Pilot Games wins second U.S. patent for electronic pull-tab animation tech

Pilot Gaming Systems has received a second U.S. patent for its electronic pull-tab platform, adding new protection for animated roll-up presentations and watermark-based prize disclosure features. The patent could help charitable gaming operators deploy consistent game experiences across different state regulations.

Why it matters: - The new patent expands Pilot Games’ intellectual property around electronic pull-tab games. - The technology is designed to support regulated charitable gaming across multiple jurisdictions with different presentation and prize-disclosure rules. - The patent may help charitable gaming organizations roll out game concepts across markets without redesigning core experiences for each state.

What happened: - Pilot Gaming Systems announced that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued U.S. Patent No. 12,705,949 B2. - The patent is titled “Standard Animated Roll-Up for Electronic Pull-Tab Gaming.” - The company said the patent covers animated roll-up technology for electronic pull-tab gaming. - Pilot Games said the invention is intended for charitable gaming organizations in the U.S. and lottery markets internationally.

The details: - The patent describes roll-up presentations based on player selections made before play. - The patent also covers extended roll-up sequences that include simulated prize presentations. - The technology uses watermarked symbols that can encode prize-related information without making that information readily identifiable to the player. - Pilot Games developed the watermark technology to add variety to how outcomes and prizes are displayed in electronic pull-tab games. - The technology is meant to provide a standardized framework that can be configured for different regulatory requirements. - The company said the framework is intended to preserve a consistent and engaging player experience. - The company said the flexibility can support deployment of proven game concepts across multiple markets.

Between the lines: - The patent points to a strategy of building reusable game mechanics that can be adapted for varying state-by-state rules. - The broader goal appears to be protecting core platform features while making the product easier for operators to market in regulated settings. - Jon Weaver, founder and CEO, said the company has focused on original technologies since 2014 and wants to help charitable partners maximize fundraising opportunities. - Weaver also said protecting intellectual property allows Pilot Games to keep investing in new technologies and game experiences.

What's next: - Pilot Games said it intends to keep developing new technologies for charitable gaming. - The company said it wants to remain at the forefront of innovation in the sector. - The new patent adds to a portfolio that already included U.S. Patent No. 12,367,737, awarded in July 2025 for watermark technology in electronic pull-tab games. - Pilot Games said the two patents represent consecutive years of new U.S. patent protection for its electronic pull-tab platform. - More information is available on Pilot Games on LinkedIn and Pilot Games on Facebook.

The bottom line: - Pilot Games is deepening its patent moat around electronic pull-tab design, with a focus on configurable presentation tools for regulated charitable gaming.