Protecting Multiplayer Concepts?

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Amon

I've noticed the Multiplayer concepts such as Capture the Flag are used by nearly all Multiplayer FPS's. What I want to know is if I came up with a new concept could another game use it?

I have an idea that I've not seen or played before and I want to be the only one who uses it. Is this possible?

The answer is probably no, it's just that I thought ideas could be patented and protected.

Any opinions or info would be appreciated. :)