US20040058732A1 - Method, system and apparatus for location based gaming - Google Patents

Method, system and apparatus for location based gaming Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20040058732A1
US20040058732A1 US10/461,171 US46117103A US2004058732A1 US 20040058732 A1 US20040058732 A1 US 20040058732A1 US 46117103 A US46117103 A US 46117103A US 2004058732 A1 US2004058732 A1 US 2004058732A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
location
target object
game
player
players
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/461,171
Inventor
Gregory Piccionelli
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Meta Platforms Inc
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US10/461,171 priority Critical patent/US20040058732A1/en
Publication of US20040058732A1 publication Critical patent/US20040058732A1/en
Priority to US11/804,054 priority patent/US7946919B2/en
Priority to US13/068,892 priority patent/US8292735B2/en
Assigned to KOLETRY PROCESSING L.L.C. reassignment KOLETRY PROCESSING L.L.C. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: GEOCOM, LLC
Priority to US13/609,380 priority patent/US8517831B2/en
Assigned to FACEBOOK, INC. reassignment FACEBOOK, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 88 LLC
Assigned to META PLATFORMS, INC. reassignment META PLATFORMS, INC. CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FACEBOOK, INC.
Assigned to GEOCOM, LLC reassignment GEOCOM, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PICCIONELLI, GREGORY A.
Assigned to GULA CONSULTING LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY reassignment GULA CONSULTING LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY MERGER (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KOLETRY PROCESSING L.L.C.
Assigned to INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 88 LLC reassignment INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 88 LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: GULA CONSULTING LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/20—Input arrangements for video game devices
    • A63F13/21—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types
    • A63F13/216—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types using geographical information, e.g. location of the game device or player using GPS
    • A63F13/12—
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/30—Interconnection arrangements between game servers and game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game servers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/60—Generating or modifying game content before or while executing the game program, e.g. authoring tools specially adapted for game development or game-integrated level editor
    • A63F13/65—Generating or modifying game content before or while executing the game program, e.g. authoring tools specially adapted for game development or game-integrated level editor automatically by game devices or servers from real world data, e.g. measurement in live racing competition
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/20—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterised by details of the game platform
    • A63F2300/205—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterised by details of the game platform for detecting the geographical location of the game platform

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method, system and apparatus for enabling a user to play a computer game or “video game” using information associated with a player or object at a specific location.
  • a method of location-based gaming that includes the steps of engaging a program to play a game, determining the location of a target object, providing the location of the target object to a central location, obtaining a data file pertaining to an object at the location of the target object, and generating gaming object data relative to the location of the target object.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic illustrating an example of a method of the invention by which a player identifies, locates, obtains information pertaining to and interacts with a game object and another player.
  • a player first engages a program to play a game.
  • the game may be downloaded to the player's mobile computing device, such as a personal digital assistant, laptop computer or similar device.
  • the player computer may be connected to a heads-up display for the purposes of displaying the game action, objects in the game, other players, scores, remote sensing features and the like.
  • the user determines the location of a target object, such as another player.
  • the user determines the location of the target object relative to the user's location.
  • the target object may be another player, a physical object such as a tree, a water source or rock, or merely a selected location in physical space which may be used to correspond to a virtual location in the game.
  • the distance between the user and a target object is determined using a ranging device.
  • Appropriate ranging devices include, without limitation, a device having an element that determines the distance or range to a target based on the eye positions of the user (e.g., using a cross-hairs element in the heads-up display); an infrared pointer device; an ultrasonic device; or any other ranging device.
  • the player's computer also carries a locating element, such as a GPS locator, that provides the user's location, as well as the orientation of the user (i.e., the direction in which the user is facing).
  • a locating element such as a GPS locator
  • this location is transmitted to a central location, in particular to a central computer.
  • the information is transmitted via a wide-area network ,such as the Internet, using a device carried by the user, such as, but not limited to, a personal data manager, a cellular telephone having Internet accessibility, etc.
  • the central location searches for one or more data files pertaining to an object at that location.
  • data files can include, without limitation, text files, photographic files, video files, audio files, or dynamically changing data associated with the target object.
  • the data regarding the location(s) of the other player(s) may be updated dynamically with new information regarding the present location of the other player(s) in physical space being supplied by one or more devices, such as GPS location devices.
  • two players are each equipped with wireless computers capable of detecting their physical locations and transmitting the locations via a wide area network to a gaming computer, which coordinates the location of the players with each other and virtual objects generated by the gaming program.
  • the program then generates gaming object data, including perspective, size, etc., to the players so that the objects appearing in the heads-up displays of the players appear to realistically change their appearance in relation to the location of the players. For example, if the players are fifty feet apart and across from each other in a large grassy meadow of a park, in some embodiments, the gaming computer would transmit data corresponding to a game object of a dinosaur presented in the heads-up display of the players in proper proportion to appear to be between the players.
  • the players move, for example, circling the area corresponding to the computer-generated location of the dinosaur game object, the players would receive in their displays a rapidly updated depiction of the game object corresponding to the views one would see if one were traversing around a real object.
  • a physical game tool or utensil is also equipped with a location sensing and transmitting means.
  • the game tool is a sword which contains GPS location sensing and transmission capability.
  • the locations of the players and their actions are incorporated into the game, interact in real time with virtual game objects, such as computer generated dinosaurs, and such interactions and other game objects are displayed in a semitransparent heads-up display which enables the real world to be the backdrop for the game.
  • virtual game objects such as computer generated dinosaurs
  • the player could play against one or more physical players viewed directly via such semi-transparent heads-up displays, but who appear to be mixed into or otherwise superimposed upon the computer-generated game environments which are transmitted to the players' computers for display via their heads-up displays.
  • the wireless computers may be capable of receiving voice commands via microphones attached to the heads-up displays.
  • the players could request to play a game in which voice commands are used exclusively.
  • Gaming object data as described above include video data, such as perspectives, sizes and the like. Further embodiments of the inventive method include additional gaming object data such as audio, tactile and olfactory information.
  • one or more scent reservoirs which are carried, for example, in a headset or other apparatus worn by a player, can be triggered in response to gaming object data generated by the gaming program.

Abstract

A method of location-based gaming includes the steps of engaging a program to play a game, determining the location of a target object, providing the location of the target object to a central location, obtaining a data file pertaining to an object at the location of the target object, and generating gaming object data relative to the location of the target object.

Description

  • This application is based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/389,700, filed Jun. 14, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.[0001]
    • FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to a method, system and apparatus for enabling a user to play a computer game or “video game” using information associated with a player or object at a specific location. [0002]
    • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • Recent developments in telecommunications and data processing, and in particular the development of broadband capability in connection with wide-area networks such as the Internet and wireless interfaces to such networks, offer the potential for facilitating the transmission and reception of large amounts of information which may be directed to effectuating an electronic gaming environment in which one or more players may interact with each other and/or computer generated objects. However, at present it is typically necessary for a player to obtain the desired information and play electronic games at a single fixed location, such as a home or office computer, an Internet café or the like. [0003]
  • A need exists for a method for enabling players to interact with each other or objects in a game, or other persons in relation to the locations of the players, objects and/or other persons. [0004]
  • A need also exists for a system and apparatus for facilitating such methods. [0005]
    • SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
  • In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of location-based gaming that includes the steps of engaging a program to play a game, determining the location of a target object, providing the location of the target object to a central location, obtaining a data file pertaining to an object at the location of the target object, and generating gaming object data relative to the location of the target object. [0006]
  • Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. It is to be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by way of illustration and not limitation. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention may be made without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.[0007]
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • The invention may be more readily understood by referring to the accompanying drawings in which [0008]
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic illustrating an example of a method of the invention by which a player identifies, locates, obtains information pertaining to and interacts with a game object and another player. [0009]
    • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
  • Turning now to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, a player first engages a program to play a game. The game may be downloaded to the player's mobile computing device, such as a personal digital assistant, laptop computer or similar device. In some preferred embodiments, the player computer may be connected to a heads-up display for the purposes of displaying the game action, objects in the game, other players, scores, remote sensing features and the like. [0010]
  • In some preferred embodiments, the user determines the location of a target object, such as another player. In particular, the user determines the location of the target object relative to the user's location. The target object may be another player, a physical object such as a tree, a water source or rock, or merely a selected location in physical space which may be used to correspond to a virtual location in the game. The distance between the user and a target object is determined using a ranging device. Appropriate ranging devices include, without limitation, a device having an element that determines the distance or range to a target based on the eye positions of the user (e.g., using a cross-hairs element in the heads-up display); an infrared pointer device; an ultrasonic device; or any other ranging device. [0011]
  • Preferably, the player's computer also carries a locating element, such as a GPS locator, that provides the user's location, as well as the orientation of the user (i.e., the direction in which the user is facing). The user's location and orientation, together with the location of the target object relative to the user, thus can be used to determine the location of the target object. [0012]
  • Once the location of the target object has been determined, this location is transmitted to a central location, in particular to a central computer. In particular embodiments, the information is transmitted via a wide-area network ,such as the Internet, using a device carried by the user, such as, but not limited to, a personal data manager, a cellular telephone having Internet accessibility, etc. [0013]
  • When the central location is provided with the location of the target object, the central location searches for one or more data files pertaining to an object at that location. Such data files can include, without limitation, text files, photographic files, video files, audio files, or dynamically changing data associated with the target object. In some preferred embodiments, such as when the target object is one or more other players, the data regarding the location(s) of the other player(s) may be updated dynamically with new information regarding the present location of the other player(s) in physical space being supplied by one or more devices, such as GPS location devices. [0014]
  • In one preferred embodiment, two players are each equipped with wireless computers capable of detecting their physical locations and transmitting the locations via a wide area network to a gaming computer, which coordinates the location of the players with each other and virtual objects generated by the gaming program. The program then generates gaming object data, including perspective, size, etc., to the players so that the objects appearing in the heads-up displays of the players appear to realistically change their appearance in relation to the location of the players. For example, if the players are fifty feet apart and across from each other in a large grassy meadow of a park, in some embodiments, the gaming computer would transmit data corresponding to a game object of a dinosaur presented in the heads-up display of the players in proper proportion to appear to be between the players. As the players move, for example, circling the area corresponding to the computer-generated location of the dinosaur game object, the players would receive in their displays a rapidly updated depiction of the game object corresponding to the views one would see if one were traversing around a real object. [0015]
  • In some embodiments, a physical game tool or utensil is also equipped with a location sensing and transmitting means. In some embodiments the game tool is a sword which contains GPS location sensing and transmission capability. By the use of such additional devices which can report their location coordinates to the game computer, players may use such utensils in the game. For example, a player might appear to strike the aforesaid virtual dinosaur with the player's sword utensil. [0016]
  • In some particular embodiments, the locations of the players and their actions are incorporated into the game, interact in real time with virtual game objects, such as computer generated dinosaurs, and such interactions and other game objects are displayed in a semitransparent heads-up display which enables the real world to be the backdrop for the game. [0017]
  • In other particular embodiments, the player could play against one or more physical players viewed directly via such semi-transparent heads-up displays, but who appear to be mixed into or otherwise superimposed upon the computer-generated game environments which are transmitted to the players' computers for display via their heads-up displays. The wireless computers may be capable of receiving voice commands via microphones attached to the heads-up displays. In one embodiment, the players could request to play a game in which voice commands are used exclusively. [0018]
  • Gaming object data as described above include video data, such as perspectives, sizes and the like. Further embodiments of the inventive method include additional gaming object data such as audio, tactile and olfactory information. In specific embodiments, one or more scent reservoirs, which are carried, for example, in a headset or other apparatus worn by a player, can be triggered in response to gaming object data generated by the gaming program. [0019]

Claims (6)

What is claimed is:
1. A method of location-based gaming comprising the steps of:
a) engaging a program to play a game,
b) determining the location of a target object,
c) providing the location of the target object to a central location,
d) obtaining a data file pertaining to an object at the location of the target object, and
e) generating gaming object data relative to the location of the target object.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein in step a) the game is downloaded into a player's mobile computing device.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein in step b) the target object is a second player.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein in step b) the target object is selected from the group consisting of a physical object and a location in physical space.
5. The method of claim 2 wherein the computing device comprises a locating element that provides the player's location and orientation.
6. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of equipping a physical game tool with location sensing and transmitting means, determining the location of the physical game tool and providing the location of the physical game tool to the central location.
US10/461,171 2002-06-14 2003-06-13 Method, system and apparatus for location based gaming Abandoned US20040058732A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/461,171 US20040058732A1 (en) 2002-06-14 2003-06-13 Method, system and apparatus for location based gaming
US11/804,054 US7946919B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2007-05-15 Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US13/068,892 US8292735B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2011-05-21 Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US13/609,380 US8517831B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2012-09-11 Methods and system for location-based gaming utilizing a physical game tool

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US38970002P 2002-06-14 2002-06-14
US10/461,171 US20040058732A1 (en) 2002-06-14 2003-06-13 Method, system and apparatus for location based gaming

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/804,054 Continuation US7946919B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2007-05-15 Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20040058732A1 true US20040058732A1 (en) 2004-03-25

Family

ID=31997312

Family Applications (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/461,171 Abandoned US20040058732A1 (en) 2002-06-14 2003-06-13 Method, system and apparatus for location based gaming
US11/804,054 Expired - Lifetime US7946919B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2007-05-15 Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US13/068,892 Expired - Lifetime US8292735B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2011-05-21 Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US13/609,380 Expired - Lifetime US8517831B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2012-09-11 Methods and system for location-based gaming utilizing a physical game tool

Family Applications After (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/804,054 Expired - Lifetime US7946919B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2007-05-15 Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US13/068,892 Expired - Lifetime US8292735B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2011-05-21 Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US13/609,380 Expired - Lifetime US8517831B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2012-09-11 Methods and system for location-based gaming utilizing a physical game tool

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (4) US20040058732A1 (en)

Cited By (35)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2005114472A1 (en) * 2004-05-18 2005-12-01 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Method of data synchronization
US20060105838A1 (en) * 2004-11-16 2006-05-18 Mullen Jeffrey D Location-based games and augmented reality systems
US20060284789A1 (en) * 2003-09-02 2006-12-21 Mullen Jeffrey D Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
EP1758412A1 (en) * 2004-10-30 2007-02-28 Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Game system, game platform and method for applying position information in the game
US20070225077A1 (en) * 2002-06-14 2007-09-27 Piccionelli Gregory A Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US7435179B1 (en) * 2004-11-15 2008-10-14 Sprint Spectrum L.P. Location-based authorization of gaming action in wireless communication gaming devices
US20090149250A1 (en) * 2007-12-07 2009-06-11 Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab Dynamic gaming environment
US20110028220A1 (en) * 2009-07-28 2011-02-03 Reiche Iii Paul Gps related video game
US20120244945A1 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-09-27 Brian Kolo Methods and systems for utilizing global positioning information with an online game
US20120264518A1 (en) * 2011-04-12 2012-10-18 Rouille David W Video game including user determined location information
US8968099B1 (en) 2012-11-01 2015-03-03 Google Inc. System and method for transporting virtual objects in a parallel reality game
US20150163473A1 (en) * 2012-07-11 2015-06-11 Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Image generating device and image generating method
US9128789B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2015-09-08 Google Inc. Executing cross-cutting concerns for client-server remote procedure calls
US9226106B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2015-12-29 Niantic, Inc. Systems and methods for filtering communication within a location-based game
US9539498B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-01-10 Niantic, Inc. Mapping real world actions to a virtual world associated with a location-based game
US9545565B1 (en) 2013-10-31 2017-01-17 Niantic, Inc. Regulating and scoring player interactions within a virtual world associated with a location-based parallel reality game
US9604131B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-03-28 Niantic, Inc. Systems and methods for verifying player proximity within a location-based game
US9621635B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-04-11 Niantic, Inc. Using side channels in remote procedure calls to return information in an interactive environment
US9669296B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-06-06 Niantic, Inc. Linking real world activities with a parallel reality game
US9669293B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-06-06 Niantic, Inc. Game data validation
US9782668B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-10-10 Niantic, Inc. Placement of virtual elements in a virtual world associated with a location-based parallel reality game
US9958934B1 (en) 2006-05-01 2018-05-01 Jeffrey D. Mullen Home and portable augmented reality and virtual reality video game consoles
US10051457B2 (en) 2007-07-27 2018-08-14 Intertrust Technologies Corporation Content publishing systems and methods
US10369451B2 (en) 2012-07-05 2019-08-06 Golfzondeca, Inc. Golf GPS device with automatic hole recognition and playing hole selection
US10463953B1 (en) 2013-07-22 2019-11-05 Niantic, Inc. Detecting and preventing cheating in a location-based game
US10717005B2 (en) 2017-07-22 2020-07-21 Niantic, Inc. Validating a player's real-world location using activity within a parallel reality game
US10846941B2 (en) 2002-10-16 2020-11-24 Frances Barbaro Altieri Interactive virtual thematic environment
US11348410B2 (en) * 2005-07-08 2022-05-31 Cfph, Llc System and method for peer-to-peer wireless gaming
US11392636B2 (en) 2013-10-17 2022-07-19 Nant Holdings Ip, Llc Augmented reality position-based service, methods, and systems
US11504622B1 (en) * 2021-08-17 2022-11-22 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for generating virtual encounters in virtual games
US11593539B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2023-02-28 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for facilitating virtual vehicle operation based on real-world vehicle operation data
US11691084B2 (en) 2020-01-20 2023-07-04 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for training and applying virtual occurrences to a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips
US11697069B1 (en) 2021-08-17 2023-07-11 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for presenting shared in-game objectives in virtual games
US11854153B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2023-12-26 Nant Holdings Ip, Llc Interference based augmented reality hosting platforms
US11896903B2 (en) 2021-08-17 2024-02-13 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for generating virtual experiences for a virtual game

Families Citing this family (33)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9178953B2 (en) * 2004-03-18 2015-11-03 Nokia Technologies Oy Position-based context awareness for mobile terminal device
JP3920904B1 (en) * 2006-02-23 2007-05-30 株式会社コナミデジタルエンタテインメント Communication game system, communication game control method, and program
WO2010096624A2 (en) * 2009-02-19 2010-08-26 Scvngr, Inc. Location-based advertising method and system
US20100331089A1 (en) * 2009-02-27 2010-12-30 Scvngr, Inc. Computer-implemented method and system for generating and managing customized interactive multiplayer location-based mobile games
US8355948B2 (en) 2009-05-05 2013-01-15 Groupon, Inc. System and methods for discount retailing
US8650072B2 (en) 2009-05-05 2014-02-11 Groupon, Inc. System and methods for providing location based discount retailing
US8301495B2 (en) 2009-05-05 2012-10-30 Groupon, Inc. System and methods for discount retailing
US20120129590A1 (en) * 2010-06-21 2012-05-24 Brian Morrisroe System and Method for Interactive Location-Based Gameplay
JP5377537B2 (en) * 2011-02-10 2013-12-25 株式会社エヌ・ティ・ティ・ドコモ Object display device, object display method, and object display program
US8649803B1 (en) 2011-05-03 2014-02-11 Kristan Lisa Hamill Interactive tracking virtual world system
KR101581525B1 (en) 2011-09-22 2015-12-30 엠파이어 테크놀로지 디벨롭먼트 엘엘씨 Matching sponsored game content to location by genre and playability
US8678931B2 (en) * 2012-01-17 2014-03-25 Hyung Gyu Oh Location-based online games for mobile devices and in-game advertising
US10147130B2 (en) 2012-09-27 2018-12-04 Groupon, Inc. Online ordering for in-shop service
US10664876B1 (en) 2013-06-20 2020-05-26 Groupon, Inc. Method and apparatus for promotion template generation
US10304091B1 (en) 2012-04-30 2019-05-28 Groupon, Inc. Deal generation using point-of-sale systems and related methods
US10664861B1 (en) 2012-03-30 2020-05-26 Groupon, Inc. Generating promotion offers and providing analytics data
US9996859B1 (en) 2012-03-30 2018-06-12 Groupon, Inc. Method, apparatus, and computer readable medium for providing a self-service interface
US10192243B1 (en) 2013-06-10 2019-01-29 Groupon, Inc. Method and apparatus for determining promotion pricing parameters
US10255620B1 (en) 2013-06-27 2019-04-09 Groupon, Inc. Fine print builder
US10304093B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2019-05-28 Groupon, Inc. Method, apparatus, and computer readable medium for providing a self-service interface
US11386461B2 (en) 2012-04-30 2022-07-12 Groupon, Inc. Deal generation using point-of-sale systems and related methods
US9304652B1 (en) 2012-12-21 2016-04-05 Intellifect Incorporated Enhanced system and method for providing a virtual space
US10743732B2 (en) 2013-06-07 2020-08-18 Intellifect Incorporated System and method for presenting user progress on physical figures
US9836806B1 (en) 2013-06-07 2017-12-05 Intellifect Incorporated System and method for presenting user progress on physical figures
US9901825B2 (en) 2013-08-09 2018-02-27 Legacy Game Systems Llc System, apparatus, and method of monitoring interactions
US9694291B2 (en) * 2013-08-09 2017-07-04 Legacy Game Systems Llc System and method for interactive role-play game support
EP2886902B1 (en) 2013-12-20 2016-12-07 Brembo SGL Carbon Ceramic Brakes GmbH Connecting means for brake disc assembly
US9728097B2 (en) 2014-08-19 2017-08-08 Intellifect Incorporated Wireless communication between physical figures to evidence real-world activity and facilitate development in real and virtual spaces
WO2016070192A1 (en) * 2014-10-31 2016-05-06 LyteShot Inc. Interactive gaming using wearable optical devices
WO2017180667A1 (en) * 2016-04-11 2017-10-19 Jesus Perea-Ochoa Method and system of playing game through communication tool
EP3577576A1 (en) * 2017-03-08 2019-12-11 Google LLC Playability service application programming interface
JP7087034B2 (en) * 2020-09-11 2022-06-20 株式会社スクウェア・エニックス Video game processing program and video game processing system
JP7089005B2 (en) * 2020-11-27 2022-06-21 株式会社スクウェア・エニックス Video game processing program and video game processing system

Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6320495B1 (en) * 2000-03-24 2001-11-20 Peter Sporgis Treasure hunt game utilizing GPS equipped wireless communications devices
US20020006825A1 (en) * 2000-07-11 2002-01-17 Makoto Suzuki Game system
US20020111201A1 (en) * 2001-02-13 2002-08-15 Lang Brook W. Location-based game system
US20020147049A1 (en) * 2001-04-10 2002-10-10 Carter Russell O. Location based mobile wagering system
US20020184653A1 (en) * 2001-02-02 2002-12-05 Pierce Matthew D. Services based on position location using broadcast digital television signals
US20030036428A1 (en) * 2001-08-20 2003-02-20 Christian Aasland Method and apparatus for implementing multiplayer PDA games
US6530841B2 (en) * 2001-06-26 2003-03-11 Cutlass, Inc. Electronic tag game
US6561809B1 (en) * 2000-07-17 2003-05-13 Battlepaint, Inc. Virtual battlefield simulator system and method
US20030144047A1 (en) * 2002-01-31 2003-07-31 Peter Sprogis Treasure hunt game utilizing wireless communications devices and location positioning technology
US20030224855A1 (en) * 2002-05-31 2003-12-04 Robert Cunningham Optimizing location-based mobile gaming applications
US20050049022A1 (en) * 2003-09-02 2005-03-03 Mullen Jeffrey D. Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices

Family Cites Families (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2278196A (en) * 1993-05-18 1994-11-23 William Michael Frederi Taylor Information system using GPS
US6042490A (en) * 1996-07-26 2000-03-28 Lenhart; Christopher W. Systems and methods of playing games in three dimensions
US6266614B1 (en) * 1997-12-24 2001-07-24 Wendell Alumbaugh Travel guide
US6288704B1 (en) * 1999-06-08 2001-09-11 Vega, Vista, Inc. Motion detection and tracking system to control navigation and display of object viewers
US6524189B1 (en) * 1999-07-09 2003-02-25 Nokia Corporation Multi-player game system using mobile telephone and game unit
US6287200B1 (en) * 1999-12-15 2001-09-11 Nokia Corporation Relative positioning and virtual objects for mobile devices
IL135493A0 (en) * 2000-04-05 2003-06-24 Rafael Armament Dev Authority Tracking device and system for simulated combat and related civilian applications
WO2002020111A2 (en) * 2000-09-07 2002-03-14 Omnisky Corporation Coexistent interaction between a virtual character and the real world
JP2002273035A (en) * 2001-03-16 2002-09-24 Namco Ltd Game device using location detecting device, and storage medium
JP2002273034A (en) * 2001-03-16 2002-09-24 Namco Ltd Game device using location detecting device, and storage medium
US6863610B2 (en) * 2002-04-09 2005-03-08 Utstarcom, Inc. Wireless gaming system using standard cellular telephones
US20040058732A1 (en) 2002-06-14 2004-03-25 Piccionelli Gregory A. Method, system and apparatus for location based gaming
US20040164897A1 (en) * 2003-02-24 2004-08-26 Simon Treadwell Apparatus and method for recording real time movements and experiences for subsequent replay in a virtual reality domain
US7435179B1 (en) * 2004-11-15 2008-10-14 Sprint Spectrum L.P. Location-based authorization of gaming action in wireless communication gaming devices
US8795084B2 (en) * 2007-03-16 2014-08-05 Jason S Bell Location-based multiplayer gaming platform

Patent Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6320495B1 (en) * 2000-03-24 2001-11-20 Peter Sporgis Treasure hunt game utilizing GPS equipped wireless communications devices
US20020006825A1 (en) * 2000-07-11 2002-01-17 Makoto Suzuki Game system
US6561809B1 (en) * 2000-07-17 2003-05-13 Battlepaint, Inc. Virtual battlefield simulator system and method
US20020184653A1 (en) * 2001-02-02 2002-12-05 Pierce Matthew D. Services based on position location using broadcast digital television signals
US20020111201A1 (en) * 2001-02-13 2002-08-15 Lang Brook W. Location-based game system
US20020147049A1 (en) * 2001-04-10 2002-10-10 Carter Russell O. Location based mobile wagering system
US6530841B2 (en) * 2001-06-26 2003-03-11 Cutlass, Inc. Electronic tag game
US20030036428A1 (en) * 2001-08-20 2003-02-20 Christian Aasland Method and apparatus for implementing multiplayer PDA games
US20030144047A1 (en) * 2002-01-31 2003-07-31 Peter Sprogis Treasure hunt game utilizing wireless communications devices and location positioning technology
US20030224855A1 (en) * 2002-05-31 2003-12-04 Robert Cunningham Optimizing location-based mobile gaming applications
US20050049022A1 (en) * 2003-09-02 2005-03-03 Mullen Jeffrey D. Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices

Cited By (78)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8517831B2 (en) 2002-06-14 2013-08-27 Koletry Processing L.L.C. Methods and system for location-based gaming utilizing a physical game tool
US8292735B2 (en) * 2002-06-14 2012-10-23 Koletry Processing L.L.C. Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US20110230264A1 (en) * 2002-06-14 2011-09-22 Piccionelli Gregory A Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US20070225077A1 (en) * 2002-06-14 2007-09-27 Piccionelli Gregory A Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US7946919B2 (en) * 2002-06-14 2011-05-24 Piccionelli Gregory A Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US10991165B2 (en) 2002-10-16 2021-04-27 Frances Barbaro Altieri Interactive virtual thematic environment
US10846941B2 (en) 2002-10-16 2020-11-24 Frances Barbaro Altieri Interactive virtual thematic environment
US10967270B2 (en) * 2003-09-02 2021-04-06 Jeffrey David Mullen Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
US20060284789A1 (en) * 2003-09-02 2006-12-21 Mullen Jeffrey D Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
US20080015024A1 (en) * 2003-09-02 2008-01-17 Mullen Jeffrey D Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
US9662582B2 (en) * 2003-09-02 2017-05-30 Jeffrey D. Mullen Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
US20070281766A1 (en) * 2003-09-02 2007-12-06 Mullen Jeffrey D Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
US10974151B2 (en) 2003-09-02 2021-04-13 Jeffrey D Mullen Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
US11033821B2 (en) 2003-09-02 2021-06-15 Jeffrey D. Mullen Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on location enabled devices
US20070281765A1 (en) * 2003-09-02 2007-12-06 Mullen Jeffrey D Systems and methods for location based games and employment of the same on locaton enabled devices
US8762578B2 (en) 2004-05-18 2014-06-24 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Method of data synchronization
WO2005114472A1 (en) * 2004-05-18 2005-12-01 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Method of data synchronization
EP1758412A1 (en) * 2004-10-30 2007-02-28 Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Game system, game platform and method for applying position information in the game
US20070167237A1 (en) * 2004-10-30 2007-07-19 Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Game System, Game Platform, Game Server, Game User Terminal And Method For Applying Location Information In Game
EP1758412A4 (en) * 2004-10-30 2007-11-14 Huawei Tech Co Ltd Game system, game platform and method for applying position information in the game
US7435179B1 (en) * 2004-11-15 2008-10-14 Sprint Spectrum L.P. Location-based authorization of gaming action in wireless communication gaming devices
US8585476B2 (en) 2004-11-16 2013-11-19 Jeffrey D Mullen Location-based games and augmented reality systems
US9744448B2 (en) 2004-11-16 2017-08-29 Jeffrey David Mullen Location-based games and augmented reality systems
US20060105838A1 (en) * 2004-11-16 2006-05-18 Mullen Jeffrey D Location-based games and augmented reality systems
US9352216B2 (en) 2004-11-16 2016-05-31 Jeffrey D Mullen Location-based games and augmented reality systems
US10828559B2 (en) 2004-11-16 2020-11-10 Jeffrey David Mullen Location-based games and augmented reality systems
US10179277B2 (en) 2004-11-16 2019-01-15 Jeffrey David Mullen Location-based games and augmented reality systems
US20220284775A1 (en) * 2005-07-08 2022-09-08 Cfph, Llc System and method for peer-to-peer wireless gaming
US11348410B2 (en) * 2005-07-08 2022-05-31 Cfph, Llc System and method for peer-to-peer wireless gaming
US9958934B1 (en) 2006-05-01 2018-05-01 Jeffrey D. Mullen Home and portable augmented reality and virtual reality video game consoles
US10838485B2 (en) 2006-05-01 2020-11-17 Jeffrey D. Mullen Home and portable augmented reality and virtual reality game consoles
US11218866B2 (en) 2007-07-27 2022-01-04 Intertrust Technologies Corporation Content publishing systems and methods
US10051457B2 (en) 2007-07-27 2018-08-14 Intertrust Technologies Corporation Content publishing systems and methods
US10271197B2 (en) 2007-07-27 2019-04-23 Intertrust Technologies Corporation Content publishing systems and methods
US20090149250A1 (en) * 2007-12-07 2009-06-11 Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab Dynamic gaming environment
US11229845B2 (en) 2009-07-28 2022-01-25 Activision Publishing, Inc. GPS related video game
US20110028220A1 (en) * 2009-07-28 2011-02-03 Reiche Iii Paul Gps related video game
US10675543B2 (en) 2009-07-28 2020-06-09 Activision Publishing, Inc. GPS related video game
US20120244945A1 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-09-27 Brian Kolo Methods and systems for utilizing global positioning information with an online game
US11854153B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2023-12-26 Nant Holdings Ip, Llc Interference based augmented reality hosting platforms
US11869160B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2024-01-09 Nant Holdings Ip, Llc Interference based augmented reality hosting platforms
US20120264518A1 (en) * 2011-04-12 2012-10-18 Rouille David W Video game including user determined location information
US8715087B2 (en) * 2011-04-12 2014-05-06 David W. Rouille Video game including user determined location information
US11590403B2 (en) 2012-07-05 2023-02-28 GolfzonDeca Inc. Golf GPS device with hole recognition and hole selection
US10369451B2 (en) 2012-07-05 2019-08-06 Golfzondeca, Inc. Golf GPS device with automatic hole recognition and playing hole selection
US11045708B2 (en) 2012-07-05 2021-06-29 Golfzondeca, Inc. Golf GPS device with hole recognition and hole selection
US20150163473A1 (en) * 2012-07-11 2015-06-11 Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Image generating device and image generating method
US10410562B2 (en) * 2012-07-11 2019-09-10 Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. Image generating device and image generating method
US10130888B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2018-11-20 Niantic, Inc. Game data validation
US9782668B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-10-10 Niantic, Inc. Placement of virtual elements in a virtual world associated with a location-based parallel reality game
US10806998B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2020-10-20 Niantic, Inc. Using side channels in remote procedure calls to return information in an interactive environment
US9539498B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-01-10 Niantic, Inc. Mapping real world actions to a virtual world associated with a location-based game
US10646783B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2020-05-12 Niantic, Inc. Linking real world activities with a parallel reality game
US9669296B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-06-06 Niantic, Inc. Linking real world activities with a parallel reality game
US9621635B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-04-11 Niantic, Inc. Using side channels in remote procedure calls to return information in an interactive environment
US10300395B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2019-05-28 Niantic, Inc. Systems and methods for filtering communication within a location-based game
US9604131B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-03-28 Niantic, Inc. Systems and methods for verifying player proximity within a location-based game
US9723107B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-08-01 Niantic, Inc. Executing cross-cutting concerns for client-server remote procedure calls
US9226106B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2015-12-29 Niantic, Inc. Systems and methods for filtering communication within a location-based game
US9128789B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2015-09-08 Google Inc. Executing cross-cutting concerns for client-server remote procedure calls
US11167205B2 (en) 2012-07-31 2021-11-09 Niantic, Inc. Placement of virtual elements in a virtual world associated with a location-based parallel reality game
US9669293B1 (en) 2012-07-31 2017-06-06 Niantic, Inc. Game data validation
US8968099B1 (en) 2012-11-01 2015-03-03 Google Inc. System and method for transporting virtual objects in a parallel reality game
US10912989B2 (en) 2013-07-22 2021-02-09 Niantic, Inc. Detecting and preventing cheating in a location-based game
US10463953B1 (en) 2013-07-22 2019-11-05 Niantic, Inc. Detecting and preventing cheating in a location-based game
US11392636B2 (en) 2013-10-17 2022-07-19 Nant Holdings Ip, Llc Augmented reality position-based service, methods, and systems
US10471358B1 (en) 2013-10-31 2019-11-12 Niantic, Inc. Regulating and scoring player interactions within a virtual world associated with a location-based parallel reality game
US9545565B1 (en) 2013-10-31 2017-01-17 Niantic, Inc. Regulating and scoring player interactions within a virtual world associated with a location-based parallel reality game
US11541315B2 (en) 2017-07-22 2023-01-03 Niantic, Inc. Validating a player's real-world location using activity within a parallel-reality game
US10717005B2 (en) 2017-07-22 2020-07-21 Niantic, Inc. Validating a player's real-world location using activity within a parallel reality game
US11593539B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2023-02-28 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for facilitating virtual vehicle operation based on real-world vehicle operation data
US11691084B2 (en) 2020-01-20 2023-07-04 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for training and applying virtual occurrences to a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips
US11707683B2 (en) 2020-01-20 2023-07-25 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for training and applying virtual occurrences and granting in-game resources to a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips
US11857866B2 (en) 2020-01-20 2024-01-02 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for training and applying virtual occurrences with modifiable outcomes to a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips
US11697069B1 (en) 2021-08-17 2023-07-11 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for presenting shared in-game objectives in virtual games
US11504622B1 (en) * 2021-08-17 2022-11-22 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for generating virtual encounters in virtual games
US11896903B2 (en) 2021-08-17 2024-02-13 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for generating virtual experiences for a virtual game
US11918913B2 (en) 2021-08-17 2024-03-05 BlueOwl, LLC Systems and methods for generating virtual encounters in virtual games

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US7946919B2 (en) 2011-05-24
US8292735B2 (en) 2012-10-23
US20110230264A1 (en) 2011-09-22
US20130005484A1 (en) 2013-01-03
US20070225077A1 (en) 2007-09-27
US8517831B2 (en) 2013-08-27

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7946919B2 (en) Method, system and apparatus for location-based gaming
US8880606B2 (en) Multi-modal, geo-tempo communications systems
JP6281496B2 (en) Information processing apparatus, terminal apparatus, information processing method, and program
JP6281495B2 (en) Information processing apparatus, terminal apparatus, information processing method, and program
Henrysson et al. Face to face collaborative AR on mobile phones
US5659691A (en) Virtual reality network with selective distribution and updating of data to reduce bandwidth requirements
US8261199B2 (en) Breakpoint identification and presentation in virtual worlds
US20150070274A1 (en) Methods and systems for determining 6dof location and orientation of head-mounted display and associated user movements
JP2014149712A (en) Information processing device, terminal device, information processing method, and program
CN102884490A (en) Maintaining multiple views on a shared stable virtual space
CN105188516A (en) System and method for augmented and virtual reality
GB2401800A (en) Gaming environment including portable transaction devices
JP2001265898A (en) Relative positioning and virtual object of mobile device
US20100131535A1 (en) Geographic location identify system with open-type identifier and method for generating the identifier
CN107229706A (en) A kind of information acquisition method and its device based on augmented reality
JP7247260B2 (en) DATA PROCESSING PROGRAM, DATA PROCESSING METHOD, AND DATA PROCESSING APPARATUS
JP6514376B1 (en) Game program, method, and information processing apparatus
Spear Virtual reality: patent review
CN109716395A (en) The keeping object stability in virtual reality
KR20130050061A (en) Method for providing game uniting on-line with off-line based on location based service
CN116407838A (en) Display control method, display control system and storage medium in game
CN116700492A (en) Touch feedback method and device, augmented reality equipment and electronic equipment
JP2011186533A (en) Information processing apparatus and program
Pellerin et al. Soundpark: Towards highly collaborative game support in a ubiquitous computing architecture
Thomas A virtual musical instrument exhibit for a science centre.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION

AS Assignment

Owner name: KOLETRY PROCESSING L.L.C., DELAWARE

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GEOCOM, LLC;REEL/FRAME:027782/0262

Effective date: 20120126

AS Assignment

Owner name: FACEBOOK, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 88 LLC;REEL/FRAME:048125/0419

Effective date: 20180917

AS Assignment

Owner name: META PLATFORMS, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:FACEBOOK, INC.;REEL/FRAME:059855/0940

Effective date: 20211028

AS Assignment

Owner name: INTELLECTUAL VENTURES ASSETS 88 LLC, DELAWARE

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GULA CONSULTING LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY;REEL/FRAME:059938/0072

Effective date: 20180810

Owner name: GULA CONSULTING LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, DELAWARE

Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:KOLETRY PROCESSING L.L.C.;REEL/FRAME:059938/0044

Effective date: 20150826

Owner name: GEOCOM, LLC, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PICCIONELLI, GREGORY A.;REEL/FRAME:059938/0040

Effective date: 20100519