Electronic word game
OwnerEdward Hall, James Hand +2inventors
InventorsEdward Hall, James Hand, Howard Dittmer, Walter Herbst
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Methods and apparatus for an improved automated version of a word game that incorporates game play methodology into a central controller and communicates game play information to the players through a game console that provides each player with an input pod for communication with the microprocessor. The microprocessor incorporates features including a timer, scoring system, random letter generator and a random element generator so as to increase ease of use and speed up game play. The microprocessor communicates information to the players through a variety of lights that are selectively illuminated as well as a self-contained speaker for communicating audible information to the players.
Claims22
An electronic game console comprising:
- a console body having an inner display portion and an outer perimeter portion, the inner display portion having a plurality of illuminating display elements and the outer perimeter portion having a plurality of communication pods;
- and
- a controller operatively connected to the plurality of illuminating display elements and the plurality of communication pods;
- wherein the controller includes a game play algorithm and a random element generator such that the controller controls a play mode for the electronic game console and directs the plurality of illuminating display elements to selectively illuminate based on the play mode;
- and
- wherein the communication pods provide a player input to the controller such that the controller can identify a successful player.
A method for playing an electronic word game comprising:
- generating a game play mode using a random element generator within a controller, the game play mode determining characteristics of a successful answer;
- interfacing with the controller by pressing a player specific pushbutton to indicate when a player has satisfied the characteristic of a successful answer,
- recording a score for the successful answer, the score being dependent upon the game play mode selected by the controller;
- tracking individual scores for each player with the controller;
- and
- identifying a game winner with the controller when a player achieves a score equal to or greater than a winning score.
An electronic game console comprising:
- means for randomly generating a game play mode with a controller;
- means for interfacing with the controller to indicate when a player has satisfied the characteristic of a successful answer,
- means for recording a score for the successful answer, the score being dependent upon the game play mode generated by the controller;
- and
- means for tracking individual scores for each player.
An electronic game console comprising:
- a console body having a display portion, a speaker and an outer perimeter portion, the inner display portion having a display element and the outer perimeter portion having a plurality of communication pods;
- and
- a controller operatively connected to the display portion, the speaker and the plurality of communication pods;
- wherein the controller includes a random element generator for selecting a letter, a number and a play mode for a game play round, the letter, number and play mode being communicated though the inner display portion;
- and
- wherein the communication pods provide a player input to the controller such that the controller can identify a successful player for the game play round.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.