HK1130096A - Gaming systems and apparatus for detecting a signal indicative of a problem gambler and dispatching an event in response thereto - Google Patents

Description

Gaming system and apparatus for detecting signals indicative of problem gamblers and dispatching events in response thereto

[0100]Technical Field

[0101] The present invention relates to gaming devices and systems, and more particularly, to gaming devices and systems operable to facilitate a wagering game and detect a signal from a player playing the wagering game.

[0102]Background

[0103] Gambling is an interesting activity that is entertaining for players and profitable for casinos. If participating on a healthy basis, it can provide players with hours of enjoyment and serve as a mood and leisure health-diversion channel. However, some players may be problematic with gambling to the point that they spend money on the wagering game that they cannot afford. It would be beneficial for both players and casinos to detect such problem gamblers and intervene (interven) with them during their gaming activities. Helping to ensure that players of a casino participate in the entertainment available to the players in an appropriate manner would benefit the casino. This would benefit players who are problematic to gambling, i.e., identifying, tracking and/or interrupting problem gambling of the player thereby reducing the likelihood that they will become incapacitated by activities being conducted in a manner inappropriate for them. It would be beneficial to have a gaming device and/or system that is operable to detect problem gamblers and dispatch events.

[0104]Disclosure of Invention

[0105] According to one or more embodiments, a gaming device is provided. The gaming device includes a display device for displaying gaming information to a player and an input device that can be used by the player to provide input to the gaming device. The gaming device also includes a processor operable to facilitate a wagering game and a memory storing a program for directing the processor. The processor and the program are together operable to determine that the player has provided input to a gaming device and that the input is an indication that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler. The processor and the program are further operable to transmit an indication to a server device, the indication indicating the input from the player. In one embodiment, the processor and the program are operable to interrupt the player's play of the gaming device and/or output a message to the player based on a determination that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler.

[0106] According to one or more embodiments, a gaming system is provided. The gaming system includes a gaming device having a display device for displaying gaming information to a player and an input device operable by the player to provide input to the gaming device. The gaming system also includes a server device in communication with the gaming device. The gaming device is operable to determine that the player has provided input to the gaming device using the input device. The gaming device is further operative to transmit an indication of the input to the server device. The server device is operable to determine, based on the input, that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler, and to dispatch an event in response to the determination. For example, dispatching the event may include one or more of: (i) transmitting instructions to a casino employee to access the player; (ii) creating a record in a database; (iii) scoring the indication; (iv) directing a video camera to focus on the player; (v) outputting a message to the player; and (vi) interrupting the player's play of the gaming device.

[0107] According to one or more embodiments, a server operable to facilitate a wagering facility (betting). The server includes a processor and a memory storing a program for booting the processor. The processor and the program together are operable to: (i) receiving an indication from a gaming device, the signal indicative of an input provided by a player to the gaming device; (ii) determining, based on the indication, that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler; and (iii) dispatching an event in response to the determination. Dispatching the event includes at least one of: (i) transmitting instructions to a casino employee to access the player; (ii) creating a record in a database; (iii) scoring the indication; (iv) directing a video camera to focus on the player; (v) outputting a message to the player; and (vi) interrupting the player's play of the gaming device.

[0108]Drawings

[0109] Various embodiments of the present invention are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements. The left-most digit or digits of a reference number generally indicate the figure in which the reference number first appears. Those skilled in the art will understand that the figures and associated description presented herein refer to some exemplary arrangements of stored informational representations. Various other arrangements than the illustrated table may be employed. Similarly, the illustrated entries (entries) represent exemplary information, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number and content of the entries may be different from those illustrated. The following is a brief description of the drawings.

[0110] Fig. 1A is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0111] Fig. 1B is a block diagram of another exemplary embodiment of a system in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0112] FIG. 2A is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a gaming device according to at least one embodiment.

[0113] FIG. 2B is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a gaming device and an exemplary embodiment of a peripheral device (peripheral device) in accordance with at least one embodiment, wherein the gaming device and the peripheral device are in communication with each other.

[0114] Fig. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a server device (also referred to herein as a controller) according to at least one embodiment.

[0115] Fig. 4A and 4B are tables illustrating an exemplary structure and exemplary data for a player database, according to at least one embodiment.

[0116] Fig. 5 is a table illustrating an exemplary structure and exemplary data for a problem gambler database in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0117] Fig. 6A and 6B are tables illustrating an example structure and example data for a dispatched (dispatched) event database in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0118] Fig. 7 is a table illustrating example structures and example data for an available event type database in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0119] Fig. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a process according to one or more embodiments.

[0120] Fig. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a process according to one or more embodiments.

[0121] Fig. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a process according to one or more embodiments.

[0122] Fig. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process according to one or more embodiments.

[0123]Detailed Description

[0124] Various embodiments are described in this patent application and are presented for purposes of illustration only. The described embodiments are not intended to be limiting in any sense. As is apparent from the disclosure, the present invention is widely applicable to a variety of embodiments. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural, logical, software, electrical or other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, one skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention may be embodied with various modifications and alterations. While a particular feature of the invention may have been described with reference to one or more particular embodiments or figures, it should be understood that such feature is not limited to use in describing one or more particular embodiments or figures to which it refers, which figures form a part of this disclosure, and in which particular embodiments of the invention are shown by way of illustration. Thus, this disclosure is neither a literal description of all embodiments of the invention nor a listing of features of the invention that must be present in all embodiments.

[0125] The terms "an embodiment," "embodiments," "the embodiment," "the embodiments," "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiments," "at least one embodiment," "one or more embodiments," and "one embodiment" mean "one or more (but not necessarily all) embodiments of the invention," unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0126] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the term "including" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to".

[0127] Unless expressly stated otherwise, the term "consisting of" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to".

[0128] The enumeration of items (items) does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive. The enumeration of items does not imply that any or all of the items are totally exhaustive of anything unless explicitly stated otherwise. The enumeration of items does not imply that the items are ordered in any way, following the order in which they were enumerated.

[0129] The terms "a" and "an" and "the" mean "one or more" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0130] The term "based on" means "based on at least" unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0131] The methods described herein (whether they are referred to as methods, procedures, algorithms, calculations, etc.) inherently include one or more steps. Accordingly, all references to "a step" or "steps" of such a method are to be taken as a prerequisite in the pure recitation of the term "method" or similar terms. Accordingly, any reference in the claims to "a step" or "steps" of a method is deemed to have sufficient antecedent basis.

[0132] The title of the section provided in this patent application and the title of this patent application are for convenience only and are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way.

[0133] Devices that are in communication with each other need not be in continuous communication with each other, unless expressly specified otherwise. In addition, devices that are in communication with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.

[0134] A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. Rather, various optional components are described to illustrate the wide range of possible embodiments of the invention.

[0135] Additionally, although process steps, method steps, algorithms or the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes, methods and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described in this patent application does not by itself require that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be performed in any practical order. Additionally, some steps may be performed concurrently, although described or illustrated as occurring non-concurrently (e.g., because one step is described as being subsequent to another step). Furthermore, the illustration of a process by depiction in the figures does not indicate that the illustrated process excludes other variations or modifications thereto, does not indicate that the illustrated process or any of its steps is essential to the invention, and does not indicate that the illustrated process is preferred.

[0136] It will be apparent that the various methods and algorithms described herein may be implemented, for example, by means of a suitably programmed general purpose computer and computing device. Typically, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) will receive instructions from a memory or similar device and execute those instructions, thereby performing the processes defined by those instructions. In addition, programs implementing the methods and algorithms may be stored and transmitted using a variety of known media.

[0137] When a single device or article is described herein, it will be readily apparent that more than one device/article (whether or not they cooperate) may be used in place of a single device/article. Similarly, where more than one device or article is described herein (whether or not they cooperate), it will be readily apparent that a single device/article may be used in place of the more than one device or article.

[0138] The functionality and/or the features of a device may alternatively be implemented by one or more other devices which are not explicitly described as having such functionality/features. Thus, other embodiments of the invention need not include the device itself.

[0139] As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions) that may be read by a computer, processor or similar device. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other persistent memory. Volatile media include Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes a main memory. Transmission media includes coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a system bus coupled to the processor. Transmission media can include or convey acoustic waves, light waves and electromagnetic emissions, such as those generated during Radio Frequency (RF) and Infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes (patterns), a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described hereinafter, or any other form of medium from which a computer can read.

[0140] Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying a sequence of instructions to a processor. For example, the sequences of instructions may be (i) delivered to the processor from RAM, (ii) carried on a wireless transmission medium, and/or (iii) formatted according to various formats, standards, or protocols, such as bluetooth, TDMA, CDMA, and 3G.

[0141] Where databases are described, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that (i) alternative database structures to those described herein can be readily employed and (ii) other memory structures can be readily employed. Any schematic illustration and associated description of any sample (sample) database presented herein is an exemplary arrangement of stored information representations. Any number of other arrangements may be employed than suggested by the illustrated table. Similarly, any illustrated entries of a database represent only exemplary information; those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number and content of the items may vary from that illustrated herein. Additionally, although any of the databases are depicted as tables, other formats (including relational databases, object-oriented models, and/or distributed databases) may be used to store and manipulate the data types described herein. Likewise, the object methods or behaviors of the database may be used to implement the processes of the present invention. In addition, the databases may be stored locally or remotely in a known manner with respect to the devices accessing data from such databases.

[0142] According to one or more embodiments, a gaming device is provided. The gaming device includes a display device for displaying gaming information to a player and an input device that can be used by the player to provide input to the gaming device. The gaming device also includes a processor operable to facilitate a wagering game and a memory storing a program for directing the processor. The processor and the program are together operable to detect input provided by the player to a gaming device and determine that the input is an indication that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler. The processor and the program are further operable to transmit a signal to a server device, the signal indicative of the input from the player. In one embodiment, the gaming device is operable to interrupt the player's play of the gaming device and/or output a message to the player based on a determination that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler.

[0143] According to one or more embodiments, a gaming system is provided. The gaming system includes a gaming device having a display device for displaying gaming information to a player and an input device operable by the player to provide input to the gaming device. The gaming system also includes a server device in communication with the gaming device. The gaming device is operable to detect that the player has provided input to the gaming device using the input device. The gaming device is further operative to transmit an indication of the input to the server device. The server device is operable to determine, based on the input, that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler, and to dispatch an event in response to the determination. For example, dispatching the event may include one or more of: (i) transmitting instructions to a casino employee to access the player; (ii) creating a record in a database; (iii) scoring the indication; (iv) directing a video camera to focus on the player; (v) outputting a message to the player; and (vi) interrupting the player's play of the gaming device.

[0144] According to one or more embodiments, a server operable to facilitate a wagering facility is provided. The server includes a processor and a memory storing a program for booting the processor. The processor and the program together are operable to: (i) receiving an indication from a gaming device, the signal indicative of an input provided by a player to the gaming device; (ii) determining, based on the indication, that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler; and (iii) dispatching an event in response to the determination. Dispatching the event includes at least one of: (i) transmitting instructions to a casino employee to access the player; (ii) creating a record in a database; (iii) scoring the indication; (iv) directing a video camera to focus on the player; (v) outputting a message to the player; and (vi) interrupting the player's play of the gaming device.

[0145] These and other advantages and features of the present invention, which will become apparent hereinafter, may be more clearly understood by reference to the following detailed description of the invention, the appended claims and the several drawings attached hereto.

[0146]Referring now to fig. 1A, an exemplary embodiment 100A of a system in accordance with one or more embodiments is depicted in block diagram form. Embodiment 100A is referred to herein as system 100A. The present invention can be configured as a network ringAn in-home system 100A operates, the system 100A including a controller 105A (e.g., a casino's slot server) in communication with one or more gaming devices 110A (e.g., slot machines, video poker machines, etc.) and one or more casino employee devices 125A via a communication network 120A. The controller 105A may communicate directly or indirectly with any one or all of the gaming device 110A and/or casino employee devices 125A via a wired or wireless medium such as the internet, a LAN, WAN or ethernet, token ring, or via any suitable communication means or combination of communication means. Each gaming device 110A may include a computer adapted to communicate with controller 105A, e.g., based onA computer of a processor. Any number, type, and/or number of types of gaming devices 110A may communicate with controller 105A.

[0147] Communication between gaming device 110A, casino employee device 125A and controller 105A and/or between gaming devices 110A may be direct or indirect, such as over the Internet through a website maintained by a computer on a remote server, or over an online data network including a commercial online service provider, bulletin board system, or the like. In other embodiments, gaming devices 110A may communicate with each other and/or with controller 105A via RF, cable TV, satellite link, etc.

[0148]Some, but not all, possible communication networks that comprise network 120A or are otherwise part of system 100A include: local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), the internet, telephone lines, cables, radio channels, optical communication lines, and satellite communication links. Possible communication protocols that may be part of the system include: ethernet (or IEEE802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth^TMAnd TCP/IP. Communications may be encrypted to ensure privacy and prevent spoofing in a variety of ways known in the art.

[0149]Various communication protocols may be system 100A or operable to facilitate implementation of the techniques described hereinPart of another system of embodiments, the communication protocol includes but is not limited to: ethernet (or IEEE802.3), SAP, SAS^TM、SuperSAS^TMATP, Bluetooth^TMAnd TCP/IP. In addition, in some embodiments, various communication protocols recognized by the gaming standards association of Fremont, ca, such as (i) the Gaming Device Standard (GDS), which may facilitate communication between the gaming device and various component devices and/or peripherals (e.g., printers, bill acceptors, etc.), (ii) the most (BOB of Breed) standard of the same kind, which may facilitate communication between the gaming devices and various servers that play one or more gaming devices, such as servers that help provide accounting, player tracking, content management, ticketing/ticketing, and progressive jackpot functionality, and/or (iii) system-to-system (S2S) standards, which facilitates communication between game-related servers and/or casino asset management servers, such as hotel servers that include one or more databases storing information about appointments and reservations. Communications may be encrypted to ensure privacy and prevent spoofing in a variety of ways known in the art.

[0150] In some embodiments, controller 105A may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example, one or more embodiments may be implemented on standalone gaming device 110A and/or gaming device 110A that only communicates with one or more other gaming devices 110A (i.e., without controller 105A). In these embodiments, any functions described as being performed by controller 105A or data described as being stored on controller 105A may instead be performed by one or more gaming devices 110A or stored on one or more gaming devices 110A.

[0151] In one or more embodiments, the system 100A can include additional devices, such as one or more additional servers (e.g., a hotel reservation server, a problem gambler management server, and/or an inventory server). According to one embodiment, the problem gambler management server may include, for example, a server storing information regarding which players have been identified as potentially needing attention as problem gamblers, or who has been identified as needing attention as problem gamblers, and an indication of the events that have been dispatched in association with each such determination. Of course, such information may also be stored in the controller 105A as described herein. One or more point-of-sale terminals associated with one or more merchants may also be included in the system 100A.

[0152] In some embodiments, each casino employee may be equipped with or otherwise use one or more casino employee devices 125A, such as a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or other computing device (e.g., a personal computer terminal). As described herein with respect to other devices, casino employee device 125A may include, for example, one or more of various input devices (e.g., keypad, touch sensitive display screen, card reader, infrared barcode scanner, etc.), various output devices (e.g., LCD screen), processors, memory, and/or communication ports. In some embodiments, casino employee device 125A may communicate with an inventory/reservation system of gaming devices, servers, kiosks, peripherals, and/or assets maintained by the casino (e.g., hotels). Accordingly, a casino employee device may be configured to (i) read and/or write to one or more databases of the present invention, (ii) facilitate payment to a player (e.g., typically "scanning" cashless gaming receipts and determining a value associated with the receipt and, if the receipt is valid, providing a payment value equal to the value), (iii) facilitate payment by a player; (iv) outputting instructions to a casino employee to approach a player and/or to intervene in a player's play of a gaming device (e.g., based on a determination that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler); and/or (iii) perform or facilitate performance of various other processes described herein. For example, a casino employee may utilize a casino employee device to (i) obtain, display, and/or view information about a player who has provided input that may indicate that the player is qualified as a problem gambler, (ii) determine a current location of the player, (iii) receive instructions on how to approach the player, what to say to the player, what information to provide to the player, and/or what other actions to take for the player, and/or (iv) receive input from the casino employee about a player (e.g., the casino employee may walk by a player who has been identified as potentially needing attention as a problem gambler, determine that the player is most likely not a problem gambler, and input an indication to the casino employee device that the determination is indicative). In one or more embodiments, casino employee devices may be operable to read and/or write data to one or more databases described herein. The memory of the casino employee device may store a program, or a portion thereof, for performing the processes described herein.

[0153] In some embodiments, various merchants (e.g., bars, ATMs, stores, restaurants, etc.) may utilize point-of-sale (POS) computer terminals to facilitate the various processes of the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, a player's activity or behavior at a merchant (or lack thereof) may be used to determine whether the player is qualified as a problem gambler. In some embodiments, the POS terminal may be configured to read from and/or write to one or more databases of the present invention. These POS terminals may thus include various hardware and software described with respect to other devices, and may communicate with (i) a casino server, (ii) gaming devices, (iii) inventory/reservation systems (e.g., a computer terminal of a theater communicates with an inventory database to determine an amount of unsold seats for an event), and so forth.

[0154] In some embodiments, the controller 105A may be operable to communicate with one or more servers of a casino other than the casino with which the controller 105A is associated (e.g., to share information about problem gamblers). In some embodiments, the controller 105A may be operable to communicate with devices and/or entities having information about problem gamblers (e.g., to access a nationwide self-exclusion (self-exclusion) list on a server of another entity).

[0155] In some embodiments, various component devices (e.g., any or all of the benefit output devices, input devices, and/or input-output devices described herein) may be implemented as peripherals. For example, these devices may not necessarily be part of a gaming device, although they may be configured in such a way as to communicate with one or more gaming device processors or any other device described herein. For example, a peripheral (such as a large-sized display device) may be associated with multiple gaming devices, and thus may not necessarily be considered a component of any one gaming device. Further, in some embodiments, certain peripherals (such as card readers) may be interchangeable among gaming devices, and thus, may be considered a component of a first gaming device when connected to the first gaming device, may be removable from the first gaming device, may be connected to a second gaming device, and so forth. In other embodiments, the various peripherals may never be considered components of a particular gaming device. For example, in some embodiments, a peripheral (such as a USB-based portable memory device) may store (i) one or more databases described herein, and/or (ii) a program for performing one or more process steps described herein. Such peripherals may then be utilized by casino personnel to upgrade/retrofit existing gaming devices as described herein.

[0156] Referring now to FIG. 1B, a block diagram of a system 100B according to at least one embodiment includes a controller 105B (e.g., a casino's slot server) in communication with one or more gaming devices 110B (e.g., slot machines, video poker machines) via a communication network 120B. System 100A (fig. 1A) differs from system 100B (fig. 1B) in that in system 100B, at least one gaming device 110B also communicates with one or more peripherals 130B. In turn, peripheral 130B may communicate with peripheral server 135B, and in one embodiment, peripheral 130B may communicate with controller 105B. In one or more embodiments, peripheral server 135B may communicate with one or more gaming devices 110B and/or controller 105B.

[0157] Controller 105B may communicate directly or indirectly with one or more gaming devices 110B and/or one or more peripherals 130B via a wired or wireless medium, such as the internet, a LAN, WAN, or ethernet, token ring, or via any suitable communication means or combination of communication means. For example, controller 105B may communicate directly with one of gaming devices 110B (e.g., via a LAN) and may communicate indirectly with peripheral 130B (e.g., via gaming device 110B). In another embodiment, controller 105B may communicate with one of gaming devices 110B via a LAN and with another of gaming devices 110B via the Internet (e.g., if a particular gaming device includes a personal computer in communication with an online casino).

[0158]At least one of gaming device 110B and peripheral 130B may include a computer adapted to communicate with controller 105B, e.g., based onA computer of a processor. Further, at least one of the gaming devices 110B may include a gaming device such as a mechanical or electronic slot machine, a video poker machine, a video blackjack machine, a video keno machine (keno machine), a pachinko machine (pachinko machine), a video roulette machine (roulette machine), and/or a lotto terminal. Further, at least one of peripherals 130B may include an external or internal module associated with one or more of gaming devices 110B, capable of communicating with one or more of gaming devices 110B, and capable of directing one or more of gaming devices 110B to perform one or more functions. Any number of gaming devices 110B may communicate with controller 105. Any number and type of peripherals 130B may communicate with gaming device 110B, peripheral server 135B, and/or controller 105B.

[0159] Communication between gaming device 110B and controller 105B, gaming device 110B and peripheral 130B, peripheral server 135B and peripheral 130B and/or gaming device 110B, peripheral server 135B and controller 105B, gaming device 110B and/or peripheral 130B may be direct or indirect, such as over the internet through a website maintained by controller 105B on a remote server, or over an online data network including a commercial online service provider, a bulletin board system, and the like. In other embodiments, any and all of the devices of system 100B (i.e., gaming device 110B, peripherals 130B, controller 105B, and peripheral server 135B) may communicate with each other via RF, cable TV, satellite links, and the like.

[0160] Similar to system 100A, system 100B may include additional or different components, such as one or more kiosks, one or more POS systems, one or more additional servers, and/or one or more casino employee devices.

[0161]Some but not all possible communication networks that may comprise network 120B or otherwise be part of system 100B include: local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), the internet, telephone lines, cables, radio channels, optical communication lines, and satellite communication links. Possible communication protocols that may be part of system 100B include: ethernet (or IEEE802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth^TMAnd TCP/IP. Communications may be encrypted to ensure privacy and prevent spoofing in a variety of ways known in the art.

[0162] In some embodiments, the controller 105B may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example, in one or more embodiments, the present invention may be implemented on standalone gaming devices 110B, one or more gaming devices 110B in communication with one or more peripherals 130B, one or more gaming devices 110B in communication with peripheral server 135B, one or more peripherals 130B in communication with peripheral server 135B, and/or gaming devices 110B in communication only with one or more other gaming devices 110B. In these embodiments, any functions described as being performed by controller 105B and/or data described as being stored on a memory of controller 105B may instead be performed by or stored on one or more gaming devices 110B, one or more peripherals 130B, and/or peripheral server 135B.

[0163] Similarly, in some embodiments the peripheral server 135B may not be necessary and/or preferred. In embodiments that do not include peripheral server 135B, any or all of the functions described herein as being performed by peripheral server 135B may instead be performed by controller 105, one or more gaming devices 110B, one or more peripherals 130B, or a combination thereof. Similarly, in embodiments that do not include peripheral server 135B, any data described herein as being stored in the memory of peripheral server 135B may instead be stored in the memory of controller 105B, one or more gaming devices 110B, one or more peripherals 130B, or a combination thereof.

[0164] Any or all of gaming devices 110B may include peripherals 130B or communicate with peripherals 130B, respectively. Peripherals 130B may be devices that obtain (e.g., receive, acquire, analyze, detect, and/or read) information from one or more gaming devices 110B (and/or transmit information to one or more gaming devices 110B). For example, the peripheral 130B may operate to obtain information regarding inputs (e.g., game initial input, cash out request, payline selection, wager amount selection, etc.) that a player is entering into a gaming device. For example, peripheral 130B may monitor activities performed by the processor of gaming device 110B and/or information being received by the processor of gaming device 110B.

[165] As described, in one or more embodiments, one or more peripherals 130B can communicate with peripheral server 135B. Such an arrangement may allow peripheral server 135B to receive information regarding multiple games being played on multiple gaming devices 110B. Peripheral server 135B may, in turn, communicate with controller 105B. Of course, in other embodiments, one or more peripherals 130B may communicate directly with controller 105B. It should be understood that any of the functions described herein as being performed by peripheral 130B may also or alternatively be performed by peripheral server 135B. Similarly, any data described herein as being stored on peripheral 130B or accessed by peripheral 130B may also or alternatively be stored on peripheral server 135B or accessed by peripheral server 135B.

[0166] In one embodiment, peripheral 130B may be operative to access a database (e.g., of peripheral server 135B) to output messages and/or signals. For example, the peripheral may transmit a signal to another device indicating that a player currently playing a gaming device has been identified as potentially needing attention as a problem gambler. In other embodiments, the peripheral may be directed by another device (or by its own processor) to output a message (e.g., a message targeting gambling behavior of a constraint (curb) problem gambler) to a player of a gaming device associated with the peripheral. In some embodiments, the peripheral 130B may also be operable to access a database (e.g., a problem gambler database as described below) to write information to the database. For example, the peripheral device may be operable to cause an indication that player input to the gaming device is to be stored in a question database record associated with the player. For example, the peripheral may cause an indication that a player's attack on the gaming device (e.g., hitting or barking the gaming device) is to be stored, and/or an attempt by the player to initiate a game play before a previously initiated game play ends (resolution) is to be stored. As described in more detail below, in some embodiments, one or more of these actions may be an indication that the player is qualified as a potential problem gambler.

[0167] In one or more embodiments, the peripheral server 135B may also monitor the player's gaming history over time by associating gaming behaviors with player identifiers (e.g., player tracking card numbers or player photos). For example, in embodiments where a change in player gaming mode is monitored (e.g., when a player typically plays a day or week), peripheral server 135B stores an indication of each game played by the player. In addition, information about players obtained or accessed by the peripheral server 135 may be analyzed, for example, to identify those players that may need attention as problem gamblers. For example, if a player typically only plays at night or on the weekend, but suddenly and continuously begins to play during the weekdays, such a change in play behavior may be determined as an indication that the player is eligible as a problem gambler. Based on the desired goal, peripheral server 135B may direct the appropriate peripheral 130B to issue a message to a particular player. For example, a message including a gambler anonymous hotline link or telephone number may be output to a player determined to be potentially in need of attention as a problem gambler.

[0168] The information received by the peripheral 130B from the gaming device 110B may include gaming data such as the number of games played per unit time, an indication of any input provided by the player to the gaming device (e.g., a cash-out request, a coin-in, a number of game plays initiated, a payline selection, a bet selection, etc.), an outcome (outcount) displayed for the initiated game, a payout (payout) corresponding to the displayed outcome, a credit (credit) balance metered by the gaming device, and/or data associated with the player currently playing the gaming device 130B.

[0169] In one embodiment, peripheral 130B may include one or more sensors associated with the gaming device. For example, the peripheral 130B may include one or more of the following: (i) a microphone for detecting a sound made by a player of the game device; (ii) a weight sensor for detecting that a player is seated on a chair associated with the gaming device; (iii) a tilt sensor for detecting a player tilting or moving the gaming device (e.g., a player attempting to shake the gaming device); (iv) (iv) a camera for capturing images of the player and/or the gaming device, and/or (v) one or more pressure sensors for detecting whether the player has struck the gaming device. Such sensors may be used, for example, in embodiments where a player exhibits offensive behavior on a gaming device that is interpreted as an indication that the player needs to be attended to as a problem gambler, and/or as a factor in determining whether the player is qualified as a problem gambler.

[0170] In one or more embodiments, the functions described herein as being performed by peripheral server 135B and/or peripheral 130B may be performed by controller 105B (instead of or in addition to being performed by peripheral server 135B and/or peripheral 130B). These functions may be performed by controller 105B in system 100A (fig. 1A) or by controller 105A in system 100B (fig. 1B).

[0171] In one or more embodiments, the peripheral 130B may be useful for implementing the present invention as an otherwise conventional gaming device operation or in minimizing the necessary adjustments to the gaming device or its programming. For example, to avoid or minimize the necessity to modify or replace programs already stored in conventional gaming device memory, external or internal modules including peripherals 130B may be inserted into or associated with the gaming device. For example, a conventional gaming device may be retrofitted with peripheral 130B in order to implement one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0172] Thus, for example, the peripheral 130B may be used to monitor a player's play or other activity at a gaming device and output a message to the player. In such an embodiment, gaming device 110B with which peripheral 130B communicates may continue to operate in a conventional manner. In such embodiments, gaming device 110B may continue to output the outcome, payout, and/or prize (bonus) for each game played. The peripheral 130B may output messages to the player, capture images of the player and/or the gaming device, capture data related to the player's actions at the gaming device, and/or transmit indications of such actions to another device. In one embodiment, peripheral 130B may be operative to affect the operation of associated gaming device 110B. For example, peripheral 130B may be operative to interrupt play of associated gaming device 110B (e.g., in response to receiving a signal from another device).

[0173] Thus, peripheral 130B may include (i) a communication port (e.g., for communicating with one or more gaming devices 110B, peripheral server 135B, another peripheral 130B, and/or controller 105B); (ii) a display (e.g., for displaying messages), (iii) another output device (e.g., a speaker, a light or motion device for communicating with the player), (iv) an input device (e.g., for receiving input from a casino employee or from another device).

[0174] In one or more embodiments, peripheral 130B associated with gaming device 110B may not output a message to the player, but may instead direct the gaming device's processor to perform such functions. For example, a program stored in the memory of peripheral 130B may cause the processor of gaming device 110B to perform certain functions. For example, a program stored in a memory of peripheral 130B may cause a processor of gaming device 110B to output a message, access a database, transmit a signal or indication, interrupt operation of a game playing device, capture an image of a player of the game device, and/or communicate with another device.

[0175] Note that in one or more embodiments, gaming device 110B and peripheral 130B associated with the gaming device may not communicate with each other at all. But each may communicate with a computer or other device. For example, a gaming device may communicate with controller 105B, while an associated peripheral 130B may communicate with peripheral server 135B and/or controller 105B. For example, if gaming device 110B and peripheral 130B are both in communication with controller 105B, each may obtain information associated with the other through controller 105B.

[0176] Referring now to fig. 2A, illustrated therein is a block diagram of an embodiment 200A of a gaming device (e.g., gaming device 110A and/or gaming device 110B). Embodiment 200A is referred to herein as gaming device 200A. The gaming device 200A may be implemented as a system controller, dedicated hardware circuitry, a suitably programmed general-purpose computer, or any other equivalent electronic, mechanical or electromechanical device. The gaming device 200A may include, for example, a slot machine, a video poker terminal, a video blackjack terminal, a video keno terminal, a video lotto terminal, a pinball machine, or a table game. In various embodiments, the gaming device may include, for example, a personal computer (e.g., which may communicate with an online casino website), a telephone (e.g., to communicate with an automatic sports book (sports book) providing gaming services), or a portable handheld gaming device (e.g., a personal digital assistant or nintendo game boy). In some embodiments, gaming device 200A may include a device operative to facilitate table games (e.g., a device operative to monitor blackjack games (e.g., player wager size, cards received, and/or decisions made)). Gaming device 200A may include any or all of gaming devices 110A of system 100A (FIG. 1A), and/or any or all of gaming devices 110B of system 100B (FIG. 1B). In some embodiments, a user device such as a PDA or cellular telephone may be used in place of or in addition to some or all of the components of gaming device 200A depicted in FIG. 2A.

[0177] Additionally, gaming device 200A may comprise a personal computer or other device operable to communicate with and facilitate gaming of the online casino. In one or more embodiments, gaming device 200A may include a computing device operable to execute software that simulates playing a reel-up slot machine game, a video poker game, a video blackjack game, a video keno game, a video roulette game, or a lotto game.

[0178]The exemplary gaming device 200A includes a processor 205A, e.g., one or moreA processor. The processor 205A communicates with the memory 210A and the communication port 215A (the communication port 215A is used, for example, to communicate with one or more other devices, such as peripherals 130B and/or controller 105A). The memory 210A may include a suitable combination of magnetic, optical, and/or semiconductor memory, and may include, for example, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), a compact disc, and/or a hard disk. Memory 210A may include or contain any type of computer-readable media. The processor 205A and memory 210A may each, for example, (i) reside entirely within a single computer or other device; or (ii) connected to each other through a remote communication medium such as a serial port cable, a telephone line, or a radio frequency transceiver. In one embodiment, gaming device 200A may comprise a device connected to one or more remote server computers for maintaining databases.

[0179] The memory 210A stores a program 220A for controlling the processor 205A. The processor 305 executes instructions of the program 220A and thus operates according to embodiments of the present invention, particularly according to the methods described in detail herein. Program 220A, as well as any other programs for the processors described herein, may be stored in a compressed, uncompiled, and/or encrypted format. The following description of the program 220A applies equally to all programs used to boot the processors described herein. The programs 220A may also include program elements that may be necessary, such as an operating system, a database management system, and "device drivers" to allow the processor 205A to interface with a computer peripheral. Suitable program elements are known to those skilled in the art and need not be described in detail herein.

[0180] According to an embodiment, the instructions of program 220A may be read into main memory (e.g., from ROM to RAM) from another computer-readable medium. Execution of the sequences of instructions in the program 220A may cause the processor 205A to perform one or more of the process steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the processes of the present invention. Thus, embodiments described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware and software. As discussed with respect to system 100B of fig. 1B, execution of sequences of instructions in a program by peripheral 130B in communication with gaming device 200A may also cause processor 205A to perform some or all of the process steps described herein.

[0181] The memory 210A may also store one or more databases. For example, memory 210A may store one or more of a probabilistic database (not shown) and a spending database (not shown).

[0182] The fields of the probabilistic database may indicate, for example: (i) a random number (or range of random numbers) that may be generated by a random number generator; and (ii) indicating an outcome of one or more marks that constitute the outcome, the outcome corresponding to a random number of a particular record. The game device 200A may determine, for example, what outcome corresponds to the random number generated by the random number generator using the probabilistic database and display the determined outcome. The outcome may include three symbols displayed along the paylines of a three-reel slot machine. Other arrangements of the probabilistic database are possible. For example, Jim Regan's book "wining At Slot Machines" (Carol publishing group edition, 1997) illustrates examples of payout and probability tables and how they may be obtained. The entire contents of this book are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0183] The fields of the expense database may specify: (i) indicating an outcome of one or more markers, the one or more markers comprising the outcome; and (ii) payouts corresponding to each respective outcome. For example, if gaming device 200A includes a three reel slot machine, the outcome may be an outcome obtained on a three reel slot machine.

[0184] The gaming device 200A may utilize the payout database to determine whether a payout should be output to the player as a result of the outcome achieved for a game. For example, after determining the outcomes to be output on the gaming device, the gaming device may access a payout database to determine whether the outcome for output is one of the outcomes stored as corresponding to a payout. If so, the gaming device may provide a corresponding indication to the player through the benefit output device described herein. For example, many payout and probability tables and examples of how they may be obtained are illustrated previously by the book "wining At Slot Machines" (Carol publishing group edition, 1997) by Jim Regan, incorporated by reference.

[0185] As described, in one or more embodiments, the data can be stored in a memory of another device (e.g., a database of the controller 105A or a database of another server device). In one or more embodiments, gaming device 200A may be operable to access its data, or cause information associated with the data stored therein, to be downloaded to the gaming device, as necessary and/or appropriate. For example, the gaming device 200A may access the memory of another device to determine whether the player has been previously identified as a potential problem gambler, whether an event has been assigned to the player, and/or to determine an action to be taken by the player for which the gaming device has been identified as a potential problem gambler.

[0186] In one embodiment, memory 210A may store a database of events or actions that, for a player, may trigger gaming device 200A to transmit an indication to another device (e.g., controller 105A) that the player currently playing gaming device 200A may need to be attended to as a problem gambler. Of course, in other embodiments, such a list may not be stored in the form of a database, but may be stored in another form (e.g., as instructions or code comprising the program 220A or subroutines thereof). Regardless of the form in which such lists are stored, the following is an exemplary list of events or actions for a player, the occurrence or detection of one or more of which may result in gaming device 200A transmitting such an indication:

(i) a player actuating or attempting to actuate an input device (e.g., a reel starting mechanism) of a gaming device during an inactive (inactive) state of the input device (e.g., a player has attempted to spin a reel when the reel has not stopped spinning from a previously launched game play);

(ii) the player has selected or attempted to select a feature or option that is not available to the player (e.g., the player has attempted to select a wager amount that is not available to the player due to an insufficient available credit balance, or a payline or paylines that are not available to the player due to an insufficient available credit balance)

(iii) The player has taken (engage in) some wagering activity as described herein;

(iv) the player has taken some coin-in action as described herein;

(v) the player has taken some of the cashing actions as described herein; and

(vi) the player has taken some video poker strategy as described herein.

[0188] It should be noted that, according to some embodiments and as described herein, a player repeatedly or permanently performing one of the above-described actions or taking one of the above-described patterns of action may be a trigger for the transmission of an indication that the player may need to be concerned as a problem gambler, whereas a player performing one or more of the above-described actions on an individual or occasional basis or taking one of the above-described actions may not. For example, if a player takes an action or takes an action within a predetermined time unit for a predetermined minimum number of times (or a predetermined minimum number of consecutive times), the player may be deemed to have repeatedly or persistently performed the action or taken the action. For example, if a player attempts to select a pay line or pay lines once or occasionally that are not available to the player due to an insufficient balance of available credits, and/or attempts to initiate spinning of a reel before the reel has not stopped spinning from a previous game play, it may not result in any signal or indication being transmitted. However, if the player permanently attempts to restart spinning of the reels before the reels have not stopped spinning from the previously initiated game play (e.g., the player is continuously slapping or pressing a reel spin button of the slot machine), this action may result in a signal or indication being transmitted to another device that the player may need to be concerned as a problem gambler. Of course, in some embodiments, devices other than gaming device 200A may analyze, process, or compare the player's actions or behavior patterns to determine whether the player needs to be attended as a problem gambler. In such embodiments, gaming device 200A may simply transmit an indication of each player action or each qualified player action to the other device (or the other device may otherwise determine each such player action or qualified player action) for analysis, processing, or comparison.

[0189] Note that while the above databases and lists are described as being stored in gaming device 200A, in other embodiments of the present invention, some or all of these databases and/or lists may be stored in part or in whole (in addition to or instead of being stored in memory 210A of gaming device 200A) in another device. For example, such other devices may include one or more peripherals 130B, another gaming device 110A or 110B, a peripheral server 135B, a controller 105A, a controller 105B, another device, and/or combinations thereof. Additionally, some or all of the data described as being stored in the aforementioned databases and/or lists may be stored in part or in whole (in addition to or instead of being stored in memory 210A of gaming device 200A) in the memory of one or more other devices. For example, these other devices may include one or more peripherals 130B, another gaming device 110A or 110B, a peripheral server 135B, a controller 105A, a controller 105B, another device, and/or combinations thereof.

[0190] The processor 205A is also operable to communicate with a random number generator 225A, which random number generator 225A may be a component of the gaming device 200A. According to at least one embodiment, random number generator 225A (as well as any other random number generator described herein) may generate data (referred to herein as a "random number") that represents a random or pseudo-random value. The random number generator may generate random numbers every predetermined unit of time (e.g., every second) or in response to a game initiation on the gaming device. In the former embodiment, the random number may be used when the generated random number is generated (e.g., the random number generated substantially at the initiation of a game is used for the game), and/or stored for future use.

[0191] As used herein, the random number generator may be implemented as a processor separate from the processor 205A but working in conjunction with the processor 205A. Additionally, the random number generator may be implemented as an algorithm, a program component, or software stored in a memory of the gaming device or other device and used to generate random numbers.

[0192]Note that although the generation or obtaining of the random number is described herein as involving a random number generator of the gaming device, other methods of determining the random number may be employed. For example, the owner or operator of the gaming device may obtainA set of random numbers that has been generated by another entity. For example, HotBs^TMIs a service that provides random numbers generated by timed sequential pairs of radioactive decay that have been detected by a Geiger-Muller tube interfaced with a computer. A blower mechanism (ball mechanism) using real balls with numbers thereon may be used to determine random numbers by randomly selecting one ball and determining the number thereof.

[0193] Processor 205A may also be operable to communicate with benefit output device 230A, which benefit output device 230A may be a component of gaming device 200A. Benefit output device 230A may include one or more devices for outputting a benefit to a player of gaming device 200A. For example, in one embodiment, the gaming device 200A may provide coins and/or tokens as a benefit. In such an embodiment, the benefit output device 230A may include a hopper and hopper controller for dispensing coins and/or tokens to a coin tray of the gaming device 200A.

[0194] In another embodiment, the gaming device 200A may provide a receipt or other document printed with an indication of benefit (e.g., a cashless gaming receipt having a monetary value printed thereon that is redeemable for the monetary amount of cash). In such an embodiment, the benefit output device 230A may include a printing mechanism and a document dispensing mechanism. In another embodiment, the gaming device 200A may provide an electronically available credit for benefit (e.g., may be subsequently converted to coins and/or tokens and dispensed from a hopper to a coin tray). In such an embodiment, benefit output device 230A may include an available credit balance device and/or a processor that manages the amount of electronically available credit represented on the display of the available credit balance device. The processor may be the processor 205A or another processor. In another embodiment, gaming device 200A may credit a monetary amount to a financial account associated with the player as a benefit provided to the player. The financial account may be, for example, a credit card account, a debit account, a billing account, a checking account, and/or a casino account. In such an embodiment, benefit output device 230A may include a device for communicating with a server that maintains the financial account.

[0195] Note that in one or more embodiments, gaming device 200A may include more than one benefit output device 230A, although only one benefit output device is shown in FIG. 2A. For example, gaming apparatus 200A may include both a hopper and hopper controller combination and an available credit metering device. Such gaming devices may be operable to provide more than one type of benefit to a player of the gaming device. A single benefit output device 230A may be operable to output more than one type of benefit. For example, benefit output device 230A may be operable to increase the available credit balance in the available credit metering device and may communicate with a remote device to increase the balance of a financial account associated with the player.

[0196] Processor 205A is also operable to communicate with a display device 235A, which display device 235A may be a component of gaming device 200A. Display device 235A may include, for example, one or more display screens or zones, such as a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) monitor, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen, or a Light Emitting Diode (LED) screen, for outputting information related to game plays on the gaming device.

[0197] In one or more embodiments, gaming device 200A may include more than one display device 235A. For example, gaming device 200A may include an LCD display for displaying an electronic reel, as well as a display device including a window behind which a mechanical reel is located and which displays a spinning mechanical reel during a game play.

[0198] In one embodiment, the display device 235A is operable to display a message to a player. For example, a message may be output that is targeted to restrict the gambling behavior (e.g., inappropriate gambling behavior) of a player identified as the problem gambler. For example, such messages may present questionnaires to the player to assist the player in determining whether the player has gaming problems, and/or may provide the player with information about hotline phones or organizations (e.g., gambler anonymity organizations) that may assist the player in controlling inappropriate gambling behavior. In one embodiment, the message may output information to the player about the player's own gambling behavior to explain to the player why the player may be a problem gambler (e.g., if you know that you have lost $ 500 per day in the last four days, and do you have not rested in the past three hours gambling.

[0199] The processor 205A may also communicate with one or more other output devices in addition to the display device 235A for outputting information, such as to a player or another device. Such other output device or devices may also be a component of gaming device 200A. Such other output device(s) may include, for example, an audio speaker (e.g., for outputting messages to a player in addition to or in lieu of such messages output via display device 235A), an infrared transmitter, a radio transmitter, a motor, a printer (e.g., for printing cashless gaming tokens), a coupon or product dispenser, an infrared port (e.g., for communicating with a second gaming device or portable device of a player), a Braille computer monitor, and a coin or bill dispenser. For gaming devices, common output devices include Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) monitors on video poker machines, bells on gaming devices (e.g., ringing when a player wins), player available balance LED displays on gaming devices, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) LCD displays for displaying keno numbers.

[0200] Display device 235A may include, for example, one or more different display regions and/or one or more different display devices. For example, one of the display areas may display the outcome of a game played on a gaming device (e.g., an electronic reel of the gaming device). Another display area may display rules for playing the game of the gaming device. Yet another display area may display benefits (e.g., in the form of a payout table) obtainable by playing a game of the gaming device. Yet another display area can display a message to the player (e.g., a message targeted to restrict inappropriate gambling behavior by problem gamblers or potential problem gamblers). In one or more embodiments, gaming device 200A may include more than one display device, one or more other output devices, or a combination thereof (e.g., two display devices and two audio speakers).

[0201] The processor 205A is also in communication with an input device 240A, which input device 240A is a device operable to receive input (e.g., from a player or another device), and may be a component of the gaming device 200A. The input device may be in communication with or part of another device (e.g., a server, a gaming device, etc.). Some embodiments of the input device include: a bar code scanner, a magnetic stripe reader, a computer keyboard or keypad, buttons (e.g., mechanical, electromechanical, or "soft" buttons, such as part of a touch screen), a joystick, a keypad, a touch screen, a microphone, an infrared sensor, a voice recognition module, a coin or bill acceptor, a sonar rangefinder, a computer port, a video camera, a motion detector, a digital camera, a network card, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, a GPS receiver, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) receiver, an RF receiver, a thermometer, a pressure sensor, an infrared port (e.g., for receiving communications from a second gaming device or another device, such as a player's smart card or PDA), and a scale. For gaming devices, common input devices include buttons or touch screens on video poker machines, joysticks or joysticks connected to the gaming devices, magnetic strip readers that read player tracking cards inserted into the gaming devices, touch screens for entering player selections during game play, and coin and bill acceptors. Input device 240A may include any one of the above-described input devices or any combination thereof (i.e., input device 240A may include more than one input device).

[0202]In some embodiments, gaming device 200A may include components (i.e., input/output devices) that can facilitate input and output functions. In one embodiment, the touch-sensitive display screen includes an input/output device (e.g., the device outputs graphics and receives selections from a player). In another embodiment, the processor may be in communication with a "ticket in/ticket out" device configured to dispense and receive redemption tickets. Such devices may also assist (e.g., provide data to facilitate) various accounting functions (e.g., ticket checking and redemption). E.g. at cashier cabinetsAny or all of the casino gaming devices, kiosks, and casino employee devices may (i) include such benefit input/output devices, and/or (ii) communicate with a central server that manages accounting transactions associated with such ticket in/out transactions (e.g., to track issuance, redemption, and expiration of such tickets). One example of a ticketing in/out technique that may be employed or used to implement embodiments described herein is EZ Pay^TMA system, manufactured by International Gaming Technology, Inc., headquartered in Reno, Nevada.

[0203] Of course, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, gaming device 200A may include various combinations of any or all of the component devices described herein. For example, in one or more embodiments, a gaming device may include more than one display device, one or more other output devices, several input devices, and so forth (e.g., two display screens, two audio speakers, headphones, a ticket in/out device, and several buttons).

[0204] One embodiment of a particular input device 240A, which may be a component of gaming device 200A, is a sensor element 245A. Sensor element 245A may be a component of gaming device 200A or otherwise may be associated with gaming device 200A (and operable, for example, to provide information to gaming device 200A). Sensor 245A may comprise any device or combination of devices operable to detect, receive, measure, determine and/or derive an indication of (i) a change in a parameter, (ii) a value of the parameter, and/or (iii) a status of the device and/or the parameter. In particular, in some embodiments, sensor element 245A may comprise an element, component, device, mechanism, or other means for sensing information associated with a player playing gaming device 200A. For example, the sensor elements 245A may include one or more of the following:

(i) a pressure or weight sensor in a seat associated with gaming device 200A operable to determine when a person has sat down at the seat and rises up from the seat;

(ii) sensors associated with one or more buttons (or a plurality of sensors, each sensor associated with a respective button) of gaming device 200A, operable to determine when one or more buttons are actuated, even if the one or more buttons are in an inactive state when actuated;

(iii) a tilt and/or shake sensor operable to determine when the gaming device has been tilted or shaken;

(iv) one or more pressure sensors within or on the cabinet housing of the gaming device 200A operable to determine when the gaming device 200A has been knocked or struck;

(v) a camera for capturing images and/or analyzing images (e.g., player expressions, player eye positions, changes in player expressions and/or eye positions);

(vi) a microphone operable to determine a sound made by a player (to determine whether the player is cursing or barking or otherwise expressing aggressiveness to the gaming device 200A); and

(vii) a sensor for determining an amount of money provided to the gaming device.

[0205] It should be noted that for item (ii) in the list according to some embodiments described above, it may be desirable to determine whether the player has actuated (or otherwise selected or initiated) or attempted to actuate (or otherwise select or initiate) the input device of gaming device 200A during the inactive state of the input device. An input device may be considered to be in an inactive state if an event, action, instruction, or other subroutine typically triggered within the gaming device in response to a player actuating or selecting the input device is not available, is not triggered, and/or cannot be executed by the gaming device. The only event triggered at the gaming device by the player attempting to actuate or actuate the input device during the inactive state of the gaming device may be outputting an indication to the player that the gaming device is not capable of being performed by the gaming device in the inactive state and/or the desired action. For example, it may be desirable to determine that a player has attempted to actuate or otherwise initiate a reel activation mechanism of gaming device 200A during an inactive state of the reel activation mechanism. For example, the reel activation structure may be inactive when the reel has not stopped spinning from a previously initiated game play. This determination may be desirable because the applicant has recognized that a player's attempt to activate a reel of a gaming device when the reel has not stopped spinning from a previously initiated game play (or similarly, in a video poker device, a new set of initial cards is dealt before a previous hand has not been resolved) may be a sign or indication of a problem gambler.

[0206] In conventional gaming devices, the gaming device simply does not recognize or ignore the player's attempt to actuate or the player actuates (or otherwise selects, attempts to select, or initiates) an input device during the inactive state of the gaming device. As described, an indication of the inactive state is at most output in response to the player actuating or attempting to actuate the input device during the inactive state. In other words, events, actions, or subroutines otherwise associated with activation of the input device or input device are not triggered, and the indication of actuation or attempted actuation of the input device by the player during the inactive state is not recognized as a significant (significant) event by the gaming device or any other device associated with the gaming device. Rather, in the embodiments described herein, applicants have recognized that such actions on behalf of a player provide valuable or potentially valuable information (e.g., whether the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler), and that such actions should be recognized, captured, detected, or otherwise determined by the gaming device (or another device, such as a peripheral associated with the gaming device).

[0207] Accordingly, applicants have invented an apparatus and method for learning such player actions. It should be noted that the above description of determining that a player has actuated or attempted to actuate an input device during an inactive state of the input device applies equally to game device features or options that a player selects or attempts to select (e.g., due to an insufficient available credit balance) that are not available to the player. For example, this may be an indication that the player may need to be concerned as a problem gambler, i.e., to determine that the player has attempted (on a repeated or persistent basis) to select a maximum wager amount and/or a maximum number of paylines on a reel-up slot machine when the player does not have sufficient available credit in the available credit balance to support the selection.

[0208] The processor 205A is also in communication with a payment system 250A, which payment system 250A may be a component of the gaming device 200A. The payout system 250A is a device that can accept a payout (e.g., a wager or initial balance) from a player and/or provide a payout (e.g., a payout) to the player. Payment is not limited to currency, but may also include other types of considerations, including products, services, and token replacements. In some embodiments, the payment system 250A may be considered an example of an input device 240A.

[0209] An exemplary method of accepting payment by the payment system 250A includes (i) accepting hard currency (i.e., coins or notes), and thus the payment system 250A may include a coin or note acceptor; (ii) receive replacement tokens (e.g., paper cashless gaming tokens, coupons, non-negotiable tokens), and thus the payment system 250A may include a barcode reader or other sensing device; (iii) receiving a payment identifier (e.g., credit card number, debit card number, player tracking card number) and crediting an account identified by the payment identifier; and (iv) determining that the player has performed a value-added activity.

[0210] The processor 205A also communicates with a player tracking device 255A, which player tracking device 255A may be a component of the gaming device 200A. In some embodiments, the player tracking device 255A may be considered an example of an input device 240A. In one or more embodiments, the player tracking device 255A may include a reader device operable to read information from and/or write information to a card (such as a smart card and/or a player tracking card) so that (i) a player may be identified and (ii) various data associated with the player may then be determined. For example, wagers, coin-ins, and/or cash-outs previously participated in by the player may be determined based on information associated with the player identifier. In another embodiment, the strategy previously employed in the video poker game may be similarly determined. In yet another embodiment, the actions previously taken by the player that can help identify the player as a potential problem gambler can be associated with the player identifier (e.g., whether the player has previously been identified as a potential problem gambler, whether the player has previously hit or yell the gaming device, whether the player has previously attempted to actuate or actuated the input device during the inactive state, etc.). Similarly, a number of cash-out available lines available to the player may be determined, a number of promotion available lines associated with the player may be determined that cash may not be redeemed, a code or other indication of the benefit provided to the player may be determined, a number of loyalty points (loyalty points) associated with the player may be determined, a number of loyalty game elements (e.g., symbols), cards or hands (hands) associated with the player may be determined, and so forth.

[0211] In one embodiment, a card reader device including the player tracking device 255A may determine an identifier associated with the player (e.g., by reading a player tracking card including an encoded version of the identifier) so that the gaming device may access data associated with the player (e.g., of a player database, session database). In another embodiment, the smart card reader device may determine the data associated with the player directly by accessing a memory into which the smart card is inserted.

[0212] As described in detail below, for example, a player database may be used to store player wager data (e.g., so that players who wager in excess of a given threshold for a given time may be rewarded with their patronage, be eligible for a particular feature, be identified as potential problem gamblers, etc.). The player database may also contain other information that may be used, for example, to facilitate and manage player behavior (e.g., information about a player's game preferences, housing arrangements, etc.). Additionally, the player database may store data regarding whether a given player is participating in a gaming session and/or bonus game and/or whether an event has been dispatched in response to identifying the player as a problem gambler. These player data may be stored in a relational database and retrieved or accessed by the processor upon receiving a "key" data point from the player, such as a unique identifier read from the player tracking card or redemption ticket of the player.

[0213]In one embodiment, the player tracking device 255A may include (i) a card reader (e.g., a port into which a player tracking card may be inserted), (ii) various input devices (e.g., keypad, touch screen), (iii) various output devices (e.g., a small, full-color display screen), and/or (iv) combinations thereof (e.g., a touch-sensitive display screen that accommodates both input and output functionality). Various commercially available devices may be suitable for this application, such as NextGen manufactured by IGT^TMAn interactive player tracking panel, oriVIEW displays manufactured by Gaming and Systems.

[0214]As is well known in the art, a "smart card" may contain (i) memory, and (ii) means for accessing such memory. For example, in one embodiment, the memory may store data related to aspects of the invention. In one embodiment, data may be written to the smart card while the player is playing one or more gaming devices (e.g., so that various data may be updated on a continuous, periodic, or event-triggered basis). Thus, in one or more embodiments, one or more devices (e.g., gaming device 200A or controller 105A) used to perform the various processes of the present invention may have a smart card reading device associated therewith, such that data may be read from a smart card in accordance with the performance of those processes. An example of a Smart Card system that may be used to implement one or more embodiments of the present invention is from Smart Card Integrators, Inc.^TMs-Choice of^TMA smart card casino management system.

[0215] Of course, other non-card-based methods of identifying a player are also contemplated. For example, a unique identifier code may be associated with a player. Then, when the code is entered, the player is identified. For example, a code may be stored (e.g., in a database maintained within the gaming device or controller 105A) so that a player may enter the code using an input device of the gaming device, thus making the player uniquely identifiable. In other embodiments, a player's biometric marker may be used as an identification means (e.g., identifying the player by a fingerprint or retinal scan of the player). In further embodiments, the barcode of the cashless gaming ticket may encode a player identifier.

[0216] Thus, as described, various data associated with the player can be tracked and stored (e.g., in an appropriate record of a centrally maintained database) so that it can be accessed as needed (e.g., when determining whether the player is qualified as a problem gambler). In addition, various statistics associated with the player (e.g., coin-in statistics, win/loss statistics, bid amount for a stage) may be measured and accessed in a similar manner.

[0217]Various systems for facilitating monitoring of player behavior and activities are contemplated. For example, a two-wire (twowire) system, such as that provided by International Gaming Systems (IGT), may be used. Similarly, protocols may be used, such as the IGT SASTM protocol or IGT SuperSAS^TMAnd (4) protocol. SAS^TMProtocol or SuperSAS^TMThe protocol allows communication between the gaming machine and the slot machine accounting system, respectively, as well as providing a secure method of communicating all necessary data provided by the gaming device to the online monitoring system. SAS advantageous in implementing aspects of the invention^TMProtocol and SuperSAS^TMOne aspect of the protocol is an authentication function that allows the operator or manager to remotely query the gaming device for important memory identification information for both the gaming program and the peripheral devices. In another embodiment, a single wire (one wire) system may be used, such as by Aristoctra Technologies^TMProvided OASIS^TMSystems or by Bally Gaming and Systems^TMAn SDS coin-operated game floor (floor) monitoring system is provided. Each of the above systems is an integrated information system that continuously monitors slot machine and customer gaming activities. Thus, for example, thisAny of these systems may be used to monitor a player's gaming activity to determine a player's outcome, buy-in amount, coin-in statistics, win/loss statistics, and/or any other data deemed relevant.

[0218] In one embodiment, a player may operate multiple gaming devices, for example, a player may play two adjacent gaming devices simultaneously, a player may play one gaming device (e.g., a gaming device) and then continue his gaming session at another gaming device (e.g., a video poker machine), and a player may remotely operate a gaming device, perhaps by using a phone, PDA, or other device (i) to communicate commands to the gaming devices (directly or indirectly), such as commands to wager amounts and select certain cards; and/or (ii) receive output (directly or indirectly) from a gaming device.

[0219] In one embodiment, the gaming device may allow a player to play games of skill rather than games of chance. Such an embodiment may be more attractive to certain players or may be used in areas where gaming on a game of chance is not allowed by law.

[0220] In one embodiment, gaming device 200A may be used to facilitate downloadable games such that games available on gaming device 200A may be stored on a server device (e.g., controller 105A, controller 105B, or other dedicated device) and downloaded to gaming device 200A. In one embodiment, the software components of gaming device 200A may be modified and/or updated remotely by another device (e.g., controller 105A, controller 105B, or another device). For example, a pay or probability table stored in a memory of gaming device 200A may be replaced, modified, or updated, a hot patch (hot fix) may be applied to software stored by gaming device 200A and/or a new version of software may be downloaded to gaming device 200A. Similarly, gaming device 200A may be programmed to retrieve any or all updates from another device, as appropriate and preferred. For example, any of the above (e.g., game download, software update, payout, or likelihood table modification) may occur based on an event occurrence (e.g., dispatch of an event), an indication received from a qualified casino employee or other employee (e.g., a supervisor), and/or upon a request from a player. In one embodiment, gaming device 200A may comprise a thin client (e.g., controller 105A, controller 105B, or another dedicated device) that is controlled as a server device.

[0221] In one or more embodiments, aspects of the invention may be implemented by replacing and/or adding one or more components (e.g., hardware and/or software components) of an existing gaming device, such as identifying a player as a problem gambler and causing an event to be dispatched in response thereto. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the present invention may be used as an update or upgrade to existing gaming devices currently available in various casinos.

[0222] For example, memory (e.g., a computer chip) of the gaming device may be replaced or added, the replaced or added memory storing a program for instructing a processor of the gaming device to operate in accordance with one or more embodiments. In another embodiment, data output by the gaming device (e.g., graphical and/or textual data displayed on the gaming device) may be replaced or augmented, the replaced or augmented data representing player information related to one or more aspects of the present invention.

[0223] In particular embodiments, the gaming device may include various electronic components mounted to one or more Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). These components may include the various hardware described herein, such as the peripheral communication ports and various controllers (e.g., display controllers), as well as memory for storing programming instructions (software) and a processor for executing these instructions. Forms of memory that may be found in gaming devices include electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and flash memory. Thus, in one or more embodiments of the invention, the EPROM storing software having instructions for performing aspects of the invention (and instructions for performing other functions typically performed by a gaming device) may replace the EPROM previously installed in a gaming device or may be reprogrammed in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein so that the gaming device may be configured to operate in accordance with the various processes described herein.

[0224] For example, a "problem gambler identification" module may be made available to various casino operators. The module, which may include various hardware and software (e.g., an EEPROM storing software instructions), may be installed in an existing gaming device (e.g., a video reel slot machine, a video poker machine, etc.), such that, when the module is installed, a player of the device may elect to (i) play the gaming device in a manner that is not encompassed by the embodiments described herein, or (ii) play the gaming device in a manner that is encompassed by the embodiments described herein (e.g., can be identified as a problem gambler). Thus, players familiar with operating gaming devices may choose to pay for them in a different or similar manner to which they are accustomed.

[0225] Similarly, in addition to or instead of the player being able to select the mode of operation of the gaming device, in some embodiments, the casino operator may also be able to do so. For example, a casino operator can select whether to operate the gaming device in a regular mode or a "problem gambler identification" mode.

[0226] Thus, the gaming device may be configured to allow a player, casino operator, or other entity to select one of two "modes" of the gaming device, as well as enable the selected mode. If the player selects the "standard" mode, the gaming device may be configured to operate in a similar manner as how it would operate before the module is installed (e.g., the gaming device operates in a conventional manner so as not to take advantage of the embodiments described herein). If the "problem gambler identification" mode is selected, the gaming device may be used to execute a game according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0227] In one embodiment, which allows an entity to select one or more modes, a touch sensitive display screen may be configured to output a prompt to select a mode of operation. Such a prompt may be output upon the occurrence of various trigger conditions (e.g., insertion of a coin, bill or ticket; the available credit balance increases from zero to some other number; the player presses a "PLAY" button; the presence of a player is detected by motion, weight, infrared or other sensors, etc.; the gaming device is turned on, started, reconfigured and/or restarted, etc.). Accordingly, the entity may select the mode of operation (e.g., by clicking on an appropriately labeled icon of the touch-sensitive display screen), and upon receiving the selection of the entity, the gaming device may be configured to operate in the selected mode.

[0228] In another embodiment, the gaming device can be used to automatically determine whether it should switch from the standard mode to the "problem gambler identification" mode. The gaming device may perform such a determination by, for example, evaluating data received from the player and/or another device and/or by querying another device. For example, the gaming device may be programmed to determine (e.g., after receiving the player identifier and based on the player identifier) whether the player currently playing the gaming device has been qualified as a problem gambler.

[0229] In one embodiment, the gaming device may be used to output an indication that it is currently in a "problem gambler identification" mode (e.g., informing the player that the gaming device currently playing may result in the player being identified as a potential problem gambler). For example, the gaming device may turn on lights, change graphics, output sounds, and so forth.

[0230] In other embodiments, peripherals may be used to implement one or more embodiments of the present invention as the operation of a conventional gaming device, as described herein. For example, to avoid or minimize the necessity of modifying or replacing programs already stored in the memory of conventional gaming devices, external or internal modules, including peripherals, may be inserted, connected or associated with the gaming device. Such peripherals may be used, for example, to monitor and/or communicate information regarding the gaming activity of the player at the gaming device to another device (e.g., controller 105A). The peripheral device may monitor and/or transmit this information to enable a determination of whether the player is eligible for the problem gambler.

[0231] In further embodiments, in addition to configuring an existing gaming device to perform the embodiments described herein by installing or connecting new hardware and/or software, the software may be downloaded to existing memory of one or more gaming devices. U.S. patent No.6,805,634 to Wells et al teaches a method for downloading data to a gaming device in this manner. U.S. patent No.6,805,634 is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes. Thus, in some embodiments, existing gaming devices may be reprogrammed to accommodate the new functionality of the present invention without having to or with minimal need to remove and replace hardware within the gaming device.

[0232] Referring now to fig. 2B, illustrated therein is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment 2000 of an apparatus including a gaming device 200B in communication with a peripheral 260B, according to some embodiments described herein. Embodiment 2000 is referred to herein as device 2000. Gaming device 200B may communicate with peripheral 260B over network 265B. Communication between gaming device 200B and peripheral 260B may be direct or indirect, such as over the Internet through a website maintained by a computer on a remote server, or over an online data network including a commercial online service provider, bulletin board system, or the like. In other embodiments, any or all of the devices of apparatus 2000 may communicate with each other via RF, cable TV, satellite link, and the like.

[0233]Some, but not all, possible communication networks that may comprise network 265B or otherwise be part of system 2000 include: local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), the internet, telephone lines, cables, radio channels, optical communication lines, and satellite communication links. Possible communication protocols that may be part of the system 2000 include: ethernet (or IEEE802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth^TMAnd TCP/IP. Communications may be encrypted to ensure privacy and prevent spoofing in a variety of ways known in the art.

[0234] Gaming device 200B may be similar to gaming device 200A (fig. 2A) and, thus, include many of the same or similar components and functionality. However, some of the functionality described as being performed by gaming device 200A cannot be performed by (or cannot be performed exclusively by) gaming device 200B, but instead or in addition to being performed by peripherals 260B. For example, one or more of the following may be performed by peripheral 260B (either alone or in cooperation with gaming device 200B):

(i) determining that a player of gaming device 200B has actuated or attempted to actuate an input device of gaming device 200B during an inactive state of the input device;

(ii) determining that a player of gaming device 200B has selected or attempted to select a gaming device feature or option that is not available to the player;

(iii) analyzing one or more activity or behavioral patterns of the player of gaming device 200B to determine whether the player needs to pay attention as a problem gambler;

(iv) transmitting an indication of one or more actions or behavioral patterns of the player of gaming device 200B to another device (e.g., for determining whether the player is qualified as a problem gambler);

(v) upon determining that the player of gaming device 200B is eligible as a problem gambler, dispatching an event; and

(vi) a message is output to the player of gaming device 200B that is targeted to restrict inappropriate gambling behavior by the player determined to be the problem gambler.

[0235] Peripheral 260B is an exemplary embodiment of peripheral 130B (fig. 1B). Peripheral 260B includes a processor 270B in communication with an output device 285 and a memory 275B. In some embodiments, the peripheral 130B may include a device operable to facilitate table games (e.g., a device operable to monitor blackjack games, such as monitoring player wager size, cards received, and/or decisions made).

[0236] Output device 285B may include, for example, a display device similar to display device 235A (fig. 2A), and/or a speaker or other type of device operable to output information. The processor 270B may be similar to the processor 205A (fig. 2A), and thus the description of the processor 205A above applies to the processor 270B.

[0237] Memory 275B may be similar to memory 210A (fig. 2A), and thus the description of memory 210A above applies to memory 275B. The memory 275B stores a program 280B for controlling the processor 270B. The processor 270B executes instructions of the program 280B and thereby operates according to one or more embodiments described herein, and in particular operates according to the methods described in detail herein. The description of the program 220A applies to the program 280B, and thus the program 280B need not be described in detail herein. Although not shown, the memory 275B may store one or more databases, such as a dispatched events database (described below and shown as also possibly stored in the controller 300 (fig. 3)). As described with respect to gaming device 200A, a database or list of events, actions, or player patterns may also be stored in memory 275B for use in determining whether an indication should be sent to another device and/or for use in determining whether a player may need to be attended as a problem gambler.

[0238] The game device 200B need not be described in detail here. Suffice it to say that gaming device 200B (as illustrated in fig. 2B) may include some or all of the same components as gaming device 200A, which components may function in the same manner as described with respect to fig. 2A.

[0239] Referring now to fig. 3, illustrated therein is an embodiment 300 of a controller operable to communicate with one or more gaming devices 210. Although three gaming devices 210 are illustrated, any number may be used. Gaming device 210 may include, for example, gaming device 110A or gaming device 110B. The embodiment 300 may be, for example, an embodiment of the controller 105A and/or an embodiment of the controller 105B. The embodiment 300 is referred to herein as a controller 300. It should be noted that as that term is used herein, the controller 300 may comprise a server device operable to communicate with one or more gaming devices.

[0240] The controller 300 may be implemented as a system controller, dedicated hardware circuitry, a suitably programmed general-purpose computer, or any other equivalent electronic, mechanical, or electromechanical device. Controller 300 may include, for example, a server to communicate with one or more client devices, such as one or more gaming devices, one or more kiosks, one or more peripherals, and/or one or more casino employee devices. The controller 300 may be operable to manage the system 100A and/or the system 100B (or portions of one or both systems) and perform some or all of the methods described herein.

[0241] In operation, controller 300 functions under the control of a casino, another merchant, or other entity that may also control the use of gaming device 110A and/or gaming device 110B. For example, the controller 300 may be a slot server in a casino. In some embodiments, the controller 300 and the slot server can be different devices. In some embodiments, the controller 300 may include multiple computers operating together. In some embodiments, the controller 300 and the gaming device may be the same device.

[0242]The controller 300 includes a processor 305, such as one or moreA processor. Processor 305 is in communication with communication port 310 (e.g., for communicating with one or more other devices, such as one or more gaming devices 110A and/or one or more gaming devices 110B) and memory 315. The memory 315 may include a suitable combination of magnetic, optical, and/or semiconductor memory, and may include, for example, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), a compact disc, and/or a hard disk. The processor 305 and memory 315 may each be, for example: (i) entirely within a single computer or other device; or (ii) connected to each other through a remote communication medium such as a serial port cable, a telephone line, or a radio frequency transceiver. In one embodiment, the controller 300 may include a remote server computer connected to maintain the databaseOne or more devices.

[0243] The memory 315 stores a program 320 for controlling the processor 305. The processor 305 executes instructions of the program 320, thereby operating in accordance with the present invention, and in particular, in accordance with the methods described in detail herein. Program 320 may be stored in a compressed, uncompiled, and/or encrypted format. The programs 320 additionally include program elements that may be necessary, such as an operating system, a database management system, and "device drivers" to allow the processor 305 to interface with computer peripherals. Suitable program elements are well known to those skilled in the art and need not be described in detail herein. The program 320 may include computer program code that allows the controller 300 to employ the communication port 310 to communicate with a gaming device (e.g., gaming device 400 described below), such as, for example:

1. tracking gambling or other activities performed at the gaming device;

2. tracking individual players' games or other activities;

3. tracking movement and/or facial expressions of a player at a gaming device;

4. determining any sound emitted by a player of the gaming device;

5. determining whether the player is qualified as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler;

6. dispatching an event if the player qualifies as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler;

7. instruct the gaming device to perform one or more functions (e.g., output a message to a player, interrupt a game, etc.);

8. determining whether a player currently playing a gaming device has been previously identified as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler;

9. assigning or otherwise determining a unique identifier for a player that has been identified as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler;

10. receiving input from a casino employee regarding a player who has been identified as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler (e.g., input indicative of the employee's interaction with the player);

11. controlling (e.g., preventing or regulating) access to stocked funds and/or available credit lines; and/or

12. The directing device (e.g., a casino's security camera, a gaming device's camera, a peripheral camera, etc.) focuses on the player who has been identified as a potential problem gambler.

[0244] According to an embodiment, the instructions of program 320 may be read into main memory from another computer-readable medium, such as from a ROM into a RAM. Execution of the sequences of instructions in execution program 320 causes processor 305 to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in addition to software instructions for implementing the processes of the present invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not limited to any specific combination of hardware and software.

[0245] The memory 315 also stores (i) a player database 325; (ii) a problem gambler database 330; (iii) dispatched events database 335; and (iv) an available event type database 340. Each of databases 325 through 340 is described in detail below.

[0246] In some embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the controller 300 manages downloadable games that are playable on one or more gaming devices), the memory 310 may store additional data. Examples of such additional databases include, but are not limited to, (i) a gaming device database storing information related to one or more gaming devices with which the controller 300 is operable to communicate, (ii) a gaming database storing information about games that are playable on and/or downloadable to one or more gaming devices, and (iii) a scheduling and/or configuration database useful for determining which games are to be available on which gaming devices.

[0247] Similarly, in one embodiment, the controller 300 may be operable to remotely configure the gaming device, update software stored on the gaming device, and/or download software or software components to the gaming device. For example, controller 300 may be operable to apply a hot patch (hot fix) to software stored at a gaming device, modify pay and/or probability tables stored at the gaming device, and/or transmit new versions of software and/or software components to the gaming device. The controller 300 may be programmed to perform any or all of the functions described above based on the occurrence of an event (e.g., a scheduled event), receiving an indication from a qualified casino employee and/or others (e.g., a regulator), and/or receiving a request from a player.

[0248] Although the databases 325-340 are described as being stored in the memory of the controller 300, in other embodiments, some or all of these databases may be stored in part or in full in the memory of one or more other devices instead of or in addition to being stored in the memory of the controller 300. Such one or more other devices may include, for example, one or more peripherals, one or more gaming devices, a slot server (if different from the controller 300), another device, or a combination thereof. In addition, some or all of the data described as being stored in memory 315 (in addition to or in place of being stored in memory 315) may be stored, in part or in whole, in memory of one or more other devices. Such one or more other devices may include, for example, one or more peripherals, one or more gaming devices, a slot server (if different from the controller 300), another device, or a combination thereof.

[0249] Various databases that may be useful in one or more embodiments will now be described. (i) A player database 325; (ii) a problem gambler database 330; (iii) dispatched events database 335; and (iv) exemplary structure and sample content of the available event type database 340 are shown in fig. 4A and 4B-fig. 7, respectively. The specific data and fields illustrated in these figures represent only some embodiments of records stored in the databases described herein. The data and fields of these databases can be easily modified, for example to include more or fewer data fields. A single database may also be used. Note that in the databases, different reference numbers are used to identify each field of each database. However, in at least one embodiment, a simply named field (e.g., a player identifier field) may store similar or identical data in a similar or identical data format.

[0250] Exemplary embodiments of databases 325, 330, 335, and 340 are described in detail below, and exemplary structures are depicted in the figures with sample entries. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the schematic illustration and related description of the sample database presented herein is an exemplary arrangement for storing representations of information. Any other arrangement than those suggested by the illustrated table may be employed. For example, although four separate databases are illustrated, the present invention may be practiced using one, two, three, four, five or more functionally equivalent databases. Similarly, the illustrated database entries represent exemplary information only; those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number and content of the items may vary from those shown herein. In addition, although the databases are described as tables, object-oriented models can be used to store and manipulate the data types of the present invention, and as such, object methods or behaviors can be used to implement the processes of the present invention.

[0251] It should also be noted that some or all of the data or data types illustrated in fig. 4A-7 may be stored and managed in each of gaming devices 110A or 110B, and may be used therein to manage, control, and/or monitor events at one or more gaming devices.

[0252] Referring now to fig. 4A and 4B, illustrated therein is a tabular representation of an exemplary embodiment 400 of a player database. The implementation 400 is referred to herein as a player database 400. As is well known in the art, the player database 400 may be stored in a device memory (e.g., memory 315 of the controller 300 and/or memory 210A of the gaming device 200A) in a table format or any other suitable database format. The data stored therein may include a plurality of exemplary records or entries, including records R700-1 through R700-4, each defining a player. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that player database 400 may include any number of entries.

[0253] The player database 400 also defines fields for each of the entries or records. The fields indicate: (i) a player identifier field 405 that identifies the player (e.g., uniquely); (ii) a name field 410 indicating the name of the player; (iii) an address field 415 indicating contact information associated with the player (e.g., a postal address, an e-mail address, a telephone number, a pager number, or other information that allows the player to be contacted); (iv) a player start date field 420 indicating the period during which the player becomes a casino member or begins to be tracked by the casino or other entity; (v) a total wager field 425 indicating that the player has wagered for a predetermined period of time or that the player has deposited in the gaming device or is available at the gaming device for a total amount of wagers for a predetermined period of time (e.g., tracked since the player's wager began, during a current visit to a casino, within a current year, etc.); (vi) a theoretical win field 425 indicating a theoretical win associated with the player over a predetermined period of time; (vii) a problem gambler status field 430 indicating the player's status with respect to the problem gambler assignment; and (viii) problem gambler scores 435 associated with the player, if any.

[0254] Of course, the player database may include different and/or additional fields for storing information, such as (i) a player's funding account identifier, which may be, for example, a credit card, debit card, or checking account number; (ii) demographic data about the player, such as the player's age, gender, income level; (iii) the player's available credit and/or bonus points that have accumulated in one or more previous and current games at one or more gaming devices; and/or (iv) a behavioral pattern indication of the pattern (e.g., frequent gamblers, weekend gamblers, maximum bet gamblers on high value (gaming) machines, gamblers playing a game until a zero available credit balance, etc.).

[0255] The device (e.g., controller 300 and/or gaming device 400) may utilize the player database 400 to determine, for example, whether the player has been previously identified as potentially needing attention as a problem gambler (e.g., based on a problem gambler status associated with the player and/or a problem gambler score associated with the player). For example, once a player inserts a player tracking card into a gaming device, the player identifier of the player tracking card may be utilized to determine whether the player is qualified as a problem gambler and/or, if so, a problem gambler score associated with the player. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the player identifier may include a picture or image of the player. Thus, a player currently playing a gaming device may be associated with a record previously created in a player database by capturing an image of the player and comparing the image to images stored in the player database. If the image matches a recorded image in the player database, the recorded data may be determined to be, at least potentially, data associated with the player currently playing the gaming device.

[0256] For example, the data stored in the problem gambler status field 430 can include an indication of whether the corresponding player has been identified as a problem gambler or potentially needs to be attended to as a problem gambler. In some embodiments, such a status may indicate a certainty (e.g., "potential", "possible", "somewhat", "confirmed", etc.) that the player has been identified as a problem gambler. In some embodiments, such a state may be indicated as a number, phrase, token, or other form. In some embodiments, this status may be entered by casino personnel. In some embodiments, such a state may be input by the device based on a determination or analysis of one or more actions by the player. In some embodiments, the player status may be changed as more information about the player is obtained (e.g., the player status may change from "yes" to "potential" to "no" or in other orders). In some embodiments, the status of the player as a problem gambler may be available or known to the player, while in other embodiments, such status may be kept secret from the player.

[0257] The data stored in the problem gambler score field 435 can be a digital representation of a score calculated based on one or more actions of the corresponding player, which can be used to determine whether the player is considered a problem gambler, likely or likely to be a problem gambler, or not a problem gambler. For example, as will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, a score may be determined for a player (e.g., for each player whose activities are tracked by the casino) that indicates the likelihood that the player is a problem gambler. Thus, as will be described in detail below, in one embodiment, certain actions or patterns of behavior may be associated with various amounts of points, and these points may be added when tracking the player's activities and patterns of behavior. The sum of these scores can be considered the problem gambler score for the player. Such a score may be compared to a plurality of ranges or thresholds. For example, if the player's problem gambler score is greater than or equal to the first number of points, the player may be considered a potential problem gambler or a boundary line problem gambler. If the player's problem gambler score is greater than or equal to a first number of points greater than the first number of points, the player may be considered to be very likely a problem gambler. If the player's problem gambler score is greater than or equal to a third point number greater than the second point number, the player may be considered a potential extreme problem player. In some embodiments, different events may be assigned based on the player's problem gambler scores. For example, if the player's score indicates that the player is an extreme problem gambler, the player may be prevented from gambling only or gambling on certain games, devices, or with certain denominations. These different levels or levels of events will be described in more detail below.

[0258] It should be noted that in some embodiments, a player's problem gambler score may be reduced in response to certain events. For example, if the player does not perform any action indicating that the player is a problem gambler for a particular period of time (e.g., a year), the problem gambler score for the player may be reduced by a predetermined amount. Similarly, if the player exhibits certain desired behaviors or performs gaming activities that indicate that the player is healthy (e.g., only a small wager during each gaming session, cash out after a win and not risk the win, etc.), the player's problem gambler score may be reduced accordingly. A more detailed description of what types of actions and/or behavior patterns may affect a player's problem gambler score is provided below with reference to fig. 10. Similarly, a more detailed description of what types of events can be dispatched based on the player's problem gambler scores is described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 10.

[0259] In some embodiments, the information stored in the player database may be used to manage or influence the player's experience at the casino. For example, if a player is associated with a problem gambler state of "yes" or "extreme," the gambling activity of those players may be monitored more carefully than players not in those states, or the player may be prevented from gambling for more than a particular number of times in a particular amount of time, prevented from betting more than a particular amount in a given period of time, prevented from betting more than a particular denomination, prevented from betting on a particular gambling activity, and so forth.

[0260] Referring now to fig. 5, illustrated therein is a tabular representation of an exemplary embodiment of the problem gambler database 330. The embodiment 500 is referred to herein as a problem gambler database 500. The problem gambler database 500 may be stored in a memory of the device (e.g., the memory 315 of the controller 300 and/or the memory 210A of the gaming device 200A) in a table format or any other suitable database format, as is well known in the art. The data stored therein may include a plurality of exemplary records or entries, each storing information about a player identified as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the problem gambler database 500 may include any number of entries.

[0261] For example, the problem gambler database 500 can be utilized to track information related to players identified as problem gamblers. For example, dispatched events related to the players may be stored. In some embodiments, the offensiveness level of a dispatch event may be increased over time as the player continues to demand attention as a problem gambler and continues to dispatch the event due to this state of the player as a problem gambler. For example, in one embodiment, when a player is first identified as a problem gambler, a casino employee may approach the player and passively engage the player in a conversation that does not directly confront the player with respect to the problem gambling, but rather intends to divert the player from its problem gambling behavior. This may be considered a relatively non-intrusive interaction with the player. However, if such passive intervention by a casino employee is not effective and the player continues to be identified as a problem gambler, a more compelling event may be dispatched, such as exporting a problem gambler questionnaire to the player. In extreme cases, the player may be prevented from gambling (e.g., the gaming device may be directed to lock, shut, or otherwise not allow the player to place a wager thereon).

[0262] Accordingly, tracking information relating to the player identified as the problem gambler, such as events assigned to the player, may be desired. For example, a determination as to which events to assign to a player may be made at least in part based on prior events that have been assigned to the player and/or the success of each such event (e.g.,.

[0263] The problem gambler database 500 may define a field for each entry or record. These fields may specify: (i) a problem gambler identifier 505 that identifies (e.g., uniquely) a problem gambler or potential problem gambler; (ii) an identification date field 510 indicating a date on which the player has been identified as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler (in some embodiments, an indication of which player actions and/or behaviors resulted in the player being identified as a problem gambler may also be stored); (iii) dispatched events field 515 that stores an indication or description of an event that has been dispatched for the player (in some embodiments, this may be an identifier corresponding to a description in another database); and (iv) a current status field 520 indicating the current status of the player as to whether the player is considered a problem gambler and/or what events or actions to take with respect to the problem gambler status of the player. For example, as indicated in the first record, the player's current status of "P-000001" indicates that the player is to be prevented from wagering at greater than or equal to X dollars. In another example, the second record of the database indicates that player "Nora Smith" will continue to receive low-level interactions (i.e., dispatching events for that player that are relatively non-offensive or offensive). As described below, in some embodiments, events may be classified into multiple levels, each level corresponding to a different level of aggressiveness or aggressiveness. In these embodiments, the current state field 520 may store an indication of the level of events to be dispatched for the player.

[0264] It should be noted that players who are not members of a slot machine player club or casino loyalty program (or choose not to identify themselves as such) may still be identified as problem gamblers and their activities tracked and events assigned to them during the various gambling stages. For example, in one embodiment, an image of the player may be captured and stored, which image is used to identify the player for later use. The second record in the database illustrates such a player. It should be noted that the player is further identified by the name "Nora Smith". However, in other embodiments, there may be no name, at least initially, no name associated with the player. For example, when a player is first identified as a problem gambler, it may not be necessary to further identify the player by name. For example, a casino employee may be assigned to approach a player without needing to know the player's name (e.g., a casino employee may be directed to a particular gaming device, and a camera or sensor in a seat associated with the gaming device may be used to confirm that the player playing the gaming device at the time the casino employee approaches is the same player whose action triggered the casino employee to be assigned). However, if the player continues to be identified as a problem gambler and/or the gambling behavior of the player becomes less appropriate (e.g., resulting in an increase in the player's problem gambler score), it may be desirable to further identify information (e.g., a name) about the player. Such information may be obtained, for example, by a casino employee assigned to interact with the player.

[0265] Of course, other information than that shown may be stored in the problem gambler database. For example, the problem gambler scores may be stored in a problem gambler database (e.g., instead of or in addition to being stored in a player database). In another embodiment, notes (note) may be stored about casino employee interactions with problem gamblers (e.g., how the player reacts). In another embodiment, an indication of the success of the event dispatched for the player may be stored. For example, an event may be considered successful if the player is prompted to rest from gambling, improve his problem gambling behavior (e.g., during the current gaming session and/or over a further extended period of time), and/or if the player expresses a positive reaction to time (e.g., the player says "thank you for you, i do not recognize that i am doing so to a casino employee).

[0266] Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, illustrated therein is a tabular representation of an exemplary embodiment 600 of dispatched events database 335. Embodiment 600 is referred to herein as a dispatched event database 600. Dispatched event database 600 may be stored in a memory of the device (e.g., memory 315 of controller 300 and/or memory 210 of gaming device 200A) in a tabular form, or any other suitable database form, as is well known in the art. The data stored herein may include a number of exemplary records or entries, including records R600-1 through R600-4, each defining events dispatched upon determining that a player may need to attend as a problem gambler or that a problem gambler is exhibiting problem gambling behavior. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that dispatched event database 600 may include any number of entries.

[0267] For example, dispatched events database 600 may be used to track events that have been dispatched (e.g., whether an event has been completed, if any, feedback regarding the event). Dispatched event database 600 may define a field for each entry or record. These fields may specify: (i) a dispatched event identifier 605 that (e.g., uniquely) identifies an event that has been dispatched; (ii) an event description 610 describing (e.g., in human or machine readable form) a corresponding event; (iii) a dispatch time 615 indicating the time at which the corresponding event was dispatched; (iv) a completion time 620 indicating a time to complete the corresponding event; (v) a player identifier 625 identifying (e.g., uniquely) the player associated with the dispatched event (note that in some environments, the identifier may be an image, while in other environments no identifier is required or preferred); and (vi) a feedback field 625 storing an indication of feedback (e.g., from casino employees, players, and/or devices associated with the event) regarding the player's response to the event.

[0268] Referring now to FIG. 7, illustrated therein is a tabular representation of an exemplary embodiment 700 of the available event type database 340. The embodiment 700 is referred to herein as an available event type database 700. As is known in the art, the available event type database 700 may be stored in a memory of the device (e.g., memory 315 of controller 300 and/or memory 210 of gaming device 200A) in a tabular format or any other suitable database format. The data stored therein may include a plurality of exemplary records or entries, including records R700-1 through R700-5, each defining a type of event available for dispatch. For example, upon determining that a player qualifies as a problem gambler, the available event type database 700 may be accessed to determine the event to dispatch for the player.

[0269] It may be helpful to contrast an exemplary use of information stored in database 700 with an exemplary use of information stored in database 600. Information stored in the available event type database 700 may be accessed and the type of event may be selected (e.g., based on output rules, as described below). An instance (instance) of a particular event or event may then be dispatched, the particular event or instance of an event being based on the selected event type. A record may be opened in dispatched event database 600 to track the dispatched event.

[0270] The available event type database 700 may define a field for each of the entries or records. The field may specify: (i) an event type identifier 705 identifying an event type that is available for dispatch; (ii) an event type description 710 (e.g., in machine and/or computer readable form) that describes a corresponding event type; (iii) an event level 715 that indicates an aggressiveness or aggressiveness level of the event type (e.g., in some embodiments, aggressiveness may be determined and the event type selected based on the determination); (iv) indicating the output rules 720 based on which the rules corresponding to the event type may be output. In some embodiments, the event level information and the problem gambler score information may be redundant in that the event level may be an indication of the corresponding problem gambler score or range of scores.

[0271] It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in database 700, the event type is output based on satisfying a rule that specifies a range of scores for the problem gambler. That is, a problem gambler score may be determined for the player and an event type may be selected based on the score. However, in other embodiments, the event type may be selected based on additional or different output rules. For example, a particular action or type of behavior with respect to a player may be associated with a particular type of event to be dispatched. In another embodiment, one or more events previously dispatched for a player may be a factor in determining what type of event to select for the current dispatch.

[0272] It should also be noted that in some embodiments, the event description field 710 may include a computer-readable file or a pointer to a computer-readable file. For example, in some embodiments, dispatching an event may include outputting a questionnaire or other information to a player via a device (e.g., a gaming device). In such embodiments, the event description field may store the questionnaire or other information.

[0273] Referring now to fig. 8, illustrated therein is a process 800 that follows one or more embodiments described herein. Process 800 (and any other processes described herein) may be performed, for example, by controller 105A, controller 105B, peripheral 130B, peripheral server 135B, one or more gaming devices 110A, one or more gaming devices 110B, another device, or a combination thereof. It should be noted that for all processes described herein, one or more of the steps of the process may be performed by a first device (e.g., controller 105A) while another of the steps may be performed by a second device (e.g., gaming device 110A). According to one or more embodiments, process 800 may be characterized as a process for determining whether a player is eligible as a problem gambler based on input provided by the player and dispatching an event if determined positively.

[0274] At step 805, input to the gaming device is determined or detected. For example, a processor of the gaming device may receive signals from sensors of the gaming device, the signals indicating input from a player. For example, the sensors may include one or more sensors for determining a player's attack or other problem behavior with the gaming device. Such one or more sensors may include, for example, a tilt sensor for determining that the gaming device has been tilted or shaken, a pressure sensor for determining that the gaming device has been struck or tapped, a camera for capturing images of the player, and/or a microphone for determining that the player has barked, cursing, or uttered a statement of interest (perceiving) to the gaming device. For example, a player's whisper (mutter) or a phrase indicating that the player is panic or has an orphan throw to win may be detected by a microphone and analyzed by a voice recognition module associated with the gaming device and in communication with a processor of the gaming device. In another embodiment, a player hitting a gaming device, seeing a failed outcome and crying, or becoming pale or sweating may be captured by a camera of the gaming device and may be analyzed by a gaming device image analysis module in communication with a processor of the gaming device.

[0275] In one embodiment, the player input may include an input of a player identifier.

[0276] In one embodiment (e.g., an online casino embodiment), the input may comprise an input to a computer terminal (e.g., speed of mouse clicks, speed of keyboard strokes, selection of icons on a website, etc.).

[0277] In one embodiment, step 805 may include detecting that a button (e.g., a mechanical button, an electromechanical button, or a "slot" button) has been actuated by the player, or that the player has attempted to actuate such a button. For example, it may be determined that a player of the gaming device has actuated a reel start button of a reel-on slot machine or a card dealing button of a video poker machine. In another embodiment, step 805 may include determining that the player has actuated a cash-out button of the gaming device. In one embodiment, step 805 may include determining that the player has activated or selected, or attempted to activate or select, a mechanism (mechanism) or input device of the gaming device, in addition to the buttons. For example, it may be determined that the player has pulled a reel activation handle or arm of the gaming device.

[0278] In some embodiments, step 805 may include determining that a player has actuated an input device of a gaming device during an inactive state of the input device. The inactive state of the input device may include a state or time during which selection of the input device does not trigger or cause an action, event, subroutine, or response that would otherwise be triggered by the triggering or selection of the input device. For example, when a reel of a slot machine with reels is spinning, a reel activation mechanism of the gaming device may not be used or operated to activate the spinning of the reels, and thus the reel rotation mechanism may be considered to be in an inactive state while the reels are spinning. In another embodiment, the new hand deal button of the video poker device may be inoperable (inoperative) to cause a new hand to be dealt while a previously dealt hand is being dealt (resolve) (i.e., before the last hand is displayed for the previously dealt hand of initial cards), and thus may be considered inactive until the previously dealt hand is resolved. It should be noted that even if actuation or selection of an input device in the inactive state results in some response or action from the gaming device (e.g., outputting a message, such as "action currently unauthorized"), the input device may be considered to be in the inactive state as long as the response or action is not a primary (primary) action normally associated with use of the gaming device.

[0279] In some embodiments, step 805 may include determining that the player has selected or attempted to select a gaming device option or feature that is not currently available to the player (e.g., due to an insufficient available credit metering balance). For example, it may be determined that when a player does not have sufficient available credit to support a wager in the available credit metering balance, the player has attempted to select an "all pay lines, max wager" option.

[0280] In some embodiments, step 805 may include determining that the player has attempted to actuate the input device in the gaming device inactive state, permanently or repeatedly (e.g., more than a predetermined number of times during a predetermined time unit), attempting to select features that are not available to the player, or performing other actions that are being monitored or otherwise determined. For example, step 805 may include determining that a player (e.g., for all game plays, a majority of game plays, or a percentage of game plays) is attempting to spin a reel of a reel-on slot machine before the reel has stopped spinning from a previously initiated game play (e.g., the player almost constantly slapping a reel spin button). The applicant has appreciated that a player taking this type of persistent activity may be a problem gambler (e.g., the player is eager to gamble so hard that he or she does not even patiently wait for and see the outcome of a game play before wanting to begin another game play).

[0281] In one embodiment, step 805 may include determining a force or relative force for actuating or selecting an input device or providing input to an input device. For example, it may be determined that the force of the player when using the input device is at least a predetermined magnitude (magnitude). In a more specific embodiment, it may be determined that the player has struck the reel rotation button with a focused strength. In such embodiments, the input device may have associated therewith a sensor to determine the relative amount of force with which to manipulate, select, actuate, or otherwise use the input device. In one embodiment, a change in the player's strength to actuate, select, or otherwise operate the gaming device may be determined (e.g., when compared to the previous strength used by the player). The increase in strength may be an indication that the player is highly emotional with respect to playing the gaming device and may be a sign of a problem gambler.

[0282] At step 810, a determination is made as to whether the entry determined or detected at step 805 indicates that the player associated with the entry is eligible as a problem gambler, or potentially eligible as a problem gambler. This step may include, for example, analyzing data associated with the player. For example, the input determined at step 805 may be analyzed separately or in a manner that combines other data associated with the player. In one embodiment, the other data may be data obtained during the current gaming stage. For example, if it is determined at step 805 that a player has attempted to activate a reel of a slot machine with reels before the reel has stopped spinning from a previously initiated game play, step 810 may include determining whether the player has attempted to do so before during the current gaming phase, and in some embodiments, the frequency with which the player has attempted to do so during the current gaming phase. For example, the gaming device may be programmed to: if a player attempts to spin a reel more than once in every five (5) game plays before the reel has stopped spinning, the player is eligible to play a problem. Many other such logic rules may be programmed into the gaming device or other device for determining whether a player is eligible as a problem gambler based on the player's input provided to the gaming device. Some examples, not in any limiting way, are given below:

(i) the player attempts to select a wager amount that is not eligible for the player due to insufficient funds for more than X game plays, more than X consecutive game plays, or more than X game plays in Z time units;

(ii) the player attempts to select multiple paylines that are not eligible to the player due to insufficient funds for more than X game plays, more than X consecutive game plays, or more than X game plays in Z time units;

(iii) the hand dealt before the resolution player attempts to deal an initial hand for more than X game plays, more than X consecutive game plays, or more than X game plays in Z time units;

(iv) a player attempting to direct a gaming device to conduct an action that the player should be aware of is not currently available to the player or selecting a feature that the player should be aware of is not currently available to the player for more than X game plays, more than X consecutive game plays, or more than X game plays in Z time units.

[0283] In some embodiments, step 810 (determining whether the player is eligible as a problem gambler based on input provided by the player to the gaming device) can include retrieving data associated with the player from a memory (e.g., a memory of the gaming device, controller 105A or controller 105B, or a memory of another device). For example, the player's actions in a previous gaming stage may be retrieved. In another embodiment, the status of the player as a problem gambler may be retrieved from a player database. In yet another embodiment, the player's problem gambler scores may be retrieved (described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 10). In one embodiment, it may be simply determined (e.g., based on the player identifier provided by the player at step 705) whether the player is associated with a problem gambler status and/or a problem gambler score that indicates whether an event should be dispatched for the player.

[284] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the player identifier of the player providing the input in step 805 may be known or determinable. For example, a player may have inserted a player tracking card into a player tracking device of a gaming device, the player tracking card having a unique player identifier stored thereon. In such an environment, additional data associated with the player may be retrieved based on the player identifier. In other embodiments, the player may not have provided a player identifier. However, in the latter such embodiment, it is also possible to associate the player with data previously obtained and stored for the player. For example, as described above, in some embodiments, an image of a player may be captured and data regarding the player's actions and/or behaviors may be associated with the image. Thus, the image may serve as a player identifier. Thus, if input from the player is determined at step 805, an image of the player may be captured and compared to previously captured and stored images of the player (e.g., by software known in the art for comparing images to find a matching image). If there is a match between the currently captured image and the previously captured image, it may be determined that any data associated with the previously captured image applies to the current player.

[0285] In some embodiments, steps 805 and 810 may be combined. For example, a device (e.g., gaming device 110A or peripheral 130B) may be programmed to detect certain inputs that are considered indicative of a problem gambler (e.g., attempting to restart the reels before the reels stop spinning). If such input is detected, the detection of such input can determine that the player is eligible as a problem gambler or a potential problem gambler.

[0286] In some embodiments, the input determined at step 805 may be inconclusive. In other words, the input may not provide enough information to determine whether the player is eligible as a problem gambler. In such an event, the indication of the input may be stored for further analysis once the player provides further input or obtains additional data about the player. In some embodiments, players may be categorized or associated with potential problem gambler status or the like. In some embodiments, a casino employee may be dispatched to observe a player to determine whether the player is qualified as a problem player in a conclusive manner based on the input. For example, if the input determined at step 805 is that the player has repeatedly hit or knocked the gaming device, this alone may be sufficient to conclude that the player is eligible as a problem gambler. Accordingly, casino employees may be dispatched to observe the players. For example, a casino employee may observe that the player is only a ruddy, slightly drunk young person, that he is gambling with a friend, and tap a gaming device to interrupt (punture) his conversation with his friend. In some embodiments, where a casino employee is dispatched to obtain additional information to determine whether a player is a problem gambler, the casino employee may provide an indication of such further information to a device that determines whether the player is a problem gambler. For example, a casino employee may input an indication to a casino employee device that the casino employee device may transmit to another device (e.g., a gaming device or controller) over a network. In some embodiments, a camera (e.g., a security camera) may be directed to focus on a player (e.g., in addition to or instead of a dispatch casino employee observing the player) to determine whether the player is a problem gambler. In some embodiments, a camera operator (e.g., a security employee in a casino viewing a security camera image) may be prompted to focus a security camera on a player and observe the player. The camera operator may then provide an indication of whether the player is eligible as a problem gambler.

[0287] In some embodiments, if additional information needs to be obtained before the determination is made at step 810, an action may be taken or caused to be taken within a predetermined time period that input has been received at step 805 in order to obtain the information in a timely manner. For example, a camera may be focused or a casino employee assigned within one minute of the input received at step 805.

[0288] In some embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where a casino employee is dispatched to observe the player or direct the camera to focus on the player), it may be desirable to determine that the player playing the target gaming device was the same player that provided the input at step 805 (i.e., to minimize the likelihood of incorrectly identifying the player as a problem gambler) when the casino employee observed the player and/or when the camera was focused on the player. Thus, for example, it may be determined that a player tracking card that was inserted into a target gaming device when the input was determined has not been removed from the gaming device from the time of the input until a casino employee observed the player or a camera focused on the player. In another embodiment, security camera footage may be referenced to verify that another player has not replaced the player that provided the input at step 805. In yet another embodiment, a weight or pressure sensor in a seat associated with the target gaming device may be used to verify that the player that provided the input determined in step 805 has never left the seat or has not been replaced by another player.

[0289] As described above, it should be noted that different steps of process 800 or any of the processes described herein may be performed by different devices. For example, step 805 may be performed by gaming device 110A, gaming device 110B, or peripheral 130B, which may transmit an indication to another device (e.g., controller 100A, controller 100B, or peripheral server 135B). The other device may then proceed to step 810.

[0290] If it is determined at step 810 that the player is eligible as a problem gambler, then at step 815 a suitable event is caused to be dispatched. Otherwise, process 800 returns to step 805 and waits for another input to the gaming device.

[0291] In one embodiment, step 815 may include transmitting an indication to another device (e.g., the gaming device may transmit an indication to a server device) that the player's competency has been determined as a problem gambler based on the input received at step 805. The other device may then determine an event to dispatch and dispatch the event. In other embodiments, step 815 may include directly determining an event to dispatch and dispatching the event.

[0292] In some embodiments, there may be different levels of events (e.g., aggressiveness or aggressiveness levels) that may be dispatched. Thus, determining an event to dispatch may first include determining an event level.

[0293] For example, some events may be considered minimally (minimally) aggressive to the player, or minimally aggressive to restrict the player's improper gambling behavior. Examples of such minimally invasive or minimally invasive events include, but are not limited to: (i) dispatching casino employees to offer coupons to gamblers; (ii) dispatching casino employees to engage the player in a conversation unrelated to the player's problem gambler status; (iii) outputting to the player an offer for an event, buffet, promotion, etc. that is intended to distract the player from his gambling and/or entice the player to leave the gaming device for another activity; and (iii) direct the gaming device to enter extended bonus rounding. Such minimally invasive or minimally invasive events are referred to herein as class I events. Examples of more aggressive or more aggressive events that may be dispatched include, but are not limited to: (i) dispatching an employee close to the player and having the player engage in a conversation relating to the player's gambling activities (e.g., to verify or further determine whether the player is a problem gambler); (ii) outputting to the player a questionnaire, the questionnaire being targeted to assist the player in identifying himself as a problem gambler; (iii) exporting or having casino employees provide information to the player as to where to seek assistance with the problem gambling activity; and/or (iv) interrupt the operation of the game playing device in such a way as to appear to be a technical problem of the game playing device. Such more aggressive or more aggressive event embodiments are referred to herein as class II events. Examples of even more aggressive or even more aggressive events that may be dispatched include, but are not limited to: (i) dispatching an employee to direct the player to stop playing the gaming device; (ii) interrupting operation of the game-playing device in a manner that indicates to the player that game-playing operation has been interrupted due to improper gambling behavior by the player (e.g., upon interrupting game-playing operation, a message may be output to the player informing the player why his game-playing operation has been interrupted); (iii) disqualifying a player for future wagers on certain games (e.g., with high volatility) or certain gaming devices; and/or (iv) impose limitations on the player's wagering ability (e.g., wagers that exceed a certain magnitude will not be accepted from the player and/or the player will not be allowed to wager more than X dollars per day or per other unit of time). An embodiment of such an even more aggressive or even more aggressive event is referred to herein as a level III event.

[0294] Thus, in some embodiments, different levels of events may correspond to different levels or states of problem gamblers or different problem gambler scores. For example, in one embodiment, a state having a potential problem gambler state or a low level problem gambler state may correspond to a level I event. A potential problem gambler state or a low level problem gambler state may correspond, for example, to a player who has exhibited some inappropriate gambling behaviour but may not necessarily have a serious gambling problem. In another embodiment, the problem gambler status, the possible (likely) problem gambler status, or the medium level problem gambler status may correspond to a level II event. The problem gambler state, the possible problem gambler state or the intermediate level of problem gambler states may correspond, for example, to a player who has exhibited more than some or occasional inappropriate gambling behaviour, habits or actions but who has not shown a serious gambling problem. The extreme problem gambler state or the high level problem gambler state may correspond to a level III event. An extreme (extreme) problem gambler state or a high-level problem gambler state may for example correspond to having presented a majority of inappropriate gambling behaviour, or presenting such inappropriate gambling behaviour, which is considered extreme and may even be dangerous to the player's lifestyle.

[0295] In one embodiment, step 810 (or an additional or different step of process 800) may also include determining a rank of a problem gambler or a problem gambler status for the player (based on the input received at step 805, and possibly additional data associated with the player).

[0296] In some embodiments, step 815 (or another step or a different step of process 800) may also include determining a level of events to dispatch. As described above, in some embodiments, the ranking of events may be determined based on the problem gambler status and ranking events that the player is deemed to be. For example, if the player is a low-level problem gambler or is only a potential problem gambler, only level I events are dispatched at step 815.

[0297] In some embodiments, step 815 (or another step of process 800) may include determining a particular event to dispatch. In other embodiments, if step 815 includes transmitting an indication to another device that causes the other device to dispatch an event, the particular event to be dispatched may be determined by the other device.

[0298] Determining an event for dispatch may include, for example, determining one or more of: (i) resources available for dispatching events (e.g., whether a casino employee is available; (ii) events previously dispatched for the player (e.g., based on data associated with the player, such as in a problem gambler database); and (iii) (either for the current player or for the player in general) the success of the previously dispatched event. For example, for factor (iii), if it is found that outputting an offer for a free buffet is unsuccessful in restricting improper gambling behavior by a player, such an event may not be dispatched or only under limited circumstances.

[0299] In some embodiments, determining an event to dispatch may include accessing an available event type database 340 to determine what type of event to dispatch based on the output rules. For example, if the available event type database 700 is used and the outcome rules are based on problem gambler scores, a problem gambler score may first be determined for an in question player and an event type selected based on the problem gambler score.

[0300] Once the event type is determined, a particular event instance may be dispatched and a record created in dispatched events database 335 to track the event.

[0301] Dispatching an event may include, for example, outputting a message to a player of a gaming device (via a display device of the gaming device and/or a peripheral display device that the player is playing), outputting an instruction to a casino employee to access the player in question (e.g., the instruction may include a position of the player, an image of the player, a description of how to access the player and what to say to the player, etc.), and/or instructing the gaming device being played by the player to perform an action (e.g., interrupt a game play, not accept a wager, etc.). For example, instructions may be output to casino employees via casino employee devices.

[0302] In some embodiments, feedback regarding dispatched events may be received. Such feedback may be received as part of process 800. In other embodiments, waiting, receiving, and storing such feedback may be another subroutine. For example, once an event is dispatched, a player's response to the event may be determined and stored. For example, a casino employee assigned to approach a player may be prompted to enter a description or other indication of the player's behavior or the player's response to the casino employee. A casino employee may enter such a response, for example, through a casino employee device. In another embodiment, where a questionnaire is output to a player, an indication of whether the player has answered the questionnaire and/or the player's answers may be stored. In yet another embodiment, if a player approaches a casino employee to complain or otherwise comment on an event, an indication of the player's response may be entered by the accessed casino employee.

[0303] Referring now to fig. 9, illustrated therein is a process 900 according to one or more embodiments described herein. Process 900 is similar to process 800. Some differences between these two processes are: (i) in process 900, player behavior patterns are tracked with respect to player input; (ii) the particular event dispatched in process 900 is dispatching a casino employee to access the player; and (iii) receiving a confirmation from the casino employee after the employee is dispatched. These differences are described in more detail below.

[0304] At step 900, a player behavior pattern is determined. The behavioral patterns may include, for example, (i) bet patterns; (ii) a current mode is changed; (iii) a strategy mode (e.g., a video poker strategy mode); and/or (iii) a mode of obtaining funds. Applicants have recognized that some behavioral patterns may indicate that a player is a problem gambler.

[0305] For example, the betting patterns that may be of interest are one or more of the following:

(i) the player wins the jackpot (jackpot) and immediately proceeds as quickly as possible to continue playing to place a wager on the win value, without pausing at all the large win value or considering whether a cash-out is to be made (i.e., without pausing between the large win and the launch of the next game play);

(ii) on a high max-bet gaming device, the player places 40 quarters of a coin (sufficient for one game hand) and places it on one game hand, and then repeats the action for the next game hand; and

(iii) players permanently place bets in too high a proportion of coins deposited: for example, a player places $ 20, places $ 6 on a first game play, and places $ 6 on a second game play; the third game play is wagered for $ 6 and the last game play is wagered for $ 2, followed by another $ 20 and the wagering pattern is repeated.

[0306] In another embodiment, the recurring patterns that may be of interest are one or more of:

(i) the player places $ 20, loses all of that $ 20, places another $ 20, loses all of that $ 20, moves to another gaming device and repeats the pattern; and/or

(ii) Between the additional $ 20 of the put-in per mode cycle, the player additionally moves from one gaming device to another.

[0307] In another embodiment, a possible policy mode of interest is whether a player is continuously applying an "all-round-one-throw" policy in a video game (e.g., an all-round-one-throw policy for use only in the Royal Flush, regardless of what cards are dealt). For example, a player may throw a high expectation hand (e.g., three identical cards) on a consistent basis in an attempt to achieve a royal flush.

[0308] In another embodiment, a policy that may be concerned with obtaining funds is whether the player obtains a high available credit line (e.g., $ 500) from the casino and loses it immediately within five minutes.

[0309] Many other patterns of behavior may be identified and monitored among players. For example, as described above, continuously attempting to activate the reel activation mechanism before the reel stops spinning from a previously initiated game play may be one mode of behavior that is monitored as a sign of a problem gambler.

[0310] Referring now to step 910, a determination is made as to whether the behavior pattern determined in step 905 indicates a problem gambler. Such a determination may be made in a similar manner as described with respect to step 805. For example, a score may be determined for the behavioral pattern. In another embodiment, it may be a binary (binary) determination. If the behavioral pattern is a pattern of interest (e.g., a pattern that the device is programmed to detect), then merely detecting that the player is presenting the behavioral pattern may result in a determination that the player is a problem gambler. If it is determined that the pattern does not indicate a problem gambler, the process 900 returns to step 905. Otherwise, process 900 continues to step 910.

[0311] At step 910, a casino employee is dispatched to confirm that the player is a problem gambler. For example, as described with respect to fig. 8, it may be necessary to confirm that the player is a problem gambler by having a casino employee view the player. Thus, a casino employee may be instructed (e.g., via a casino employee device) to stand near a player for a period of time and observe the player. For example, sometimes casino employees may be trained or learned of a player's temperament and/or facial expressions (or blankness) may be an indication of whether the player is a problem gambler. In another embodiment, a camera may be used to view the player to determine the player's habit and/or facial expression (or blankness) to determine or confirm that the player is a problem gambler. In these embodiments, step 915 may include directing the camera to focus on the in-doubt player and/or instructing a casino employee to focus the camera on the in-doubt player.

[0312] At step 920, it is determined whether the acknowledgement was received. For example, it may be determined whether the casino employee assigned at step 915 has provided (e.g., entered into a casino employee device operable to communicate over a network through a server device) a confirmation that the player appears to be a problem gambler. If such an acknowledgement is received, process 900 continues to step 925. If an acknowledgement is not received, the casino employee may be prompted to obtain the acknowledgement. If the casino employee indicates that the player does not appear to be a problem gambler, the process 900 returns to step 905.

[0313] At step 925, the event is dispatched once the acknowledgement is received. Dispatching events at step 900 may be similar to dispatching events described with respect to process 800 and therefore need not be repeated in detail. For example, a casino employee (e.g., the same casino employee in step 915) may be instructed to approach the player and engage the player in conversation. In another embodiment, a message may be output to the player.

[0314] It should be noted that any of the additional processes, steps or subroutines described with respect to fig. 8 (e.g., determining the status of a problem gambler, determining the problem gambler score, determining the type of event and/or level of event to be dispatched) are equally applicable to process 900, where appropriate.

[0315] Referring now to fig. 10, illustrated therein is a process 1000 in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Process 1000 can be characterized as a process that utilizes problem gambler scores to determine whether a player is a problem gambler.

[0316] At step 1005, a player action is determined. The actions of the player may include, for example, inputs provided by the player to the gaming device and/or behavioral patterns presented by the player.

[0317] At step 1010, the player actions are scored to obtain problem gambler scores. For example, in some embodiments, multiple points (points) may correspond to each respective player action, which may be indicative of a problem gambler. More points may correspond to, for example, actions that more clearly indicate the problem gambler.

[0318] At step 1015, it is determined whether the previous problem gambler score was associated with the player. For example, a player identifier may be determined for the player whose action was determined at step 1005, and this player identifier may be used to access an appropriate record in a player database or problem gambler database, if any, which is used to store such problem gambler scores.

[0319] If there are no previous problem gambler scores associated with the player (e.g., the player has not previously performed any action that would indicate that the player is a problem gambler), the score determined at step 1010 may be set to the final problem gambler score for the player (step 1025). On the other hand, if there is a previous score associated with the player, the score determined at step 1010 is added to the previous score to determine the final problem gambler score for the player (step 1020).

[0320] At step 1030, the final problem gambler score is compared to a problem gambler score range or threshold. For example, a table such as that provided below as an example may be used at step 1030:

problem gambler scoring	Problem gambler status
		0-100	Not problem gamblers
101-150	Potential problem gamblers; low level problem gambler
		151-200	A problem gambler; moderate problem gambler
<200	Serious problem gambler

[0321] Thus, step 1030 may include comparing the final problem gambler score determined in step 1020 or step 1025 to the ranges stored in such tables. Of course, in a simplified embodiment, there may not be different levels of problem gamblers, and a table may not be necessary or desirable. For example, the device may be programmed to determine that the player is a problem gambler if the final problem gambler score is greater than X. Otherwise, the player may be considered not to be a problem gambler.

[0322] At step 1035, it is determined whether the player is a problem gambler. For example, the problem gambler status in the table above corresponding to the final score may be determined. If the player is not a problem gambler, the final problem gambler scores are simply stored for later use (step 1045). Otherwise, the event is dispatched (step 1040) and the final problem gambler scores are stored. Dispatching events may include any of the methods described herein, particularly those described with respect to fig. 8 and 9.

[0323] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, it is to be understood that the scope of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments explicitly described herein. Numerous other variations and embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present description.

Claims (27)

1. A gaming device for facilitating a wagering game, comprising:

a display device for displaying game information to a player;

an input device usable by the player to provide input to the gaming device;

a processor operable to facilitate a wagering game; and

a memory storing a program for directing the processor,

wherein the processor and the program are together operable to:

detecting an input provided by the player through the input device;

determining that the input is an indication that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler; and transmitting a signal to a server device, the signal indicating the input from the player.

2. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the processor and the program being operable together to detect input provided by the player through the input device comprises the processor and the program being operable together to determine that the player has actuated or attempted to actuate the input device during an inactive state of the input device.

3. The gaming device of claim 2, wherein the gaming device comprises a slot machine and the input device comprises a reel activation mechanism, and further wherein

Wherein the processor and the program together are operable to determine that the player has actuated or attempted to actuate the input device during an inactive state of the input device comprises

The processor and the program are operable together to determine that a player has actuated or attempted to actuate the reel activation mechanism while a reel is still in rotation for a current game play.

4. The gaming device of claim 3, wherein the processor and the program being operable together to determine that the player has actuated or attempted to actuate the gaming device during an inactive state of the gaming device comprises the processor and the program being operable together to:

determining that the player has repeatedly actuated or attempted to actuate the input device during inactivity of the gaming device.

5. The gaming device of claim 2, wherein the gaming device comprises a slot machine and the input device comprises a payline selection mechanism, and further,

wherein the processor and the program together are operable to determine that the player has actuated or attempted to actuate the input device during an inactive state of the input device comprises

The processor and the program are operable together to said determine that a player has selected or attempted to select a pay line that the player is not eligible due to an insufficient balance of available credit.

6. The gaming device of claim 5, wherein the processor and the program being operable together to determine that a player has selected or attempted to select a pay line that the player is not eligible due to an insufficient available credit balance comprises the processor and the program being operable together to:

determining that the player has repeatedly selected or attempted to select a pay line that the player has failed due to insufficient available credit balance.

7. The gaming device of claim 2, wherein the gaming device comprises a slot machine, and the input device comprises a wager amount selection mechanism, and further,

wherein the processor and the program together are operable to determine that the player has actuated or attempted to actuate the input device during an inactive state of the input device comprises

The processor and the program are together operable to said determine that a player has selected or attempted to select an amount wagered that the player is not eligible due to an insufficient balance of available credit.

8. The gaming device of claim 7, wherein the processor and the program being operable together to determine that a player has selected or attempted to select a wager amount that the player is not eligible due to an insufficient available credit balance comprises the processor and the program being operable together to:

determining that the player has repeatedly selected or attempted to select an amount wagered that the player is not eligible due to an insufficient balance of available credit.

9. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein based on a determination that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler, the program and the processor are further operable together to at least one of:

interrupting the player's play of the gaming device; and

outputting a message to the player, the message targeting a gambling behavior that is constraining to the player.

10. A gaming system, comprising:

a gaming device comprising a display device for displaying gaming information to a player and an input device operable to receive input from the player to the gaming device; and

a server device communicating with the game device, wherein

The game device is operable to

Detecting that the player has provided input to the gaming device using the input device; and

transmitting an indication of the input to the server device; and is

Further wherein the server device is operable to:

determining, based on the input, that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler; and

dispatching an event in response to the determination.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the server device operable to dispatch an event comprises the server device operable to transmit an instruction to a casino employee to come into proximity with the player.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the server device being operable to dispatch an event comprises the server device being operable to create a record in a database indicating that the player may need to be attended as a problem gambler.

13. The system of claim 10, wherein the server device operable to dispatch an event comprises the server device operable to determine a score corresponding to the indication.

14. The system of claim 10, wherein the server device operable to dispatch an event comprises the server device operable to direct a video camera to focus on the player.

15. The system of claim 10, wherein the server device being operable to dispatch an event comprises the server device being operable to output a message to the player, the message targeting a gambling behavior that constrains the player.

16. The system of claim 10, wherein the server device being operable to dispatch an event comprises the server device being operable to interrupt the player's play of the gaming device.

17. The system of claim 10, wherein the input comprises an input device attempting to actuate the gaming device during inactivity of the input device.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the input comprises repeatedly attempting to actuate an input device of the gaming device during inactivity of the input device.

19. A server operable to facilitate a wagering facility, comprising:

a processor; and

a memory storing a program for booting the processor,

wherein the processor and the program are together operable to:

receiving an indication from a gaming device, the indication representing an input provided by a player to the gaming device;

determining, based on the indication, that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler; and

dispatching an event in response to the determination.

20. The server of claim 19, wherein dispatching the event comprises at least one of:

transmitting instructions to a casino employee to access the player;

creating a record in a database, the record storing an indication that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler;

scoring the indication;

directing a video camera to focus on the player;

outputting a message to the player, the message targeting a gambling behavior that constrains the player; and

interrupting the player's play of the gaming device.

21. The server of claim 19, wherein receiving an indication from the gaming device comprises receiving a signal indicating that the player has attempted to actuate an input device of the gaming device during an inactive state of the input device.

22. The server of claim 21, wherein receiving an indication from the gaming device comprises receiving an input device indicating that the player has repeatedly attempted to actuate the gaming device during an inactive state of the input device.

23. An apparatus operable to facilitate a wagering activity in a wagering establishment, the apparatus comprising:

a communication port;

a processor; and

a memory storing a program for booting the processor,

wherein the processor and the program are together operable to:

determining a pattern of action taken by a player of the gaming device;

analyzing the behavior pattern;

determining, based on the step of analyzing, that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler; and

based on a determination that the player may need to be attended to as a problem gambler, an event is caused to be dispatched.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the processor and the program being operable together to cause an event to be dispatched comprises the processor and the program being operable together to cause at least one of:

instructions are assigned to a casino employee, the instructions instructing the casino employee to approach the player;

a record in a database is created that stores an indication that the player is likely to be a problem gambler;

the indication is scored;

a video camera directed to focus on the player;

a message is output to the player, the message targeting the gambling behavior that constrains the player; and

the player's play of the gaming device is interrupted.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the behavior pattern comprises at least one of:

a betting mode;

a coin-in mode;

a current mode is changed; and

the time of the bet mode.

26. The device of claim 24, wherein the device comprises the gaming device.

27. The device of claim 24, wherein the device comprises a server device operable to communicate with the gaming device through the communication port.