Zynga Inc.

Stephen Henry Schoettler

Matthew Adam Ocko

Mark Pincus

Carl Eric Schiermeyer

Michael Arieh Luxton

Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for limiting transfer of virtual currency in an online game. One method includes an operation for receiving, at a server, a purchase order for virtual currency from a first player. The purchase order is made with legal currency, and the virtual currency is usable within a computer-implemented gambling game. Further, the method includes operations for using a particular type of virtual currency available in an account of the first player to purchase a virtual item and a beneficiary is selected for crediting the virtual item. Account of the first player is adjusted to reflect the purchase of the virtual item and the account of the beneficiary is updated to credit the virtual item.

Limiting transfer of virtual currency in a multiuser online game

Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for limiting transfer of virtual currency in an online game. One method includes an operation for receiving, at a server, a purchase order for virtual currency from a first player. The purchase order is made with legal currency, and the virtual currency is usable within a computer-implemented gambling game. Further, the method includes operations for crediting an account of the first player with virtual currency, and for enabling the first player to make transfers of the virtual currency to other players. The transfers of virtual currency from the first player to other players are then limited, such as by limiting the amount, the frequency, or the recipients of the transfers.

In various embodiments, virtual currency is used within a multiplayer online game in a restricted manner.

Virtual playing chips in a multiuser online game network

Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for executing game transactions in an online game to acquire virtual currency. One method includes an operation for detecting a request from a player to purchase virtual currency for use in the online game. Cash or credit is received, in an online transaction, to make the purchase of the virtual currency. The virtual currency of the online game is not redeemable for cash or credit so the virtual currency cannot be considered gambling proceeds. The method further includes an operation for crediting the player with an amount of virtual currency based on the amount of the received cash or credit.

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Menlo Park, CA, United States of America

Stephen Henry Schoettler