Electronic device for facilitating user interactions with graphical user interface

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a display screen and a computing hardware. The computing hardware is operable to execute a software product, wherein executing the software product results in generating and rendering a graphical user interface on the display screen, the graphical user interface being configured to facilitate user interactions, the computing hardware, the software product and the graphical user interface being implemented on a gaming system, the gaming system comprising a game, wherein the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to present a first view on the graphical user interface, present one or more user-selectable graphical objects on the graphical user interface, detect a user's selection of one of the one or more of the user-selectable graphical objects to be deployed in the first view on the graphical user interface, detect a user's selection of a deploy point on the first view, and execute deployment of the one of the one or more of the user-selectable graphical objects to the first view of the graphical user interface, wherein other set of graphical objects emerge from the one or more user-selectable graphical object and enter to the first view from one or more areas in a proximity of the deploy point.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to gaming systems, and more specifically, to electronic devices for facilitating user interactions with a graphical user interface. Moreover, the present disclosure relates to methods of facilitating user interactions with a graphical user interface. Furthermore, the present disclosure also relates to software products stored on non-transitory (non-transient) machine-readable data storage media, wherein the software products are executable upon computing hardware of an electronic device to implement the aforesaid methods.

BACKGROUND

Today, various electronic devices have been developed to provide user-friendly interfaces for facilitating easy and quick user interaction. Examples of such electronic devices include, but are not limited to, smart phones, Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), phablet computers, tablet computers, Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers (UMPCs), Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), web pads, handheld Personal Computers (PCs), laptop computers, interactive entertainment computers, and gaming terminals. Most of these electronic devices include touch-sensitive display screens, which make them more user-friendly and easier to use.

In order to provide entertaining experience to users, various gaming systems may be implemented on such electronic devices. An important aspect of a gaming system implemented on an electronic device is an ease with which a user can interact with a user interface of a game to control various operations of the game.

FIG. 1is a schematic illustration of a known conventional user interface of an example gaming system for implementation on an electronic device;FIG. 1represents prior art. The example gaming system includes a war strategy game in which a user's purpose is to build and expand his/her territory, for example, by attacking one or more territories owned by other users or simulated opponents.

FIG. 1depicts an example game view100of the example gaming system. The example game view100shows an enemy territory being attacked by the user. The enemy territory includes a land region102and a shore region104. A plurality of target objects, depicted as a target object106aand a target object106binFIG. 1, are positioned in the land region102. The user is typically required to destroy the target objects106aand106bto defeat his/her enemy.

In order to attack the target objects106aand106b, the user deploys a plurality of war-ships on the shore region104, depicted as a war-ship108a, a war-ship108band a war-ship108cinFIG. 1(hereinafter collectively referred to as war-ships108).

Typically, the user may deploy the war-ships108by selecting a desired place on the shore region104, for example, by tapping with a finger or clicking with a pointer object. In an example situation where the user wishes to attack on the target object106a, before attacking the target object106b, the user deploys the war-ships108as close to the target region106aas is possible. The war-ships108may typically be deployed beside each other.

Consequently, troops emerging from the war-ships108aand108benter the enemy territory via target routes110aand110b, respectively, as shown inFIG. 1. These troops attack on the target object106a, as the user desired.

However, space available on the shore region104is often limited. In a situation where the war-ship108cis deployed after the war-ships108aand108bhave been deployed, the war-ship108cis forced to be deployed in a proximity of the target object106b, as shown inFIG. 1. The war-ship108cmay, for example, be deployed in a place from where both the targets106aand106bare substantially equally distant.

Consequently, troops emerging from the war-ship108chave two possible target routes, depicted as target routes110cand110d. The target route110cleads the troops to the target object106a, while the target route110dleads the troops to the target object106b. As the troops select a shortest target route from amongst the target routes110cand110dautomatically, it is not possible for the user to select a route from which the user would want the troops to enter. In a situation where the target route110dis the shortest target route, the troops emerging from the war-ship108cattack the target object106b, instead of the target object106a. This makes it impossible for the user to control deployment of these troops. As a result, the user may find it difficult to define a war strategy as per his/her desire.

Therefore, there exists a need for a graphical user interface that enables a user to define a strategy as per his/her desire.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure seeks to provide an electronic device.

The present disclosure also seeks to provide a method of facilitating user interactions with a graphical user interface.

In one aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an electronic device. The electronic device includes a display screen and a computing hardware. The computing hardware is operable to execute a software product, which results in generating and rendering a graphical user interface on the display screen. The graphical user interface is configured to facilitate user interactions. The computing hardware, the software product and the graphical user interface are implemented on a gaming system. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gaming system includes a war strategy game.

The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to present a first view of a map on the graphical user interface. The first view of the map displays an enemy territory. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is also configured to present one or more user-selectable graphical objects on the graphical user interface. The one or more user-selectable graphical objects may, for example, include one or more troop transportation units.

Additionally, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to detect a user's selection of one of the one or more troop transportation units to be deployed to attack the enemy territory, and detect a user's selection of a deploy point on the enemy territory. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to execute deployment of the one of the one or more troop transportation units on the enemy territory, upon detection of the user's selections. Consequently, troops emerging from the one of the one or more troop transportation units enter the enemy territory from one or more areas in a proximity of the deploy point.

Apart from the one or more troop transportation units, the one or more user-selectable graphical objects may also include one or more supplemental fires. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to detect a user's selection of one of the one or more supplemental fires to be fired, and detect a user's selection of a fire point on the enemy territory. Accordingly, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to execute firing of the one of the one or more supplemental fires on the fire point selected on the enemy territory, upon detection of the user's selections.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one of the one or more supplemental fires is a flash fire that, when fired, re-directs the troops to pass through one or more areas in a proximity of the fire point.

Moreover, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to levy a cost of usage of the one of the one or more supplemental fires. Optionally, the cost of usage may be substantially different for each usage of the one of the one or more supplemental fires. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cost of usage increases with each usage of the one of the one or more supplemental fires. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the cost of usage increases after the one of the one or more supplemental fires has been used a predefined number of times.

Moreover, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to present a second view of the map on the graphical user interface. The second view of the map displays one or more user-owned territories and one or more enemy territories. Accordingly, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to enable a user's selection of one of the one or more enemy territories to be attacked.

The second view of the map optionally includes one or more visible areas and one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas. In such a situation, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to present a user-selectable map-resource object on the graphical user interface, detect a user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object, and present a third view of the map on the graphical user interface. Based at least partially upon the user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object, at least one of the one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas of the second view of the map is made visible on the third view of the map.

In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the user-selectable map-resource object includes a radar. Accordingly, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to present a user-selectable upgrade option on the graphical user interface, and detect a user's selection of the user-selectable upgrade option. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to upgrade the user-selectable map-resource object, based at least partially upon the user's selection of the user-selectable upgrade option. Consequently, the at least one of the one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas is made visible when the user-selectable map-resource object is upgraded.

The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to levy a cost of usage of the user-selectable map-resource object.

In order to detect user's selections, the electronic device also includes a user input interface rendered over the graphical user interface. The user input interface is configured to detect an input corresponding to moving a pointer object, clicking or tapping the pointer object, or swiping a touch-sensitive object over the graphical user interface.

Moreover, the electronic device optionally includes a database for substantially continuously recording and updating changes in status of the one or more user-selectable graphical objects. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is coupled to the database. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to resume the status of the one or more user-selectable graphical objects to their last updated status in the database, in case of interruptions in the operable state of the graphical user interface.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of electronic devices are coupled in communication with a server via a communication network. Graphical user interfaces are generated temporally concurrently on display screens of the plurality of electronic devices, to facilitate interactions of a plurality of users with the graphical user interfaces. Beneficially, the graphical user interfaces generated on the plurality of electronic devices are coordinated and synchronized through the server, and updated on the plurality of electronic devices concurrently with time.

Examples of these electronic devices include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, smart telephones, Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), tablet computers, Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers (UMPCs), phablet computers, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), web pads, Personal Computers (PCs), Handheld PCs, laptop computers, desktop computers, Network-Attached Storage (NAS) devices, large-sized touch screens with embedded PCs, and interactive entertainment devices, such as game consoles, Television (TV) sets and Set-Top Boxes (STBs).

In another aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method of facilitating user interactions with the graphical user interface.

In yet another aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a software product stored on non-transitory (non-transient) machine-readable data storage media, wherein the software product is executable upon computing hardware of the electronic device for implementing the aforementioned method. The software product may, for example, be downloadable from a software application store to the electronic device.

Embodiments of the present disclosure substantially eliminate, or at least partially address, the aforementioned problems in the prior art, and enable users to control deployment of troops, thereby enabling the users to define a war strategy as per their desire.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although the best mode of carrying out the present disclosure has been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an electronic device for facilitating a gaming environment. The electronic device includes a display screen and a computing hardware. The computing hardware is operable to execute a software product, which results in generating and rendering a graphical user interface on the display screen. The graphical user interface is configured to facilitate user interactions. The computing hardware, the software product and the graphical user interface are implemented on a gaming system. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gaming system includes a war strategy game.

The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to present a first view of a map on the graphical user interface. The first view of the map displays an enemy territory. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is also configured to present one or more user-selectable graphical objects on the graphical user interface. The one or more user-selectable graphical objects may, for example, include one or more troop transportation units.

Additionally, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to detect a user's selection of one of the one or more troop transportation units to be deployed to attack the enemy territory, and detect a user's selection of a deploy point on the enemy territory. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to execute deployment of the one of the one or more troop transportation units on the enemy territory, upon detection of the user's selections. Consequently, troops emerging from the one of the one or more troop transportation units enter the enemy territory from one or more areas in a proximity of the deploy point.

Apart from the one or more troop transportation units, the one or more user-selectable graphical objects may also include one or more supplemental fires. The one or more supplemental fires may, for example, include one or more weapons, one or more ammunitions, one or more flash fires, and the like. The one or more supplemental fires may be fired from one of the one or more troop transportation units and/or a battle-ship positioned in a sea, for example, to supplement the troops.

The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to detect a user's selection of one of the one or more supplemental fires to be fired, and detect a user's selection of a fire point on the enemy territory. Accordingly, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to execute firing of the one of the one or more supplemental fires on the fire point selected on the enemy territory, upon detection of the user's selections.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one of the one or more supplemental fires is a flash fire that, when fired, re-directs the troops to pass through one or more areas in a proximity of the fire point.

Moreover, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to levy a cost of usage of the one of the one or more supplemental fires. Optionally, the cost of usage may be substantially different for each usage of the one of the one or more supplemental fires. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cost of usage increases with each usage of the one of the one or more supplemental fires. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the cost of usage increases after the one of the one or more supplemental fires has been used a predefined number of times.

Moreover, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to present a second view of the map on the graphical user interface. The second view of the map displays one or more user-owned territories and one or more enemy territories. Accordingly, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is configured to enable a user's selection of one of the one or more enemy territories to be attacked.

The second view of the map optionally includes one or more visible areas and one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas. In such a situation, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to present a user-selectable map-resource object on the graphical user interface, detect a user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object, and present a third view of the map on the graphical user interface. Based at least partially upon the user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object, at least one of the one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas of the second view of the map is made visible on the third view of the map.

In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the user-selectable map-resource object includes a radar. Accordingly, the software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to present a user-selectable upgrade option on the graphical user interface, and detect a user's selection of the user-selectable upgrade option. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to upgrade the user-selectable map-resource object, based at least partially upon the user's selection of the user-selectable upgrade option. Consequently, the at least one of the one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas is made visible when the user-selectable map-resource object is upgraded.

The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to levy a cost of usage of the user-selectable map-resource object.

In order to detect user's selections, the electronic device also includes a user input interface rendered over the graphical user interface. The user input interface is configured to detect an input corresponding to moving a pointer object, clicking or tapping the pointer object, or swiping a touch-sensitive object over the graphical user interface.

Moreover, the electronic device optionally includes a database for substantially continuously recording and updating changes in status of the one or more user-selectable graphical objects. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is coupled to the database. The software product, when executed on the computing hardware, is optionally configured to resume the status of the one or more user-selectable graphical objects to their last updated status in the database, in case of interruptions in the operable state of the graphical user interface.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of electronic devices are coupled in communication with a server via a communication network. Graphical user interfaces are generated temporally concurrently on display screens of the plurality of electronic devices, to facilitate interactions of a plurality of users with the graphical user interfaces. Beneficially, the graphical user interfaces generated on the plurality of electronic devices are coordinated and synchronized through the server, and updated on the plurality of electronic devices concurrently with time.

Examples of these electronic devices include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, smart telephones, Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), tablet computers, Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers (UMPCs), phablet computers, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), web pads, Personal Computers (PCs), Handheld PCs, laptop computers, desktop computers, Network-Attached Storage (NAS) devices, large-sized touch screens with embedded PCs, and interactive entertainment devices, such as game consoles, Television (TV) sets and Set-Top Boxes (STBs).

Referring now to the drawings, particularly by their reference numbers,FIG. 2is a schematic illustration of an example network environment200that is suitable for practicing embodiments of the present disclosure. The network environment200includes one or more electronic devices, depicted as an electronic device202a, an electronic device202band an electronic device202cinFIG. 2(hereinafter collectively referred to as electronic devices202). The network environment200also includes a server204and a communication network206. The server204is coupled to a database208.

The network environment200may be implemented in various ways, depending on various possible scenarios. In one example scenario, the network environment200may be implemented by way of a spatially collocated arrangement of the server204and the database208. In another example scenario, the network environment200may be implemented by way of a spatially distributed arrangement of the server204and the database208coupled mutually in communication via the communication network206. In yet another example scenario, the server204and the database208may be implemented via cloud computing services.

The electronic devices202are coupled in communication with the server204via the communication network206. The communication network206can be a collection of individual networks, interconnected with each other and functioning as a single large network. Such individual networks may be wired, wireless, or a combination thereof. Examples of such individual networks include, but are not limited to, Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), Wireless LANs (WLANs), Wireless WANs (WWANs), Wireless MANs (WMANs), the Internet, second generation (2G) telecommunication networks, third generation (3G) telecommunication networks, fourth generation (4G) telecommunication networks, and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) networks.

Additionally or alternatively, the electronic devices202may use their own “Bluetooth” network, and connect to a “Bluetooth” server, to synchronize with other electronic devices. (“Bluetooth” is a registered trademark).

Examples of the electronic devices202include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, smart telephones, Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), tablet computers, Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers (UMPCs), phablet computers, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), web pads, Personal Computers (PCs), Handheld PCs, laptop computers, desktop computers, Network-Attached Storage (NAS) devices, large-sized touch screens with embedded PCs, and interactive entertainment devices, such as game consoles, Television (TV) sets and Set-Top Boxes (STBs).

The network environment200is suitable for operating various gaming systems, simulation systems, or other similar systems. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the network environment200is suitable for operating an online multiplayer gaming system.

In one embodiment, the network environment200is used to implement a thin-client game. Accordingly, the gaming system may be arranged in a manner that its functionality is implemented partly in the electronic devices202and partly in the server204.

In another embodiment, the network environment200is used to implement a thick-client game. According, the gaming system may be arranged in a manner that its functionality is implemented substantially in the electronic devices202.

In yet another embodiment, the network environment200is used to implement a web-based game. Accordingly, the gaming system may be arranged in a manner that its functionality is implemented substantially in the server204.

The electronic devices202may access the server204to download one or more new games or update one or more existing games.

Users associated with the electronic devices202play one or more games provided by the gaming system. The gaming system may enable the users to interact and/or share some information with each other.

Additionally, the gaming system may enable some or all of the users to play a game mutually, for example, against each other or as a team. Alternatively, the gaming system may enable the users to play their individual games irrespective of each other.

For illustration purposes, let us consider that a user A is associated with the electronic device202a, a user B is associated with the electronic device202b, and a user C is associated with the electronic device202c. Let us also consider an example situation where the gaming system enables the users A and B to play a game mutually, for example, against each other. Accordingly, graphical user interfaces are generated temporally concurrently on display screens of the electronic devices202aand202b, to facilitate interactions of the users A and B with their graphical user interfaces, respectively. In the example situation, the server204coordinates and synchronizes the graphical user interfaces generated on the electronic devices202aand202b, and updates the graphical user interfaces on the electronic devices202aand202bconcurrently with time.

Now, let us consider another example situation where the gaming system enables the user C to play a game solitarily. In such a situation, the electronic device202cneed not be coupled to the server204substantially continuously, for example, during playing of the game. The electronic device202cmay be coupled to the server204, for example, when downloading the game from the server. Additionally, the electronic device202cmay be coupled to the server204periodically or randomly, for example, to receive updates from the server204.

Furthermore, the server204stores game-related information in the database208. The game-related information may, for example, include at least one of: accounts of the users, credits of the users, scores of the users, status of games being played by the users, screen-shots of the games, game-related parameters, game views being used by the users, game levels at which the users are playing, versions of the games, and/or associated time-stamps.

Beneficially, the electronic devices202and/or the server204substantially continuously record and update changes in the status of the games being played by the users in the database208. The electronic devices202are optionally configured to resume the status of the games to their last updated status in the database208, in case of interruptions in the operable state of the graphical user interfaces.

Optionally, the game-related information, including information about the changes in the status of the games, may be sent to the server204in a form of data packages. A data package may typically include a header, a payload and a checksum. The checksum can be a function of the payload. Alternatively, the checksum can be a unique identifier of the user, such as a username being used by the user. Those skilled in the art will understand that an appropriate checksum function or a checksum algorithm may be applied to a plurality of data packages to obtain the checksum, while the game is being played.

In order to avoid possible frauds, the checksum corresponding to a particular data package can be recomputed at any point of time, and compared with the checksum stored with that particular data package. Thus, including the checksum in the data package potentially reduces occurrences of frauds in the game.

FIG. 2is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. It is to be understood that the specific designation for the network environment200is provided as an example and is not to be construed as limiting the network environment200to specific numbers, types, or arrangements of electronic devices, servers, communication networks and databases. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3is a schematic illustration of various components of an electronic device300, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device300includes, but is not limited to, a data memory302, a computing hardware such as a processor304, Input/Output (I/O) devices306, a network interface308, and a system bus310that operatively couples various components including the data memory302, the processor304, the I/O devices306and the network interface308. The electronic device300also includes a power source (not shown inFIG. 3) for supplying electrical power to the various components of the electronic device300. The power source may, for example, include a rechargeable battery.

The data memory302optionally includes non-removable memory, removable memory, or a combination thereof. The non-removable memory, for example, includes Random-Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), flash memory, or a hard drive. The removable memory, for example, includes flash memory cards, memory sticks, or smart cards.

The data memory302stores a software product312, while the processor304is operable to execute the software product312. Executing the software product312on the processor304results in generating and rendering a graphical user interface on the display screen. The graphical user interface is configured to facilitate user interactions.

The computing hardware, the software product312and the graphical user interface are optionally implemented on a gaming system. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gaming system includes a war strategy game.

Accordingly, the I/O devices306facilitate a user input interface rendered over the graphical user interface. The user input interface is optionally configured to detect an input corresponding to moving a pointer object, clicking or tapping the pointer object, or swiping a touch-sensitive object over the graphical user interface.

The I/O devices306include a display screen for presenting graphical images to a user of the electronic device300. Beneficially, the display screen may be a touch-sensitive display screen that is operable to provide the user input interface. The touch-sensitive display screen is operable to receive tactile inputs from the user. These tactile inputs may, for example, include clicking, tapping, pointing, moving, pressing and/or swiping with a finger or a touch-sensitive object like a pen.

The touch-sensitive display screen is optionally configured to sense a pressure applied by the finger or the touch-sensitive object. In one example, the touch-sensitive display screen may be a capacitive touch screen that is operable to detect changes in capacitance. In another example, the touch-sensitive display screen may be a resistive touch screen that is operable to detect changes in resistance. In yet another example, the touch-sensitive display screen is an optical touch screen that is operable to detect changes in reflectivity.

Upon detecting the tactile inputs, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to identify a gesture related to the tactile inputs. The gesture may take into account at least one of: a force applied by the user, a pressure applied by the user, a speed with which the pointer object was moved, a duration for which the gesture was applied, and/or a position on the touch-sensitive display screen where the gesture was applied. Consequently, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to analyse the gesture, and to apply an appropriate action corresponding to the gesture.

Additionally or alternatively, the I/O devices306include a mouse, a keyboard or a joystick that is operable to receive inputs corresponding to clicking, pointing, and/or moving a pointer object on the graphical user interface.

Moreover, the I/O devices306may also include a speaker for providing an audio output to the user, and a microphone for receiving an audio input from the user.

Optionally, the electronic device300includes non-transient data storage arrangements, for example, such as a database (not shown inFIG. 3). The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally coupled to the database. The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to substantially continuously record and update changes in status of a game being played by the user in the database. The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to resume the status of the game to its last updated status in the database, in case of interruptions in the operable state of the graphical user interface.

Additionally, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, may store game-related information in the database. The game-related information may, for example, include at least one of: an account of the user, credits of the user, scores of the user, the status of the game, screen-shots of the game, game-related parameters, a game view being used by the user, a game level at which the user is playing, a version of the game, and/or associated time-stamps.

Moreover, the network interface308optionally allows the electronic device300to upload the game-related information to a remote server (not shown inFIG. 3), for example, via a communication network (not shown inFIG. 3). Additionally, the network interface308may allow the electronic device300to access the remote server to download one or more new games or update one or more existing games.

Moreover, the network interface308optionally allows the electronic device300to communicate with other electronic devices, for example, via the communication network. The communication network may, for example, be a collection of individual networks, interconnected with each other and functioning as a single large network. Such individual networks may be wired, wireless, or a combination thereof. Examples of such individual networks include, but are not limited to, LANs, WANs, MANs, WLANs, WWANs, WMANs, 2G telecommunication networks, 3G telecommunication networks, 4G telecommunication networks, and WiMAX networks. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic device300may also use its own “Bluetooth” network, and connect to a “Bluetooth” server, to synchronize with the other electronic devices.

The electronic device300is optionally implemented by way of at least one of: a mobile phone, a smart telephone, an MID, a tablet computer, a UMPC, a phablet computer, a PDA, a web pad, a PC, a Handheld PC, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, an NAS device, a large-sized touch screen with an embedded PC, and an interactive entertainment device, such as a game console, a TV set and an STB.

FIG. 3is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. It is to be understood that the specific designation for the electronic device300is provided as an example and is not to be construed as limiting the electronic device300to specific numbers, types, or arrangements of modules and/or components of the electronic device300. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the electronic device300could be implemented as the electronic devices202, and vice versa.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4Dare illustrations of an example game view400of a gaming system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The gaming system may, for example, include a war strategy game in which a user's purpose is to expand his/her territory, for example, by attacking one or more enemy territories. An enemy territory may, for example, be a territory owned by another user or a simulated opponent.

For illustration purposes only, let us assume that the gaming system has been implemented on the electronic device300. The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to present the example game view400on the graphical user interface generated and rendered on the display screen of the electronic device300. The example game view400may, for example, be a first view of a map that displays an enemy territory being attacked by the user. The enemy territory includes a land region402and a shore region404, as shown inFIG. 4A. A plurality of target objects, depicted as a target object406aand a target object406binFIG. 4A, are positioned in the land region402. The target objects406aand406bmay, for example, include headquarters or other defence objects belonging to the enemy territory.

The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is also configured to present one or more user-selectable graphical objects on the graphical user interface. The one or more user-selectable graphical objects may be presented within a selection-menu area408on the graphical user interface, as shown inFIG. 4A. With reference toFIG. 4A, the selection-menu area408has been positioned in a proximity of a periphery of the graphical user interface. In one example, the selection-menu area408may be displayed substantially continuously during playing of the game. In another example, the selection-menu area408may be displayed as and when required, for example, when the user slides a pointer object towards the periphery of the graphical user interface.

The one or more user-selectable graphical objects include one or more troop transportation units, depicted as a troop transportation unit410a, a troop transportation unit410band a troop transportation unit410cinFIG. 4(hereinafter collectively referred to as troop transportation units410). Examples of the troop transportation units410include, but are not limited to, war-ships, war-planes, war-vessels, and war-crafts. Use of the troop transportation units410may not be limited to transportation of troops from a user-owned territory to the enemy territory, but may additionally or alternatively include carrying weapons, ammunitions and other supplies for the troops.

The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to detect a user's selection of one of the troop transportation units410to be deployed to attack the enemy territory, and detect a user's selection of a deploy point on the enemy territory. The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to execute deployment of the one of the troop transportation units410on the enemy territory, upon detection of the user's selections.

With reference toFIG. 4B, let us consider an example situation where the user selected a first deploy point412afor deploying the troop transportation unit410a, a second deploy point412bfor deploying the troop transportation unit410band a third deploy point412cfor deploying the troop transportation unit410c, for example, one after another. As shown inFIG. 4B, the troop transportation units410a,410band410care deployed as close to their respective deploy points412a,412band412cas possible on the shore region404. Beneficially, the troop transportation units410a,410band410care deployed to a free space that is nearest to their respective deploy points412a,412band412c.

Consequently, troops emerging from the troop transportation units410a,410band410center the enemy territory from one or more areas in proximities of their respective deploy points412a,412band412c. With reference toFIG. 4B, curved arrows414a,414band414cdepict target routes taken by the troops emerging from the troop transportation units410a,410band410c, respectively.

Moreover, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, may be configured to enable a user's selection of a type of troop to be deployed, for example, by providing one or more troop-type options on the selection-menu area408.

With reference toFIG. 4B, the troop transportation units410have been deployed from the shore region404. It is to be noted here that the deployment of the troop transportation units410is not limited to the shore region404. Troop transportation units, such as war-planes, may be deployed at any deploy point on the enemy territory.

Moreover, in another example situation, one of the target objects406aand406bmay be a defence object that applies various defence mechanisms, such as throwing flames or firing ammunitions, against the troops that have entered the enemy territory. In such a situation, the user may choose to supplement the troops, for example, by using one or more supplemental fires.

Accordingly, the one or more user-selectable graphical objects may include one or more supplemental fires. The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to detect a user's selection of one of the one or more supplemental fires to be fired, and detect a user's selection of a fire point on the enemy territory. Accordingly, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to execute firing of the one of the one or more supplemental fires on the fire point selected on the enemy territory, upon detection of the user's selections.

The one or more supplemental fires may, for example, include one or more weapons, one or more ammunitions, one or more flash fires, and the like. The one or more supplemental fires may be fired, for example, from one of the troop transportation units410and/or a battle-ship positioned in a sea near the shore region404. With reference toFIG. 4B, the one or more supplemental fires include a weapon416, an ammunition417and a flash fire418, presented within the selection-menu area408.

With reference toFIG. 4C, let us assume that the user selected a fire point420for firing the ammunition417. Accordingly, the ammunition417is fired at the fire point420, as shown inFIG. 4C.

With reference toFIG. 4D, let us assume that the user selected a fire point422for firing the flash fire418. The user may use the flash fire418to guide troops that have entered the enemy territory, for example, to enable the troops to reach a desired target object. In an example situation where the target object106ahas been at least partially destroyed, the user may choose to attack the target object106b.

Accordingly, the flash fire418is fired on the fire point422. Consequently, the flash fire418re-directs the troops to pass through one or more areas in a proximity of the fire point422. Accordingly, the troops that have entered the enemy territory take a target route424, as shown inFIG. 4D. The target route424passes through the areas in the proximity of the fire point422, and re-directs the troops towards a nearest target object. With reference toFIG. 4D, the target route424re-directs the troops towards the target object406b.

In this manner, the gaming system enables the user to define a war strategy as per his/her desire.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4Dare merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

Furthermore, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to levy a cost of usage of the one or more supplemental fires. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to allocate funds for usage of the one or more supplemental fires. The allocation of the funds may, for example, be based on at least one of: points earned by the user, resources collected by the user, and/or a current score of the user. Accordingly, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to levy the cost of usage from the allocated funds.

Additionally, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, may be configured to increase the allocated funds during playing of the game. In one example, the allocated funds may be increased when the user destroys one of the target objects406aand406b.

Optionally, the cost of usage may be substantially different for each usage of a particular supplemental fire. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cost of usage increases with each usage of the particular supplemental fire. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the cost of usage increases after the particular supplemental fire has been used a predefined number of times.

In order to illustrate how the cost of usage may be varied, let us consider an example table in which costs of usage of example supplemental fires have been provided. The costs have been provided in arbitrary units.

The column ‘First Usage’ provides a cost of a first usage of a particular supplemental fire. The column ‘Second Usage’ provides a cost of a second usage of the particular supplemental fire. The column ‘Third Usage’ provides a cost of a third usage of the particular supplemental fire. The column ‘NthUsage’ provides a cost of an Nthusage of the particular supplemental fire, where N is any positive integer.

The supplemental fires ‘F1’, ‘F2’, ‘F3’, ‘F4’ and ‘F5’ may, for example, include one or more weapons, one or more ammunitions, one or more flash fires, and the like.

It can be seen from the example table that the cost of usage increases with each usage of the supplemental fires ‘F1’, ‘F2’ and ‘F4’. This potentially encourages the user to use the allocated funds for different supplemental fires, and not use a particular supplemental fire repeatedly.

In other scenarios, it can be seen from the example table that the cost of usage decreases with each usage of the supplemental fire ‘F3’, while the cost of usage is randomly chosen for each usage of the supplemental fire ‘F5’. This may provide an element of surprise for the user, and make user's experience of playing the game even more enjoyable.

Let us consider an example scenario in which the software product312, when executed on the processor304, has allocated ‘6 units’ as funds for usage of the supplemental fires ‘F1’, ‘F2’ and ‘F5’. In order to optimize utilization of the allocated funds, the user may optimally choose to fire the supplemental fire ‘F1’ once, the supplemental fire ‘F2’ twice, and the supplemental fire ‘F5’ once. From the example table, it can be seen that:

the cost of a first usage of the supplemental fire ‘F1’=2 units

the cost of a first usage of the supplemental fire ‘F2’=1 unit

the cost of a second usage of the supplemental fire ‘F2’=2 units

the cost of first usage of the supplemental fire ‘F5’=1 unit

Therefore, the total cost of usage=2+1+2+1=6 units

In this manner, increase in the cost of usage potentially encourages the user to use the allocated funds for different supplemental fires, and not use a particular supplemental fire repeatedly. This facilitates optimal usage of the supplemental fires.

Costs of usages provided in the example table are merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5is an illustration of an example screenshot of a game view500of the gaming system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The game view500may, for example, be a first view of a map that displays an enemy territory being attacked by the user. The enemy territory includes a land region502and a shore region504, as shown inFIG. 5. Target objects506aand506bare positioned in the land region502. In an example, the target objects506aand506bmay be a head-quarter and a defence tower, respectively, belonging to the enemy territory.

Troop transportation units508are deployed as close to their respective deploy points510as possible on the shore region504. Consequently, troops512emerging from the troop transportation units508enter the enemy territory from one or more areas in proximities of their respective deploy points510.

Moreover, the user may select a type of troop to be deployed, for example, by selecting one or more troop-type options514provided on a selection-menu area516.

In an example situation where the target object506bthrows flames518on the troops512, the user may choose to supplement the troops512, for example, by using supplemental fires520provided on the selection-menu area516. The supplemental fires520may, for example, include one or more weapons, one or more ammunitions, one or more flash fires, and the like. The supplemental fires520may be fired, for example, from one of the troop transportation units508and/or a battle-ship522positioned in a sea524.

In the game view500, funds526have been allocated for usage of various resources, such as the supplemental fires520. When a particular supplemental fire is fired, the cost of usage of that particular supplemental fire is levied from the funds526.

FIG. 5is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6is an illustration of an example screenshot of a game view600of the gaming system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The game view600may, for example, be a first view of a map that displays an enemy territory being attacked by the user. The enemy territory includes a land region602and a shore region604, as shown inFIG. 6. A target object606is positioned in the land region602. In an example, the target object606may be a head-quarter belonging to the enemy territory.

Troop transportation units608a,608band608care deployed to a free space that is nearest to their respective deploy points610a,610band610c. Consequently, troops612emerging from the troop transportation units608a,608band608center the enemy territory from one or more areas in proximities of their respective deploy points610a,610band610c.

With reference toFIG. 6, the troops612are attacking the target object606from a particular location beside the target object606. In order to guide the troops612to reach that particular location, the user selects a flash fire614to be fired at a fire point616. The flash fire614may, for example, be fired from a battle-ship618positioned in a sea620.

FIG. 6is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7is an illustration of an example game view700of the gaming system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The example game view700may, for example, be a first view of a map that displays an enemy territory being attacked by the user. The enemy territory includes a land region702and a shore region704, as shown inFIG. 7. A plurality of target objects, depicted as a target object706aand a target object706binFIG. 7, are positioned in the land region702.

Let us consider an example scenario in which the user chose to deploy a troop transportation unit708aat a deploy point710afirst. As shown inFIG. 7, the troop transportation unit708ais deployed to a free space that is nearest to its respective deploy point710a. Consequently, troops emerging from the troop transportation unit708aenter the enemy territory from one or more areas in a proximity of the deploy point710a, for example, to attack the target object706a.

In the example scenario, the user next chooses to deploy a troop transportation unit708bat a deploy point710bthat is positioned above the deploy point710aon the shore region704. With reference toFIG. 7, no free space is available on the shore region704above the troop transportation unit708a. Consequently, the troop transportation unit708bis being deployed at a free space below the troop transportation unit708athat is nearest to its respective deploy point710b, as depicted by an arrow712a.

Troops emerging from the troop transportation unit708benter the enemy territory from one or more areas in a proximity of the deploy point710b, irrespective of a location at which the troop transportation unit708bis deployed. In this manner, the gaming system enables the user to control deployment of the troops, thereby enabling the user to define a war strategy as per his/her desire.

Furthermore, in the example scenario, the user chooses to deploy a troop transportation unit708cat a deploy point710c. With reference toFIG. 7, sufficient free space is available on the shore region704. Consequently, the troop transportation unit708cis being deployed to a free space that is nearest to its respective deploy point710c, as depicted by an arrow712b.

FIG. 7is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8Care illustrations of an example game view800of the gaming system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described earlier, the gaming system may include a war strategy game in which the user's purpose is to expand his/her territory, for example, by attacking one or more enemy territories. An enemy territory may, for example, be a territory owned by another user or a simulated opponent.

For illustration purposes only, let us assume that the gaming system has been implemented on the electronic device300. The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to present the example game view800on the graphical user interface generated and rendered on the display screen of the electronic device300. The example game view800includes a second view of the map depicted inFIG. 8A, a third view of the map depicted inFIG. 8B, and a fourth view of the map depicted inFIG. 8C.

With reference toFIG. 8A, the second view of the map displays one or more user-owned territories, depicted as a user-owned territory802; one or more enemy territories, depicted as enemy territories804a,804b,804c,804dand804e(hereinafter collectively referred to as enemy territories804); and one or more friend territories, depicted as friend territories806a,806band806c(hereinafter collectively referred to as friend territories806). A friend territory may, for example, be a territory that may have been freed from an enemy. Additionally, the second view of the map displays one or more treasures, depicted as a treasure808.

With reference toFIG. 8A, the user-owned territory802is located in a middle portion of the second view of the map, for example, by default. The software product312, when executed on the processor304, may be configured to allow the user to slide the second view of the map in all the directions, zoom-in to and zoom-out from the second view of the map, and so on.

The second view of the map includes one or more visible areas, depicted as a visible area810, and one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas, depicted as at-least-partially-hidden areas812. The user-owned territory802, the enemy territories804, the friend territories806and the treasure808are located within the visible area810, and therefore, are visible to the user.

The software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to present a user-selectable map-resource object814on the graphical user interface, and detect a user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object814. Consequently, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to present a user-selectable upgrade option816on the graphical user interface, detect a user's selection of the user-selectable upgrade option816, and upgrade the user-selectable map-resource object814, based at least partially upon the user's selection of the user-selectable upgrade option816.

In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the user-selectable map-resource object814includes a radar. Consequently, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is configured to present a third view of the map on the graphical user interface, as shown inFIG. 8B. Based at least partially upon the user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object814, at least one of the at-least-partially-hidden areas812of the second view of the map is made visible on the third view of the map. Beneficially, the at least one of the at-least-partially-hidden areas812is made visible when the user-selectable map-resource object814is upgraded. In this manner, the user may upgrade the user-selectable map-resource object814to explore unexplored areas.

With respect toFIGS. 8A and 8B, an at-least-partially-hidden area818on the second view of the map is made visible, and is shown as a visible area822on the third view of the map. As a result, a treasure824located within the visible area822is now visible to the user.

Moreover, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to levy a cost of usage of the user-selectable map-resource object814. The cost of usage of the user-selectable map-resource object814may be different for different at-least-partially-hidden areas. With reference toFIG. 8A, the cost of usage of the user-selectable map-resource object814for the at-least-partially-hidden area818is displayed as a cost820beside the user-selectable upgrade option816. The cost of usage may be provided in any arbitrary units, and may be levied with respect to various resources, such as gold, gems, wood and stones, collected by the user.

With respect toFIG. 8B, the user may next choose to make an at-least-partially-hidden area826visible, for example, by upgrading the user-selectable map-resource object814again. With reference toFIG. 8C, the at-least-partially-hidden area826on the third view of the map is shown as a visible area828on the fourth view of the map. Consequently, the visible area828is now visible to the user.

Moreover, in an example situation where some or all of the enemy territories804are owned by other users, the other users may be selected randomly, for example, when the second view of the map is opened. Alternatively, the other users may be selected by the user him/herself. Yet alternatively, the user may invite other players to join the game, for example, using the network interface308of the electronic device300.

Beneficially, selection of the other users may be dependent on a game level at which the user is playing the game. Accordingly, users playing at substantially similar game levels may be selected to play together with the user.

Furthermore, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to enable a user's selection of one of the enemy territories804to be attacked. The one of the enemy territories804selected by the user may then be displayed in a manner that is similar to the first view of the map as illustrated inFIGS. 5 and 6.

In a situation where the user attacks the one of the enemy territories804and defeats the one of the enemy territories804, the user receives resources that were previously in possession of the one of the enemy territories804. The resources may, for example, include gold, gems, wood, stones, food, and so on. Accordingly, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to transfer to the user the resources that were previously in possession of the one of the enemy territories804, when the user defeats the one of the enemy territories804.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the user receives the resources that were previously in possession of the one of the enemy territories804at a time when the resources of the one of the enemy territories804were first revealed to the user. The resources of the one of the enemy territories804may, for example, be revealed to the user when the user opens the first view of the map corresponding to the one of the enemy territories804.

For illustration purposes only, let us consider an example scenario as described below:

1) At a time ‘t1’, a particular enemy territory has 150 units of a particular resource, such as gold, in possession. Let us assume that the particular enemy territory is owned by an opponent user.

2) The user chooses to open the first view of the map corresponding to the particular enemy territory, for example, to attack or visit the particular enemy territory at the time ‘t1’ or a time that is substantially close to the time ‘t1’, and finds that the particular enemy territory has 150 units of the particular resource in possession.
3) The user subsequently chooses to attack the particular enemy territory at the time ‘t1’ or the time that is substantially close to the time ‘t1’. Let us assume that the user does not win a battle against the particular enemy territory. Accordingly, the particular resource may not be transferred to the user. Alternatively, the particular resource may be transferred only partially to the user.
4) Over a period of time, for example, at a time ‘t2’, the particular enemy territory earns and/or gathers more units of the particular resource, say 3000 units of the particular resource.
5) The user chooses to attack the particular enemy territory again, for example, at the time ‘t2’ or a time that is substantially close to the time ‘t2’. The user sees that the particular enemy territory has 150 units of the particular resource in possession, i.e., an amount of the particular resource that was revealed to the user at the time ‘t1’ or the time that is substantially close to the time ‘t1’. Let us assume that the user wins the battle and defeats the opponent user. Accordingly, 150 units of the particular resource are transferred to the user.
6) As the opponent user lost the battle, the opponent user loses 3000 units of the particular resource, i.e., 100% of the particular resource he/she had in possession at the time ‘t2’.

In this manner, the gaming system ensures that the user receives the amount of the particular resource that was first revealed to the user, as the user saw the amount as an opportunity when the user attacked again. The gaming system also ensures that the opponent user loses 100% of the particular resource he/she had in possession, as it would not be fair if the opponent user loses only 150 units from 3000 units of the particular resource even after losing the battle. This potentially leads to optimal distribution of resources, and facilitates a balance in an economic system between the user and the opponent user.

Furthermore, the user can receive additional resources from one or more of the friend territories806that were freed from an enemy, for example, as a reward for freeing the one or more of the friend territories806. Accordingly, the software product312, when executed on the processor304, is optionally configured to transfer to the user the additional resources from the one or more of the friend territories806. Beneficially, the additional resources may be transferred on a periodic basis. For example, a particular friend territory may transfer 10 units of a resource per hour to the user.

FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8Care merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9is an illustration of an example game view900of the gaming system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The example game view900displays a home base of the user. The home base of the user includes a land region902and a shore region904.

One or more user-selectable graphical objects, depicted as user-selectable graphical objects906, are positioned in the land region902. In an example, the user-selectable graphical objects906may include a head-quarter, one or more defence towers and other supporting structures.

The user can create, build, move, update or upgrade the user-selectable graphical objects906. In one example, the user can use a new option908to create new user-selectable graphical objects.

With reference toFIG. 9, one or more user-selectable options910are presented to the user, for example, when the user selects one of the user-selectable graphical objects906. The user-selectable options910may, for example, include an upgrade option that, when selected, upgrades the one of the user-selectable graphical objects906from its current level to a higher level. Additionally, the user-selectable options910may include an information option that, when selected, provides the user with information related to the one of the user-selectable graphical objects906.

Optionally, one or more landscape objects, such as trees and cliffs, are displayed in the example game view900, for example, corresponding to a landscape view selected by the user.

With reference toFIG. 9, an enemy can enter from the shore region904to attack the home base of the user. The shore region904is beside a sea912that surrounds the home base of the user.

A dock structure914is built in the sea912. The dock structure914provides a free space for docking troop transportation units916, a battle-ship918, and a cargo-ship920. The cargo-ship920may, for example, deliver supplies to and from the home base of the user.

Additionally, the user can use the new option908to create new troop-transportation units and battle-ships. It is to be noted here that the free space of the dock structure914can be limited or unlimited, for example, depending on a game configuration being used.

Moreover, the user can access other game views from the example game view900. In one example, the user can access a map to select an enemy territory to be attacked. The map may be accessed, for example, using a map-view option922.

Typically, there are certain resources in possession of the user. Available resources are beneficially displayed to the user. With reference toFIG. 9, the resources include gold units924, gems926and wood928.

The user can use some of these resources for various purposes. In one example, the user can use his/her resources to create or build certain user-selectable graphical objects, such as defence towers, troop transportation units, battle-ships and so on. In another example, the user can use his/her resources to upgrade a user-selectable graphical object or a game level itself.

Information about an amount of these resources in possession of the user is optionally updated to a remote server, such as the server204. Beneficially, the information may be updated substantially continuously. Alternatively, the information may be updated periodically.

Moreover, the gaming system may allow the user to receive additional resources by making actual financial payments to the gaming system. Such financial payments may, for example, be made using a payment arrangement that is coupled in communication with the remote server.

Moreover, the example game view900also displays users' name930and a current score932of the user.

Additionally, the example game view900also displays a forum option934, and a trouble-shooting option936. When selected by the user, the forum option934initiates a discussion forum with other users, while the trouble-shooting option936provides information that helps the user to trouble-shoot problems that he/she may have encountered.

FIG. 9is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10is an illustration of steps of a method of facilitating user interactions with a graphical user interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method is depicted as a collection of steps in a logical flow diagram, which represents a sequence of steps that can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof.

As described earlier, the graphical user interface is generated and rendered on a display screen of an electronic device, by executing a software product on a computing hardware of the electronic device. The electronic device may, for example, be implemented in a manner that is similar to the implementation of the electronic device300and/or the electronic devices202.

At a step1002, a first view of a map is presented on the graphical user interface. The first view of the map displays an enemy territory.

At a step1004, one or more user-selectable graphical objects are presented on the graphical user interface. The one or more user-selectable graphical objects include one or more troop transportation units.

The steps1002and1004may be performed simultaneously.

At a step1006, a user's selection of one of the one or more troop transportation units is detected. In accordance with the step1006, the one of the one or more troop transportation units is selected to be deployed to attack the enemy territory.

At a step1008, a user's selection of a deploy point on the enemy territory is detected.

At a step1010, deployment of the one of the one or more troop transportation units on the enemy territory is executed. Consequently, troops emerging from the one of the one or more troop transportation units enter the enemy territory from one or more areas in a proximity of the deploy point.

Optionally, the method may include additional steps at which a user's selection of a supplemental fire to be fired and a fire point on the enemy territory are detected; and consequently, firing of the supplemental fire is executed on the fire point selected on the enemy territory. In an example situation where the supplemental fire is a flash fire, the flash fire re-directs the troops to pass through one or more areas in a proximity of the fire point.

In this manner, the method enables the user to control deployment of the troops, thereby enabling the user to define a war strategy as per his/her desire.

Moreover, the method may include an optional step at which a cost of usage of the supplemental fire is levied. The method may also include an optional step at which the cost of usage is increased with each usage of the supplemental fire and/or after the supplemental fires has been used a predefined number of times.

Moreover, the method may include additional steps at which changes in status of the one or more user-selectable graphical objects are substantially continuously recorded and updated in a database coupled to the software product; and the status of the one or more user-selectable graphical objects are resumed to their last updated status in the database, in case of interruptions in the operations of the graphical user interface.

Furthermore, the method may include additional steps at which a plurality of electronic devices are coupled in communication with a server via a communication network; and graphical user interfaces are generated temporally concurrently on display screens of the plurality of electronic devices. The graphical user interfaces are coordinated through the server, and updated on the plurality of electronic devices concurrently with time, to facilitate interactions of a plurality of users with the graphical user interfaces. Beneficially, the method is implemented to facilitate an online multiplayer gaming system.

The steps1002to1010are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

Furthermore, the method may include additional steps at which a second view of the map is presented on the graphical user interface, wherein the second view of the map displays one or more user-owned territories and one or more enemy territories. This enables a user to select one of the one or more enemy territories to be attacked.

As illustrated inFIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C, the second view of the map includes one or more visible areas and one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas. The method may include additional steps at which a user-selectable map-resource object is presented on the graphical user interface; a user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object is detected; and consequently, a third view of the map is presented on the graphical user interface. At least one of the one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas of the second view of the map is made visible on the third view of the map, based at least partially upon the user's selection of the user-selectable map-resource object. For example, the at least one of the one or more at-least-partially-hidden areas is made visible when the user-selectable map-resource object is upgraded.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a software product stored on non-transitory (non-transient) machine-readable data storage media, wherein the software product is executable upon the computing hardware of an electronic device, such as the electronic device300or one of the electronic devices202, for implementing the method as described in conjunction withFIG. 10. The software product is optionally, for example, downloadable from a software application store, for example from an “App store”, to the electronic device.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are susceptible to being used for various purposes, including, though not limited to, enabling users to control deployment of troops, thereby enabling the users to define a war strategy as per their desire; facilitating optimal usage of supplemental fires; and facilitating a balance in an economic system between opponent users.