WO2012100353A1

WO2012100353A1 - Game apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2012100353A1
Application number: PCT/CA2012/050049
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lori DENTON; Lyle Scrymgeour; Nancy Bettcher; Douglas Pollard; Andrew Wojtowicz; Jennifer Westbury; Riva Richard
Original assignee: Pollard Banknote Limited Partnership
Priority date: 2011-01-28
Filing date: 2012-01-27
Publication date: 2012-08-02
Also published as: AU2011253671A1; AU2011253678A1; CA2759853A1; AU2011253676A1; AU2011253675A1

Abstract

A lottery game apparatus includes a set of lottery tickets each printed with an instant win game and information defining a number of points awarded to the player in addition to or as an alternative to a prize for the game together with a programmed computer providing access to a web site associated with the set of tickets. The computer program provides communication through the internet for the player, and program components for registration of details of the player entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player for entry by the registered player of a points entry number from a played ticket so as to define for each player an account of a points total held by that player and a plurality of games to be played by the player using the points.

Description

GAME APPARATUS

This invention relates to a game apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

US Published application 2008/0174068 (York) published July 24 2008 discloses a method for conducting a lottery that offers players who lose the opportunity to use their losing lottery tickets to enter one or more additional lotteries, a replay program. This proposes that the player will be awarded points which can be used in a second lottery game which can be played on line.

US Published application 2008/0045299 (Bennett) published July 24 2008 and assigned to Scientific Games discloses a system and method for providing an additional or end-of-game drawing to players of a lottery game. In one embodiment, unique validation codes provided on lottery tickets can be encrypted using an algorithm and used to create a record of such encrypted codes. A player then participates in the lottery and subsequently submits the validation code from the ticket to a lottery provider. The lottery provider applies the algorithm to the submitted validation code to create another encryption code for comparison with the record of encrypted codes. In the event a match is found, the player is entered into a second- chance or end of game drawing.

The above two patent applications relate to participation in second chance draws/lottery style play, which are entered on the internet following purchase of an instant ticket. It appears they are targeted primarily for customers, who did not win, although the losing aspect is more strongly defined in the first application. In both cases, after a player has completed the registration process on their first entry or signed in, if they are pre-registered, they are requested to enter the validation or other ticket identification number and game number as a means of identifying the ticket they are holding. With the second application, the number entered is encrypted and compared to a list of valid numbers from that game and if a match occurs the entry is accepted. For the first application, there is no mention in the claims of a comparison to a supplied list. Once the entry is accepted it is assigned points to be used in subsequent drawings. Points awarded after acceptance of the entry are based on the price of the ticket.

Also in US 7424617 of Yahoo there is disclosed a points based system which employs encryption during the entry phase. Points are redeemed for purchases on-line. The example used is for bottle caps.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one object of the invention to provide a lottery game apparatus which provides to the player the opportunity for the accumulation of player points for purposes of enhancing the playing experience.

According to the invention there is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets;

a programmed computer;

each ticket of the set of lottery tickets comprising:

a substrate having printed thereon, in one or more areas, game data covered by a covering which can be removed by a player to expose the game data;

information on the substrate identifying a number of points awarded to the player in respect of the ticket;

the programed computer comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

a program component allowing communication with a player to enter the site from a remote terminal;

a program component allowing entry into a data base of the number of points awarded by the respective ticket;

a program component arranged to maintain an account of a points total held by a player by adding points awarded by the tickets played by that player and deducting points used by the player on the site;

the site including a plurality of games to be played by the player using the points.

Preferably the programed computer includes information defining, for each of the tickets of the set, the number of points awarded by that respective ticket. In this way the points awarded can be checked by the computer when entered by the player from a ticket. However the system may enter a points awarded from the ticket by an encoded value entered by the player as an entry code or entered automatically by scanning a bar code readable on the ticket.

Preferably the programed computer includes a program component allowing entry by the registered player of a points entry number from a played ticket.

Preferably the substrate or ticket includes an indication printed for the player of a number of points awarded to the player on that ticket. However this is not essential and the points awarded may only become clear when the player enters the site.

Preferably the exposed game data revealed by removing the covering includes a points entry number identifying the ticket.

Preferably the game data on each ticket defines an instant win game revealing whether the player is a loser or a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize. Preferably the covering is a scratch-off layer typical with instant win tickets but it can be provided by other types of removable covering. Also the game can be other types of game such as a simple draw, a game of no prize value or even probability type games where the result is determined by the actions of the player.

Preferably the site is a web site and communication through the internet is provided to that site. However the present invention contemplates other forms of communication and that the site has characteristics suitable for that mode of communication.

The games concerned are preferably instant win type games where the result is entirely predetermined, since such games are generally preferred in a lottery situation in order to ensure that the total winnings is predetermined. However the present invention is not limited to the type of game to be played and can include probability or other games which may include game indicia covered by a scratch-off coating.

The construction may also be used in situations where the main objective is for other purposes than gambling such as in promotional games or games of fun for children or others where no gambling or prizes are involved.

Many such tickets are used directly in a lottery situation so that the tickets have no other relevance other than the playing of the lottery or game by which the player may win monetary or other prizes as part of the lottery or gaming situation.

However more attention has been recently given to the use of such tickets as promotional items used by manufacturers of other products to enhance the sale of the product.

The game data including the instant win games and the points information can be located in a single area on the ticket covered by a single scratch- off layer or can be in separate areas in which case they can be covered by the same scratch-off layer or by separate scratch-off layers. The areas can be on the same side or on different sides of the substrate.

Preferably the number of points awarded is independent of the prize.

Preferably points are awarded on both winning and losing tickets.

Preferably the number of points awarded by the tickets is different on different tickets and the number is revealed only on exposing the game data. This makes the points awarded also a part of the game which enhances the player experience even in a situation where the ticket is a losing ticket with no prize awarded.

Preferably the number of points awarded is set out in a Player's Point area, which is part of the game play area and covered by the same scratchoff covering.

Preferably the set of tickets has a published minimum number of points awarded. Thus the player can be assured to win at least a minimum number of points on the ticket with the opportunity by playing the game to win additional points.

In some cases higher points numbers are placed on losing tickets only, while winning tickets are assigned the minimum number of points.

Preferably each of the tickets has printed thereon a validation number for use in entering into a data base to obtain validation of the prize and a points entry number defining the number of points is different from the validation number. In this case the validation number is not stored on nor accessible by the programed computer. This avoids all the issues of security which can arise if the validation number is used for both functions.

Preferably the programed computer includes a program component identifying a plurality of different tiers of membership by the registered players and for placing each player in a respective tier of membership. Preferably the tier of membership is selected by the program component based on the number of points added to the account by points awarded from played tickets. Preferably the program component is arranged to provide benefits to the player increasing with each higher membership tier reached.

In this arrangement, the set of tickets can include as a prize thereon an award of memberships to a selected tier independent of the number of points awarded to the player.

In one example of the use of the tiers, different tiers give different points value of the games to be played. For example, if players from two different tiers are playing the same game, the higher tier member may be awarded a higher number of points upon a winning sequence.

The points awarded can preferably be used in different ways. Thus the program can provide the ability for the player to use points from the account to purchase merchandize. Thus the points are used to play the games as on line instant games. Thus the games to be played can require different points value

Thus the program can be arranged to provide the ability for the player to use points from the account to cash out. However, as the points are only redeemable at the Player's Club, there is typically no benefit to "cashing out". Points remain stored in the player's account. If the account is inactive for a period of time ie then the points are forfeited.

Thus the program can be arranged to provide the ability for the player to use points from the account to enter a draw.

Thus the program can be arranged to provide the ability for the player to use points from the account to enter an auction, such as a Dutch auction.

Thus the program can be arranged to provide the ability for the player to use points from the account to give to charitable donations.

The program can be arranged to provide the ability for the player to purchase points for the account.

In one example, the indication of the number of points is printed in a separate area, covered by a separate scratchoff area. In this case, the ticket can be separated into a main portion and a stub portion joined to the main portion and separable therefrom by a perforation and the indication of the number of points is printed is printed on the stub.

In addition the ticket can have printed thereon a code that can be scanned by a mobile device for automatic access web site.

This concept as described in more detail hereinafter is distinct from the above identified patent applications because of the following:

The present concept requires a separate code to enter not the validation number.

The present concept eliminates need to encrypt validation number

The present concept preferably makes the Players Club available to all players regardless of status after instant play.

In the present concept points are pre-assigned to the lottery ticket and are variable. Entry process simply verifies the previously assigned value versus assigning a value after entry process.

In the present concept the accumulation of points leads to attaining a certain membership level with benefits increasing with each higher membership level reached.

The use of a separate Player's Club number eliminates the need for encryption.. The use of the separate Player's Club number, while it may be linked algorithmically to the validation number in the secret situation of the printer, does not pose the security risks associated with the use of the validation number because there is no relationship between the instant prizing on the ticket and the Player's Club points being awarded on a particular ticket. The Player's Club number remains completely hidden from view until such time as the scratchoff covering is removed. No portion of the number is visible prior to play by the consumer. The validation number or, at a minimum, a subset of the validation number is also covered prior to removal by the player. Lotteries are very sensitive to access to the validation information and the potential loss of integrity if this knowledge were to become public. High levels of security surround this information. In the previous systems, all numbers must be encrypted to avoid the risk of having a file of losing validation numbers resident on a separate system from the lottery validation system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One embodiment of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a plan view of a lottery ticket forming one part of an apparatus according to the present invention.

Figure 2 is a plan view of a second embodiment of lottery ticket forming one part of an apparatus according to the present invention.

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a computer system forming a second part of an apparatus according to the present invention.

Figure 4 is a plan view of a lottery ticket forming one part of an secodn embodiment of apparatus according to the present invention.

Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a computer system forming a second part of the apparatus of Figure 4.

Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of a flow chart showing operation of the apparatus of Figures 4 and 5.

Figure 7 is a plan view of a lottery ticket forming one part of a third embodiment of apparatus according to the present invention.

Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of a first embodiment of computer system forming a second part of the apparatus of Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a first embodiment of computer system forming a second part of the apparatus of Figure 7.

Figure 10 is a plan view of a lottery ticket forming one part of an apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a computer system forming a second part of the apparatus of Figure 10.

in the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The apparatus shown in Figures 1 to 3 for use in a lottery game to be played by a plurality of players includes a set of lottery tickets 10 shown in Figure 1 and a programmed computer system 20 shown in Figure 3.

The set of lottery tickets includes a plurality of individual tickets 10A,

10B to 10X. The number of tickets can vary but typically the tickets are formed in books making up a complete set for a particular game. The books are provided as individual items to be sold by retailers to the public. Depending on the longevity of the game, the number of books can be large with many re-printings or can be much smaller for specific dedicated games.

Each ticket is formed of a substrate having printed thereon various information necessary for the game to be played. This includes a game logo 12 and game rules 13 which set out the basis by which the winning and losing status of the ticket is instantly determined from game data 14 including a level of prize for a winning ticket. Many different arrangements for such instant win tickets are well known to a person skilled in the art.

The game data 14 is printed in a game area 15 using printing techniques well known to a person skilled in the art and is covered by a scratch-off layer 16 also well known.

The ticket further includes a validation number 17 and a bar code 18 related to the validation number allowing these to be used to validate any prize claimed by a player after playing the game by exposing the game data. The bar code and validation number can left exposed or be covered before playing by a second area of scratch-off or by the same area 16. If the barcode and validation number are exposed then the validation number is incomplete. To ensure security some of the digits from the validation number are hidden from view under scratchoff.. If a barcode is hidden then it would contain all of the necessary data to complete the validation process.

The game data 14 is thus covered by an areas of scratch-off coating 16 which can be removed by a player to expose the game data with the exposed game data including an instant win game revealing whether the player is a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize.

In addition to the conventional instant win game, the area 15 includes, when exposed by removal of the layer 16, an indication 19 of a number of points awarded to the player printed in a person readable number. The information printed further includes in the exposed game data points entry number 19A as a unique number identifying the ticket.

The number of points awarded by the ticket is thus readable when exposed with the points entry number identifying that ticket also being readable for entry into a computer as explained hereinafter. At 19B the ticket includes information related to the rules for the awarding of points including a minimum number always awarded and other "prize" amounts which exceed the minimum.

A code 19C is also printed onto the ticket in the game area which can be read and decoded using a mobile phone or similar camera device which allow the code to be entered into a program for decoding either on the device or remotely.

As shown in Figure 3, the system 20 includes a programed computer 21 which forms a server which allows access to a web site by the player of the ticket from a terminal 22. The web site is associated with the tickets in that the points entry numbers 19A or the code 19C when entered into an input 23 allow access by the player into the web site.

The computer 21 communicates through the internet 24 with a player at the remote terminal 22 wishing to enter the web site.

The computer 21 includes a program component 21 A for entering registration of personal details of a player entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player in a data base 25.

The computer 21 includes a program component 21 B allowing entry by the registered player of a points entry number from a played ticket with that information being stored in a data base 26. The data base 26 contains information defining, for each of the tickets of the set, the number of points awarded by that respective ticket as identified by the respective points entry number.

The program 21 A is arranged to maintain in the data base 25 for each registered player an account of a points total held by that player by adding points awarded by the tickets played by that player and deducting points used by the player on that web site. The data base also contains information defining a tier of player associated with each of the players.

The computer defines for the web site series of available locations where the player can access. These includes a plurality of games 27 to be played by the player using the points, a purchase program 28 by which the player can use the points to make purchases, an auction program by which the player may use the points to enter an auction and a gift to charity program by which the player can use the points to dedicate points or their cash value to charity. These programs are associated with data bases 31 , 32 , 33 and 34 respectively containing the necessary information to allow the transactions to occur. The data base 31 includes various games to be played including online betting 31 A, a lottery draw 3 B, slot type instant win games 31 C, spin the wheel and poker type interactive games 31 D.

The terminal 22 includes a further input 23A which allows a player to input a payment sum. This can be done by credit card or more preferably is done by purchasing a pre-paid card from a lottery retailer which carries a payment amount and codes which allow the payment to be processed.

In Figure 2, instead of the points information being printed in the area 15 with the game data, it is printed in a separate area 15A located at a separate location on the substrate. In this case the area 15A is located on a stub portion 11A of the ticket which can be separated by a line of perforations 11 B. In this way the game part of the ticket can be separated from the points part for separate processing depending on whether the game part is a winning or losing ticket.

The Player's Club disclosed herein operates as follows:

The number of points awarded on the points total 19 as established by the points entry number 19A is independent of the prize. Points 19 are awarded on both winning and losing tickets.

The number of points 19 awarded by the tickets is different on different tickets 10A, 10B etc and the number is revealed only on exposing the game data by the player removing the scratch-off layer 16.

The number of points 19 awarded is set out in a Player's Point area

19D, which is part of the game play area 15 and covered by the same scratchoff covering 16.

The set of tickets 10 has a published minimum number of points awarded as set out in the points information 19B.

Higher points numbers are placed on losing tickets only, while winning tickets are assigned the minimum number of points.

Each of the tickets 10A etc has printed thereon a validation number 17 for use in entering into a data base to obtain validation of the prize and the points entry number 19A is different from the validation number and the validation number is not stored on nor accessible by the programed computer 21.

The programed computer includes a program component 21 A identifying a plurality of different tiers of membership 25B by the registered players and for placing each player in a respective tier of membership.

The tier of membership 25B is selected by the program component 21 A based on the number of points added to the account by points 25A awarded from played tickets. The program component 21 A is arranged to provide benefits to the player increasing with each higher membership tier reached. The set of tickets 10 includes on one or more of the tickets of the set as a prize thereon from playing the game data 14 an award of memberships to a selected tier 25B independent of the number of points 25A awarded to the player.

The games 31 are arranged to give different tiers of player give different points value of the games to be played.

The program 21 C provides the ability for the player to use points from the account to purchase merchandize as indicated at program 28.

The games 31 C to be played are on line instant games.

The games 31 C to be played require different points value 31 E, 31 F and 31 G.

The program 21 C provides the ability for the player to use points from the account to cash out by selecting a program 31 H to provide a token to be printed out and redeemed at the lottery retailer.

The program 21 C provides the ability for the player to use points from the account to enter a draw 31 B.

The program provides the ability for the player to use points from the account to enter an auction using program 29.

The program provides the ability for the player to use points from the account to give to charitable donations using program 30.

The program provides the ability for the player to purchase points for the account 25A by entering a monetary payment at input 23A.

The program provides the ability for the player to purchase points for the account. In this case, payment can be made by credit or other type of transactional card input.

The program provides the option of purchasing points from a lottery retailer who upon completion of the transaction will provide the player with a coupon for entry onto the player's club website. In this case, the coupon contains a barcode to facilitate the process either via a computer terminal with attached scanner or a similarly equipped mobile device.

The points can be awarded as an incentive for different actions undertaken by a player. For example a player can earn bonus points if they use a mobile device to scan the entry code.

The Player's Club is a point-based operation in which player's earn points through the purchase of instant tickets and then utilize these points to purchase lottery merchandise or participate in other forms of gaming to extend their play including promotions, drawings, etc.

Optionally the lottery may introduce multiple tiers (ie. bronze, silver, gold, etc.) which a player can achieve through the accumulation of points in order to reach pre-determined entry point levels. The various levels may provide different types of gaming/offerings in order to act as an incentive for players to accumulate enough points to achieve the next tier.

An alternate way to achieve membership would be for the lottery to award high level prizes of instant memberships to these tiers, which bypasses the accumulated points levels normally required.. Frequency of this type of win would be at the lottery's discretion.

One of the key features is that every ticket in a lottery game, whether it is a winner or loser on the instant portion, will be a winner on the Player's Club side.

Every ticket is considered a winner because every player will receive at least the minimum level of points when the ticket is scratched regardless of the win/lose status on the main play area(s). Optionally the lottery could restrict the assignment of points to losing tickets only.

At the time of play as the player is removing the scratchoff from the game areas on the ticket, preferably they will find a Player's Point area, which will be part of the game play area and covered by the same scratchoff covering. The

Player's Point area will contain the numeric value of points won on that ticket.

Associated with the Player's Point value will be a multi-digit number or optionally will be alphanumeric. This number is preferably unique within the game and different than the validation number used for redemption of the instant portion. In addition to the Player's Club entry number the game number may be associated with it or the player would be required to enter the game number from the back of the ticket.

Alternatively the Player's Point value and entry number could be positioned in a separate box, covered by a separate scratchoff covering. Another option would be the placement of the Player's Point information in a separate box which shares the scratchoff covering with the game play area. A further option would be to place the Player's Points information on the back of the ticket covered by a scratchable coating. Another option would be to place the Player's Points information in a separate box, covered by a separate scratchoff, on a stub. The stub would be joined to the ticket and separable by a perforation so that the player would be able to retain the information even if the ticket is a winner or does not need to retain the entire ticket in the case of a loser.

In addition to or independent of, the above, the Player's Point value and entry number could be contained in a code, such as a QR code, data matrix barcode or other type of code, that could be scanned by a mobile device for automatic access to the Player's Club and expedited entry and point accumulation. Also points could be awarded as an incentive for different actions undertaken by a player. For example a player could earn bonus points if they use a mobile device to scan the entry code.

In the case where a common game area and covering is used caution would have to be taken to clearly identify the Player's Points value so that a player cannot claim a winner when, for example, the points value matches the Numbers to Match number in the instant game.

The use of a separate Player's Club number eliminates the need for encryption. The use of the separate Player's Club number, while it may be linked algorithmicaliy to the validation number in a manner secretly available to the printer only, does not pose the security risks associated with the use of the validation number because no portion of the number is visible prior to play by the consumer. In the other systems ail numbers must be encrypted to avoid the risk of having a file of losing validation numbers resident on a separate system from the lottery validation system.

The majority of tickets, winners and iosers produced will have a minimum value of points the level for which is established by the lottery prior to ticket production. If additional payability is desired the points values on some tickets can be raised. The higher value of points wili preferably appear on both winning and losing tickets so that if an individual were to access the file they could not differentiate between a winner and loser on the regular game portion. Even with access to the file the security of the ticket is protected by the covering of the complete entry number by scratchoff. Optionally the higher points values would be placed on losing tickets only while winning tickets would be assigned the minimum level(s) of points.

Point values may be based on the price point of the ticket with tickets having a higher price point being assigned a correspondingly higher minimum points value and possibly a higher overall range of point values. Point ranges could vary between different lottery organizations.

The first step in the process will be for the player to register as a member of the Player's Club. This can be done either in advance of an entry or at the same time as the initial entry. Registration would include the type of information commonly retained - name, address, contact information, etc. Once the registration process is complete, including establishment of a password, etc. the player can begin the entry process for tickets which they have accrued. Data entry will consist of game and ticket identification. A further check would be the entry of the point value shown on the ticket. The system would then check the information and point value and compare it to the file for that game, which is supplied by the ticket manufacturer. If the match is made then the points will be credited to the player's account.

For subsequent visits, the player will log onto to the system and once verified they can begin the process of entering ticket info. The points value for each accepted ticket is added to the player's account.

Once the player has accumulated enough points they would have a choice of options as to how they spend the points earned. There will be a potentially broad range of options available and the variety can be expanded and adjusted over time. Prizes for the different options will vary. The player could play to earn additional points, eg. by playing a slot machine, participate in lotto draws, eg. selecting a subset of numbers from a range of available numbers - Pick 3 (1 combination of 3 numbers out of a possible 1000), enter draws for prizes (merchandise, cash, instant lottery ticket coupons redeemable for tickets, play online gaming either for fun or additional prizes, etc. There is a wide range of possible activities which can be implemented initially or can be added over time to maintain high levels of interest and participation.

In addition players would have the opportunity to "spend" their points in order to purchase items. Items could include merchandise, coupons for instant tickets, movie passes, etc.

Following are a list of possible concepts that can be used. For example the player can:

Enter the Casino

The casino would offer various play formats including slot machines. There would be different levels of slots available. Entry would be based on pre- determined numbers of points per play (for example, 1 pt, 5 pt, 10 pt, 20 pt, 50 pt. etc.). Play action would be similar to a standard slot machine and would offer, free plays, accumulating points credits and even cash or merchandise prizes. The variety of games available to a Player's Club member may change depending on the tier level they are at. For example, slot machine at the silver level may include the 20 pt. machines in addition to those at the lower levels. At the gold level the 50 pt. machines would be added.

Players could cash out at any time and their accumulated points (if any) would be credited to their account. The player could redeem these points at the internet lottery store for gift packs, movie passes, etc.

Lottery Draws

For x points the player could enter into draws for various lottery items or cash/merchandise prizes. Draws cannot be related to a specific game - see note below.

In the case of the tiered membership structure, higher membership levels would have access to more/better draws than base level members.

Virtual Prize Wheel

For x points, the Player's Club member can spin a virtual wheel for a chance to win in a variety of different prize categories. For example they could spin to multiply their accumulated points by some factor. For example, the values on the wheel could range from 1 to 1 ,000. Alternatively prizes could include a chance to win automatic entries into every 2nd chance draw conducted by the lottery for a predetermined period of time, predetermined number of draws or continuous.

Enter Auction

The auction is an auction house where players could bid to win prizes or packs being offered by the lottery. Unlike Ebay, LBay would be based on a Dutch auction style in which the points required to purchase decrement until such time as a Player agrees to pay the required number of points in order to obtain the reward. Typically a multiple of the same item (ie. 20 lottery packs) is offered and even after 1 or more units is bought at a particular points level, the required points level would continue to decline until all offered are sold or there are no takers even at the lowest amount.

If multiple bids are received at the same points level which exceeds the number of items being offered then the earliest bids win. We may want to consider allowing for pre-bids - a player submit a bid of x points well in advance of reaching that level or even in advance of the start of the auction. If the auction reaches that level then the player's bid is automatically entered. This might deflect concern that people have to have access to a computer at all times and the need to monitor the action.

Charitable Donations Players could donate a portion of their accumulated points to a list of charitable organizations within the state. For example charitable organizations could submit requests for support and a cost associated with the support being sought (animal shelter requesting x dog kennels at a cost of $1 ,000 per). The lottery would assign a point level required to provide the items and players would select an organization and donate points accordingly.

The lottery might even consider allowing organizations (ie. service clubs) to collect tickets or entry data (in the case of winning tickets) from it's members and to apply these points to the items they are seeking to obtain.

Accumulate Points by Scanning Codes on Tickets with a Mobile

Device/Smart Phone. Offer special promotions on select games that feature QR codes or other types of codes. Player would scan the code with their mobile device for automatic access to the lottery website or Player's Club. Points could be earned initially to encourage the use of this technology.

Points for Presents

Points could be used to purchase gifts during the holidays. Selection of gifts could include lottery merchandise, lottery subscriptions, instant tickets, etc. For an additional fee, the gifts would be delivered directly to the intended recipient.

There are a variety of different options that cou!d be made available and this could be increased in order to maintain and build player participation. Turning now to the second embodiment shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6, there is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players;

each ticket of the set of tickets being arranged on playing by the player to reveal whether each player is a loser or winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

a first program for confirming whether a player is a winner of a prize of the first game and for providing a prize redemption arrangement by which the player can select to obtain the prize redemption;

a second program allowing communication with a player to enter the site from a remote terminal;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player;

and a third program for providing entry of the player into said at least one second game on the site using said prize as at least part of a stake in the second game;

such that the player who is a winner of prize on the first game can select to accept the prize redemption or to enter the site to use the prize to play said at least one second game.

The games concerned are preferably instant win type games where the result is entirely predetermined, since such games are generally preferred in a lottery situation in order to ensure that the total winnings is predetermined. However the present invention is not limited to the type of game to be played and can include probability or other games which include game indicia covered by a scratch-off coating.

In a preferred arrangement, the apparatus for playing the first game comprises a set of lottery tickets, the set of lottery tickets comprising a substrate having printed thereon, in one or more areas, game data covered by one or more areas of scratch-off coating which can be removed by a player to expose the game data, the exposed game data including an instant win game revealing whether the player is a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize. However other games can be used such as horse race betting or other betting which leads to the creation of a first prize which the player can choose to redeem directly as cash or to use the prize as a stake on a second game on line at a separate web site.

Preferably the third program is arranged to provide an additional incentive for the player to select to enter the web site and play the second game. The incentive can for example comprise an increase in a monetary value of the prize. However other incentives can be provided such as points in Player points club.

Preferably the control system includes a further sub program pr program component arranged to allow the player of the second game to redeem a value of the player's holdings after playing the second game or games. Typically therefore the player will play the cash either until it is gone or until the play results in a higher tier prize which makes it worthwhile to cash out.

Preferably the control system is arranged to require the player to play at least one second game before being allowed to redeem the holdings. That is, having taken the incentive to play, the player cannot merely take that extra cash incentive and run. There is a requirement for the player to play the games and thus risk the amount and bring the player under the managed risk system which controls the payout over a total number of players to a proportion of the input prize by those players. Thus the system can be funded only from the prize input without additional risk.

Thus the control system is preferably arranged such that said at least one second game is a managed risk game which provides a maximum total redemption value to a plurality of players which is a proportion only of the total of the prizes entered by those players.

Preferably the game includes a plurality of games each arranged to pay out in total to players only a proportion of a total amount staked by the players.

Preferably said at least one game comprises an accumulating jackpot game in which the jackpot paid to a winning player is a proportion of the total amount staked by the players.

In this way, the system provides another cash input opportunity for the company managing the web site. This management can be carried out by the same lottery organization managing the original game (typically the lottery ticket game) or can be carried out by a separate company set up for this operation. As the management of the web site necessarily will lead to profit due to the managed risk system, there is opportunity for the company to offer profit incentives to the lottery organization to allow this type of web site game to be added to their lottery ticket management systems.

In order for the player to cash out, the control system is preferably arranged to print a redemption certificate usable by the player at a ticket retailer for redeeming the cash value.

Preferably the control system Is arranged to allow a player to purchase more credit at a ticket retailer where in the ticket retailer is arranged to operate the control system to print a credit certificate having a validation number for entering into the web site.

As an alternative cash management system, there can be provided for each player a smart card to be used by the player for credit and for redemption where the control system is arranged to enter onto the smart card information allowing the payment of credit and the redemption of holding to take place at a lottery retailer.

Preferably each ticket includes at least one validation number and wherein there is provided a data base containing a look-up-table including for each ticket said at least one validation number in association with a prize of the first game and wherein the data base for validation is accessible from lottery retailers for determining the prize and is accessible for determining the prize for the web site and wherein the data base is maintained separated from the web site to prevent direct access by players accessing the web site to the data base, thus allowing the same validation number to be used without encryption for validation of the prize in both the lottery retailer and in the web site.

Preferably the parallel redemption requires the data base to be updated in real time.

Preferably the program provides the ability for the player to redeem the holdings from the account to purchase merchandize.

Preferably the games to be played on the web site are on line instant games.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player; wherein the programed computer system is arranged to allow a player to purchase credit at a ticket retailer to play the second game;

and wherein the programed computer system is arranged to print a credit certificate having a validation number for entering of the validation number into the site to access the credit.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player;

wherein there is provided a plurality of smart cards each arranged to be used by a respective player for credit and for redemption;

and wherein the programed computer system is arranged to enter onto the smart card information allowing the payment of credit and the redemption of the value of holdings to take place at a lottery retailer. According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players;

each ticket includes at least one validation number identifying the ticket;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player;

wherein there is provided a data base containing a look-up-table for validation including for each ticket said at least one validation number in association with the prize of the first game;

wherein the data base for validation is accessible from lottery retailers for determining the prize;

wherein the data base for validation is accessible by the programed computer system for determining the prize for the site;

and wherein the data base is maintained separated from the site to prevent direct access by players accessing the site to the data base, thus allowing the same validation number to be used without encryption for validation of the prize in both the lottery retailer and in the site.

The arrangement described in detail hereinafter can provide one or more of the following features and advantages:

It provides extended play option{s) for the traditional instant ticket player on the internet.

It develops a value added feature for printed lottery tickets to enhance their appeal to various market segments and player demographics.

It acts to introduce instant ticket player to web-based gaming alternatives.

it generate additional revenue using a managed-risk approach to gaming.

It acts to possibly generate additional revenue for the Lottery thru the partnership.

Basically an instant win scratchoff game is generated conventionally with a fixed, instant prize structure. The tickets are then sold to a lottery organization who market the tickets through the retailer network within their jurisdiction. Players purchase the ticket at a retailer or vending machine and play proceeds as normal. If the ticket is an apparent winner the player can redeem the ticket at a lottery retailer. At the time of redemption the winning status of the tickets is verified prior to payment. When redeemed, the lottery pays the player for the prize shown on the ticket.

Optionally the player has the opportunity to forego redeeming the ticket at a retailer and enter a web-based lottery site. At this site the player has access to at least one game format. The format for the at least one game relates to the game or ticket being redeemed on-line. Upon entering the managed-risk site, for the first time the player has to enter persona! information and establish an account. The process for entry of this information is included later in this document.

Once the account is established, the player is required to enter the validation information for the ticket(s), via phone, computer or mobile device, so that the legitimacy and winning status of the ticket(s) can be verified and a check can be performed to ensure that the ticket(s) has not been redeemed previously at a conventional lottery retailer or previously used for entry into the web-based lottery site. For this purpose the redemptions systems must be run in real time to ensure there is no delay which could allow the ticket to be used twice.

Once the legitimacy and win status for the ticket has been established, the player is awarded the value of the prize shown on the ticket plus a further credit or other incentive to play on the web site. The further credit will increase the value of the prize by a percentage to be determined on an individual basis for each site. The value of the total credit is provided by the organization managing the web site game, who will subsequently be reimbursed for the original prize value of the ticket by the lottery. This organization is typically separate from the lottery and remains solely responsible for the additional credit being given.

The web site games are managed as a managed-risk concept in that the games provide a maximum total redemption value to a plurality of players which is a proportion only of the total of the prizes entered by those players. That is the total payout can never be greater than the amount of money taken in as the prize values.

This can be done by providing a plurality of games each arranged to pay out in total to players only a proportion of a total amount staked by the players.

Alternatively this can be done by providing an accumulating jackpot game in which the jackpot paid to a winning player is a proportion of the total amount staked by the players.

One of the risk factors with the managed-risk concept is that players may elect to enter the website, proceed through the registration process and acceptance in order to receive the full credit being provided, following which they could "cash out" immediately upon receipt. This of course results in a direct loss of the additional credit being provided by the separate organization managing the web site. Steps need to be undertaken to reduce this risk although it may not be possible to eliminate it completely. Some of the alternatives discussed to reduce the risk level are as follows:

Vary the additional credit being awarded for each entry for example the range could be from $0 to $100 per instant ticket. This increases the play factor as a further inducement to participate in the on-line offering versus simple redemption at the retailer.

Introduce a minimum play requirement before a player can "cash out". For example the player may be required to participate in the on-line game offering to the equivalent value of the additional credit being awarded, for each redeemed ticket, by Pollard. If the additional credit is $5, then the player has to wager an equal amount. This may be in the form of 5 - $1 entries or a combination of plays, which totals $5.

Another alternative may be the introduction of the managed-risk game offer on tickets which are deemed to be more difficult to sight validate. One possibility is that retailers will try to sight validate tickets and pay out prizes accordingly versus validating the tickets on their terminal as they are supposed to. Their objective is to collect winning tickets which they subsequently enter onto the website in order to collect the higher credit.

The proposals are consistent with steps taken to encourage Responsible Gaming. One objective of the managed risk concept is to provide an entertaining introduction to internet gaming in a safe lottery-controlled environment. The other area of risk is in regards to the requirement for reai-time reporting, particularly in regards to the redemption of winning tickets at both the retailer and the managed-risk website. The risk is that unscrupulous players and/or retailers attempt to validate the ticket and then enter on the website or vice-versa. Minimization of this risk requires the lottery or the web site organization, depending on where the first transaction takes place, being updated at the time that the transaction is completed. Any delay in the processing of this information will make the process longer. If this cannot be achieved then there have to be delays built into the website process so that we are assured that ail entries are legitimate when the play action commences.

The redemption process when a player decides to "cash out" may vary depending on the lottery and any legal transactional restrictions. One option is for the web site organization to generate a redemption coupon, which contains a barcode. Simultaneously the web site organization provides the lottery with the information so that the value can be verified at the time of redemption. In operation, the player prints this coupon out and presents it to a lottery retailer for cashing. Upon receipt the lottery retailer scans the barcode and upon verification pays the amount to the player. One of the benefits of this process is that the entire entry, piay and redemption process does not require the transfer of funds electronically either through a pay service, like Paypal or using credit cards.

Alternatively if the web site organization is responsible for the payout of prizes earned on the managed-risk website, they are still subject to the restrictions that the lottery is. Prizes won by the players which are less than $600 are awarded as credits to the players account. Prizes $600 and greater will have to be paid to the player directly in order to comply with existing tax regulations and other considerations that the lotteries are subject to, for example unpaid child support, unpaid taxes, etc.. One question to be determined is whether if a player has won several smaller prizes the total value of which exceeds the $600 level whether the same restrictions apply at the time that the player "cashes out".

Another alternative is for the lottery to payout the prizes of $600 or greater, in turn the lottery is reimbursed by the web site organization.

The question of revenue sharing with the lotteries is to be determined.

One possibility is the development of a revenue sharing system, based on a set of minimum threshold levels to ensure that the web site organization achieves its targeted profits. This system can be tailored to specific lotteries and can vary depending on the size of he market, etc. The opportunity to share revenue may provide additional incentive for the lotteries to participate jointly with the web site organization in offering this type of extended play.

Optionally, the web site organization may allow players to purchase additional credits for further play. The credit awarded is the equivalent of the monies paid with no additional credit. A portion of the value of the credits purchased could be subsequently paid to the lottery to enable them to increase their overall revenue. Lotteries are continually looking for additional revenue sources to enable them to continue and grow the level of support provided for their beneficiaries. Various play formats on the web site games can be selected. The rationale for the managed-risk website and the awarding of the additional credit is based on the tendency of most lottery players to continue play even when they win small tier prizes, until basically ail credits are used up. The overall target payout that the players extract from the managed-risk website via "cashing out" at the end of play or through the payout of prizes which exceed the $600 limit is a percentage of the value of the funds paid to the web site organization by the lottery. This percentage value is determined on an individual site basis.

To achieve this objective the challenge for the web site organization is to develop and/or implement game concepts that enable them to control prize payouts in order to ensure that the target set for the site is being achieved and maintained.

Sample game concepts which achieve this objective could be:

50 / 50 Draw where the game is based on the format that is popular with smail fund raising activities at gatherings, sports events, etc. In this case players on the managed-risk website enters the draw by paying a set fee, eg. the $10 win from their instant ticket, which is taken from their account. Players are not restricted from purchasing multiple tickets. At a set point in time in the future a draw is done from all eligible entrants and half of all funds raised is paid out to the winning players. This concept works if the credit being awarded by the web site organization upon completion of the verification process is less than the value of the ticket being redeemed. For example if the credit equals 50% of the winning value of the ticket then the monies paid out is 75% of the value of funds received from the lottery. The web site organization revenue equals 25% of money paid by players less operational and administrative costs for the game and web-site.

As an alternative accumulation Prizes can be provided where the managed-risk web-site offers a series of slot machine style of games which have a fixed payout for lower tier prizes and a Jackpot prize which continues to grow until paid out. For each play sequence on one or a multiple of machines, a portion of the credit paid is assigned to the Jackpot prize which continues to grow based on play activity. At some point the Jackpot is awarded based on some controlling rationale. Once the Jackpot is paid out, a minimum prize value is assigned so that there is stil! an incentive to play as the value of the Jackpot prize begins to accumulate again.

These play options are only representative of the types of games that could be offered to the players. There are other formats which provide the opportunity to control and/or minimize risk while still providing exciting play alternatives to lottery players.

In general the challenge for the web site organization will be to manage the risk associated with the operation of this web-site. The style of gaming presented will have to provide the appeal necessary to encourage the majority of players to commence and continue play rather than cashing out upon completion of the verification process or upon earning some low level of prizing.

The arrangement herein provides an entry method which achieves the required data security level without the need for repeated encryption and decryption processes. This is achieved by the web site organization maintaining control of the essential elements of the process and working in conjunction with the lottery to complete steps for setting up account, generate player ID or account #, verification, etc.

There are different versions of the method depending on the style of gaming being offered, that is a second chance draw or managed-risk. All versions are based on the assumption that the lotteries will not provide player information to the web site organization and the lotteries will be responsible for payment of prizes either the result of a second chance draw or when a player "cashes out" of the managed-risk site.

There may be other alternatives, for example payment of lower tier prizes to an on-line service like Paypal. These alternatives are dependent on the willingness of the lottery to provide the web site organization with access to the player information.

The arrangement described herein therefore provides a Managed Risk gaming concept, combined with a method for data entry and processing plus a method for making financial transactions relating to operation of an internet gaming site. The data entry and financial transaction methods can be used in conjunction with the Managed Risk concept to create a complete package or al of the three methods can be used independently in combination with other internet-related options.

The 3 concepts are as follows: In regard to Data Entry, as described in the prior patent application 61/437444, there are existing patents and applications relating to the entry and validation processes for lottery related gaming on the internet The application describes an alternative method related to the operation of a points-based Players Club. The present arrangement provides another alternative method by which players can enter and register on an internet website in order to establish an account. Further once the account is established to enable the player to enter applicable information relating to individual tickets or other documents that are deemed acceptable for that particular site. Once the data is entered to subsequently verify that the data entered represents a legitimate ticket and that the ticket being entered has not been redeemed previously as a conventional retail operation. The site will provide information relating to redeemed tickets to the original organizer to prevent a player from attempting to redeem the ticket conventionally after it has been entered onto the internet alternative.

The method enables a consumer to establish an account on a lottery or other organization website by mobile device, computer or phone. Registration requires the entry of personal information including identification such as a drivers license #, etc. Upon receipt the lottery will create an account for the player inclusive of account number and password, etc.

Optionally the lottery may forward all or a portion of this information to a 3rd party website in order to create an a record of the account on that site if some play action will take place there versus verification only. Upon verification that the account has been established, to enable the consumer to enter the lottery website, access their account and to enter the validation or other verification number from a previously purchased ticket(s).

For ticket verification purposes oniy, the lottery website will record each entry and then forward the validation information per ticket, plus a record ID, to a third party website for verification and processing. For the lottery internal purposes, the unique record ID will link the player information and account number to the entered validation information. The third party website may be a ticket-vendor controlled website on which the validation numbers for ail eligible tickets and games resides.

The third party website will have software programs which will record the entry and then proceed to verify the information

The third party website sub-program will verify that the validation number that has been presented is eligible and has not been presented previously to the website. Once verification is complete the third party website will send a response to the lottery website re acceptance or rejection of the entry. The transmission will include the unique record ID for the lottery to reference.

The lottery may send a notification by e-mail, text, etc. to update player of status.

If the entry has been accepted the lottery website will provide a least one play option to the player, for example a second chance draw

Optionally the third party may be responsible for operating the gaming website and the player can be offered play options there for example a second chance draw. In this case the lottery will be required to send the player account number in addition to the validation information and record ID. Upon verification the third party website may advise the player directly of acceptance or the lottery may continue to do so. This option is utilized for the Managed Risk / Alternative Redemption concept, which is operated by the third party vendor only.

Optionally several play choices could be offered to the player both including those offered under the Managed Risk / Alternative Redemption option.

In regard to the Managed Risk / Alternative Redemption, the Managed Risk concept is basically a method of operating an internet gaming site in which winners in other forms of gaming for example instant scratch tickets, lottery draw, horse race, etc can elect to enter an extended gaming website rather than redeeming their winnings at a conventional retailer of that particular product. Upon entry the site operator credits the player's account with the amount they have won initially and the site operator is subsequently credited for the amount won by the organization who offered the original product. Upon completion of the entry and verification processes, the site operator awards an additional credit to the player's account, at the site operators risk with no compensation by the organization, to the player as an incentive to enter the website rather than simply redeeming the ticket conventionally. Typically the additional award can be equal to a percentage of the winning prize but others may be considered.

The Managed Risk / Alternative Redemption concept is based on the belief that the majority of players, once they commence play will continue their play activity until either they have used up all of the monies credited to their account or else win a higher tier prize and subsequently cash-out. Overall the Managed risk website is targeting an overall payout which is less than the value of credits being received from the lottery or alternate organization. Profit for the operator basically consists of all monies received from the lottery organization minus the costs for prizes, site operation/management, development, etc.

Thus the arrangement includes establishing a lottery website which will feature at least one play option for eligible players, establishing and maintaining an individual account for each player which will track all entries, money spent, prizes won and a resulting balance.

Optionally the account may also contain information on credit cards and/or banking information depending on how financial transactions are to be handled and if the player is allowed to purchase additional credits after establishment of an account and play has begun.

Optionally the financial transactions may be handled in accordance with one of the alternative methods described below. Thus on receiving verification information on each accepted entry, the verification process will include a check on a separate data-base, which will be updated, by the lottery, in a real-time environment of all tickets which have been redeemed conventionally.

Once verification is complete providing notification to the lottery or organization, in real-time, that the player has elected to redeem a ticket at the Alternative Redemption site. This notice will also generate a request to arrange for transfer of funds equivalent to the original prize amount to the Alternative Redemption operator.

Once verification is complete, a credit is awarded to the player equal to the amount won on the original form of gaming. Also a further credit is awarded to the player as the incentive to enter the alternative website. The site offers at least one play format of gaming in which the player can elect to participate. The site can provide particular focus on game play styles which provide accumulating higher tier prizes versus guaranteed top prizes. There is also provided an arrangement to allow a player to withdraw the monies in their account upon completion of play in the form of credit on a credit card, bank deposit, credit redeemable at a lottery retailer via electronic or manual means as described in the financial section following

Typically internet gaming has relied on the use of credit cards or other on-line transactional services to facilitate the transfer of funds when initiating play or for redemption of winners. The present arrangement proposes an alternative approach which does not require the need to transfer funds to or from credit cards and is more in-line with responsible gaming initiatives. There are two alternative methods which relate to the purchase of credits, either upon initial piay or for subsequent play. Secondly there are two methods for redeeming prizes won on an internet site, in addition to the responsible gaming benefits these methods also solve the problem of how to include conventional retailers in internet gaming initiatives being undertaken by the lotteries. In a first method, the player makes a visit to a conventional lottery retail shop or other authorized location where he pays the amount of money required to purchase a credit for play on the internet. The Retailer will enter the transaction on the system. The retailers issue a slip which contains the pre-paid amount and associated transactional and verification numbers. The system maintains a record at the lottery of these transactions. After completion and acceptance of a player registration, for the first visit, or upon successful entry of account information and password, the player enters the verification number and associated amount paid onto the system. The system will verify via that the transaction had not been entered previously and secondly that the verification information is valid. Once verification is complete the appropriate amount is applied to the players account. The lottery system is updated to reflect change in status

In a second method, prior to first transaction the player acts to establish an account with the lottery who will be responsible foe issuance of an account card. At a visit to a conventional lottery retail shop or other authorized location the player obtains a smart Card which will contain magnetic stripe, barcode and / or chip. The player acts to pay the amount of money required to purchase a credit for play on the internet. The retailer will scan the player cards and enter the transaction on the system. The lottery will deposit the monies into the player account. The retailer issues a receipt which contains the pre-paid amount and associated transactional and verification numbers. The system acts to maintain a record at the lottery of these transactions After completion and acceptance of a player registration, for the first visit, or upon successful entry of account information and password, the player enters their account where the money is deposited. Optionally if the gaming is being played on a third party website, the player accesses their account and requests a transfer of funds from the lottery account to their account of the third party website. Once verification is complete the appropriate amount is applied to the players account. The lottery system is updated to reflect change in status

In regard to payout, then method consists of the following elements: In a first method, the player requests to "cash-out" the remaining balance or a portion thereof from his account. The system verifies the availability of funds within the account. The system generates a record of the requested transaction including the amount to be redeemed plus verification and transactional information. The system generates a redemption slip which includes a barcode. The redemption slip is sent to player via e-maii and / or sent to mobile device. The player presents the slip or mobile device at conventional retail location or other authorized site together with other proof of ID. The retailer scans the slip or screen and enters data onto lottery system. The lottery system verifies the transaction including a check to ensure that the transaction has not been attempted previously. Payment is made by the retailer.

In the second method, the player accesses his account at the gaming website to "cash-out" the remaining balance or a portion thereof from his account. The system verifies the availability of funds within the account. The system generates a record of the requested transaction including the amount to be redeemed plus verification and transactional information. If the gaming site is a third party operation the information is transferred to the player account at the lottery. The system generates a receipt slip. The receipt slip is sent to player via e-mail and / or sent to mobile device. The player presents account card at conventional retail location or other authorized site together with other proof of ID and requests the amount to be redeemed. The retailer scans the card and the requested amount onto lottery system. The lottery system verifies the transaction including a check to ensure that the transaction has not been attempted previously. Payment is made by the retailer.

The apparatus shown in Figures 4 and 5 for use in a lottery game to be played by a plurality of players includes a set of lottery tickets 10 shown in Figure 4 and a programmed computer system 20 shown in Figure 6.

The set of lottery tickets includes a plurality of individual tickets 10A, 10B to 10X. The number of tickets can vary but typically the tickets are formed in books making up a complete set for a particular game. The books are provided as individual items to be sold by retailers to the public. Depending on the longevity of the game, the number of books can be large with many re-printings or can be much smaller for specific dedicated games.

The ticket further includes a validation number 7 and a bar code 18 related to the validation number allowing these to be used to validate any prize claimed by a player after playing the game by exposing the game data. The bar code and validation number can be left exposed or be covered before playing by a second area of scratch-off or by the same area 6. If the barcode and validation number are exposed then the validation number is incomplete. To ensure security some of the digits from the validation number are hidden from view under scratchoff.. If a barcode is hidden then it contains all of the necessary data to complete the validation process.

As shown in Figure 5, the system 20 includes a programed computer

21 which forms a server which allows access to a web site by the player of the ticket from a terminal 22. The web site is associated with the tickets in that the validation number17 when entered into an input 23 will allow access by the player into the web site 20A.

The computer 21 communicates through the internet 24 with a player at the remote terminal 22 wishing to enter the web site 20A.

The computer 21 includes a sub-program 21 A for entering registration of personal details of a player entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player in a data base 25.

The program 21 A is arranged to maintain in the data base 25 for each registered player an account of total cash holdings held by that player by adding cash won in games played by that player and deducting cash used by the player on that web site in playing the games.

The computer defines for the web site series of available locations where the player can access. These includes a plurality of games 27 to be played by the player using the cash won in the first game on the ticket. Thus the total holdings of cash for each registered player will vary as the player plays one or more games on the web site.

The web site also may define a purchase program 28 by which the player can use the cash to make purchases, an auction program by which the player may use the cash to enter an auction and a gift to charity program by which the player can use the cash to dedicate the cash value to charity. These programs are associated with data bases 31 , 32 , 33 and 34 respectively containing the necessary information to allow the transactions to occur. The data base 31 includes various games to be played including online betting 31 A, a Iottery draw 31 B, slot type instant win games 31 C, spin the wheel and poker type interactive games 31 D.

The terminal 22 includes a further input 23A which allows a player to input a payment sum. This can be done by credit card or more preferably is done by purchasing a pre-paid card from a Iottery retailer which carries a payment amount and codes which allow the payment to be processed.

In Figure 5, the data base which carries the validation codes and the associated winning amounts, where applicable, is set up as a data base 26 separate from the web site 20A at the server 21. In this way there is no direct access between the terminals 22 of the players and the server hosting the data base 26. This data base can be accessed also from the a series of Iottery validation terminals located at Iottery ticket retailers 26A, 26B, 26C etc. Thus the data base 26 is only accessed from secure terminals including the web site server 21 providing no access to hackers at the terminals 22. In this way the validation numbers, while they are available when the ticket has been played, are communicated only over secure links and the full list is only available to secure terminals. In this way, there is no requirement to encrypt the validation numbers.

The apparatus disclosed herein operates as follows as shown in the flow chart of Figure 6:

The apparatus for playing a first game by a plurality of players includes the series of tickets 10 each of which carries a validation number 17. The tickets include an instant win game which provides an apparatus for playing the first game arranged to reveal whether each player is a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize as printed on the ticket. This information can be validated and the prize claimed at a lottery terminal which can supply the cash at 26X either by direct payout from a machine or more typically by the clerk confirming the validation and paying the cash from the till.

Thus the player of that ticket can decide to take the cash payment at the lottery terminal or can decide to play games at the web site.

At the web site a first sub-program 40 acts to confirm whether a player is a winner of a prize of the first game from the data base 26 and acts to provide access to the web site 20A associated with the game for allowing communication through the internet with a player wishing to enter the web site from a remote terminal. The web site 20A includes at least one second game 27 to be played by the player. The cash available to the player to play the game includes an added bonus 26Y which is calculated based on data provide ion the ticket at 26Z. This indicates the cash bonus the player will receive for entering the web site rather than merely cashing out at the lottery terminal. As well as or instead of a cash bonus, the player may receive other incentive to play on the web site.

Thus the system acts to confirm that the player is a winner of a prize of the first game and provides entry of the player into said at least one second game on the web site using the prize as at least part of a stake in the second game.

As shown in Figure 6, the result of this play may be that the player immediately loses and checks out. Alternatively the player may go on to play more games (or to repeat the first game) typically until the player eventually loses all of the cash value or until the player wins a sufficiently large prize to make it worthwhile cashing out.

In this way the player who is a winner of prize on the first game can select to accept the prize redemption or to enter the web site to use the prize to play at least one second game.

The apparatus for playing the first game can comprise any type of game but typically this comprises a set of lottery tickets, the set of lottery tickets comprising a substrate having printed thereon, in one or more areas, game data covered by one or more areas of scratch-off coating which can be removed by a player to expose the game data, the exposed game data including an instant win game revealing whether the player is a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize.

The bonus cash value acts to provide an additional incentive for the player to select to enter the web site and play the second game.

The control system includes a further sub program arranged to allow the player of the second game to redeem a value of the player's holdings after playing the second game or after playing a series of the second games.

As shown at Figure 6, once the player has chosen to enter the web site and obtain the cash incentive, the control system is arranged to require the player to play at least one second game indicated at 27X before being allowed to redeem the holdings. The control system controlling the games in the web site is arranged such that the second games provide is a managed risk system which provides a maximum total redemption value to a plurality of players which is a proportion only of the total of the prizes entered by those players. Such games which comprise a plurality of games each arranged to pay out in total to players only a proportion of a total amount staked by the players are known and available..

As an alternative the game 27X can comprises an accumulating jackpot game in which the jackpot paid to a winning player is a proportion of the total amount staked by the players.

As explained above, each ticket includes at least one validation number 17 and there is provided a data base 26 containing a look-up-table including for each ticket said at least one validation number in association with a prize of the first game. The data base for validation is accessible from lottery retailers for determining the prize and is accessible for determining the prize for the web site and is maintained separated from the web site to prevent direct access by players accessing the web site to the data base, thus allowing the same validation number to be used without encryption for validation of the prize in both the lottery retailer and in the web site.

The arrangement where a player can select to cash out from the ticket or to enter the web site provides a parallel redemption path. In order that the system can detect where the player has selected on option to prevent simultaneous selection of the other option, this requires the data base 26 to updated in real time to note the redemption of the ticket concerned. Thus there is direct link between lottery terminal 26A and database 26 for the validation of tickets where the player has opted to redeem at the retailer.

The program 21 provides the ability for the player to use cash from the account to purchase merchandize as indicated at program 28.

The games 31 C to be played are on-line instant games.

The games 3 C to be played require different cash values 31 E, 31 F and 31 G.

The program 21 C provides the ability for the player to use cash from the account to cash out by selecting a program 31 H to provide a token to be printed out and redeemed at the lottery retailer.

The program 21 C provides the ability for the player to use cash from the account to enter a draw 31 B.

The program provides the ability for the player to use cash from the account to enter an auction using program 29.

The program provides the ability for the player to use cash from the account to give to charitable donations using program 30.

The program provides the ability for the player to enter further cash for the account. In this case, payment can be made by credit or other type of transactional card input in conventional manner.

However, the program also provides the option of entering cash by obtaining from a lottery retailer a cash input token or coupon where upon completion of the transaction the coupon can be used for entry onto the website as indicated at 35. In this case, the coupon contains a barcode or other number to facilitate the process either via a computer terminal with attached scanner or a similarly equipped mobile device.

Enter the Casino

The casino offers various play formats including slot machines. There are different levels of slots available. Entry is based on pre-determined numbers of cash per play. Play action is similar to a standard slot machine and offers, free plays, accumulating credits and even cash or merchandise prizes.

Players could cash out at any time.

Lottery Draws

The player could enter into draws for various lottery items or cash/merchandise prizes. Draws cannot be related to a specific game - see note below.

Virtual Prize Wheel

The player can spin a virtual wheel for a chance to win in a variety of different prize categories. For example they could spin to multiply their accumulated cash by some factor. For example, the values on the wheel could range from 1 to 1 ,000. Alternatively prizes could include a chance to win automatic entries into every 2nd chance draw conducted by the lottery for a predetermined period of time, predetermined number of draws or continuous.

Enter Auction

The auction is an auction house where players could bid to win prizes or packs being offered by the lottery. Unlike Ebay, LBay is based on a Dutch auction style in which the cash required to purchase decrement until such time as a Player agrees to pay the required cash in order to obtain the reward. Typically a multiple of the same item {ie. 20 lottery packs) is offered and even after 1 or more units is bought at a particular cash level, the required cash continues to decline until all offered are sold or there are no takers even at the lowest amount.

If multiple bids are received at the same cash level which exceeds the number of items being offered then the earliest bids win. We may want to consider allowing for pre-bids - a player submit a bid of x well in advance of reaching that level or even in advance of the start of the auction. If the auction reaches that level then the player's bid is automatically entered. This might deflect concern that people have to have access to a computer at all times and the need to monitor the action. Charitable Donations

Players could donate a portion of their accumulated cash to a list of charitable organizations within the state. For example charitable organizations could submit requests for support and a cost associated with the support being sought (animal shelter requesting x dog kennels at a cost of $1 ,000 per). The lottery assigns a cash level required to provide the items and players select an organization and donate cash accordingly.

The lottery might even consider allowing organizations (ie. service clubs) to collect tickets or entry data (in the case of winning tickets) from it's members and to apply the cash to the items they are seeking to obtain.

Accumulate cash by Scanning Codes on Tickets with a Mobile

Device/Smart Phone. Offer special promotions on select games that feature QR codes or other types of codes. Player scans the code with their mobile device for automatic access to the lottery website. Cash could be earned initially to encourage the use of this technology.

In order to cash out, the control system is arranged to print a redemption certificate usable by the player at a ticket retailer for redeeming the value.

Also the control system can be arranged to allow a player to purchase more credit at a ticket retailer and where in the ticket retailer is arranged to operate the control system to print a credit certificate having a validation number for entering into the web site.

As an alternative there can be provided a smart card 40 to be used by the player. This can be used as indicated at 40A to obtain purchased credit and from the lottery retailer and to enter such credit into the web site for play as indicated at 40B. At 40C is shown where the smart cars is used for redemption and the control system is arranged to enter onto the smart card information allowing the payment of the redemption cash to take place at a lottery retailer. Turning now to the third embodiment shown in Figures 7, 8 and 9 there is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of game tickets;

each ticket of the set of game tickets comprising:

the game data including a at least one game data element which the player uses to play the game;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

a first program component allowing communication with a player to enter the site from a remote terminal;

a second program component arranged to provide to the player at the terminal at least one additional game data element arranged to cooperate with said at least one game data element on the ticket such that the game played is dependent on both said at least one game data element on the ticket and said at least one additional game data element.

Preferably the substrate has printed thereon game information defining rules for playing the game using said at least one game data element which is exposed and one or more prizes to be won by winning tickets in accordance with the rules and the prize won by the ticket in accordance with the rules is dependent on both said at least one game data element on the ticket and said at least one additional game data element.

Preferably the substrate has printed thereon an identification number or code identifying the ticket and wherein the computer system includes a program component allowing entry by the player of the identification number or code identifying the ticket.

Many such tickets are used directly in a lottery situation so that the tickets have no other relevance other than the playing of the lottery or game by which the player may win monetary or other prizes as part of the lottery or gaming situation. However more attention has been recently given to the use of such tickets as promotional items used by manufacturers of other products to enhance the sale of the product.

The terminal as defined herein can be any technique available to the player to access the internet or the site including mobile devices such as Smart phones.

Preferably there is provided a program component for entering registration of personal details of a piayer entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player.

In one preferred arrangement, the one game data elements exposed on the ticket are arranged to determine, without the additional game data elements, and using the rules a first result of the game and the game data elements exposed on the ticket are arranged to determine, with the additional game data elements a second result of the game.

Thus the first result can be the winning of a first prize and the second result can be the winning of a second larger prize.

Thus the first result can be the winning of a first prize and the second result can be an increase in value of the first prize

Thus the first result can be the winning of no prize and the second result is the winning of a prize.

That is the player may win a prize on the first conventional play and then the value of the initial prize is increased as a result of the extension play on the internet. For example on a cross-word style ticket the player may match 5 words on the first play for a prize of $10 and then after obtaining 3 more letters from the internet access may now uncover a total of 7 words for prize of $100. The end result is that the player receives the second larger prize of $100 as the total payout.

In most cases, in order to manage the redemption of prizes, the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the tickets and the corresponding prize.

Preferably the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide, in association with the validation number, the second prize so that the player on redeeming the ticket receives the second prize regardless of whether or not the player has accessed the web site. However in an alternative arrangement, the programmed computer control system can be arranged to provide, in association with the validation number, the second or larger prize only when the player has actually accessed the web site. In this case the data base must be updated with the information from the access files of the web site.

For example, the programmed computer control system can be arranged such that said at least one additional game data element simulates a multi- player extension of the game. Thus for example, the play on the website could be in a simulated group setting of multiple players who compete against the player, such as a simulated Bingo game

For example, the programmed computer control system can be arranged such that said at least one additional game data element is used in an actual multi-player extension of the game.

In most cases for enhanced play, the additional game data elements are arranged such that said additional game data elements are entered into a game format defined on the ticket to supplement the game data elements already provided on the ticket. That is the play of the game continues with additional elements obtained from the internet web site. In this way a first part of the game can be played on the ticket with the second enhanced portion defined by the additional elements from the web site.

In one arrangement, the additional game data elements together with the game data element printed on the ticket are all pre-determined so that the ticket forms an instant win ticket with a result which is fully predetermined. That is the web site is programmed to generate predetermined symbols and in response to the input of the ticket identification number provides additionai symbols or letters which are pre-determined at the time that the game was generated initially. As a result the whole game remains wholiy predetermined.

In the alternative, the game data elements printed on the ticket are wholly pre-determined so that the ticket forms an instant win ticket with a result from the game date element printed thereon, while the additional game data elements defines a set of data elements from which the player can make a selection so that the whole game forms a probability game in which the result is dependent on the selection.

In this case the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the tickets in association with the selection made and therefore a prize result of said selection for payment of said prize result.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a lottery ticket type game which is a probability game.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for a probability game to be played by a plurality of players in which a result of the game for each player is not predetermined but is based on a probability, the apparatus comprising:

a set of game tickets; each ticket of the set of game tickets comprising:

a substrate having printed thereon, in one or more areas, game data including a at least one game data element which the player uses to play the game;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

a second program component arranged to provide to the player entering the site a set of additional data elements from which the player is required to make a selection;

wherein the ticket with said game data thereon and with said selection from said additional game data elements from the web site forms a probability game in which a result of the game is at least partly dependent on said selection.

Preferably said at least one game data element printed on the ticket forms a pre-determined instant win game. However this is not essential and the whole of the game may be based on the probability obtained by the selection on the site.

Preferably game data element on the ticket is covered by a covering such as a scratch-off layer which is removable by a player to expose the game data element. Other coverings can be used. Preferably the substrate has printed thereon game information defining rules for playing the game using the game data element or elements on the substrate and one or more prizes to be won by winning tickets in accordance with the rules.

Preferably the substrate has printed thereon an identification number or code identifying the ticket to enable the player to identify the ticket when entering the site.

Preferably the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the tickets in association with information defining the selection made so that a prize dependent on said selection is made available for redemption of the prize.

In one arrangement, the set of additional data elements can be printed on the ticket. However the result of that element is not available on the ticket and must be obtained by entering the chosen element into the web site, where the selection is recorded and cannot be changed.

For security reasons we will not print the additional game elements on the ticket. The player could simply scratchoff all possible choices and then enter the most beneficial one on the website. Instead there may be multiple choices contained on the ticket representing the additional data elements but it would consist of different entry numbers only to be entered on the website confirming the selection. In another arrangement, the set of additional data elements are shown on the web site and not on the ticket and the selection of one of them is entered on the web site.

Preferably the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the tickets in association with the selection made and therefore a prize result of said selection for payment of said prize result.

In order to maintain the interest of players it is important in marketing of such lottery tickets to provide extended play offerings and to preserve and expand the market for Crossword type games, which have become important over several years.

The objective is therefore to introduce features into an instant lottery ticket, which gives the player the option to enter a website in order to complete the play on the ticket or to participate in bonus play only available on the web. in each case there is a direct link between the ticket and the result generated on the website. Some examples of this type of feature are as follows:

The play extension concept is designed to provide the player with the chance to extend their play on a lottery website. Availability of this option can be dependent on the particular game being played. In some cases all players are eligible to participate while in other cases it may be restricted to losers or winners only or to other determining factors which define another subset such as only $10 winners. Basically the player purchases an instant ticket and plays the game normally. Once traditional play is complete the player has the option to enter a lottery or vendor sponsored website, where play continues. Play may take several different forms depending on the particular game. There are many examples of extended play format, some of which are set out hereinafter.

In a continued Play of Instant Ticket Game, a standard Crossword ticket can feature a separate, scratchable, INTERNET PLAY box under which there is an entry code. The player accesses a lottery website and after entering the code is directed to a game area where the player undertakes the required action to obtain additional letters which could be used to extend play on the conventional instant ticket. There can be a variety of methods by which the additional letter(s) can be generated. For example the site may feature a "Letter" slot machine which begins spinning when the handle is pulled. The wheel appears to be operating at random and display cascading letters as the wheel turns. However in reality the machine is programmed to stop at a pre-determined letter which is directly linked to the ticket in play. There may be one or more pulls involved in completing the extended play. The letter(s) then are used on the Crossword grids to determine if a winner can be created in the case of a loser or whether the prize value of the ticket is raised in the case of a winner.

Similarly for non-Crossword tickets, the wheel can reveal a play symbol which can be added to the play on the conventional ticket in order to increase the possibility of achieving the required result to be eligible to win a prize. For example ticket might be a standard Match 3 of 9 and the additional prize symbol makes it a Match 3 of 10.

In respect of matching, the concept of play extension consists of matching the result obtained through play on the internet site to the instant ticket to determine if there is a match of the information between the two. For example in the case of Crossword, the internet play action might reveal a word. If the word on the internet site matches one of the words on the instant ticket grid(s), even if the word is oniy partially uncovered or not uncovered, the piayer is eligible for a bonus prize. Similarly the ticket may contain a covered Bonus Box under which is a concealed symbol, word, etc. Internet play generates a symbol from the same set as found on the ticket itself. A match between the two results in a bonus win.

The Live Play concept takes the player onto a website where a multi- player extension of the instant game is played. The action can be simulated with virtual players and is available at any time or it may consist of a real game being played by several different participants. The real play option requires greater management because play has to scheduled and players are required to sign-in in advance, etc.

For example, on a conventional Bingo card there can be one or more grids printed on the ticket which are dedicated to play on-line only. If the game features simuiated play the instant piayer can sign in at anytime and play commences with a group of virtual players. Players sign in to a website at a specific time and play a live Bingo game jointly with all participants. The combination of play on a conventional ticket and on an internet site does create challenges in respect of extended play management not normally associated with an instant game. Some of these challenges are as follows:

A player who has purchased a ticket may not be interested in extending play on the internet. The graphics on the ticket highlight the extended play option and retailers will be trained to alert players to the added feature on particular tickets. However the circumstance will exist where a player may purchase a ticket and have no interest or perceived ability to continue. In this situation it needs to be determined how prizing and validation will be handled. The simplest approach is to award the additional prizes, if the ticket was eligible, at the time of redemption even if the option is not played. This option makes the management of the extended play option very easy because there is basically no change to the existing validation structure. The prize value of winning tickets remains constant as does the prize liability. The concerns is that the perceived value of the play extension could become minimized and participation levels may decline.

In the alternative, the system can be arranged to provide the second prize or increased prize only when the player has actually accessed the web site.

Another concern is that if a player, who has not participated on the web site takes a ticket to the retailer and inadvertently advises them that they believe they won $XX that the retailer could pay the anticipated prize and delay the actual on-line validation in hopes that in fact the prize level on that ticket has actually increased. Increase in winnings on internet-extended play games may be restricted to winning tickets only so that players who have lost on the traditional game(s) and who have chosen not to extend play on the internet do not destroy a ticket which is an actual winner. This approach reduces the potential attraction for a player to enter the website once it is known that only winners are being affected. The system should provide for the ability of a loser on the traditional game to upgrade to a winner and yet to address the concern of a loser on the traditional game who decides to not enter the internet.

Some of the concepts and the approach to handling validation/prizing require the ability to update the lottery validation file to change the status of a winning ticket or potentially convert an initial loser to a winner. One option is to change the validation methodology to allow for the validation file to be rewritten in a real-time environment as internet play proceeds.

An alternative is for ail games with an internet component to have a flag on the validation file and the validation file would contain validation numbers for all tickets not just winners. The system can therefore allow for a loser to convert to a winner based on the internet play extension. If the internet play is restricted to traditional game winners only, once a validation request is made the first check is to the validation file itself to determine whether the ticket is a winner. If the ticket is a winner, the validation process then checks a secondary file which contains a list of updated winners, sorted by validation number. If the validation number being verified is present on the first list only then that prize is awarded. If the validation number and prize appear on the second list then the alternate prize value is awarded. Once the award is made the status on both files is changed to "redeemed" and the overall prize liability for the game is updated.

If the internet play is open to all tickets regardless of win/lose status, once a validation request is made the first check is to the validation file itself to determine whether the ticket is a winner or a loser. If the ticket validation number appears on the validation file, the validation process then checks a secondary file which contains a list of updated winners, sorted by validation number. If the validation number being verified is present on the first list only then that prize is awarded. If the validation number and prize appear on the second list then the alternate prize value is awarded. Once the award is made the status on both files is changed to "redeemed" and the overall prize liability for the game is updated.

The option of internet play does make it possible to consider probability tickets which have not been accepted in the market place due to the security risks which are overcome or reduced in the present arrangement. Lotteries are interested in the probability style of play but there have been problems associated with this style of gaming on an instant ticket. The problems related to the security of the tickets because every ticket was a potential winner and secondly as to how validation and prize liability for the game are handled.

The play extension concept on the internet is therefore used for probability tickets and addresses some of the problems encountered previously with producing a probability ticket on an instant ticket only. For example a game called "Double or Nothing" can be provided in which the player scratches off the left hand portion of the ticket to determine if they are a winner. If the ticket is a winner then the player has the option to remove the scratchoff from 1 of 3 boxes to determine if the prize is doubled, unchanged or halved. Under each box is a different code. The player, once they have entered the website and input the validation number on the instant ticket, scratch off one box only and then enter the number within the box removed. Based on the validation number the computer identifies the outcome for the ticket. At the same time the computer system updates the lottery validation file to indicate the outcome of the play action. The remaining two codes cannot be entered subsequently nor can the player claim that the internet play option was not taken. The player of course has the option not to extend the play in which case the prize found on the left hand side prevails. The probability portion can also be operated so that the minimum result is to remain equal to previous winnings.

Similarly a Poker game can be provided in which the player initially reveals the dealers hand and their hand. If the ticket is a winner then play action does not continue. However if the hand loses then the player is directed to go to the website and continue play by selecting, for example Draw 1 , Draw 2 or Draw 3 indicating the number of cards to be replaced. Under the additional draw boxes are located the different codes for each choice. Once on the website, the player enters the uncovered code and the new hand is revealed. Similarly once the new code is entered the remaining two codes are disabled and the lottery validation system is updated as to the new status. Security on probability tickets was always the problem, in this case it does not matter if the player scratches off al! the three codes. In order to play the game on fine the player must select one code for entry and, once one code is entered, the other codes associated with the ticket are disabled. Even though the player has exposed all three codes, the player has no access, until the selection is entered, as to which is a winning code and which is a losing code.

Many other similar alternatives following the same themes described above can be developed within the concept described herein.

The apparatus shown in Figures 7 and 8 for use in a lottery game to be played by a plurality of players includes a set of lottery tickets 10 shown in Figure 8 and a programmed computer system 20 shown in Figure 9.

The set of lottery tickets includes a plurality of individual tickets 10A, 0B to 0X. The number of tickets can vary but typically the tickets are formed in books making up a complete set for a particular game. The books are provided as individual items to be sold by retailers to the public. Depending on the longevity of the game, the number of books can be large with many re-printings or can be much smaller for specific dedicated games.

The ticket further includes a validation number 17 and a bar code 18 related to the validation number allowing these to be used to validate any prize claimed by a player after playing the game by exposing the game data. The bar code and validation number can be left exposed or be covered before playing by a second area of scratch-off or by the same area 16. if the barcode and validation number are exposed then the validation number is incomplete. To ensure security some of the digits from the validation number are hidden from view under scratchoff.

If a barcode is hidden then it contains all of the necessary data to complete the validation process.

The game data 14 is thus covered by an area of scratch-off coating 16 which can be removed by a player to expose the game data with the exposed game data including an instant win game revealing whether the player is a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize.

As shown in Figure 8, the system 20 includes a programed computer

21 which forms a server which allows access to a web site by the player of the ticket from a terminal 22. The web site is associated with the tickets in that the validation number 17 when entered into an input 23 will allow access by the player into the web site 20A. The computer 21 communicates through the internet 25 with a player at the remote terminal 22 wishing to enter the web site 20A.

In Figure 8, the data base which carries the validation codes and the associated winning amounts, where applicable, is set up as a data base 26 separate from the web site 20A at the server 21. In this , way there is no direct access between the terminals 22 of the players and the server hosting the data base 26. This data base can be accessed also from a series of lottery validation terminals located at lottery ticket retailers 26A. Thus the data base 26 is only accessed from secure terminals providing no access to hackers at the terminals 22. In this way the validation numbers, while they are available when the ticket has been played, are communicated only over secure links and the full list is only available to secure terminals. In this way, there is no requirement to encrypt the validation numbers.

Turning therefore to Figure 8, this shows an apparatus for use in a lottery game to be played by a plurality of players. The apparatus comprises a set of lottery tickets 10 as previously described and the programmed computer control system 21.

The programed computer control system provides access to the web site 20A associated with the tickets 10. Communication is provided to the system 21 through the internet 25 with a player wishing to enter the web site from a remote terminal 22 such as a PC, phone, ceil or other access system.

The program in the server 21 allows entry by the player of the identification number or code 17 identifying the ticket. This entry can be carried out prior to playing the game on the ticket using the game data 14 or after, depending on the choice of the player. The entry into the web site of the code 17 allows access to a page 20A containing additional game data 14A.

Thus the web site includes a sub program arranged to provide to the player on the web site at the terminal at least one additional game data element 14A arranged to cooperate with the rules 13 printed on the ticket established in the system together with the game data elements 14 exposed on the ticket such that the prize won by the tickets in accordance with the rules 13 is dependent on both the game data elements 14 on the ticket and the additional game data element 14A.

In one arrangement, the game defined by the game data on the ticket and by the additional game data 14A can be played as two separate games so that the game data element exposed on the ticket are arranged to determine a first game result. This can be a winning or losing status and can include a prize amount of a predetermined amount. Also as a second game, the game data elements 14 exposed on the ticket are arranged to determine with the additional game data elements 14A, based on the rules, a second game result. Again this can be a winning or losing status and can include a prize amount of a predetermined amount. Typically the results are different from one another.

Thus the first result can be the winning of a first prize and the second result can be the winning of a second additional prize which can be larger or smaller.

Thus the first result can be the winning of no prize and the second result is the winning of a prize. Thus the first result can be the winning of a prize and the second result is the enlargement of the winning prize from the ticket only play.

As explained previously, the ticket includes a validation number 17 and the programmed computer control system 21 includes as part of the whole system a lottery terminal 26A for validation and redemption of the ticket by the player. Thus the lottery terminal is arranged to provide access to a data base 26 containing the validation numbers of the tickets and the corresponding prize.

In one arrangement, the programmed computer control system is arranged such that the output from the terminal 26A from the data base 26 provides the second prize so that the player on redeeming the ticket receives the second prize regardless of whether or not the player has accessed the web site, it will be appreciated that the game data 14A of the web site is always predetermined, even though it may appear to the player that it is determined randomly. In this way the second result generates a prize for winning tickets which is always fully predetermined.

As a second alternative, the ticket may be playable using only the game data 14 leading to a first prize result. In this case, the second prize may be paid to the ptayer only when the player has accessed the web site, as determined by a link 30 providing information from the server 21 to the data base 26.

The programmed computer control system controlling the game includes a print control component 31 generating the tickets and particularly the game data 14 thereon. In one arrangement, the programmed computer control system controlling the game is arranged such that said the additional game data elements 14A simulate a multi-player extension of the game.

in one arrangement, the programmed computer control system controlling the game is arranged such that said the additional game data elements 14A is used in an actual muiti-player extension of the game.

In one arrangement, the programmed computer control system controlling the game is arranged such that the game data elements 14 are firstly played using the game rules and such that the additional game data elements 14A are entered into the same game format defined on the ticket to supplement the game data elements 14 already provided on the ticket. In this way the game simulates a situation where the player firstly plays the ticket and then goes onto the web site to obtain further data to extend the play on the ticket.

In a predetermined instant win type game, the additional game data elements 14A and the original game data element 14 printed on the ticket are all pre-determined so that the ticket and the further play both form an instant win ticket with a result which is predetermined and recorded on the data base 26.

Turning now to the arrangement shown in Figure 9, the apparatus is used to generate a probability game which is not predetermined in that a selection by the player will determine a different outcome depending on the selection made. In this arrangement, the game data elements 14 printed on the ticket are predetermined so that the ticket forms an instant win ticket with the result from the game date elements printed thereon which is predetermined.

In this arrangement however, there is provided a set of data elements 14B from which the player can make a selection 14E. In this way the ticket with the further set defines a probability game in which the result is dependent on the selection.

In one arrangement, the set of additional data elements 14B, 14C and 14D are printed on the ticket but the selection of one of them must be entered into the web site as indicated at 14F before the result of that selection is revealed.

in another arrangement, the set of additional data elements 14G, 14H and 14J are shown on the web site and not on the ticket and the selection of one of them is entered on the web site.

In order to calculate the resultant prize to be paid out on the probability ticket, the ticket includes a validation number 17 and the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide access to a data base 40 containing the validation numbers 42 of the tickets in association with the selection made 43 and therefore a prize result 44 of said selection for payment of said prize result. In order to communicate the selection made, there is a connection 45 between the server 21 defining the site and the server carrying the data base 40.

In this arrangement, as the player must enter the selection made into the web site over which he has no control, the result of the probability game is dependent on the validation number of the ticket, the security for which is well established and the information of the selection which is held in secure manner on the web site. In this way the concerns previously arising over the security of probability games has been overcome.

Turning now to the fourth embodiment shown in Figures 0 and 11 is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

at least one set of tickets arranged for playing a lottery game;

a programmed computer system providing:

communication through a network with remote terminals each associated with one of the plurality of players;

a site accessible by the remote terminals;

a sub-program for entering registration of a player entering the site and for communicating with the remote terminal of the player and optionally with retailers;

a sub-program generating one or more groups of the registered players and causing association of selected ones of the players in a selected one of the groups.

The games concerned are preferably instant win type games where the result is entirely predetermined, since such games are generally preferred in a lottery situation in order to ensure that the total winnings is predetermined. However the present invention is not limited to the type of game to be played and can include probability or other games which include game indicia covered by a scratch-off coating. The construction may also be used in situations where the main objective is for other purposes than gambling such as in promotional games or games of fun for children or others where no gambling or prizes are involved.

The lottery tickets can be of the instant win type where there is a substrate having printed thereon, in one or more areas, game data covered by one or more areas of scratch-off coating which can be removed by a player to expose the game data revealing whether the player is a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize.

Alternatively the set of lottery tickets could include lotto-style tickets in which the player or computer system, on beha!f of the player, pre-selects a series of numbers for a draw to be held at a later date. Once the numbers are selected, the computer system prints a ticket for the player and adds that sequence and related information to a data base for verification purposes post-draw.

The tickets concerned can include pull tabs, conventional bingo paper products and non-lottery promotional games.

The association of a player with a group can be selected by the player themselves to associate in groups of common interest or commonly known to one another. Alternatively the association of a player with a group can be selected by entry of a location or residence of the player so that for example the group contains all players within a selected geographical area. As another possibility, the association of a player with a group can be selected by other factors known by the computer system such as by time of entry by the player of a winning ticket.

In order to encourage membership of use of the system and the site associated therewith preferably the programed computer system is arranged to generate a second chance prize. To encourage group participation, the prize can be paid to all members of a winning group. Also the system can provide other rewards to a player for fostering group participation by other piayers in the group. Also the system can provide other rewards to a player for introducing other players into the group. Also the system can provide other rewards when another member of the group wins a prize.

The term "second chance game" can include a variety of game styles that can be played under the designation as a second chance game and this is not limited to the type of game in which a random draw is made from all entries from a single game.

For example the second chance game can include random awards, such as the last X people that registered a ticket from this game receive a share of a prize or coupons for a free ticket. Another concept is for the ticket to feature a single digit, ietter, etc. Participants enter their ticket info, including this character within the group.

As another encouragement to use the system, the programed computer system can be arranged to share information on the tickets with players associated with the group to enable strategic purchase of tickets by the players within the group.

As another encouragement to use the system, the programed computer system can be arranged to provide a second chance group game to be played commonly by members of the group, such as for example using material or data obtained from tickets purchased by members of the group.

Preferably there is provided a sub-program defining an app (application) arranged to be downloaded into the remote terminal of each one of the players providing access by the remote terminal of that player to the site.

Preferably there is provided a computer controlled validation data base containing data relating to the set of lottery tickets and those tickets thereof which have been played by the players to win a prize and the value of that prize and the programed computer system provides communication with the computer controlled validation data base.

Preferably the programed computer system is arranged for entering information from the remote terminal of a player entering the site, the information relating to the playing of the game and provides a sub-program for communicating the entered information from the player to the remote terminal of one or more of others of the players.

According to one aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

at least one set of tickets, either instant scratchoff or lotto style;

a programmed computer providing:

a site accessible by the remote terminals;

a sub-program or program component defining an app arranged to be downloaded into the remote terminal of each one of the players providing access by the remote terminal of that player to the site. Preferably the programed computer system is arranged such that access to the site through the app is provided by a code printed on one of the tickets.

Preferably the programed computer system is arranged to communicate information relating to the ticket to all remote terminals which have downloaded the app.

at least one set of game tickets, either instant scratchoff or lotto style; a programmed computer system;

a computer controlled validation data base containing data relating to the set of lottery tickets and those tickets thereof which have been played by the players to win a prize and the value of that prize;

the programed computer system providing:

communication with the computer controlled validation data base.

Preferably the programed computer system is arranged to obtain information from the computer controlled validation data base as to which prizes of the game have been won. That is there can be provided a plurality of sets of different tickets each providing a different game and wherein the programed computer system is arranged to obtain information from the computer controlled validation data base as to the status of prizes already won and stiil outstanding in all of the sets. This allows the players access to the information allowing strategic purchasing of tickets. Thus preferably the programed computer system is arranged to communicate status of prizes already won and still outstanding to the remote terminals for all players to see. In addition, preferably the programed computer system is arranged to communicate information relating to the location of tickets for sale in a geographical area so that the players are encouraged to purchase. The communication can be arranged as unsolicited messages transmitted as texts or emails to the remote terminals, typically the ubiquitous smart phones.

at least one set of tickets, either instant scratchoff or lotto style;

a programmed computer system providing:

a site accessible by the remote terminals;

a sub-program for communicating with the remote terminal of the player and for entering information from the remote terminal of a player entering the site, the information relating to the playing of the game; a sub-program for communicating the entered information from the player to the remote terminai of one or more of others of the players.

For example the information communicated to the other players relates to:

-location of purchase of a winning ticket or player's position.

-the prize of a winning ticket or a generic indication that a win did occur with disclosure of the value being withheld by the player for privacy reasons.

- the identity or avatar of a player of a winning ticket.

The information can be entered directly by the player into the remote terminal as a response to a prompt by the system or can be entered automatically by the remote terminai such as by GPS location or other scanned material or from other sensors.

For example the information relates to comments on the game by the player or player / ticket preferences.

The players to whom the information is communicated can be selected from an identified group rather than the whole complement of players registered with the site. This can be the group to which the player has selected to belong, a group determined by location of the players, a group determined by a time of entry of a winning ticket or a group formed using other criteria..

Preferably the programed computer system is arranged such that the information entered is taken from authentication data printed on the ticket.

Preferably the programed computer system is arranged such that registered players can play a second chance game or other form of game as conceived by the lottery as part of the encouragement or motivation to register. For example the second chance game can provide a prize dependent upon the number of players in the group.

in addition the system can be arranged to communicate to players though another communication medium such as other social media.

It is therefore a significant advancement in the expansion of the lottery marketplace to support continuation of the growth of lottery revenues and which appeals to a broader range of instant player, !n order to achieve these results, especially in regards to the younger demographic, it means a change in how tickets are purchased and played, including alternative or extended internet-based play and increased social interaction. While the changes are being introduced it will be necessary to maintain impulse purchase motivation and the current player group.

The changes herein provide methods which utilize new and existing social networks to generate the desire to purchase instant tickets, based on the inter-change of information provided by other users versus conventional impulse buying when in a retail location. Exchange of information involved in this effort includes:

-individual player results including winning information;

-optional player / ticket preferences;

-geographical information relating to winning retail locations including game and prize values; -game information relating to the remaining prize pool;

-geographic and inventory information relating to retailers within a geographic region at which tickets are available for sale for specified games;

-individual rewards for fostering group participation;

-group participation towards shared prizing.

The strategic purchase concept will be enhanced by different methods designed to reward the instant scratchoff player for their efforts in self-promotion of the various products to their friends and associates.

Further incentives are provided which result in shared benefits between the group members in order to foster continued expansion and benefits.

Different aspects of the invention are as follows:

Method to utilize social network to promote game experience by the player. After completion of play on a conventional ticket, the player scans a code (QR code or other format) located on the ticket, point of sale materia!, advertisement, etc. using a smart phone or other mobile device.

If the code is located on the ticket, it may be unique or generic and in addition may be covered by scratch off materia!. To scan the code, the player uses an app, which is downloaded from the lottery or other source, Once the link is established, the player is required to register if new or log into an existing account.

The player may have an individual account or participate in an account with a pre-determined group of "friends". Once the log in or registration is complete player may enter comments as to play experience, preference and optionally provide a photo of the ticket or themselves.

The player is also prompted to enter geographic location for the retailer or their current location or to allow the mobile device to make this determination. This process may be automated with the retailer-specific information being embedded in the codes positioned on the point-of-sale material at a specific retailer or alternately could be determined, through the lottery inventory data-base if the code on the ticket is unique or through the GPS feature on the mobile device itself..

If the player is part of a group then their commentary, retailer information, etc. can be posted on a social media website(s) for all of their "friends" and other users.

The web site also provides a method to authenticate and distribute winning information. If the ticket is a potential winner, then the player identifies this during the log-in process. The player is prompted to enter ticket validation information, located on the ticket, in order to authenticate the ticket. Data entry may be automated via scan capability if the ticket features a unique code or manual. Once the authentication process is complete and accepted, if the instant ticket is a winner, the operator (PBL or lottery) is notified of the win and geographic location. The player selects an avatar or take a photo of themselves, their ticket or some other object to create a visual image that represents them. The photo can be taken using their mobile device or a device at the retail location. Alternatively, the photo could be set at the time of the app download and regularly updated if desired. This image is uploaded, possibly along with their username and location (general location such as city, zip code area, etc., or a specific location) and posted to any number of displays including:

-social media website(s) for sharing with the player's friends and other users of those websites;

-lottery website, lottery social media sites and lottery player's club: the wins (both # of wins and $ value) may be shown as cumulative totals. Mid and high tier wins may also be displayed as distinct messages for a predetermined period;

-lottery digital advertising displays in proximate retail locations or all retail locations for other players to see, prompting more purchases based on the success of other players;

-digital billboards within a predetermined distance from the purchase location;

sent out to users who have downloaded the app.

The lotteries may, in addition utilize an augmented reality component where the mobile device shows the player where the winners are in their area, by neighborhood, zip code, city, etc., and where the retailers are located within the targeted location.

The map feature of the mobile device could display all wins in that geographic area. Potentially, the player's friends and their retailers could be indicated by use of a special icon. The map could be used as the graphic of the landing page so anyone who visits the site sees the winners.

The web site also provides a method to promote strategic ticket purchases based on unclaimed winning information where the site is used to communicate information on the status of the game.

The web site also provides the possibility to expand ability of lotteries or organizers to use augmented reality to enhance the experience beyond the use described herein. That is the lotteries may, in addition utilize an augmented reality component to enhance the experience such as where the mobile device shows the piayer within the targeted location.

The web site also provides the option of collecting points as a form of reward. That is points can be collected via different routes including: visiting retail locations and entering location specific info via scanning a code displayed on POS material, mobile device GPS or other means; completing surveys or participating in focus groups. In this regard reference is made to copending Provisional Application

61/437,444 filed January 28 2011 by the present Assignee, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The web site can use alternate methods of game play, for example: use of computer-generated tickets which are played on the mobile device; electronic scratch tickets which simulate conventional play, that is scratching, pulling off a tab, etc. to reveal a win status and scanning of a code only etc.

Through ticket validation system the lottery is able to identify in reai- time the status of all potential winners within the game and whether they have been redeemed. This is especially important for mid to high tier winners. On a separate inventory control system, which operates independent of the validation system the lottery also knows how many books of ticket are currently available and the retailer locations, who have inventory available for a specific game.

As a game proceeds, the site acts to post information on social networks to all registered participants on a game by game basis concerning the outstanding prize pool and the quantity of tickets books available at specific retailers within a geographic location, neighbourhood, work, city, etc. Players are able to track the results and to make decisions as to which tickets they will purchase based on the outstanding prizes and identify retailers within their geographic region where tickets are available for sale. If a game is approaching the end and there is still a disproportionate numbers of winners outstanding then this information can be utilized to plan purchases based on an odds of winning which may greater than the odds posted for the game itself.

The web site also provides a method for "Share the Wealth" feature that encourages and facilitates group play and/or the sharing of prizes among established friends/groups. There are a variety of different formats that could be followed to Share the Wealth.

This can be in a pyramid style where a group is established by 1 player who invites friends to participate with them in pooling of their 2nd chance or other game winnings. Groups can be ongoing and cover all available tickets or can be established for one game only. Friends are required to download the app, play the game{s) and enter their tickets. When they register, players have to identify the group they wish to join including the name of the friend that invited them. Once the entry process is complete their profile will be linked to the player who invited them, if any of original player's friends win from the instant game and authenticate their ticket through the lottery app, that player also receives a prize or coupon for a free ticket, etc.

Optionally, the reward concept can be extended down to lower levels as the group expands so that there could be multiple tiers. All the tickets entered into the 2nd chance draw or alternative style of game by any and all members of this group of players will be for the benefit of the members of the group. Winnings may be restricted to those who have entered ticket(s). Winnings may be proportionate to the number of entries by each individual. The amount of the prize to be awarded could be pre-determined or may vary by the number of entries posted by that group, eg. prize table:

Alternatively, the amount of the prize could be determined by the number of members in a group. There may be a leaderboard or chat board that tracks the status of each group, generating competition between groups.

The group could also function without the rewards for the player{s) extending the invitation and all benefits are shared equally by the participants.

Other types of groups can be formed, some of which do not require prior registration and could be determined up to the time of the draw. Examples of these types of groups could be:

-all users that purchase a ticket from the same retailer share proportionately in the 2nd chance draw prize(s);

-all active users within the defined geographic space (eg. zip code area) share proportionately in the 2nd chance draw prize(s);

-all players that purchase a ticket within a defined time period share proportionately in the 2nd chance draw prize(s);

random awards, such as the last X people that registered a ticket from this game receive a share of a prize or coupons for a free ticket;

all retailers that have sold some number of tickets from this game within a defined geographic space or within a defined time period.

In order to be able to participate in these types of draws, the player may be required to enter their ticket information in a timely manner possibly including retailer location, etc. The award of prizes is designed to reward players for their active participation.

The "Share the Wealth" jackpot could be separate from the prizes associated with the physical ticket, and could take the form of a rolling jackpot that accumulates as the number of participants or qualifying purchases increase. When opting in for "Share the Wealth", the user registers their picture or avatar and username. Optionally, the "Share the Wealth" feature could require the player to pay an additional sum of money to opt in, and this sum or a portion thereof is added to the rolling jackpot.

Alternatively, the "Share the Wealth" jackpot could be incorporated into the regular prize structure. The jackpot could be insured if significantly less than 100% redemption of the Share the Wealth prizes is expected.

The web site also provides methods for group play. Group play is an important component and reinforces the sharing of information amongst participants beyond the Share the Wealth format.

Players are encouraged to invite others to participate in a game or series of games, and will benefit from having others register, play, enter into related draws and/or participate in some way. When another person participates, they will be linked to the original player. The link between players will exist for that particular game(s) and associated draws, etc. or for a series of games.

As players participate or are successful in winning on instant games, the player who initiated the group may also benefit through the awarding of free tickets, coupons, credits, etc.

Alternatively benefits that are accrued as a result of participant activities could be pooled and applied to the group collectively.

The group play experience couid be motivated by the use of a time component, that is if X users enter a ticket in the next Y minutes, they get a bonus coupon, free play, fun animation or other added value opportunity

Physical tickets could be designed which offer play features which encourage players to work together in order to achieve a common prize. In its simplest form, the ticket may feature a collectable section in which different elements from several tickets have to be collected in order to qualify. One example could be a photograph which has been subdivided into several individual components, one of which is be printed on each ticket and covered with scratchoff. Groups pool their findings in order to increase their chances of finding a winning result.

Another concept is for the ticket to feature a single digit, letter, etc.

Participants enter their ticket info, including this character within the group. Once entered the individual digits are linked based on the time entered to form a string of numbers. The string grows as the number of entries increases. At some point the entry process stops for all groups and the lottery randomly generates a winning number. If the group's accumulated number contains that particular string of numbers in consecutive order, they are eligible to win the associated prize. Odds of winning will depend directly on the number of accumulated entries.

Alternately prizing could be based on the string of numbers in order across the entire range, which would increase the odds of winning. Another alternative would be to print 2 numbers on each ticket from a pre-determined range (ie. 00 - 49) and to provide an automated entry into a future on-line lotto draw for every set of numbers (ie. 6 that the groups acquires) Other types of schemes would utilize the same concept. For example each ticket could feature a playing card which is entered and a poker hand is automatically created once the predetermined set is accumulated (ie. 5). Winnings could be based on pre-determined hands or the lottery could randomly generate a "Hand to Match" after the closure of entries to avoid groups collecting cards without entering them in order to build hands.

Alternatively as group participants enter ticket information they are provided the opportunity to select a number, letter, etc. at random and these selections are combined in order to create the string of characters outlined above. There are of course several different variations to this type of theme which can be implemented.

The apparatus shown in Figures 10 and 11 for use in a lottery game to be played by a plurality of players includes a set of lottery tickets 10 shown in Figure 10 and a programmed computer system shown in Figure 11.

The set of lottery tickets includes a plurality of individual tickets 10A,

10B to 10X. The number of tickets can vary but typically the tickets are formed in books making up a complete set for a particular game. The books are provided as individual items to be sold by retailers to the public. Depending on the longevity of the game, the number of books can be large with many re-printings or can be much smaller for specific dedicated games. All the tickets of one set relate to a particular lottery game which has winning and losing tickets where the winning tickets can carry prizes of different levels from low tier prizes of a few dollars to high tier prizes which can be very large. Typically different protocols are used to redeem small and large prizes.

Lotteries of this type are managed by Lottery Organizations and they typically retail a number of different games through the retailers. Thus additional sets of tickets for different games will be available in the Lottery system managed by a management system including various data bases. In particular the system includes a computer controlled validation data base as part of a validation system where the holder of a winning ticket can provide the ticket to a terminal at a retailer and determine whether the ticket is confirmed as a winning ticket and if so what is the prize value associated with the ticket.

The game data 4 is thus covered by an areas of scratch-off coating 6 which can be removed by a player to expose the game data with the exposed game data including an instant win game revealing whether the player is a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize.

A section 19 of the ticket s dedicated to information relating to an associated web site to be accessed for second chance play or other form of game or for information exchange. This gives to the player the information necessary for the player to optionally enter the second chance game system managed on the web site. A code 19A is also printed onto the ticket in the game area which can be read and decoded using a mobile phone or similar camera device which allow the code to be entered into a program for decoding either on the device or remotely. This can be used to provide automatic access to the web site from the scanning phone system.

As shown in Figure 11 there is provided a computer system which provide the web site identified on the ticket.

This comprises a control computer 21 which communicates through the internet 22 and/or through a phone network 23 with a respective one of a plurality of remote terminals 24A, 24B to 24X each associated with a respective player of a respective ticket 25A, 25B to 25X, after playing the game of the ticket, wishing to enter the web site.

The computer 21 includes a sub-program 21A for entering registration of personal details of a player entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player in a data base 25.

The apparatus therefore includes the programmed computer system 21 which includes a communication sub-program 21 A and 21 B for communication through the internet and through a separate telephone network. The computer therefore provides the site accessible by the remote terminals 24A to 24X. The remote terminals 24A are typically conventional smart phones which provide an input 29A, a display 29B, a GPS location system 29C and a camera scanning system 29D.

The computer further provides a sub-program 21 D for entering registration of a player entering the site by communication with the remote terminal of the player. The sub-program 21 D operates the management of the second chance game system and the registration of all player and ticket details when entered by the player. Thus the sub-program receives and stores information from the player remote terminal which identifies the registration details of the player 30 at 30A.

It also stores information relating to the location 30B of the player which is typically the site at which the player purchases a ticket which forms the basis of the entry but can also be the main residence of the player, current location, etc.. This can be entered by the player directly in response to a prompt through the communication protocol, or can be entered by the GPS system 29C of the terminal 24A, or it can be entered by data scanned from the ticket in the code 19A which can be used to identify the retailer location.

it also stores information relating to the winning ticket 30C of the player. This information can be entered by the player directly in response to a prompt through the communication protocol, or it can be entered by data scanned from the ticket in the code 19A which can be used to identify the specific ticket.

It also stores information relating to ticket and player preferences 30 D of the player. This information can be obtained by analysis of the player's entries from tickets played, or it can be entered by the player in response to a prompt.

It also stores information relating to groups 30E to which the player is determined to belong. This information can be obtained by analysis of the player's entries from tickets played, or it can be entered by the player at 30G in response to a prompt. Or it can be determined by the system for example at 30F by associating in groups the players using a particular retailer location or set of retailer locations within a particular area. Or it can be determined by the system for example by associating in groups the players entering a winning ticket at a particular time range at 30H.

Thus the sub-program generates one or more groups 30E of the registered players and causes association of selected ones of the players in a selected one of the groups based on selection criteria determined by the system.

In order for the terminals 24A to communicate with the site defined by the computer 21 though the network 23, it is necessary for a sub-program defining an app 32 to be downloaded into the remote terminal of each one of the players on request providing access by the remote terminal of that player to the site.

The lottery system also includes a computer controlled validation data base 33, 34 and provides communication between the computer 21 and the computer 33..

This can be used to obtain information from the computer controlled validation data base 33 as to which prizes of the game have been won and to the status of prizes already won and still outstanding in ail of the sets of the games.

The system also provided the sub-program 21 B for communicating the entered information from the player to the remote terminal of one or more of others of the players. The information can be as previously described including the purchase of a winning ticket, the prize of a winning ticket, the identity or avatar of a player of a winning ticket, comments on the game, player / ticket preferences. The players to whom the information is communicated form an identified group. The programed computer system is arranged such that registered players can play a second chance game which provides a prize dependent upon the number of players in the group.

The system can communicate to players though the network 23 to the smart phones of the players or through another communication medium such as facebook. The communication is typically provided as unsolicited messages

In addition to the prize information from the computer 33, the same source, through a separate inventory data base 36, can also provide information relating to the location of tickets for sale in a geographical area where tickets for a specific game remain available.

The game management system is shown schematically at 35 on which the ticket control and the management of second chance games or draws including prizes and modes of payment of those prizes to members of a group are determined and controlled.

That is the programed computer system is arranged to provide a group game in which a winning status is determined using components from different players of the selected one of the groups, which components are combined. Thus the group game can be played using material provided by the players or data obtained from tickets purchased by players of the selected one of the groups.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of game tickets;

each ticket of the set of game tickets comprising:

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

a second program component allowing entry into a data base of the number of points awarded by the respective ticket;

and a third program component arranged to maintain an account of a points total held by a player by adding points awarded by the tickets played by that player and deducting points used by the player on the site;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player using the points.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the programed computer includes information defining, for each of the tickets of the set, the number of points awarded by that respective ticket.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the programed computer includes a program component allowing entry by the registered player of a points entry number from a played ticket.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the substrate includes an indication of a number of points awarded to the player.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the exposed game data includes a points entry number identifying the ticket.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the game data on each ticket defines an instant win game revealing whether the player is a loser or a winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the number of points awarded on a ticket is independent of the prize.

8. The apparatus according to claim 6 or 7 wherein points are awarded on both winning and losing tickets.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the programed computer includes a program component for entering registration of personal details of a player entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the number of points awarded by the tickets is different on different tickets and the number is revealed only on exposing the game data.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the number of points awarded is set out in a Player's Point area, which is part of the game data area and covered by the same covering.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11 wherein each of the set of tickets has at least a minimum number of points awarded which minimum number is published in association with the set.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12 wherein higher points numbers are placed on losing tickets only while winning tickets are assigned the minimum number of points.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein each of the tickets has printed thereon a validation number for use in entering into a data base to obtain validation of the prize and wherein each of the tickets has printed thereon a points entry number defining the number of points and wherein the points entry number is different from the validation number and wherein the validation number is not stored on nor accessible by the programed computer.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14 wherein the programed computer includes a program component identifying a plurality of different tiers of membership by players and for placing each player in a respective tier of membership.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15 wherein the tier of membership is selected by the program component based on the number of points added to the account by points awarded from played tickets.

17. The apparatus according to claim 15 or 16 wherein the program component is arranged to provide benefits to the player increasing with each higher membership tier reached.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 17 wherein the set of tickets includes as prizes thereon an award of memberships to a selected tier independent of the number of points awarded to the player.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 18 wherein different tiers give different points value of the games to be played.

20. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19 wherein the plurality of games to be played are on line instant games.

21. The apparatus according to claim 20 wherein the games to be played require different points values.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 21 wherein the programed computer includes a program component which allows for the player to use points from the account to do one or more of the following actions: to cash out; to enter a draw; to enter an auction; to give to charitable donations; to purchase merchandize.

23. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 22 wherein the programed computer includes a program component which allows for the player to purchase points for the account.

24. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 23 wherein the programed computer includes a program component which allows the option of purchasing points from a lottery retailer who upon completion of the transaction will provide the player with a coupon for entry of the purchased points onto the site.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24 wherein the coupon contains a barcode to facilitate the process either via a computer terminal with attached scanner or a similarly equipped mobile device.

26. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 25 wherein each ticket is separated into a main portion and a stub portion joined to the main portion and separable therefrom by a perforation and wherein an indication of the number of points is printed is printed on the stub portion.

27. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 26 wherein the ticket has printed thereon a code that can be scanned by a mobile device for automatic access site.

28. The apparatus according to claim 27 wherein the programed computer includes a program component which allows the player to earn bonus points if they use the mobile device to scan the code.

29. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of game tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players; each ticket of the set of game tickets being arranged on playing by the player to reveal whether each player is a loser or winner of a prize and if so the value of that prize;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the game tickets;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player;

30. The apparatus according to claim 28 wherein the programed computer system includes a program for entering registration of personal details of a player entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player.

31. The apparatus according to claim 28 or 29 wherein each ticket of the set of game tickets comprises a substrate having printed thereon, in one or more areas, game data covered by one or more areas of covering material which can be removed by a player to expose the game data, the exposed game data including an instant win game.

32. The apparatus according to any one of claims 28 to 31 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to provide an additional incentive for the player to select to enter the web site and play the second game.

33. The apparatus according to claim 32 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the incentive comprises an increase in a monetary value of the prize.

34. The apparatus according to any one of claims 28 to 33 wherein the programed computer system includes a further program arranged to allow the player of the second game to redeem a value of the player's holdings after playing the second game.

35. The apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to require the player to play at least one second game before being allowed to redeem said value.

36. The apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to print a redemption certificate usable by the player at a ticket retailer for redeeming said value.

37. The apparatus according to any one of claims 34 to 36 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to allow the player to redeem said value to purchase merchandize.

38. The apparatus according to any one of claims 28 to 37 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that said at least one second game is a managed risk game which provides a maximum total redemption value to a plurality of players which is a proportion only of a total amount staked by those players.

39. The apparatus according to claim 38 wherein said at least one game comprises a plurality of games each arranged to pay out in total to players only a proportion of a total amount staked by the players.

40. The apparatus according to claim 38 wherein said at least one game comprises an accumulating jackpot game in which the jackpot paid to a winning player is a proportion of a total amount staked by the players.

41. The apparatus according to any one of claims 28 to 40 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to allow a player to purchase more credit at a ticket retailer and wherein the programed computer system is arranged to print a credit certificate having a validation number for entering into the site.

42. The apparatus according to any one of claims 28 to 41 wherein there is provided a plurality of smart cards each arranged to be used by a respective player for credit and for redemption and wherein the programed computer system is arranged to enter onto the smart card information allowing the payment of credit and the redemption of the value of holdings to take place at a lottery retailer.

43. The apparatus according to any one of claims 28 to 2 wherein each ticket includes at least one validation number and wherein there is provided a data base containing a look-up-table including for each ticket said at least one validation number in association with a prize of the first game and wherein the data base for validation is accessible from lottery retailers for determining the prize and is accessible for determining the prize for the site and wherein the data base is maintained separated from the site to prevent direct access by players accessing the site to the data base, thus allowing the same validation number to be used without encryption for validation of the prize in both the lottery retailer and in the site.

44. The apparatus according to claim 43 wherein the data base is updated in real time.

45. The apparatus according to any one of claims 28 to 44 wherein said at least one second game is an on-line instant game.

46. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

47. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player;

and wherein the programed computer system is arranged to enter onto the smart card information allowing the payment of credit and the redemption of the value of holdings to take place at a lottery retailer.

48. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of tickets for playing a first game by a plurality of players;

each ticket includes at least one validation number identifying the ticket;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

the site including at least one second game to be played by the player;

wherein there is provided a data base containing a look-up-table for validation inciuding for each ticket said at least one validation number in association with the prize of the first game;

49. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

a set of game tickets;

each ticket of the set of game tickets comprising;

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

50. The apparatus according to claim 49 wherein the substrate has printed thereon game information defining rules for playing the game using said at least one game data element which is exposed and one or more prizes to be won by winning tickets in accordance with the rules and wherein the prize won by the ticket in accordance with the rules is dependent on both said at least one game data element on the ticket and said at least one additional game data element.

51. The apparatus according to claim 49 wherein the substrate has printed thereon an identification number or code identifying the ticket and wherein the computer system includes a program component allowing entry by the player of the identification number or code identifying the ticket.

52. The apparatus according to any one of claims 49 to 51 wherein there is provided a program component for entering registration of personal details of a player entering the web site and for storing data identifying each player.

53. The apparatus according to any one of claims 49 to 52 wherein said at least one game data element exposed on the ticket is arranged to determine without said at least one additional game data element a first result of the game which may include a first prize and wherein said at least one game data element exposed on the ticket is arranged to determine with said at least one additional game data element a second result of the game which may include a second prize.

54. The apparatus according to claim 53 wherein the first result is the winning of a first prize and the second result is the winning of an additional prize which may be larger or smaller.

55. The apparatus according to claim 53 wherein the first result is the winning of no prize and the second result is the winning of a prize.

56. The apparatus according to any one of claims 53 to 55 wherein the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the set of tickets and the corresponding prizes and wherein the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide on a winning ticket, in association with the validation number, both the first and the second prize so that the player on redeeming the winning ticket receives the second prize regardless of whether or not the player has accessed the site.

57. The apparatus according to any one of claims 53 to 56 wherein the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the set of tickets and the corresponding prizes and wherein the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide on a winning ticket, in association with the validation number, the second prize only when the player has accessed the site.

58. The apparatus according to any one of claims 49 to 57 wherein the programmed computer system is arranged such that said at least one additional game data element simulates a multi-player extension of the game.

59. The apparatus according to any one of claims 49 to 58 wherein the programmed computer control system is arranged such that said at least one additional game data element is used in an actual multi-player extension of the game.

60. The apparatus according to any one of claims 49 to 59 wherein said at least one additional game data element is arranged such that said additional game data element is entered into a game format defined on the ticket to supplement the game data elements already provided on the ticket.

61. The apparatus according to any one of claims 49 to 60 wherein said at least one additional game data element and said at least one game data element printed on the ticket are pre-determined so that the ticket forms an instant win ticket with a result which is predetermined.

62. The apparatus according to any one of claims 49 to 61 wherein said at least one game data element printed on the ticket is pre-determined so that the ticket forms an instant win ticket with a result from said at least one game data element printed thereon which is predetermined and said at least one additional game data element defines a set of data elements from which the player can make a selection such that said at least one additional game data element forms with the game on the ticket a probability game in which the result is dependent on said selection.

63. The apparatus according to claim 62 wherein the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the tickets in association with the selection made on the site and so as to provide to the player a prize result dependent on said selection for payment of a prize.

64. Apparatus for a probability game to be played by a plurality of players in which a result of the game for each player is not predetermined but is based on a probability, the apparatus comprising:

a set of game tickets;

each ticket of the set of game tickets comprising:

and a programmed computer system;

the programed computer system comprising:

a site associated with the tickets;

65. The apparatus according to ciaim 64 wherein said at least one game data element printed on the ticket forms a pre-determined instant win game.

66. The apparatus according to claim 64 wherein said at least one game data element is covered by a covering which is removable by a player to expose said at least one game data element.

67. The apparatus according to any one of claims 64 to 66 wherein the substrate has printed thereon game information defining rules for playing the game using said at least one game data element on the substrate and one or more prizes to be won by winning tickets in accordance with the rules.

68. The apparatus according to any one of claims 64 to 67 wherein the substrate has printed thereon an identification number or code identifying the ticket.

69. The apparatus according to any one of claims 64 to 68 wherein the set of additional data elements are printed on the ticket and wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the selection of one of them must be entered into the site before the result of the selection is revealed.

70. The apparatus according to any one of claims 64 to 69 wherein the set of additional data elements are shown on the site and not on the ticket and the selection of one of them is entered on the web site.

71. The apparatus according to any one of claims 64 to 70 wherein the ticket includes a validation number and the programmed computer control system is arranged to provide access to a data base containing the validation numbers of the tickets in association with information defining the selection made so that a prize dependent on said selection is made available for redemption of the prize.

72. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

at least one set of game tickets arranged for playing a game;

and a programmed computer system providing:

a site associated with the tickets;

a site accessible by the remote terminals;

a second program component for entering registration of a player entering the site and for communicating with the remote terminal of the player;

a third program component generating a plurality of groups of the registered players and causing association of selected ones of the players in a selected one of the groups.

73. The apparatus according to claim 72 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the association of a player with an associated one of said plurality of groups is selected by the player.

74. The apparatus according to claim 72 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to provide a program component which allows a player to enter into the site information concerning a physical location of the player and wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the association of a player with a group of said plurality of groups is selected by entry of a physical location of the player.

75. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 74 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to provide a program component which allows a player to enter into the site information concerning a ticket and wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the association of a player with a group of said plurality of groups is selected by a time of entry by the player of the information concerning the ticket.

76. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 75 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to generate a second chance prize to be paid to all members of a winning group of said plurality of groups.

77. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 76 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to provide a reward to a player for fostering group participation by other players in the selected one of the groups.

78. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 77 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to provide a reward to a player for introducing other players into the selected one of the groups.

79. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 78 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to provide a reward to a player of the selected one of the groups when another member of the selected one of the groups wins a prize.

80. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 79 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to share information on the tickets with the players associated with the selected one of the groups to enable strategic purchase of tickets by the players within the selected one of the groups.

81. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 80 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to provide a group game in which a winning status is determined using components from different players of the selected one of the groups which components are combined.

82. The apparatus according to claim 81 wherein the group game is played using material provided by the players or data obtained from tickets purchased by players of the selected one of the groups.

83. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 82 wherein there is provided a program component defining an app arranged to be downloaded into the remote terminal of each one of the players providing access by the remote terminal of that player to the site.

84. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 83 wherein there is provided a computer controlied validation data base containing data relating to the set of tickets and those tickets thereof which have been piayed by the players to win a prize and the value of that prize and wherein the programed computer system provides communication with the computer controlled validation data base.

85. The apparatus according to any one of claims 72 to 84 wherein the programed computer system is arranged for entering information from the remote terminal of a player entering the site, the information relating to the playing of the game and provides a program component for communicating the entered information from the player to the remote terminal of one or more of others of the players.

86. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

at least one set of game tickets arranged for playing a game;

and a programmed computer system providing:

a site associated with the tickets;

a site accessible by the remote terminals;

a first program component allowing communication with a piayer to enter the site from a remote terminal;

a program component defining an app arranged to be downloaded into the remote terminal of each one of the players providing access by the remote terminal of that player to the site.

87. The apparatus according to claim 86 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that access to the site through the app is provided by a code printed on a respective one of the tickets.

88. The apparatus according to claim 86 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to communicate information from the site to the remote terminal of each of the players which have downloaded the app.

89. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising: at least one set of game tickets for playing a game;

a programmed computer system;

a computer controlled validation data base;

the computer controlled validation data base containing data relating to the set of tickets and those tickets thereof which have been played by the players to win a prize and the value of that prize;

the programed computer system providing:

communication with the computer controlled validation data base.

90. The apparatus according to claim 89 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to obtain information from the computer controlled validation data base as to which prizes of the game have been won.

91. The apparatus according to claim 89 wherein there is provided a plurality of sets of different tickets each providing a different game and wherein the programed computer system is arranged to obtain information from the computer controlled validation data base as to the status of tickets having prizes already won and tickets having prizes still outstanding in all of the sets.

92. The apparatus according to claim 91 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to communicate status of tickets having prizes already won and still outstanding to the remote terminals.

93. The apparatus according to claim 91 wherein the programed computer system is arranged to communicate information from an inventory control data base relating to the location of tickets for sale in a geographical area.

94. Apparatus for use in a game to be played by a plurality of players, the apparatus comprising:

at least one set of tickets for playing a game;

a programmed computer system providing:

a site accessible by the remote terminals;

a program component for communicating with the remote terminal of the players and for entering information from the remote terminal of a player relating to the playing of the game;

a program component for communicating the entered information from the player to the remote terminal of one or more of others of the players.

95. The apparatus according to claim 94 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the information communicated to the other players relates to location of purchase of a winning ticket.

96. The apparatus according to claim 94 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the information communicated to the other players relates to the prize of a winning ticket .

97. The apparatus according to any one of ciaims 94 to 96 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the information communicated to the other players relates to the identity or avatar of a player of a winning ticket.

98. The apparatus according to any one of claims 94 to 97 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that the information entered by player into the remote terminal relates to comments on the game.

99. The apparatus according to any one of claims 94 to 98 wherein the programed computer system is arranged such that said one or more of the others of the players to whom the information is communicated form a group of players identified as a group on the programed computer system.