CN101043923A - System and method for providing a card tournament using one or more electronic card tables - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides an electric card table for supplying the timed electric card game for multiple players and the method. An electric card game has at least a game round. In each round, each player can play once, and each round has a relevant response time. If the player dose not responds in the response time, the acquiescent action can be done automatically.

Description

Electronic poker table and method for providing timed electronic poker game

related application

[0001] The current application is a continuation in part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/939,772 filed on September 13, 2004, and requires U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/610,262 filed on September 16, 2004 priority. The above two patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

technical field

[0002] The present invention relates generally to an electronic poker table and method, and more particularly, to a timed electronic poker game.

Background technique

[0003] Gambling is an increasingly popular form of entertainment. Gambling, specifically, gambling requiring luck and skill in which one or more players participate and bets are placed on the outcome, which may be played in a variety of ways: in a casino or other gathering place, or in a on the internet. Of the various ways in which it is possible to play, many are played with cards. Of these, poker can prove to be the most popular.

[0004] Traditionally, poker is played at a table by several participants betting on a series of playing cards from a deck of 52, betting either in bills, coins or chips. A deck of cards consists of four suits, 13 cards of each suit. This form of poker requires a human dealer to coordinate the game, including dealing cards, placing bets, folding cards, and so on. One of the problems with traditional poker is that the dealer can make mistakes. In "social" card games, especially poker, the players take turns being the dealer, but in officially licensed commercial gambling establishments, such as casinos, the dealer is usually an employee who does not play the game. In this case, dealer training and memory present another problem with traditional poker games.

[0005] Another problem associated with traditional poker games is pace. One method that gaming organizations use to compensate hosting games is through commissions. The rake is a percentage of each game, which is withheld and retained by the game organization. Therefore, the amount of compensation for gaming establishments is limited by the pace, that is, the number of games played per hour.

[0006] An alternative form of gambling, particularly involving poker, has become popular on the Internet. Internet gambling has been quite successful because of the many options it offers players. In particular, Internet gambling is so fast and convenient that almost any computer with an Internet connection can be used to register, place bets, and pay, usually through payment services such as PayPal.

[0007] Video poker or other poker games may also be provided by a stand-alone machine similar to a slot machine.

[0008] A major disadvantage of Internet and stand-alone type games is the lack of a human element. Many people enjoy playing poker with other players, in part because of the drama associated with "live" play. Undoubtedly, when human competitors face each other directly, high levels of competition exist. During the game, experienced players try to carefully devise strategies and judge other players' intentions from their actions and play styles in order to make themselves more competitive.

[0009] Electronic card games, such as electronic poker games, have been provided that allow players to compete against other players but eliminate the dealer and the physical cards.

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the problems set forth above.

Contents of the invention

[0011] In a first aspect of the invention, an electronic poker table providing a timed electronic poker game for a plurality of players is provided. The electronic poker table has a tabletop, display devices and a gaming computer. The card table has a game surface, and a plurality of display devices are arranged around the table top, and each display device implements an electronic player interaction area, and each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with one of the plurality of players. to interact. The game computer is connected with a plurality of electronic player interaction areas, processes an electronic card game composed of electronic cards, displays the electronic cards in the electronic player interaction area, and manages the electronic card game. An electronic card game has at least one game round, including at least one round for each player. Each round has some allowed actions and associated response times. The game computer provides the player with an opportunity to choose an allowed action each round, and if the player does not respond within the relevant response time, the computer automatically chooses a default action.

[0012] In a second aspect of the invention, an electronic poker table providing a timed electronic poker game for multiple players is provided. The electronic poker table has a table top, a central display area, multiple touch screen display devices and a gaming computer. The tabletop has a gaming surface. The central display area is located in the center of the desktop and displays information for the player. Multiple touch screen display devices are located around the perimeter of the table. Each display device implements an electronic player interaction area, and each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with one of the plurality of players. The game computer is connected with a plurality of electronic player interaction areas and the central display area to process a round of electronic card games composed of electronic cards, display electronic cards in the electronic player interaction area and/or in the central display area, and use electronic Cards and electronic chips are used to manage this electronic poker game, to determine the winner from among the players, and to reward the bets to the winner at the end of the hand. An electronic card game has at least one game round, including at least one round for each player. Each round has some allowed actions and associated response times. The game computer provides the player with an opportunity to choose an allowed action each round, and if the player does not respond within the relevant response time, the computer automatically chooses a default action.

[0013] In a third aspect of the invention, a method of providing a timed electronic poker game on an electronic poker table is provided. The electronic poker table has a table top, touch screen displays and a gaming computer. The tabletop has a gaming surface. Multiple touch screen display devices are located around the perimeter of the table. Each display device implements an electronic player interaction area, and each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with one of the plurality of players. The gaming computer is connected to a plurality of electronic player interaction areas and a central display area, and the method includes the steps of processing a hand of an electronic poker game consisting of electronic cards. An electronic card game has at least one game round, including at least one round for each player. Each round has some allowed actions and associated response times. This method involves administering an electronic poker game with electronic cards by the gaming computer, by providing the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action in each round by the gaming computer, if the player does not respond within the relevant response time, the computer automatically selects a Default behavior.

Description of drawings

[0014] Other advantages of the present invention will be better understood and more readily appreciated when reference is made to the following drawings and to the following detailed description.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a system for providing electronic poker games on one or more electronic poker tables, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a simplified illustration of the table top of the electronic poker table of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a simplified illustration of the table top of the electronic poker table of FIG. 1, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the system of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a second block diagram of the system of FIG. 1, including electronic poker table components, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a graphical representation of an electronic poker table according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a top view of the electronic poker table of FIG. 6.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of modules of the electronic poker table of FIG. 6, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a first screen shot displayed on the electronic player interaction area of the system of FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a second screen shot displayed on the electronic player interaction area of the system of FIG. 1, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 11 is an illustration of an electronic player interaction area in the system of FIG. 1, embodied on a handheld device.

[0026] FIG. 12 is an illustration of the front and back of an electronic playing card.

[0027] FIG. 13A is a block diagram of the software components of the system of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 13B is a simplified illustration of a system for providing electronic poker games, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a timed electronic poker game according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed ways

[0030] Referring to the drawings, in operation, the present invention generally relates to a system 10 and method for providing and relating to electronic poker games, such as electronic poker. With particular reference to FIG. 1 , the system 10 is designed to be suitable for use in a gaming environment, such as a casino 12 . Typically, such a gaming environment 12 is a dedicated or designated area within a casino 12, such as a poker room or poker area 14, which is enclosed by, for example, a fence 16. Although the foregoing mentions one possible implementation or location in which system 10 may be used, the present invention is not limited to any such location or implementation. Additional details of the system can be found in U.S. Patent Serial No. N/A (File No.60,667-007), N/A (File No.60,667-008), N/A (File No.60,667-009), N/A ( File No.60,667-010), N/A(File No.60,667-011), N/A(File No.60,667-012), N/A(File No.60,667-013), N/A(File No. .60,667-014), N/A(File No.60,667-015), N/A(File No.60,667-016), N/A(File No.60,667-017), N/A(File No.60,667 -018), N/A(File No.60,667-019), N/A(File No.60,667-020), N/A(File No.60,667-021), N/A(File No.60,667-022 ), N/A (File No.60,667-023), N/A (File No.60,667-024), N/A (File No.60,667-025), N/A (File No.60,667-026), N/A (File No.60,667-027), N/A (File No.60,667-028), N/A (File No.60,667-029), N/A (File No.60,667-030), N/ A (File No. 60,667-031), and N/A (File No. 60,667-032), which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the system 10 employs electronic chips and electronic gaming cards to provide an automated poker game to two or more players. In one aspect of the invention, no human being is required to act as a dealer. System 10 can handle all bookmaker functions.

[0032] The system 10 may be used to play all variations or versions of any poker game. However, for ease of discussion, the system 10 will be described as being suitable for use in implementing a poker game, such as Texas Hold'em.

[0033] In one aspect of the invention, the system 10 may handle assigning seats to players, providing electronic chips, accepting bets, and betting winning players. The system 10 electronically shuffles a set of electronic cards, distributes the electronic cards to the players, and distributes any common cards to the electronic card or poker table 18 . The system 10 can also handle betting, folding, and calling by players, and can also limit these actions based on the order of the players.

[0034] In another aspect of the invention, the card or poker tables 18 in the system 10 are networked, all connected to one or more servers (see below). The server may be used to enable and facilitate player tracking, ticket-in-ticket-out (cashless) betting, assigning players to seats at specific tables, playing games, table setup (including opening, closing, and modifying tables) parameters), and jackpots etc.

[0035] As shown in the exemplary embodiment, system 10 includes a plurality of electronic poker tables 18. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the system 10 includes five electronic poker tables 18, although the present invention is not limited to the number of electronic poker tables.

[0036] FIGS. 2 and 3 show schematic layouts of table tops 20 of poker tables 18 according to first and second embodiments of the present invention, respectively.

[0037] In the top view of tabletop 20 shown in FIG. 2, tabletop 20 includes a gaming surface 22, and a plurality of electronic player interaction areas 24. In the exemplary embodiment, the poker table 18 can seat up to 10 players simultaneously, and thus also includes 10 electronic player interaction areas 24A-24J.

[0038] In the top view of table top 20 shown in FIG. In the exemplary embodiment, the poker table 18 can seat up to 10 players simultaneously, and therefore includes 10 electronic player interaction areas 24 . The poker table 10 also includes a central or common display area (CDA) 26 .

[0039] In one embodiment, each electronic player interaction area 24 is used to deliver game information directly to the player assigned to a particular electronic player interaction area 24A-24J, and to implement a player user interface (see below) to complete the interaction or for player input. A central or common display area 26 is used to display information to all players.

[0040] For example, in one embodiment, the system 10 is used to play a version of the poker game called Texas Hold'em. In Texas Hold'em, each player is dealt a certain number of cards, say two, which are buckled on the table. These two cards are called the player's hole card 28. Some cards, three or five, are shown face up on the public display area 26 . These cards are called community 30s. The player's hand of cards therefore includes the player's hole card 28 and the community card 30. At the end of each round, the remaining players, regardless of any players, as long as the player with the highest poker hand is the winner of this round or this round.

[0041] In one aspect of the invention, the hole cards 28 are displayed face-down on the corresponding electronic player interaction area 24, and the community cards are displayed at the central display area 26. Hole cards 28 are displayed at a first predetermined ratio and community cards 30 are displayed at a second predetermined ratio. The first and second predetermined ratios may be expressed as ratios of a standard size of playing cards or a predetermined default size. In one embodiment, the first and second ratios are the same. In another embodiment, the first and second ratios are different. For example, the first and second ratios can be defined such that the community card 30 is displayed slightly larger than the hole card 28 .

[0042] Referring to FIG. 6, FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 in one embodiment, the electronic player interaction area 24 is implemented using different display devices, such as a touch screen 32. Each display screen 32 may be housed in a removable module 34 .

[0043] Module 34 may comprise a full-featured computer. The computer includes a processor capable of running an operating system such as Windows XP or Windows CE, available from Microsoft Corporation located in Redmond, Washington, DC. In one embodiment, module 34 includes a card reader 36 for reading a player ID (not shown).

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, module 34 is mounted on table top 20 such that touch screen 32 is parallel to table top 20. However, touch screen 32 may be mounted at an angle to table top 20 . Alternatively, module 34 may be adjusted to provide touch screen 32 with an adjustable viewing angle.

[0045] In one embodiment, the central display area 26 is implemented by a separate display screen, such as an LCD or plasma monitor, or similar device.

[0046] The remaining table top may be covered with a cloth such as felt, or specifically green, blue or red felt. Logos, game information, or other information can be printed on the fabric.

[0047] In an alternative embodiment, electronic player interaction area 24 and central display area 26 may be implemented by a single display that covers a substantial portion of the desktop. Electronic player interaction area 24 and central display area 26 may be separated from the rest of desktop 20 by a virtual border. The area around the electronic player interaction area 24 and the central display area 26 can be used to simulate the surface of a standard poker table, for example a picture of a tablecloth (such as green felt) can be displayed. In addition, icons, game information, other information, advertisements, notifications, pictures, videos, or other information can be displayed, rotated, played in a loop, or only played a limited period of time on the desktop 20 and/or the electronic player interaction area 24. time.

[0048] As discussed below, the system 10 and poker table 18, while electronic, are designed to impart and maintain all the feel and atmosphere of a standard poker room that employs non-electronic poker tables. Each electronic poker table 18 is surrounded by several poker chairs 40 . The number of poker chairs 40 equals the number of electronic player interaction areas 24 on the poker table 18 .

[0049] With particular reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the poker table 18 is oval in shape to accommodate a maximum number of players. For example, the poker table 18 may be sized to seat up to 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 players, although the invention is not limited to any particular size poker table. As noted above, between the electronic player interaction area 24 and the central display area 26 (if present), the tabletop is covered with a tablecloth (eg, green felt or the like). The poker table includes one or more bases 42 to which one or more legs 44 are secured. Table legs 44 support the table top. A fence or bumper 46 surrounds the outer circumference of the table top 20 .

[0050] With particular reference to FIGS. 4 or 5 , the system 10 described above may include one or more electronic poker tables 18 . In one aspect of the invention, the electronic poker tables 18 are networked with each other using, for example, Ethernet 48 . One or more servers 50 may be used to provide the functionality of system 10 . For example, system 50 may be used to perform various functions, including but not limited to:

Start or close table 18 during a game;

data and player tracking;

non-cash bets;

Define and modify table parameters, including: open or close table 18, set poker games played on table 18, set betting parameters, etc.;

Define and manage bets, including room commissions such as rake;

define and manage accumulated bets;

Establish and manage queues for players and assign players seats in the queue and/or specific tables;

As well as setting up and managing poker tournaments, including assigning player seats, removing tables, and more.

[0051] With particular reference to FIG. 5, in one embodiment, each table 18 includes ten electronic player interaction areas 24 implemented in a computer-based module 34. Each module 34 is connected to a server 50 through a network 48 . Another computer 52 , such as a personal computer running Windows XP, may also be connected to server 50 via network 48 as shown. The primary function of the PC 52 may be to control and drive the central display area 26.

[0052] In one embodiment, a server 50 runs a poker game on each table 18. The basic function of the module 34 is to operate the electronic player interaction area 24 to display and operate the user interface.

[0053] In another embodiment, a poker game or portion of a poker game may be performed or run by the module 34 and/or the computer 52.

[0054] In another aspect of the invention, the system 10 will implement a player account based cash in/cash out system. The system 10 will generate a user account for each player. Once an account is established for a player, the player is assigned a player card associated with a personal identification number or PIN. Once a player has been assigned a player card, their account can be topped up. Player cards are used to identify players at the table 18. The player may top-up his account by placing cash into a cash drawer, where the cash is accepted and loaded into the player's account, a printed receipt is given to the player, and the casino 12 retains the receipt. To bring electronic chips to the table 18, the player sits in a chair, swipes their player card, and enters their PIN. The system 10 notifies players of their account balances and allows players to convert all or a portion of their account balances into electronic chips to be brought into the game.

[0055] With particular reference to FIG. 13A, from a software perspective, the system 10 can be implemented using six program groups: a game engine 82, a table server 84, a table client 86, a player client 88, a table manager 90, and a cash drawer Manager 92. The card table server 84 realizes network communication, controls and authentication, and functions between different card tables (such as seat reservation, multi-table games). The game engine 82 manages the electronic poker game and is responsible for all game functions such as electronic game card generation, dealing, placing bets, determining winners, and awarding prizes. The desktop client 86 is a graphical control for the central display area 26 . The player client 90 implements the user interface of the electronic player interaction area 24, as well as the logic to capture player input and communicate from the player input to the desktop client server. The desktop manager 88 includes a user interface for setting player, network, and game parameters, for starting, pausing, and terminating games, and for monitoring game activity and responding to system or player-generated alerts. The cash basket manager 92 provides the ability to generate and top-up player accounts to generate player cards.

[0056] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, each electronic player interaction area 24 implements a player interface 54. The player interface 54 may be implemented on the desktop 20 (see above), or in the module 34 . In another embodiment, player interface 54 may be implemented on a handheld device 58, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA).

[0057] The player interface 54 may be graphical (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) or may take other forms, such as a simple text format. In one embodiment, the electronic player interaction area 24 provides the player with the option to choose between several player interfaces 54, such as a graphical representation of the electronic poker table 56 or a text interface.

[0058] Returning to Figures 9 and 10, in one embodiment. The player interface 54 includes a graphical representation of a poker table 56 . Each player in the poker game may be represented by a user image or icon 62, which may list their names and stakes. The total stake for the current hand may be displayed in the middle of the poker table 56 by stacks of chips 64 and/or numbers 66 representing the current stake value. The stakes placed by each player may be represented by stacks of chips 68 and/or numbers 70 adjacent to their user icons 62 .

[0059] The player interface 54 may also include a series of player selection buttons 72 and a series of game buttons 74. Player selection buttons 72 may include, for example, a sit down button 72A, a leave table button 72B, and a selection button 72C. In general, only one of the sit down button 72A and the leave table button 72B is active at any time. The selection button 72C allows the player to go to a selection menu or screen (not shown), where the player is allowed to modify certain parameters of the player interface 54, for example, to select one of two different formats of the player interface 54. A series of game buttons 74 allows the player to inform the system 10 of his in-game decisions during the game. The game buttons 74 may include a fold button 74A, a call button 74B, and a raise button 74C. Usually these only work when the player participates in the game. In one embodiment, button 72 is implemented on touch display device 32 . In an alternative embodiment, button 72 is implemented by a motorized switch or button (not shown).

[0060] In one embodiment, the player interface 54 may also include the community cards 30. Other information that may be displayed on the player interface includes, but is not limited to: a reminder of which player's turn it is, each player's total chip stack, cards shown by other players, and/or information to the player (such as an advertisement).

[0061] In another aspect of the invention, the player interface 54 includes a graphical representation of one or more electronic playing cards 76 (see FIG. 12). Each electronic playing card 76 has a front face 76A and a back face 76B. The back 76B of each card has the same identifying pattern or image so that the cards cannot be distinguished when viewing the back 76B. Electronic playing cards 76 are typically one of a set or deck of standard playing cards. Such a deck may be a standard of 52 cards, each card having a value. Card values have two components: the first component is a value from 2 to one of ACEs, and the second component is one of four suits (hearts, diamonds, spades, clubs). The value of each card is displayed on the face 76A of each playing card.

[0062] The graphic displayed on the back 76B of the playing card may be an icon, a random graphic (selected from a predetermined set of graphics), or may be an advertisement for the player. Patterns can include a video. In one embodiment, the patterns displayed on the back 76B of the playing card may cycle through a set of predetermined patterns. Patterns can also be selected by the user, who may be a player or an employee of the casino.

[0063] In one embodiment, the electronic playing cards or cards 76 are the player's hole cards in the electronic poker game. However, the electronic playing cards 76 can be used in any type of electronic card game in which preferably showing/hiding a player's cards is controllable. Thus, while the invention is described in the context of an electronic poker game (or, more specifically, a player's hole cards in Hold 'em style poker games), the invention is not limited to such card games.

[0064] When playing a poker game with real cards, in which a player's cards can be "taken down" and not revealed to any other players, the player can view his own cards and use a variety of ways to make his cards Not seen by other players. For example, a player can hold the cards close to their body, spreading them out and covering them with their hands so that only the player can see the front of the cards. Or the player can place the cards face down on the table, lift one side or a corner, and can see part of the front of the cards, while blocking the cards with their hands.

The controller can be a module 34, a personal computer 52, a handheld terminal 58, a server 50 or a combination thereof, and the controller controls the player interface 54, that is, controls are displayed on the player interface 54 on the electronic player interaction area 24. The message consists of detecting a touch to the touch screen display device 32 (when used) and interpreting the touch as a trigger or touch event (see below). As shown below, the controllers 24, 52, 58, 50 can control the display or masking (hiding) of a player's electronic game hole cards so that the players can control the display and view of their cards and keep them secret from other players. As if the player were playing with real cards, the player has the opportunity to block the cards with their hands before they are seen.

[0066] US Patent Application Serial No. 10/939,772 discloses a system and method for controllably revealing/covering a player's electronic game cards. This patent application was filed on September 13, 2004 and is incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] In one aspect of the invention, each electronic player interaction area is assigned to a player. Once a player is assigned to a particular seat at the poker table 18, the associated EPIA 24 can be set to an inactive or locked state, and the assigned player's name can be displayed. Once EPIA 24 is locked, assigned players must log into EPIA 24 (see below).

[0068] Once the player logs in, the EPIA 24 is activated, displaying the player interface 54. Additionally, now that the EPIA 24 is active, the player can enter the game being played at the table 12, or adjust/modify any possible options by activating the selection button 72C.

[0069] In one embodiment as discussed above, the EPIA 24 may be implemented using a stand-alone or modular computer 34. In one embodiment, modular computer 34 includes a display 32 , which may be a touch screen display 32 . The touch screen display 32 displays information (text and/or graphics) about the game play and implements buttons or selectable areas on the EPIA 24 for user input.

[0070] Players may log into the system 10 or table 18 through the EPIA 24. In one embodiment, players may log into the system 10 using a player tracking card. The player inserts his player tracking card into the card reader 36, or swipes the card over the card reader 36. The EPIA 24 may also require a PIN to be entered into an attached keypad, or a keypad implemented through the touch screen display device 32. Alternatively or additionally, players may log in using biometric parameters such as fingerprints, sensed by sensors and RFID cards or chips.

[0071] In one aspect of the invention, the EPIA 24 includes a sound generating device that is used to generate sounds that can be heard by players assigned to the EPIA 24. The sound generating means may be implemented by earpieces or earphones or by one or more speakers. Generated sounds can be categorized as system sounds or player sounds. System sounds include sounds that are intended or appropriate to be heard by everyone, including other players and non-players. Player voices include sounds that are intended to be heard by the player, but are not necessarily limited to what the player hears. For example, system sounds may include sounds imitating shuffling, dealing, chipping, or sounds related to winning a wager. Player sounds may include reminders or reminders that it is a player's turn, or if the game is timed, the remaining or elapsed time. A player-specific sound is a sound that can or should only be heard by a certain player, and can be an audible signal indicating the player's hole cards or the player's highest hand, or the probability of winning associated with the player's current hand.

[0072] In another aspect of the invention, the EPIA 24 may be implemented by a touch screen display device 32. The device 32 can be integrated in the same module as a computer. Alternatively, the touch screen device 32 may be a separate device controlled by a separate computer or computer 52 located at the poker table 18 or server 50 .

[0073] In many gaming environments 12, such as the poker room of a casino, a portion or percentage of the pot is earned by the casino running the poker game. This part of the wager is called a rake. In one embodiment, the amount of rake associated with the current wager is displayed on each EPIA 24. The rake may be displayed in dollar amounts or may include a graphical representation of electronic chips.

[0074] In one aspect of the invention, system 10 employs electronic chips and electronic playing cards. In one embodiment, the EPIA 24 may include a graphical representation of the chip and/or dollar amount to show each player at the table the remaining chip amount. Additionally, the EPIA 24 may include a graphical representation indicating the chip and/or dollar amount of the current total wager. The stakes may be displayed in the middle of the graphical representation of the poker table.

[0075] In one embodiment, each EPIA 24 may include a graphical representation of the community cards positioned in the middle of the graphical representation of the poker table. Graphical representations of the other players' cards may also be displayed (face down for the current hand, face up after the end of the hand).

[0076] As noted above, the system 10 may require players to log into an open EPIA 24, or into an EPIA 24 that has been assigned to them. Logging in can be done in a number of ways (see above). Once the player's identity is established, the player can access a player account and use the account balance to purchase chips. In addition, information about the player's play at the gaming table can be tracked and logged to the player's account.

[0077] The EPIA 24 may be provided with earphones or headsets to provide audio or other signals to the player (see above).

[0078] In one aspect of the invention, the sounds provided by the EPIA 24 are provided using simulated sounds (see above).

[0079] In one aspect of the invention, the system may use a cashless system such as ticket-in/ticket-out or "TITO" (see below).

[0080] In one embodiment, the system 10 requires each player to have a player account. The player account may have an associated account balance that includes a dollar amount based on money deposited by the player and/or any prizes they win (by playing poker or some other game). Once the player is identified by EPIA 24, the player can download a certain amount of dollars, buy chips to start the game.

[0081] Alternatively, a ticket (e.g., with a barcode), magnetic card, RFID card, or some other medium (collectively referred to as a TICKET), may be inserted into the EPIA 24, card table 18, or an electronic transaction terminal. The TICKET may have an associated value, may be printed and/or encoded on the ticket, or may be associated with the TICKET in the system 10 .

[0082] Additionally, once a player decides to leave the poker table 18, any remaining chips in their possession can be immediately converted back to dollars and deposited in their player account and/or generate a new TICKET.

[0083] In another aspect of the invention, each EPIA 24 may provide an indication of whose turn it is to act. If it is the turn of a player assigned to the EPIA 24, the EPIA 24 can provide an appropriate signal such as an icon (which can be located next to the player's name, or anywhere else on the EPIA 24), a sound (such as a beep or the tone of the music), and/or voice messages. If it's another player's turn, EPIA 24 can show whose turn it is via an icon next to that player's name and/or flashing text.

[0084] As noted above, the EPIA 24 includes a set of player selection buttons 72 that allow players to take appropriate action when their turn comes, such as betting, folding, calling, and the like. In one embodiment, under the given game rules, the EPIA 24 only activates the appropriate buttons 72 in the current round. For example, if the maximum number of raises has been reached for a particular game, the buttons to bet or raise will be disabled. In addition, when it is not a certain player's turn, all of its buttons 72 are disabled.

[0085] As noted above, each seat or EPIA 24 is assigned to a specific player. Players may be assigned a seat from an electronic waiting queue using a queuing system, or the player may be assigned by casino staff using the system 10. However, under certain circumstances, a player may wish to change seats or go to another table. For example, if another player/players leave the table, leaving fewer players on the table, and the player does not like to play with so few people at a table, the player can pass EPIA 24 Request a seat assignment again.

[0086] The present invention includes methods of showing and/or hiding a player's hole cards (see above). Additionally or separately, the EPIA 24 may provide an indication of a win percentage based on the player's current hand and the community cards. The winning percentage can be displayed textually, such as 55%, and/or graphically, such as a pie chart or bar chart. Win percentages can be triggered and displayed using the same trigger events associated with hole cards. Alternatively, a separate trigger event, such as a touch event at another location on the EPIA24, can also be used to display the winning percentage.

[0087] The present invention includes methods of showing and/or hiding a player's hole cards (see above). Additionally or separately, the EPIA 24 may provide an indication of a win percentage based on the player's current hand and the community cards. The highest hand may be displayed textually, such as two pair, and/or graphically, with pictures of the five cards that make up the highest hand. The highest hand can be triggered and displayed using the same trigger events associated with hole cards. Alternatively, a separate trigger event, such as a touch event at another location on EPIA24, can also be used to display the top hand.

[0088] As noted above, a poker table 18 may contain one or more EPIAs 24. For example, each table can have 11 seats, and a maximum of 11 players can be arranged. Each EPIA24 can have one or more of the characteristics described in IV.

[0089] In one embodiment as described above, the EPIA may be implemented by a stand-alone or modular computer 34. In one embodiment, the modular computer 34 includes a display screen 32 , which may be a touch screen display 32 . Touchscreen display 32 displays information (text and/or graphics) about game progress and implements buttons or selectable areas on EPIA 24 for user input.

[0090] In one aspect of the invention, the table 18 includes a table sound generating device that generates audible sounds for the players. The table sound generating device may be implemented with one or more speakers mounted or integrated on the table 18. Alternatively, the table sound generating device may contain one or more loudspeakers adjacent to or integrated with the EPIA 24. Generally, the table sound generating device plays system sounds or plays sounds suitable for each player to listen to.

[0091] For example, system sounds may include sounds related to imitating shuffling of cards, dealing of cards, throwing chips into pots, and winning bonuses. Player sounds may contain reminders or indications that it is the player's turn or that the game is on time, that time is left, or that time is running out. In general, player-specific sounds will not be implemented by the table sound generator.

[0092] Typical displays, such as liquid crystal or plasma displays, are rectangular. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the cover may be integral with the table top 20, comprising a cutout. The overlay covers the outer edges of the display, with only the portion of the display inside the cutout being visible. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutout has the shape of an oval, which is similar to the shape of a table.

[0093] As noted above, rake is defined as a portion or a percentage of the pot for running a poker game. A portion of this bet total is known as the rake. In one embodiment, the rake amount corresponding to the current pot is displayed on the central display area 26 . The rake can be displayed as a dollar amount, or it can include a graphical representation of electronic chips.

[0094] In another aspect of the present invention, the central display area 26 can provide a reminder of whose turn it is. In one embodiment, the central display area 26 can provide a suitable signal, such as an icon, such as an arrow or other symbols, and a sound, such as a beep or a musical tone and/or a voice message. A reminder of a player's turn can be added to the reminder on EPIA24.

[0095] During a hand of poker, even at a standard poker table with a live dealer, one of the players is designated as the "dealer" for purposes of the order in which cards are dealt and bets placed. In one aspect of the invention, the central display area 26 may provide an indication of which player is designated "banker" for the hand. In one embodiment, the central display area 26 can provide a suitable signal, such as an icon, such as an arrow or other symbols, and a sound, such as a beep or a musical tone and/or a voice message. A reminder of a player's turn can be added to the reminder on EPIA24.

[0096] As noted above, the hole cards 28 are displayed face-down on the respective electronic player interaction areas 24, while the community cards are displayed on the central display area 26. In one aspect, the community cards 30 are larger than the indicated size of the hole cards 28 .

[0097] In one aspect of the invention, table 18 provides players with a poker game, such as Texas Hold'em. In one embodiment, the provided poker game is a timed game, that is, players have a predetermined amount of time to complete each round. For example, the player has one minute to complete each round. Alternatively, the time period is variable, such as having one minute to complete the first round, whereas the second round has a shorter or longer time to complete. Instead, each player has a time bank, and the time to complete each round is subtracted from their time bank.

[0098] In another aspect of the invention, the central display 38 may be used to display advertising information. Advertising information may come from the Casino or third parties and may consist of images, pictures, animations, video and/or audio. Advertisements may be displayed on a specific area of the central display 38, or may be time-varying, that is, cycle through a set of advertisement messages.

[0099] With particular reference to FIG. 13B, in one embodiment, the game engine 82 is implemented or runs on a game computer 94. If the electronic poker table 18 is a stand-alone poker table 18, the electronic poker table 18 may include its own gaming computer 94. Alternatively, the gaming computer may be a server 50 that may be networked to a plurality of electronic poker tables 18 .

[00100] In one embodiment, game engine 82 includes a random number generator or RNG (not shown). At the beginning of each video poker game, the RNG is used to shuffle a deck of 52 cards and determine the order of the deck. One player is designated as the dealer.

[00101] If the poker table 18 is playing Texas Hold'em, the player to the left of the dealer (usually designated by the dealer button) is called the "small blind" and the player to the left of the small blind is called the "big blind." At the beginning of each hand, the player known as the big blind must add a predetermined amount of money to the total bet, such as $1, $5, or $10. This amount is also called the big blind. Prior to this, the player known as the small blind must also add a predetermined amount of money to the total bet, usually 1/2 of the big blind. This amount is also known as the small blind. Typically, the game engine 82 will automatically deduct the big and small blinds from the corresponding player's pile and add to the total wager.

[00102] After the blinds are announced, the game engine 82 will deal two cards, the player's hole cards, face down to each player. These cards are displayed face down in each player's electronic player interaction area 24 . As mentioned above, each player has control over seeing their hole cards.

[00103] After the hole cards are dealt, the game engine 82 administers a betting round. The first round of betting starts with the player to the left of the big blind. Typically, each player will be given a suitable set of choices in the form of game buttons 74 . In one embodiment, the play button 74 is only displayed when it is the player's turn. Furthermore, only the appropriate play buttons 74 are displayed according to the rules of the poker game being played.

[00104] After the first betting round, the game engine 82 is dealt face up and reveals three community cards, or "community cards." In one embodiment, community cards are displayed in each electronic player interaction area 24, as shown. If a central display area 26 is used, the community cards may only be displayed or there again.

[00105] A second betting round follows. After the second round of betting, the game engine 82 deals a fourth community card, or "spin card." Then comes the third betting round.

[00106] After the third betting round, the fifth and final community card, the "tail card," is dealt face up. This is followed by the fourth and final betting round. If after the last round of betting there is still more than one player, the player with the highest hand will be determined to be the winner of the hand.

[00107] If there is only one player after any of the first to third betting rounds, the remaining player is automatically determined to be the winner. Since one or more community cards have not yet been dealt, the rabbit button 72D in each electronic player interaction area 24 is activated or displayed, as described above.

[00108] In one aspect of the invention, the poker tables 18 in the system 10 are networked, connected to one or more servers 50. The server 50 can be used to implement and facilitate the following operations: player tracking, ticket-in-ticket-out (cashless) betting, assigning players to seats at a table, tournament play, table setup (including opening/closing tables and modifying table parameters), and jackpots. Each table 18 has one or more EPIAs 24 . The poker table 18 and EPIA may have one or more of the features described below.

[00109] Additionally, other devices may also be connected to server 50 to provide additional features and/or functionality. For example, provide a queuing system (see below). This system can also be implemented by a separate computer which performs this function. A separate computer may also implement other features or functions of the system. However, it should be noted that in some systems, at least some of these additional features or functions may be provided by the server 50 .

[00110] In one aspect of the invention, the server 50 runs the game. In other words, the server 50 electronically shuffles, deals cards, controls players' turns, receives and acts on player input, tracks, manages and awards wagers, tracks rake. Game data is stored in the database, every entry, bet, game, etc. is stored in the database.

[00111] In one aspect of the present invention, a queuing system for assigning players to poker table 18 seats is provided. The queuing system can also implement an electronic waiting list if no seats are available. In one embodiment, one or more casino employees have access to one or more devices, such as personal computers, laptops, tablets, and handheld computers, or PDAs. These devices allow employees to enter a customer's name or player ID or swipe a player ID card. If a seat is available at the table 18, the player may be assigned to that seat.

[00112] In one embodiment, if more than one seat is available, the employee may select one of the seats (with or without player input). Alternatively, the device may select seats by predetermined rules.

[00113] If no seats are available, the player is placed in a queue until a seat becomes available. In one embodiment, players are taken from the queue and assigned seats on a first-come, first-served basis. However, system 10 may allow casinos to set special rules for players, bypassing queues or lists. For example, a casino may issue a player a voucher to be placed at the head of the queue under certain circumstances, such as winning a game.

[00114] In one aspect of the invention, the server 50 provides an interface that allows a user, such as a casino authorized or designated employee, to create a new table 18, or to change the parameters of an existing table 18. The interface can be implemented on the server 50 or other devices networked to the server 50 .

[00115] The interface may provide one or more of the following features: the ability to turn on/off a poker table, the ability to modify game parameters such as allowed bets, games played, rake, etc.

[00116] In one aspect of the present invention, as described above, the system 10 tracks each transaction, bet and deal in a database. The system 10 also tracks the players at each table 18 . This information is stored in a database, summarized, and presented in numerous reporting formats. Any information related to the player, the game, how each round is played is tracked. These useful data can also be used for analysis, to determine the frequency of poker hands (hourly), for a table or all games played by a certain player or certain players, and can also be used for monitoring, such as Collusion between players.

[00117] As noted above, in one embodiment, each player must belong to a player club and have an assigned player ID to log into the EPIA 24 in order to play poker at the table 18. Each player has an account in the Player Tracking Club. Player accounts at tracking clubs track the amount of cash or currency players have available to play poker. The player account also tracks the player's play at the table 18, including the amount wagered and the amount won.

[00118] The system 10 allows prizes, ie, jackpots, to be generated and won across multiple hands and/or multiple tables. The jackpot amount may increase based on the amount wagered and/or won at the included tables. The jackpot amount may continue to increase until a predetermined condition is won. Alternatively, it may only be activated within a predetermined time frame. A condition for winning a bonus may be that the bonus is won by one or more players before the time limit expires.

[00119] The system 10 allows the jackpot to be played in a variety of ways. The manner in which the jackpot may be run may be through a computer program running on the server 50 or other device. For example, the jackpot may be raised by taking a percentage on every bet, every two bets, or every n bets.

[00120] The jackpot amount may be displayed on the central display 38 and/or on the remote displays.

[00121] Under certain definable conditions, and/or for specific events, such as marketing campaigns, jackpots can be initialized at will. Jackpots can be for a single hand (in multiple hands), a predetermined number of hands within a table, multiple hands for a predetermined time, etc.

[00122] In another aspect of the invention, after a player wins a prize, or the player logs off, or any winner exceeds a predetermined amount, or at any other appropriate time, the player at EPIA24 will see one or more government reports sheet. This form accepts the player's electronic signature (if allowed), or the player can be informed of the requirement and directed to where they can fill out the form. This device may be a personal computer, laptop computer, or tablet computer, handheld computer, PDA or other suitable device.

[00123] In one aspect of the invention, one or more casino employees may be assigned to manage multiple tables. One of the employees can manage the queuing system (where available). A server-networked device can be provided that provides multiple functions to employees. The device provides a dashboard application that allows staff to manage different aspects of the poker table 18.

[00124] In one aspect of the present invention, employees can view various data related to the current state of the table, including but not limited to players, bets, wagering information, community cards, etc.

[00125] For example, in response to an in-person inquiry, or an inquiry by EPIA24, an employee may view tracking data to look for evidence of collusion between two or more players. For example, an employee may determine whether two or more players at a certain table are in the habit of playing simultaneously to determine if there is a discernible pattern in the game that would justify them not being allowed to cooperate together.

[00126] In one aspect of the present invention, each EPIA 24 may provide the player with buttons to summon or request specific employees in the casino. For example, the player can ask the host/hostess to order a drink. In addition, players may ask employees to review what has happened or is happening at the poker table 18, for example, possible collusion. This can be done anonymously.

[00127] As noted above, the equipment that allows players to manage poker tables 18 may also allow staff to automatically or manually assign players to specific poker tables, and/or specific locations, and/or EPIA 24.

[00128] In one embodiment, the server 50 controls advertisements on the central display 38. Advertisements may also be provided on the EPIA 24 and/or remote displays connected to the poker table 18. Server 50 may control the content, frequency, and/or rotation of advertisements.

[00129] In one aspect of the invention, a player may refrain from participating in one or more hands of play, or may get up from the table and not participate in one or more hands of play. Typically, however, if a player decides to play a subsequent hand, that player owes a predetermined amount of money for the current bet, ie, missing "missing blinds" per hand. In one embodiment, if the player decides not to play one or more rounds, the system 10 tracks the number of missing rounds, and once the player decides to play another round, automatically deducts an amount equal to the number of missing rounds multiplied by Blinds.

[00130] As noted above, the system 10 records in a database each transaction, card dealt or played, wager, etc. This allows the system 10 to recover from any errors, bringing the game back to the same state.

[00131] The system 10 facilitates gaming. In the game, a predetermined number of tables 18 with a predetermined number of players are involved. Ask to buy again, say $100. Usually, after a player loses all their money, they are removed from the game.

[00132] Under predetermined rules, players may register for a game and be assigned a seat at a poker table. During games, tables may be broken up and players assigned to other tables under predetermined rules. System 10 facilitates gaming by providing one or more of the following features:

a) Registration

b) Track game information

c) Display game information on the central monitor and/or remote monitors

d) Game arrangement, such as buy-in

e) buy again

f) Game wagers, cash or entry vouchers for joining another game (specific game or expiry date)

g) The process of interrupting the table:

(1) Send a message that the table is interrupted

(2) Communicate new seating arrangements

(3) Determine the interrupt sequence

(4) Display interrupt sequence

h) Display status information about other tables and players at other tables

i) System used to monitor and adjust the number of hands per hour at a single table in a game: In a game of poker, it is important that each table has approximately the same number of hands per hour as all other tables. This can be done by pausing the game and/or not pausing but slowing down the game.

j) Multipoint game

k) The system automatically pays out players' winnings based on the game's payout table and final position in the game.

[00133] In one aspect of the invention, remote or virtual gaming may be provided by the system 10. Remote or virtual games can be provided on wireless devices and can be played at predetermined locations.

[00134] Virtual games may also be provided through EPIAs 24. For example, poker players can play virtual or remote games when it is not their turn. A virtual or remote game may be another hand of poker, against other players at the poker table or at other tables, or against virtual players. Alternatively, the remote or virtual game may be other types of games including, but not limited to, blackjack, chino, slot machines, and the like.

[00135] In addition to running other casino games at the EPIAs 24 or other terminals, the system 10 may run on other gaming devices throughout the casino. For example, a virtual poker game can be run on existing electronic betting terminals or electronic sports competition terminals.

[00136] In one aspect of the invention, a gaming computer provides a timed electronic poker game. As previously mentioned, the game computer 94 is connected or networked with a plurality of electronic player interaction areas 14 to handle electronic poker games composed of electronic cards. The electronic cards are displayed on the electronic player interaction area 24 . The gaming computer 94 manages electronic poker games. A video poker game has at least one round of play, including each (remaining) player having at least one turn. Each time there is a set of allowed actions and associated response times. The set of allowed actions is determined based on the game rules of the particular video game being played.

[00137] The gaming computer 94 provides the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action each round, and if the player does not respond within the relevant response time, the computer automatically selects a default action.

[00138] For example, for a given round, the allowed actions may be to give up, fold, call or raise. The default behavior will be one of the allowed behaviors for the player when it's his turn.

[00139] In one aspect, the default behavior is determined according to predetermined rules. The default behavior for the player may be determined based on the game round and/or the player's positional relationship to the dealer. For example, if playing Texas Hold'em, the default behavior on the first betting round might be to call or give up. However, on any round thereafter, the default action is to fold. It should be noted that for any given round, any default behavior can be set, and the present invention does not limit the default behavior. For example, each game round, the default behavior can be set to discard cards.

[00140] In one embodiment of the invention, the associated response time for each round is predetermined. Alternatively, the associated response times for each round may be set as a function of game rounds. For example, the required response time may decrease or increase from one round of gambling to the next.

[00141] In another aspect of the invention, the response time is variable.

[00142] For example, each player has an associated response time library. Each response time can contain a default response time and a variable response time. For any given game round, if a player responds within the default response time, then no time will be deducted from the player's respective bank. However, if the player responds after the default response time has expired, the extra time needs to be deducted from the time pool. Once the player's time bank is exhausted, the gaming computer 94 will adopt a default behavior. For subsequent game rounds, the default behavior is applied after the default response time has expired.

[000143] In another embodiment, the gaming computer 94 may add times to the response time library for the player under a predetermined set of rules. For example, times not used in the default response times can be added to the player's time pool.

[000144] Typically, the variable response time in a game round cannot exceed the remaining time in the player's response time library.

[000145] The player interface 54 includes game buttons 74, as described above. In one embodiment, only game buttons 74 corresponding to allowed actions are displayed during the player's respective turn.

[000146] Referring to FIG. 14, a method 100 of providing an electronic poker game with an electronic poker table 18 is shown.

[000147] In a first step 102, a hand of electronic poker consisting of electronic playing cards is processed. A board game of electronic poker has at least one game round, and there is at least one round for each (remaining) player. Each round has some allowed actions and associated response times.

[000148] In a second step 104, the gaming computer 94 administers the electronic poker game with the electronic cards. In a third step 106, the gaming computer 94 provides the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action each round.

[000149] In a third step 108, the computer automatically selects a default action if the player does not respond within the relevant response time.

[000150] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. The invention may be practiced otherwise than as described within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (40)

1. An electronic poker table that provides electronic poker games for multiple players, including: a table with a table top with an attached game surface; a plurality of display devices arranged around the desktop, each display device implementing an electronic player interaction area, and each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with one of the plurality of players; and The game computer is connected with a plurality of electronic player interactive areas, processes an electronic card game composed of electronic cards, displays the electronic cards in the electronic player interactive areas, and manages the electronic card game. A game of electronic cards has at least a game round, consisting of at least one round for each player, each round having a set of allowed actions and associated response times, the game computer providing the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action in each round, if the player Failure to respond within the relevant response time, the computer automatically selects a default behavior. 2. A poker table as claimed in claim 1, wherein the default action is to fold and/or raise. 3. A poker table as claimed in claim 1, wherein the default behavior is determined according to a predetermined set of rules. 4. A poker table as claimed in claim 1, wherein the associated response time for each round is predetermined. 5. A poker table as claimed in claim 1, wherein the relative response time for each round is a function of the game round. 6. The poker table as claimed in claim 1, wherein the response time includes a default response time and a variable response time, the default response time is a predetermined constant, and the variable response time is deducted from the player's response time library. 7. A poker table as claimed in claim 6, wherein the player's response time pool is deducted from the player's response time pool for the portion of the player's usage beyond the default response time. 8. A poker table as claimed in claim 7, the gaming computer accumulating times on the player response time bank under a predetermined set of rules. 9. A poker table as claimed in claim 7, the variable response time in a round of gambling cannot exceed the remainder of the pool of player response times. 10. The poker table of claim 1, at the conclusion of a hand, the gaming computer determines a winner from among the players and awards a wager. 11. The poker table of claim 1, the gaming computer administering the electronic poker game with electronic chips. 12. A poker table as claimed in claim 1, each display device displaying one or more face-down electronic playing cards, controllably allowing a player to view the fronts of the face-down electronic playing cards. 13. The poker table of claim 1, wherein the set of permissible actions includes at least one of folding, raising, giving up and calling. 14. A poker table as claimed in claim 13, the player interface area comprising game buttons. 15. A poker table as claimed in claim 14, wherein the electronic player interface area displays only the corresponding game buttons for which actions are permitted when the corresponding player's turn is. 16. Electronic poker tables providing electronic poker games for multiple players, including: a table with a table top with an attached game surface; A central display area located in the center of the tabletop that displays information to the player. A plurality of touch-type display devices arranged around the desktop, each display device implements an electronic player interaction area, and each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with one of the plurality of players. and A gaming computer, connected together with a plurality of electronic player interaction areas and a central display area, processing a round of electronic card games consisting of electronic cards, displaying electronic cards in the electronic player interaction area and/or the central display area, and managing the electronic cards Games, electronic poker and electronic chips, and determine the winner from the players at the end of a round, awarding bets to the winner, a round of electronic card games has at least one game round, including each player has at least one round, each round With a set of allowed actions and associated response times, the gaming computer provides the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action each round, and if the player does not respond within the associated response time, the computer automatically selects a default Behavior. 17. A poker table as claimed in claim 16, the permissible actions include folding, folding, calling and/or raising. 18. A poker table as claimed in claim 16, wherein the default behavior is determined according to a predetermined set of rules. 19. A poker table as claimed in claim 16, wherein the associated response time for each round is predetermined. 20. The poker table as claimed in claim 16, wherein the relative response time for each round is a function of the game round. 21. The card table as claimed in claim 16, wherein the response time includes a default response time and a variable response time, the default response time is a predetermined constant, and the variable response time will be deducted from the player's response time library . 22. A poker table as claimed in claim 21 , the portion of the player's use beyond the default response time being deducted from the player's response time pool. 23. The poker table of claim 21, the gaming computer accumulating times on the player response time bank under a predetermined set of rules. 24. A poker table as claimed in claim 16, each display device displaying one or more face-down electronic playing cards, controllable to allow a player to view the front face of the face-down electronic playing cards. 25. The poker table of claim 16, wherein the set of permissible actions includes at least one of folding, raising, giving up and calling. 26. A poker table as claimed in claim 25, the player interface area comprising game buttons. 27. A poker table as claimed in claim 26, wherein the electronic player interface area displays only the corresponding game buttons for which actions are permitted when the corresponding player is turned. 28. A method for providing an electronic poker game comprising: An electronic poker table is provided. The poker table has multiple display devices and game surfaces. The display devices are set around the desktop to realize an electronic player interaction area. Each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with multiple players. interact with one of the providing a gaming computer connected to multiple display devices; processing an electronic poker game consisting of electronic poker cards having at least one game round consisting of at least one round for each player, each round having a set of allowed actions and associated response times; administer electronic poker games with electronic poker by gaming computers; providing the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action each round by the gaming computer; and, Automatically selects a default behavior if the player does not respond within the associated response time. 29. A method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the default action is one of giving up, folding, calling and/or raising. 30. A method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the default behavior is determined according to a predetermined set of rules. 31. A method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the associated response time for each round is predetermined. 32. A method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the relative response time for each round is a function of the game round. 33. The method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the response time includes a default response time and a variable response time, the default response time is a predetermined constant, and the variable response time is deducted from the player's response time library. 34. A method as claimed in claim 33, the portion of the player's use beyond the default response time being deducted from the player's response time pool. 35. A method as claimed in claim 34, including the step of accumulating time on the player response time library under a predetermined set of rules. 36. A method as claimed in claim 28, including the step of the gaming computer determining a winner from among the players and awarding wagers at the conclusion of a hand. 37. A method as claimed in claim 28, including the step of displaying one or more face-down electronic playing cards, controllably allowing the player to view the front side of the face-down electronic playing cards. 38. An electronic poker table providing electronic poker games for multiple players, comprising: a table with a table top with an attached game surface; a plurality of display devices arranged around the desktop, each display device implements an electronic player interaction area, each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with one of the plurality of players, and The game computer is connected with a plurality of electronic player interaction areas and the central display area, processes a round of electronic card games composed of electronic cards, displays electronic cards in the interactive areas of electronic players, manages this electronic card game, and a round of electronic cards The game has at least one game round, comprising at least one round for each player, each round having a set of allowed actions and associated response times, the gaming computer providing the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action in each round , the computer automatically chooses a default behavior if the player does not respond within the relevant response time. 39. An electronic poker table providing electronic poker games for multiple players, comprising: a table with a table top with an attached game surface; A central display area located in the center of the desktop to display information to players; A plurality of touch display devices arranged around the desktop, each display device implementing an electronic player interaction area, each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interacting with one of the plurality of players, and The gaming computer, connected together with a plurality of electronic player interaction areas and a central display area, processes an electronic card game consisting of electronic cards, displays electronic cards in the electronic player interaction area and/or the central display area, and manages the electronic cards Games, electronic poker and electronic chips, and determine the winner from the players at the end of a round, awarding bets to the winner, a round of electronic card games has at least one game round, including each player has at least one round, each round With a set of allowed actions and associated response times, the gaming computer provides the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action each round, and if the player does not respond within the associated response time, the computer automatically selects a default Behavior. 40. A method of providing electronic card games, comprising: An electronic poker table is provided, and the electronic poker table has multiple display devices and game surfaces. These display devices are arranged around the desktop to realize an electronic player interaction area. interact with one of the players; providing a gaming computer connected to multiple display devices; processing an electronic poker game consisting of electronic poker cards having at least one game round consisting of at least one round for each player, each round having a set of allowed actions and associated response times; managing electronic poker games with electronic poker through gaming computers; providing the player with an opportunity to select an allowed action each round by the gaming computer; and, Automatically selects a default behavior if the player does not respond within the associated response time.

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