Patent ID: 8118679
Filing Date: 2012-02-21
Classification: A63F,G07F

Abstract:
1. A method comprising: determining whether a first gaming terminal is eligible to participate in a shared gaming session comprising a shared bonus game, wherein the determination of eligibility is based on a characteristic of the first gaming terminal; transmitting, from a distributed application server to the first gaming terminal, an invitation to participate in the shared gaming session; receiving a reply from the first gaming terminal indicating that the invitation has been accepted; transmitting, from the distributed application server to a second gaming terminal, an indication that the first gaming terminal will participate in the shared gaming session, wherein the second gaming terminal will serve the shared bonus game to the first gaming terminal; permitting players at participating gaming terminals, including the second gaming terminal, to place side bet wagers on an outcome of the shared bonus game; receiving a session termination signal from the second gaming terminal, the session termination signal indicating that the shared bonus game is complete; receiving a session log to account for winnings and losses between the first and second gaming terminals; providing an award to the first gaming terminal based on the outcome of the shared bonus game; providing awards to the other participating gaming terminals based on successful ones of the side bet wagers; and terminating the shared gaming session.