DICE THROWING BOARD GAME

Abstract

Game board apparatuses for a dice throwing game and methods of playing the dice throwing game are provided. In embodiments, a game board apparatus for a dice throwing game includes a board having a playing surface including one or more scoring areas where dice are projected and roll to land for points. A score piece path is positioned on the playing surface, the score piece path including a plurality of score piece positions. A score piece is removably engageable with the score piece positions. In some instances, the score piece is positioned to block dice throws by an opponent player.

Claims

1. A game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, the apparatus comprising: a board having a playing surface where dice are projected and roll, the playing surface including one or more scoring areas where the dice land for points; a score piece path positioned on the playing surface, the score piece path comprising a plurality of score piece positions; and one or more score pieces removably engageable with one or more of the plurality of score piece positions and configured to block dice throws by an opponent player.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the playing surface is an unbounded rolling surface for the dice.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more scoring areas comprise: one or more primary scoring areas; and one or more enhanced scoring areas, at least one of the one or more enhanced scoring areas being positioned within the one or more primary scoring areas; and one or more alternate enhanced scoring areas.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the playing surface further comprises one or more penalty areas.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the board comprises a first playing surface component and a second playing surface component coupled to each other.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a closing feature configured to connect the first playing surface component and the second playing surface component and allow the first playing surface component and the second playing surface component to move with respect to each other between a playing position and a closed position.

7. The dice throwing game of claim 6 wherein the closing feature comprises at least one hinge.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more dice.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein at least one of the dice is a polyhedral dice including a plurality of facets, each facet denoting a points value.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the score pieces comprises a main body and a placement feature coupled to the main body, and the main body is configured to block the dice throws by the opponent player.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the board comprises a recess formed on a rear surface or a side surface of the board.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the score piece path has a Z shape.

13. A method of playing a dice throwing game, the method comprising: throwing dice by a player such that the dice are projected to roll and land on a playing surface of a game board; determining a final location of the dice on the playing surface; calculating a turn total for the player based at least in part on the determined final location of the dice; moving a score piece along a score piece path on the playing surface based on the turn total, the score piece path comprising a plurality of score piece positions; and removably engaging the score piece to one or more of the plurality of score piece positions such that the score piece blocks dice throws by an opponent player.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising deploying the game board from a closed position to a playing position.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein: the game board comprises a first playing surface component and a second playing surface component coupled to each other by a closing feature, the closing feature is configured to connect the first playing surface component and the second playing surface component and allow the first playing surface component and the second playing surface component to move with respect to each other between the playing position and the closed position.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising determining that the dice are thrown from behind a throw line on the playing surface.

17. The method of claim 13, further comprising determining that the dice roll on the playing surface at least once.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the moving a score piece along a score piece path comprises: moving the score piece incrementally forward for a positive turn total; and moving the score piece incrementally backward for a negative turn total.

19. The method of claim 13, further comprising determining that the score piece is positioned at an end position of the plurality of score piece positions of the score piece path.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising entering a redemption turn for an opponent player.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 is a top view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of example score pieces, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of example score pieces, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of playing a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of playing a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an example method of playing a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure.

[0042] While the disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. The intention, however, is not to limit the disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] As the terms are used herein with respect to measurements (e.g., dimensions, characteristics, attributes, components, etc.), and ranges thereof, of tangible things (e.g., products, inventory, etc.) and/or intangible things (e.g., data, electronic representations of currency, accounts, information, portions of things (e.g., percentages, fractions), calculations, data models, dynamic system models, algorithms, parameters, etc.), about and approximately may be used, interchangeably, to refer to a measurement that includes the stated measurement and that also includes any measurements that are reasonably close to the stated measurement, but that may differ by a reasonably small amount such as will be understood, and readily ascertained, by individuals having ordinary skill in the relevant arts to be attributable to measurement error; differences in measurement and/or manufacturing equipment calibration; human error in reading and/or setting measurements; adjustments made to optimize performance and/or structural parameters in view of other measurements (e.g., measurements associated with other things); particular implementation scenarios; imprecise adjustment and/or manipulation of things, settings, and/or measurements by a person, a computing device, and/or a machine; system tolerances; control loops; machine-learning; foreseeable variations (e.g., statistically insignificant variations, chaotic variations, system and/or model instabilities, etc.); preferences; and/or the like.

[0044] Although illustrative methods may be represented by one or more drawings (e.g., flow diagrams, communication flows, etc.), the drawings should not be interpreted as implying any requirement of, or particular order among or between, various steps disclosed herein. However, some embodiments may require certain steps and/or certain orders between certain steps, as may be explicitly described herein and/or as may be understood from the nature of the steps themselves (e.g., the performance of some steps may depend on the outcome of a previous step). Additionally, a set, subset, or group of items (e.g., inputs, algorithms, data values, etc.) may include one or more items, and, similarly, a subset or subgroup of items may include one or more items. A plurality means more than one.

[0045] As used herein, the term based on is not meant to be restrictive, but rather indicates that a determination, identification, prediction, calculation, and/or the like, is performed by using, at least, the term following based on as an input. For example, predicting an outcome based on a particular piece of information may additionally, or alternatively, base the same determination on another piece of information.

[0046] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this disclosure also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as they fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0047] There is a desire to develop board-based dice throwing games focusing on, for example, the intersection of skillful throwing of objects and chance elements. There is also a continued demand for new games that promote excitement, are simple to learn, can be played anywhere, and retain interest over time. For example, dice throwing games with skill, luck, and strategy elements and without high complexity are in high demand in the board game space, which provides enhanced entertainment, encourages new learners, and allows players of all ages to compete. The use of a compact playing surface in the space of collaborative, skilled, throwing games is also desired. This allows for the dice throwing game to be played anywhere and to target a variety of audiences.

[0048] According to certain embodiments, dice throwing games are provided to excel in the above listed areas, of which other dice games, throwing games, and dice throwing games often fall short of in one way or another. In some embodiments, methods and apparatuses for playing a dice throwing game are provided to offer players an immersive gaming experience enriched by strategic depth and aesthetic appeal.

[0049] In certain embodiments, a game board apparatus for a dice throwing game includes a board having a playing surface. The playing surface includes one or more scoring areas. A score piece path is positioned on the playing surface, the score piece path includes a plurality of score piece positions. One or more score pieces are removably engageable with one or more of the plurality of score piece positions. In some embodiments, the score pieces are positioned to block dice throws by an opponent player.

[0050] FIG. 1 is a top view of an example game board apparatus 100 for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the example game board apparatus 100. In certain embodiments, the game board apparatus 100 includes a game board or base 110. The base 110 extends along a longitudinal direction between a first end 111 and a second end 113 and has a first side surface 117 and a second side surface 119.

[0051] In some embodiments, the base 110 includes a first surface component 112 and a second playing surface component 114 coupled to each other at a connection location 115. The first playing surface component 112 and the second playing surface component 114 can be coupled to each other by any suitable mechanisms. In some embodiments, the first playing surface component 112 and the second playing surface component 114 can be substantially the same and serve as a first half component and a second half component of the base 110.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the base 110 includes a playing surface 120 on which a dice throwing game can be played. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the playing surface 120 can be a flat, open dice-throwing surface without edge barriers to keep dice from falling off. In some embodiments, the playing surface 120 includes a first playing surface 122 on the first surface component 112 and a second playing surface 124 on the second playing surface component 114. In some embodiments, the first playing surface 122 and the second playing surface 124 can be substantially the same and serve as a first half playing surface and a second half playing surface of the playing surface 120.

[0053] In some embodiments, the playing surface 120 can have a shape selected from, for example, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a cross, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, a nonagon, a decagon, a trapezoid, a quadrilateral, a combination thereof, and the like.

[0054] In some embodiments, the playing surface 120 can be made from at least one material selected from wood, metal, plastic, glass, ceramic, rubber, vinyl, leather, fabric, foam, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0055] In certain embodiments, each of the first playing surface 122 and the second playing surface 124 includes one or more primary scoring areas 130. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, each of the first playing surface 122 and the second playing surface 124 includes a scoring area 130 positioned adjacent to the respective first end 111 and the second end 113. Each of the primary scoring areas 130 has a respective boundary line 133. In some embodiments, the boundary lines 133 can be substantially parallel to the respective first end 111 and/or second end 113.

[0056] In some embodiments, at least one of primary scoring areas 130 has a shape selected from, for example, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, a nonagon, a decagon, a circle, an oval, an ellipse, a trapezoid, a quadrilateral, any shape formed by one or more lines through the shapes, any combinations thereof, and the like.

[0057] In some embodiments, an enhanced scoring area 135 is provided within one or more of the primary scoring areas 130. An enhanced scoring area can include, for example, a hole or a recessed portion formed into the playing surface 120. In some embodiments, the enhanced scoring area 135 can be positioned at a central area of the primary scoring area 130. In some embodiments, one or more enhanced scoring areas 135 can be positioned at other desired location on the playing surface 120 to add challenge to gameplay dynamics and offer players an additional strategic avenue to explore.

[0058] In some embodiments, at least one of enhanced scoring areas 135 has a shape selected from, for example, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, a nonagon, a decagon, a circle, an oval, an ellipse, a trapezoid, a quadrilateral, any shape formed by one or more lines through the shapes, any combinations thereof, and the like.

[0059] In certain embodiments, the game board apparatus 100 includes one or more alternate enhanced scoring areas 140. In some embodiments, the alternate enhanced scoring areas 140 can be placed in a corner of the playing surface 120 adjacent to the respective first end 111 and/or second end 113. An alternate enhanced scoring area can introduce further complexity to the game, encouraging players to consider diverse tactics and angles of approach. Each area of a primary scoring area, an enhanced scoring area, and an alternate enhanced scoring area can be spacious enough to accommodate one or more dice (e.g., dice 80 in FIG. 3), and provide the foundational structure for scoring.

[0060] In some embodiments, at least one of the alternate enhanced scoring areas 140 has a shape selected from, for example, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, a nonagon, a decagon, a circle, an oval, an ellipse, a trapezoid, a quadrilateral, any shape formed by one or more lines through said shapes, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0061] In some embodiments, one or more penalty areas (not shown in FIG. 1) can be added to the playing surface 120 to provide more avenues for strategy and increase the stakes of high-risk throws.

[0062] According to certain embodiments, the versatility of the game board apparatus 100 extends to its structural composition and aesthetic appeal. The playing surface 120 accommodates various geometric shapes and colors and caters to diverse preferences or game styles. For example, the various scoring areas are not limited in the way that they are defined. The playing surface 120 may be cut, burned, colored, etched, painted, printed, or overlaid in any form to define scoring and penalty areas. Additionally, the game board apparatus 100 offers flexibility in material selection, with options ranging from wood, to plastic, to metal, ensuring durability and functionality of the aforementioned playing mechanisms. This versatility further extends to at least some of the scoring areas, the enhanced scoring areas, the alternate enhanced scoring areas, and/or the penalty areas.

[0063] In certain embodiments, the game board apparatus 100 includes a score piece path 150 positioned on each of the first playing surface 122 and the second playing surface 124 of the playing surface 120. The score piece path 150 includes a set of score piece positions 155 including, for example, a start position 151, one or more mediate positions, and an end position 159. The set of score piece positions 155, from the start position 151, through the one or more mediate positions 155, to the end position 159, can correspond to respective points scored during a game. In some embodiments, a sequence of scoring can be defined from the start position 151, through the one or more mediate positions 155, to the end position 159. The score piece path 150 may include any number of positions 155. In some embodiments, the score piece path 150 can include at least five score piece positions. The set of score piece positions 155 can be placed in any orientation. Any score position 155 may be defined as a start position 151, a mediate position 155, an end position 159, or any combination of the positions.

[0064] In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the game board apparatus 100 further includes one or more score pieces 170 to be engaged with the one or more score piece positions 155 of the score piece path 150 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1). According to certain embodiments, the apparatus 100 includes a plurality of score pieces 170. Each score pieces 170 is capable of temporary fixation to one of the score piece positions 155.

[0065] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, an example score piece 70 includes a main body 72 and a placement feature 75 coupled to the main body 72. The placement feature 75 can be removably attached to one of the score piece positions 155. In some embodiments, the placement feature 75 can be temporarily attached to a score piece position by, for example, a peg, a magnet, a tenon, an adhesive, a suction cup, and the like. In some embodiments, the main body 72 has a first diameter, and the placement feature 75 has a second diameter. The first diameter is greater than the second diameter. The main body 72 can be configured to block the dice throws by an opponent player. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, a first score piece 70 can be temporarily stack on top of or temporarily attach to a second score piece 70 by, for example, a peg, a magnet, a tenon, an adhesive, a suction cup, and the like. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, the main body 72 includes a recess 722 on a top surface 721 configured to receive the placement feature 75.

[0066] A score piece can have variable geometries, shapes, and configurations. According to some embodiments, a score piece can have a shape selected from, for example, a cube, a cuboid, a pyramid, a cone, a prism, a cylinder, a sphere, a polyhedron, a hemisphere, a combination thereof, and the like. As shown in FIG. 12, example score piece 70a-e having variable geometries, shapes, and configurations are illustrated. In some embodiments, a score piece may be flipped upside down and temporarily attached to a score piece position in the flipped orientation by using, for example, at least one mechanism selected from pegs, magnets, tenons, adhesive, suction cups, and the like. In some embodiments, a score piece can be made from at least one material selected from wood, metal, plastic, glass, ceramic, rubber, vinyl, leather, fabric, foam, any combinations thereof, and the like.

[0067] Referring again to FIG. 3, the score piece 170 can be positioned to follow the score piece path 150 between the start position 151 and the end position 159 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1). The score piece path 150 may also include any number of mediate positions 155, defined such that a score piece 170 reaches each mediate position 155 before the end position 159 may be reached. The score piece path 150 located on the playing surface 120 may include any number of positions placed in any orientation. In some embodiments, the score piece path 150 ensures a dynamic interplay between a dice 80 thrown and the scoring areas 130, and is located anywhere on the playing surface 120 such that it may interfere with the dice 80 thrown onto the playing surface 120.

[0068] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, a player 90 tosses dice 80, which can roll at least once, into defined scoring areas to achieve points. In some embodiments, the dice 80 can be polyhedral dice. In some embodiments, the dice 80 can be in the shape of a regular polyhedral with a number of facets selected from, for example, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 20. The difficulty level of achieving a dice 80 landing position, and the dice value 85 denoted on its upward facing surface upon landing, count toward points. The player 90 uses the score pieces 170 to sequentially navigate the score piece path 150 defined on the playing surface 120 according to the points scored and in order to achieve an end position 159.

[0069] In some embodiments, the one or more score pieces 170 cross function as barriers to block dice throws. The one or more score pieces 170 are removably engaged with one or more of the score piece positions 155 along the score piece path 150 to provide a dynamically variable obstacle for blocking dice throws from an opponent player. For example, in various embodiments, the one or more score pieces are positioned along the score piece path to block the opponent player's throws from landing on various scoring areas. The inclusion and dual purpose of the score pieces 170 as both barriers and score counters allows enhanced challenge and strategy of throws without requiring additional space, components, or strenuous mental effort. In some embodiments, when the dice 80 hits one or more of the score pieces 170 in position, the player/team may receive or lose points.

[0070] In some embodiments, the playing surface 120 can be an unbounded rolling surface for dice, lacking walls to contain dice on the playing surface. In some instances, the playing surface 120 has one or more flat edges at the first end 111, the second 113, the first side surface 117, and/or the second side surface 119. No side walls are provided at the flat edges or at least a portion of the flat edges of the playing surface 120 to prevent the dice from falling off the playing surface 120. In this manner, no walls can be relied upon to score points. This no-wall design choice also opens up a variety of manufacturing options and allows for additional folding or closing capabilities. It also opens up options for customizability at minimal added cost through use of, but not limited to, surface decals, paint, direct prints, burns, cuts, or etches.

[0071] In some embodiments, the playing surface 120 may be provided a wall (not shown) at a portion of the edges to prevent the dice from falling onto the floor. In some embodiments, there is a penalty for the dice hitting the wall, or no points can be scored.

[0072] According to certain embodiments, game board apparatuses and methods of playing a board game are provided, which may require physical skill and rewards players for improving their skills, encouraging repetition of play. The game's simplicity yields fast improvement and success from its players, which offers an immediate sense of accomplishment. In addition, the chance element from associating points with dice value 85, and the random direction in which dice 80 bounce when rolled, make the game challenging to master. This need for players to have a combination of skill and luck leads to a game that draws players in during their first game, and keeps them coming back for continued fun and improbable perfection. Giving players the choice between different scoring areas to aim for adds a strategy element for an enjoyable, but not strenuous, amount of mental stimulation.

[0073] According to certain embodiments, game board apparatuses and methods of playing a board game described herein can achieve a unique collaborative gameplay on any indoor or outdoor surface and with minimal surrounding space.

[0074] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 for playing a dice throwing game is a design catering to a simple, engaging, and strategic game play. Central to its functionality is the playing surface 120, built to host the game's dynamics. In some embodiments, the playing surface 120 can be accompanied by a rear base surface (e.g., a rear base surface 215 in FIG. 5), and side surfaces 117 and 119. The rear base surface may be parallel or angled relative to the playing surface 120, such that the playing surface's angle relative to the ground is affected. The side surfaces 117 and 119 can be perpendicular or oblique to the playing surface 120.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the apparatus 100 includes a closing feature (not shown in FIGS. 1-3, see FIGS. 5 and 6 for examples) that allows the apparatus 100 to move from a playing or open position to a closed position. For example, FIG. 3 illustrates the apparatus 100 at a playing or open position. FIG. 6 illustrates a game board apparatus 400 at a closed position which can store game pieces and/or is more compact than the playing or open position in FIG. 3.

[0076] In some embodiments, the closing feature, perhaps implemented through use of at least one hinge and/or modular component, enhances portability and storage convenience, making the apparatus 100 adaptable to various travel environments. In this case, the playing surface may be separated into a plurality of components at one or more connection locations 115. In some embodiments, a single game apparatus 100 may have a plurality of playing/open positions or closed positions.

[0077] In some embodiments, one or more closing features can be provided to facilitate the separation of the playing surface 120 into a plurality of modular components and temporarily connect the modular components to each other. The one or more closing features can include, for example, fasteners, magnets, pegs, adhesives, brackets, straps, zippers, buckles, slots, snap-fits, latches, elastic bands, hooks, loops, and any combinations thereof.

[0078] In some embodiments, the separate playing surface components 112 and 114 can be temporarily constrained to one another in various orientations, such as, for example, the playing position in FIG. 3 or the closed position in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the constraint can be achieved using one or more fixture elements including, for example, fasteners, magnets, pegs, adhesives, brackets, straps, zippers, buckles, slots, snap-fits, latches, elastic bands, hooks, or loops. In some embodiments, a fixture element temporarily constrains at least one degree of freedom of the playing surface components relative to one another. In some embodiments, the fixture elements can be coupled to an external surface of the playing surface components 112 on which the playing surface 120 is placed. Examples of temporary fixture elements or attachment mechanisms are show in FIGS. 5-8, which will be described further below.

[0079] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 accommodates a range of shapes, colors, and facets for the dice 80 and the score pieces 170. Players may opt for any number of dice 80 facets and may experiment with unconventional dice projections for increased grip such as feathers or strings. The points value denoted on each face of the dice 80 may be indicated in any artistic form such as numbers, dots, pictures, or colors. Different configurations of the size and shape of the score piece 170 can be used to create various scoring challenges. In some embodiments, the dice 80 must roll on the board at least once, and the dice 80 uses multisided dice and not a sphere/bean bag/sliding disk, which can add an element of randomness in the direction which the die 80 bounces on the board.

[0080] In some embodiments, the score piece 170 has at least one placement feature 175 allowing it to be temporarily attached to score piece positions 155 by any means including but not limited to pegs, magnets, tenons, adhesive, and suction cups. The orientation of the score piece 170 with a plurality of placement features 75 may have strategic value, or its orientation may signal that a mediate position has been reached.

[0081] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, a score piece 70 may also temporarily stack on top of, or temporarily attach to other score pieces with a placement feature 75 by any means, including but not limited to pegs, magnets, tenons, adhesive, and suction cups. Geometric variability in the game pieces fosters creativity and diversity in gameplay, but also provides alternative methods for achieving the desired function of a game piece.

[0082] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, different player locations 95 are provided. The game may include any number of players 90 or teams, but commonly includes two teams of one or two players 90 each. Teams may stand on opposite ends 111 and 113 of the base 110. In some cases, players of the same team stand next to each other, or teams may be separated such that players stand next to their opponents. Any given scoring area (e.g., the scoring areas 130, 135, 140, and the like) may be assigned to any or all teams, as long as a scoring path (e.g., the score piece path 150) is positioned between the throwing player and the primary scoring area 130, such that the team receives points for landing dice in the area. Any given score piece path (e.g., the score piece path 150) may be assigned to any or all teams.

[0083] In some embodiments, points are received by teams based on throw results. The trajectory of dice throws, the landing position of dice throws, and the dice value 85 on the top surface of the dice in the landing position, may all be used to evaluate a throw result. Points values for throw results are defined before gameplay in the game rules. A team may receive any number of positive, negative, or zero points based on the throw result and dice value. For example, throwing dice into the primary scoring area 130 may award an equal amount of points to the dice value 85 and throwing dice into the enhanced scoring area 135 may award ten points no matter the dice facet. Landing dice in a score area yields favorable results to the throwing player's team, and landing dice in a penalty area yields unfavorable results to the throwing player's team. A dice landing such that it is partially in one area and partially in another, may be defined as in either area depending on the defined rules. A favorable result either awards the player's team positive points or awards or the opponent team negative points. An unfavorable result either awards the player's team negative points or awards the opponent's team positive points. Positive points move a team's score piece 170 sequentially forward one position 155 for each point. Negative points move a team's score piece 170 sequentially backward one position 155 for each point. Forward is defined as the next closest position 155 in the direction toward the next un-reached mediate position 155 or toward the end position 159 if all mediate positions have been reached. Backward is defined as the next closest position 155 in the direction toward the last reached mediate position 155 or toward the start position 151 if no mediate positions have been reached.

[0084] In some embodiments, the playing surface 120 may include any number of dead areas. A dead area is defined as an area on the playing surface that yields no points when a dice lands within that area. A throw result or dice value that yields no points is defined as a dead result. A dice hitting a score piece, a barrier, or another dice on a throw may be defined as a favorable result, an unfavorable result, or a dead result. A dice hanging off the edge of the scoring surface after a throw may be defined as a favorable result, an unfavorable result, or a dead result. Players 90 may catch, kick or pass the dice with any portion of their body if it rolls off the playing surface, which may be defined as a favorable result, an unfavorable result, or a dead result. Landing a plurality of dice on the same dice value may be defined as a favorable result, an unfavorable result, or a dead result. A player may attempt to call the result of a throw, which may be defined as a favorable result, negative result, or dead result, pending the outcome of that throw. It may be required in the rules that players 90 throw dice above a defined height.

[0085] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus 200 for a dice throwing game at a closed position, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the example game board apparatus 200 at a partially open position. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of example game board apparatus 300 at a partially open position. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of example game board apparatus 400.

[0086] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the game board apparatus 200 includes a base 210 including a first half component 212 and a second half component 214 coupled to each other. The base 210 includes a playing surface 220 and a score piece path 250 disposed on the playing surface 220. In some embodiments, the game board apparatus 200 includes one or more closing feature 255 positioned to connect to the respective edges of the first half component 212 and the second half component 214. In some embodiments, the closing feature 255 can include, for example, one or more hinges. The first half component 212 and the second half component 214 of the game board apparatus 200 can rotate with respect to each other between a completely closed position (e.g., FIG. 4), a partially closed/opening position (e.g., FIG. 5), and an open position (e.g., FIG. 1).

[0087] In some embodiments, the game board apparatus 200 includes a fixture element 265 to fix the game board apparatus 200 in a closed position. The fixture element 265 can include a pair of magnets disposed on the respective first half component 212 and second half component 214.

[0088] In some embodiments, the game board apparatus 200 includes a separation aid 270 to facilitate the opening of the game board apparatus 200 from a closed position. The separation aid 270 can include, for example, a recess, an attachment aid, and the like. The separation aid 270 can be positioned on the rear surface 215 or a side surface 217.

[0089] In some embodiments, the game board apparatus 200 includes a storage recess 280 that allows one or more dice 80, and one or more score pieces 70 to be stored within the apparatus 200 at a closed position. The storage recess 280 can be positioned on the rear surface 215 or the side surface 217.

[0090] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, a game board apparatus 300 includes one or more fixture element 365. The fixture element 365 is positioned adjacent to a closing feature 355 (e.g., a hinge) at the respective edges 315 of the first and second playing surface components 312 and 314. The fixture element 365 can temporarily constrain at least one degree of freedom of first and second playing surface components 312 and 314 relative to one another. In some embodiments, the fixture element 365 can include one or more elements such as, for example, fasteners, magnets, pegs, adhesives, brackets, straps, zippers, buckles, slots, snap-fits, latches, elastic bands, hooks, loops, and the like.

[0091] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, a game board apparatus 400 includes one or more fixture element 465. The fixture element 465 is positioned at the respective edges 415 of the first and second playing surface components 412 and 414 to temporarily constrain at least one degree of freedom of the first and second playing surface components 412 and 414 relative to one another. In some embodiments, the fixture element 465 can include one or more elements such as, for example, fasteners, magnets, pegs, adhesives, brackets, straps, zippers, buckles, slots, snap-fits, latches, elastic bands, hooks, loops, and the like.

[0092] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 8, a game board apparatus 500 includes one or more fixture elements 565. One or more of the fixture elements 565 can be positioned at least partially on the playing surface 520 to temporarily constrain at least one degree of freedom of the first and second playing surface components 512 and 514 relative to one another. In some embodiments, the fixture elements 565 can include one or more elements such as, for example, fasteners, magnets, pegs, adhesives, brackets, straps, zippers, buckles, slots, snap-fits, latches, elastic bands, hooks, loops, and the like.

[0093] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus 600 for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure. In certain embodiments, the game board apparatus 600 includes a base 610. The base 610 extends along a longitudinal direction between a first end 611 and a second end 613 and has side surfaces 617.

[0094] In some embodiments, the base 610 can have a size or dimension to be portable. For example, in some instances, the base 610 may have a length from about 20 inches to 60 inches (one inch=2.54 centimeters), a width from about to about of the length. In one embodiment, the base 610 has a length of about 36 inches to about 50 inches and a width of about 9 inches to about 12 inches. In some embodiments, when the base 610 is folded to closed, the length can be reduced to half or less.

[0095] In some embodiments, the base 610 includes a first playing surface component 612 and a second playing surface component 614 coupled to each other at a connection location 615. The first playing surface component 612 and the second playing surface component 614 can be coupled to each other by any suitable mechanisms. In some embodiments, the first playing surface component 612 and the second playing surface component 614 can be substantially the same and serve as a first half component and a second half component of the base 610.

[0096] In certain embodiments, the base 610 includes a playing surface 620 on which a dice throwing game can be played. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the playing surface 620 can be a flat surface. In some embodiments, the playing surface 620 includes a first playing surface 622 on the first playing surface component 612 and a second playing surface 624 on the second playing surface component 614. In some embodiments, the first playing surface 622 and the second playing surface 624 can be substantially the same and serve as a first half playing surface and a second half playing surface of the playing surface 620.

[0097] In certain embodiments, each of the first playing surface 622 and the second playing surface 624 includes one or more primary scoring areas 630. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, each of the first playing surface 622 and the second playing surface 624 includes a primary scoring area 630 positioned adjacent to the respective first end 611 and the second end 613. Each of the primary scoring areas 630 has a respective boundary line 633. In some embodiments, the boundary lines 633 can be substantially parallel to the respective first end 611 and/or second end 613.

[0098] In some embodiments, a first enhanced scoring area 635 is provided within one or more of the primary scoring area 630. An enhanced scoring area can include, for example, a hole or a recessed portion formed into the playing surface 620. In some embodiments, the first enhanced scoring area 635 can be positioned at a central area of the primary scoring area 630. The enhanced scoring area 635 can add challenge to gameplay dynamics and offer players an additional strategic avenue to explore.

[0099] In certain embodiments, the game board apparatus 600 includes one or more alternate enhanced scoring areas. In some embodiments, one or more alternate enhanced scoring areas 640 can be placed in a corner of the playing surface 620 adjacent to the respective first end 611 and/or second end 613. An alternate enhanced scoring area can introduce further complexity to the game, encouraging players to consider diverse tactics and angles of approach. Each area of a primary scoring area, an enhanced scoring area, and an alternate enhanced scoring area can be spacious enough to accommodate one or more dice (e.g., the dice 80 in FIG. 3), and provide the foundational structure for scoring.

[0100] In some embodiments, one or more penalty areas 660 can be added to the playing surface 620 to provide more avenues for strategy and increase the stakes of high-risk throws. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9, the one or more penalty areas 660 are positioned at a central area of the playing surface 620, on each side of the connection location 615.

[0101] In some embodiments, at least one of the penalty areas 660 has a shape selected from a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, a nonagon, a decagon, a circle, an oval, an ellipse, a trapezoid, a quadrilateral, any shape formed by one or more lines through said shapes, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0102] In some embodiments, a second enhanced scoring area 662 is provided within the one or more penalty areas 660. An enhanced scoring area can include, for example, a hole or a recessed portion formed into the playing surface 620. In some embodiments, the second enhanced scoring area 662 can be positioned at a central area of the one or more penalty areas 660.

[0103] In certain embodiments, the game board apparatus 600 includes a score piece path 650 positioned on each of the first playing surface 622 and the second playing surface 624 of the playing surface 620. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9, the score piece path 650 is positioned between the primary scoring areas 630 and the penalty areas 660 on the playing surface 620.

[0104] In some embodiments, the score piece path 650 includes a set of score piece positions 655 including, for example, a start position 651, one or more mediate positions, and an end position 659. The set of score piece positions 655, from the start position 651, through the one or more mediate positions, to the end position 659, can correspond to respective points scored during a game. The score piece path 650 may also include any number of score piece positions 655. A sequence of scoring can be defined from the start position 651, through the one or more mediate positions, to the end position 659. The set of score piece positions 655 can be placed in any orientation. Any score position 655 may be defined as a start position 651, a mediate position 655, an end position 659, or any combination of the positions.

[0105] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9, the score piece path 650 includes multiple sections 652, 654 and 656. Each section includes a subset of score piece positions 655. The multiple sections 652, 654 and 656 are arranged on the playing surface 620 to form a Z shape. In some embodiments, the first section 652 and the second section 656 are substantially parallel to the first end 611 or the second end 613. The third section 654 connects to the first section 652 and the second section 656 and is oblique to the first end 611 or the second end 613.

[0106] In certain embodiments, the game board apparatus 600 further includes one or more score pieces (not shown in FIG. 9, see example score pieces 170 in FIG. 3). The one or more score pieces can be engaged with the one or more score piece positions 655 of the score piece path 650. Each score pieces is capable of temporary fixation to one of the score piece positions 655.

[0107] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example game board apparatus 700 for a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure. The game board apparatus 700 includes a throw line 760 on a playing surface 720. The throw line 760 may be defined as any line or curve on the playing surface 720. A dice is released from a player's hand from behind the throw line 760. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10, the throw line 760 is positioned between a score piece path 750 and a connection location 715 at a central area of the playing surface 720. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the score piece path 750 can be positioned between the throw line 760 and the connection location 715.

[0108] In some embodiments, the playing surface 720 includes one or more primary scoring area 730 and one or more enhanced scoring areas 735 positioned within the one or more primary scoring area 730.

[0109] In some embodiments, the playing surface 720 includes one or more alternate enhanced scoring areas 740 positioned in one or more corners of the playing surface 720.

[0110] Throw results may be further associated with player actions, such that players 90 perform actions as a result of defined throw results. For example, throws may be associated with the drinking of one or more beverages by players, where players take one or more sips of their beverage upon favorable and unfavorable throws. Throw results may also award turns to or remove turns from throwing or opposing teams. A turn is defined as a segment of the dice throwing game where one or more dice 80 are thrown. Points are tallied at the end of a turn, and the turn ends with score pieces 70 being moved.

[0111] Game rules are used to define gameplay, and variations of the game rules will be described further below, according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, players can start a game by placing their team's score piece at a start position of a score piece path. In embodiments, a player may only throw a dice when it's their turn and score pieces are moved at the end of the turn. Turns may include a single throw, a plurality of throws, throws from just one team, or a combination of throws from a plurality of teams.

[0112] FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 1300 of playing a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure. FIG. 13 illustrates an example turn, where throwing players receive allocated dice (Block 1302 in FIG. 13), and a throwing player throws one or more dice per turn (Block 1304 in FIG. 13). The dice is released from the player's hand from behind the throw line (Block 1306 in FIG. 13) and rolls on the playing surface at least once (Block 1308 in FIG. 13). When the dice is not released from the player's hand from behind a throw line (Block 1306 in FIG. 13) and/or the dice does not roll on the playing surface at least once (Block 1308 in FIG. 13), the throw is disqualified and worth no points (Block 1310 in FIG. 13). The throw line may be defined as any line or curve on the playing surface of the apparatus. When there are any remaining allocated dice to be thrown by that player or another player for the turn (Block 1312 in FIG. 13), Blocks 1304, 1306, 1308 and 1310 can be repeated.

[0113] Once all the dice are thrown for the turn, teams check if there are any win throw results (Block 1314 in FIG. 13). A win throw result is defined as any throw that automatically moves a team's score piece to the end position. In one variation of the rules, a throw landing in an alternate enhanced scoring area may be defined as a win result. If a win throw result is achieved, the game either ends in favor of that team, advances to a redemption turn, or advances to a tiebreak (Block 1316 in FIG. 13, to be further explained below).

[0114] If a win throw result is not achieved during the turn, teams advance to adding their score for the round (Block 1318 in FIG. 13). All points for the round are added or subtracted to a turn total for each team based on the throw results and the final positions of the dice 80 on the playing surface 120. Dice may be knocked into or out of defined areas of the playing surface before the turn is over. For a positive turn total (Block 1320 in FIG. 13), a team moves its score piece incrementally forward for the same number of allotted positions as points (Block 1322 in FIG. 13). For a negative turn total (Block 1324 in FIG. 13), a team moves its score piece incrementally backward for the same number of allotted positions as points (Block 1326 in FIG. 13). For a zero turn total (Block 1328 in FIG. 13), a team's score piece does not move. If a score piece is located at the start position, it may not be able to move backwards any further, and thus would not move for a negative points total. In one variation of the game rules, if a positive turn total is achieved with more points than the number of score piece positions between the current score piece position and the end position, the score piece would not move. In another variation of the game rules, a cancellation scoring method is used, where only the team with the most points moves their score piece, and the team with the most points subtracts the score of a team with less points from their score to determine their turn total. Any other actions associated with the throw results would take place at this time.

[0115] Following the movement of the score pieces, teams check the score piece positions (Block 1330 in FIG. 13). If a score piece has reached the end position, either the opponent team gets a redemption turn, the game advances to a tiebreak, or the game ends in favor of the team at the end position (Block 1316 in FIG. 13). If no team has reached the end position at the end of the turn, the next players become throwing players (Block 1332 in FIG. 13) and receive the allocated dice for their turn (Block 1302 in FIG. 13). The game ends when only one team has a score piece at the end position and any allowed redemption turns are completed.

[0116] FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 1400 of playing a dice throwing game, in accordance with embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure. One variation of a redemption turn is outlined in FIG. 14. The goal of the redemption turn is to give the opposing teams a final shot to keep the game going and to add excitement to the game. A redemption turn may or may not vary from non-redemption turns. Redemption turns may not be included in all varieties of the rules.

[0117] In some embodiments, as illustrated in an example redemption turn in FIG. 14, a player receives one dice for the redemption turn (Block 1402 in FIG. 14), and the player throws one or more dice per turn (Block 1404 in FIG. 14). The dice is released from the player's hand from behind the throw line (Block 1406 in FIG. 14) and rolls on the playing surface at least once (Block 1408 in FIG. 14). When the dice is not released from the player's hand from behind a throw line (Block 1406 in FIG. 14) and/or the dice does not roll on the playing surface at least once (Block 1408 in FIG. 14), the throw is disqualified and worth no points (Block 1410 in FIG. 14). The throw line may be defined as any line or curve on the playing surface or the game board apparatus. Once all the dice are thrown for the turn, teams check if there are any win throw results (Block 1414 in FIG. 14). A win throw result is defined as any throw that automatically moves a team's score piece to the end position. In one variation of the rules, a throw landing in an alternate enhanced scoring area may be defined as a win result.

[0118] If a win throw result is achieved, it is a tiebreak where both teams move their score pieces backwards to a predefined position and non-redemption turns resume (Block 1432 in FIG. 14). If a win throw result is not achieved during the turn, teams advance to adding their score for the round (Block 1418 in FIG. 14). All points for the round are added or subtracted to a turn total for each team based on the throw results and the final positions of the dice on the playing surface. Dice may be knocked into or out of defined areas of the playing surface before the turn is over. For a positive turn total (Block 1420 in FIG. 14), the player moves its score piece incrementally forward for the same number of allotted positions as points (Block 1422 in FIG. 14). For a negative turn total (Block 1424 in FIG. 14) or a zero turn total (Block 1428 in FIG. 14), it follows by other player's redemption turn or the game is over (Block 1426 in FIG. 14).

[0119] Following the movement of the score pieces, teams check the score piece positions (Block 1430 in FIG. 14). If a score piece has reached the end position, the game advances to a tiebreak (Block 1432 in FIG. 14). If a score piece has not reached the end position, the player moves its score piece incrementally forward for the same number of allotted positions as points (Block 1422 in FIG. 14). In some embodiments, a player can keep playing during redemption in the case where a positive turn total is achieved. In contrast, if it is a negative turn total, the game is over for that player. The game ends when only one team has a score piece at the end position and any allowed redemption turns are completed. In some embodiments, game ends if no points are scored or negative points are scored. An additional turn for that player is achieved if positive points are scored by him/her. A play can continue until the player fails the redemption model.

[0120] In various embodiments, changes and adaptations to one or both game playing rules/methods, and the game board apparatuses described here can be made without straying from the essence and purpose of the disclosure. Alternative scoring methods from those described can be implemented if preferred. All such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the disclosure.

[0121] FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of a method 1500 of using or playing board game apparatuses described herein. One or more steps or blocks of method 1500 are optional and/or can be modified by one or more steps of other embodiments described herein. Additionally, one or more steps or blocks of other embodiments described herein may be added to the method 1500.

[0122] The method 1500 includes throwing dice by a player such that the dice are directed on a playing surface of a game board (block 1502). The method 1500 further includes determining a final location of the dice on the playing surface (block 1504). The method 1500 further includes calculating a turn total for the player based at least in part on the determined final location of the dice (block 1506). The method 1500 further includes moving a score piece along a score piece path on the playing surface based on the turn total (block 1508). The score piece path includes a plurality of score piece positions. The method 1500 further includes removably engaging the score piece to one or more of the plurality of score piece positions such that the score piece blocks dice throws by an opponent player (block 1510).

[0123] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes deploying the game board from a closed position to a playing position.

[0124] In some embodiments, the game board includes a first playing surface component and a second playing surface component coupled to each other by a closing feature. The closing feature is configured to connect the first playing surface component and the second playing surface component and allow the first playing surface component and the second playing surface component to move with respect to each other between the playing position and the closed position.

[0125] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes determining that the dice are thrown from behind a throw line on the playing surface.

[0126] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes determining that the dice roll on the playing surface at least once.

[0127] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes determining that the dice are thrown from behind a throw line on the playing surface.

[0128] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes moving the score piece incrementally forward for a positive turn total.

[0129] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes moving the score piece incrementally backward for a negative turn total.

[0130] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes determining that the score piece is positioned at an end position of the plurality of score piece positions of the score piece path.

[0131] In some embodiments, the method 1500 further includes entering a redemption turn for an opponent player.

[0132] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary instances discussed without departing from the scope of the disclosed subject matter. For example, while the instances described above refer to particular features, the scope of this disclosure also includes instances having different combinations of features and instances that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the disclosed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.