Background of the Invention Prior art games often involve a sporting theme such as Fussball, Table Soccer and the like. These games generally require a certain degree of skill, coordination and dexterity to play, and as such, such games may not appeal to certain groups of people who lack these basic game playing abilities.

Game players often also have a loyalty and/or an affiliation with a particular sport, sporting star or sporting team, and may purchase a particular game in the hope of developing a further connection with his or her particular interest. From a manufacturer's point of view, the choice of sporting theme which is applied to the board game may have a significant bearing upon the commercial success of the game. For instance, if the game manufacturer decides to include a certain sporting theme with a board game in the hope of attracting fans of the chosen sporting theme to purchase the game, there is a risk taken by the manufacturer that interest and demand in that theme will remain strong and therefore be profitable by the time the game has entered the market.

Prior art games such as Table Soccer and the like generally include a game board and game pieces. Typically, game boards and game pieces are stored in cardboard boxes which are susceptible to general wear-and-tear over a period of time during either storage and/or during transportation. When a box develops such damage, it is common for the game pieces to be inadvertently ejected from a damaged section of the box and misplaced, thereby ruining the player (s) ability to enjoy the game. Moreover, these boxes are bulky and cumbersome to transport from place to place and are susceptible to being damaged.

Children like to take board games with them to school to play with their friends. However

due to the bulky nature of some board games, it is impractical for children to fit the board game inside a school bag to take to school.

Summary of the Invention The present invention seeks to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned problems inherent in the prior art.

In a first broad form, the present invention provides an apparatus for a player (s) to play a game including: - a playing surface including a scoring zone; and - a first game element disposed on the playing surface during a play of the game ; and - a second game element ; and - a controller for controlling movement of the second game element upon the playing surface, wherein, the second game element is rotatably movable around an axis of the second game element, and, movable laterally across the playing surface whereby it may strike the first game element thereby causing the first game element to be displaced into the scoring zone.

Preferably, the present invention includes a means of determining a winner of the game based on a winning criteria. Preferably, the winning criteria includes a consideration of the number of times in which the first game element is caused to be displaced in to the scoring zone.

Preferably, the controller includes an ejection means for ejecting the second game element on to and/or across the playing surface at the start of play. More preferably, the ejection means includes a rotor. Also preferably, spinning motion of the rotor may be either mechanically driven (for instance by using a spring biasing mechanism), or, electrically driven (for instance, by using an electric motor). It would be understood however that any other number of suitable driving means may be adopted to generate rotational motion of the rotor.

Preferably, the present invention also includes a means of releasably attaching the second game element to the rotor whereby when the rotor reaches a predetermined speed of rotation, the attachment between the rotor and the second game element is broken, and the second game element is caused to be ejected from the rotor. For instance, the releasable attachment may be effected by including a prong projecting from the rotor and, a corresponding slot disposed on the second game element which is adapted to releasably receive the prong during attachment. The prong is held within the slot by frictional forces acting between the slot and the prong, and, when the rotor has achieved a predetermined speed of rotation, the centrifugal force acting upon the second game element exceeds the frictional force holding the prong within the slot thereby allowing the second game element to detach from the prong.

Typically, a pair of prongs are disposed on the rotor and they project downwardly from the controller. Also typically, a pair of receiving slots are disposed on a top surface of the second game element for receiving the corresponding prongs.

Typically, when ejected, the momentum of the second game element may cause it to move in rotational fashion upon the playing surface. It should also be understood by the person skilled in the art that in alternative embodiments of the present invention, the controller may not include an ejection means, and the second game element may simple be placed on to the playing surface by hand.

Preferably the controller may be adapted to remotely control movement of the second game element upon the playing surface via a wireless communication system. Also preferably the wireless communication system may include : - a transmitter disposed on the controller ; and - a receiver disposed on the second game element.

The transmitter communicates signals to the receiver in order to control the movement of the second game element. The controller may typically include an input means such as a joystick for the user to control movement of the second game element. The joystick is

moved by a player to indicate the desired movement of the corresponding second game element. Joystick movements are encoded into an electrical signal and transmitted to the receiver via the wireless communication link, whereby a processor in the second game element decodes the received signal and actuates the electric motor within the second game element so as to facilitate the desired movement of the top by the player.

Typically the second game element includes a spinning-top. Also preferably the spinning top includes an arm which projects laterally outward from the circumference of the spinning top. Also typically, the arm includes a foot or boot-shaped end. Typically a plurality of arms project outwardly from the periphery of the spinning top which may assist in evenly balancing the weight distribution across the spinning top. Advantageously, when the spinning top comes into proximity of the plastic ball, the rotating arms of the spinning tops.

Preferably, the second game element includes a means of generating rotational motion of the second game element around a central axis of the second game element. Typically, this may include an electric motor disposed within the second game element. Thus for instance, clockwise and anti-clockwise spinning motion of the top may be controlled by a causing a current passing through the electric motor to be selectively inverted. Typically the electric motor may also be used to facilitate lateral movement of the second game element across the playing surface.

Preferably the present invention includes a means of releasably attaching an ornament to the controller. Preferably, the ornament includes a figurine. More preferably the figurine includes a representation of a sporting theme such as, but not limited to, a representation of a sporting identity. Alternatively, the ornament includes a theme with which the player has a loyalty, interest or affiliation such as a fictional character, an animal or the like.

Advantageously, the detachability of the ornament from the controller may allow a player to retain a greater interest in the game as the game is customisable to the player (s) interest.

Additional advantages may arise in that the ability to releasably attach the ornament to the controller allows the player to interchange ornaments whenever it is desirable such that it caters for the changing interests of the player. This may be particularly advantageous

where a player has evolving or fickle tastes. This may also be advantageous for manufacturers/retailers of these types of games in that, when interest in a particular sporting theme wanes, retailers may be able to sell a new replacement figurines/ornaments and the like to be removably attached to the controllers, second game elements and so on without the game becoming prematurely redundant and without the players having to purchase an entirely new game set. In this manner, retailers/manufacturers of game products may have the added advantage flexibility and adaptability in exploiting the latest trends and interests in the market when promoting a game product.

Alternatively, the present invention may include a means of attaching an ornament to the second game element in a substantially similar fashion as described above when the ornament is attached to the controller.

Preferably, the controller may also include an ergonomic handle to enhance the comfort and control of a player when playing the game. Also preferably, the controller may include a trigger means to actuate the ejection of the second game element from the controller.

Preferably, the means of attaching an ornament to the controller may include a clip, an adhesive layer, a resiliently snap-fitting plug-and-socket arrangement or any other suitable engagement means.

Preferably, the present invention includes a boundary disposed around the periphery of the playing surface. More preferably, the boundary may include a net. Also preferably, the net may be detachable from the playing surface to make it compactable for storage when not in use. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the hollow cavity of the base may further be used to store a radio, wherein the radio may be placed via a set of inbuilt- speakers.

Preferably, the scoring zone may include a recess, a netted enclosure, a slot, or any delineated region of the playing surface. Preferably, the present invention includes a pair of scoring zones disposed at opposing ends of the playing surface.

Also preferably, the present invention includes a scoring indicator for indicating when the

first game element has been displaced into the scoring zone. Preferably, the scoring indicator may include a sound generating means for playing a pre-recorded audio sample.

Preferably, the audio sample may further be customisable by a player.

Preferably, the present invention includes a sensor for detecting when the game element has been displaced in to the scoring zone, wherein the sensor may be connected to the indicator means via an electric circuit. The sensor may for instance include a photosensitive detector. The sensor may be adapted to trigger the indicator means when the game element is displaced into the scoring zone.

Preferably, the playing surface may be mounted on a support base. Typically the base may include a rigid plastic material. Typically the base includes a first and second base portion which may be hingedly coupled together. Also preferably, the base may include a hollow recess which may provide a convenient storage compartment for storing the first and second game elements as well as the controller, the detachable boundary, and the like when not in use.

Preferably, the present invention may be selectively compacted for storage and/or transport when not in use, and, expanded when playing the game. Preferably, when the present invention is arranged in the relatively compact arrangement, the playing surface and the corresponding first and second base portions are folded inwardly together around the hinge. Typically, when compacted, the first and second base portions cooperatively form a protective casing around the playing surface. As the base may be hollow, the present invention serves the advantage of having dual functionality-firstly as a portable board game, and secondly, as a suitcase or schoolbag for carrying objects.

Preferably the present invention includes a handle disposed on a surface of the base.

Typically a handle may be disposed on each of the first and second base portions whereby, when the base portions are folded inwardly together to form the protective casing, the recesses are positioned substantially adjacent one another so as to cooperatively form a carry handle for a player to conveniently carry the compacted game.

Preferably, the present invention includes a securing means for releasably securing the

apparatus in the relatively compact arrangement. Typically, the securing means includes a latch.

Preferably, the second game element and/or the first game element may also include light emitting means such as light emitting diode or the like. The light emitting means may be powered by a battery and may also be adapted for automatic activation in response to contact between the second game element and the first game element.

In a second broad form, the present invention provides a method of playing a game including the steps of: (i) controlling movement of a second game element on a playing surface having a scoring zone wherein, the second game element being adapted to strike a first game element located on the playing surface thereby causing the first game element to be displaced in to the scoring zone; and (ii) thereafter, a winner of the game is determined based on a winning criteria.

Preferably, the winning criteria may include a consideration of at least any one of the following: - a first player to cause the first game element to be displaced in to the scoring zone ; - a number of times in which the first game element is caused to be displaced into the scoring zone.

In a third broad form, the present invention provides a controller in accordance with the first broad form of the present invention.

In a third broad form, the present invention provides a suitcase as described above in accordance with the first broad form.

Brief Description of the Drawings The present invention will become more fully understood from the following detailed description of a preferred but non-limiting embodiment thereof, described in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein: - Figure 1 depicts a top view of a first embodiment of the present invention including a spinning top and ball disposed on the playing surface.

- Figure 2 depicts a side view of the first embodiment of the present invention wherein the spinning tops are releasably attached to their respective game controllers.

- Figure 3 depicts a cross-sectional side view of a game controller in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention wherein the controller is shown without a spinning top being attached, and, with rotor attachment arms extending downwardly from the controller.

- Figure 4 depicts the first embodiment of the present invention wherein it is arranged in a relatively compacted formation for portability and/or storage.

Modes for Carrying out the Invention A first embodiment (1) of the present invention is shown in Figs. 1 and 2 of the drawings including a playing surface (2), a pair of scoring zones (3) disposed at opposite ends of the playing surface (2), scoring indicators (4) disposed on each of the scoring zones (3), a net (14) which surrounds a perimeter of the playing surface (2), a plastic ball (9), game controllers (5) for ejecting spinning tops (6) on to the playing surface (2) and thereafter being adapted to selectively control the lateral movement of the spinning tops (6) across the playing surface (2) via a wireless communication system.

The playing surface (2) is mounted on top of a base which includes first and second base

portions (11) which are pivotally connected together via a hinge (12). The base is moulded from a rigid plastic material and includes a hollow cavity which serves as a storage compartment for, amongst other things, the spinning tops (6), the plastic ball (9), the detachable net (14), and the game controllers (5) when not in use.

The plastic ball (9) should be of a relatively lighter weight than each of the substantially identical spinning tops (6) such that when the spinning tops (6) strike the plastic ball (9), the impact causes the ball (9) to be displaced about the playing surface (2) in fairly energetic fashion.

The game controllers (5) include releasably attachable figurines (5E) disposed on an upper surfaces of the controllers (5). The figurines (5E) represent popular sporting identities. For instance and by way of example, the first figurine represents the football player David Beckham and indicia symbolic of the football club Real Madrid, and, the second figurine represents the football player Thierry Henry and indicia symbolic of the football club Arsenal. The figurines (5E) may be detachable from the controllers (5) and replaced with other figurines representing alternate football identities as desired by the player (s).

The figurines (5E) are moulded from plastic and include slots at their bases which allow for resiliently snap-fitting engagement with corresponding prongs projecting from the upper surfaces of each controller (5). The figurines (5E) may therefore be easily interchanged with other figurines, ornaments and the like in accordance with the player's changing interests. Thus, a further possible revenue stream is available to retailers and/or manufacturers in providing new replacement figurines for sale. In alternative embodiments of the present invention that figurines depicting other sporting themes may be included such as rugby, ice hockey or the like.

The net (14) which surrounds the periphery of the playing surface (2) includes a plurality of modular net sections. More specifically, the modular net sections include netting of rectangular-shaped cross-section which are held between pairs of plastic rods. The modular net sections are held in an erect position around the playing surface (2) periphery by elongated portions of the plastic rods which are inserted into corresponding receiving

apertures disposed along the periphery of the playing surface (2). The modular net sections are detachable by simply lifting the plastic rods from the apertures.

The scoring zones (3) include netted enclosures (3) resembling soccer goals and these are also erected and detached in a similar fashion as described in relation to the modular net sections.

The scoring indicators (4) are positioned on top surfaces of the netted enclosures (3) and in this embodiment they include Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) powered by a 3 volt battery source which is stowed in the hollow cavity of the base. Sensors (10) are also disposed within the netted enclosures (3) and are adapted to detect when the plastic ball (9) is displaced into the netted enclosures (3). The sensors (10) include photosensitive detectors which are connected to the respective LED's via and the battery to form an electric circuit.

When the plastic ball (9) is proximate to one of the sensors (10), the sensor (10) triggers the flashing of its respective LED (4).

The first embodiment includes a pair of controllers (5) having ergonomic handles (SA) for a user to comfortably hold the controller (5) during play of the game. The controllers (5) also include rotors (SB) which are adapted to hold the spinning tops (6) before play of the game begins and then, later cause the spinning tops (6) to be ejected on to the playing surface (2) at the start of play. The rotational motion of the rotors (5B) are driven by compact electric motors. The rotors (5B) include attachment arms (5C) which extend downwardly from the controllers (5) and which are adapted to releasably engage with corresponding receiving slots (6A) which are disposed on upper surfaces of each spinning top (6). The attachment arms (5C) are held within the corresponding slots (6A) by frictional forces acting between the receiving slots (6A) and the attachment arms (5C), and, when the rotors (5B) have achieved a predetermined speed of rotation, the centrifugal force acting upon the spinning tops (6) exceeds the frictional force holding the arms (5C) within the slots (6A) thereby allowing the spinning tops to detach from the arms (5C).

When the spinning tops (6) are ejected on to the playing surface (2) they spin upon the playing surface (2). Thereafter, self-generating rotational motion of the spinning tops (6)

is triggered by the impact of the spinning tops (6) with the playing surface (2). The spinning tops (6) include in-built motors which allow the spinning tops (6) to rotate around a central axis of each of the spinning top (6). Lateral movement is also possible via use of the electric motors. Movement of the spinning tops (6) is controllable via the wireless communication link between the controllers (5) and the respective spinning tops (6). The controllers (5) include in-built transmitters for transmitting signals to the receivers disposed in the spinning tops (6) wherein the signals represent instructional information about how the spinning tops (6) should move. The wireless communication system operates within a bandwidth of around 27-49 MHz.

A joystick (5D) is disposed on each controller (5) for a player to dictate movement of respective spinning tops (6). Directional commands input by a player via the joystick (5D) are encoded as electrical signals and communicated via the wireless communication link to processors disposed in the spinning tops (6). The processors decode the received electrical signals and then actuate electric motors disposed within the spinning tops (6) to drive movement of the spinning tops (6) across the playing surface (2).

When a spinning top (6) comes in to contact with the plastic ball (9), a series of arms (6B) spaced around the circumference of the spinning tops (6) strikes the plastic ball (9) thus causing the plastic ball (9) to be flicked or swatted across the playing surface until the plastic ball (9) is eventually displaced in to a netted-enclosure (3).

In this first embodiment, a winner of the game is determined in accordance with a winning criteria which includes a measure of the number of times a player is able to displace the plastic ball (9) into his designated netted enclosure (3) within a predetermined time of 5 minutes.

The first embodiment also is able to be arranged between at least a first relatively compact arrangement when not in use, and, a second relatively expanded arrangement when the game is being played. In order to arrange the base into the first relatively compacted position, the first and second base portions (11) are folded together around the hinge (12) whereby the playing surface (2) becomes concealed between the first and second base

portions (11). The first and second base portions (11) also include handles (11A) which are formed integrally with, and extend outwardly from, the first and second base portions (11). The handles (11A) are positioned beneath respective netted enclosures (3) as shown in Fig. 3. When the first embodiment is compacted, the handle recesses (11A) cooperatively form an ergonomic handle for a player to carry the compacted game about as shown in Figure 4. In alternative embodiments, a latch is used to releasably secure the handle recesses (11A) together when the embodiment is in the compacted arrangement.

Thus, the compacted arrangement of the first embodiment is also adapted to function as a suitcase, schoolbag or the like and includes a pair of openings in to the hollow recesses of the base portion (11) compartments.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described without departing from the scope of the invention. All such variations and modification which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as broadly hereinbefore described. It is to be understood that the invention includes all such variations and modifications. The invention also includes all of the steps and features, referred or indicated in the specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any two or more of said steps or features.