US20070004493A1

US20070004493A1 - Apparatus and method for gaming, gameplay and betting

Info

Publication number: US20070004493A1
Application number: US11/153,518
Authority: US
Inventors: Anthony Boulton
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Project Leisure Ltd
Priority date: 2004-06-15
Filing date: 2005-06-14
Publication date: 2007-01-04
Also published as: GB2415279A; GB0413305D0

Abstract

Apparatus for play by a user comprises generating means operable to randomly generate a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols, a gaming region defining a plurality of areas, each of which comprises locations relating to respective symbols within a set of symbols, and selection means to enable the selection of one or more locations in two or more areas with a single selection.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 USC 119 of United Kingdom Patent Application No. 0413305.4 filed Jun. 15, 2004.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to apparatus and a method for gaming, gameplay and betting.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention there is provided apparatus for play by a user comprising generating means operable to randomly generate a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols, a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations each relating to a respective symbol within a set of symbols, and selection means to enable the selection of one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection.
Preferably the selection means enables a user to select one or more locations within an area independently of any selection in that or another area. Preferably the selection means enables a user to select a plurality of locations within each area.
Preferably the selection means provides for selection of a plurality of locations within an area with a single selection preferably where said locations are mutually adjacent. Preferably the selection means enables selection of adjacent locations when a user selects a boundary between said locations.
Preferably the number of areas in the gaming region is the same as the number of symbols generated.
The selection means may comprise one or more sensors operable to sense which location(s) have been selected by a user. The selection means may comprise one or more sensors operable to sense contact by a user, such as a touch sensitive screen, or to sense location of an object, such as a counter, betting chip or the like on the gaming region by a user. The sensor(s) may be heat, light, weight and/or touch sensitive and are preferably electrical or electronic in operation.
Alternatively the identification of selected locations may be made visually by an operative of the apparatus, such as a croupier.
Preferably the selection means enables a user to make at least the same number of selections, per play of the apparatus, as the number of symbols generated. Preferably the apparatus comprises means to determine the number of selections a user can make in any one game, which is preferably determined according to the amount of credit in the apparatus.
Preferably each location in an area comprises a representation of a respective symbol from a set of symbols. Preferably each area has a complete set of symbols associated therewith. Preferably each area has the same number of locations as there are symbols in the respective set of symbols and each location relates to its own symbol within the set.
Preferably the generating means is operable to randomly generate a symbol corresponding to one symbol from a predetermined set of symbols. Preferably each symbol is generated independently of the others. Alternatively, a reference set is provided which comprises an index of all possible symbol combinations that could be produced using one symbol from each of the predetermined sets of symbols, and the generating means is operable to randomly select one combination from the reference set.
Preferably each set of symbols is the same. The symbols in each set may comprise a sequence of numbers, which may be represented in numerical order in the respective area.
Each symbol, may have two identifiable characteristics, which are both represented in the location relating to that symbol in the respective area, whereby to provide for enhanced gaming options. Each symbol may have a colour characteristic associated therewith. Preferably the symbols alternate with regard to their coloured characteristic along the sequence of symbols. Preferably one of said symbols has its own colour not shared with any other symbol in the set.
The generating means may comprise a plurality of reels, each of which has a set of symbols therearound, and each of which relates to an area. Preferably the symbols and the sequence of the symbols on each reel is the same as the symbols and the sequence of the locations relating to the symbols in the corresponding area.
Preferably each reel is aligned with the associated area on the gaming region to facilitate play.
Alternatively, or in addition, the generating means may comprise a plurality of roulette-type wheels, one or more roulette wheels comprising a plurality of balls, means to select balls or other objects from sets of the same bearing symbols, computer means or any other suitable means for randomly generating symbols from predetermined sets of symbols. The reels, wheels, objects, balls etc. may be real, virtual, simulated or combinations thereof.
The apparatus may comprise further gaming regions at which a user can select defined locations relating to predetermined combinations of symbols.
The apparatus may comprise a further gaming region which defines two locations relating to each set of symbols, one of said locations relating to a part of the set of symbols and the other said location to another other part. Preferably each location relates to a part of equal size to the other in a set, according to one or both characteristics of the symbol. Preferably each location comprises two sub-locations, one relating to one characteristic of that part and the other to the other characteristic. Selection means generally as described above is provided to enable sub-locations to be selected together by a single selection, or independently.
The apparatus may comprise a still further gaming region which defines a plurality of still further locations relating to predetermined groups of symbols within a set of symbols and/or between sets of symbols. The still further locations may relate to groups of symbols in more than one and desirably all the areas. Preferably one or more, and desirably each group comprises more than two symbols in a set. Preferably selection means, generally as above, is provided to enable selection of said still further locations by a user during use.
Preferably the apparatus comprises means to calculate the sum of symbols generated where said symbols have a numerical value characteristic. The apparatus may provide a sum gaming region comprising sum gaming locations each relating to a predetermined sum figure or figures. Preferably each sum gaming location is selectable by a user, and may relate to a range of sum figures.
The apparatus preferably further comprises processing means operable to compare symbols generated by the generating means and symbols relating to (a) location(s) selected by a user in play and to determine whether the player has successfully predicted the symbols generated. Preferably the processing means also determines the probability of a user selecting the symbols generated in the light of the locations selected and determines any reward or pay out to the user, preferably according to a predetermined fixed-odds system. Preferably the apparatus comprises reward dispensing means, such as credit, money, ticket, voucher or tokens dispensing means for dispensing reward to a user.
Preferably the apparatus is actuated upon insertion of appropriate credit by a user, which credit may be in the form of tokens, money, credit cards or other payment means. Alternatively credit may be made to the apparatus remotely, such as electronically. For example a user could give credit to a terminal or a person remotely positioned from the apparatus and that terminal or person then arranges for appropriate credit to be provided in the apparatus. Preferably the number of locations selectable during play is determined by the amount of credit in the apparatus.
Further according to the present invention there is provided a method for a user to play a game comprising the steps of providing a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations relating to respective symbols within a set of symbols, providing selection means to enable a user to select one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection, randomly generating a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols; comparing the symbols generated and the locations selected, and determining whether the user made a successful prediction in relation to the symbols generated.
A user may select a plurality of locations within each area. Preferably the user can select more than one location within an area with a single selection. Preferably a user can make a selection in one area independently of any selection in that or another area.
Preferably a user can select a plurality of locations where said locations are mutually adjacent by a single selection. Preferably a user can select a plurality of adjacent locations by selecting a boundary between the locations.
Preferably a user selects a location according to the symbol represented on that location.
Preferably a generated symbol is generated using random symbol generating means substantially as described above. Preferably symbols are generated having two identifiable characteristics, such as a numerical value and colour. Preferably a user makes a selection according to his choice of one or both of the characteristics of a symbol at a given location.
Preferably locations can be selected which relate to predetermined groups and/or combinations of symbols at further, still further and sum gaming regions as described above.
Preferably the method according to the present invention comprises the use of apparatus as described above.
The invention also provides a computer program for performing the steps of the method as above.
The invention also provides a memory device embodying the computer program as described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic cross-section of gaming apparatus according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is an illustration of a gaming screen of the apparatus of FIG. 1 according to the present invention; and
FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating steps of the method and use of the apparatus in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings and in particular FIGS. 1 and 2, apparatus 10 for play by a user comprises generating means 12 operable to randomly generate a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined sets of symbols, a gaming region 14 defining a plurality of areas 16 a, 16 b, 16 c, each of which comprises locations 18 a (a-m), 18 b (a-m) and 18 c (a-m) respectively, relating to respective symbols within a set of symbols, and selection means to enable the selection of one or more locations in two or more areas with a single selection.
In more detail, the apparatus 10 comprises a cabinet or body 20 which houses the various components as will be discussed. The embodiment described is only one particular embodiment, particularly suitable for use in casinos, gaming arcades, betting shops and for other public use. It will be appreciated however that the apparatus could take any suitable form, such as a computer console, personal games console, a board game, a gaming table, etc.
In this embodiment, the apparatus 10 comprises means 21 of generally conventional arrangement to enable a user to insert credit into the apparatus 10 to activate the apparatus for use. Other generally conventional components of the apparatus 20 include pay out means shown diagrammatically at 22 which provide for the payout of any prize or reward achieved by a user, in any suitable format, such as coins, tokens, tickets, vouchers, credits or other prizes.
A gaming screen 24 is provided on the cabinet 20 to face a player during use. The gaming screen according to this particular embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 2.
The gaming screen comprises a gaming region 14 defining the three areas 16 a, b, c in the form of columns each of which comprises a sequence of thirteen locations 18 a (a-m), 18 b (a-m), 18 c (a-m). The number of areas 18 a, b, c, is the same as the number of symbols generated Each area 16 a, 16 b and 16 c comprises a complete set of symbols, which in this embodiment comprises thirteen consecutive whole numbers from 0-12, in numerical order, each number being located in a respective location 18 a (a-m), 18 b (a-m) and 18 c (a-m) within each respective area. Corresponding numbers are aligned between the respective areas 16 a, b, c.
A second characteristic is associated with each symbol, which in this embodiment is a colour. All the odd numbers are associated with the colour red (illustrated by letter ‘R’). It is preferred that the background around each symbol (in this embodiment the ellipse) is coloured red to depict this. All the even numbers are associated with the colour black (‘B’), and again the respective ellipses are coloured accordingly. The symbol “0” is associated with the colour green (G), and the ellipse therearound is represented in a green colour.
These colours are specifically chosen as they are the colours of a conventional roulette wheel, and using these colours provides some familiarity to a user with certain aspects of the present game and apparatus and thereby assisting a user in understanding and playing the novel apparatus and method of the present invention.
The random symbol generating means 12 comprises processing means operable to randomly select one symbol from a predetermined set of symbols. The means 12 is located remotely from the rest of the apparatus 10 as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1. The means 12 may be located remotely, but within the establishment in which the apparatus is sited, or outside the establishment and connected to the apparatus by appropriate connection means such as an ISDN line or the like.
In this embodiment, the generating means 12 randomly generates a single number from each of three, identical sets of numbers comprising the integers 0-12 inclusive and the three generated numbers are displayed in the generated symbol display region 26 of the gaming screen 24 so that each clearly relates to a respective area 16 a, b, c. In this embodiment, the numbers are displayed as being on virtual or simulated reels 27 a, b, c, on the screen 24 with an indicator 28 provided to identify the win line on the reels. A reel is aligned with a respective area 16 a, b, c. It will be appreciated however that the reels could be real, tangible reels and associated actuation mechanism would be provided.
In FIG. 2, the generating means 12 has randomly generated three green zeros.
Once all the necessary symbols have been generated, or during generation, the generating means 12 sends signals, shown diagrammatically along the dotted line 30 to the region 26 for the display of the symbols in the region 26. Corresponding signals are also sent as shown diagrammatically along the line 32 to a processor 34. It will be appreciated that appropriate signals could be sent from the generating means 12 to the processor 34 which in turn sends signals to the region 26, without any direct communication between the means 12 and the region 26.
The gaming region 14 provides for the selection by a user of at least one location in each area 16 a, b, c. Sensing means 44 is provided to detect which location(s) has been selected by a user during play. In this embodiment, the gaming region 14 comprises a touch sensitive screen having sensing means 44 of generally known technology sensitive to the touch of the screen by a user.
When a user selects a location 18 a(a-m), 18 b (a-m), 18 c(a-m), a signal is sent from the sensing means 44 to the processor 34, as shown diagrammatically along the line 36. It will be appreciated that provision can be made for a user to de-select one or more locations selected, using the “CANCEL LAST” and “CANCEL ALL” buttons 38 a, 38 b.
An important characteristic of the present invention is that the apparatus 10 enables a user to select one or more locations in different areas 16 a, b, c with any one selection. This enables the user to place so called “split bets”.
A user can select two locations within one area by touching the boundary between the two locations. When the user makes a selection, a location is highlighted perhaps by way of illumination. When a user touches a boundary between adjacent locations in adjacent areas, the two locations joined by the boundary are likewise highlighted to show the users selection. The user can choose to select two locations in each area, or he may select two locations in adjacent areas or both, using a single selection. For example, if a player contacts the boundary between region 18 ab and 18 bb, then both locations 18 ab and 18 bb will be selected with one selection. As a further example, if a player selects the boundary between locations 18 af and 18 ag then both of these locations are selected with one selection. If a player selects the boundary between locations 18 ab, 18 bb, 18 ac and 18 bc, by contacting the screen at the point where the boundaries of the four locations meet, then those four locations will be selected and highlighted by a single selection.
An alternative or additional way of indicating a selection is for an image to be displayed at the point of selection. Such an image could be an image of a betting chip, preferably displaying the value of the chip (see later).
Generally, the number of selections a player can make in any one game is determined by the amount of credit within the apparatus 10 and the value of any wager or bet he wished to place on each selection. Furthermore, the number and nature of selections made by a user will determine the probability of the user successfully predicting the symbols that will be generated by the generating means and displayed in the region 26. The greater the probability of a user making a successful prediction the more likely he is to achieve a win and generally the smaller the potential reward or “pay out” that will be dispensed by the apparatus 10.
In use, and in accordance with the method of the present invention, a player activates the apparatus 10 by inserting appropriate credit via the credit input means 21, which the apparatus accepts and recognises according to known means. The amount of credit inserted will determine the number of selections a player can make in any one game, taking into account the value of any wager or bet the player wishes to place on each selection.
Once the apparatus 10 is activated, the player selects a value of wager he wishes to use to place on a selection. An area 29 on the screen displays the range of values of betting chip a player can use and thus wagers he can place. Provision may be made for the value of a selected chip to be increased according to the number of times a player selects that chip in any one selection process. To make his selection of chip and hence the value of wager to be placed a player touches the relevant chip image in the area 29. If sufficient credit is available in the apparatus the chip selection is successful, and the player now makes his selection of location(s) by touching the screen in the gaming region at the point of desired selection and preferably the location(s) selected are highlighted to identify the selections made as described above. If a player wishes to cancel a selection he can do so using one of the ‘cancel’ keys 38 a, 38 b.
The player may then select another chip and make a further selection, and then another and so on, until he has made all the selections he wishes and/or the credit in the apparatus will allow.
The player is essentially trying to predict which three symbols, if not all, will be generated. If the player chooses to make “split bets” by selecting a plurality of adjacent locations within and/or between areas 16 a, b and c, then he will increase the probability of a single selection successfully predicting one more of the symbols generated by the generating means 12 and therefore increase the probability of a win, but the potential reward or payout will be reduced accordingly.
As mentioned above, it is an important feature of the present invention for a user to be able to make “split bets” of this kind. This considerably increases the complexity and sophistication of the game, the betting odds and permutations and thus the interest to a user.
Once a player has made his desired selections, he formally inputs these by pressing the input key 42 and the generating means 12 then randomly generates three symbols, one from each set corresponding to the set of symbols comprised in the respective area 16 a, 16 b and 16 c. In this embodiment the symbols in each set are the same, but they could be different.
Once the random symbols have been generated they are displayed in the display region 26 for the user to visually compare and determine whether he has been successful in selecting the appropriate locations in the respective area 16 a, 16 b, 16 c relative to the symbol generated in relation to that area.
Signals relating to the symbols generated are sent from the random symbol generating means 12 to the processor 34. Signals are also sent from the sensing means 44, associated with the touch screen 24 to the processor 34. Using these signals, the processor 34 compares symbols generated by the generating means with those selected by the user and determines whether the user was successful in predicting what symbols would be generated in relation to which area. If the user has been successful, then the processor 34 sends an appropriate signal, shown diagrammatically along the broken line 46, to the pay out means 22 which dispenses appropriate reward and payment to a collection pocket 48 on the outside of the apparatus, accessible to a user.
In its simplest form the symbols comprise numbers or other single characteristic which is used to identify that symbol. A user therefore attempts to predict which symbols will be generated according to that single characteristic. However, as described above each symbol may have more than one characteristics, such as numerical value and colour, and the apparatus and method may provide means for the user to make predictions in relation to one or more, or all of said characteristics.
To illustrate use by example with reference to FIG. 2, if a player has selected location 18 aa with one selection using a betting chip of value £10, and locations 18 bb and 18 cb using a single, split-bet selection using a betting chip of £5 and the location 18 ca and 18 cb with a single split-bet using a betting chip of £2, the credit required in the apparatus to make all three selections has to be at least £17. Upon confirmation of the selections made, the generating means generates three symbols, in this example each relating to the number “0”.
The player therefore successfully predicted the symbol selected in relation to area 16 a. The probability of achieving this was 12:1 and so his reward or win will be £120 (12× the value of his wager). With regard to the second selection of locations 18 bb and 18 cb he was unsuccessful in predicting the symbols generated in relation to areas 16 b, 16 c and so won nothing with this selection. With his final selection of locations 18 ca, 18 cb, the player successfully predicted the symbol generated in relation to area 16 c, using a split bet. The probability of him successfully predicting the symbol generated in this example is 6:1 and so his win is £12 (6× value of his wager).
His selections and related wins or losses are independent of one another.
As can be seen in FIG. 2, a further gaming region 50 is provided at which a user can select one or more further locations each relating to a predetermined group of symbols. The further gaming region 50 comprises three areas 50 a, 50 b, 50 c each associated with a respective generated number, and therefore each area 16 a, 16 b, 16 c. Each area 50 a, 50 b, 50 c has four locations. Two of said locations (52 aa, 52 ab), (52 ba, 52 bb), (52 ca, 52 cb) relate to a group of symbols within the set of symbols in each area 16 a, 16 b, 16 c. In this particular embodiment, location 52 aa relates to numbers 1-6, location 52 ab relates to numbers 7-12, and both relate to area 16 a. Location 52 ba relates to numbers 1-6 and location 52 bb relates to numbers 7-12 and area 16 b, and location 52 ca relates to numbers 1-6 and 52 cb relates to numbers 7-12 and area 16 c.
The other two locations 54 aa, 54 ab 54 ba, 54 bb, 54 ca and 54 cb in each respective area 50 a, b, c relate to the second characteristic, in this embodiment the colour, of the numbers 1-12 within each set. Therefore, the region 54 aa relates to the colour red (R), 54 ab relates to the colour black (B). Similarly location 54 ba relates to the colour red and 54 bb to the colour black and 54 ca to the colour red and 54 cb to the colour black in respect of area 16 b and 16 c respectively.
The gaming region 54 therefore provides an additional region at which a user can place bets or predictions by selecting one or more of said locations 52, 54.
For example, if a user selects locations 54 aa, 54 ba and 54 cb, and the colour characteristics of the symbols that are randomly generated during that game are red, red, black respectively, then the user has achieved three wins, although each is effectively independent of the others.
By way of further example, if a player selects location 52 aa, 52 bb and 52 cb, then if the random symbol generated in relation to area 16 a is one of numbers 1-6, the symbol generated in relation to area 16 b are one of numbers 7-12 and the symbol generated in respective of area 16 c is one of numbers 7-12, then the user will have again predicted correctly in relation to all areas and will have achieved a win. However, if a player selects the same locations 51 aa, 52 bb and 52 cb, then if the respective numbers generated are 2, 2 and 8, the player will have only successfully predicted in relation to area 16 c and will only receive a single win accordingly. As before, the player can select the value of chip and hence wager to place on each selection and the win will be determined by the probability of that selection being correct multiplied by the value of the wager or bet placed on that selection.
It will be appreciated that the probability of predicting a win per selection is greater in this region 50 than in the region 14 and therefore the potential win rewards would generally be less than those achievable by play in region 14.
As with play in region 14, split bets can be placed by a user by selecting a plurality of adjacent locations by selecting the boundary between those locations. In the region 50 however it is not envisaged that split bets would be normally appropriate between areas, although this possibility may be provided.
It is also possible for a user to make selections in both of the gaming regions 14 and the further gaming region 50, provided appropriate credit is available where credit is required.
A third gaming region 56 may be provided which provides a further plurality of selectable locations 60 a, 60 b, 60 c relating to further predetermined groups of symbols. Location 60 a relates to numbers 1-4, and enables a user, upon selecting location 60 a to place, with a single selection, a prediction that the number generated in each area 16 a, b, c will be one of the numbers 1, 2, 3 or 4. This region therefore enables a player to make a single selection across all of the areas 16 a, b, c.
Similarly, selection of location 60 b will enable a single selection to be used to predict that the numbers generated will each be between 5 and 8, and for location 60 c, for numbers between 9 and 12. It is also a possibility that split bets can be placed between adjacent locations 60 a, 60 b and 60 b and 60 c, by selecting the boundary between those respective locations. Clearly, the amount of any win achieved by a user resulting from successfully predicting outcomes based upon selection of the location 60 a, 60 b, 60 c will generally be significantly less than the wins awarded to successful predictions during play of region 14, per unit of value of selection.
The apparatus may further provide means to calculate the sum of the numerical value of each symbol generated by the generation means 12 during play. The sum figure is preferably displayed, and in this embodiment it is displayed on the win line indicator 28. Calculating the sum of the numbers generated provides a further opportunity for a further wager, selection or bet to be placed by a user.
In this regard further locations 62, 64, 66 and 68 are provided on the gaming screen 24, each of which relates to a range of sum figures. For instance, location 62 relates to the sum figures of between 1 and 9, location 64 to figures between 10 and 18, location 66 to figures between 19 and 27 and for location 68 for the total to be between 28 and 36.
A player may therefore choose to select one or more of these locations 62, 64, 66, 68 as a further opportunity of predicting a win.
Two further locations 70 and 72 may be provided to enable a user to place a bet on whether all of the symbols generated will have a particular colour characteristic, red (location 70) or black (location 72).
The selection in all of the regions, in the present embodiment, is by appropriate contact by a user with the touch sensitive screen 24. A user can make selection in any one or more of the regions, generally provided sufficient credit is available in the apparatus.
It will be appreciated that various embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. The number of symbols in a set of symbols can be varied, and it is possible that the number and/or nature of symbols may be different in respective sets. The number of symbols generated by the generating means may be greater than, or less than, the three indicated in the present embodiment, and the nature of the generating means 12 can take any suitable form. The symbols may have numerical characteristics and/or other identifiable characteristics. The invention is described above as a gaming apparatus of electrical or electronic nature. It is within the scope of the present invention to provide a gaming table or board comprising the gaming region, and/or symbol generating means manually operable to generate symbols, such operation preferably being conducted by a croupier or similar, or a player. The selection of locations and the value of wagers can be done using tangible objects such as chips and the detection of selections and determination of wins carried out by a croupier or other operative.
The embodiment described above presents the generated numbers on virtual reels. An alternative embodiment may be mechanical reels which in certain circumstances may provide greater aesthetic appeal and enjoyment to a user. Alternative or additional number generating means can be provided, such as means to randomly select balls or objects bearing appropriate symbols, from one or more sets of balls or objects. Such means may include means to randomly select such objects by blowing them to a selection position. A further number generating arrangement may comprise a plurality of roulette wheels, or wheels based upon roulette wheels, such wheels possibly comprising a plurality of roulette balls, and may be tangible or virtual. The generating means may be located remotely from the rest of the apparatus or as described above within the body 20.
Alternatively or in addition the generating means is operable to randomly generate a predetermined combination of symbols from a reference set comprising all possible symbol combinations that could be produced using one symbol from each of the predetermined sets of symbols. This enables the generating means to make only one random generation which could produce a combination of symbols, each symbol with that combination relating to a location in a respective area on the gaming region.
The means for selecting locations may comprise sensing means to sense the location of objects, such as tokens which may be placed at the appropriate location by a user. The sensing means may comprise touch, light, heat, and/or weight sensor(s). Identification of selection and/or determination of whether a win has been achieved and the value of any win, may be carried out by a human operative, such as a croupier, especially if the apparatus is provided for use in a casino or similar environment.
As can be seen from FIG. 2, the results of the last twenty games, or indeed any number of games predetermined, can be displayed at a display area 74 to provide information to a user.
Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

1. Apparatus for play by a user comprising generating means operable to randomly generate a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols, a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations each relating to a respective symbol within a set of symbols, and selection means to enable the selection of one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection.

2. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the selection means enables a user to select one or more locations within an area independently of any selection in that or another area.

3. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the selection means enables a user to select a plurality of locations within each area.

4. Apparatus as claimed in claim 3, in which the selection means provides for selection of a plurality of locations within an area with a single selection.

5. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4, in which the selection means provides for selection of a plurality of locations within an area with a single selection where said locations are mutually adjacent.

6. Apparatus as claimed in claim 5, in which the selection means enables selection of adjacent locations when a user selects a boundary between said locations.

7. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the number of areas in the gaming region is the same as the number of symbols generated.

8. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the selection means comprises one or more sensors operable to sense which location(s) have been selected by a user.

9. Apparatus as claimed in claim 8, in which the selection means comprises one or more sensors operable to sense contact by a user, such as a touch sensitive screen.

10. Apparatus as claimed in claim 8, in which the selection means comprises one or more sensors operable to sense location of an object, such as a counter, betting chip or the like on the gaming region by a user.

11. Apparatus as claimed in claim 9, in which the sensor(s) are heat, light, weight and/or touch sensitive.

12. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the identification of selected locations is made visually by an operative of the apparatus, such as a croupier.

13. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the selection means enables a user to make at least the same number of selections, per play of the apparatus, as the number of symbols generated.

14. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus comprises means to determine the number of selections a user can make in any one game.

15. Apparatus as claimed in claim 14, in which the means determines the number of selections according to the amount of credit in the apparatus.

16. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which each location in an area comprises a representation of a respective symbol from a set of symbols.

17. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which each area has a complete set of symbols associated therewith.

18. Apparatus as claimed in claim 16, in which each area has the same number of locations as there are symbols in the respective set of symbols and each location relates to its own symbol within the set.

19. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the generating means is operable to randomly generate a symbol corresponding to one symbol from a predetermined set of symbols.

20. Apparatus as claimed in claim 19, in which each symbol is generated independently of the others.

21. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which a reference set is provided which comprises an index of all possible symbol combinations that could be produced using one symbol from each of the predetermined sets of symbols, and the generating means is operable to randomly select one combination from the reference set.

22. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which each set of symbols is the same.

23. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the symbols in each set comprise a sequence of numbers.

24. Apparatus as claimed in claim 23, in which the symbols are represented in numerical order in the respective area.

25. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which each symbol has two identifiable characteristics, which are both represented in the location relating to that symbol in the respective area, whereby to provide for enhanced gaming options.

26. Apparatus as claimed in claim 25, in which each symbol has a colour characteristic associated therewith.

27. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26, in which the symbols alternate with regard to their colour characteristic along the sequence of symbols.

28. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26, in which one of said symbols has its own colour not shared with any other symbol in the set.

29. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the generating means comprises a plurality of reels, each of which has a set of symbols therearound, and each of which relates to an area.

30. Apparatus as claimed in claim 29, in which the symbols and the sequence of the symbols on each reel are the same as the symbols and the sequence of the locations relating to the symbols in the corresponding area.

31. Apparatus as claimed in claim 29, in which each reel is aligned with the associated area on the gaming region to facilitate play.

32. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the generating means comprises a plurality of roulette-type wheels, one or more roulette wheels comprising a plurality of balls, means to select balls or other objects from sets of the same bearing symbols, computer means or any other suitable means for randomly generating symbols from predetermined sets of symbols.

33. Apparatus as claimed in claim 29, in which the reels, wheels, objects, balls etc. are real, virtual, simulated or combinations thereof.

34. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus comprises further gaming regions at which a user can select defined locations relating to predetermined combinations of symbols.

35. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus comprises a further gaming region which defines two locations relating to each set of symbols, one of said locations relating to a part of the set of symbols and the other said location to another part.

36. Apparatus as claimed in claim 35, in which each location relates to a part of equal size to the other in a set, according to one or both characteristics of the symbol.

37. Apparatus as claimed in claim 35, in which each location comprises two sub-locations, one relating to one characteristic of that part and the other to the other characteristic.

38. Apparatus as claimed in claim 37, in which selection means generally as described above is provided to enable sub-locations to be selected together by a single selection, or independently.

39. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus comprises a still further gaming region which defines a plurality of still further locations relating to predetermined groups of symbols within a set of symbols and/or between sets of symbols.

40. Apparatus as claimed in claim 39, in which the still further locations relate to groups of symbols in more than one and desirably all the areas.

41. Apparatus as claimed in claim 39, in which one or more, and desirably each group comprises more than two symbols in a set.

42. Apparatus as claimed in claim 39, in which selection means, generally as above, is provided to enable selection of said still further locations by a user during use.

43. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus comprises means to calculate the sum of symbols generated where said symbols have a numerical value characteristic.

44. Apparatus as claimed in claim 43, in which the apparatus provides a sum gaming region comprising sum gaming locations each relating to a predetermined sum figure or figures.

45. Apparatus as claimed in claim 44, in which each sum gaming location is selectable by a user.

46. Apparatus as claimed in claim 44, in which each sum gaming location relates to a range of sum figures.

47. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus further comprises processing means operable to compare symbols generated by the generating means and symbols relating to (a) location(s) selected by a user in play and to determine whether the player has successfully predicted the symbols generated.

48. Apparatus as claimed in claim 47, in which the processing means also determines the probability of a user selecting the symbols generated in the light of the locations selected and determines any reward or pay out to the user.

49. Apparatus as claimed in claim 48, in which the processing means determines any reward or pay-out according to a predetermined fixed-odds system.

50. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus comprises reward dispensing means, such as credit, money, ticket, voucher or token dispensing means for dispensing reward to a user.

51. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the apparatus is actuated upon insertion of appropriate credit by a user, which credit may be in the form of tokens, money, credit cards or other payment means.

52. Apparatus as claimed in claim 51, in which credit is made to the apparatus remotely, such as electronically.

53. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, in which the number of locations selectable during play is determined by the amount of credit in the apparatus.

54. A method for a user to play a game comprising the steps of:

providing a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations relating to respective symbols within a set of symbols,

providing selection means to enable a user to select one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection,

randomly generating a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols;

comparing the symbols generated and the locations selected, and

determining whether the user made a successful prediction in relation to the symbols generated.

55. A method as claimed in claim 54, in which a user selects a plurality of locations within each area.

56. A method as claimed in claim 55, in which the user can select more than one location within an area with a single selection.

57. A method as claimed in claim 55, in which a user can make a selection in one area independently of any selection in that or another area.

58. A method as claimed in claim 54, in which a user can select a plurality of locations where said locations are mutually adjacent by a single selection.

59. A method as claimed in claim 58, in which a user can select a plurality of adjacent locations by selecting a boundary between the locations.

60. A method as claimed in claim 54, in which a user selects a location according to the symbol represented on that location.

61. A method as claimed in claim 54, in which a generated symbol is generated using generating means operable to randomly generate a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols, a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations each relating to a respective symbol within a set of symbols, and selection means to enable the selection of one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection.

62. A method as claimed in claim 61, in which symbols are generated having two identifiable characteristics, such as a numerical value and colour.

63. A method as claimed in claim 62, in which a user makes a selection according to his choice of one or both of the characteristics of a symbol at a given location.

64. A method as claimed in claim 54, in which locations can be selected which relate to predetermined groups and/or combinations of symbols at further, still further and sum gaming regions defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations each relating to a respective symbol within a set of symbols.

65. The use of apparatus for play by a user comprising generating means operable to randomly generate a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols, a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations each relating to a respective symbol within a set of symbols, and selection means to enable the selection of one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection.

66. A computer program for performing the steps of the method for a user to play a game comprising the steps of providing a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations relating to respective symbols within a set of symbols, providing selection means to enable a user to select one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection, randomly generating a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols; comparing the symbols generated and the locations selected, and determining whether the user made a successful prediction in relation to the symbols generated.

67. A memory device embodying the computer program for performing the steps of the method for a user to play a game comprising the steps of providing a gaming region defining a plurality of areas each of which comprises locations relating to respective symbols within a set of symbols, providing selection means to enable a user to select one or more locations in two or more of the areas with a single selection, randomly generating a plurality of symbols, each symbol being one in a predetermined set of symbols; comparing the symbols generated and the locations selected, and determining whether the user made a successful prediction in relation to the symbols generated.