select a voucher to download;
Converting bonus points associated with the selected at least one voucher into credits;
Downloading credits to a game machine,
24. The method of claim 23.   The method of claim 32, wherein identifying the player is performed by utilizing a player tracking identification card and / or a player tracking identifier. The game machine has a player identification device, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to the value of the first credit;
24. The method of claim 23, comprising downloading a first credit value to a player tracking device. The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credit on the gaming machine, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the credit meter.
24. The method of claim 23. The game machine includes a credit meter that tracks credit available to a player on the game machine, and the method includes:
Specifying whether the first voucher is a high payout lump sum;
If the first voucher is designated as a lump sum payment, converting the value of the first bonus point to credit and downloading the credit to a credit meter;
24. The method of claim 23. The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer and a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by the player in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. And the variable latch has a maximum latch value, and the method includes:
Converting a value of a first bonus point associated with the first voucher into a value of a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the player tracking device;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing with game consoles,
Subtracting the premium from the credit meter;
Subtracting the maximum bet from the player tracking device;
Providing a maximum premium to the credit measurement,
24. The method of claim 23. The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer and a credit measuring device that tracks a player's playable credit in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. The method
Converting a value of a first bonus point associated with the first voucher into a value of a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the player tracking device;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing with game consoles,
Subtracting a preset threshold from the player tracking system if the player's total premium is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, and providing the threshold to a credit meter.
24. The method of claim 23. A method of rewarding a player of a game machine with bonus points, wherein the player has a player account on a computer, the computer is connected to the game machine and includes a database for holding a voucher, and each of the vouchers Has a variable, and the method assigns the value of the first bonus point to the first voucher;
Defining in the first voucher variable whether cashing is possible or impossible;
Assigning a first voucher to a player account;
A method characterized by that.   40. The method of claim 39, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   40. The method of claim 39, wherein the bonus points are credits.   42. The method of claim 41, wherein the bonus points are credits, and the bonus points are downloaded to the game machine as credits. The step of downloading the bonus points to the game machine includes:
Displaying a list of vouchers on the player;
Having at least one player select a voucher to download,
43. The method of claim 42.   40. The method of claim 39, further comprising the step of converting the first bonus point value to a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to the gaming machine. If a player account has multiple vouchers, the steps to download credits to the game console are
Displaying a list of vouchers on the player;
The player can select at least one voucher to download,
45. The method of claim 44, wherein: The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the method includes:
A player causing the game machine to identify itself;
Displaying a list of vouchers assigned to the player account on the player;
A step in which the player can select at least one voucher to download;
Converting bonus points associated with the selected at least one voucher into credits;
Downloading credits to a game machine,
40. The method of claim 39.   The method of claim 46, wherein the step of identifying a player is performed utilizing a player tracking identification card and / or a player tracking identification number. Steps that the player can play on the game console;
If the first voucher is defined as non-cashable, creating a second voucher that holds credits remaining after the player has finished playing;
If the first voucher is defined to be cashable, the method comprises the step of giving credit to the player after the player has finished playing.
40. The method of claim 39.   40. The method of claim 39, wherein the first voucher has a second variable relating to an expiration date of the first voucher. The gaming machine has a player tracking device, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to the value of the first credit;
Downloading a first credit value to a player tracking device;
40. The method of claim 39. The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credit on the gaming machine, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to the value of the first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the credit meter.
40. The method of claim 39. The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credit on the gaming machine, and the method includes:
Specifying whether the first voucher is a high payout lump sum;
If the first voucher is designated as a lump sum payment, converting the value of the first bonus point to credit and downloading the credit to a credit meter;
40. The method of claim 39. The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer, and a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by the player in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. The variable latch has a maximum latch value, and the method includes:
Converting a value of a first bonus point associated with the first voucher into a value of a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the player tracking device;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing game machines,
Subtracting the premium from the credit meter;
Subtracting the maximum bet from the player tracking device;
Providing a maximum premium to the credit measurement,
40. The method of claim 39. The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer, and a credit measuring device that tracks a player's playable credit in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium, and the method Is
Converting a value of a first bonus point associated with the first voucher into a value of a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the player tracking device;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Subtracting a preset threshold from the player tracking system if the player's total premium is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, and providing the threshold to a credit meter.
40. The method of claim 39. A method of rewarding a player of a game machine with bonus points, wherein the game machine can accept a variable premium, the variable premium has a maximum premium value, and the player tracks the player on a computer. Have an account and the computer is connected to a game console,
Providing a first bonus point value to the player account;
Downloading a first credit value as a first credit value to a player tracking device connected to the gaming machine;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing with game consoles,
Subtracting the premium from the credit meter;
Subtracting the maximum bet from the player tracking device;
Providing a maximum premium to the credit measurement,
A method characterized by that.   56. The method of claim 55, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   56. The method of claim 55, wherein the bonus is a credit. The step of giving a value of a first bonus point to the player account includes:
Assigning a first bonus point to a first voucher (where the voucher variable holds a first value);
Assigning a first voucher to a player account;
56. The method of claim 55.   59. The method of claim 58, wherein the variable is associated with an expiration date for each voucher.   59. The method of claim 58, wherein the variable represents whether cashing is possible.   61. The method of claim 60, further comprising the step of specifying whether the value of the first bonus point assigned to the first voucher is cashable or not.   59. The method of claim 58, further comprising the step of converting the first bonus point value to a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to the gaming machine. The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the step of downloading the first credit value to the game machine includes:
Displaying a list of vouchers on the player;
The player can select at least one voucher to download,
64. The method of claim 62. The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the method includes:
A player causing the game machine to identify itself;
Displaying a list of downloadable vouchers in the player;
A step in which the player can select at least one voucher to download;
Converting bonus points associated with the selected at least one voucher into credits;
Downloading credits to a game machine,
59. The method of claim 58, wherein:   The method of claim 64, wherein the step of recognizing the player is performed using a player tracking identification card and / or a player tracking identification number.   The variable is related to an expiration date of each voucher, and each voucher has a second variable that specifies whether or not each bonus point can be cashed. Item 59. The method according to Item 58. The gaming machine has a player tracking device, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to the value of the first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the credit meter.
59. The method of claim 58, wherein: The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credit on the gaming machine, and the method includes:
Converting the value of the first bonus point to the value of the first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the credit meter.
59. The method of claim 58, wherein: The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credit on the gaming machine, and the method includes:
Specifying whether the first voucher is a high payout lump sum;
If the first voucher is designated as a lump sum payment, converting the value of the first bonus point to credit and downloading the credit to a credit meter;
59. The method of claim 58, wherein: The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer and a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by the player in the game machine, and can accept a variable premium. The hasp has a maximum hasp value and the method
Converting a value of a first bonus point associated with the first voucher into a value of a first credit;
Downloading the value of the first credit to the player tracking device;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing with game consoles,
Subtracting the premium from the credit meter;
Subtracting the maximum bet from the player tracking device;
Providing a maximum premium to the credit measurement,
59. The method of claim 58, wherein: A method of rewarding a player of a game machine with bonus points, wherein the game machine can accept a variable premium, the player has a player tracking account on the computer, and the computer has a game machine Connected to
Providing a player account with a first bonus point;
Downloading a first bonus point as a value of a first credit of a player tracking device connected to the gaming machine;
A step where the player can set up a bet;
Playing with game consoles,
Subtracting a preset threshold from the player tracking system if the player's total premium is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, and providing the threshold to a credit meter.
A method characterized by that. A game machine that the player can play,
A computer connected to the gaming machine and tracking a player account;
A database stored on the computer for storing vouchers;
A system comprising:
Each voucher has a variable, and the computer assigns the first bonus score value to the first voucher, the second bonus score value to the second voucher, and the first and second vouchers to the player account. The variable of the first voucher has a first value and the variable of the second voucher has a second value,
A system characterized by that.   The system of claim 72, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   The system of claim 72, wherein the bonus points are credits.   75. The system of claim 74, wherein the bonus points are credits and the computer is for downloading bonus points as credits to a gaming machine.   76. The system of claim 75, wherein the game console is for displaying a list of vouchers to the player and allowing the player to designate at least one voucher for download purposes.   The system of claim 72, wherein the variable is related to an expiration date of each voucher.   78. The system of claim 77, wherein the first value and the second value of the variable are the same.   78. The system of claim 77, wherein the first value and the second value are different.   73. The system of claim 72, wherein the variable represents whether cashing is possible.   81. The system of claim 80, wherein the computer is for specifying whether the value of the first bonus point assigned to the first voucher can be cashed.   73. The computer according to claim 72, wherein the computer is for converting a first bonus point value into a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to a game machine. system.   83. The system of claim 82, wherein the game machine is for displaying a list of vouchers to a player and allowing the player to designate at least one voucher for download purposes.   The gaming machine allows the player to identify itself, displays a list of downloadable vouchers to the player, and allows the player to designate at least one voucher for download purposes 73. The computer, wherein the computer is for converting bonus points associated with the selected at least one voucher into credits and downloading the credits to a gaming machine. The described system.   85. The system of claim 84, wherein player identification is performed using a player tracking identification card and / or a player tracking identification number.   The system of claim 72, wherein the gaming machine is for providing a cue through the gaming machine when a first voucher is assigned to a player account.   87. The system of claim 86, wherein the cue is at least one of a visual and an audible cue.   75. The system of claim 72, wherein the variable is related to an expiration date of each voucher, and each voucher has a second variable that specifies whether the bonus points can be cashed or not. .   The game machine includes a player tracking device, and the computer converts a first bonus point value into a first credit value and downloads the first credit value to the player tracking device. 73. The system of claim 72, wherein:   The game machine includes a credit measuring device that tracks credits that can be played by a player in the game machine, and the computer converts the value of the first bonus point into the value of the first credit, and the first credit 75. The system of claim 72, wherein the value is for downloading to a credit meter.   The game machine includes a credit measuring device that tracks credits that can be played by a player in the game machine, and the computer can designate the first certificate as a high payout lump sum, and the first certificate is a lump sum payment. The first bonus point value is converted into a first credit value, and the first credit value is downloaded to a credit measuring instrument. Item 72. The system according to Item 72.   The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to the computer and a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by the player in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. Suppose that the variable premium has a maximum premium value, and the computer converts the value of the first bonus point related to the first voucher into the value of the first credit, and the value of the first credit The game machine allows the player to set a premium and play on the game machine, subtract the premium from the credit meter, and use the maximum premium from the player tracking device. 73. The method of claim 72, for subtracting and providing a maximum premium to a credit measurement. Stem. A game machine that the player plays;
A computer connected to the game console and tracking the player account;
A database stored on the computer to store a plurality of vouchers;
A system comprising:
Each voucher has a variable relating to the expiry date of the voucher, and the computer assigns a first bonus score value to the first voucher, assigns a first expiry date to the first voucher, and the first voucher to the player Assign to an account,
A system characterized by that.   94. The system of claim 93, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   94. The system of claim 93, wherein the bonus points are credits.   96. The system of claim 95, wherein the bonus points are credits and the computer is for downloading bonus points as credits to a gaming machine.   The system according to claim 96, wherein the game machine is configured to display a voucher list on the player and allow the player to designate at least one voucher for download purposes.   94. The system of claim 93, wherein each voucher has a second variable, the second variable indicating whether or not cashing is possible.   99. The system according to claim 98, wherein the computer is for designating whether or not the value of the bonus point assigned to the first voucher can be cashed.   94. The system of claim 93, wherein the computer is for converting a first bonus point value to a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to a gaming machine. .   The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the game machine displays a list of vouchers assigned to the player account on the player so that the player can designate at least one voucher for download purposes. 101. The system of claim 100.   The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the game machine displays a list of vouchers assigned to the player account on the player and allows the player to designate at least one voucher for the purpose of download. 94. The system of claim 93, wherein the computer is for converting bonus points associated with the designated one voucher into credits and downloading the credits to a game machine.   105. The system of claim 102, wherein a player is identified using at least one of a player tracking identification card and a player tracking identification number.   The game machine includes a player tracking device, and the computer converts a first bonus point value into a first credit value and downloads the first credit value to the player tracking device. 94. The system of claim 93.   The game machine includes a credit measuring device that tracks credits that can be played by a player in the game machine, and the computer converts the value of the first bonus point into the value of the first credit, and the first credit 94. The system of claim 93, wherein the system is for downloading the value of to a credit meter.   The game machine is provided with a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by the player in the game machine. The computer designates whether the first certificate is a high payout lump sum payment, and the first certificate is a lump sum payment When designated, the first bonus point value is converted into a first credit value, and the first credit value is downloaded to a credit measuring instrument. 93. The system according to 93.   The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer, and a credit measuring device that tracks credits available to the player in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. The variable premium has a maximum premium value, and the computer converts the value of the first bonus point related to the first voucher into the value of the first credit, and converts the value of the first credit into the player Suppose that the game machine is to be downloaded to a tracking device, the game machine allows a player to set a premium and play on the game machine, subtract the premium from the credit meter, and subtract the maximum premium from the player tracking device 94. The system of claim 93, wherein the system is for providing a maximum premium to a credit measurement. A game machine that the player plays;
A computer connected to the game console and tracking the player account;
A database stored on the computer to store a plurality of vouchers;
A system comprising:
Each voucher has a variable, and the computer assigns the value of the first bonus point to the first voucher, defines whether the cash can be cashed or not, and defines the first voucher Assign it to a player account,
A system characterized by that.   109. The system of claim 108, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   109. The system of claim 108, wherein the bonus points are credits.   111. The system of claim 110, wherein the computer is for downloading bonus points as credits to a gaming machine.   111. The system of claim 111, wherein the gaming machine displays a list of player vouchers and allows the player to designate at least one voucher for download purposes.   109. The system of claim 108, wherein the computer is for converting a first bonus value to a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to a gaming machine.   114. The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the game machine displays a list of player vouchers and allows the player to select at least one voucher to download. The described system.   The player account has a plurality of vouchers, the game machine displays a list of player vouchers, and allows the player to designate at least one voucher for download purposes. 109. The system of claim 108, wherein the system is for converting bonus points associated with the selected at least one voucher into credits and downloading the credits to a gaming machine.   116. The system of claim 115, wherein the player is identified using at least one of a player tracking identification card and a player tracking identification number.   When the first voucher is defined as non-cashable, the game machine creates a second voucher that holds the remaining credits after the player has finished playing, and the first voucher can be cashed. 109. The system of claim 108, wherein the system is for giving credit to a player after the player has finished playing.   109. The system of claim 108, wherein the first voucher comprises a second variable that holds a variable relating to an expiration date of the first voucher.   The gaming machine comprises a player tracking device, the computer for converting a first bonus point value to a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to the player tracking device. 109. The system of claim 108, wherein:   The game machine includes a credit measuring device that tracks a player's playable credit in the game machine, and the computer converts a value of a first bonus point into a value of a first credit, 109. The system of claim 108, wherein the system is for downloading a credit value to a credit meter.   The game machine is provided with a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by the player in the game machine, the computer specifies whether or not the first certificate is a high payout lump sum, and the first certificate is a lump sum payment The first bonus point value is converted into a first credit value, and the first credit value is downloaded to a credit measuring instrument. 109. The system of claim 108.   The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer, and a credit measuring device that tracks a player's playable credit in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. The variable premium has a maximum premium value, and the computer converts the value of the first bonus point related to the first voucher into the value of the first credit, and converts the value of the first credit into the player The game machine is for downloading to a tracking device, allowing the player to set a premium and playing on the gaming machine, subtracting the premium from the credit meter, and subtracting the maximum premium from the player tracking device. 109. The system of claim 108, wherein the maximum premium is given to a credit measurement.   The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer, and a credit measuring device that tracks a player's playable credit in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. The computer converts the value of the first bonus point related to the first voucher into the value of the first credit, and downloads the value of the first credit to the player tracking device; The gaming machine allows the player to set a premium and play on the gaming machine, and if the total premium of the player is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, subtract a preset threshold from the player tracking system; 109. The system of claim 108, wherein the system is for providing the threshold to a credit meter. A game machine comprising a player tracking device and a credit meter;
A computer connected to the game console and tracking the player account;
A database stored on the computer for storing a plurality of vouchers,
The computer provides the player account with a first bonus point value, converts the associated first credit value to a first bonus point value, and downloads the first credit value to the player tracking device. The gaming machine allows a player to set a premium and play on the gaming machine, subtract the premium from the credit meter, subtract the maximum premium from the player tracking device, and credit the maximum premium To give to the vessel,
A system characterized by that.   127. The system of claim 124, wherein the bonus points are reward points.   125. The system of claim 124, wherein the bonus points are credits.   The computer assigns the value of the first bonus point to the first voucher and assigns the first voucher to the player account, and the variable of the first voucher holds the first value. 125. The system of claim 124, wherein:   127. The system of claim 126, wherein the variable is related to an expiration date for each voucher.   127. The system of claim 126, wherein the variable indicates whether cashing is possible.   131. The system of claim 129, wherein the computer is for designating whether the value of the first bonus point assigned to the first voucher can be cashed.   129. The system of claim 128, wherein the computer is for converting a first bonus point value to a first credit value and downloading the first credit value to a gaming machine.   The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the game machine displays a list of vouchers for a player and allows at least one voucher to be downloaded to be selected. Item 131. The system according to Item 131.   The player account has a plurality of vouchers, and the game machine enables the player to identify the game machine, displays a list of downloadable vouchers for the player, and displays at least a voucher to be downloaded. The computer is for causing one player to select, and the computer is for converting bonus points related to at least one voucher into credits and downloading the credits to a game machine. 129. The system according to item 128.   134. The system of claim 133, wherein the player is identified using at least one of a player tracking identification card and a player tracking identification number.   The variable is related to an expiration date of each voucher, and each voucher has a second variable that specifies whether or not each bonus point can be cashed. 128. The system according to 128.   The game machine includes a player tracking device, and the computer converts a first bonus point value into a first credit value and downloads the first credit value to the player tracking device. 129. The system of claim 128, wherein:   The gaming machine includes a credit meter that tracks a player's playable credits in the gaming machine, the computer converts a first bonus point value to a first credit value, and a first 129. The system of claim 128, wherein the credit value is for downloading to a credit meter.   The game machine includes a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by a player in the game machine. The computer specifies whether the first voucher is a high payout lump sum, and the first voucher is a lump sum payment. The first bonus point value is converted to a first credit value, and the first credit value is downloaded to a credit meter. 129. The system of claim 128.   The game machine includes a player tracking device connected to a computer and a credit measuring device for tracking credits that can be played by the player in the game machine, and the game machine can accept a variable premium. Suppose that the variable premium has a maximum premium value, and the computer converts the value of the first bonus point related to the first voucher into the value of the first credit, Suppose that the credit value is for downloading to a player tracking device, the game machine allows the player to set a premium and play on the game machine, subtract the premium from the credit meter, and the maximum premium to the player Claims for subtracting from a tracking device and for providing maximum credit to a credit meter 128 system as claimed. A game machine comprising a player tracking device and a credit meter;
A computer connected to the gaming machine and tracking a player account;
A database stored on the computer for storing information relating to the player account, the system comprising:
The computer provides the player account with a first bonus point value, converts the associated first credit value to a first bonus point value, and downloads the first credit value to the player tracking device. The game machine allows a player to set a premium and play on the game machine. If the total premium of the player is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, a preset threshold value is set for the player. Subtract from the tracking system and give the threshold to the credit meter;
A system characterized by that.

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