Patent · US Expired

Method for playing a matching game

US7631872B2 · kind B2 · utility

13Cited by
6References
30Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateSep 15, 2003
Grant dateDec 15, 2009
Priority date
Expiry dateOct 5, 2025

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC G)Physics
  • CPC primaryG07F17/3262
  • WIPO fieldControl
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

A preferred method includes displaying a plurality of indicia-bearing game pieces 12 on a gaming grid 14. A player then selects game pieces 12 that are adjacent and that have matching indicia 16. Preferably, the matching adjacent game pieces 34 that are selected are then removed from the gaming grid 14. One or more prizes are awarded in association with the selection and removal of the matching adjacent game pieces 34. Preferably, the player is also provided with the ability to shuffle any remaining non-selected game pieces 32, after all matching adjacent game pieces that are perceived by the player are selected and removed. In this regard, it is possible that the player may overlook some matching adjacent game pieces 34. Additionally, some preferred embodiment gaming methods incorporate the use of multiple indicia 16 on each game piece 12 for potentially matching with adjacent game pieces. Finally, awards can be awarded to a player based upon game speed and the number of shuffles required to clear the grid 14, amongst other criteria. Preferably, the method also includes activation of an interactive help feature 100 for the bonus game. The help feature 100 is continuously accessibl…

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.