You can freely build on How the Game Twister Works

What this patent covers

The patent describes a game mat featuring a grid of colored circles arranged in rows and columns. A spinner determines which body part—left hand, right hand, left foot, or right foot—a player must place on a specific color. The players themselves act as the game pieces, maneuvering their bodies to occupy the designated spots without falling or touching the mat with other parts of their bodies.

What is now free to use

All 0 claims of US 3454279 are in the public domain. Specifically:

The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Does not cover games played on a board with physical figurines or tokens.

• Does not cover digital or video game versions of the concept.

• Does not cover the specific color arrangement or the exact number of circles on the mat.

Who is building on this today

Hasbro, which acquired Milton Bradley, continues to manufacture and market the game globally. The core mechanic has inspired various physical party games and fitness-based interactive activities.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

Milton Bradley Co. US Patent 3454279. Apparatus for playing a game wherein the players constitute the game pieces. Granted 1969, expired 1986. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.