Abstract:
The play of roulette-type game is made more enticing by offering for a single bet a range of payouts from very modest with a high frequency to very great with low frequency. This is achieved without changing the underlying roulette-type game. In a twelve-position roulette, six balls can be used to provide over a 30% chance of getting a match, while the very low probability of getting 3 or more matches provides for generous payouts. Bets can also be placed on patterns of positions of balls.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to devices and methods for playing a game of chance. More specifically, it relates to devices and methods for playing a Roulette-type game with multiple tracks, wherein balls propelled within their respective tracks may yield one or more winning outcomes. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Gambling has historically been a favourite pastime for many and has, over the years, enjoyed very rapid growth. More specifically, the game of Roulette has been known to be popular among casino patrons; it consists in placing wagers on the likelihood of a metal ball, having been propelled around a track in a rotary direction opposite that of a central wheel having indentations where the ball can come to rest, landing in one or another of the available final positions. 
         [0003]    However, it has become apparent that Roulette has recently been slipping in popularity. It is now the least popular gambling games among slot machines, Video Poker, Blackjack, or Craps, each of which is a major casino game. Roulette draws more players than Baccarat only. Moreover, new games are continuously introduced, some of which are likely to challenge the popularity of conventional Roulette. 
         [0004]    There is therefore a need for a generation of games which, while benefiting from the fundamental concept of conventional Roulette, proposes a variety of features that appeal to casino patrons for the purposes of competing with new games. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    It would be desirable to be provided with an apparatus and a method for playing a Roulette-type game in which the odds that a wager placed on a single symbol results in a payout are greater than 25%. 
         [0006]    It would also be desirable to be provided with an apparatus for identifying in real-time the station from which each wager is placed in the context of a multi-player game in which wagers can be placed from any of a plurality of stations at any time over the course of a same wager phase. 
         [0007]    It would also be desirable to be provided with an apparatus for presenting wager options of a Roulette-type game in a manner that clearly indicates the position of groups of symbols on the wheel, and for placing wagers on groups of symbols in an intuitive manner. 
         [0008]    It would also be desirable to be provided with a Roulette-type game in which wagers can be placed on patterns formed by randomly selected positions on the wheel. 
         [0009]    It would also be desirable to be provided with an apparatus for displaying groups of winning wager options in a successive manner to promote an understanding of available wager options and associated odds among players. 
         [0010]    In accordance with the present invention, the play of roulette-type games is made more enticing by offering for a single bet a range of payouts from very modest with a high frequency to very great with low frequency. This is achieved without changing the underlying game of roulette-type game. For example, in a twelve-position roulette, six balls can be used to provide over a 30% chance of getting a match, while the very low probability of getting 3 or more matches provides for generous payouts. Bets can also be placed on patterns of positions of balls. 
         [0011]    In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for playing a game of chance, the apparatus comprising a station for receiving a wager on a desired one of a plurality of potential outcomes in the game of chance, a game controller for randomly selecting one of the plurality of outcomes in accordance with rules of the game of chance, and a win controller for comparing the desired outcome to the randomly selected outcome, and for providing a win signal if the desired outcome is the randomly selected outcome, the apparatus characterized in that the apparatus is configured to repeatedly cause the game controller to play the game with the win controller using the desired outcome for a predetermined number of plays of the game, and in that the apparatus further comprises a multiple game win collector for counting a total number of the win signals provided during the predetermined number of plays of the game by the game controller, a multiple game play payout controller for calculating a payout greater than 0 credits if the number of win signals counted during the predetermined number of plays is greater than 0, for calculating the payout as a function of the number of win signals and the wager, and for providing the calculated payout, wherein the odds of the win controller providing at least one of the win signals during the predetermined number of plays is equal or greater than 25%. 
         [0012]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of playing a game of chance comprising receiving a wager of a player on a desired one of a plurality of potential outcomes in the game, randomly selecting a predetermined number of the potential outcomes in accordance with rules of the game, comparing the desired outcome and the randomly selected outcomes, and calculating a payout as a function of the wager and results of the comparing, the payout being greater than 0 credits if the desired outcome is one of the randomly selected outcomes, wherein the odds that the desired outcome is at least one of the randomly selected outcomes is equal or greater than 25%. 
         [0013]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for playing a game of chance comprising a station for receiving a wager on some desired ones of a plurality of potential patterns of at least three positions, a game controller for randomly selecting at least three of a plurality of potential positions, and a payout controller for providing a payout as a function of the wager if any combination of the randomly selected positions matches any one of the desired patterns. 
         [0014]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of playing a game of chance comprising selecting some desired ones of a plurality of potential patterns of at least three positions, placing a wager on the desired patterns, randomly selecting at least three of a plurality of potential positions, and providing a payout as a function of the wager if any combination of the randomly selected positions matches any one of the desired patterns. 
         [0015]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for playing a game of chance comprising a station for receiving a first wager on a desired one of a plurality of potential positions, and for receiving a second wager on a desired one of a plurality of potential patterns of at least three positions, a game controller for randomly selecting at least three of the plurality of potential positions, a payout controller for providing a payout as a function of the first wager if the desired position is one of the randomly selected positions, and for providing a payout as a function of the second wager if any combination of the randomly selected positions matches the desired pattern. 
         [0016]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for placing wagers on potential outcomes of a game of chance, the apparatus comprising a station for receiving a first wager on a desired one of the potential outcomes, and for receiving a second wager on a desired group of at least two of the potential outcomes, a first interface controller for causing a display of the potential outcomes along a first closed shape, and for causing a display of a visual indicator of the first wager over the desired outcome, and a second interface controller for causing a display of groups of at least two of the potential outcomes along a second closed shape, and for displaying a visual indicator of the second wager over the desired group, wherein those of the displayed outcomes belonging to a same one of the displayed groups are contiguous, and each of the displayed outcomes is aligned with those of the displayed groups to which it belongs. 
         [0017]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, in a multiplayer game of chance in which players can place their wagers at any time over the course of a wager phase, an apparatus for identifying in real-time, and to the players, one of two stations from which each of the wagers is placed, the apparatus comprising a first one of the stations for receiving some of the player wagers, and for providing a wager signal to a wager sequencer upon receiving each one of the first station player wagers, wherein the first station wager signals comprise the identity of the first station, a second one of the stations for receiving some of the player wagers, and for providing a wager signal to the wager sequencer upon receiving each one of the second station player wagers, wherein the second station wager signals comprise the identity of the second station, the wager sequencer for providing the first and the second station wager signals to an interface controller in the order in which they were provided by the first and the second station, and the interface controller for causing a display of a visual indicator of one of the first and the second station that received each of the wagers upon being provided each of the first and the second station wager signals. 
         [0018]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided, in a game of chance that offers a plurality of wager options, an apparatus for displaying winning ones of the options after an outcome of the game has been determined, the apparatus comprising a winning wager options controller for identifying those of the options that are met by the determined outcome, namely the winning options, a winning wager options sequencer for dividing the winning options into at least two groups of winning options, and for providing each of the groups to an interface controller individually and at predetermined intervals of time, and the interface controller for causing an individual display of a most recently provided one of the groups. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0019]    The invention as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
           [0020]      FIG. 1  is a plan view of an apparatus for playing a Roulette-based game comprising a communal panel for displaying game events and four individual stations for placing wagers on potential game outcomes; 
           [0021]      FIG. 2  illustrates a user interface window to be displayed on a screen of a station for selecting a desired category of reference points during a first phase of the game; 
           [0022]      FIG. 3  illustrates a pane to be displayed over the user interface window and comprising a table describing a payment schedule for wagers on Cancer; 
           [0023]      FIG. 4  illustrates a pane to be displayed over the user interface window and comprising a table describing a payment schedule for wagers on Alignment; 
           [0024]      FIG. 5  illustrates a first state of a visual interface displayed on the communal panel, the visual interface providing an indication as to stations from which and times at which wagers are placed; 
           [0025]      FIG. 6  illustrates a second state of the visual interface displayed on the communal panel, the visual interlace providing an indication as to stations from which and times at which wagers are placed; 
           [0026]      FIG. 7  illustrates the user interface window providing an indication with respect to previously placed wagers during a second phase of the game; 
           [0027]      FIG. 8  illustrates a state of the visual interface providing the initial positions of six Planets along their respective orbits during the second phase of the game; 
           [0028]      FIG. 9  illustrates a state of the visual interface wherein the Planets are revolving around the Sun during the second phase of the game; 
           [0029]      FIG. 10  illustrates a state of the visual interface wherein three Planets have reached their final destinations while three others are pursuing their revolutions around the Sun; 
           [0030]      FIG. 11  illustrates a state of the visual interface wherein all six Planets have reached their final destinations; 
           [0031]      FIG. 12  illustrates a state of the user interface window providing an indication as to results of the draw during a third phase of the game; 
           [0032]      FIG. 13  illustrates a state of the user interface window demonstrating winning wager options pertaining to Zodiac Signs; 
           [0033]      FIG. 14  illustrates a state of the user interface window demonstrating winning wager options pertaining to Seasons; 
           [0034]      FIG. 15  illustrates a state of the user interface window demonstrating winning wager options pertaining to Natural Elements; 
           [0035]      FIG. 16  illustrates a state of the user interface window demonstrating winning wager options pertaining to Day and Night; 
           [0036]      FIG. 17  illustrates a state of the user interface window demonstrating winning wager options pertaining to Gender; 
           [0037]      FIG. 18  illustrates a state of the user interface window demonstrating winning wager options pertaining to Alignment; 
           [0038]      FIG. 19  illustrates a state of the visual interface providing an indication as to winning wager options pertaining to Zodiac Signs; 
           [0039]      FIG. 20  illustrates a state of the visual interface providing an indication as to winning wager options pertaining to Seasons; 
           [0040]      FIG. 21  illustrates a state of the visual interface providing an indication as to winning wager options pertaining to Natural Elements; 
           [0041]      FIG. 22  illustrates a state of the visual interface providing an indication as to winning wager options pertaining to Day and Night; 
           [0042]      FIG. 23  illustrates a state of the visual interface providing an indication as to winning wager options pertaining to Gender; 
           [0043]      FIG. 24  illustrates a state of the visual interface providing an indication as to winning wager options pertaining to Alignment; 
           [0044]      FIG. 25  illustrates a state of the visual interface wherein three light beams are projected from the Sun towards three distinct stations, and each of the beams is indicative of a winning wager placed from a corresponding one of the stations. 
           [0045]      FIG. 26  is a schematic block diagram of a generic game apparatus according to some embodiments of the invention; 
           [0046]      FIG. 27  is a flowchart of a method of playing a game of chance according to some embodiments of the invention; 
           [0047]      FIG. 28  is a flowchart of a method of playing a game of chance in which players can place wagers on patterns formed by positions randomly selected within a plurality of available positions; 
           [0048]      FIG. 29  is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for placing wagers on potential outcomes of a game of chance according to one embodiment of the invention; 
           [0049]      FIG. 30  is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for identifying in real-time, and to the players, the stations from which each wager is placed; and 
           [0050]      FIG. 31  is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for demonstrating winning wager options in a game of chance in which players can place wagers on a plurality of available options. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0051]    The Roulette-based game and its inventive features are described herein below. For exemplary purposes, and more specifically, in order to clearly demonstrate the synergy between the aforementioned features, an astrology-themed version of the game is presented. However, it should be apparent to a person skilled in the art that other themes may be assigned to the game. 
         [0052]      FIG. 1  is a plan view of an apparatus for playing the game comprising a communal panel  103  for displaying results of a draw and four individual stations  101  for placing wagers on potential game outcomes. 
         [0053]    The stations  101  are detachably mounted on a same platform and positioned in a substantially circular configuration with respect to the panel  103 . Each of the individual stations  101  comprises a touch screen, a set of speakers, a currency acceptor, a dedicated printer, as well as a system that enables the interaction of these various components with a player, with each other, and with components of the panel  103  for the purposes of the game. As for the panel  103 , it comprises a screen, a set of speakers, as well as a system that enables the interaction of these various components with each other and with components of the stations  101 . Furthermore, the screens of the stations  101  and the panel  103  are mounted in a substantially horizontal manner and those of the stations  101  are positioned in proximity of that of the panel  103  such that a player&#39;s attention may easily be shifted between the screens of the station  101  and the panel  103 . The number of the stations  101  mounted on the platform may be readily modified as a function of parameters such as spatial constraints and operation costs. 
         [0054]    Although the stations  101  have been described as detachably mounted on the platform, they may be fixedly mounted thereon in order, for instance, to reduce costs associated with the manufacture of such an apparatus. Furthermore, although the stations  101  have been described as positioned in a substantially circular configuration with respect to the panel  103 , they may be positioned otherwise such as in a substantially semicircular configuration with respect to the panel  103  in order, for instance, to provide all players with an unobstructed view of a vertically mounted panel  103 . Moreover, although each of the stations  101  has been described as comprising a touch screen, it may alternatively comprise an elaborate set of buttons or a screen coupled with a set of buttons. Also, although the panel  103  has been described as comprising a screen, it may alternatively comprise a display surface upon which images are projected. Finally, although the screens pertaining to the stations  101  and panel  103  have been described as mounted in a substantially horizontal manner, they may be mounted otherwise such as in a substantially vertical manner in order, for instance, to comply with spatial constraints. 
         [0055]    For the purposes of the specification, a graphical element is said to be displayed on the station  101  or panel  103  if the element is displayed on the screen thereof. Also, a graphical element is said to be selected if a player applies pressure on a portion of the station  101  touch screen on which the element is displayed. 
         [0056]      FIG. 27  is a flowchart of a method of playing the game according to some embodiments of the invention. A first step  2701  of the method consists in receiving a wager on a desired outcome. Within the context of the specific embodiment described, a wager on a desired group of outcomes can also be received. Still within the context of the specific embodiment described, the desired outcome corresponds to one of twelve constant reference points, each of which is assigned a specific Zodiac Sign. The desired group of outcomes corresponds to a group of several constant reference points, and corresponding Zodiac Signs are affiliated to a same Season, a same Natural Element, a same one of Day and Night, or a same Gender. 
         [0057]      FIG. 26  is a schematic block diagram of a generic game apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. A game specifications store  2603  provides wager options to a player station  101 , which in turn presents wager options to a player and receives wagers placed by the player on a desired outcome or group of outcomes. 
         [0058]    One of the main purposes of the station  101  consists in providing a user interface that enables players to place wagers on a series of potential outcomes of the game in an efficient and intuitive manner during the initial phase. The first step in placing a wager consists in selecting a category of constant reference points, namely a desired outcome or group of outcomes, under which several winning outcomes are possible. As mentioned previously, within the context of the astrology-themed version of the game, each of the twelve constant reference points is assigned one of the twelve Zodiac Signs, which are categorized according to their affiliation with Natural Elements, Day, Night, Seasons, and Gender. A potential outcome or group of potential outcomes pertaining to a specific category of Zodiac Signs consists in a Planet which, following its revolutions around the Sun, is aligned with and positioned between the Sun and a member of the category. 
         [0059]    According to a preferred embodiment of the game, in addition to designating a particular Zodiac Sign, each of the potential outcomes designates one of a plurality of positions, and the random selection of an outcome results in the random selection of a position. Still according to the preferred embodiment, the station  101  can receive wagers on patterns formed by positions randomly selected over the course of several successive plays of the game. A flowchart of the method of playing the game according to this particular wager option is illustrated in  FIG. 28 . A first step  2801  consists in defining a pattern within a position matrix integrated into the station  101 , and placing a wager on the defined pattern in a step  2803 . 
         [0060]    Although within the specific embodiment described, the methods of playing a game of chance presented in  FIG. 27  and  FIG. 28  are integrated within a single game, each of the methods may very well relate to an independent game. Also, while the step  2801  consists in defining a pattern, it may alternatively consist in selecting one of a plurality of predetermined patterns. Within the specific embodiment described, each of six variable reference points is assigned one of six Planets, and wagers can be received on patterns formed by the Planets after their revolutions around the Sun. One of the patterns, namely the Alignment pattern, consists in an alignment of a number of Planets with each other and with the Sun. It is important to note that in the latter case, namely the case of an Alignment, aligned Planets do not necessarily have to be positioned between the Sun and a same Zodiac sign with which they are aligned; in other words, if the Sun pertains to a line segment defined by two Planets, the Sun and the Planets are considered to be aligned. The Planets and their revolutions around the Sun within the context of the game are explained in further details herein below as they mainly relate to the second phase of the game. 
         [0061]    In accordance with the present invention, by reducing the number of constant reference points or potential outcomes with respect to traditional Roulette games, the complexity of the game is decreased, which is particularly advantageous as it increases the speed with which new players learn the rules of the game and the ease with which established players follow the course of a game. 
         [0062]    For the purposes of the specification, Planets are said to be aligned with a Zodiac Sign if they are located between and aligned with the Sun and the Zodiac Sign. Also, two or more Planets are said to be aligned if the Planets and the Sun are aligned. The twelve Zodiac Signs include Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius. Among those twelve Signs, Capricorn, Taurus, and Virgo are affiliated with Earth; Aquarius, Gemini, and Libra are affiliated with Air; Pisces, Cancer, and Scorpio are affiliated with Water; and Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are affiliated with Fire. Furthermore, still among those twelve Signs, Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, and Virgo are affiliated with Day whereas Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Gemini are affiliated with Night. Moreover, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces are affiliated with Winter; Aries, Taurus, and Gemini, with Spring; Cancer, Leo, and Virgo, with Summer; and Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius, with Fall. Finally, Capricorn, Pisces, Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, and Scorpio are affiliated with Female whereas Aquarius, Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, and Virgo are affiliated with Male. 
         [0063]    According to one embodiment of the present invention, alignments of one, two, three, four, five, and six Planets with a specific Sign yields payout factors of 1, 5, 10, 100, 2500 and 15000 respectively. Furthermore, alignments of one, two, three, four, five, and six Planets with Signs affiliated with a specific Season or Natural Element yield payout factors of 0, 1, 2, 5, 25, and 250. Also, alignments of one, two, three, four, five, and six Planets with Signs affiliated with either one of Day, Night, Male, or Female yield payout factors of 0, 0, 0, 1, 5, and 12. Finally, alignments of one, two, three, four, five, and six Planets yield payout factors of 0, 0, 0, 50, 150, and 1500. It is important to note that other payout factors may be attributed to the aforementioned alignments according to the needs of the game&#39;s operator. Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the present invention, wagers may be placed on specific outcomes consisting of a specific number of Planets aligned with a specific Sign or set of Signs. 
         [0064]      FIG. 2  illustrates a user interface window  201  to be displayed on a station  101  for selecting one of the aforementioned categories of Signs. 
         [0065]    In the window  201 , a language selection tool can be displayed, the tool enabling a player to select at any time during the course of a game a language of preference in which information is to be displayed. In this particular case, the player may select one of two languages, i.e. English and French, by selecting the corresponding button. Alternatively, a single language button may be provided, the selection of which would trigger the display of a language selection pane that would present the player with a more extensive list of available languages. 
         [0066]    Referring back to  FIG. 2 , at the top right corner of the window  201 , is displayed a timer  203 , the purpose of which consists in informing players as to the amount of time left for placing wagers, thereby allowing players to manage the allotted time. According to one embodiment, the first phase of the game lasts sixty second, and during this phase, a message inviting players to place their wagers is displayed as overlapping the timer  203 , whereas during the second phase, a message informing players that they can no longer place wagers is displayed as overlapping the timer  203 , whereby misinterpretations of its role within the game are prevented. While the first phase has been described as lasting sixty seconds, it may be set to last longer or shorter according to the parameters of the game and the needs of the game&#39;s operator. 
         [0067]    Referring back to  FIG. 2 , towards the bottom of the window  201 , are displayed three rectangular indicators  205 ,  207 , and  209 . The indicator  205  indicates the amount of money or credits won by a player over the course of a game. As for the second indicator  207 , it indicates the amount of money or credits wagered by the player over the course of the game. Finally, the indicator  209  indicates the amount of money or credits left in the player&#39;s account. 
         [0068]    Referring back to  FIG. 2 , within the window  201 , there can be displayed an information pane, the purpose of which consists in providing context-sensitive information to the player such as instructions regarding the manner in which the user interface should be manipulated. During the initial phase of the game, a message can be displayed within the information pane, inviting players to select a symbol should they wish to place wagers. In the top left corner of the window  201 , there is displayed an information button  210 , the selection of which would trigger the display of a pane specifying the rules of the game and payment schedule. Within the window  201 , there can be displayed a help button, the selection of which enables players to call an attendant to their station  101  with ease and without diverting their attention from the game. The help button can be displayed as a component of the window  201  throughout the course of a game and may be selected at any time. 
         [0069]    Referring again to  FIG. 2 , there are displayed a concentric ring  211  and circle  213 , each of which has a distinct radius. The ring  211  is associated with the four Natural Elements; more specifically, it is equally divided into four quadrants  215  respectively associated with Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. A player may select a category of Zodiac Signs affiliated with any of the four Natural Elements by selecting a corresponding one of quadrants  215 . As for the circle  213 , it is displayed within the inner edge of the ring  211 , and is equally divided into two semicircles  217 , respectively associated with Male and Female. A player may select a category of Zodiac Signs affiliated with either one of the Genders by selecting a corresponding one of the semicircles  217 . 
         [0070]    Still referring to  FIG. 2 , within the window  201 , there is displayed another circle  219 , which is undivided, and the center of which is different from that of the ring  211  and circle  213 . A player may select the Planets as variable reference points for the Alignment by selecting the circle  219 . 
         [0071]    Within the remainder of the window  201 , two rings  221  and  223  and a circle  225  are displayed, each of which has a distinct radius. The outer ring  221  is equally divided into twelve sections  227 , each of which presents a symbol representing a Zodiac Sign. According to one embodiment, each of the sections  227  also presents symbols representing those of the Seasons, Natural Elements, Day and Night, and Genders affiliated with the presented Zodiac Sign, wherein the symbols serve the purpose of demonstrating these affiliations. A player may select one of the twelve Zodiac Signs by selecting a corresponding one of the sections  227 . As for the innermost ring  223 , it is equally divided into four quadrants  229  presenting symbols representing Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. The innermost and outermost rings  221  and  223  are aligned such that each Zodiac Signs is aligned with a Season to which it is affiliated. A player may select a category of Zodiac Signs affiliated with either one the Seasons by selecting a corresponding one of the quadrants  229 . Finally, the circle  225  is displayed within the inner edge of the ring  223 , and is equally divided into two semicircles  231 , each of which is affiliated with either one of Day and Night. A player may select a category of Zodiac Signs affiliated with either one of Day and Night by selecting a corresponding one of the semicircles  231 . 
         [0072]    Once players select a category of Zodiac Signs or the alignment pattern, they may wish to consult the payment schedule associated to their selection, and may do so by selecting the information button  210 , in response to which a payment schedule is displayed on the station  101 . Referring now to  FIG. 3 , there is illustrated a pane  301  that is displayed on the station  101  when the player selects the section  227  associated to the Cancer Zodiac Sign and the information button  210 . Displayed at the centre of the pane  301  is a table  303  describing a payment schedule for outcomes pertaining to the Cancer Zodiac Sign. The table  303  comprises two columns  305  and  307 ; the column  305  specifies a number of Planets aligned with the section  227  associated to the Cancer Zodiac Sign, and the column  307 , a corresponding multiplication factor. According to the table  303 , alignments of one, two, three, four, five, and six Planets with the Cancer Zodiac Sign yield payout factors of 1, 5, 20, 100, 1000, and 2500 which, with wagers in the amount of five dollars, would earn players 5, 25, 100, 500, 5000, and 12500 dollars respectively. 
         [0073]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , there is illustrated a pane  401  that is displayed on the station  101  when the player selects the circle  219  associated to the alignment pattern and the information button  210 . Displayed at the centre of the pane  401  is a table  403  describing a payment schedule for outcomes pertaining to Alignment. The table  403  comprises two columns  405  and  407 ; the column  405  specifies a number of Planets aligned with each other, and the column  407 , a corresponding multiplication factor. According to the table  403 , alignments of one, two, three, four, five, and six Planets with each other yield payout factors of 0, 0, 0, 15, 50, and 250 which, with wagers in the amount of five dollars, would earn players 0, 0, 0, 75, 250, and 1250 dollars respectively. 
         [0074]    Referring now to  FIG. 29 , there is illustrated a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for placing wagers on potential outcomes of a game of chance according to one embodiment of the invention. The game specifications store  2603  provides all wagers options to a first interface controller  2901 , a second interface controller  2903 , and a third interface controller  2905 . 
         [0075]    The first interface controller  2901  causes a display of potential outcomes along a first ring, the second interface controller  2903  causes a display of groups of potential outcomes along a second ring, the third interface controller  2905  causes a display of groups of potential outcomes along a third ring on the station  101 , wherein all three rings are concentric. The station  101  receives a wager on one of the displayed potential outcomes or displayed groups of potential outcomes, and provides the wager to a corresponding one of the first, second, and third interface controller  2901 ,  2903 , and  2905 . After receiving the wagers, the first interface controller  2901  causes a display of a circular indicator overlapping each potential outcome on which a wager has been placed, the second interface controller  2903  causes a display of a circular indicator overlapping each group of potential outcomes on which a wager has been placed, and the third interface controller  2905  causes a display of a circular indicator overlapping each group of potential outcomes on which a wager has been placed. Each of the circular indicators specifies the amount wagered on the corresponding potential outcome or group of potential outcomes. While the apparatus has been described as involving three interface controllers, it can involve a lesser or greater number of interface controllers. Furthermore, while the display of potential outcomes and groups thereof has been described as positioned along rings, it can be positioned along other closed shapes, such as concentric square frames. 
         [0076]    The resulting wager interface is illustrated in  FIG. 2 . Immediately below the ring  221  are displayed five circular buttons  233  the selection of which increases the amount wagered by 1, 5, 10, 25, and 100 dollars respectively. A circular indicator is displayed as overlapping the selected one of the sections  227 , quadrants  215  and  229 , semicircles  217  and  231 , and the circle  219 , the circular indicator informing the player of the total amount wagered. However, if following the aforementioned manipulation, the amount to be wagered displayed in the circular indicator is not to the player&#39;s satisfaction, it may be erased by selecting a button  235  displayed below the indicator  209 . Alternatively, the last amount added to the wager indicated in the circular indicator may be undone by selecting a button  237 . 
         [0077]    In traditional Roulette games, a winning outcome consists in an alignment of one ball with one of a set of reference points. However, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, wagers may be placed on series of outcomes that exclusively involve alignments of at least two balls with respect to sets of reference points, whereby a greater sense of near-win is imparted to players. For instance, of the six possible numbers of Planets aligned with members of the Water group, the four winning ones consist in an alignment of at least two Planets with Signs affiliated thereto. As for the two losing outcomes, the first one excludes any alignment of Planets with a corresponding Sign while the second one consists in the alignment of exactly one Planet with a corresponding Sign. While none of the two losing outcomes reward wagers placed on Water, the latter is of greater entertainment value as it is closer to a winning outcome. 
         [0078]    During this first phase, although the attention of the players is mainly focused on their stations  101 , a visual interface is nonetheless displayed on the communal panel  103 . The visual interface is generated by an apparatus illustrated in  FIG. 30 , and serves the purpose of identifying in real-time the stations  101  from which each wager is placed. Upon receiving a wager from a player, the first station  101  sends a wager signal to a wager sequencer  3001 , the wager signal identifying the wager and the first station  101 . Similarly, upon receiving a wager from a player, the second station  101  sends a wager signal to the wager sequencer  3001 , the wager signal identifying the wager and the second station  101 . The wager sequencer  3001  provides the wager signals received from the stations  101  successively, in the order in which they were provided by the first and second stations  101  to an interface controller  2609 , which causes a real-time display of visual indicators identifying the stations  101  from which each of the wagers was placed. 
         [0079]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , there is illustrated a visual interface  501  displayed on the communal panel  103  during the first phase, as generated by the apparatus presented in  FIG. 30 . The interface  501  comprises a ring  505  equally divided into twelve sections  507 , each of which presents a symbol representing one of the twelve Signs. A substantially circular symbol  509  represents the Sun. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, for each wager placed by a player, a light beam  511  is displayed on the panel  103  as projected from the corresponding station  101  towards the Sun  509 . The purpose of the beams consists in providing a clear, intuitive, and entertaining indication as to the stations  101  from which and the times at which wagers are placed during the first phase, thereby promoting excitement among the players.  FIG. 5  and  FIG. 6  illustrate two states of the interface to be successively displayed on the communal panel  103  during the initial phase of the game. In  FIG. 5 , two light beams  511  are displayed as projected from two distinct stations  101 , wherein each one is indicative of a wager placed from a corresponding one of the stations  101 . In  FIG. 6 , on the other hand, the two previous beams  511  are shown during later stages of their journey towards the Sun  509  and a new light beam  601  is displayed as projected from a third one of the stations  101 , wherein the new beam  601  is indicative of a wager subsequent to the previous two and placed from the third station  101 . It will be appreciated that visual indicators other than the beams  511  and  601  can be used to indicate that a wager has been placed from a specific one of the stations  101 . According to one embodiment, the visual indicator is a symbol of the selected wager option, and the size of the symbol indicates the size of the wager. 
         [0080]    Upon expiry of the initial phase, players are informed that they may no longer place wagers; however, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the window  201  remains displayed for the purpose of providing players with an indication as to their wagers while they wait for the game&#39;s results to be displayed on the communal panel  103 . Since wagers are not allowed during this second phase of the game, the interactivity of the window  201  is disabled.  FIG. 7  illustrates the window  201  to be displayed on the station  101  during the second phase of the game, wherein four circular indicators  701  overlap the quadrant  215  associated with Water, the semicircle  217  associated with Male, the sections  227  associated with Scorpio, and the circle  219  associated with the alignment pattern to remind the player of the 5, 20, 12, and 5 dollars respectively wagered on corresponding wager options. 
         [0081]    Referring back to  FIG. 27 , during a second phase of the game, a predetermined number of outcomes are randomly selected from a plurality of available outcomes in a step  2703 . It is important to note that within the context of an embodiment of the game in which each outcome designates both a Zodiac Sign and a position, the selection of a predetermined number of outcomes results in a selection of the predetermined number of positions referred to in a step  2805  of  FIG. 28 . 
         [0082]    Referring back to  FIG. 26 , the game specifications store  2603  provides all potential outcomes to the game controller  2607 , which randomly selects one of the provided outcomes. The game controller  2607  iterates through the selection process until a predetermined number of outcomes are randomly selected. The number of iterations with respect to the number of potential outcomes is such that each of the potential outcomes has odds equal to or greater than 25% of being selected. According to one embodiment, the odds are at least equal to or greater than 30%. 
         [0083]    According to one embodiment, the game controller  2607  comprises a random number generator for selecting each of the randomly selected outcomes. According to another embodiment, the game controller  2607  comprises a ball and a roulette wheel, and the selection process is achieved by propelling the ball around a track of the wheel, and identifying the indentation of the wheel in which the ball lands as the randomly selected outcome. The game controller  2607  provides each of the selected outcomes to an interface controller  2609 , which causes a display of the selected outcomes to the players. 
         [0084]    With respect to the version of the game described herein, and still during the second phase, a component of the communal system, namely the Draw Module, or the game controller  2607 , randomly selects one of the twelve Signs with which each of the six Planets is to be aligned following its revolutions around the Sun  509 . While the Signs are selected, the attention of the players is called to the communal panel  103  as the visual interface  501  that had been displayed during the first phase is progressively modified. 
         [0085]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , six equally-spaced, concentric rings are positioned between the Sun  509  and the ring  505 , each of which represents the orbit  801  of one of six Planets  803 , the modification consisting in the additional display of six circular symbols aligned with the Sun  509 , each of which represents one of the Planets  803  positioned on its orbit  801 . 
         [0086]    As mentioned herein above, by reducing the number of constant reference points the complexity of the game is decreased, which is particularly advantageous as it increases the speed with which new players learn the rules of the game and the ease with which established players follow the course of a game. However if the number of constant reference points of a traditional Roulette game were to be reduced in a straightforward manner, the probability of each outcome would increase and the payout factors associated thereto would decrease, which would likely compromise the appeal of the game to at least some of the patrons. Therefore, and in accordance with the present invention, the number of balls is increased to provide for low-probability outcomes, at least some of which yield payout factors of substantial magnitude, wherein each of the outcomes is a compound of higher probability events, and whereby the reduction of the number of constant reference points does not compromise the appeal of the game. As a matter of fact, the particular embodiment described herein involves six balls and twelve reference points, thereby providing for outcomes having lower probabilities and yielding greater payout factors than the lowest probability outcomes of traditional Roulette games. Furthermore, the combination of a lesser number of reference points and a greater number of balls provides for a wider variety of high-probability outcomes, at least some of which are associated to moderate payout factors, in comparison with traditional Roulette-based games. It will be appreciated that a person skilled in the art of game probabilities will determine that although each of the twelve outcomes is selected 0.5 times on average, the probability that an outcome is selected at least once is less than 50%. In fact, the probability that none of the six random selections matches a specific outcome is approximately 60%. Also, the probability that an outcome is selected exactly once is 28%, twice, 7%, three times, 0.9%, four times, 0.06%, five times, 0.002%, and six times, 0.00003%. By multiplying the number of selections with the corresponding probabilities, the skilled person would reach the average number of selections, namely 0.5. 
         [0087]    Following their display on the communal panel  103 , the Planets  803  are simultaneously set in motion along their orbits  801  and revolve around the Sun  509  as a function of their respective speed and rotational direction, as illustrated in  FIG. 9 . After a few revolutions around the Sun  509 , the Planets  803  successively reach their final destinations, which had been previously selected by the game controller  2607 . In the example illustrated in  FIG. 10 , three of the six Planets  803  are displayed as having reached their final destinations, one of which is aligned with the section  507  assigned to Taurus and two of which are aligned with the section  507  assigned to Scorpio, while the others are displayed as pursuing their revolutions around the Sun  509 , as indicated by their motion arrows  1001 .  FIG. 11  illustrates the final arrangement of the Planets  803  along their respective orbits  801 ; three of them are respectively aligned with the sections  507  assigned to Taurus, Aquarius, and Capricorn while the remaining three are aligned with the section  507  assigned to Scorpio. 
         [0088]    Referring back to  FIG. 27 , and according to a step  2705 , as outcomes are randomly selected, they are compared with the desired outcome in order to determine the number of times the desired outcome is selected during a predetermined number of plays. If the desired outcome is selected at least once, and according to a step  2709 , a payout is calculated as a function of the wager and the number of times the desired outcome is selected. Finally, in a step  2711 , the calculated payout is provided to the player. According to one embodiment, the payout factor increases with each selection of the desired outcome. Depending on the number of potential outcomes with respect to the number of selections, a sufficient number of selections of the desired outcome can be assigned a payout factor greater than 100 or 1000. 
         [0089]    Referring back to  FIG. 26 , as outcomes are selected by the game controller  2607 , they are provided to a win controller  2605 , which compares them to the desired outcome of the wager selection provided by the station  101 . For each match, the win controller  2605  provides a win signal along with the wager selection to a multiple game win collector  2611 , which counts the number of win signals provided for each wager selection over the course of a predetermined number of plays. The total number of win signals for each wager selection is provided to a multiple game play payout controller  2613 , which calculates the payout, if any, and provides the payout to the station  101 . 
         [0090]    Referring back to  FIG. 28 , and according to a step  2807 , the number of combinations of selected positions forming the defined pattern is counted. If at least one combination forms at least one of the defined pattern, and according to a step  2811 , a payout is calculated as a function of the wager, the number of combinations forming the defined pattern, and the number of positions included in each of the combinations. 
         [0091]    Referring back to  FIG. 26 , once the win controller  2605  is provided with all selected outcomes, the win controller  2605  searches for the defined pattern within the corresponding positions, and provides a win signal for each identified pattern to the multiple game win collector  2611 , which combines the win signals. The latter signals are provided to the multiple game play payout controller  2613 , which provides a payout to the station  101 . 
         [0092]    Once the results of the draw are generated and displayed on the communal panel  103 , the players are lead to the third and final phase of the game during which the windows  201  displayed on the stations  101  demonstrate the manner in which the results of the draw are to be interpreted.  FIG. 12  illustrates the window  201  as it specifies the results of the draw, winning outcomes established as a function of the results, and gains registered on the station  101  on which it is displayed. 
         [0093]    Referring now to  FIG. 12 , within the window  201 , six circular markers  1201 , each of which represents one of the six Planets  803  displayed on the communal panel  103 , are successively displayed along the ring  221  as the Planets  803  reach their final destinations. The markers  1201  are aligned with specific sections  227  of the ring  221  to reflect alignments of the Planets  803  and the sections  507  assigns to the Signs displayed on the communal panel  103 . Furthermore, at least some sections of the rings  211 ,  221 ,  223 , and the circles  213 ,  219 , and  225  displayed within the window  201  are highlighted to inform players of those of the categories for which winning outcomes had been reached. 
         [0094]    According to one embodiment, there is displayed on the station  101  a results pane divided in rows, each of which identifies the category to which one of the winning outcomes pertains, the number of the Planets  803  aligned with the sections  507  assigned to members of the category, as well as the corresponding multiplication factor. Also, and still within the results pane, each row describing a winning outcome pertaining to a category on which the player had wagered is highlighted and each immediately following row identifies the wagered amount as well as the amount to be credited to the player&#39;s account. 
         [0095]    In order to avoid cluttered panes, and according to the present invention, winning outcomes are demonstrated in a successive manner thereby promoting an understanding of available betting or wager options and their associated probabilities among players. Referring to  FIG. 31 , there is provided a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for demonstrating winning wager options or groups thereof in a successive manner. 
         [0096]    The game controller  2607  provides randomly selected outcomes, and a game specifications store  2603 , wager options to a winning wager options controller  3105 , which compares the outcomes and options and identifies winning ones of the wager options. The latter options are provided to a winning wager options sequencer  3107 , which groups winning wagers according to a predetermined criterion, and provides each of the formed groups to a payout controller  3109  and an interface controller  3111 . The stations  101  provide placed wagers to the payout controller  3109 , which compares them with the winning wager options, identifies winning ones of the stations  101  for each group of winning wager options, and provides the identity of the winning stations  101  to the interface controller  3111 . Finally, the interface controller  3111  causes a display of a most recently provided group of winning wager options and visual indicators identifying the winning stations  101  corresponding to the group. According to the preferred embodiment, the visual indicators also specify the payout provided to each of the winning stations  101 . According to one embodiment, each group of wager options comprises at least two wager options. According to another embodiment, each group of wager options comprises exactly one wager option. 
         [0097]    Within the context of the specific embodiment described, the third phase is divided into six sub-phases, a first of which deals with winning outcomes or winning wager options pertaining to Signs, a second of which deals with those pertaining to Seasons, a third of which deals with Natural Elements, a fourth of which deals with Day and Night, a fifth of which deals with Gender, and a sixth of which deals with Alignment.  FIG. 13  to  FIG. 18  illustrate six states of the user interface window  201 , each of which is to be displayed during a corresponding one of the six sub-phases. 
         [0098]      FIG. 13  illustrates a state of the window  201  identifying winning outcomes or winning wager options pertaining to Zodiac Signs. Since the Planets  803  are aligned with Capricorn, Aquarius, and Taurus, and Scorpio, those of the sections  227  of the ring  221  representing the latter Signs are highlighted. 
         [0099]      FIG. 14  illustrates a state of the window  201  identifying winning wager options pertaining to Seasons. Since two Planets  803  are aligned with two Signs affiliated with Winter, namely Capricorn and Aquarius, and three Planets  803  are aligned with Scorpio, which is affiliated to Fall, those of the sections  229  assigned to Winter and Fall are highlighted. 
         [0100]      FIG. 15  illustrates a state of the window  201  identifying winning wager options pertaining to Natural Elements. Since two of the Planets  803  are aligned with Zodiac Signs affiliated with Earth, namely Capricorn and Taurus, and three Planets  803  are aligned with Scorpio, which is affiliated with Water, those of the quadrants  229  assigned to Earth and Water are highlighted. It is important to note that in order for the draw to yield a winning wager option pertaining to Natural Elements, at least two of the six Planets  803  have to be aligned with Signs affiliated with a same one of the Natural Elements. For instance, the alignment of one of the Planets  803  with a Sign affiliated with Air, namely Aquarius, does not yield a winning wager option and therefore, the one of the quadrants  215  assigned to Air is not highlighted. 
         [0101]      FIG. 16  illustrates a state of the window  201  identifying winning outcomes or winning wager options pertaining to Day and Night. Since five Planets  803  are aligned with Signs affiliated with Night, namely one with Capricorn, another with Aquarius, and three with Scorpio, the one of the sections  231  assigned to Night is highlighted. 
         [0102]      FIG. 17  illustrates a state of the window  201  identifying winning wager options pertaining to Gender. Since five of the Planets  803  are aligned with three Zodiac Signs affiliated with Female, namely Capricorn, Taurus, and Scorpio, the one of the sections  217  assigned to Female is highlighted. 
         [0103]      FIG. 18  illustrates a state of the window  201  identifying winning wager options pertaining to the alignment pattern. Since four of the six Planets  803  are aligned, the circle  219  is highlighted. 
         [0104]    In order to avoid a cluttered visual interface, and according to one embodiment of the present invention, winning outcomes or winning wager options are demonstrated in a successive manner thereby promoting an understanding of available betting options and their associated probabilities among players. More specifically, the outcome phase is divided into six phases, a first of which deals with Zodiac Signs, a second of which deals with Seasons, a third of which deals with Natural Elements, a fourth of which deals with Gender, a fifth of which deals with Day and Night, and a last of which deals with the Planets  803  themselves.  FIG. 19  to  FIG. 25  illustrate the six states of the visual interface  501 , each of which is to be displayed during a corresponding one of the six sub-phases. 
         [0105]      FIG. 19  illustrates a state of the visual interface  501  identifying winning outcomes, or winning wager options pertaining to Zodiac Signs. Since the Planets  803  are aligned with those of the sections  507  assigned to Capricorn, Aquarius, Taurus, and Scorpio, glowing line segments  1901  extending from the Sun  809 , through the corresponding Planets  803 , and to those of the sections  507  assigned to Capricorn, Taurus, Aquarius and Scorpio are displayed. 
         [0106]    As for  FIG. 20 , it illustrates a state of the visual interface  501  identifying winning outcomes or wager options pertaining to Seasons. Since two of the Planets  803  are aligned with those of the sections  507  assigned to Signs affiliated with Winter, namely Capricorn and Aquarius, glowing line segments  2001  are displayed as connecting the aforementioned Planets  803  the Sun  809 . Furthermore, since three of the Planets  803  are aligned with one of the sections  507  assigned to Scorpio, which is affiliated with Fall, aligned and glowing line segments  2001  connecting the aforementioned ones of the Planets  803  and the Sun  809  are displayed. 
         [0107]    Referring now to  FIG. 21 , there is illustrated a state of the visual interface  501  identifying winning outcomes or wager options pertaining to Natural Elements. Since two of the Planets  803  are aligned with two of the sections  507  assigned to Signs affiliated with Earth, namely Capricorn and Taurus, three glowing line segments  2101  connecting the aforementioned ones of the Planets  803  and the Sun  809  are displayed. Furthermore, since three of the Planets  803  are aligned with one of the sections  507  assigned to Scorpio, a Sign affiliated with Water, aligned and glowing line segments  2101  connecting the aforementioned Planets  803  and the Sun  809  are displayed. 
         [0108]    Referring now to  FIG. 22 , there is illustrated a state of the visual interface  501  identifying winning outcomes or wager options pertaining to Day and Night. Since five of the Planets  803  are aligned with three of the sections  507  assigned to Signs affiliated with Night, namely two aligned with Capricorn and Aquarius respectively, and three aligned with Scorpio, glowing line segments  2201  connecting the aforementioned ones of the Planets  803  and the Sun  809  are displayed. 
         [0109]    Referring now to  FIG. 23 , there is illustrated a state of the visual interface  501  identifying winning outcomes or wager options pertaining to Gender. Since five of the Planets  803  are aligned with three of the sections  507  assigned to Signs affiliated with Female, namely two aligned with Capricorn and Taurus respectively, and three aligned with Scorpio, glowing line segments  2301  connecting the aforementioned Planets  803  and the Sun  809  are displayed. 
         [0110]    As for  FIG. 24 , it illustrates a state of the visual interface  501  identifying winning outcomes or wager options pertaining to the Planets  803  or Alignment. Since four of the six Planets  803  are aligned, glowing line segments  2401  connecting the aforementioned ones of the Planets  803  and the Sun  809  are displayed. 
         [0111]    Referring now to  FIG. 25 , once all winning outcomes or wager options have been displayed on the visual interface  501 , the orbits  801  and light beams  2501  emanating from the Sun  809  and projected towards those of the stations  101  from which wagers on winning outcomes had been placed are displayed thereon. In the specific case illustrated in  FIG. 25 , three light beams  2501  emanating from the Sun  809  are projected towards three different ones of the stations  101 . 
         [0112]    While the game has been described as involving six rotating balls, it may be configured to involve a lesser or greater number of rotating balls, as long as the number of rotating balls is greater than one. Furthermore, while the game has been described as involving twelve constant and six variable reference points, it may be configured to involve different numbers of reference points, as long as the number of constant reference points is lesser than twenty-five. According to one embodiment of the invention, the number of constant reference points or potential outcomes is greater than 4 and smaller than 26. According to another embodiment, the number of constant reference points or potential outcomes is greater than 7 and smaller than 17, and the number of variable reference points or the predetermined number of plays is greater than 3 and smaller than 9. 
         [0113]    Furthermore, while the draw has been described as generated and displayed electronically, it may be generated and displayed manually; for instance, a plurality of balls may be propelled manually along their respective tracks, wherein the tracks belong to a series of concentric cylinders. Also, while the game has been described as played on an apparatus comprising four individual stations, it may be played on an apparatus comprising a lesser or greater number of stations, or connected to a network of stations  101  whereby a larger number of players may participate. Also while the individual stations  101  have been described as enabling players to place wagers on a draw generated by and displayed on a communal panel  103 , each of these stations  101  may generate and display their own, distinct draws, wherein a player may place wagers on draws generated by and displayed on the communal panel  103  as well as those generated and displayed by the individual station  101 . 
         [0114]      FIG. 26  is a schematic block diagram of a generic system illustrating how some embodiments operate. The apparatus can be implemented using a standard computer, display screens, and input devices for wager value transactions and wager selection for each series of multiple games. The functional blocks illustrated represent a combination of hardware and software. The game controller  2607  controls the play of a basic game of chance according to its ordinary rules. The chances of winning a single game are much less than 25%. Therefore, to improve the interest of the player playing the game, the multiple game win collector  2611  collects the results of multiple games, and the payout controller  2613  provides a payout with a chance of winning of at least about 25%, even if the payout is only the wager itself. However, the payout controller  2613  also provides a payout of at least 100 times and preferably at least 1000 times the wager when multiple wins arise within the multiple games. 
         [0115]    According to the embodiment described above with reference to  FIG. 1  to  FIG. 31 , this system is configured to operate six games of a twelve symbol draw game. The graphics display shows the astrological theme roulette table with an animation of the six balls being determined approximately simultaneously.