Abstract:
This game is a method performed by a processor for playing this item exchange game at a party or other gathering, for the purpose of enhancing the enjoyment and interaction of the participants while exchanging gifts or trading items. The game is played with virtual Turn Cards, Trader Cards, and Block Cards. The computer establishes the order of play to be displayed on the turn cards, and the trader cards instruct a player to select an unclaimed item, which concludes the turn. The trader card may instruct the player to take a turn card or claimed item from a Targeted Player. The Targeted Player may give up the turn card or claimed item, or may request a block card with instructions to prevent the player from taking the Targeted Player&#39;s turn card or claimed item. A turn is completed when a player selects an unclaimed item. The game ends when no unclaimed items remain.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/208,339, filed Aug. 12, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not applicable. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to games as they pertain to gift exchanges among a plurality of players controlled and managed by a computer processor at a central location. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     The prior art for gift or item exchange games commonly known as White Elephant, Dirty Santa, Yankee Trader, or Chinese Gift Exchange allow for the taking of items from other players. The prior art is limited in the manner in which a player may protect his or her item or turn card. However, this game contains a method for increased participant interaction through various trading opportunities with Targeted Players, thus providing more interaction and participation. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is the object of this present invention to enhance the enjoyment and interaction of the participants while exchanging gifts or trading items. Persons knowledgeable in the art of playing this game will notice a similarity to a gift exchange game commonly known as White Elephant, Dirty Santa, Yankee Trader, or Chinese Gift Exchange; however, this parlor game contains a method for increased participant interaction and allows for remote play, customization, and increased efficiency through use of a personal computer or portable computing device such as a smartphone or tablet with connection to the Internet. Furthermore, the computer-based operation allows players to trade virtual items or credits to online retailers. 
     The preferred method of this invention calls for a host, ringmaster, and players. The number of players ranges from 6 to 24 and may include the host and ringmaster as players. Further, the host and ringmaster may be the same individual. Players may be individuals or groups depending on the rules the host provides. The host is the organizer of the game and determines the appropriate theme and the type of items or gifts the players should bring or purchase for the game. An item brought by a player remains undisclosed to the other players until the item is claimed through the game play. The ringmaster facilitates play and order of the game, and serves as the judge for actions that require a determination as to success or failure. Players are the person or team playing the game, with each player or team having access to a personal computer or portable computing device such as a smartphone or tablet device with an internet connection. 
     Game play begins with all players accessing the central location and joining the Internet-based game. After all players have joined and identified the items, the processor randomizes the players and displays the first player&#39;s trader card to the ringmaster. The ringmaster can accept the trader card, or reject and select a new trader card. After the ringmaster makes his decision and sends the input to the processor, the processor displays new trader card instructions to the ringmaster. Upon accepting the trader card, the instructions are displayed to the player, now referred to as the Trader. The Trader must comply with the instructions on the trader card. The trader card instructions are in the form of two categories. The first category requires the player to claim an item, which reveals the identity of the item to all players. After this action is taken, the turn is over and the processor notifies the next player of their turn. 
     The second category in the trader card instructions requires the Trader to take a turn card or item from another player based on a variety of different situations. This other player is referred to as the Targeted Player. In this situation, the Targeted Player has two options: (1) forfeit the item or turn card to the Trader; or (2) institute a block challenge. If the Targeted Player forfeits the turn card or item, the Targeted Player becomes the Trader. In the instance of a block challenge, the Targeted Player requests a block card from the processor. The instructions on the block card provide either a challenge to the Targeted Player or a competition with the Trader. If the Trader wins the block or challenge, then the Trader takes the Targeted Player&#39;s item or turn card. If the Targeted Player wins the block or challenge, the Targeted Player retains the item or turn card. The loser of the challenge or block continues the turn as the Trader. Depending on the choices made by the players and the outcome of the block challenges, the ringmaster will enter the necessary inputs to the processor and the processor will automatically determine which steps are necessary. Depending on the outcomes, the displays to all the players are updated in real time. 
     Once a Trader is determined, through forfeiture of the item or turn card, or through losing the challenge or block, the Trader then has three options. The Trader may take a turn card or item from another player, may request a trader card, or take an unclaimed item. The video displays these options, of which the Trader will select one, and the ringmaster will enter that option into the processor. The turn continues as described above. 
     The game ends once all players have claimed an item. In an alternative ending, once all the items are claimed, the player who opened the first item may return the item that the player is holding. If the player declines to do that, the game ends. If the player elects to return the item, the player may then take an item from another player; however, that Targeted Player may block the Trader. Play shall continue until the remaining unclaimed item is claimed. The ringmaster will make sure that all items have been claimed and will verify with the processor that each player is matched to the item they have claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram of a system for which the invention may be executed and implemented. 
         FIG. 2  discloses a turn card showing the front and back of the card. 
         FIG. 3  discloses a trader card showing the front and back of the card. 
         FIG. 4  discloses a block card showing the front and back of the card. 
         FIG. 5  discloses the preferred method of game setup. 
         FIG. 6  discloses the preferred method of game play. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In describing the preferred embodiment, it is necessary to define the individuals for operation of the game. The host is the individual who invites everyone to play according to the method described herein. The host may customize the game or select from pre-defined themes to fit the party and players. The ringmaster manages the game, guides the players, and ensures the orderly progression of each turn. As final arbiter of disputes, the ringmaster should be fair-minded and familiar with the rules. The players are the individuals playing the game, which may include the host and/or the ringmaster. The ringmaster and the host may be the same person. The preferred method is recommended for six to twenty-four players, ages 10 to 110. Larger groups enable more interaction among the players and increase the fun. Younger players may need assistance. The term “player” may also encompass a couple or a group of individuals playing as a team. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the method is played by exchanging or trading items, but the game can be played using anything tradable. For example, the host may select a particular source of items, or set a theme such as art, books, collectibles, food, games, garage sale items, household items, movies, party favors, prank or gag items, recipes, seasonal gifts, sports items, toys, traditional “white elephant” gifts, and the like. The host may set a price range or price limit for the items, or he may alert his guests that there is no price limit. In other situations, items may be in the form of credits to online retailers. In the preferred embodiment, the items or credits are wrapped or otherwise disguised from identification between the other players. If in the form of credits, the credits are not disclosed to the other players. Once an item is claimed, as will be disclosed herein, the item becomes known to all players. 
       FIG. 1  discloses a system  100  on which the gift exchange and trading game may be executed. The system includes a central location  105 , a ringmaster interactive display terminal  130 , and a plurality of player interactive display terminals  115 . The central location  105  contains memory and a processor  110  that executes a software program that displays the video output to the terminals  115 ,  130 , executes a method of play, and stores data pertaining to themes, player identifications, item identifications, and game flow. The central location  105  is operationally connected  200  to the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  and player interactive display terminals  115 . The connection  200  may occur through the Internet, other global network, or through a private network such as an intranet or a Local Area Network (LAN). The connection  200  may be wired or wireless, depending on the connection means. Furthermore, the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  and player interactive display terminals  115  may be connected through a combination of methods, but not all ringmaster interactive display terminals  130  and player interactive display terminals  115  are required to be connected in the same manner. 
     Each player interactive display terminal  115  and ringmaster interactive display terminals  130  have an input interface  120 ,  135  and a video display  125 ,  140 . In some instances, input interfaces  120 ,  135  and video displays  125 ,  140  may be the same on some devices such as touch screen tablets, touch screen laptop computers, and portable computing devices. In other instances, the input interface and video display will be separate on some devices such as traditional personal computers and some cellular communication devices. In some embodiments, the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  and player interactive display terminals  115  will be operationally connected  200  to retailers  150 . 
     In the preferred embodiment, the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  and player interactive display terminals  115  are simply access points that connect via connection means  200  to the central location  105 , and any device capable of connecting to the Internet and having an input interface and display is sufficient to operate the present method. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2-4 , the present invention utilizes four cards: a turn card  15 , trader card  20 , block card  30 , and a host card. These cards will be virtually represented on the video display  125 ,  140 . In the preferred embodiment, the turn, trader, block, and host cards are virtually displayed on the video displays  125 ,  140  in a size and shape similar to poker or bridge playing cards. The format would also be similar to playing cards with art work on the back of each deck of cards and the turn card instructions  4 , trader card instructions  8 , or block card markings  12  on the corresponding faces of the cards. The ringmaster and each player may selectively choose which side of the card they want displayed on the video display  125 ,  140 . For example, the player may touch the card on the screen, or select it through a click, to “flip” over the card. 
       FIG. 2  shows the preferred embodiment of the turn card  15  as seen on the video displays  125 ,  140 . The turn card  15  comprises a turn card front  1  and a turn card back  3 . On the turn card front  1  is turn card text  2 , which identifies the card as a turn card  15 . The turn card text  2  may come in a variety of different fonts and languages and may contain numerous graphical representations. On the turn card back  3  are turn card instructions  4  that are sequential numbers or any other system of order. The turn card  15  determines which player goes first and the sequence of play based on turn cards  15  throughout the game. The turn card instructions  4  are usually sequential numbers but may be anything that allows for a determination of order amongst all the players. The turn cards  15  are stored at the central location  105 . 
       FIG. 3  shows the preferred embodiment of the trader card  20 . The trader card  5  is displayed to the ringmaster first during each turn. The Trader is defined as the player trying to take a turn card  1  or an item from another player or selecting an unclaimed item. A Targeted Player is the player from whom the Trader is seeking to obtain a turn card  15  or item. The trader card  20  comprises a trader card front  5  and a trader card back  7 . On the trader card front  5  is trader card text  6  which identifies the card as a trader card  20 . The trader card text  6  may come in a variety of different fonts and languages and may contain numerous graphical representations. On the trader card back  7  are trader card instructions  8 . 
     The trader card instructions  8  may come in a variety of different formats falling into three general categories: 1) taking an unclaimed item; 2) taking a claimed item from another player; or 3) taking a turn card  15  from another player. The trader card instructions  8  are stored at the central location  105  and may be supplemented or amended by future updates. The trader card instructions  8  may be related to a particular theme or randomly created. The trader cards  20  are stored at the central location  105  and may be grouped by themes. 
     Examples of trader card instructions  8  include, but are not limited to: open the largest remaining item; open the smallest remaining item; open the most unusual looking item; open the remaining package most likely wrapped by a guy; open or take the gift that was brought by the person to your right; open or take the gift that was brought by the person to your left; take an item or turn card from a person who is likely to be seen watching professional wrestling; take an item or turn card from the person most likely to appear on a beer commercial; take any item that has already been taken from another player; take an item or turn card from the person most likely to appear on “America&#39;s Most Wanted”; take an item or turn card from the person who lives farthest from your home; take an item or turn card from someone who looks or acts like your father; take an item or turn card from the person you would most like to date; take the last item that was taken from another player; take an item or turn card from someone of the opposite sex; take an item or turn card from the person who reminds you most of your favorite pet; take an item or turn card from the person who reminds you most of your favorite zoo animal; take an item or turn card from a person sporting a beard, mustache, or tattoo; take an item or turn card from someone on the opposite side of the room; take an item or turn card from the person you would most like to kiss; take an item or turn card from the person most likely to host a radio talk show; take an item or turn card from someone who looks most like your favorite celebrity; take an item or turn card from the person most likely to appear on a reality show; take an item or turn card from someone who would ride an elephant; take an item or turn card from someone who is wearing yellow or gold; take an item or turn card from the person most likely to date a rock star; take an item or turn card from someone wearing seasonal earrings; take an item or turn card from someone wearing blue; take an item or turn card from someone wearing red; take an item or turn card from the person who looks or acts most like your mother; take an item or turn card from the person most likely to become a priest, rabbi, or minister; trade for the item most likely to be found on an infomercial; take an item or turn card from the tallest person; take an item or turn card from the person you would most like to be with on a deserted island; take an item or turn card from the person you would least like to see in a swim suit; take an item or turn card from the person you would most like to share a canoe; take an item or turn card from the person you would most like to swap clothes; take an item or turn card from someone whose birthday is in the same month as yours; take an item or turn card from someone who plays a musical instrument; take an item or turn card from someone who wears glasses or contacts; take an item or turn card from someone who speaks more than one language; take an item or turn card from the youngest player; take an item or turn card from the person you would most like to see in a swimsuit; take an item or turn card from the person you&#39;ve know the longest; take an item or turn card from the person most likely to be a model; take an item or turn card from the person who has the best singing voice; take an item or turn card from your best friend; take an item or turn card from the person you would most want to look like; take the item from the last player who opened one; take an item or turn card from the player  6  places to your right; take an item or turn card from the player  3  places to your left; take an item or turn card from the player  4  places to your right; take an item or turn card from the player  5  places to your left; take a turn card from the person holding the highest remaining number; and close your eyes, spin three times, and point (with your eyes still closed) to find your trading partner. 
       FIG. 4  shows the preferred embodiment of the block card  30 . Block cards  30  provide players an opportunity to prevent a Trader from taking their turn card  15  or item. The block card  30  comprises a block card front  9  and a block card back  11 . On the block card front  9  is block card text  10 , which identifies the card as a block card  30 . The block card text  10  may come in a variety of different fonts and languages and may contain numerous graphical representations. Printed on the block card back  11  are block card markings  12 . The block card markings  12  are programmed into the software and may be supplemented or amended by future updates. The block card markings  12  may be related to a particular theme chosen by the host, related to the theme of trader cards, or may be randomly created. The block cards  30  are stored at the central location  105  and may be grouped by themes. 
     Examples of block card markings  12  include, but are not limited to: You can block this trade if you juggle three objects for ten seconds; You can block this trade if you sing the first verse of “America the Beautiful”; You can block this trade if you whistle “Dixie”; You can block this trade if you impersonate a famous movie character; You can block this trade if you beat your chest and yell like Tarzan; You can block this trade if you impersonate someone in the room; You can block this trade if you balance on one foot longer than the Trader; You can block this trade if you hop on one foot ten times without falling over; You can block this trade if you stand on your head; You can block this trade if you rub your tummy, pat your head, and chatter like Tarzan&#39;s chimpanzee, “Cheetah”; You can block this trade if you dance the “Macarena;” You can block this trade if you dance the “Chicken” and crow like a rooster; You can block this trade if you impersonate a zoo animal of the Trader&#39;s choice; You can block this trade if you dance the “Cotton Eyed Joe” with the Trader; You can block this trade if you kiss the trader and say, “No!” 1920&#39;s mobster style; You can block this trade if you and the Trader, lost and under pigmy attack, converse in questions only with the 1st non question statement losing; You can block this trade if you touch your toes without bending your knees; You can block this trade if you sing a song about something the Trader is wearing and a zoo animal; You can block this trade if you walk around the room with a book balanced on your head; You can block this trade if you, alternating with the Trader, can name more states and their capitols; You can block this trade if you count to ten in two languages other than your native tongue; You can block this trade if you dance the “Hula” while balancing a book on your head; You can block this trade if you sing a love song to the Trader; You can block this trade if you sing a silly song about a monkey, a baby elephant, and your mom; You can block this trade if you alternating with the Trader, can name more US presidents; You can block this trade if you beat the Trader at “Rock, Paper, Scissors”; You can block this trade if you tell a funny story about someone in the room; You can block this trade if you yodel; You can block this trade if you bark “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”; You can block this trade if you whistle the “Andy Griffith Show” Theme Song; You can block this trade if you send the Trader to trade with the 4th player to your left; You can block this trade if you send the Trader to trade with the 5th player to your right; You can block this trade if you send the Trader to trade with the 6th player to your left; You can block this trade if you send the Trader to trade with the 7th player to your right; You can block this trade if you send the Trader to trade with any player of your choice; You can block this trade if you recite the alphabet backwards; You can block this trade if you tell an elephant joke; You can block this trade if you disclose your age and weight; You can block this trade if you balance a spoon on your nose; You can block this trade if you, alternating with the Trader, can name more “Beatles” song titles; You can block this trade if you send the Trader to the 3rd person on your left; You can block this trade if you show the Trader a coin, from your own pocket or purse, minted prior to the Trader&#39;s birth year; You can block this trade if you chug a drink of your choice with an 8 oz minimum; You can block this trade if you keep a “Poker Face” (no smiling) longer than the Trader; You can block this trade if you name the gifts from “The 12 Days of Christmas”; You can block this trade if you guess the Trader&#39;s shoe size; You can block this trade if you guess which gift the Trader brought; You can block this trade if you name five animals that begin with the last letter of the Trader&#39;s name; You can block this trade if you recite a nursery rhyme; You can block this trade if you name five “James Bond” movie titles; You can block this trade if you and the Trader converse in questions only about your wedding night with the first non-question statement losing; You can block this trade if you beat the Trader thumb wrestling; You can block this trade if you spell “Wild Trader Party” backwards; You can block this trade if you hold your breath for 30 seconds; You can block this trade if you touch your nose with your tongue; and You can block this trade if you raise each eye brow one at a time: R R L L R L R. 
     The host cards are trader and block cards  20 ,  30  on which the host may input his or her own trader card instructions  8  and/or block card markings  12  to personalize the game for his or her particular gaming group based on the age group, type of party, and/or theme. The ringmaster may create or modify the trader and block cards through the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  that will update the central location  105  to allow for inclusion of the modified cards. The host cards can be customized when the game is not in progress and may also be saved for future use. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the turn, trader, host and block cards may be designed in a variety of shapes, sizes and displays. For example, the digital display of the trader card  20  may appear with the title “Trader Card” above the trader card instructions  8  and may specifically identify the player or team. Further, the turn, trader, host, and block cards may have a single view instead of being double-sided. 
     The preferred method of game setup of this invention is described in reference to  FIG. 5 . Prior to beginning the game, a host invites a predetermined number of players and determines a theme. The host provides information regarding the items or gifts that are to be brought, if any. A ringmaster is selected and is charged with the responsibility of setting up the game. To do so, the ringmaster utilizes the input interface  135  of the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  to access the central location  105  and start a new game. The ringmaster creates the game, inputs the number of players, name of players, and contact information of players into the central location  105  wherein the central location  105  executes a process  300  through processor  110  and sends an invitation to the players through the player interactive display terminal  115  to join through email, text message, or other communication. This information includes instructions regarding accessing the central location and game, date, time, and potentially the type of item to bring. The player may then accept or reject the invitation through the input interface  120  of the player interactive display terminal  115  which is then sent to the central location  105 . The central location  105  executes software through processor  110  interpreting the acceptance from the player by storing that information at the central location  105  and sending an output to all player interactive display terminals  115  and ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  that the specific player has joined. The processor  110  updates the interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  in real-time as the players accept or reject the invitations. 
     The ringmaster may set the game up in advance of the game to allow for sufficient opportunity for players to be joined. Alternatively, the ringmaster may create a unique identifier for the game at the central location  105  and supply that unique identifier to each prospective player. A prospective player, utilizing the player interactive display terminal  115 , will then access the central location  105  through connection means  200  and input the unique identifier. Upon verification by the processor  110 , the player will then enter the game. 
     Each player is required to bring an item as per the instructions of the ringmaster. If the gifts are physically brought, the gifts are wrapped so as to prevent disclosure. Players or the ringmaster, through the player interactive display terminals  115  and ringmaster interactive display terminal  130 , upload information pertaining to the item brought, such information may be a photo of the disguised item, photo of the non-disguised item, or information regarding the item. Once this information is uploaded, a process  301  is executed by the processor  110  at central location  105 . The player and/or ringmaster shall categorize the information as disguised information or non-disguised information  301  and input that into the central processor  105 . The central processor  105  executes the process  301  through processor  110  and assigns a unique identifier to each item inputted by the player and/or ringmaster and stores information as disguised or non-disguised. Disguised item information shall be displayed when the item is unclaimed as disclosed herein and non-disguised information shall be displayed when the item becomes claimed as disclosed herein. As players and the ringmaster upload information before the game start, the processor  110  stores that information at the central location  105  and updates the interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  in real-time to show an item has been brought. 
     Players may also bring gifts by purchasing from an online retailer  150 . In this example, a player utilizing the player interactive display terminal  115 , will access an online retailer  150  through connection means  200  and purchase an item or purchase a type of an item. Confirmation of the purchase is then sent from the player interactive display terminal  115  to the central location  105  where the information is stored. A player may buy a specific item from the online retailer or buy a gift card or credits for use. This information is processed by the processor  110  and the player is given credit for a gift just as described above. As players claim the items, all players can view the non-disguised information for each claimed item through their interactive display terminals  115 ,  130 . 
     Prior to beginning play, the ringmaster chooses the theme of the game by accessing the central location  105  and selecting a predetermined set of trader cards  20  and block cards  30 . Once selected, the central location  105  assigns the themed trader cards  20  and block cards  30  to the specific game created by the ringmaster. The ringmaster may then create additional trader cards  20  and block cards  30  or remove certain trader card instructions or block card instructions as the ringmaster sees fit. The processor  110  executes these changes and stores the modification at the central location  105  for duration of the game. As will be described herein, as the processor  110  executes actions of the game, the processor  110  randomly selects trader cards  20  and block cards  30  from the ringmaster-created set. 
     The ringmaster stops player input to the processor  110  when it is time to begin the game. Once the ringmaster inputs the start of the game to the central location  105 , a process  302  is executed by the processor  110  at central location  105 . The processor  110  randomizes the turn cards  15 , trader cards  20 , and block cards  30 . The processor  110  randomizes the trader cards  20  and the block cards  30  from the preselected cards, which is stored at the central location  105 . The trader cards  20  are randomized so that each unique trader card  20  may only be used once until all trader cards  20  have been used. The block cards  30  are randomized so that each unique block card  30  may only be used once until all block cards  30  have been used. Use does not include trader cards rejected by the ringmaster. 
     The processor  110  assigns a unique turn card  15  to each player, which is stored in the central location  105  for the duration of the game. The processor  110  sends the unique turn card  15  via connection means  200  to each unique player interactive display terminal  115 . Players are instructed to keep the turn card  15  hidden so that each player will not know when another player&#39;s turn is up. If the ringmaster is participating as a player, then the order of players is kept secret. If the ringmaster is not a player, then the processor  110  may also output the order of players to the video display  140  of the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130 . The processor  110  then sends notification to all players and ringmaster through the video displays  125 ,  140 , via connection means  200 , as to the player with the turn card  15  that designates the first to play. This player becomes the Trader. 
     The processor  110  then selects the first trader card  20  and sends the trader card  20  to the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130 . The ringmaster accepts or rejects the trader card  20  on the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  through input interface  135 , which communicates via connection means  200  to the central location  105 . If the ringmaster rejects the trader card  20 , then a process  304  is executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105  and a new trader card  20  is sent to the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130 . If the ringmaster accepts the trader card  20 , then a process  303  is executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105  and the trader card  20  is sent to all player interactive display terminals  115 . The player interactive display terminal  115  corresponding to the Trader, as determined above, may utilize the input interface  120  to decide on which course of action to take based on the trader card instructions  8 . The trader card instructions  8  are comprised of two types of actions: 1) take a turn card  15  or claimed item from a Targeted Player; or 2) claim an unclaimed item. 
     A Trader claims an unclaimed item by identifying the desired unclaimed item as seen on the video display  125  of the Trader&#39;s player interactive display terminal  115  through the input interface  120 . Once the central location  105  receives the Trader&#39;s input via connection means  200 , a process  306  is executed by the processor  110  at central location  105 . The processor  110  reveals non-disguised information related to the formerly unclaimed item to all players and the ringmaster through the video displays  125 ,  140 . The processor  110  further updates the players and ringmaster to show that the player, or Trader, has claimed this particular item. Upon selection of the unclaimed item, the turn automatically ends and the processor  110  identifies the next Trader based on the previously determined order of turn cards  15  through updating the video displays  125 ,  140 . 
     If the trader card instructions  8  require the Trader to take a turn card  15  or a claimed item from a Targeted Player, then the ringmaster identifies the Targeted Player through the input interface  135  via connection means  200  to the processor  110 . Once the Targeted Player is identified by the ringmaster, a process  305  is executed by the processor  110  at central location  105 . The processor  110  then displays the identity of the Targeted Player to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  via connection means  200 . 
     Once the identification of the Targeted Player is completed, a process  307  is executed by the processor  110  at central location  105 . The processor  110  sends an output to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130 , through connection means  200 , which presents two options: 1) the Targeted Player may forfeit his turn card or claimed item, if any, to the Trader; or 2) request a block card  30  from the processor  110 . 
     If the Targeted Player elects to forfeit the turn card  15  or claimed item, then the Trader takes the claimed item or turn card  15  and the Targeted Player continues the turn as the Trader. The decision to request a block card  30  is input to the processor  110  via connection means  200  by the player through the interactive display terminal  115  where a process  308  is then executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  transfers the claimed item or turn card  15  from the Targeted Player to the Trader. The resulting change is then sent to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  and displayed to the players and ringmaster through the video display  125 ,  140 . 
     The second option allows the Targeted Player to request a block card  30  from the processor  110 . The decision to request a block card  30  is input to the processor  110  via connection means  200  by the player through the interactive display terminal  115  where a process  309  is then executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  then selects a block card  30  based on the randomization previously described, and displays the block card  30  to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130 . 
     The block card markings  12  may be in the form of instructions previously disclosed. Successful execution of the block card markings  12  occurs when the Trader defeats the Targeted Player, the Trader successfully executes the block card markings  12 , or the Targeted Player unsuccessfully executes the block card markings  12 . Successful execution of the block card markings  12  results in the Trader taking the Targeted Player&#39;s turn card  15  or claimed item. The Targeted Player then continues the turn as the Trader. Once a Trader has successfully captured the same claimed item three times it may not be taken from the player thereafter. 
     The ringmaster determines if the block card markings  12  were executed successfully. The ringmaster inputs this information to the processor  110  via connection means  200  through the interactive display terminal  130  where a process  310  is then executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  transfers the claimed item or turn card  15  from the Targeted Player to the Trader. The resulting change is then sent to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  and displayed to the players and ringmaster through the video display  125 ,  140 . The processor  110  then assigns a successful capture to the Trader and claimed item and stores that information at the central location  105 . Once a Trader has successfully captured the same claimed item three times, it may not be taken from the player thereafter. The resulting change is then sent to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  and displayed to the players and ringmaster through the video display  125 ,  140 . 
     Unsuccessful execution of block card markings  12  occurs when the Targeted Player defeats the Trader, the Targeted Player successfully executes the block card markings  12 , or the Trader unsuccessfully executes the block card markings  12 . Unsuccessful execution of the block card markings  12  results in the Trader continuing the turn as the Trader and the Targeted Player retaining possession of the turn card  15  or claimed item. 
     The ringmaster determines if the block card markings  12  were executed unsuccessfully. The ringmaster inputs this information to the processor  110  via connection means  200  through the interactive display terminal  130  where a process  311  is then executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  the assigns a successful challenge to the Targeted Player and claimed item and stores that information at the central location  105 . Once a Targeted Player has successfully defended the same claimed item three times it may not be taken from the Targeted Player thereafter. The resulting change is then sent to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  and displayed to the players and ringmaster through the video display  125 ,  140 . 
     Once a player has captured or successfully defended the same claimed item three times, it may not be taken from the player (hereinafter “three times rule protection”). In this situation, if a trader card  20  or block card  30  directs a player to a protected player who has captured or successfully defended the same claimed item three times, the protected player may direct the Trader to any unprotected player possessing an item. The Trader must attempt to take the claimed item held by the unprotected player, but challenges through block cards  30  are allowed. If a protected player freely gives up a claimed item, the player must start anew to establish three times rule protection. Processor  110  stores the number of times a player has successfully defended an item and thus designates through the video display  125 ,  140  the status of such claimed items. 
     Once the processes regarding the Targeted Player&#39;s options are complete, a process  312  is executed by the processor  110  at central location  105 . The processor  110  sends an output to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130 , through connection means  200 , which presents three options to the player continuing on as Trader: 1) take and open an unclaimed item; 2) take a claimed item or turn card  15  from another player that was not the most recent Targeted Player or Trader; or 3) request a new trader card  20  from the processor  110 . 
     If the Trader elects to take and open an unclaimed item, then the Trader inputs the decision to the processor  110  via connection means  200  through the interactive display terminal  115  where a process  306  is then executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  reveals non-disguised information related to the formerly unclaimed item to all players and the ringmaster through the video displays  125 ,  140 . The processor  110  further updates the players and ringmaster to show that the player, or Trader, has claimed this particular item. Upon selection of the unclaimed item, the turn automatically ends and the processor  110  identifies the next Trader based on the previously determined order of turn cards  15  through updating the video displays  125 ,  140 . 
     If the Trader elects to take a claimed item or turn card  15  from another player that was not the most recent Targeted Player or Trader, then the Trader inputs the decision to the processor  110  via connection means  200  through the interactive display terminal  115  where a process  305  is then executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  then displays the identity of the Targeted Player to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  via connection means  200  and play continues as previously described. 
     If the Trader elects to request a new trader card  20  from the processor  110 , then the Trader inputs the decision to the processor  110  via connection means  200  through the interactive display terminal  115  and process  313  is then executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  then selects the next trader card  20  and sends the trader card  20  to the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130 . The ringmaster accepts or rejects the trader card  20  on the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130  through input interface  135 , which communicates via connection means  200  to the central location  105 . If the ringmaster rejects the trader card  20  then a process  304  is executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105  and a new trader card  20  is sent to the ringmaster interactive display terminal  130 . If the ringmaster accepts the trader card  20  then a process  303  is executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105  and the trader card  20  is sent to all player interactive display terminals  115 . Play then continues as previously described. 
     There are two methods by which the game may come to an end. According to one method, the game ends after all unclaimed items are claimed. Once the last unclaimed item is claimed, a process  314  is executed by the processor  110  at the central location  105 . The processor  110  sends an output to all interactive display terminals  115 ,  130  informing the players and ringmaster of the game&#39;s end. In the alternative method, after all unclaimed items are claimed, the player who claimed the first item may return the claimed item, making the item unclaimed. If that player declines, then the game is over. If the player who claimed the first item elects to return the item, that player may then attempt to take any claimed item from a Targeted Player that does not have three times rule protection. Play continues until a Trader claims the remaining unclaimed item. 
     If game time is a factor, the ringmaster or host may set a time limit. Once the time limit has expired, the processor  110  will display those players who have not claimed an item. The processor  110 , already having determined the turn order and any subsequent trades, will display the player whose turn is next, and once all items are claimed, the game is over. 
     For items that were purchased through the online retailer, the processor  110  sends the required information necessary to claim the item from the online retailer to the Player who won that item via connection means  200  to that player&#39;s interactive display terminal  115 . 
     In an alternative embodiment, the connection  200  to the central location  105  may comprise totally remote access to the central location  105 , or may be a combination of a computer application or software downloaded to each remote terminal  115 ,  130  in order to communicate via connection  200  to the central location  105 . 
     The preferred method for the item exchange and trader game is ideal for use at: baby showers; birthdays; bridal showers; business offices; business training, education, and promotion; casinos and gaming centers; cities; regions; states; nationalities; community associations; conventions; co-ops; counseling groups and applications; court offices; customer appreciation parties; cruise ships/river boats; dental offices; education and training; fantasy trading games; festivals; fire department/emergency response offices; government agencies; law enforcement; medical offices; motion picture themes; military; national/state parks; non-profit organizations; public and private schools; research centers; religious themes, education, and training; resorts; retreat centers; sports teams &amp; events; tailgate parties; theme parks; youth organizations; weddings; formatting the game for multi-level competition including, but not limited to, local, regional, state, and national events; formatting the game for television or movie applications such as a televised game show; and international applications of all of the above. 
     The present method is described in terms of a preferred method. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other alternative methods of such a game may be used in carrying out the present method. Other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention may be obtained from a study of this disclosure and the drawings, along with the appended claims.