Legal Definitions - game

In a legal context, the term "game" can refer to several distinct concepts, primarily as a noun describing either wild animals or a type of contest, and as a verb meaning to gamble.

Game (Noun - Wild Animals)

Legally, "game" refers to wild animals and birds that are hunted for food, sport, or other purposes, and for which hunting typically requires a specific license or permit from a governing authority. These animals are subject to wildlife management laws and regulations.

• Example 1: A state's Department of Fish and Wildlife issues hunting tags for elk, designating them as "game" animals. This means hunters must obtain the proper license and adhere to specific seasons and bag limits to legally pursue them.
• Example 2: During a discussion about conservation, a local council debated the impact of development on local populations of wild turkeys, which are considered "game" birds and are managed through regulated hunting seasons.
• Example 3: A landowner discovered someone hunting deer on their property without permission. Since deer are classified as "game," the hunter not only trespassed but also potentially violated state hunting laws if they lacked a valid license or were hunting out of season.

Game (Noun - Contest)

In another sense, "game" refers to a structured contest or activity undertaken for amusement, recreation, or to win a prize, where the outcome depends on the players' skill, strength, or luck.

• Example 1: A group of friends gathered for a weekly poker night, playing a "game" for small stakes and bragging rights. This illustrates a contest with elements of both skill and luck.
• Example 2: Children in a park were engaged in a "game" of tag, purely for amusement and physical activity, without any formal prize.
• Example 3: A company hosted a trivia "game" during its annual picnic, offering gift cards as prizes to the winning team, demonstrating a contest where knowledge (skill) determines the outcome.

Game of Chance

A "game of chance" is a contest where the outcome is predominantly determined by random events or luck, rather than by the skill, knowledge, or effort of the players. While some minimal skill might be involved, it is not the deciding factor.

• Example 1: A person playing a slot machine at a casino is participating in a "game of chance," as the result of each spin is determined by a random number generator, entirely independent of the player's actions.
• Example 2: A charity raffle where participants buy tickets hoping their number will be drawn is a "game of chance." The winner is selected randomly, and no skill on the part of the ticket holder influences the outcome.
• Example 3: Rolling dice in a board game to determine movement is an element of a "game of chance," as the numbers rolled are random and cannot be controlled by the player.

Game of Skill

A "game of skill" is a contest where the outcome is primarily determined by a player's superior knowledge, strategy, physical ability, or mental prowess, rather than by random chance. While an element of luck might sometimes be present, it is not the dominant factor.

• Example 1: A professional chess match is a clear "game of skill." Victory depends entirely on the players' strategic thinking, tactical planning, and ability to anticipate their opponent's moves.
• Example 2: A competitive video game tournament, such as one for a real-time strategy game, is a "game of skill." Success requires quick reflexes, strategic decision-making, resource management, and precise execution.
• Example 3: A billiards competition is considered a "game of skill." Players must demonstrate precision, knowledge of angles, and control over the cue ball to pocket balls and outmaneuver their opponent.

Percentage Game

A "percentage game" is a type of game of chance, often found in casinos or gambling establishments, where the house (the operator) collects a predetermined amount or a percentage of the wagers made or the sums won. This mechanism ensures the house maintains a statistical advantage over time, regardless of individual player wins or losses. Such games are illegal in many jurisdictions.

• Example 1: An online poker platform operates a "percentage game" by taking a small "rake" (a percentage) from each pot played at its tables. This ensures the platform profits regardless of which players win or lose.
• Example 2: A casino's roulette table is a "percentage game." The presence of the "0" and "00" slots on the wheel, which are not covered by standard bets, gives the house a built-in statistical advantage, ensuring a percentage return over many spins.
• Example 3: An illegal underground card game where the organizer takes a fixed percentage of every pot as a "house cut" is operating a "percentage game," which is often a key indicator of illegal gambling operations.

Game (Verb)

As a verb, "game" means to gamble or to play for a stake, typically involving money or valuables, with the hope of winning. It implies engaging in activities where the outcome is uncertain and involves risk.

• Example 1: The individual was arrested for "gaming" at an unlicensed establishment, where they were found playing cards for cash stakes.
• Example 2: He admitted to "gaming" away a significant portion of his savings on online sports betting, highlighting the act of gambling.
• Example 3: Local ordinances often prohibit "gaming" in public parks, meaning people are not allowed to engage in gambling activities there, even for small amounts.