KR20070056041A - Multiplayer Real Time Online Sports Match System - Google Patents

Abstract

A system that provides online sporting events in real time. The server computer executes game play software connected to the plurality of player client computers via a network. Hardware accessories at the player location enable entry of real-time play data, such as driving conditions in a race game, which data is used by game play software running on the server. The gameplay software determines the relative performance of the players playing the game at predetermined intervals based on the skill of the game, which forms the basis for determining the winner and the participant of the next game. Sexual information is sent to client computers of players who participated in the game. After each match, the overall ranking of each player is calculated to categorize players with similar skill levels and use them as a participant in subsequent matches.

Live online matches, online sports matches, memberships, rankings, monetary awards.

Description

 MULTIPLE PLAYER REAL-TIME ON-LINE SPORTS COMPETITION SYSTEM}

The present invention generally relates to Internet sales methods and online game systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a real-time, online sporting event with multiple remote players and monetary awards, wherein the player's stamina, agility and skill determine performance in the game.

Internet sales methods can take advantage of the financial rewards of multi-level marketing to facilitate verbal marketing. Multilevel marketing is a sales promotion method that pays commissions not only to the seller in charge of the sale but also to the seller in charge of transferring the product knowledge to the seller in charge of the sale. US Pat. No. 6,691,093 (Shell) is an example of a background technology that uses multi-level marketing on a server system that sells products that are electronically transportable through a communications network. However, Shell does not disclose business methods or systems for qualifying for authorized game competitions. Moreover, Shell does not disclose the application of multi-level marketing techniques for raising prizes from licensing, training, selling and distributing hardware and / or software in online game systems.

Conventional online computer game systems generally provide the ability for a player to play with a host computer via a direct connection or a computer network. It is also possible to use a multiplayer scheme using a configuration comprising a host computer and remote players on a computer network.

Examples of prior art that include the foregoing capabilities include US patent application US 20002/0055379 (Saidakovsky et al.) And US patent 6,174,237 (Stephenson). Saidakovsky et al. Disclose a method of providing a tournament system on a network that wins prizes based on a player's skill in an electronic game played against a host computer. The effect of chance was minimized in the applications disclosed by Sidakovsky et al. Stephenson discloses a method of playing a technical tournament with a qualifying round and a playoff round in which one or more players play with the host computer. In both applications, rewards are given to players who have achieved a high level of performance on the host computer. Neither of the above, however, initiates an online game of head-to-head play between players.

In addition, conventional online contests are often based on a single game match session. For example, in a travia game, players answer a series of questions and score points based on the exact number of responses at the end of the game. The match is generally only between the player and the host computer, although multiple players may play the host computer at the same time. In this prior art approach, the player with the highest score at the end of a single game match is the winner.

An example of another prior art in this field is US patent application publication no. US2002 / 0018982 (Conroy). Conroy discloses a system for computer dynamometer testing to run car racing simulations. Conroy's application is also another example of a match between a player and a host computer, in the form of a car racing simulation, in contrast to a one-to-one match. Conroy, even though it is a very fun and realistic game environment through the use of real vehicles and dynamometers, is expensive enough for the average online player.

Moreover, other conventional online game systems generally emphasize that as many players as possible can access the game with the host computer. However, these conventional methods of inducing online matches often dilute the skill level of the players involved and reduce the attraction force for players and observers to participate in such matches.

For example, US Pat. No. 5,779,549 (Walker et al) discloses a method for a distributed tournament system that provides a public invitation to players who have achieved a predetermined grade level in a game between player and host computer. The approach using preset thresholds, as disclosed in the Walker et al. Patent, is similar to the handicapping of golf. Handicaping helps to level players of different skill levels in a single match.

However, Walker et al. Do not initiate one-to-one competitions that set limits on the skill level of players as determined in multiple competitions and training sessions involving real players. In addition, Walker et al. Disclose a system that provides future players with an "on demand" online game. This is in contrast to an "invitation only" system that only includes players with proven skill levels.

As another application of the prior art, US patent application no. 2002/0115488 (Berry et al) discloses a ranking based on an online game system. While the system disclosed by Berry et al may be based on a plurality of competition events, such as, for example, a sports season, Berry et al. Disclose an "on demand" approach in which the player approaches the game. As mentioned above, this is in contrast to a more selective "invitation restriction" system, which requires a player to demonstrate skill level before accessing an online game.

Still, another example of a conventional online sports event by Walker (US Pat. No. 6,224,486) discloses yet other aspects of a highly developed state-of-the-art online tournament competition systems.

However, none of the aforementioned Walker or Berry et al. Provide remote players with real time play and response. This real-time or at least near-real-time response from the online game system regarding the player's status and current ranking during the online game provides participants and observers with a more realistic physical environment and realistic excitement of the actual sporting event.

Moreover, compared with the prior art of the above-mentioned online games, professional sports in the real world show the desirable moisturizing of multiple game sessions and multiple game levels. Professional basketball, for example, consists of a regular season followed by a post season. Regular seasons are used to develop the skills needed to improve postseason (ie team cohesion, acquisition history). Some teams are entitled to post-season play based on regular season records that are a measure of team skill level. At this time, teams with good record / high skill levels often play against each other in a "best of something" format to advance to higher levels of competition (e.g., Earth Champions, Federation Champions, World / National Champions). Done.

As with other examples in professional car racing, drivers are trained and qualified to compete in each race level (e.g., local, regional, national races). Top racers at each race level compete with others to develop a record of achievement, and as a result, more successful racers are invited to race at higher levels. As the level of the economy rises, the amount of rewards the drivers fight for increases.

As mentioned above, advancing to the next play round or game of the next level depends on the performance of the team or individual performed at the previous round or game level. The rising skill level required to move forward in this competitive environment adds significant excitement to the game for the observers as well as the players of the competition. In addition to the excitement of the competition, the possibility of greater rewards is also attractive in this competitive environment when larger prizes are offered at higher levels of competition.

Despite the advantages mentioned above, professional sports in the real world generally suffers from some disadvantages arising from the cost, time and sometimes personal risk of investing in physically participating or observing both participants and observers. Include. In addition, participants usually have to be on schedule during the race, which is probably very difficult in a busy modern society. In order to ensure compliance with the tournament rules, most competitions require supervisors, arbitrators, referees and insurance. Significant costs can be added to the race to maintain coverage with these personnel. However, the performance of online sporting events, including the benefits of professional sports in the real world, offers an attractive solution.

As mentioned above, in the technical field of online competition, (1) different skill levels; And (2) methods, devices and systems that focus on direct competition between players based on the development and improvement of their skill levels by encouraging players to play at higher levels for larger prizes and awards. There is a need. Therefore, what is needed in the technical field of online sporting events is a system, apparatus and method for performing online games that provide tension, excitement and rewards of real sporting events to both participants and observers.

The present invention relates to a method, system and apparatus for operating an online game system and performing online sporting events. In particular, the present invention relates to (1) varying skill levels; And (2) methods, devices, and systems that focus on direct competition between players based on the development and improvement of their skill levels by encouraging players to play at a higher level for larger prizes and awards. .

In emphasizing the development and increase of skill levels of players, the present invention increases the requirements and criteria for participating in online sporting events to the professional level. Such emphasis on high levels of skill and professionalism further emphasizes the registration and association of online game players. Furthermore, development to higher skill levels can be made on a "invitation limit" basis as a result of the increased professionalism in online sporting events. Such development means a more limited set of participants in online matches. In addition, the increased professionalism in online matches will attract fans and observers willing to pay to see players with such a high level of skill.

The present invention increases the tension of the possibility of dropouts and the excitement of increased monetary rewards in online competitions, both to the participant and to the observer, to levels seen in the real world sporting sports environment. Players with similar skill levels can play one-on-one in the same level of competition, which will increase the excitement of the event for both participants and observers.

A method of operating an online game system according to an aspect of the present invention includes: registering with an online game system as at least one of a participant membership, a recruiter membership and a seller membership; Accepting the requirements of at least one type of membership at a given level; Fulfilling the requirements of the at least one type of membership; Ranking the grade of the member compared to other members having the same type of membership at the predetermined level; And promoting the member to a next membership level if the ranked grade exceeds a membership threshold.

A method of participating in an online sporting event on a computer network according to another aspect of the present invention includes: registering as a member of an online sporting event organization; Installing at least one of software and hardware approved by the organization; Registering an entry of an online sporting event in accordance with at least one of the software and hardware requirements for at least a first game level; Training on the registration entry of an online sporting event to qualify for a first match level; Qualifying the registration entry for the first game level by accumulating credit from training with the registration entry; Playing with the first level qualification acquisition and registration entry at the first match level; Acquiring a qualification for a second game level by accumulating credits from racing at the first game level; Playing with the second level qualification acquisition and registration entry at the second game level; Acquiring a qualification for a third game level by accumulating credits from racing at the second game level; And playing with the third level qualification acquisition and registration entry at the third game level. And acquiring a qualification for the Grand Prix by accumulating credits from racing at the third race level, wherein the first, second and third race levels are progressively higher level of skill, competitive success. success), schedules of the first, second, third and higher levels of competition are pre-established, and credits of the first, second and third levels of competition gradually increase in value. It features.

A method of hosting a plurality of online sporting events on a computer network according to another aspect of the present invention comprises the steps of: inputting the plurality of players playing at a predetermined level equal to one in a match according to the overall ranking of each of the plurality of players ; Initiating current online sporting events in at least one of the game rankings of various levels among the plurality of similarly ranked players; Determining a real time interval for notifying each of the plurality of players of a game position of each player in a current online sporting event; Notifying each of the plurality of players playing each other in the current online sporting event of the update of the game position of each player within the predetermined real time interval; Notifying the end results of current online sporting events at the end of the current online sporting event and updating at least each of the plurality of players playing each other in the current online sporting event an overall competition ranking.

A system for performing online sporting events in real time according to another aspect of the present invention is connected to a computer network via a network interface, is configured to host a plurality of players of an online sporting event, and plays at predetermined real time intervals. At least one server computer configured to update the ranking of the players during the process.

In a system for performing an online sporting event, the computer subsystem is connected with the computer network via a network interface, and the memory of the computer subsystem is connected with data for access by an application program running on a server computer that performs the online sporting event. Configured to store programs. Data about the ranking of players during game play, and the overall ranking of each of a plurality of players through a series of matches are stored in the memory. In this way, each match is used to rank each player's skills. Subsequent matches form a tiered system leading to the finals where only the top players are invited to participate.

In a system for performing an online sporting event, a player obtains access to an online sporting event in real time using a client computer connected with a computer network via a network interface. The client computer is associated with the current online sporting event and is configured to be updated with player performance data at predetermined substantially real time intervals. In this way, each player experiences a real-time based play action.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings will be described embodiments of the present invention in more detail.

1 is a flow chart illustrating, without limitation, a method of operating the online game system of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a flow diagram illustrating, without limitation, a method for maintaining participant membership in an online game system of the present invention. FIG.

FIG. 2B is a flow chart illustrating, without limitation, a method of maintaining recruiter membership in an online game system of the present invention. FIG.

Fig. 2C is a flow chart illustrating, without limitation, a method of maintaining merchant membership in an online game system of the present invention.

3A is a flowchart illustrating a method of participating in an online sporting event in real time, without limitation.

3B is a flowchart illustrating a method of performing an online sporting event in real time, without limitation.

4 is a block diagram illustrating, without limitation, a system and apparatus for performing an online sporting event in real time.

5 is a block diagram illustrating, without limitation, a device for performing an online sporting event in real time.

6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an accessory disposed at a position of a player participating in a race game.

7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an arcade model of the accessory of FIG. 6.

8 is a block diagram illustrating, without limitation, converting each analog input signal generated by a player into digital data for transmission to a game hosting server.

9 is a flow chart illustrating, without limitation, server execution order for multi-party.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating, without limitation, how application software is executed by a player's computer to play in an online game.

1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating the online game system of the present invention. Step 102 of FIG. 1 is a step of registering at least one competitor, recruiter, and distributor membership in the online game system. In step 103, at least one type of membership requirements is agreed upon by the member. Fulfilling the requirements of one type of membership takes place in step 104 of FIG. Step 105 includes ranking a member's grades against other members and a predetermined criteria with the same type of membership of that predetermined level. In step 106, if the ranked grade exceeds the membership threshold, the member is promoted to the next level of membership.

2A is a flowchart illustrating a method of maintaining participant membership 210 of the present invention online game system. Step 211 of FIG. 2A is to agree to a certain level of participant membership requirements. In step 212, at least one hardware and software of at least the minimum level is purchased that satisfies the predetermined level of participant membership. Training to play in the at least one hardware and software is done in step 213 of FIG. 2A. Step 214 is a step for playing at least one of the prize and prize. In step 215, the ranking of the participant is evaluated by comparing with the predetermined criteria and other participants at the predetermined level. Preferably, the ranking is determined according to the amount of at least one of prizes, prizes, rankings and grade scores earned by the participant. In step 216 of FIG. 2A, if the participant's rank exceeds the participant threshold, the participant is promoted to the next predetermined level. If the ranking does not exceed the participant limit, the participant continues at the current predetermined membership level and returns to training to increase skill level as in step 213.

2B is a flowchart illustrating a method of maintaining recruitment membership in an online game system of the present invention. Step 221 is a step of accepting recruiter membership requirements of a certain level. In step 222, at least the minimum number of new members are registered to satisfy the predetermined level of recruiter membership. Collecting membership fees from the recruited new members takes place in step 223. Step 224 is a step of donating a percentage of the membership fee for at least one of the prize and the prize. In step 225, a percentage of the membership fee is received as a recruiter fee. Preferably, the recruiter fee is based on a ranking compared to other recruiters at the predetermined level. By way of non-limiting example, the ranking may be determined by the degree of donation for at least one of the prizes, prizes, total registrants, income and number of registered recruits in the recruiter's network by the recruiter. If the rank of the recruiter exceeds the recruiter threshold, promotion to the next predetermined level recruiter membership occurs at step 226. If the rank does not exceed the recruitment limit, the recruiter returns to registering at least the minimum number of new members required by the current predetermined level of membership, as shown in step 222.

2C is a flow chart illustrating a method of maintaining merchant membership 230 in an online game system of the present invention. Step 231 of FIG. 2C is to agree to certain levels of merchant membership requirements. In step 232, a minimum quantity of at least one of the hardware and software packages of the merchant level of the predetermined level is purchased. Collecting a fee from the sale of the at least one hardware and software is made in step 233. Step 234 grants a percentage of the sales fee for at least one of the prize and the prize. In step 235, a percentage of the sales fee is received as a seller fee. Preferably, the seller fee is based on a ranking compared to other sellers at the predetermined level. By way of non-limiting example, the ranking may be determined according to a degree of donation for at least one of sales donations, network sales donations, the number of network sellers in the seller network, participants, sellers and products of the seller's network. If the seller's rank exceeds the seller limit, promotion to the next predetermined seller membership level is made at step 236. If the ranking does not exceed the seller limit, the seller returns to purchasing at least the minimum number of hardware / software required by the current predetermined membership level, as indicated in step 232.

4 is a block diagram illustrating, without limitation, one embodiment of a system and apparatus for performing an online sporting event in real time. In particular, FIG. 4 includes at least one server computer 401 in communication with a computer network 405 via an interface (eg, a network interface (N.I.)). Non-limiting examples of server computer 401 include any general purpose computing facility and web server capable of accommodating a large number of users. Non-limiting examples of computer networks 405 include the Internet and Local Area Networks.

The apparatus for performing a real time online sporting event includes a server computer 401 in communication with the computer network 405 via an interface (eg, a network interface (N.I.)). The server computer 401 includes application programs that host a plurality of online sporting events, in which a plurality of players play simultaneously. Each online sporting event represents a game ranking based on the player's skill level and previous rankings.

The server computer 401 is configured to run a computer game application for multiple players of an online sporting event and to update the plurality of players on a substantially real time basis with their relative position in an ongoing game. At the end of the match, each player's ranking is recalculated based on the most recent score. The match rankings are used to provide an indication of the relative skill / rank of multiple players and to allow participants of similar skill levels to play against each other. Providing this information in real time, such as during a race car driving race, can give players a sense of where they are at the event as well as the reality of the race.

3A is a flowchart illustrating a method of performing an online sports game in real time, without limitation. In FIG. 3A, an initial step 301 is to host a plurality of online sporting events, each of which has a game ranking indicating the skill level of the players. The game ranking includes certain criteria for participating in a game level. In order to participate, each participant must meet the criteria of the match ranking level. Step 303 of FIG. 3A identifies a plurality of players who have a ranking for playing with other participants in one of the rankings. Only a limited number of participants can enter any current online game. In step 305, if there are a sufficient number of valid players for at least one match level, starting the current online sporting event at at least one of the various levels of matches is performed.

Step 307 of FIG. 3A predetermines the real time interval between updates of the performance of each player in the current online sporting event. This predetermined real time interval can be determined by considering at least the number of players and the computer network loading that can affect the reaction time of the server computers 401, 501 and client computers 407, 409, 411, 507, 509, 511. Can be.

In step 309, the flowchart shows notifying each of a plurality of players playing at the current online sporting event within the real time interval an update of the player's performance. Furthermore, step 311 of FIG. 3A indicates the end result of the current online sporting event, notifying the final result of the current online sporting event, and updating the ranking of the plurality of players playing with each other.

The overall ranking of each of the plurality of players in the current online sporting event is modified based on the final result of the current online game ranking.

The method of FIG. 3A includes determining a prize for a plurality of players based on the final result of the current online sporting event. Prizes may be in the form of credits for future entry fees for online sporting events. The determining of the prize may be based on at least the updated player ranking.

The method of FIG. 3A may include voice communication between a plurality of players during a current online sporting event. Non-limiting examples of communication by voice include Voice Over Internet Protocol, Instant Messaging, telephonic party-line communication, and any other current voice interface system. The real-time nature of this communication between players further enhances the realism of online matches.

Step 307 of FIG. 3A predetermines the real time interval between updates of the performance of each player in the current online sporting event. This predetermined real time interval takes into account at least the number of players and computer network loading that can affect the response times of server computers 401, 501 and client computers 407, 409, 411, 507, 509, 511. Can be determined.

In step 309, the flowchart shows notifying each of a plurality of players playing at the current online sporting event within the real time interval an update of the player's performance. Further, step 311 of FIG. 3A shows the end result of the current online sporting event, notifying the final result of the current online sporting event and updating the ranking of the plurality of players playing against each other.

3B shows a flow chart that illustrates, without limitation, a method of performing an online sporting event in real time. In FIG. 3B, initiation step 321 is registering a player as a member of an online sports organization. To participate, each participant must meet membership criteria, which may include, but are not limited to, alliance membership. If the registration of step 321 succeeds, then in step 323 of FIG. 3B the registrant installs at least one hardware and software, approved by the online sports organization, in a convenient location such as a registrant, home or computer. Non-limiting examples of hardware and software are described and illustrated in more detail in the detailed description below.

In step 325 of FIG. 3B, after installation of the selected hardware / software, the registrant registers and / or designs the entry of the online game. If the registrant successfully registers an entry for the online game, the registrant may begin the training phase to develop the skill level in accordance with the first game level of step 327. The training in step 327 of FIG. 3B may include, but is not limited to, one-to-one competition using software simulation with other registrants and / or on a host computer or client computer. In step 329, after completing a sufficient amount of training, the registrant may leave the training phase to qualify for the first game level.

The registrant starts the playing phase by competing credits in step 331 of FIG. 3B. If the registrant can accumulate a sufficient number of credits while playing with the players at the first match level, the registrant will qualify for the second match level in step 333 of FIG. 3B. After qualifying for the second game level, the registrant may compete for credit at the second game level as shown in step 335 of FIG. 3B. If the registrant is able to accumulate a sufficient number of credits while playing at the second game level, the registrant acquires the qualification for the third game level in step 337 of FIG. 3B. After qualifying for the third game level, the registrant may compete for credit at the third game level as shown in step 339 of FIG. 3B. If the registrant is able to accumulate a sufficient number of credits while playing at the third race level, the registrant will qualify for the Grand Prix product, as indicated in step 341 of FIG. 3B.

The invention described in terms of providing real-time online video games to multiple players allows for a variety of different game formats to be played. The system is particularly applicable to each client computer; It is applicable to a race game in which the player has a device for encoding a real-time driving command in a race race.

4 also shows a computer subsystem 403 having a memory 404 in communication with a computer network 405 via an interface (eg, a network interface). The memory 404 stores data and programs for access by the server computer 401 performing online sporting events. The memory 404 also stores the ranking of a plurality of players. This allows for easy identification of players who must play at the same level of the game. In addition, the memory 404 also stores data indicative of the overall ranking of each of a plurality of players through a plurality of successive matches. Non-limiting examples of the memory 404 may be an electronic database, hard disk drive, and mass storage means.

4 also shows client computers 407, 409, 411 in communication with computer network 405 via an interface (eg, a network interface). Client computers 407, 409, 411 connect the player to the current online sporting event running on server computer 401. These client computers receive updates of player grades from the server computer 401 via the computer subsystem 403 in substantially real time for each of the plurality of players so that the player always knows his position in the current game. The real time interval between player performance updates in the current online sporting event is predetermined for each of a plurality of players playing at the same game level. This predetermined real time interval is a function of the number of players and the expected computer network 405 loading / traffic conditions. The predetermined real-time interval is set to ensure that the player receives the information at a rate that can bring realism to the ongoing game.

4 also shows hardware accessories 413, 415, 417 connected to the client computer. Hardware accessories 413, 415, 417 communicate with client computers via an interface INT and allow players to play against each other by providing input generated by the player to the current online sporting event in real time. Hardware accessories 413, 415, 417 send and receive audio and video content as well as instructions to client computers 407, 409, 411. Hardware accessories 413, 415, 417 provide current online sporting events to a number of players with a realistic playing environment.

5 shows a non-limiting block diagram of another apparatus for performing online sporting events in real time. In particular, FIG. 5 shows client computers 507, 509, 511 communicating with computer network 505 on an interface (eg, N.I.). Moreover, computer network 505 is coupled to multi-player device 502 that includes application programs that run on a server that provides instructions to online sporting event participants. Client computers 507, 509, 511 interface the current online sporting event and update the player's position in the game at real time intervals.

5 also shows hardware accessories 513, 515, 517 connected to client computers 507, 509, 511. Hardware accessories 513, 515, 517 communicate with client computers via an interface INT and allow players to compete with each other by providing inputs generated by the player to the current online sports competitors in real time. Hardware accessories 513, 515, 517 send and receive audio and video content as well as instructions to client computers 507, 509, 511. Hardware accessories 513, 515, 517 provide the current online sporting event to a number of players with a realistic playing environment.

As discussed above, the real time interval between updates of a player's relative position in an ongoing game is predetermined for each of the multiple players so that players can fully experience the game.

5 also allows multiple players to play against each other according to the overall ranking of each of the players. Players enter the game by paying for the registration electronically using e-commerce techniques. The apparatus of FIG. 5 further includes means for receiving an entry fee for each of the plurality of players before the start of the current online sporting event. Internet-based means for registering players and paying entry fees using a credit / debit card is part of each client computer application program. Once paid, the server computer 501 authenticates the client computers 507, 509, 511 to access the game play software executed by the multiplayer server device 502.

After players are registered and participants in at least one level of competition are determined according to their overall ranking, at least one online sporting event of other levels of the competition is started. Preferably all competitors are notified at the same time to ensure fairness of the competition. Non-limiting examples of starting a match include audio (e.g., start gunshot or audible) or visual signs (e.g., flapping the start flag) displayed by the client computers of players upon command of the multiplayer server device 502. I).

The multiplayer server device 502 predetermines the real time interval between updates of the player position in the current online sporting event for each of the players. Players are selected to have the same match ranking as determined from the last online sports game. The apparatus of FIG. 2 provides the player with updates of the player's position in the game.

The apparatus of FIG. 5 also updates updates of the player's locations within a real time interval determined by the server device computer 502 via the computer network 505 and client computers 507, 509, 511. Report to each of the other players competing with each other. These results may also be communicated to other interested parties identified. The reporting of this information may be audio and video information digitized by electronic mail. The examples for reporting also apply to reporting the final results of the current online game, and at the end of the online sporting event the resulting new rankings for each of the plurality of players are updated with the results of the most recent game.

The hardware accessories 513, 515, 517 of the device of FIG. 5 for ranking competition include a joystick, steering wheel, clutch-brake-gas pedal assembly, gear transmissions, racing seats, upgraded video screens, drivers as described above. It may also include at least one of a driver racing tub and a race car body. Additional hardware accessories may include a treadmill, bicycle, motorcycle, boat, flight cockpit, and associated devices. The hardware accessories 513, 515, 517 of FIG. 5 may be connected to the client computer by a parallel port, serial port, USB bus, or any other conventional computer interface.

The apparatus of FIG. 5 further determines a prize for each of the plurality of players based on the final results of current online sporting events. The process for determining these prizes includes a multiplayer server device 502; Client computers 507, 509, 511; Or in another device connected to the computer network 505 programmed for this purpose. The determination of the prize will be based at least on the updated match rankings of the players. Prizes may also be in the form of credits for entry fees for future online sporting events.

The apparatus of FIG. 5 may provide voice communication among players during a current online sporting event. Non-limiting examples of means for communicating include Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Instant Messaging, telephonic party-line communication, and any other current voice interface system. The real time feature of the communications between the matches further establishes the realistic idea of the online match.

6 illustrates the principle of hardware accessories 413, 415, 417 used in a client computer to participate in a ranking game. Racing station 615 includes a seat 616 positioned for various drive controls. Steering wheel 621, gear shift 623, accelerator 624, brake 625, and clutch 626 (as in normal arcade games) connect to various transducers that encode the position of the control into an electrical signal. It is. Display 620 generates a visual representation of the personal location from the client computer 607 (not shown) based on the data received from the host server. A microphone (not shown) may optionally be included for players to send voice conversations to the server.

The basic racing station module 615 may be enhanced similar to an arcade racing game as shown in FIG. 7 to more closely simulate the conditions of driving a racing vehicle. However, whether such glitters as the outer covering 727 is used is not essential to the present invention.

8 shows a block diagram of hardware accessories 413, 415, 417 connected to a client computer 807 for sending and receiving instructions to a host server computer 801 performing a racing race. The analog / digital interface 830 receives each of the analog voltages indicating the position of the clutch, brake, steering wheel, accelerator, and gear shift. The client computer 807 samples, digitizes, and digitizes the analog voltages coming through the I / O port and prepares the host server computer 801 for a frame of data for transmission via the modem 833. Data received from the host server computer 801 is decrypted and sent to the user on the computer display 820 or to other feedback / stimulus systems to make the experience as realistic as possible.

The multi-player racing game is provided by a host computer 801 running certain game playing software, which is shown more specifically in FIG. Referring now to FIG. 9, in step 950 play begins when a sufficient number of flares are authorized. The authorization step usually includes determining whether the player has paid the fee required to enter the game by using an e-commerce payment technique. In addition, the state of the user for a particular level of the game is proved. This game level may be the result of a previous game in which the player participated by mitigating hits that were performed by the host server computer 801.

When the host server computer 801 authorizes that a sufficient number of players are online and available to start the race, the race begins in step 951. The start command 952 is sent to all of the players via electronic mail and decrypted by each of the authenticated player's client computer processors. During play, instructions representing various control data generated by the racing station modules 615, 715 of FIGS. 6 and 7 are received from each of the flares. In step 954, each of the data frames received from the players is used to reposition the racer by the host computer playing the racing game for each participant. In step 956 new locations are sent to each player as data that can be displayed on the display 820. Under the control of the client computer 807 the display may locate a number of displayed vehicles in accordance with the received information.

Decision block 957 determines the elapsed time of the race when the player wins based on his position in the race. Once the winner is determined, a race end command is sent to all players at step 958. New ranks of various players are then calculated based on their performance as judged by the software running the game on the host server 801. The award is awarded based on the new rankings and in step 961 notifications of the award are sent to each of the players.

During play, application software residing on the client computer 807 is executed and interacts with the host server 801. 10 illustrates a flow diagram for a method for joining a race when multiple players reside at the client computer 807. When a start race command is received from the host server 801, in step 1075 the software starts execution. In step 1076 an icon is displayed to inform the player of the start of the race. Start position data for each player may be transmitted by the host server 801 and displayed as a race vehicle on a race track on the display 820 of the client computer 807 in step 1077.

The player operates the controls of the racing station module 615 based on the display information he saw on the display 820. The display may show a race track profile that changes over time. Various controls generate steering information, braking information, clutch position, gear shift position as well as acceleration information. This information is placed in a frame with a header identifying the particular player in step 1079 and sent as a message to the host server 801. Player position updaters are received from the host server in step 1080 and displayed on display 820 in step 1082. When the host server computer 801 declares a winner, a race end command is sent and received on the user's display 820 in step 1083. New rankings based on the relative performance of each player in the race game are then received from the host server computer 801 for display and storage at the client computer 807.

As such, multiple users can race with each other in real time and the relative rankings are adjusted based on the race results. The system also allows other races to be played among the players with the new ranks who have reached the top of the championship race among the players with the highest ranks. Award awards may be sent via the Internet as cash to the winning player's bank account or in the form of a credit to the winning player for future play time.

The advantages of real-time play are realized with the present invention, as a result of which multiple players can play with each other and benefit from real-time racing experiences.

The foregoing description illustrates and depicts the invention. In addition, although the specification shows and describes only preferred embodiments of the present invention, as mentioned above, the present invention may be used in a variety of other combinations, modifications, and environments, and as indicated herein, of the concept of the present invention. It will be understood that changes or variations may be made within the scope and may correspond to the above teachings and / or knowledge of the skilled or related art. The embodiments described herein describe the best known modes of practicing the invention with various modifications as required by the particular applications or uses of the invention and others skilled in the art will recognize the invention as such. Or for use in other embodiments. Accordingly, the description is not intended to limit the invention to the form or application disclosed herein. It is also to be understood that the appended claims include alternative embodiments.

Claims (27)

Registering with the online game system as at least one of participant membership, recruiter membership, and merchant membership; Accepting the requirements of at least one type of membership at a given level; Fulfilling the requirements of the at least one type of membership; Ranking the grade of the member compared to other members having the same type of membership at the predetermined level; And And promoting the member to a next membership level if the ranked grade exceeds a membership threshold. The method of claim 1, Registering with the participant membership includes: Accepting certain levels of participant membership requirements; Purchasing at least a minimum level of at least one of hardware and software to satisfy the predetermined level of participant membership; Training to play in the at least one of hardware and software; Playing for at least one of the prize and prize; Ranking in comparison with other participants at the predetermined level, wherein the ranking is determined according to an amount of at least one of a prize and a prize obtained by the participant; And Promoting to the next predetermined level if the ranking of the participant exceeds a participant limit value. The method of claim 1, Registering with the recruiter membership includes: Accepting some level of recruiter membership requirements; Registering at least a minimum number of new members to satisfy the predetermined level of recruiter membership; Collecting a membership fee from the recruited new members; Donating a percentage of membership fees for at least one of the prizes and prizes; Receiving a percentage of the membership fee as a recruiter fee, wherein the recruiter fee is based on a ranking compared to other recruiters at the predetermined level, the ranking being a registered newcomer in the recruiter network Number of revenues, revenue, total registrants, prizes by recruiters and donations to at least one of the prizes; And Promoting to a next predetermined level of recruiter membership if the rank of the recruiter exceeds a recruiter limit value. The method of claim 1, Registering with the merchant membership includes: Accepting certain levels of merchant membership requirements; Purchasing at least a minimum number of at least one of a hardware and a software package at the predetermined level of merchant membership; Collecting a fee from said at least one sale of hardware and software packages; Donating a percentage of a sales fee for at least one of the prize and the prize; Receiving a percentage of the sale fee as a seller fee, wherein the seller fee is based on a ranking compared to other sellers at the predetermined level, the rank being a sale donation, a network sale donation, a network of the seller The number of network sellers in the network, the network prizes of the sellers by the seller and the network of sellers and the contributions of at least one of the prizes and prizes of the participants in the prizes; And Promoting to a next predetermined level of seller membership if the rank of the seller exceeds a seller limit value. Registering as a member of an online sports competition organization; Installing at least one of software and hardware approved by the organization; Registering an entry of an online sporting event in accordance with at least one of the software and hardware requirements for at least a first game level; Training on the registration entry of an online sporting event to qualify for a first match level; Qualifying the registration entry for the first game level by accumulating credit from training with the registration entry; Playing with the first level qualification acquisition and registration entry at the first match level; Acquiring a qualification for a second game level by accumulating credits from racing at the first game level; Playing with the second level qualification acquisition and registration entry at the second game level; Acquiring a qualification for a third game level by accumulating credits from racing at the second game level; And Playing with the third level qualification acquisition and registration entry at the third game level; And Obtaining a qualification for the Grand Prix by accumulating credits from racing at the third race level, The first, second and third game levels require progressively higher levels of skill, competitive success, and the first, second, third and higher levels of competition are pre-established. And crediting the first, second and third game levels gradually increasing in value. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein racing at the first, second and third game levels is possible by invitation only, wherein the invitation is based on a predetermined formula for selecting an invitee. Way. The method of claim 5, And wherein said credit is at least one of points, prizes, and monetary awards. Inputting the plurality of players playing at the same predetermined level as each other in the game according to the overall ranking of each of the plurality of players; Initiating current online sporting events at at least one of various levels of match rankings among a plurality of similarly ranked players; Determining a real time interval for notifying each of the plurality of players of a game position of each player in a current online sporting event; Notifying each of the plurality of players playing each other in the current online sporting event of the update of the game position of each player within the predetermined real time interval; Notifying the end results of the current online sporting events at the end of the current online sporting event and updating at least each of the plurality of players playing against each other in the current online sporting event an overall competition ranking. A method of hosting a plurality of online sporting events on a network. The method of claim 8, Determining a monetary award for each of the plurality of players based on the final result of the current online sporting event. The method of claim 8, Modifying the overall ranking of each of the plurality of players in the current online sporting event based on the final result of the ranking of the game. The method of claim 8, Paying an entry fee for each of the plurality of players before the start of the current online sporting event. The method of claim 8, And wherein the overall ranking of each of the plurality of players is based on at least one of current online sporting events and past online sporting events. The method of claim 8, And the monetary award is at least one of a credit and cash for the participation fee in a subsequent online sporting event. The method of claim 8, And communicating by voice with each of the plurality of players at the same level as the match rank during the current online match. The method of claim 14, And wherein said communicating by voice is provided by at least one of Voice Over Internet Protocol, Instant Messaging, and telephonic party-line communication. At least one server computer communicating over a computer network, said at least one server hosting a plurality of players of an online sporting event and updating the ranking of the plurality of players within a predetermined substantially real time interval. Configured to; At least one computer subsystem having a memory in communication over the computer network, wherein the at least one computer subsystem with the memory stores data and programs for access by an application program to perform an online sporting event. Store and store data about the game performance of the plurality of players, and store data for the overall ranking of each of the plurality of players; And At least one client computer communicating over the computer network, wherein the at least one client computer updates the players' performance scores within the predetermined real time interval and gives the players their overall ranking compared to other players. And to connect to current online sporting events provided by the providing server. A client computer in communication with a server computer executing an application program for playing an interactive game over a computer network, the client computer configured to be associated with a current online sporting event that updates the game score within a predetermined substantially real time interval; ; And Hardware accessories for communicating with the client computer and for playing the online sporting event, wherein the hardware accessories are configured to provide each of the plurality of players with a realistic interface for the current online sporting event. Device for participating in online sporting events. The method of claim 17, And the hardware accessories are connected to the client computer by at least one of a parallel port, a serial bus and a USB bus. The method of claim 18, The hardware accessories are at least one of a joystick, steering wheel, clutch-brake-gas pedal assembly, gear transmission, racing seat, upgraded video display, driver racing tub, and race car body. Device. At least one server computer communicating over a computer network, wherein the at least one server computer hosts a plurality of players connected to the computer network via a client computer, the server computer: Initiating an online sporting event at at least one level corresponding to a game ranking of the plurality of players; Pre-determining a substantially real time interval between updates of the player's performance in a current online sporting event for each of the plurality of players; Notifying at least each of the plurality of players playing with each other within the predetermined real time interval of an update of the game; And And a game play computer program for notifying the end result of the online game at the end of the current online sporting event and updating the ranking of each of the plurality of players playing against each other in the current online sporting event. A device for performing online sporting events in real time. The method of claim 20, And a computer program for determining a monetary award for each of the plurality of players based on a final result of the current online sporting event. The method of claim 20, And computer program means for modifying the overall ranking of the plurality of players in the current online game based on the final result of the game. The method of claim 20, And means for storing an entry fee for each of the plurality of players before initiating a current online sporting event. The method of claim 20, And wherein the overall ranking of each of the plurality of players is based on at least one of current online sporting events and past online sporting events. The method of claim 20, And the monetary award is at least one of credit and cash for the participation fee in a subsequent online sporting event. The method of claim 20, And means for communicating by voice with each of the plurality of players of the competition during the current online sporting event. The method of claim 26, And the means for communicating by voice is provided by at least one of Voice Over Internet Protocol, Instant Messaging, and telephonic party-line communication.

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