Patent Grant
12062266
The present disclosure relates to improvements to claw gaming machines, claw games and methods for same, and specifically to claw gaming machines configured for operation in a casino.
Claw games, sometimes referred to as crane games, are popular and are often found in children's arcades. In a typical configuration, the player would use their skill to try and arrange the claw to pick up a prize, and if they were successful, they would be awarded the prize that the claw picked up. In such a sense, traditional claw games are not very secure, as they are “open” games in that there is an open path from within the claw game to the outside so that the physical prize can be moved from inside the game to the player in a winning scenario. This openness provides a pathway for the game to be compromised and allow for cheating. While there have been several attempts by various regulatory bodies to regulate these claw games, the industry has apparently largely avoided such regulation by arguing that these games are games of skill, and that the likelihood of winning a prize is mostly dependent on the player's skill rather than a random determination.
There have been some indications that traditional claw games could be adjusted to make it harder or easier to win a prize, and that such adjustments could roughly be aligned with an operator's desired profit margin. However, it appears that these alleged game configuration options are very unsophisticated and unreliable, and therefore are not able to provide consistent long-term and verifiable expected returns.
A game operating in a regulated casino environment must satisfy very strict regulations around their payback percentage, often referred to as a return-to-player (“RTP”), and must be able to verify that the game operates in accordance with its indicated RTP. For example, if a game is approved based on an RTP of 90%, that would mean that over hundreds of thousands of plays, the game would be expected to payout about 90% of all received wagers to players, and keep the remaining roughly 10% for the casino operator. In most jurisdictions, a casino operator is not allowed to change the RTP of a game without first getting regulatory approval, hence once a game is placed on the casino floor with an authorized RTP, that game must remain at that RTP.
The present disclosure provides claw gaming machines, claw games and methods configured to operate in a regulated casino environment.
In one embodiment, the claw gaming machine comprises a random number generator that is used to determine whether a play of the claw gaming machine will be a losing play or a winning play.
In another embodiment, the claw gaming machine comprises multiple prize objects that the player can attempt to pick up with the claw, but the prize objects are not awarded to the player.
In still another embodiment, the claw gaming machine comprises weight sensors in the field to assist in verifying that a prize object was successfully picked up by the claw.
In a further embodiment, the claw gaming machine comprises a large video display that helps inform the player of their game outcome.
In an additional embodiment, the casino claw gaming machine is a closed system, thereby diminishing the ability to compromise the game.
In another embodiment, the claw gaming machine comprises a claw assembly with a stepper motor to provide more precision in the claw's operation.
In a further embodiment, the claw gaming machine comprises a shooter unit, which may be configured to verify that a prize object was successfully placed on it, and to then return the prize object to the play field.
In one embodiment, a casino claw gaming machine comprises a cabinet, a play field within the cabinet supporting a plurality of prize objects, a claw assembly moveably attached within the cabinet, a player input device positioned outside the cabinet, a video display attached to the cabinet, a currency acceptor attached to the cabinet, at least one processor and at least one memory device storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: after receiving physical indicia of monetary value via the currency acceptor, validate the receiving of the physical indicia of monetary value; receive an electronic communication to begin a claw game; determine a game outcome for the claw game based on a computerized random number generator; allow the input device to control the claw assembly, thereby allowing a player of the claw game to position the claw assembly; and determine whether the player caused the claw assembly to pick up one of the plurality of prize objects. The instructions, when executed by the processor, further cause the processor to: when the determination of whether the player caused the claw assembly to pick-up one of the plurality of prize objects is the player did not cause the claw assembly to pick up one of the plurality of prize objects and when the determined game outcome is a losing outcome, end the claw game; when the determination of whether the player caused the claw assembly to pick-up one of the plurality of prize objects is the player did cause the claw assembly to pick up one of the plurality of prize objects and when the determined game outcome is a losing outcome, cause the claw assembly to move in a predetermined release pattern and drop the picked-up prize object away from the shooter unit; when the determination of whether the player caused the claw assembly to pick-up one of the plurality of prize objects is the player did cause the claw assembly to pick up one of the plurality of prize objects and when the determined game outcome is a winning outcome, instruct the claw assembly to drop the picked-up prize object on the shooter unit; and when the determination of whether the player caused the claw assembly to pick-up one of the plurality of prize objects is the player did not cause the claw assembly to pick up one of the plurality of prize objects and when the determined game outcome is a winning outcome, cause the video display to display a winning game presentation. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may further cause the processor to cause the video display to display messaging about the determined game outcome and cause any awards from the claw game to be provided to the player.
In another embodiment, a casino claw gaming machine comprises a cabinet, a play field within the cabinet supporting a plurality of prize objects, a claw assembly moveably attached within the cabinet, a player input device positioned outside the cabinet, a video display attached to the cabinet, a currency acceptor attached to the cabinet, at least one processor and at least one memory device storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: (a) after receiving physical indicia of monetary value via the currency acceptor, validate the receiving of the physical indicia of monetary value, (b) receive an electronic communication to begin a claw game, (c) determine a game outcome for the claw game based on a computerized random number generator, and (d) cause the claw assembly to move based on input received by the player input device. The instructions, when executed by processor, further cause the processor to: (e) determine whether the claw assembly picked up one of the plurality of prize objects, (f) when the determination of whether the claw assembly picked up one of the plurality of prize objects is the claw assembly picked up one of the plurality of prize objects, determine whether the picked up prize object matches a component of the determined game outcome, (g) when the determination of whether the picked up prize object matches a component of the determined game outcome is the picked up prize object matches a component of the determined game outcome, instruct the claw assembly to drop the picked-up prize object on the shooter unit, (h) when the determination of whether the picked up prize object matches a component of the determined game outcome is the picked up prize object does not to match a component of the determined game outcome, instruct the claw assembly to drop the picked-up prize object on the play field, (i) when the picked-up prize object is dropped on the shooter unit, cause the shooter unit to verify the prize object dropped on the shooter unit and return the prize object dropped on the shooter unit to the play field, and allow steps (d) through (i) to be repeated until a prescribed condition occurs. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may further cause the processor to cause the display device to display messaging about the determined game outcome and cause any awards from the claw game to be provided to the player.
Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples provided in the drawings.
Referring to
Casino claw gaming machine 10 includes a cabinet 12 which typically houses sensitive components of the casino claw game 10. Cabinet 12 can be made from wood, metal, or any other structurally secure material. In the present disclosure, cabinet 12 comprises at least one window 14. Window 14 can be glass, clear acrylic, or any other transparent material that protects the integrity of cabinet 12 and prevents a player from accessing internal elements of the casino claw game 10.
Casino claw gaming machine 10 has one or more display devices 30, which are utilized to display aspects of a game, or may be used to convey information to players of the game. The display device can be a video display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) panel display, a plasma display, an electroluminescent (EL) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, a surface-conduction electron-emitter display (SED), a digital light projection (DLP) display, a polymer light-emitting diodes (PLED) display, an LCD projection display, any combination thereof, or any other display capable of displaying video. It is further contemplated that display device 30 can be a traditional 2-D display, or a 3D display.
It is contemplated that casino claw gaming machine 10 has one or more input devices 45. Input device 45 could be utilized by a player to select components of their game, such as the amount of their wager or how to allocate their wager within the game, and allow them to initiate the play of the game, for example by selecting a “Play” button or other play initiating button. It is contemplated that input device 45 can be physical buttons or virtual buttons, such as a touchscreen input, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, input device 45 includes a joystick which can be used to control the direction, speed, action, or other aspects of the claw assembly 20. In another embodiment, such a joystick might comprise sensors to allow a player to control the X and Y directions of the claw assembly 20, and also comprise a button to allow the player to initiate the claw to drop and attempt to pick up a prize object 15.
Casino claw gaming machine 10 may also include speakers (not shown). It is contemplated that speakers can work independently of each other, work in coordination with each other, work in coordination with other speakers, for example speakers located in a player seat associated with casino claw gaming machine 10, work as part of a surround sound system, or any combination thereof.
Casino claw gaming machine 10 also includes a currency acceptor 55. In one embodiment, currency acceptor 55 is a bill acceptor which accepts paper money. In another embodiment, currency acceptor is a coin acceptor which accepts coins. In still another embodiment, casino claw gaming machine 10 includes more than one currency acceptor 55. In another embodiment, currency acceptor 55 can accept multiple denominations of currency, or even currencies from multiple countries. In still another embodiment, currency acceptor 55 can accept a ticket or similar physical indicium that is distributed by a casino or another gaming machine, which indicates an amount of currency available for use on casino claw gaming machine 10. In a further embodiment, currency acceptor 55 can accept credit cards, debit cards, or other instruments to initiate an electronic funds transfer. It is also contemplated that instead of a currency acceptor 55, the casino claw gaming machine 10 provides another means to allow a player to access money in order to wager on a play of the game. For example, the player may enter a PIN in order to access an account they have, either with a bank or the casino itself, and upon entering the PIN and other information, certain amount of funds are transferred to the casino claw gaming machine 10 or otherwise allowed to be wagered via casino claw gaming machine 10. In another embodiment, currency acceptor 55 is configured to interact with a radio frequency identification (RFID), a Bluetooth, a near-field communication (NFC), a WiFi, and/or other short-range or medium-range communication device which can transmit financial information short and/or medium distances, for example a bracelet, smart watch, smartphone, or other similar devices.
The casino claw gaming machine 10 of
It is contemplated that a single device could be configured to perform the functions of currency acceptor 55 and ticket printer 60, thereby consolidating those two functions into one device.
Casino claw gaming machine 10 may also include a player tracking device 63. It is contemplated that casino claw gaming machine 10 could include a visibly distinct player tracking device 63, or a visually integrated player tracking device that utilizes a portion of a player input deck, generally shown with input devices 45. In practice, a player makes their identity known to the player tracking device 63, either actively by inserting a player tracking card and/or entering a PIN into player tracking device 63, or passively by utilizing a location device, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) or a Bluetooth device which can transmit information short distances. Thereafter, the player tracking device 63 communicates over a network with a casino tracking system to track a player's play, and potentially offer awards or other services to the player, often through the same player tracking device 63. The player tracking device 63 can also display player status information back to the player, or other information based on or otherwise related to a player's play history and/or status, including awards earned by a player. It is also contemplated that the networked player tracking device 63 can be utilized to offer other services to players, such as the ordering of drinks, or making promotional offers to a player, perhaps working in coordination with ticket printer 60 to do so.
Memory device(s) 82 can include one or more distinct types of memory devices, such as random access memory (RAM) or dynamic RAM (DRAM), which can include non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM) and other forms as commonly understood in the computing industry. In one embodiment, the memory device(s) 82 includes read only memory (ROM), which may, for example, store regulatory-sensitive instructions for casino claw gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, the memory device(s) 82 includes flash memory and/or EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory). Any other suitable magnetic, optical and/or semiconductor memory may operate in conjunction with the casino claw gaming machine 10 disclosed herein.
In some embodiments, memory device(s) 82 store program code that is executable by CPU 80. Memory device(s) 82 may also store operating data, such as a random number generator (RNG), game instructions, event data, display files, game history, and other such data and instructions that allow for the gaming machine 10 to properly function in a regulated environment.
CPU 80 is communicatively connected to an input/output device such as input/output printed circuit board (I/O PCB) 84 which operates as an electrical interface between CPU 80 and various peripherals of the casino claw gaming machine 10.
In various embodiments, game control CPU 80 communicates with field control CPU 88. Field control CPU 88 may utilize internal memory, rely on memory devices external to the field control CPU 88, or a combination thereof. Field control CPU 88 further communicates with the claw assembly 20, the shooter unit 25, and the play field 65. The purposes and manner of such communication are further discussed below.
Also communicatively connected to CPU 80 is a player tracking device 63. It is contemplated that the player tracking device 63 includes a distinct player tracking input/output (I/O) 92 and player tracking CPU 94, as well as associated player tracking memory (not shown). In one embodiment, it is contemplated that player tracking device 63 could have a direct line of communication with ticket printer 60. In such an embodiment, the player tracking device 63 could then cause ticket printer 60 to print out promotional tickets without having to first communicate with gaming machine CPU 80, which may be desirable from a regulatory perspective.
Play field 65, in one embodiment, includes a play field bumper 330. In this embodiment, play field bumper 330 is configured to prevent prize objects 15 from resting against the side of claw gaming machine cabinet, which may produce inaccurate field weight results and/or cause difficulties for the claw assembly 20 to pick up a prize object 15. In another embodiment, play field 65 is depressed from the play field bumper 330, which assists in retaining the prize objects 15 away from the sides of the casino claw gaming machine 10. In this embodiment, play field bumper 330 may simple be the edge of such a depression. In still a further embodiment, play field bumper 330 is a raised edge from the play field 65.
The present embodiment further includes one or more weight sensors 310, which are shown in hidden line format because they are positioned below play field 65. As will be discussed in more detail below, weight sensors 310 can be used to determine if a prize object 15 was successfully picked up by a claw assembly 20, by determining the weight of the play field 65. It is also contemplated that the claw assembly 20 itself may incorporate one or more weight sensors which can be used to determine if a prize object 15 was successfully picked up by the claw assembly 20.
In such embodiments, the casino claw gaming machine 10 is a “closed” unit meaning the prize objects 15 are not provided to the player, rather they are returned to the play field. It is contemplated that by providing such a closed system, the casino claw gaming machine 10 will provide more security to assist in preventing fraud or cheating, which also assist in allowing such a game to operate in the heavily regulated industry of casino gaming. It is contemplated that in such embodiments, there are no access points for a player to access the interior of the cabinet, which is unlike traditional claw games or claw machines where the prize is dropped into an access point, which has been shown to allow improper access by players or spectators into the play fields of such games.
In one embodiment, shooter flap 510 is actuated based on instruction from the field control CPU 88. In another embodiment, the field control CPU 88 receives information from prize object verifier 505, and then sends instructions to the shooter unit 25 to actuate the shooter flap 510. In a further embodiment, shooter flap 510 is actuated by a stepper motor. In another embodiment, shooter flap is actuated by a magnet. In still a further embodiment, shooter flap is assisted by a mechanical spring. It is contemplated that shooter unit 25 could comprise various mechanisms to return the prize object 15 back to the play field.
In some embodiments, the shooter unit 25 returns the prize object 15 to the play field in a manner which ensures that returned prize objects 15 do not accumulate in a particular area of the play field. For example, the shooter unit 25 may return the prize object 15 to the play field at a height which ensures that the returned prize object 15 can roll over other prize objects 15 in the play field to a resting position within the play field that is essentially random. In other embodiments, the shooter unit 25 may include a moveable guide portion that controls the direction in which the prize object 15 is returned to the play field.
According to some release patterns, the field control CPU 88 may control the claw assembly 20A such that the dropping of the losing prize object 15 may be made to appear accidental to the player. For example, the field control CPU 88 may control the claw assembly 20A such that losing prize object 15 is dropped in response to a change of direction or speed by the claw assembly 20A as it travels to a position above the shooter unit 25. In another example, the field control CPU 88 may control the claw assembly 20A such that it appears that the prize object 15A is too heavy to be held by the claw assembly 20A and is thus dropped as the claw assembly 20A travels to a position above the shooter unit 25. In this manner, the player may be given the impression that the outcome of the casino claw gaming machine 10 is, to some extent, dependent on skill, despite the game outcome being determined in advance.
In this example, the claw assembly 20 has three claw arms 715, which are each linked by a plurality of hinged supports 720 and hinges 725. The stepper motor 710 is connected to plunger 705, which in turn is connected to a plurality of hinges 725 and hinged supports 720. In
In another embodiment, it is contemplated that in addition to or in place of stepper motor 710, a magnetic closure device could be used to provide a stronger arm closing operation. In such an embodiment, use of a magnetic closure device could provide additional operational security around the claw assembly 20. Specifically, the use of an electromagnetic configuration, with two or more magnets that when charged are forced to move in an axial manner, which by way of the magnets being coupled to plunger 705, cause the claw assembly 20 to function in a controlled manner.
Although certain steps, actions or blocks are described herein, the present disclosure is not so limited and one or more steps, actions or blocks described herein may be performed in a different order, one or more steps, actions or blocks may be omitted, and/or one or additional more steps, actions or blocks may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Step 905 includes receiving an indication of monetary currency input by the player from the currency acceptor 55. For example, CPU 80 may be configured to receive an indication of monetary currency being input by the player from currency acceptor 55 (see
Step 907 includes receiving an indication that a wager was placed on a play of the game, which then unlocks the crane and allows the player to control the crane in an effort to position it above a prize object 15 for successful pick up. In one embodiment, the placing of a wager begins a process where the input device 45 is allowed to control the claw assembly 20 for a set amount of time, e.g., 35 seconds.
In step 910, a game outcome is determined. For example, game control CPU 80 may receive a random number or numbers determined by an RNG, and based on that received number or numbers, determine a game outcome. Such a determined game outcome could be simply a “win” outcome or a “lose” outcome. In another example, a “win” outcome could be selected from a plurality of different “win” outcomes. In this manner, it would be similar to traditional casino slot machines, where there are several different levels of winning outcomes. At step 915, it is determined whether the game outcome is a winning outcome.
When the determined outcome is not a winning outcome, the process moves to step 920, where it is then determined whether the claw assembly 20 successfully grabbed a prize object 15. At this step, and at step 935 discussed below, the casino claw gaming machine 10 utilizes information from the weight sensors 310 associated with the play field 65 to determine that a prize object 15 has been removed from the play field 65. In one embodiment, each of the prize objects 15 are substantially the same weight. In another embodiment, the various prize objects 15 have different discernable weights, or grouped into different discernable weight classifications. In this manner, the weight sensors can be used to determine which exact prize object 15, or which class of prize object 15, has been picked up. This added functionality can allow for further game variations based on the actual prize object 15 that was grabbed.
In this embodiment, after step 905 and play of a game has been initiated by a wager having been placed, the casino claw gaming machine 10 allows a player to manipulate the claw assembly 20 as discussed above. In this respect, a player's skill can be utilized to possibly pick up a prize object 15, which provides additional excitement to the player, even though it has already been decided at step 910 that the game is not a winning outcome.
If the claw assembly 20 did not successfully pick up a prize object 15, then the process moves to optional step 922, where the casino claw gaming machine 10 could display a lose game animation on display device 30. In one embodiment, the lose game animation is simply a written or video presentation informing the player that they lost. In another embodiment, the lose game animation is a game feature that purports to offer the player another chance at winning, but will result in a losing outcome.
At step 960, the current play of the game is ended, and the player is allowed to wager on another play of the game.
If at step 920, it is determined that a prize object 15 was successfully picked up the process moves to step 925, where a release pattern is determined. In this embodiment, since the outcome was determined to be a losing outcome, but a prize object 15 was successfully picked up, a release pattern is selected to control how the prize object 15 is released prior to being dropped at the shooter unit 25, which would typically indicate a win for the player. In one example, there are a plurality of release patterns that the game control CPU 80 and/or field control CPU 88 selects from. Such a selection could be random, in order from a listing whereby one release pattern is selected, then next time the next release pattern in the listing is selected, and so on. In a further embodiment, the selection of the release pattern is based at least in part of the position of the claw assembly 20, which in turn is determined from the optical sensors 605. In such an embodiment, it is contemplated that different locations of the claw assembly 20 allow for different, or different subsets, of release patterns.
At step 930, the prize object 15 is dropped based on the determined release pattern from step 925, and then the game ends at step 960.
If at step 915 it is determined that the outcome is a winning outcome, then the process moves to step 935 to determine if a prize object 15 was successfully grabbed. Similar to step 920, the casino claw gaming machine 10 utilizes information from the weight sensors 310 associated with the play field 65 to determine that a prize object 15 has been removed from the play field 65.
If a prize object 15 was not grabbed, then the process can move to optional step 937 to provide a win game animation on display device 30. In this embodiment, since the game was determined to be a winning game outcome, but the player was not successful in picking up a prize object 15, the game must nevertheless provide the winning game outcome to the player. In this example, the casino claw gaming machine 10 may provide an alternate game feature via display device 30, such as a spin of virtual slot machine reels, the spin of a video wheel, or any other game feature that then displays a winning game outcome for the player.
The process then moves to step 955 of awarding a prize to the player based on the winning game outcome, and then ends the game at step 960. A prize can be based on the number of credits initially wagered by the player, and can be based on the type of win determined by the casino claw gaming machine 10. For example, the player could have wagered $1.00 on the play of the game, and the winning outcome could have been determined to be a 20× multiplier applied to the initiating game wager, thereby providing the player with an award of $20.00.
If at step 935 it is determined that the player was successful at grabbing a prize object 15, then the game causes the prize object 15 to be dropped at the shooter unit 25, as illustrated in step 940. Once dropped at shooter unit 25, the prize object 15 is verified at step 945, and as discussed in regards to
Another alternative embodiment, not expressly shown if
The flowchart illustrated at
Another improvement to traditional claw games or claw machines contemplated is the ability to track consecutive losses, and if a preset number of consecutive losses is reached in plays of the casino claw game, automatically provide the player an award or an ability to win an award. In one embodiment, the casino claw game could be programmed to always apply the same consecutive losses number, e.g., 75 consecutive losses. In another example, casino claw game 10 randomly determines a consecutive losses number between two numbers, e.g., 50 to 100 games. In each case, if the number of consecutive losses reaches the number programmed or otherwise selected by the casino claw game, the player is automatically provided with an award or an ability to win an award. For example, a player may win an automatic ten credits if the consecutive losses reaches the selected number. In another example, a player might be awarded a spin of video slot machine reels on the display device 30 if the consecutive loss number is reached. In a further embodiment, if the consecutive losses number is reached, the game selects a new or different consecutive losses number for subsequent plays.
In general terms, the hybrid casino claw gaming machine 100 involves two levels of play: a first level of play in which the player places a wager in the base game, and a second level of play in which the bonus claw game is activated upon satisfaction of a bonus claw game start condition in the base game.
In the present embodiment, the base game is a virtual slot machine game 35 that is presented on the display device 30 as shown in
In the present embodiment the virtual slot machine game 35 comprises three virtual reels and the bonus claw game start condition corresponds to three gray “7” symbols (hereinafter abbreviated as “G7 symbols”) arranged on a payline, as shown in
In a similar manner, each of the prize objects 15 in the hybrid casino claw gaming machine 100 corresponds to a red “7” symbol (hereinafter abbreviated as an “R7 symbol”), a blue “7” symbol (hereinafter abbreviated as a “B7 symbol”) or a universal “7” symbol (hereinafter abbreviated as a “U7 symbol”) which can function as both an R7 symbol and a B7 symbol depending on game context. Each of the prize objects 15 may be colored or decorated according to its corresponding symbols. In particular, each of the prize objects 15 may be decorated with either an R7 symbol, a B7 symbol or a U7 symbol, as shown in
In the present embodiment, the winning combination determined for the bonus claw gaming machine 100 also determines the payout to the player from the bonus claw game. That is, the bonus claw game is configured such that played is guaranteed to receive a payout corresponding to the determined winning combination, irrespective of the skill of the player or the actual performance of the player in the bonus claw game. For example, if the winning combination determined by the CPU 80 is three R7 symbols, the player is guaranteed to receive a payout corresponding to this winning combination, irrespective of the player's actual performance in the bonus claw game. However, as discussed in more detail below, the bonus claw game may be configured to give the player the impression that the outcome and thus the payout of the bonus claw game is dependent at least in part on the skill of the player, thereby increasing excitement and enjoyment for the player.
In general terms, the nominal objective of the bonus claw game as perceived by the player, is to use the claw assembly 20 to pick up prize objects 15 corresponding to a winning combination and deposit the picked-up prize objects 15 in the shooter unit 25. For example, knowing that a combination of three R7 symbols provides the highest payout, the player may attempt to manipulate the claw assembly 20 to pick up prize objects 15 decorated with the R7 symbol by controlling the claw assembly 20 using the input device 45. The player may determine to pick up prize objects 15 decorated with the R7 symbol in expectation that that three R7 symbols would provide the highest payout, even though the actual winning combination determined by the CPU 80 may be a different combination of symbols that is unknown to the player.
If the player successfully manipulates the claw assembly 20 to pick up a prize object 15, the CPU 80 may identify the symbol corresponding to the prize object 15. For example, the CPU 80 may identify the symbol corresponding to the picked-up prize object 15 by measuring the weight of the play field 65 using information from the weight sensors 310, or a weight sensor incorporated into the claw assembly 20. In other embodiments, technologies such as RFID or computer vision may be used to identify the symbol corresponding to the prize object 15, as an alternative or in addition to the weight sensors 310. After determining the symbol corresponding to the picked-up prize object 15, the CPU 80 determines whether the determined symbol forms part of the winning combination determined prior to activation of the bonus claw game. If the symbol corresponding to the picked-up prize object 15 forms part of the winning combination, the CPU 80 allows the player to move the claw assembly 20 to a position above the shooter unit 25 and deposit the prize object 15. Conversely, if the symbol corresponding to the picked-up prize object 15 does not form part of the winning combination, the CPU 80 controls the claw assembly 20 to release the prize object 15, thereby preventing the player from depositing the prize object 15 in the shooter unit 25. In some embodiments, the CPU 80 may control the claw assembly 20 to release the prize object 15 in accordance with a release pattern as discussed in more detail above. In this manner, the CPU 80 can ensure that only prize objects 15 forming part of the determined winning combination are deposited in the shooter unit 25, irrespective of the skill of the player.
As discussed above, the U7 symbol may function as either an R7 or a B7 symbols, depending on context. That is, a prize object 15 corresponding to the U7 symbols can function as either an R7 or a B7 symbol to form part of determined winning combination. Thus, for example, in a case in which the winning combination is three R7 symbols, this winning combination may be satisfied by picking up any combination of three prize objects 15 corresponding R7 and/or U7 symbols.
Each time a prize object 15 is deposited in the shooter unit 25, the CPU 80 may update the display device 30 to indicate that the deposited prize object 15 forms part of the determined winning combination. For example, the CPU 80 may change a G7 symbol in the virtual slot machine game 35 to an R7 symbol, a B7 symbol or a U7 symbol, depending on the symbol corresponding to the deposited prize object 15. In the case of a U7 symbol, the G7 symbol may be changed to an R7 symbol or a B7 symbol in accordance with the winning combination at the time that the corresponding prize object 15 is deposited in the shooter unit 25. Alternatively, the G7 may be initially changed to a U7 symbol at the time that the corresponding prize object 15 is deposited in the shooter unit 25, and later changed to either an R7 symbols or a B7 symbol when the final outcome of the bonus claw game is revealed to the player (e.g., using a particular win game animation or the like). In the latter case, the delay between depositing the prize object 15 corresponding to the U7 symbol and the revealing of the function of the U7 symbol in the winning combination may create a sense of suspense and anticipation for the player.
If the player is able to pick up and deposit prize objects 15 corresponding to symbols forming the determined winning combination, the CPU 80 ends the bonus claw game informs the user that they will receive a payout corresponding to the winning combination. This may be performed using an appropriate win game animation presented on the display device 30.
In some embodiments, the player may be allowed to deposit prize objects 15 in the shooter unit 25 until a prescribed condition has occurred. In certain embodiments, the prescribed condition that occurs may be a prescribed time period (e.g., 60 seconds) in which to deposit prize objects 15 in the shooter unit 25 expires or elapses. Alternatively, the prescribed condition that occurs may be a prescribed number of attempts at depositing prize objects 15 in the shooter unit 25 being reached. In the event that prescribed condition occurs before the player is able to form the determined winning combination (e.g., the prescribed time period expires or elapses or the prescribed number of attempts is reached), control of the claw assembly 20 is locked and CPU 80 controls the display device 30 to display a win game animation in which the reels in the virtual slot machine game 35 are changed to the determined winning combination and a payout corresponding to the winning combination is made to the player. That is, even if the player is not able to pick up and deposit prize objects 15 forming the winning combination within the prescribed time period of the prescribed number of attempts, the play will still receive the payout corresponding to the winning combination by virtue of the win game animation.
Although certain steps, actions or blocks are described herein, the present disclosure is not so limited and one or more steps, actions or blocks described herein may be performed in a different order, one or more steps, actions or blocks may be omitted, and/or one or additional more steps, actions or blocks may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
In step 1202 an indication of monetary currency input by the player is received from the currency acceptor 55. For example, CPU 80 may be configured to receive an indication of monetary currency being input by the player from the currency acceptor 55 (see
In step 1204, the player plays the base game based on the monetary currency amount received in step 1202. In the present embodiment, the player plays the virtual slot machine game 35 by spinning the three virtual reels shown in the display device 30.
In step 1206, the CPU 80 determines whether the bonus claw game start condition has been satisfied in the base game. That is, in the present embodiment the CPU 80 determines whether the outcome of the base game is three G7 symbols arranged on a payline as shown in
In step 1208, the CPU 80 determines the winning combination for the bonus claw game using the RNG and in accordance with the approved RTP for the hybrid casino claw gaming machine 100. After the winning combination has been determined, the bonus claw game is started, and the player is given control of the claw assembly 20 in step 1210.
In step 1212, the CPU 80 determines whether the player has successfully picked up a prize object 15 using the claw assembly 20. As discussed above, this determination may be based on information received from the weight sensors 310 positioned below the play field 65 or a weight sensor incorporated in the claw assembly 20 itself. In the event that a prize object 15 has been picked up (i.e., “YES” in step 1212) the operation proceeds to step 1214. In the event that a prize object 15 has not been picked up (i.e., “NO” in step 1214), the operation returns to step 1210 and the bonus claw game continues.
In step 1214, the CPU 80 determines whether the picked-up prize object 15 forms part of the winning combination determined in step 1208. In the present embodiment, this includes identifying the symbol associated with the picked-up prize object 15 and then determining whether the identified symbol forms part of the determined winning combination. As discussed above, identification of the symbol associated with the picked-up prize object 15 may be based on information from the weight sensors 310, or a weight sensor incorporated into the claw assembly 20.
Upon determining that the picked-up prize object 15 forms part of the winning combination, the CPU 80 allows the player to deposit the picked up prize object 15 in the shooter unit 25 and optionally updates the display device 30 to indicate that the deposited prize object 15 forms part of the determined winning combination in the manner described above. Conversely, if it is determined that the picked-up prize object 15 does not form part of the winning combination, the CPU 80 controls the claw assembly 20 to release the prize object 15 in accordance with a selected release pattern, as described above, in step 1222.
After the prize object 15 has been deposited in the shooter unit 25 in step 1216, the CPU 80 determines whether the winning combination is satisfied in step 1218. If the winning combination is satisfied (i.e., “YES” in step 1218), the CPU makes the corresponding payout to the player in step 1220. It should be appreciated that when the prize object 15 that has been deposited in the shooter unit 25 in step 1216, the shooter unit may also verify whether the prize object 15 is a legitimate prize object according to any of the verification procedures discussed herein.
In the event that the picked-up prize object 15 was released (i.e., step 1222) or it was determined that the winning combination is not yes satisfied (i.e., “NO” in step S1218), the CPU 80 proceeds to determine whether a prescribed condition has occurred at step 1224. The prescribed condition occurring may be a prescribed time period expiring or elapsing, or a prescribed number of attempts to deposit the prize object 15 on the shooter unit 15 being reached. If the prescribed condition has occurred (e.g., the prescribed time period has expired or the prescribed number of attempts to deposit the prize object 15 on the shooter unit 15 has been reached), the CPU 80 controls the display device 30 to show the win game animation as described above in step 1226 and then proceeds to step 1220 to make the payout to the player. If the prescribed condition has not occurred (e.g., the prescribed time period has not expired or the prescribed number of attempts to deposit the prize object 15 on the shooter unit has not been reached), the operation returns to step 1210 and the bonus claw game continues.
Reference to software in the present disclosure may encompass one or more computer programs that may encompass data, instructions, or both.
One or more tangible and non-transitory computer-readable media may store or otherwise embody software implementing particular embodiments. A tangible computer-readable medium may be any tangible medium capable of carrying, communicating, containing, holding, maintaining, propagating, retaining, storing, transmitting, transporting, or otherwise embodying software, where appropriate. A tangible computer-readable medium may be a biological, chemical, electronic, electromagnetic, infrared, magnetic, optical, quantum, or other suitable medium or a combination of two or more such media, where appropriate. Example tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), compact discs (CDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), floppy disks, floptical disks, hard disks, holographic storage devices, magnetic tape, caches, programmable logic devices (PLDs), random-access memory (RAM) devices, read-only memory (ROM) devices, semiconductor memory devices, and other suitable computer-readable media.
Software implementing particular embodiments may be written in any suitable programming language (which may be procedural or object oriented) or combination of programming languages, where appropriate. Any suitable type of computer system (such as a single- or multiple-processor computer system) or systems may execute software implementing particular embodiments, where appropriate. A general-purpose or specific-purpose computer system may execute software implementing particular embodiments, where appropriate.
Further examples are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
This application is a continuation under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/459,685, filed Aug. 27, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/071,700 filed Aug. 28, 2020. The above-referenced patent applications are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20230298440 A1 | Sep 2023 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63071700 | Aug 2020 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17459685 | Aug 2021 | US |
| Child | 18322372 | US |
