Method for configuring gaming devices via a network

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/987,293 filed Nov. 12, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

This disclosure relates generally to networked gaming devices and more particularly to configuring gaming devices via the network.

Player tracking systems for accumulating data related to the players of networked gaming devices, typically in casinos, are known in the prior art. In these systems, a player is urged to register with a casino by providing the casino with at least the player\'s name and address, although typically other demographic and personal information of interest to the casino is acquired. In exchange, the casino implements a mechanism, typically a player identification card issued to the player, which allows the player to be recognized at each gaming machine where the player gambles. This recognition typically results from inserting the card in a card reader associated with each of the gaming devices. The network then accumulates, in a record associated with the player, data related to the amount wagered by the player. This enables the casino to provide the player with points proportional to amounts wagered by the player. These points may be redeemed for goods and services, much like a frequent flier mileage program, including for further wagering. The casino can also base decisions to provide complementary goods and services the players based on their player tracking data.

It would be desirable to use similar systems or existing player tracking systems to configure gaming devices according to the desires of the casino or the player. It would also be beneficial to use such systems to accumulate information based on outcomes of games played by the players and to configure the gaming devices, including providing bonuses to the players, based on the accumulated information.