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Network architecture to support multiple site real-time video games

DC
  • US 5,586,257 A
  • Filed: 05/05/1994
  • Issued: 12/17/1996
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/05/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A system for directly linking a first computer having means for playing a multiple player video games with a second computer, said system comprising:

  • a network;

    said first computer coupled or previously coupled to said network;

    said second computer coupled or previously coupled to said network;

    a server coupled to said network, said server includes,a) means for receiving a request for direct linking from said first computer;

    b) means for receiving a request for direct linking from said second computer;

    c) means for matching said first computer with said second computer using matching criteria received from said first computer and said second computer;

    d) means for determining which of said first and second computers is a computer initiating a direct communication link between said first and second computers and which of said first and second computers is a computer receiving an invitation to link through said matching criteria;

    e) means for sending a network address of said computer receiving said invitation to link to said computer initiating said direct communication link; and

    said computer initiating said direct communication link further includes means for establishing said direct communication link with said computer receiving said invitation to link using said network address of said computer receiving said invitation to link, wherein at least one of said first computer or said second computer includes means for collecting game statistics while or after said multiple player video game is played.

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