Patent Application
20250078623
Embodiments described herein relate to game play features with wagering games, and in particular to a cryptographic token enabled secondary game for a wagering game in a gaming environment, such as in a casino environment, and related devices, systems, and methods. Some wagering games, such as slot games and/or video poker games provided at Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) and/or mechanical gaming devices in a casino environment, may include unique game features as an additional incentive for play of a wagering game. There is a need for providing additional options for player interaction and enjoyment to encourage wagering game play.
According to some embodiments, a system includes a processor circuit and a memory coupled to the processor circuit. The memory comprises machine readable instructions that, when executed by the processor circuit, cause the processor circuit to provide a primary wagering game at a gaming device to a first player and determine a cryptographic token associated with the first player. The cryptographic token includes a player identifier indicative of the player associated with the cryptographic token and a benefit identifier associated with a game benefit being provided to the first player associated with the cryptographic token. The instructions further cause the processor circuit to, based on the cryptographic token, provide a secondary game at the gaming device, wherein play of the secondary game does not affect play of the primary wagering game, and wherein play of the secondary game appears to the first player to modify play of the primary wagering game.
According to some embodiments, a gaming device includes a display device, a processor circuit, and a memory coupled to the processor circuit. The memory includes machine-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor circuit, cause the processor circuit to provide a primary wagering game at a gaming device to a first player, wherein provision of the primary game comprises display of a plurality primary game elements of the primary game on a display device of the gaming device, and determine a cryptographic token associated with the first player. The cryptographic token includes a player identifier indicative of the player associated with the cryptographic token and a benefit identifier associated with a game benefit being provided to the first player associated with the cryptographic token. The instructions further cause the processor circuit to, based on the cryptographic token, provide a secondary game at the gaming device, wherein play of the secondary game does not affect play of the primary wagering game, wherein provision of the secondary game comprises display of a plurality of secondary game elements of the secondary game on the display device of the gaming device, and wherein a first secondary game element of the plurality of secondary game elements overlays a first primary game element of the plurality of game elements on the display device.
According to some embodiments, a method includes providing, by a processor circuit, a primary wagering game at a gaming device to a first player, and determining, by the processor circuit, a cryptographic token associated with the first player. The cryptographic token includes a player identifier indicative of the player associated with the cryptographic token and a benefit identifier associated with a game benefit being provided to the first player associated with the cryptographic token. The method further includes, based on the cryptographic token, providing, by the processor circuit, a secondary game at the gaming device, wherein play of the secondary game does not affect play of the primary wagering game, and wherein play of the secondary game appears to the first player to modify play of the primary wagering game.
In some embodiments, cryptographic tokens may be redeemable as game features or side games for a wagering game. For example, the game features may be accessed as part of a play session at a dedicated gaming device, e.g., an EGM, sports betting kiosk, etc., or may be accessed in an independent gaming environment, such as a mobile phone, tablet, or other player device.
In some embodiments, cryptographic token-based game content can be provided in a flexible and cost-effective manner, and in a way that does require modification of existing games. In many jurisdictions, when games are modified, they need to be re-submitted for regulatory certification, which represents an additional cost. At the same time, however, it is desirable for the player's experience to be as seamless and coordinated as possible. To address these and other problems, a cryptographic token may provide additional content that does not interfere or interact with the base game of the gaming device. For example, the EGM's platform or casino host system may collect sufficient data about events that are occurring in the base game, and the token-based content can access this data in real time or near real time without any interaction with the base game. The gaming device platform may display the base game and the token-based content at the same time, and in a manner that the combination of the two types of content appears seamless to the player.
In this and other embodiments, additional cryptographic token-based game enhancements can be added to a gaming device without having to modify the existing base game(s) on the EGM. That is, the additional game features may reside outside of the base game (which may be an existing game with regulatory approval) and interact with the gaming device in parallel, e.g., using the gaming device's platform, casino host system, etc.). From the player's perspective, the base game and token-based content may appear seamlessly integrated, but the additional game feature would actually be implemented as an independent overlay that would not require the underlying base game to be modified. One technical advantage of these and other embodiments is that a potentially large existing library of game content can be utilized and integrated into new game features much more quickly and may be adapted across product lines more easily.
In some examples, the cryptographic token-based content may be overlaid on a primary display of the gaming device, similar to overlay technologies that may be used for overlaying player-tracking content on top of a gaming device's game content. In some examples, the token-based content may be provided via a separate player tracking unit installed in the gaming device. For example, installing a player tracking unit may be more appropriate in mechanical gaming devices, such as stepper-based slot machines, that may not have a suitable built-in screen for displaying content.
In some examples, a host system may provide the EGM with additional independent content that is overlaid (within a seamless window) on top of the EGM's base game. The additional content can function independently of the base game and does not disrupt the base game's functionality. The host system may also collect and provide information about the base game (such as wagers and wins that are occurring) to the additional content. The additional content can use this information to perform its own actions in response to the events that are happening in the base game. In this manner, token-based content can share the EGM's screen with the base game without requiring any modifications to the base game.
In some embodiments, the token-based content may also can respond to events in the base game, such as awarding tokens to the player when wagers above a predetermined threshold are made in the base game or when wins above a predetermined threshold have been awarded to the player in the base game, for example. In some examples, the token-based content may also respond to cumulative data about the base game such as the total wagers, average wagers or total wins during an entire game play session.
In some embodiments, players may maintain a player account such that cryptographic tokens can be awarded, earned, redeemed using an “add on” or “bolt on” game feature or side game. Token-based features may include token creation, token evolution, such as by adding personalized content to convert a fungible token to a non-fungible token, and/or token collection. Other applications may include unlocking game features or bonus games, providing additional chances or improved odds or paytables for bonus content or other content, redemption of monetary and/or non-monetary awards, entries, merchandise, etc., cosmetic game enhancements such as improved graphics or sound, and/or advisory and support functions, such as to help a player decide what games to play or what game actions to take. Token features and stored information may be shared with the player's account to allow for cross-channel use and redemption as well.
In some examples, a fungible token may be converted or transformed into a non-fungible token through use by the player. For example, a token may be trained to influence gameplay, such as by remembering and applying game play preferences and actions, such as betting patterns, and/or adapting to player behavior using machine learning or other techniques. A token may reorder games listed in a chooser or change a chooser layout based on a player's preferred games and/or styles, automatically populate categories with favorite games, recommended games, etc., and change a visual style, organization, and/or navigation interface. For example, a player's favorite or most-played games may be determined by playing time or amount of wagers placed may be shown first in the chooser. In some examples, categories in a chooser may be sorted by game genre or another order to prioritize a player's favorite game category. In some examples, new games based on existing game themes may be released that are similar to a player's favorite games, and can be featured in the chooser.
Tokens may tailor user interface elements such as graphics and/or sound, automatically select a player's preferred language, and may execute math models to search for and identify additional games that may be compatible with the token-based features, and may make game suggestions or otherwise guide the player toward those games. In some examples, token-based features may provide a digital assistant or advisor to help the player seek out preferred game features, such as games with wild symbols, games with progressives/bonus pots, games with free spins bonuses, games with pick-a-prize bonuses, etc.
In some embodiments, token-based features may make decisions for the player, such as player picks, bonus decisions, etc., and/or may unlock the ability to have certain player choices made automatically based on the player's preferences, which may be pre-configured by the player.
In some embodiments, game play in one or more channels may be used to update and/or evolve token-based features in ways that are unique to the player. Game play parameters that may be used may include time spent playing, amounts wagered, amounts won/lost, etc., and/or based on game events, such as unlocking achievements in the wagering game or triggering certain game features such as bonuses or jackpots.
In some embodiments, token-based features can evolve within game families or categories, such as games that may have a common feature, such as shared bonuses, themes, progressives, etc. For example, token-based features may be used in any game within a game family, and may be personalized to include features of the game family, such as game elements, themes, etc. After reaching certain game play thresholds, a fungible token may be converted into a non-fungible token with a unique identifier associated with the player, which can in turn be use for special draws such as a progressive jackpot entry.
Tokens and token-based features may be collected though add-on or mini game features, such as completing a puzzle, searching for a hidden game element, interactive/skill-based features, mystery events, etc. In some examples, a player may be encouraged to read a help screen of a game to discover and learn about new game features. In some examples, the help screen may include hidden elements that may be collected. In some examples, game symbols can be collected to use with token-based content. For example, a scratch ticket may reveal a special symbol that can then be collected and linked to the player's account, to be applied to another game in the family, online, or land-based casino, for example.
In some examples, token-based content may qualify a player for a progressive pot and/or an additional jackpot level. In some examples, a portion of a jackpot may include a token or may be used to purchase a token. One advantage of this arrangement may be a reduction in tax liability depending on local laws and/or regulations, while still providing an award with real and/or perceived value. Tokens may be usable one or multiple times, as desired. For example, a token can be added to a prize pool for a bonus game, and if the token is selected in the game, the total award may be increased or enhanced. In some examples, a token-based feature may be used to provide an advantage or enhancement during a bonus game, such as unlocking additional bonus symbols, reels, or other features, and/or increasing or enhancing a bonus win, e.g., applying a multiplier.
In some examples, a token-based feature may qualify a player for a bonus or other enhancement. For example, in a progressive game that normally requires the player to wager a maximum amount to qualify for the jackpot, a token or token-based feature could unlock the ability to wager a lower amount and still qualify for the jackpot. In some examples, as a token increases in value and/or status over time and/or based on the player's play or spending, the bet threshold may be lowered further.
In some examples, a token-based feature may upgrade a game bonus with additional or special prizes by adding a token or token-based feature to a bonus game into the mix when picking, selecting, or being awarded a bonus. For example, a visual representation of the token (or multiple tokens) may become one of the elements in a pick-a-prize bonus, or may become a symbol on one or more reels during a free spins bonus. In some examples, a token or token-based feature may affect the bonus directly, such as making the bonus more complex, increasing the award amount, giving the player more chances to win, increasing the number of free spins, etc. In some examples, the token or token-based feature may allow the player to make a bonus choice that could result in a cross channel award, such as a choice between free games and a scratch ticket.
In some examples, a secondary game may be made available to play that is completely funded and paid out with tokens, such as a side game that is played within or in tandem with another game (e.g., side by side with the base game), which may in turn increase player loyalty and engagement. In some examples, a token or token-based feature may unlock special pay categories, such as enhanced pay tables, additional themes, games, or skins of games in a multigame suite, classic or rare games, and/or special suite of exclusive games. For example, many wagering games have evolved over time to include additional and updated graphics and/or UI elements, but the original versions of these games may be attractive to some players, e.g., based on nostalgia. These original versions may be made available in different channels, such as online casinos, while the current versions are available in land-based EGMs. This could help encourage the player to the online casino where they could play the old game and also try out some of the other games offered in the online casino (i.e., as a promotional tool for the online casino while also giving the player something they value). In some examples, the token or token-based features may make a game available in another channel, e.g., land-based, online, etc., and may also unlock different game themes or other UI modifications in different channels.
Before describing these and other features in greater detail, reference is now made to
A wireless access point 60 provides wireless access to the data communication network 50. The wireless access point 60 may be connected to the data communication network 50 as illustrated in
A player tracking server 45 may also be connected through the data communication network 50. The player tracking server 45 may manage a player tracking account that tracks the player's gameplay and spending and/or other player preferences and customizations, manages loyalty awards for the player, manages funds deposited or advanced on behalf of the player, and other functions. Player information managed by the player tracking server 45 may be stored in a player information database 47.
As further illustrated in
The gaming devices 100 communicate with one or more elements of the gaming system 10 to coordinate providing wagering games and other functionality. For example, in some embodiments, the gaming device 100 may communicate directly with the ticket server 90 over a wireless interface 62, which may be a WiFi link, a Bluetooth link, a near field communications (NFC) link, etc. In other embodiments, the gaming device 100 may communicate with the data communication network 50 (and devices connected thereto, including other gaming devices 100) over a wireless interface 64 with the wireless access point 60. The wireless interface 64 may include a WiFi link, a Bluetooth link, an NFC link, etc. In still further embodiments, the gaming devices 100 may communicate simultaneously with both the ticket server 90 over the wireless interface 66 and the wireless access point 60 over the wireless interface 64. Some embodiments provide that gaming devices 100 may communicate with other gaming devices over a wireless interface 64. In these embodiments, wireless interface 62, wireless interface 64 and wireless interface 66 may use different communication protocols and/or different communication resources, such as different frequencies, time slots, spreading codes, etc.
Embodiments herein may include different types of gaming devices. One example of a gaming device includes a gaming device 100 that can use gesture and/or touch-based inputs according to various embodiments is illustrated in
Gaming devices 100 typically include a number of standard features, many of which are illustrated in
The gaming device 100 illustrated in
The player tracking display 142 may be used to display a service window that allows the player to interact with, for example, their player loyalty account to obtain features, bonuses, comps, etc. In other embodiments, additional display screens may be provided beyond those illustrated in
The gaming device 100 may further include a number of input devices 130 that allow a player to provide various inputs to the gaming device 100, either before, during or after a game has been played. The gaming device may further include a game play initiation button 132 and a cashout button 134. The cashout button 134 is utilized to receive a cash payment or any other suitable form of payment corresponding to a quantity of remaining credits of a credit display.
In some embodiments, one or more input devices of the gaming device 100 are one or more game play activation devices that are each used to initiate a play of a game on the gaming device 100 or a sequence of events associated with the gaming device 100 following appropriate funding of the gaming device 100. The example gaming device 100 illustrated in
In some embodiments, one or more input device 130 of the gaming device 100 may include wagering or betting functionality. For example, a maximum wagering or betting function may be provided that, when utilized, causes a maximum wager to be placed. Another such wagering or betting function is a repeat the bet device that, when utilized, causes the previously-placed wager to be placed. A further such wagering or betting function is a bet one function. A bet is placed upon utilization of the bet one function. The bet is increased by one credit each time the bet one device is utilized. Upon the utilization of the bet one function, a quantity of credits shown in a credit display (as described below) decreases by one, and a number of credits shown in a bet display (as described below) increases by one.
In some embodiments, as shown in
Referring briefly to
Referring again to
The display devices 116, 118, 140 and video controller 30 of the gaming device 100 are generally configured to display one or more game and/or non-game images, symbols, and indicia. In certain embodiments, the display devices 116, 118, 140 of the gaming device 100 are configured to display any suitable visual representation or exhibition of the movement of objects; dynamic lighting; video images; images of people, characters, places, things, and faces of cards; and the like. In certain embodiments, the display devices 116, 118, 140 of the gaming device 100 are configured to display one or more virtual reels, one or more virtual wheels, and/or one or more virtual dice. In other embodiments, certain of the displayed images, symbols, and indicia are in mechanical form. That is, in these embodiments, the display device 116, 118, 140 includes any electromechanical device, such as one or more rotatable wheels, one or more reels, and/or one or more dice, configured to display at least one or a plurality of game or other suitable images, symbols, or indicia.
The gaming device 100 also includes various features that enable a player to deposit credits in the gaming device 100 and withdraw credits from the gaming device 100, such as in the form of a payout of winnings, credits, etc. For example, the gaming device 100 may include a bill/ticket dispenser 136, a bill/ticket acceptor 128, and a coin acceptor 126 that allows the player to deposit coins into the gaming device 100.
As illustrated in
The gaming device 100 may further include one or more speakers 150 controlled by one or more sound cards 28 (
In various embodiments, the gaming device 100 may generate dynamic sounds coupled with attractive multimedia images displayed on one or more of the display devices 116, 118, 140 to provide an audio-visual representation or to otherwise display full-motion video with sound to attract players to the gaming device 100 and/or to engage the player during gameplay. In certain embodiments, the gaming device 100 may display a sequence of audio and/or visual attraction messages during idle periods to attract potential players to the gaming device 100. The videos may be customized to provide any appropriate information.
The gaming device 100 may further include a card reader 138 that is configured to read magnetic stripe cards, such as player loyalty/tracking cards, chip cards, and the like. In some embodiments, a player may insert an identification card into a card reader of the gaming device. In some embodiments, the identification card is a smart card having a programmed microchip or a magnetic strip coded with a player's identification, credit totals (or related data) and other relevant information. In other embodiments, a player may carry a portable device, such as a cell phone, a radio frequency identification tag or any other suitable wireless device, which communicates a player's identification, credit totals (or related data) and other relevant information to the gaming device. In some embodiments, money may be transferred to a gaming device through electronic funds transfer. When a player funds the gaming device, the processing circuit determines the amount of funds entered and displays the corresponding amount on the credit or other suitable display as described above.
In some embodiments, the gaming device 100 may include an electronic payout device or module configured to fund an electronically recordable identification card or smart card or a bank or other account via an electronic funds transfer to or from the gaming device 100.
Various components of the gaming device 100 are illustrated in
The gaming device 100 further includes a memory device 14 that stores one or more functional modules 20. Various functional modules 20 of the gaming device 100 will be described in more detail below in connection with
The memory device 14 may store program code and instructions, executable by the processing circuit 12, to control the gaming device 100. The memory device 14 may also store other data such as image data, event data, player input data, random or pseudo-random number generators, pay-table data or information and applicable game rules that relate to the play of the gaming device. The memory device 14 may include random access memory (RAM), which can include non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), magnetic RAM (ARAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM) and other forms as commonly understood in the gaming industry. In some embodiments, the memory device 14 may include read only memory (ROM). In some embodiments, the memory device 14 may include 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 gaming device disclosed herein.
The gaming device 100 may further include a data storage 22, such as a hard disk drive or flash memory. The data storage 22 may store program data, player data, audit trail data or any other type of data. The data storage 22 may include a detachable or removable memory device, including, but not limited to, a suitable cartridge, disk, CD ROM, Digital Video Disc (“DVD”) or USB memory device.
The gaming device 100 may include a communication adapter 26 that enables the gaming device 100 to communicate with remote devices over a wired and/or wireless communication network, such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), cellular communication network, or other data communication network. The communication adapter 26 may further include circuitry for supporting short range wireless communication protocols, such as Bluetooth and/or NFC that enable the gaming device 100 to communicate, for example, with a mobile communication device operated by a player.
The gaming device 100 may include one or more internal or external communication ports that enable the processing circuit 12 to communicate with and to operate with internal or external peripheral devices, such as eye tracking devices, position tracking devices, cameras, accelerometers, arcade sticks, bar code readers, bill validators, biometric input devices, bonus devices, button panels, card readers, coin dispensers, coin hoppers, display screens or other displays or video sources, expansion buses, information panels, keypads, lights, mass storage devices, microphones, motion sensors, motors, printers, reels, Small Computer System Interface (“SCSI”) ports, solenoids, speakers, thumb drives, ticket readers, touch screens, trackballs, touchpads, wheels, and wireless communication devices. In some embodiments, internal or external peripheral devices may communicate with the processing circuit through a USB hub (not shown) connected to the processing circuit 12.
In some embodiments, the gaming device 100 may include a sensor, such as a camera 127, in communication with the processing circuit 12 (and possibly controlled by the processing circuit 12) that is selectively positioned to acquire an image of a player actively using the gaming device 100 and/or the surrounding area of the gaming device 100. In one embodiment, the camera 127 may be configured to selectively acquire still or moving (e.g., video) images and may be configured to acquire the images in either an analog, digital or other suitable format. The display devices 116, 118, 140 may be configured to display the image acquired by the camera 127 as well as display the visible manifestation of the game in split screen or picture-in-picture fashion. For example, the camera 127 may acquire an image of the player and the processing circuit 12 may incorporate that image into the primary and/or secondary game as a game image, symbol or indicia.
Various functional modules of that may be stored in a memory device 14 of a gaming device 100 are illustrated in
In some embodiments, a gaming device 100 includes a personal device, such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a mobile device, a tablet computer or computing device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or other portable computing devices. In some embodiments, the gaming device 100 may be operable over a wireless network, such as part of a wireless gaming system. In such embodiments, the gaming machine may be a hand-held device, a mobile device or any other suitable wireless device that enables a player to play any suitable game at a variety of different locations. It should be appreciated that a gaming device or gaming machine as disclosed herein may be a device that has obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission or a device that has not obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission.
For example, referring to
Although illustrated as certain gaming devices, such as electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and mobile gaming devices, functions and/or operations as described herein may also include wagering stations that may include electronic game tables, conventional game tables including those involving cards, dice and/or roulette, and/or other wagering stations such as sports book stations, video poker games, skill-based games, virtual casino-style table games, or other casino or non-casino style games. Further, gaming devices according to embodiments herein may be implemented using other computing devices and mobile devices, such as smart phones, tablets, and/or personal computers, among others.
Referring now to
In this example, each blockchain block 308 may include one or more different types of data. For example, each blockchain block 308 may include cryptographic hash data 310 indicative of a result of the hashing function 304 associated with a common blockchain, token identifier data 312 indicative of an identity of a cryptographic token 314 associated with the block 308, common identifier data 316 indicative of the cryptographic token 314 being part of a plurality of cryptographic tokens, e.g., a defined subset of tokens based on different criteria, associated with the common blockchain, player identifier data 318 indicative of an identity of a player associated with the cryptographic token 314, transaction identifier data 320 associated with the unique transaction on the blockchain, which may include a sending address 322 associated with a provider of the cryptographic token 314 and a receiving address 324 associated with the player identifier data 318.
The cryptographic token 314 may include some or all of the data structure of the respective associated block 308 and/or may contain a block identifier 325 referring to the associated block 308, which allows the cryptographic token 314 to be securely and transparently authenticated against the blockchain. In some examples, the cryptographic token 314 may include a common identifier 326 corresponding to the common identifier data 316 and indicative of the cryptographic token 314 being part of the plurality of cryptographic tokens, and a player identifier 328 corresponding to the player identifier data 318 and indicative of a player associated with the cryptographic token 314. The cryptographic token 314 may include a unique transaction identifier 330 associated with a unique transaction on the blockchain, i.e., a unique block 308, and may include the sending address 322 and/or the receiving address 324.
For example, a new transaction for the cryptographic token may include transmitting a transaction indication of the new transaction including a sending address 322 and receiving address 324, and, based on the transaction indication, modifying the player identifier data 318 in a new block 308 and/or the player identifier 328 of the cryptographic token 314 to be indicative of a different player.
In some examples, each block 308 may further include benefit identifier data 332 associated with a game benefit being provided to the player associated with the cryptographic token 314. Alternatively or in addition, the cryptographic token 314 may include a benefit identifier 334 corresponding to the benefit and/or benefit identifier data 332. Each cryptographic token 314 may be a fungible token that is fungible with other cryptographic tokens, and/or may further include a unique identifier 336, which may correspond to the token identifier data 312 of the block 308, such that the cryptographic token 314 is a non-fungible token that is not fungible with other cryptographic tokens.
As a general principle, a validation process may be performed to ensure that each new blockchain block 308 meets the criteria for inclusion into the blockchain data structure. In a blockchain configuration, there are varying consensus algorithms that can be used. For example, a private blockchain may choose an algorithm such as Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT). The PBFT mechanism may be useful for small networks, such as networks having fewer than about 100 nodes. Other examples include a Proof of Work (PoW) consensus algorithm and/or a Proof of Stake (POS) consensus algorithm, which may be used as the value of an underlying data block and/or value changes.
Referring now to
As shown by
In this example, while the secondary game does not actually affect play of the primary wagering game, the secondary game elements 416 may be provided in a way that play of the secondary game appears to the player to modify play of the primary wagering game. For example, in this embodiment, a first secondary game element 418 of the plurality of secondary game elements 416 may overlay a first primary game element 420 (shown in
In this example, the cryptographic token may enable a game feature to obtain information about the primary game, such as an arrangement of the primary game elements 406, and determine a primary game result 422 (shown in
At the same time, the token may enable, e.g., via a benefit identifier of the token, the secondary game to determine a modified primary game result as if the first secondary game element 418 overlaying the first primary game element 420 had replaced the first primary game element 420 in the primary game result 422, which may include a modified primary game award 428 based on the primary game paytable 426. The token may further enable the secondary game to determine a secondary game result 430 with a secondary game award 432 that may be added to the primary game award 424 and presented to the player in the GUI 400 as a total game award 434 that appears to be the modified primary game award 428 based on the apparent modified primary game result. For example, the secondary game award 430 may corresponding to a difference between the primary game award 424 of the primary game paytable 426 corresponding to the primary game result 422 and the modified primary game award 428 of the primary game paytable 426 corresponding to the modified primary game result, i.e., where the first primary game element 420 is replaced by the secondary game element 418. In this manner, the independent determination of the secondary game result 430 and the secondary game award 432 may allow the secondary game to be provided in parallel with existing primary wagering games without the need to obtain regulatory approval for the existing primary wagering game in some jurisdictions. In some examples, secondary game elements may appear adjacent primary game elements such that the primary and secondary game elements appear to be part of the same primary game. For example, in some embodiments, an additional secondary slot reel of the secondary game may be displayed adjacent the plurality of primary slot reels for the primary game, wherein the primary slot reels and the secondary slot reel appear to the first player to be in a common reel array.
In some examples, the cryptographic token may be provided to the first player based on play of the primary wagering game by the first player meeting a predetermined threshold, such as play of the primary wagering game by the first player for a predetermined amount of time, a predetermined total wager amount by the first player during play of the primary wagering game, a predetermined total win amount by the first player during play of the primary wagering game, and/or a predetermined total loss amount by the first player during play of the primary wagering game, etc. In some examples, a portion of each wager on the primary wagering game may be allocated to a secondary game award pool, such that the secondary game award 432 may be provided to the first player from the secondary game award pool.
In some examples, the secondary game may include a game element collection feature, where a secondary game award is provided based on collection of specific game symbols in the primary wagering game during one or more game sessions. In this regard,
As shown in
Based on the cryptographic token, the operations 600 may further include providing, by the processor circuit, a secondary game at the gaming device, wherein play of the secondary game does not affect play of the primary wagering game, and wherein play of the secondary game appears to the first player to modify play of the primary wagering game (Block 606).
Embodiments described herein may be implemented in various configurations for gaming devices 100, including but not limited to: (1) a dedicated gaming device, wherein the computerized instructions for controlling any games (which are provided by the gaming device) are provided with the gaming device prior to delivery to a gaming establishment; and (2) a changeable gaming device, where the computerized instructions for controlling any games (which are provided by the gaming device) are downloadable to the gaming device through a data network when the gaming device is in a gaming establishment. In some embodiments, the computerized instructions for controlling any games are executed by at least one central server, central controller or remote host. In such a “thin client” embodiment, the central server remotely controls any games (or other suitable interfaces), and the gaming device is utilized to display such games (or suitable interfaces) and receive one or more inputs or commands from a player. In another embodiment, the computerized instructions for controlling any games are communicated from the central server, central controller or remote host to a gaming device local processor and memory devices. In such a “thick client” embodiment, the gaming device local processor executes the communicated computerized instructions to control any games (or other suitable interfaces) provided to a player.
In some embodiments, a gaming device may be operated by a mobile device, such as a mobile telephone, tablet other mobile computing device. For example, a mobile device may be communicatively coupled to a gaming device and may include a user interface that receives user inputs that are received to control the gaming device. The user inputs may be received by the gaming device via the mobile device.
In some embodiments, one or more gaming devices in a gaming system may be thin client gaming devices and one or more gaming devices in the gaming system may be thick client gaming devices. In another embodiment, certain functions of the gaming device are implemented in a thin client environment and certain other functions of the gaming device are implemented in a thick client environment. In one such embodiment, computerized instructions for controlling any primary games are communicated from the central server to the gaming device in a thick client configuration and computerized instructions for controlling any secondary games or bonus functions are executed by a central server in a thin client configuration.
The present disclosure contemplates a variety of different gaming systems each having one or more of a plurality of different features, attributes, or characteristics. It should be appreciated that a “gaming system” as used herein refers to various configurations of: (a) one or more central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts; (b) one or more gaming devices; and/or (c) one or more personal gaming devices, such as desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers or computing devices, PDAs, mobile telephones such as smart phones, and other mobile computing devices.
In certain such embodiments, computerized instructions for controlling any games (such as any primary or base games and/or any secondary or bonus games) displayed by the gaming device are executed by the central server, central controller, or remote host. In such “thin client” embodiments, the central server, central controller, or remote host remotely controls any games (or other suitable interfaces) displayed by the gaming device, and the gaming device is utilized to display such games (or suitable interfaces) and to receive one or more inputs or commands. In other such embodiments, computerized instructions for controlling any games displayed by the gaming device are communicated from the central server, central controller, or remote host to the gaming device and are stored in at least one memory device of the gaming device. In such “thick client” embodiments, the at least one processor of the gaming device executes the computerized instructions to control any games (or other suitable interfaces) displayed by the gaming device.
In some embodiments in which the gaming system includes: (a) a gaming device configured to communicate with a central server, central controller, or remote host through a data network; and/or (b) a plurality of gaming devices configured to communicate with one another through a data network, the data network is an internet or an intranet. In certain such embodiments, an internet browser of the gaming device is usable to access an internet game page from any location where an internet connection is available. In one such embodiment, after the internet game page is accessed, the central server, central controller, or remote host identifies a player prior to enabling that player to place any wagers on any plays of any wagering games. In one example, the central server, central controller, or remote host identifies the player by requiring a player account of the player to be logged into via an input of a unique username and password combination assigned to the player. It should be appreciated, however, that the central server, central controller, or remote host may identify the player in any other suitable manner, such as by validating a player tracking identification number associated with the player; by reading a player tracking card or other smart card inserted into a card reader (as described below); by validating a unique player identification number associated with the player by the central server, central controller, or remote host; or by identifying the gaming device, such as by identifying the MAC address or the IP address of the internet facilitator. In various embodiments, once the central server, central controller, or remote host identifies the player, the central server, central controller, or remote host enables placement of one or more wagers on one or more plays of one or more primary or base games and/or one or more secondary or bonus games and displays those plays via the internet browser of the gaming device.
It should be appreciated that the central server, central controller, or remote host and the gaming device are configured to connect to the data network or remote communications link in any suitable manner. In various embodiments, such a connection is accomplished via: a conventional phone line or other data transmission line, a digital subscriber line (DSL), a T-1 line, a coaxial cable, a fiber optic cable, a wireless or wired routing device, a mobile communications network connection (such as a cellular network or mobile internet network), or any other suitable medium. It should be appreciated that the expansion in the quantity of computing devices and the quantity and speed of internet connections in recent years increases opportunities for players to use a variety of gaming devices to play games from an ever-increasing quantity of remote sites. It should also be appreciated that the enhanced bandwidth of digital wireless communications may render such technology suitable for some or all communications, particularly if such communications are encrypted. Higher data transmission speeds may be useful for enhancing the sophistication and response of the display and interaction with players.
In the above description of various embodiments, various aspects may be illustrated and described herein in any of a number of patentable classes or contexts including any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof. Accordingly, various embodiments described herein may be implemented entirely by hardware, entirely by software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or by combining software and hardware implementation that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module,” “component,” or “system.” Furthermore, various embodiments described herein may take the form of a computer program product including one or more computer readable media having computer readable program code embodied thereon.
Any combination of one or more computer readable media may be used. The computer readable media may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an appropriate optical fiber with a repeater, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Program code embodied on a computer readable signal medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, radio frequency (“RF”), etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.
Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Scala, Smalltalk, Eiffel, JADE, Emerald, C++, C#, VB.NET, Python or the like, conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language, Visual Basic, Fortran 2003, Perl, Common Business Oriented Language (“COBOL”) 2002, PHP: Hypertext Processor (“PHP”), Advanced Business Application Programming (“ABAP”), dynamic programming languages such as Python, Ruby and Groovy, or other programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider) or in a cloud computing environment or offered as a service such as a Software as a Service (Saas).
Various embodiments were described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), devices and computer program products according to various embodiments described herein. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processing circuit of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processing circuit of the computer or other programmable instruction execution apparatus, create a mechanism for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that when executed can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions when stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which when executed, cause a computer to implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable instruction execution apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatuses or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various aspects of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be designated as “/”. Like reference numbers signify like elements throughout the description of the figures.
Many different embodiments have been disclosed herein, in connection with the above description and the drawings. It will be understood that it would be unduly repetitious and obfuscating to literally describe and illustrate every combination and subcombination of these embodiments. Accordingly, all embodiments can be combined in any way and/or combination, and the present specification, including the drawings, shall be construed to constitute a complete written description of all combinations and subcombinations of the embodiments described herein, and of the manner and process of making and using them, and shall support claims to any such combination or subcombination.
