WO2015026638A1

WO2015026638A1 - System and method for playing card and reel-slot games

Info

Publication number: WO2015026638A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/051204
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sindhu Bhargavi YALLANNAGARI
Original assignee: Yallannagari Sindhu Bhargavi
Priority date: 2013-08-18
Filing date: 2014-08-15
Publication date: 2015-02-26

Abstract

A method and system for playing single or multi-player games or tournaments involving reel-slots or drawing cards, the system comprising a plurality of client devices communicatively coupled to an application server, the plurality of client devices configured to: receive a set of play outcomes from the application server, receive a wager, discard, and draw or spin command on the set of play outcomes via a touchscreen, and transmit the wager, discard, and draw or spin command to the application server, and the application server configured to select a closed set of random outcomes to create the set of play outcomes and determine a number of extra draws or picture spins to assign to a player associated with a given client device, and generate an additional set of play outcomes in response to an extra draw or picture spin command.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PLAYING CARD AND REEL-SLOT GAMES

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material, which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0002] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No.

61/867,108, entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PLAYING CARD GAMES," filed on August 18, 2013, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/867,110, entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PLAYING REEL-SLOT GAMES," filed on August 18, 2013, the disclosure of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention described herein generally relates to single or multi-player card and reel-slot games that increase user participation.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

[0004] A traditional electronic casino card game such as video poker, for example, is a single player game in which a player plays one poker hand against a pay table, rather than against other players' hands or a dealer's hand. The player attempts to achieve final card combinations that are based on poker hand rankings. Typically an initial hand is dealt to the player and the player is allowed to discard unwanted cards and draw replacement cards to form a final poker hand. The final poker hand is compared to a pay table to determine winning and losing hands and the player receives a payout based on the amount of his wager for a winning hand.

[0005] The typical video poker tournament involves each player playing a video poker machine for a designated length of time or until the player's credits are exhausted. The player or players with the highest scores at the end of the tournament receive awards in the form of cash or prizes. In traditional video poker games and tournaments, every turn to get a final hand has a fixed number of elements - starting hand and draw. The draw is fixed per turn to get a final hand. If a draw is not used, it is lost and cannot be used anywhere else in the tournament. This form of game limits resource management skills across turns and limits variability in the game.

[0006] Traditionally, the electronic casino game reel- slots is a single player game in which a player spins reels against a pay table, and not against other player or a dealer. The player can choose the number of paylines and wager. Additionally some reel-slots offer "skill stops" which enable the player to stop the reel-spin earlier than the usual time it takes. The final outcome is compared to a pay table to determine winning paylines and the player receives a payout based on the amount of his wager and the paylines wagered.

[0007] The typical reel-slots tournament involves each player playing a reel-slots for a designated length of time or till all credits are exhausted. The player or players with the highest scores at the end of the tournament receive awards in the form of cash or prizes. In traditional reel-slots tournaments, each turn to get a final hand has a fixed number of elements - choosing pay lines, spinning and "skill stop"(if the reel-slots offers this feature). This form of game limits resource management skills across turns and limits variability in the game. [0008] Due to the popularity of card games, including video poker games and reel- slots games, users have expressed a desire for additional elements in the gaming experience. There is thus a need for a system or method that enhances the participation of players by providing optional extra elements in the game.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The present invention provides methods and systems for playing single or multi- player games or tournaments involving real-slots or drawing cards, for example video poker, involving two or more players that enhances the participation of players by providing optional extra elements in the game. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a player an option to take one or more extra draws in addition to an original draw allowed in a video poker game to get a final hand. The extra draws may be free or charged and the maximum number of optional free/charged extra draws allowed may be limited per turn and/or per stage of the tournament and/or per tournament.

[0010] In another embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of client devices communicatively coupled to an application server, the plurality of client devices configured to: receive a set of play outcomes from the application server, receive a wager, discard, and draw command on the set of play outcomes via an input device, such as a touchscreen, button(s) or the like, and transmit the wager, discard, and draw command to the application server, and the application server configured to select a closed set of random outcomes to create the set of play outcomes and determine a number of extra draws to assign to a player associated with a given client device, and generate an additional set of play outcomes in response to an extra draw command. [0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, methods and systems are provided for playing reel- slot single or multi-player games or tournaments involving two or more players that enhances the participation of players by providing optional extra elements in the game. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a player an option called picture spin and the number of picture spins allowed may be limited per reel- spin and/or per stage/round of tournament and/or per tournament.

[0012] In another embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of client devices communicatively coupled to an application server, the plurality of client devices configured to: receive a wager command and a spin command via an input device, transmit the wager command and the spin command to the application server, and receive a set of reel- slot outcomes from the application server, and the application server configured to select a closed set of random outcomes to create the set of reel-slot outcomes and determine a number of extra spins to assign to a player associated with a given client device, and generate an additional set of reel-slot outcomes in response to an extra spin command.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] A further understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reference to a preferred embodiment set forth in the illustrations of the accompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiment is merely exemplary of systems for carrying out the present invention, both the organization and method of operation of the invention, in general, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be more easily understood by reference to the drawings and the following description. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, but merely to clarify and exemplify the invention. [0014] Figure 1 is a flowchart of a method for playing tournament video poker games according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 is a flowchart of a method for playing single player video poker games according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 3 is a flowchart of a method for playing tournament blackjack games according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 4 is a flowchart of a method for playing single player blackjack games according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method for playing tournament pai-gow poker games according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method for playing single player pai-gow poker games according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method for playing tournament three card poker games according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method for playing single player three card poker or other poker games according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 9 illustrates a computing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 10 a flowchart of a method for playing tournament reel-slots according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 11 a flowchart of a method for playing single player reel-slots according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0025] Figure 12 illustrates a computing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] Subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which forms a part hereof, and which shows, by way of illustrations, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. Subject matter may, however, be embodied in a variety of different forms and, therefore, covered or claimed subject matter is intended to be construed as not being limited to any example embodiments set forth herein; example embodiments are provided merely to be illustrative. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Likewise, a reasonably broad scope for claimed or covered subject matter is intended.

[0027] Among other things, for example, subject matter may be embodied as methods, devices, components, or systems. Accordingly, embodiments may, for example, take the form of hardware, software, firmware or any combination thereof (other than software per se). The following detailed description is, therefore, not intended to be taken in a limiting sense.

Throughout the specification and claims, terms may have nuanced meanings suggested or implied in context beyond an explicitly stated meaning. Likewise, the phrase "in one

embodiment" as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and the phrase "in another embodiment" as used herein does not necessarily refer to a different embodiment. It is intended, for example, that claimed subject matter include combinations of example embodiments in whole or in part. [0028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a player may be provided with an option to take one or more extra draws in addition to the original draw allowed in a video poker game to get a final hand. The extra draws may be free or charged and the maximum number of optional free/charged extra draws allowed may be limited per tournament or a stage of tournament or per turn to achieve a final hand. If an optional extra draw is used in every turn, the player would quickly run out of free extra draws. If an optional extra-draw is not used in a turn, it can be used in other turns in the tournament. This is different from the traditional or conventional video poker game model where an unused draw in a turn is lost. The embodiment of the present invention also introduces a concept of charged extra-draws with in a turn, which further enable the player to hedge return and risk

[0029] This embodiment of the present invention, used in playing a tournament adds the following elements to the game that enhance user participation: 1) Taking the extra draws increases the probability of a better hand significantly. The optional free and charged extra draws are limited and need not match the number of starting hands in a tournament, such as that in conventional video poker draws. If an extra draw is not used for a starting hand, they are not lost, as would be in a conventional video poker draw. They are carried over to other starting hands. This enhances user participation by enabling them to manage their resources (free or charged extra draws) carefully. 2) The charged extra draws enables the user to hedge risk and return in a game unlike conventional card tournaments where return is mostly fixed. The net return for a player would be his winnings in the tournament, if any, minus initial wager and the amount paid for charged extra draws, if any. So, while using charged extra draws increases probability of getting a better hand, it could potentially decrease the overall return, if overused. 3) Providing a charged extra draw model enables tournament entries to be free with no initial wager. The casino/software enabling the game would make money through the charged extra draws and can distribute parts of it as prizes to players with high scores or credits in the tournament. A free entry into tournament enhances user participation by lowering the entry barrier. 4) In conventional video poker, for example, the way in which a starting hand is played out to a final hand is always the same. Conventionally, the user gets a starting hand and then takes replacement cards by discarding some cards. In this embodiment of the present invention, the game mechanics to achieve a final hand are variable due to the presence of limited free or charged extra draws.

[0030] Figure 1 presents a flowchart according to one embodiment of the present invention, one directed to tournament video poker play. A tournament may be played between two or more players. The method starts in step 102, and each player enters the tournament with or without an initial wager, step 104. A tournament may have one or more stages or rounds, step 106, where it is determined if all rounds are completed or timed out. If all rounds are completed or timed out, the high-scoring or high-remaining credits player may be awarded prizes, step 108, leading to an end to the game, step 110. If play continues, each player may be allotted an initial or fixed set of credits and zero or more free extra draws for each round of the tournament, step 112. Each of the players may be allowed a set of maximum extra free draws and a set of maximum extra charged draws for use in a tournament or a stage/round of a tournament, or per starting hand in a round/stage. It is then determined if all credits are exhausted or if the round timed out, step 114, which would lead to an end to the game.

[0031] If continuing the play, the player wagers some credits and is dealt a starting hand, step 116. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional video poker in how a starting hand is played out to final hand. After a starting hand is played the player can get to the next hand by choosing to discard a few cards from the starting hand and take a draw to get replacement cards, as in conventional poker, step 118. However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 120, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 122. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 130, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 132. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 134.

[0032] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 122 or 132, then replacement cards are drawn for the discarded cards to get the final poker hand, step 124. Upon completion of step 124, the player is awarded a score or credits based on the final poker hand and score, step 126, then the current hand score is added to the total score, step 128. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player is awarded a score or credits based on the current poker hand and wager, step 136, and the current hand score is added to the total score, step 128.

[0033] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand/stage/round of the tournament have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used in previous hands and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used in previous hands, no extra draw option would be available to the player. Each starting hand is played out to a final hand in the above manner. Each player is allowed to vary the number of credits wagered on each starting hand and the score is awarded for each final hand based on the poker hand ranking of each final hand, similar to conventional video poker. The player would be allowed to play hands until a timeout expires and/or all the player's credits are used, step 114. Subsequently, the scores of all final hands would be added to arrive at the total score for the current round of the tournament. If a tournament were to have multiple rounds the steps above are repeated for each round.

[0034] The maximum number of charged or free extra draws, the payouts/score for a final hand, the initial set of credits per round, the range of credits allowed to be wagered on each starting hand may be varied in different rounds of tournament. After all the rounds have completed, a prize is awarded to a player using one of the following criteria: i) highest score or highest amount of accrued credits in any round, ii) highest cumulative score or highest cumulative accrued credits in the tournament. Cumulative score and accrued credits are obtained by adding scores and credits at the end of each round respectfully. Besides awarding a prize to the player who best meets the above criteria, other lesser prizes could be awarded to other players who have high scores/credits. Prizes could also be awarded to players who achieve a final score or credits of at least a certain level.

[0035] Additional embodiments of the present invention involve variability in the elements of the invention that lend themselves to additional optional elements, including: 1) The tournament could be played in one or more rounds. 2) The tournament could be played between just two players instead of a large number of players. 3) The entry into a tournament could be free instead of players requiring a wager. 4) The game could be played for real-money or for virtual goods (e.g., mobile or web based games where real money cannot be encashed back). 5) The tournament could have only free extra draws and no charged extra draws. 6) The tournament could have only charged extra draws and no free extra draws. 7) The tournament could have both free and charged extra draws. 8) The maximum number of free or charged extra draws could be limited at a round level or a starting hand level or at a tournament level.

[0036] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, when the poker game is played between two or a small number of players, the game could be played in a turn wise format. In a turn wise format, each player can take turns to play out a starting hand to a final hand by waging some credits. After reaching a final hand, the next player plays by waging some credits. This could be continued in a round robin fashion until the credits of all players are finished or until the maximum number of turns in the game are reached. If a player exhausts his turns or credits quickly, then the remaining players continue to play till they reach the maximum number of turns or exhaust their credits The play could also be stopped in the turn or a few turns after one of the players exhausts credits. The winner(s) could be decided based on the total score or credits remaining.

[0037] Additionally, the poker game can also be played in a single player format where the player is paid out varied amount of winnings based on wager and each final hand. Another form of single player format is a session format which is similar to tournament in terms of game play. However, the way in which prizes are awarded would be different as the player is not competing against other players. In the single player session format, a player could be awarded prizes based on highest final hand score or the total score of all hands or credits at the end of the session by comparing against a given pay table.

[0038] Figure 2 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to single player video poker play. The method starts in step 202, and the player wagers some initial wager and is dealt a starting hand, step 204. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional video poker in how a starting hand is played out to final hand. After a starting hand is played the player can choose to discard some cards from the starting hand and take a draw to get replacement cards as in conventional poker, step 206.

However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 208, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 210. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 216, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 218. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then the player is charged for that extra draw, step 220.

[0039] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 210 or 218, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the final poker hand, step 212. Upon completion of step 212, the player is awarded a payout based on the final poker hand and wager, step 214. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player is awarded a payout based on the current poker hand and wager, step 222, and the current play comes to an end, step 224.

[0040] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used, no extra draw option would be available to the player.

[0041] The concept of extra free/charged draws can be extended to other card games that do not involve drawing replacement cards like blackjack, its variations like blackjack switch or Spanish 21, paigow poker, or three card poker. For example, in blackjack or blackjack tournaments or its variations, a player could be given an option to replace one or more cards in the current hand using an extra free/charged draw. This could be allowed even after a hand is busted (if a users hits in a hand and gets a card which causes him to lose, he could use the extra- draw to replace one or more of the existing cards with new cards and potentially win the hand). This enables players to change the final outcome of a hand by replacing one or more cards that are already drawn, unlike traditional blackjack. This embodiment of the present invention will also have similar (like video poker) impact on this game, in terms of user participation as mentioned above.

[0042] Figure 3 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to tournament blackjack play. A tournament may be played between two or more players. The method starts in step 302, and each player enters the tournament with or without an initial wager, step 304. A tournament may have one or more stages or rounds, step 306, where it is determined if all rounds are completed or timed out. If all rounds are completed or timed out, the player with high scores or high remaining credits may be awarded prizes, step 308, leading to an end to the game, step 310. If play continues, each player may be allotted an initial or fixed set of credits and zero or more free extra draws for each round of the tournament, step 312. Each of the players may be allowed a set of maximum extra free draws and a set of maximum extra charged draws for use in a tournament or a stage/round of a tournament, or per starting hand in a round/stage. It is then determined if all credits are exhausted or if the round timed out, step 314, which would lead to an end to the game, step 310. Note that the use of "draw" in this embodiment of the present invention refers to procuring replacement cards after the selection of cards to hold or discard. [0043] If continuing the play, the player wagers some credits and is dealt cards as per conventional blackjack rules until the point where the player chooses to stand or the player's hand is over a point count of 21, step 316. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional blackjack in how a player now proceeds to a final hand. The player can get to the next hand by choosing to be dealt cards as per conventional blackjack rules, step 316. However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 318, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 320. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 328, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 330. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 332.

[0044] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 320 or 330, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the final hand, step 322. Upon completion of step 322, the player is awarded a score or credits based on the player's final hand, the dealer' s hand and wager, step 324, then the current hand score is added to the total score, step 326. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player is awarded a score or credits based on the player's final hand, the dealer's hand and wager, step 334, and the current hand score is added to the total score, step 326.

[0045] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand/stage/round of the tournament have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used in previous hands and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used in previous hands, no extra draw option would be available to the player. Each hand is played out to a final hand in the above manner. Each player is allowed to vary the number of credits wagered on each starting hand and the score is awarded for each final hand based on conventional blackjack rules. The player would be allowed to play hands until a timeout expires and/or all the player's credits are used, step 314. Subsequently, the scores of all final hands would be added to arrive at the total score for the current round of the tournament. If a tournament were to have multiple rounds the steps above are repeated for each round.

[0046] Numerous variables are contemplated, including without limitation the maximum number of charged or free extra draws, the payouts/score for a final hand, the initial set of credits per round, the range of credits allowed to be wagered, the award of prizes, additional optional elements, and a turn wise format, as described above in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Additionally, the game can also be played in a single player format where the player is paid out varied amount of winnings based on wager and each final hand. Another form of single player format is a session format which is similar to tournament in terms of game play. However, the way in which prizes are awarded would be different as the player is not competing against other players. In the single player session format, a player could be awarded prizes based on highest final hand score or the total score of all hands or credits at the end of the session by comparing against a given pay table.

[0048] Figure 4 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to single player blackjack play. The method starts in step 402, and the player wagers some initial wager and is dealt cards as per conventional blackjack rules until the point where the player chooses to stand or the player's hand is over a point count of 21, step 404. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional blackjack in how a player now proceeds to a final hand. The player can get to the next hand by choosing to be dealt cards as per conventional blackjack rules, step 404. However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 406, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 408. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 414, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 416. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 418. Note that the use of "draw" in this embodiment of the present invention refers to procuring replacement cards after the selection of cards to hold or discard.

[0049] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 408 or 416, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the final hand, step 410. Upon completion of step 410, the player is awarded a payout based on the player's final hand, the dealer's hand and wager, step 412, and the game comes to an end, step 422. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player is awarded a payout based on the player' s current hand, the dealer's hand and wager, step 420, and the game comes to an end, step 422.

[0050] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used, no extra draw option would be available to the player. [0051] In another example, in pai-gow poker or its tournaments or its variations: 1) a player could be given an option to replace one or more cards in the current hand using an extra free/charged draw. 2) This enables players to change the final outcome of a hand by replacing one or more cards that are already drawn. 3) This embodiment of the present invention will also have similar (like video poker) impact on this game, in terms of user participation as mentioned above.

[0052] Figure 5 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to tournament pai-gow poker play. A tournament may be played between two or more players. The method starts in step 502, and each player enters the tournament with or without an initial wager, step 504. A tournament may have one or more stages or rounds, step 506, where it is determined if all rounds are completed or timed out. If all rounds are completed or timed out, the player with high scores or high remaining credits may be awarded prizes, step 508, leading to an end to the game, step 510. If play continues, each player may be allotted an initial or fixed set of credits and zero or more free extra draws for each round of the tournament, step 512. Each of the players may be allowed a set of maximum extra free draws and a set of maximum extra charged draws for use in a tournament or a stage/round of a tournament, or per starting hand in a round/stage. It is then determined if all credits are exhausted or if the round timed out, step 514, which would lead to an end to the game. Note that the use of "draw" in this embodiment of the present invention refers to procuring replacement cards after the selection of cards to hold or discard.

[0053] If continuing the play, the player wagers some credits and is dealt cards as per conventional paigow poker rules, step 516. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional paigow poker in how a player now proceeds to a final hand. The player can get to the next hand by choosing to be dealt cards as per conventional pai-gow poker rules, step 516. However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 518, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 520. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 526, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 528. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 530.

[0054] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 520 or 528, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the next set of cards, step 522. Upon completion of step 522, the player separates the cards into high and low hands as per conventional pai-gow poker rules, step 524. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player also separates the cards into high and low hands as per conventional pai-gow poker rules, step 524.

[0055] At this point, if there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 532, the player can once again choose to take an extra draw, step 534. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can once again evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 540, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 542. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 544.

[0056] If the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 534 or 542, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the final set of high or low hands, step 536. Then the player is awarded score or credits based on the player's high and low hands, the dealer's high and low hands and wager, step 538. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player also is awarded score or credits based on the player's high and low hands, the dealer's high and low hands and wager, step 538. Then, the current hand score is added to the total score, step 546.

[0057] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand/stage/round of the tournament have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used in previous hands and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used in previous hands, no extra draw option would be available to the player. Each hand is played out to a final hand in the above manner. Each player is allowed to vary the number of credits wagered on each starting hand and the score is awarded for each final hand based on conventional pai-gow poker rules. The player would be allowed to play hands until a timeout expires and/or all the player's credits are used, step 514. Subsequently, the scores of all final hands would be added to arrive at the total score for the current round of the tournament. If a tournament were to have multiple rounds the steps above are repeated for each round.

[0058] Numerous variables are contemplated, including without limitation the maximum number of charged or free extra draws, the payouts/score for a final hand, the initial set of credits per round, the range of credits allowed to be wagered, the award of prizes, additional optional elements, and a turn wise format, as described above in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Additionally, the game can also be played in a single player format where the player is paid out varied amount of winnings based on wager and each final hand. Another form of single player format is a session format which is similar to tournament in terms of game play. However, the way in which prizes are awarded would be different as the player is not competing against other players. In the single player session format, a player could be awarded prizes based on highest final hand score or the total score of all hands or credits at the end of the session by comparing against a given pay table.

[0060] Figure 6 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to single player pai-gow poker play. The method starts in step 602, and the player wagers some initial wager and is dealt cards as per conventional pai-gow poker rules, step 604. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional pai-gow poker in how a player now proceeds to a final hand. The player can get to the next hand by choosing to be dealt cards as per conventional pai-gow poker rules, step 604. However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 606, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 608. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 614, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 616. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 618.

[0061] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 608 or 616, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the next set of cards, step 610. Upon completion of step 610, the player separates the cards into high and low hands as per conventional pai-gow poker rules, step 612. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player also separates the cards into high and low hands as per conventional pai-gow poker rules, step 612. [0062] At this point, if there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 620, the player can once again choose to take an extra draw, step 622. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can once again evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 628, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 630. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 632.

[0063] If the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 622 or 630, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the final set of high or low hands, step 624. Then the player is awarded a payout based on the player's high and low hands, the dealer's high and low hands and wager, step 626. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player also is awarded a payout based on the player's high and low hands, the dealer's high and low hands and wager, step 626, and then the game comes to an end, step 634.

[0064] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used, no extra draw option would be available to the player.

[0065] The invention may apply to all types of card games, including a three-card poker game as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,698,759, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0066] In another example, in three-card poker or its tournaments or its variations: 1) a player could be given an option to replace one or more cards in the current hand using an extra free/charged draw. 2) This enables players to change the final outcome of a hand by replacing one or more cards that are already drawn, unlike traditional three-card poker. 3) This embodiment of the present invention will also have similar (like video poker) impact on this game, in terms of user participation as mentioned above.

[0067] Figure 7 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to tournament three-card poker play. A tournament may be played between two or more players. The method starts in step 702, and each player enters the tournament with or without an initial wager, step 704. A tournament may have one or more stages or rounds, step 706, where it is determined if all rounds are completed or timed out. If all rounds are completed or timed out, the player with high scores or high remaining credits may be awarded prizes, step 708, leading to an end to the game, step 710. If play continues, each player may be allotted an initial or fixed set of credits and zero or more free extra draws for each round of the tournament, step 712. Each of the players may be allowed a set of maximum extra free draws and a set of maximum extra charged draws for use in a tournament or a stage/round of a tournament, or per starting hand in a round/stage. It is then determined if all credits are exhausted or if the round timed out, step 714, which would lead to an end to the game, step 710.

[0068] If continuing the play, the player wagers some credits and is dealt cards as per conventional three-card poker rules, step 716. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional three-card poker in how a player now proceeds to a final hand. The player can get to the next hand by choosing to be dealt cards as per conventional three-card poker rules, step 716. However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 718, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 720. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 728, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 730. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 732.

[0069] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 720 or 730, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the final hand, step 722. Upon completion of step 722, the player can now fold or raise as per conventional three- card poker rules and is awarded a score or credits based on the player's final hand, the dealer's hand and wager, step 724, then the current hand score is added to the total score, step 726. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player can then fold or raise as per conventional three- card poker rules and is awarded a score or credits based on the player's current hand, the dealer's hand and wager, step 734, and the current hand score is added to the total score, step 726.

[0070] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand/stage/round of the tournament have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used in previous hands and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used in previous hands, no extra draw option would be available to the player. Each hand is played out to a final hand in the above manner. Each player is allowed to vary the number of credits wagered on each starting hand and the score is awarded for each final hand based on conventional blackjack rules. The player would be allowed to play hands until a timeout expires and/or all the player's credits are used, step 714. Subsequently, the scores of all final hands would be added to arrive at the total score for the current round of the tournament. If a tournament were to have multiple rounds the steps above are repeated for each round. [0071] Numerous variables are contemplated, including without limitation the maximum number of charged or free extra draws, the payouts/score for a final hand, the initial set of credits per round, the range of credits allowed to be wagered, the award of prizes, additional optional elements, and a turn wise format, as described above in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Additionally, the game can also be played in a single player format where the player is paid out varied amount of winnings based on wager and each final hand. Another form of single player format is a session format which is similar to tournament in terms of game play. However, the way in which prizes are awarded would be different as the player is not competing against other players. In the single player session format, a player could be awarded prizes based on highest final hand score or the total score of all hands or credits at the end of the session by comparing against a given pay table.

[0073] Figure 8 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to single player three-card poker play. The method starts in step 802, and the player wagers some initial wager and is dealt cards as per conventional three-card poker rules, step 804. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional three-card poker in how a player now proceeds to a final hand. The player can get to the next hand by choosing to be dealt cards as per conventional three-card poker rules, step 804. However, to achieve the final hand, the player would be given an option for an extra draw in the following manner. If there are free extra draws available for this hand, step 806, the player can choose to take an extra draw, step 808. If there are no free extra draws available for this hand, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged extra draws available for this hand, step 814, and may decide to take a charged extra draw, step 816. If the player takes the charged extra draw, then that player is charged for that extra draw, step 818.

[0074] Next, if the player took a free or a charged extra draw in steps 808 or 816, then the player can discard some cards and replacement cards are drawn to get the final hand, step 810. Upon completion of step 810, the player can now fold or raise as per conventional three- card poker rules and is awarded a payout based on the player' s final hand, the dealer' s hand and wager, step 812, and the game comes to an end, step 822. If free or charged extra draws were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or a charged extra draw, the player can now fold or raise as per conventional three-card poker rules and is awarded a payout based on the player's current hand, the dealer's hand and wager, step 820, and the game comes to an end, step 822.

[0075] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the extra draw would be free if not all free extra draws available for the current hand have been used. Similarly, if all free extra draws were already used and not all charged extra draws were used, the extra draw would be charged. If it is determined that all charged extra draws were already used, no extra draw option would be available to the player.

[0076] To perform the invention, software and hardware may be specially crafted (i.e., a special purpose computing apparatus and/or system) to enable users to play video playing card games using the above methods. The software can be made to work on a mobile device or computer or any other device that enables playing games. The software can also be a web-based game that can be played on a browser. The user can play the game on any device that contains the software or enables installing the software, which enables playing the new game. The user can also play the game using a web-based service/software without any installation. [0077] Figure 9 illustrates a computing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system includes client 902, client 904, client 906, network 908, web server 910, database server 912, application server 914, and third party server 916. Client 902, client 904, and client 906 include electronic gaming machines connected to a central web server 910 via network 908. Client devices are capable of displaying video poker or other types of card games including but not limited to keno, roulette, craps, blackjack, or any other type of wagering game. The client devices may include computing devices capable of performing gaming functions, such as desktop computers, laptop computers, terminals, tablets and smartphones. Client 902, client 904 and client 906 include one or more central processing units and memory, and are capable of connecting to a network 908. Clients 902, 904, and 906 may include Wifi, Near Field Communication (NFC), and Bluetooth capabilities useable by the clients to communicate with each other and/or server 910.

[0078] Clients 902, 904, and 906 may also comprise a graphical user interface (GUI) or a browser application provided on a display (e.g., a touchscreen, LCD or LED display, etc.). A display is used to show game play and resulting outcomes, and may be in the form of a video display. Touchscreen displays are included on the clients and provide a flexible interface for operation of the clients, including displaying symbols, numbers, cards, dices, tiles, suits, shapes, etc., during play. Game-play may include tapping, sliding and swiping of game objects, or any other gestures on the touchscreen displays.

[0079] Each client may be configured as a wagering device for casino-style games and configured to display and play any of a number of different types of games. Credits, points, virtual chips, or cash may be wagered for play. A group of clients may form a bank that may be communicatively connected together for tournament- style play. For example, a group of clients may be linked together for bonusing in a variety of ways, including progressive bonuses where a portion of an amount wagered is applied to a progressive meter that advances as additional games are played. The application server 914 may include accounting functions to monitor and track play, and assess performance of the clients across the entire network of client devices.

[0080] Database server 912 may include player accounts and records. Payments can be made securely over network 908, and then delivered to application server 914 through web server 910. The payments may be made using credit cards, an electronic payment service, or with a bank account via third party server(s) 916. Games may be executed on server 914 with game outcomes being delivered to the individual client devices over network 908. Alternatively, game software or a portion of it may be resident and executed on each client device 902, 904, and 906. Application server 914 is also operable to determine the number of free or charged extra draws for a given player per round of play, session, or tournament. Servers may vary widely in configuration or capabilities, but generally a server may include one or more central processing units and memory. A server may also include one or more mass storage devices, one or more power supplies, one or more wired or wireless network interfaces, one or more input/output interfaces, or one or more operating systems, such as Windows Server, Mac OS X, Unix, Linux, FreeBSD, or the like.

[0081] Players are able to place bets on their hand (a known event) and play certain outcomes from their respective client device, which may be validated by the client or application server 914. Commands corresponding to actions that can be taken by a player in a game may be transmitted from a client device to the application server 914. The commands include but are not limited to a wager, fold, discard, double-down, stand, hit, draw, extra draw (an extra draw allows the player to provide an additional discard and draw command), etc. The game software is operable to select a set of random events from a closed set using for example, a random number generator. A sample space for selecting the random events may include 52-element set, representing a deck of playing cards, where each card is a possible outcome that may be selected from the element set. The randomly selected events may be distributed into play for wager by one or more players. In other embodiments, the sample space may include a 104-element set for playing out of two decks, a 156-element set for three decks, etc.

[0082] Traditionally, reel- slot machines require low skills to play. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a player may be provided with an option to introduce a new skill aspect to reel-slots. A slot machine typically has some reels and a few pictures on the reels. The embodiment of the present invention may allow a player to take one or more optional picture spins in addition to the original reel-spin allowed in a reel-slots game to get a final outcome. The reel spins may be free or charged and the maximum number of optional free/charged picture spins allowed may be limited per tournament or a stage of tournament or per turn to achieve a final outcome.

[0083] The embodiment of the present invention used in playing adds the following elements to the game that enhance user participation: 1) The picture spin enhances the skill level required for the game in both single player mode and tournament mode as the player has to carefully choose which pictures to hold or discard and spin again for a better outcome. 2) Taking the picture spin increases the probability of a better outcome significantly. The optional free and charged picture spins are limited and need not match the number of reel- spins in a tournament or a single player game. If a picture spin is not used for a reel-spin in a tournament they are carried over to other reel- spins. This enhances user participation by enabling them to manage their resources (free or charged reel spins) carefully. 3) The charged picture spins enable the user to hedge risk and return in a game unlike conventional reel slots tournaments where return is mostly fixed. The net return for a player would be his winnings in the tournament, if any, minus the initial wager and amount paid for charged picture spins, if any. So, while using charged picture spins increases probability of getting a better outcome, it could potentially decrease the overall return, if overused. 4) Providing a charged extra picture spin model enables tournament entries to be free with no initial wager. The casino/software enabling the game would make money through the charged picture spins and can distribute parts of it as prizes to players with high scores or credits in the tournament. A free entry into tournament enhances user

participation by lowering the entry barrier. 5) In conventional reel-slots, the way in which a final outcome of a spin is obtained is always the same. Conventionally, the user spins all reels only once to get a final outcome. In this embodiment of the present invention, the game mechanics to achieve final outcome are variable due to the presence of limited free or charged picture spins.

[0084] Figure 10 presents a flowchart according to one embodiment of the present invention, one directed to tournament reel- slots play. A tournament may be played between two or more players. The method starts in step 1002, and each player enters the tournament with or without an initial wager, step 1004.

[0085] A tournament may have one or more stages or rounds, step 1006, where it is determined if all rounds are completed or timed out. If all rounds are completed or timed out, the high-scoring or high remaining credits player may be awarded prizes, step 1008, leading to an end to the game, step 1010. If play continues, each player may be allotted an initial or fixed set of credits and zero or more free picture spins for each round of the tournament, step 1012. Each of the players may be allowed a set of maximum free picture spins and a set of maximum charged picture spins for use in a tournament or a stage/round of a tournament, or per starting hand in a round/stage. It is then determined if all credits are exhausted or if the round timed out, step 1014, which would lead to an end to the game, step 1010.

[0086] If continuing the play, the player wagers some credits on chosen paylines gets an outcome by a spin of the reels, step 1016. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional reel-slots in how a starting spin is played out to a final outcome. After a starting spin is played the player can be awarded a score or credits based on current outcome, chosen paylines and wager, as in conventional reel-slots, step 1034. However, to achieve the final outcome, the player would be given an option for an additional spin, called the picture spin, in the following manner. If there are free picture spins available for this reel spin, step 1018, the player can choose to take a free picture spin, step 1020. If there are no free picture spins available for this reel spin, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged picture spins available for this hand, step 1028, and may decide to take a charged picture spin, step 1030. If the player takes the charged picture spin, then that player is charged for that picture spin, step 1032.

[0087] Next, if the player took a free or a charged picture spin in steps 1020 or 1030, the player is able to choose pictures to hold or discard and spin again to obtain replacement pictures in place of the discarded pictures to get the final outcome, step 1022. Upon completion of step 1022, the player is awarded a score or credits based on the final outcome, chosen paylines and wager, step 1024, then the current outcome score is added to the total score, step 1026. If free or charged picture spins were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or charged picture spin, the player is awarded a score or credits based on the current outcome, chosen paylines and wager, step 1034, and the current outcome score is added to the total score, step 1026. [0088] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the picture spin would be free if not all free picture spins available for the current reel- spin/stage/round of the tournament have been used. Similarly, if all free picture spins were already used in previous spins and not all charged picture spins were used, the picture spin would be charged. If it is determined that all charged picture spins were already used in previous spins, no picture spin option would be available to the player. Each starting reel spin is played out to a final outcome in the above manner. Each player is allowed to vary the number of credits wagered on each starting reel spin and the score is awarded for each final outcome based on the final outcome, chosen paylines and wager of each final outcome, similar to conventional reel- slots. The player would be allowed to play spins until a timeout expires and/or all the player's credits are used, step 1014. Subsequently, the scores of all final outcomes would be added to arrive at the total score for the current round of the tournament. If a tournament were to have multiple rounds the steps above are repeated for each round.

[0089] The maximum number of charged or free picture spins, the payouts/score for a final outcome, the initial set of credits per round, the range of credits allowed to be wagered on each starting reel spin may be varied in different rounds of tournament. After all the rounds have completed, a prize is awarded to a player using one of the following criteria: i) highest score or highest amount of accrued credits in any round, ii) highest cumulative score or highest cumulative accrued credits in the tournament. Cumulative score and accrued credits are obtained by adding scores and credits at the end of each round respectfully. Besides awarding a prize to the player who best meets the above criteria, other lesser prizes could be awarded to other players who have high scores/credits. Prizes could also be awarded to players who achieve a final score or credits of at least a certain level. [0090] Additional embodiments of the present invention involve variability in the elements of the invention that lend themselves to additional optional elements, including: 1) The tournament could be played in one or more rounds. 2) The tournament could be played between just two players instead of a large number of players. 3) The entry into a tournament could be free instead of players requiring a wager. 4) The game could be played for real-money or for virtual goods (e.g., mobile or web based games where real money cannot be encashed back). 5) The tournament could have only free picture spins and no charged picture spins. 6) The tournament could have only charged picture spins and no free picture spins. 7) The tournament could have both free and charged picture spins. 8) The maximum number of free or charged picture spins could be limited at a round level or a starting spin level or at a tournament level.

[0091] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, when the game is played between two or a small number of players, the game could be played in a turn wise format. In a turn wise format, each player can take turns to play out a starting spin to a final outcome by waging some credits. After reaching a final outcome, the next player plays by waging some credits. This could be continued in a round robin fashion until the credits of all players are finished or until the maximum number of turns in the game are reached. If a player exhausts his turns or credits quickly, then the remaining players continue to play till they reach the maximum number of turns or exhaust their credits. The play could also be stopped in the turn or a few turns after one of the players exhausts credits. The winner(s) could be decided based on the total score or credits remaining.

[0092] Additionally, the game can also be played in a single player format where the player is paid out varied amount of winnings based on wager and each final outcome. Another form of single player format is a session format which is similar to tournament in terms of game play. However, the way in which prizes are awarded would be different as the player is not competing against other players.

[0093] In the single player session format, a player could be awarded prizes based on highest final outcome score or the total score of all spins or credits at the end of the session by comparing against a given pay table.

[0094] Figure 11 presents a flowchart according to another embodiment of the present invention, one directed to single player reel- slots play. The method starts in step 1102, and the player wagers some initial wager on chosen paylines and gets an outcome by a spin of the reels, step 1104. This embodiment of the present invention differs from conventional reel-slots in how a starting reel spin is played out to a final outcome. After a starting reel spin is played the player can be awarded a score or credits based on current outcome, chosen paylines and wager, as in conventional reel- slots, step 1120. However, to achieve the final outcome, the player would be given an option for an additional spin, called the picture spin, in the following manner. If there are free picture spins available for this reel spin, step 1106, the player can choose to take a free picture spin, step 1108. If there are no free picture spins available for this reel spin, then the player can evaluate whether there are charged picture spins available for this hand, step 1114, and may decide to take a charged picture spin, step 1116. If the player takes the charged picture spin, then that player is charged for that picture spin, step 1118.

[0095] Next, if the player took a free or a charged picture spin in steps 1108 or 1116, then replacement pictures are obtained for discarded pictures to get the final outcome, step 1110. A player may select one or more pictures to hold or discard and take another picture spin for an opportunity to obtain a better final outcome. Upon completion of step 1110, the player is awarded a payout based on the final outcome, chosen paylines and wager, step 1112, which leads to an end to the game, step 1122. If free or charged picture spins were not available to the player, or the player did not take an available free or charged picture spin, the player is awarded a score or credits based on the current outcome, chosen paylines and wager, step 1120, leading to an end to the game, step 1122.

[0096] It is contemplated that in the steps above, the picture spin would be free if not all free picture spins available for the current spin have been used. Similarly, if all free pictures spins were already used and not all charged picture spins were used, the picture spin would be charged. If it is determined that all charged picture spins were already used, no picture spin option would be available to the player.

[0097] To perform the invention, software and hardware may be specially crafted (i.e., a special purpose computing apparatus and/or system) to enable users to play video reel-slot games using the above methods. The software can be made to work on a mobile device or computer or any other device that enables playing games. The software can also be a web-based game that can be played on a browser. The user can play the game on any device that contains the software or enables installing the software, which enables playing the new game. The user can also play the game using a web-based service/software without any installation.

[0098] Figure 12 illustrates a computing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system includes client 1202, client 1204, client 1206, network 1208, web server 1210, database server 1212, application server 1214, and third party server 1216. Client 1202, client 1204, and client 1206 include electronic gaming machines connected to a central web server 1210 via network 1208. Client devices are capable of displaying video reel-slot games. The client devices may include computing devices capable of performing gaming functions, such as desktop computers, laptop computers, terminals, tablets and smartphones. Client 1202, client 1204 and client 1206 include one or more central processing units and memory, and are capable of connecting to a network 1208. Clients 1202, 1204, and 1206 may include Wifi, Near Field Communication (NFC), and Bluetooth capabilities useable by the clients to communicate with each other and/or server 1210.

[0099] Clients 1202, 1204, and 1206 may also comprise a graphical user interface (GUI) or a browser application provided on a display (e.g., a touchscreen, LCD or LED display, etc.). A display is used to show game play and resulting outcomes, and may be in the form of a video display. Touchscreen displays are included on the clients and provide a flexible interface for operation of the clients, including displaying symbols, numbers, cards, dices, tiles, suits, shapes, etc., during play. Game-play may include tapping, swiping of game objects, dragging and releasing a virtual reel-slot, or any other gestures on the touchscreen displays.

[00100] Each client may be configured as a wagering device for reel- slot- style games and configured to display and play any of a number of different types of genres. Credits, points, virtual chips, or cash may be wagered for play. A group of clients may form a bank that may be communicatively connected together for tournament- style play. For example, a group of clients may be linked together for bonusing in a variety of ways, including progressive bonuses where a portion of an amount wagered is applied to a progressive meter that advances as additional games are played. The application server 1214 may include accounting functions to monitor and track play, and assess performance of the clients across the entire network of client devices.

[00101] Database server 1212 may include player accounts and records. Payments can be made securely over network 1208, and then delivered to application server 1214 through web server 1210. The payments may be made using credit cards, an electronic payment service, or with a bank account via third party server(s) 1216. Games may be executed on server 1214 with game outcomes being delivered to the individual client devices over network 1208. Alternatively, game software or a portion of it may be resident and executed on each client device 1202, 1204, and 1206. Application server 1214 is also operable to determine the number of free or charged extra picture spins for a given player per round of play, session, or tournament. Players are able to place bets and play certain outcomes from their respective client device, which may be validated by the client or application server 1214. Commands corresponding to actions that can be taken by a player in a reel- slot game may be transmitted from a client device to the application server 1214. The commands include but are not limited to a wager, bet line selection, hold, spin, extra spin (an extra spin command allows the player to provide additional hold commands and an additional spin command), etc. The game software is operable to select a set of random events from a closed set using for example, a random number generator. A sample space for selecting the random events may include an element set, representing all the possible outcomes based on the number of reels and symbols.

[00102] Figures 1-12 are conceptual illustrations allowing for an explanation of the present invention. It should be understood that various aspects of the embodiments of the present invention could be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or combinations thereof. In such embodiments, the various components and/or steps would be implemented in hardware, firmware, and/or software to perform the functions of the present invention. That is, the same piece of hardware, firmware, or module of software could perform one or more of the illustrated blocks (e.g., components or steps).

[00103] In software implementations, computer software (e.g., programs or other instructions) and/or data is stored on a machine readable medium as part of a computer program product, and is loaded into a computer system or other device or machine via a removable storage drive, hard drive, or communications interface. Computer programs (also called computer control logic or computer readable program code) are stored in a main and/or secondary memory, and executed by one or more processors (controllers, or the like) to cause the one or more processors to perform the functions of the invention as described herein. In this document, the terms "machine readable medium," "computer program medium" and "computer usable medium" are used to generally refer to media such as a random access memory (RAM); a read only memory (ROM); a removable storage unit (e.g., a magnetic or optical disc, flash memory device, or the like); a hard disk; or the like.

[00104] Notably, the figures and examples above are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention to a single embodiment, as other embodiments are possible by way of interchange of some or all of the described or illustrated elements. Moreover, where certain elements of the present invention can be partially or fully implemented using known

components, only those portions of such known components that are necessary for an understanding of the present invention are described, and detailed descriptions of other portions of such known components are omitted so as not to obscure the invention. In the present specification, an embodiment showing a singular component should not necessarily be limited to other embodiments including a plurality of the same component, and vice- versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. Moreover, applicants do not intend for any term in the specification or claims to be ascribed an uncommon or special meaning unless explicitly set forth as such.

Further, the present invention encompasses present and future known equivalents to the known components referred to herein by way of illustration.

[00105] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the relevant art(s) (including the contents of the documents cited and incorporated by reference herein), readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Such adaptations and modifications are therefore intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance presented herein, in combination with the knowledge of one skilled in the relevant art(s).

[00106] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example, and not limitation. It would be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) that various changes in form and detail could be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

[00107] A method and system is claimed with all the features of novelty substantially described herein with reference to and illustrated by the accompanying drawings.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A system for playing single or multi-player games or tournaments involving drawing cards, the system comprising:

a plurality of client devices communicatively coupled to an application server, the plurality of client devices configured to:

receive a set of play outcomes from the application server,

receive a wager, discard, and draw command on the set of play outcomes via an input device, and

transmit the wager, discard, and draw command to the application server; and the application server configured to select a closed set of random outcomes to create the set of play outcomes and determine a number of extra draws to assign to a player associated with a given client device, and generate an additional set of play outcomes in response to an extra draw command.

2. A system for playing reel-slot single or multi-player games or tournaments involving two or more players, the system comprising:

receive a wager command and a spin command via an input device; transmit the wager command and the spin command to the application server, and receive a set of reel- slot outcomes from the application server; and the application server configured to select a closed set of random outcomes to create the set of reel-slot outcomes and determine a number of extra spins to assign to a player associated with a given client device, and generate an additional set of reel-slot outcomes in response to an extra spin command.