Computer-based system and method for playing a poker-like game

Abstract

A computer-based system and method allow at least one player to play a poker-like game using a computer. A processor processes inputs through a graphic user interface (GUI). A display displays the GUI, including: a five column by five row display matrix, in which each column and row combination includes a matrix display region defining a block of the display matrix; five selectable display regions, each selectable display region corresponding to each column of the display matrix; and a plurality of user-actuatable icons, including an actuation icon. A selectable symbol generator responds to the user inputs by randomly generating selectable symbols corresponding to poker playing cards for display. The processor causes a selected symbol to be displayed in a selected matrix display region of the display matrix, and determines whether the display matrix displays a combination of symbols corresponding to a poker hand condition. The processor generates a score for each user. The poker-playing device may be adapted for playing a poker-style game among a plurality of users, with respective scores determined and displayed, and for providing a chat room feature for interactive text transactions between players before, during, and after play.