A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains or may contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure in exactly the form it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
Gaming systems that provide players awards in primary or base games are well known. These gaming systems generally require a player to place a wager to activate a play of the primary game. For many of these gaming systems, any award provided to a player for a wagered-on play of a primary game is based on the player obtaining a winning symbol or a winning symbol combination and on an amount of the wager (e.g., the higher the amount of the wager, the higher the award). Winning symbols or winning symbol combinations that are less likely to occur typically result in larger awards being provided when they do occur.
For such known gaming systems, an amount of a wager placed on a primary game by a player may vary. For instance, a gaming system may enable a player to wager a minimum quantity of credits, such as one credit (e.g., in monetary currency, one penny, nickel, dime, quarter, or dollar; in non-monetary currency, one point, credit, coin, token, free play credit, or virtual buck), up to a maximum quantity of credits, such as five credits. The gaming system may enable the player to place this wager a single time or multiple times for a single play of the primary game. For instance, a gaming system configured to operate a slot game may have one or more paylines, and the gaming system may enable a player to place a wager on each of the paylines for a single play of the slot game. Thus, it is known that a gaming system, such as one configured to operate a slot game, may enable players to place wagers of substantially different amounts on each play of a primary game. For example, the amounts of the wagers may range from one credit up to 125 credits (e.g., five credits on each of twenty-five separate paylines). This is also true for other wagering games, such as video draw poker, in which players can place wagers of one or more credits on each hand, and in which multiple hands can be played simultaneously. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that different players play at substantially different wager amounts or levels and substantially different rates of play.
Bonus or secondary games are also known in gaming systems. Such gaming systems usually provide an award to a player for a play of one such bonus game in addition to any awards provided for any plays of any primary games. Bonus games usually do not require an additional wager to be placed by the player to be initiated. Bonus games are typically initiated or triggered upon an occurrence of a designated triggering symbol or designated triggering symbol combination in the primary game. For instance, a gaming system may initiate or trigger a bonus game when a bonus symbol occurs on the payline on the third reel of a three reel slot machine. The gaming systems generally indicates when a bonus game is initiated or triggered through one or more visual and/or audio output devices, such as the reels, lights, speakers, display screens, etc. Part of the enjoyment and excitement of playing certain gaming systems is the initiation or triggering of a bonus game, even before the player knows an amount of a bonus award won via the bonus game.
Various players continually seek out new and different variations to gaming systems. A continuing need thus exists for gaming systems and methods that provide new, exciting, and engaging games.
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a gaming system and method providing a slot game in which, for each play of the slot game, different sets of symbols are randomly associated with different symbol display areas and used to determine an outcome for that play of the slot game. Generally, for each play of the slot game, the gaming system does so by: (a) randomly associating each of a plurality of different sets of symbols with a different one of a plurality of different symbol display areas; (b) for each of the sets of symbols, randomly selecting one of the symbols of that set to determine an outcome for that play of the slot game; and (c) displaying the randomly selected symbols at the associated symbol display areas (i.e., displaying the determined outcome).
More specifically, for a play of a slot game in one embodiment, the gaming system displays a plurality of symbol display areas. For each of the symbol display areas, the gaming system randomly associates one of a plurality of different sets or groups of two or more symbols with that symbol display area. For each of the symbol display areas, the gaming system randomly determines one of the symbols of the set of symbols associated with that symbol display area. For each of the symbol display areas, the gaming system displays the randomly determined symbol of the set of symbols associated with that symbol display area at that symbol display area. The gaming system determines any awards associated with the displayed symbols and displays any determined awards.
Upon an occurrence of a bonus triggering event, the gaming system provides a bonus. For a play of the bonus in this embodiment, the gaming system provides a designated quantity of free plays of the slot game. In this embodiment, the gaming system evaluates the symbols displayed following the first free play and determines how many displayed symbols (if any) match one another. The gaming system designates the symbol having the most matches as a locking symbol for the duration of the bonus. If two symbols have the same quantity of matches, the gaming system designates the higher value symbol as the locking symbol in this embodiment. Whenever a locking symbol is displayed following a free play (including following the first free play), the gaming system locks or holds that locking symbol at the symbol display area at which that locking symbol is displayed for the remaining free plays.
It should thus be appreciated that the gaming system and method of the present disclosure provide a new slot game to increase player enjoyment, entertainment, and excitement.
Additional features and advantages are described herein, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the Figures.
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a gaming system and method providing a slot game in which, for each play of the slot game, different sets of symbols are randomly associated with different symbol display areas and used to determine an outcome for that play of the slot game. Generally, for each play of the slot game, the gaming system does so by: (a) randomly associating each of a plurality of different sets of symbols with a different one of a plurality of different symbol display areas; (b) for each of the sets of symbols, randomly selecting one of the symbols of that set to determine an outcome for that play of the slot game; and (c) displaying the randomly selected symbols at the associated symbol display areas (i.e., displaying the determined outcome). While any credit balances, any wagers, and any awards are displayed as amounts of monetary currency or credits in the embodiments described below, one or more of such credit balances, such wagers, and such awards may be for any suitable non-monetary credits or currency, promotional credits, and/or player tracking points or credits.
In operation of this example embodiment, for a play of a slot game, the gaming system displays a plurality of symbol display areas, as indicated by block 102. For each of the symbol display areas, the gaming system randomly associates one of a plurality of different sets or groups of two or more symbols with that symbol display area, as indicated by block 104. For each of the symbol display areas, the gaming system randomly determines one of the symbols of the set of symbols associated with that symbol display area, as indicated by block 106. For each of the symbol display areas, the gaming system displays the randomly determined symbol of the set of symbols associated with that symbol display area at that symbol display area, as indicated by block 108. The gaming system determines any awards associated with the displayed symbols, as indicated by block 110, and displays any determined awards, as indicated by block 112.
As noted above, each of the objects represents and displays the symbols included in one of the symbol sets associated with the slot game. Turning to
The gaming system displays a plurality of paylines 215a, 215b, 215c, 215d, 215e, 215f, 215g, and 215h, each of which is associated with a different plurality of the object display areas. In this example embodiment: (a) the payline 215a is associated with the object display areas 210a, 210b, and 210c; (b) the payline 215b is associated with the object display areas 210d, 210e, and 210f; and (c) the payline 215c is associated with the object display areas 210g, 210h, and 210i; (d) the payline 215d is associated with the object display areas 210a, 210d, and 210g; (e) the payline 215e is associated with the object display areas 210b, 210e, and 210h; (f) the payline 215f is associated with the object display areas 210c, 210f, and 210i; (g) the payline 215g is associated with the object display areas 210a, 210e, and 210i; and (h) the payline 210h is associated with the object display areas 210g, 210e, and 210c.
The gaming system also displays: (a) a message box 260 in which the gaming system displays a variety of messages or indications before, during, or after play of the slot game; and (b) a plurality of meters including: (i) a credit meter 270 in which the gaming system displays the player's credit balance (in credit or currency form), (ii) a wager or bet meter 280 that displays any wager or bet placed on a play of the slot game (in credit or currency form), and (iii) an award meter 290 that displays any awards won during the play of the slot game (in credit or currency form). While in this illustrated example the gaming system indicates the player's credit balance, any wagers, and any awards in the form of amounts of currency, it should be appreciated that such indications may alternatively or additionally be made in the form of amounts of credits.
Turning to
As illustrated in
For this play of the slot game, the gaming system randomly associates: (a) the object 220b (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220b) with the object display area 210a; (b) the object 220g (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220g) with the object display area 210b; (c) the object 220e (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220e) with the object display area 210c; (d) the object 220f (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220f) with the object display area 210d; (e) the object 220i (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220i) with the object display area 210e; (f) the object 220h (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220h) with the object display area 210f; (g) the object 220d (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220d) with the object display area 210g; (h) the object 220c (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220c) with the object display area 210h; and (i) the object 220a (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the object 220a) with the object display area 210i.
Additionally, for this play of the slot game, the gaming system randomly selects: (a) the Cherry symbol 232e of the object 220b, (b) the Bar symbol 237b of the object 220g, (c) the Bonus symbol 235c of the object 220e, (d) the Bar symbol 236f of the object 220f, (e) the Seven symbol 239a of the object 220i, (f) the Triple Bar symbol 238a of the object 220h, (g) the Bonus symbol 234a of the object 220d, (h) the Bonus symbol 233c of the object 220c, and (i) the Triple Cherry symbol 231d of the object 220a.
Accordingly, as shown in
The gaming system makes an award determination based on the upwardly-facing symbols and a paytable associated with the slot game (not shown). More specifically, the gaming system determines whether any of a plurality of winning symbol combinations included in the paytable are displayed along any of the paylines 215a, 215b, 215c, 215d, 215e, 215f, 215g, and/or 215h. In this example embodiment, the gaming system determines that none of the winning symbol combinations are displayed along any of the paylines and, therefore, not to provide any awards for this play of the slot game. The gaming system also determines whether the bonus triggering event occurred in association with this play of the slot game. Since three Bonus symbols are displayed facing upward in a scatter configuration, the gaming system determines that the bonus triggering event occurred and, therefore, to provide the bonus. The gaming system displays the following message in the message box 260: “SORRY, NO WINNING SYMBOL COMBINATIONS ARE DISPLAYED . . . BUT YOU TRIGGERED THE BONUS! GET READY TO PLAY THE BONUS!”
For a play of the bonus in this example embodiment, the gaming system provides a designated quantity (five in this example embodiment) of free tosses or throws of the bonus objects (i.e., free plays of the slot game). In this example embodiment, the gaming system evaluates the symbols displayed facing upward following the first free toss and determines how many upwardly-facing symbols (if any) match one another. The gaming system designates the symbol having the most matches as a locking symbol for the duration of the bonus. If two symbols have the same quantity of matches, the gaming system designates the higher value symbol as the locking symbol in this example embodiment. In this example embodiment, if the gaming system does not display any matching symbols facing upward following the first free toss, the gaming system designates the displayed symbol having a designated value (such as the highest value) as the locking symbol. Whenever a locking symbol is displayed following a free toss (including following the first free toss), the gaming system locks or holds the bonus object displaying that locking symbol at the object display area at which that bonus object is displayed for the remaining free tosses such that that bonus object displays that locking symbol facing upward for the remaining free tosses.
For instance, if, following the first free toss, two Jackpot symbols are displayed facing upward, three Seven symbols are displayed facing upward, two Double Bar symbols are displayed facing upward, one Triple Cherry symbol is displayed facing upward, and one Cherry symbol is displayed facing upward, the gaming system designates the Seven symbol as the locking symbol because the Seven symbol is the upwardly-facing symbol with the most matches. The gaming system locks the bonus objects displaying the upwardly-facing Seven symbols at the object display areas at which those bonus objects are displayed for the remaining free tosses such that those bonus objects display the Seven symbols facing upward for the remaining free tosses. Put differently, for at least the second free toss, the gaming system tosses the bonus objects that displayed the Jackpot symbols, the Double Bar symbols, the Triple Cherry symbol, and the Cherry symbol facing upward (i.e., that display the non-locking symbols facing upward), and does not toss the bonus objects that displayed the Seven symbols facing upward.
In this example embodiment, if a designated quantity of the bonus objects displays the Jackpot symbol facing upward as a result of one of the free tosses, the gaming system determines a jackpot award (such as a progressive award or one of a plurality of progressive awards of a multi-level progressive (MLP)) and displays the determined jackpot award. In this example embodiment, the designated quantity includes all of the bonus objects, though it should be appreciated that any other suitable designated quantity may be employed. It should be appreciated that the gaming system may provide any other suitable award and/or additional award opportunity if the designated quantity of the bonus objects displays the Jackpot symbol facing upward as a result of one of the free tosses.
As noted above, each of the bonus objects represents and displays the symbols included in one of the bonus symbol sets associated with the slot game in the bonus. Turning to
The gaming system also displays: (a) a message box 360 (described above); and (b) a plurality of meters including: (i) a total bonus award meter 390 that displays any awards won during the play of the bonus (in credit or currency form); and (ii) a free tosses remaining meter that displays the number of free tosses to be provided to the player.
Turning to
As illustrated in
For the first free toss, the gaming system randomly associates: (a) the bonus object 320b (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320b) with the object display area 310a; (b) the bonus object 320i (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320i) with the object display area 310b; (c) the bonus object 320h (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320h) with the object display area 310c; (d) the bonus object 320g (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320g) with the object display area 310d; (e) the bonus object 320d (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320d) with the object display area 310e; (f) the bonus object 320f (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320f) with the object display area 310f; (g) the bonus object 320c (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320c) with the object display area 310g; (h) the bonus object 320a (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320a) with the object display area 310h; and (i) the bonus object 320e (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320e) with the object display area 310i.
Additionally, for the first free toss, the gaming system randomly selects: (a) the Jackpot symbol 332a of the bonus object 320b, (b) the Cherry symbol 339b of the bonus object 320i, (c) the Cherry symbol 338d of the object 320h, (d) the Seven symbol 337d of the bonus object 320g, (e) the Seven symbol 334f of the bonus object 320f, (f) the Bar symbol 336b of the bonus object 320f, (g) the Jackpot symbol 333a of the bonus object 320c, (h) the Jackpot symbol 331a of the bonus object 320a, and (i) the Double Bar symbol 335d of the bonus object 320c.
Accordingly, as shown in
The gaming system makes an award determination based on the displayed (i.e., upwardly-facing) symbols and a paytable associated with the slot game for the bonus (not shown). More specifically, the gaming system determines whether any of a plurality of winning symbol combinations included in the paytable are displayed along any of the paylines 315a, 315b, 315c, 315d, 315e, 315f, 315g, and/or 315h. In this example embodiment, the gaming system determines that none of the winning symbol combinations are displayed along any of the paylines and, therefore, not to provide any awards for the first free toss.
As noted above, since this is the first free toss, the gaming system evaluates the displayed symbols (i.e., the outcome of the first free toss) to determine the locking symbol for the bonus. In this example embodiment, the gaming system determines that: (a) three matching Jackpot symbols are displayed facing upward, (b) two matching Seven symbols are displayed facing upward, and (c) two matching Cherry symbols are displayed facing upward. Since the Jackpot symbol has the most matches, the gaming system designates the Jackpot symbol as the locking symbol for the bonus. Thus, whenever a bonus object displays the Jackpot symbol facing upward, the gaming system locks or holds the bonus object displaying the Jackpot symbol at the object display area at which that bonus object is displayed for the remaining free tosses such that that bonus object displays the Jackpot symbol facing upward for the remaining free tosses.
Accordingly, following the first free toss, the gaming system locks: (a) the bonus object 320b at the object display area 310a such that the Jackpot symbol 332a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (b) the bonus object 320c at the object display area 310g such that the Jackpot symbol 333a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, and (c) the bonus object 320a at the object display area 310h such that the Jackpot symbol 331a faces upward for the remaining free tosses. The gaming system updates the free tosses remaining meter 395 to indicate that four free tosses remain. The gaming system displays the following message in the message box 360: “SORRY, NO WINNING SYMBOL COMBINATIONS ARE DISPLAYED. THE JACKPOT SYMBOL IS THE LOCKING SYMBOL. ALL DISPLAYED JACKPOT SYMBOLS WILL BE LOCKED FOR THE REMAINING FREE TOSSES!”
As illustrated in
For the second free toss, the gaming system randomly associates: (a) the bonus object 320d (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320d) with the object display area 310b; (b) the bonus object 320f (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320f) with the object display area 310c; (c) the bonus object 320g (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320g) with the object display area 310d; (d) the bonus object 320e (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320e) with the object display area 310e; (e) the bonus object 320h (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320h) with the object display area 310f; and (f) the bonus object 320i (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320i) with the object display area 310i.
Additionally, for the second free toss, the gaming system randomly selects: (a) the Bar symbol 334d of the bonus object 320d, (b) the Double Bar symbol 336d of the bonus object 320f, (c) the Jackpot symbol 337a of the bonus object 320g, (d) the Jackpot symbol 335a of the bonus object 320e, (e) the Cherry symbol 338d of the bonus object 320h, and (f) the Cherry symbol 339b of the bonus object 320i.
Accordingly, as shown in
The gaming system makes an award determination based on the displayed upwardly-facing symbols and the paytable associated with the slot game for the bonus. More specifically, the gaming system determines whether any of the plurality of winning symbol combinations included in the paytable are displayed along any of the paylines 315a, 315b, 315c, 315d, 315e, 315f, 315g, and/or 315h. In this example embodiment, the gaming system determines that none of the winning symbol combinations are displayed along any of the paylines and, therefore, not to provide any awards for the second free toss.
As noted above, the Jackpot symbol is the locking symbol. Accordingly, following the second free toss, the gaming system: (a) continues to lock: (i) the bonus object 320b at the object display area 310a such that the Jackpot symbol 332a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (ii) the bonus object 320c at the object display area 310g such that the Jackpot symbol 333a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, and (iii) the bonus object 320a at the object display area 310h such that the Jackpot symbol 331a faces upward for the remaining free tosses; and (b) locks: (i) the bonus object 320g at the object display area 310d such that the Jackpot symbol 337a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, and (ii) the bonus object 320e at the object display area 310e such that the Jackpot symbol 335a faces upward for the remaining free tosses. The gaming system updates the free tosses remaining meter 395 to indicate that three free tosses remain. The gaming system displays the following message in the message box 360: “SORRY, NO WINNING SYMBOL COMBINATIONS ARE DISPLAYED, BUT TWO MORE JACKPOT SYMBOLS ARE LOCKED!”
As illustrated in
For the third free toss, the gaming system randomly associates: (a) the bonus object 320i (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320i) with the object display area 310b; (b) the bonus object 320f (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320f) with the object display area 310c; (c) the bonus object 320d (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320d) with the object display area 310f; and (f) the bonus object 320h (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320h) with the object display area 310i.
Additionally, for the third free toss, the gaming system randomly selects: (a) the Triple Bar symbol 339f of the bonus object 320i, (b) the Bar symbol 336b of the bonus object 320f, (c) the Jackpot symbol 334a of the bonus object 320d, and (d) the Jackpot symbol 338a of the bonus object 320h.
Accordingly, as shown in
The gaming system makes an award determination based on the displayed upwardly-facing symbols and the paytable associated with the slot game for the bonus. More specifically, the gaming system determines whether any of the plurality of winning symbol combinations included in the paytable are displayed along any of the paylines 315a, 315b, 315c, 315d, 315e, 315f, 315g, and/or 315h. In this example embodiment, the gaming system determines that none of the winning symbol combinations are displayed along any of the paylines and, therefore, not to provide any awards for the third free toss.
As noted above, the Jackpot symbol is the locking symbol. Accordingly, following the third free toss, the gaming system: (a) continues to lock: (i) the bonus object 320b at the object display area 310a such that the Jackpot symbol 332a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (ii) the bonus object 320c at the object display area 310g such that the Jackpot symbol 333a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (iii) the bonus object 320a at the object display area 310h such that the Jackpot symbol 331a faces upward for the remaining free tosses; (iv) the bonus object 320g at the object display area 310d such that the Jackpot symbol 337a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, and (v) the bonus object 320e at the object display area 310e such that the Jackpot symbol 335a faces upward for the remaining free tosses; and (b) locks: (i) the bonus object 320d at the object display area 310f such that the Jackpot symbol 334a faces upward for the remaining free tosses or throes, and (ii) the bonus object 320h at the object display area 310i such that the Jackpot symbol 338a faces upward for the remaining free tosses. The gaming system updates the free tosses remaining meter 395 to indicate that two free tosses remain. The gaming system displays the following message in the message box 360: “SORRY, NO WINNING SYMBOL COMBINATIONS ARE DISPLAYED, BUT TWO MORE JACKPOT SYMBOLS ARE LOCKED!”
As illustrated in
For the fourth free toss, the gaming system randomly associates: (a) the bonus object 320f (and, therefore, the symbol set associated with the bonus object 320f) with the object display area 310b; and (b) the bonus object 320i (and, therefore, the bonus symbol set associated with the bonus object 320i) with the object display area 310c.
Additionally, for the fourth free toss, the gaming system randomly selects: (a) the Bar symbol 336b of the bonus object 320f, and (b) the Jackpot symbol 339a of the bonus object 320i.
Accordingly, as shown in
The gaming system makes an award determination based on the displayed upwardly-facing symbols and the paytable associated with the slot game for the bonus. More specifically, the gaming system determines whether any of the plurality of winning symbol combinations included in the paytable are displayed along any of the paylines 315a, 315b, 315c, 315d, 315e, 315f, 315g, and/or 315h. In this example embodiment, the gaming system determines that none of the winning symbol combinations are displayed along any of the paylines and, therefore, not to provide any awards for the fourth free toss.
As noted above, the Jackpot symbol is the locking symbol. Accordingly, following the third free toss, the gaming system: (a) continues to lock: (i) the bonus object 320b at the object display area 310a such that the Jackpot symbol 332a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (ii) the bonus object 320c at the object display area 310g such that the Jackpot symbol 333a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (iii) the bonus object 320a at the object display area 310h such that the Jackpot symbol 331a faces upward for the remaining free tosses; (iv) the bonus object 320g at the object display area 310d such that the Jackpot symbol 337a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (v) the bonus object 320e at the object display area 310e such that the Jackpot symbol 335a faces upward for the remaining free tosses, (vi) the bonus object 320d at the object display area 310f such that the Jackpot symbol 334a faces upward for the remaining free tosses or throes, and (vii) the bonus object 320h at the object display area 310i such that the Jackpot symbol 338a faces upward for the remaining free tosses; and (b) locks the bonus object 320i at the object display area 310c such that the Jackpot symbol 339a faces upward for the remaining free tosses. The gaming system updates the free tosses remaining meter 395 to indicate that one free toss remains. The gaming system displays the following message in the message box 360: “SORRY, NO WINNING SYMBOL COMBINATIONS ARE DISPLAYED, BUT ONE MORE JACKPOT SYMBOL IS LOCKED!”
As illustrated in
For the fifth free toss, the gaming system randomly selects the Jackpot symbol 336a of the bonus object 320f. Accordingly, as shown in
The gaming system makes an award determination based on the displayed upwardly-facing symbols and the paytable associated with the slot game for the bonus. More specifically, the gaming system determines whether any of the plurality of winning symbol combinations included in the paytable are displayed along the paylines 315a, 315b, 315c, 315d, 315e, 315f, 315g, and/or 315h. The gaming system determines that none of the wining symbol combinations are displayed along any of the paylines. However, the gaming system determines to provide the player the jackpot award of 100,000 credits because each of the bonus objects displays the Jackpot symbol. The gaming system updates the free tosses remaining meter 395 to indicate that no free tosses remain. The gaming system displays the 100,000 credit award in the total bonus award meter 390 and displays the following message in the message box 360: “ALL JACKPOT SYMBOLS ARE DISPLAYED!CONGRATULATIONS, YOU WIN THE JACKPOT OF 100,000 CREDITS!” Since the gaming system has provided each of the free tosses, the gaming system ends the bonus and returns to primary game play.
In other embodiments, if the gaming system does not display any matching symbols facing upward following the first free toss, the gaming system does not determine a locking symbol and repeats the locking symbol determination following each subsequent free toss until the gaming system determines a locking symbol or until the gaming system has provided all of the free tosses. In further embodiments, if the gaming system does not display any matching symbols facing upward following the first free toss, the gaming system does not determine a locking symbol for the bonus. In certain embodiments, The gaming system designates the symbol having the most matches as the locking symbol for the duration of the bonus if at least a designated quantity of the matching symbols are displayed. In various embodiments, the gaming system may designate one of a plurality of designated symbols as the locking symbol, and may not designate any non-designated symbols as the locking symbol.
While the gaming system determines any awards via a directional payline-based award evaluation in the example embodiments described herein, it should be appreciated that the gaming system may employ any suitable type of award evaluation instead of (or in addition to) a directional payline-based award evaluation, such as (but not limited to) a scatter pay award evaluation, a ways-to-win award evaluation (described below), an adjacent pays award evaluation, and/or a different directional payline-based award evaluation.
In certain embodiments, the slot game includes a re-spin or re-toss feature that, when activated, causes the gaming system to re-toss one (or more) of the objects such that the gaming system performs another random determination of one of the symbols of the symbol set associated with the re-tossed object. In one example embodiment, after determining any awards associated with the displayed outcome, the gaming system: (a) enables the player to select one of the objects, (b) displays the selected object being tossed from its object display area into the air, (c) randomly selects one of the symbols of the symbol set associated with the selected object, (d) displays the selected object at the object display area such that the selected symbol faces upward, and (e) determines and displays any awards associated with the displayed upwardly-facing symbols. It should thus be appreciated that, in this example embodiment, the gaming system makes two separate award determinations, one associated with the initially-displayed outcome and another associated with the (potentially) modified outcome after the re-spin or re-toss feature is employed.
In another example embodiment, before determining any awards associated with the displayed outcome, the gaming system: (a) enables the player to select one of the objects, (b) displays the selected object being tossed from its object display area into the air, (c) randomly selects one of the symbols of the symbol set associated with the selected object, (d) displays the selected object at the object display area such that the selected symbol faces upward, and (e) determines and displays any awards associated with the displayed upwardly-facing symbols. It should thus be appreciated that, in this example embodiment, the gaming system enables the player to (potentially) modify the displayed outcome using the re-spin or re-toss feature before any awards are provided.
In the above-described example embodiments, the ratio of symbol sets to symbol display areas is 1-to-1. Put differently, in the above-described example embodiments, each symbol set is employed and associated with one of the symbol display areas for each play of the slot game. In other embodiments, however, the ratio of symbol sets to symbol display areas is X-to-1, where X is greater than 1. In other words, in these example embodiments, fewer than all of the symbol sets are employed and associated with the symbol display areas for each play of the slot game. For instance, in one such example embodiment, the slot game is associated with eighteen different symbol sets and nine symbol display areas. In this example embodiment, for a play of the slot game, the gaming system: (a) randomly selects nine of the eighteen symbol sets to employ for the play of the slot game; (b) randomly associates each of the selected symbol sets with a different one of nine symbol display areas; and (c) for each of the selected symbol sets, the gaming system randomly selects one of the symbols of that symbol set and displays the randomly selected symbol at the associated symbol display area. Thus, in this example embodiment, the unselected nine of the eighteen symbol sets are not employed for the play of the slot game. In various embodiments, the symbol sets are each represented by individual, independent reels. In these embodiments, for a play of the slot game, the gaming system: (a) randomly associates different independent reels with different symbol display areas; and (b) for each independent reel, randomly selects one of the symbols on that independent reel and displays the selected symbol at the associated symbol display area.
In certain embodiments, the gaming system evaluates the displayed symbols that are not facing upward, such as to determine whether to trigger the bonus.
It should be appreciated that, in various embodiments, for a play of the slot game, for each symbol set, the gaming system displays one of the symbols of that symbol set at the symbol display area with which that symbol set is associated and does not display any of the symbols of that symbol set at any of the symbol display areas with which that symbol set is not associated.
It should be appreciated that:
may be: (1) predetermined; (2) randomly determined; (3) randomly determined based on one or more weighted percentages (such as according to a weighted table); (4) determined based on a generated symbol or symbol combination; (5) determined independent of a generated symbol or symbol combination; (6) determined based on a random determination by a central controller (described below); (7) determined independent of a random determination by the central controller; (8) determined based on a random determination at an electronic gaming machine (EGM) configured to operate the slot game (described below); (9) determined independent of a random determination at the EGM; (10) determined based on at least one play of at least one game; (11) determined independent of at least one play of at least one game; (12) determined based on a player's selection; (13) determined independent of a player's selection; (14) determined based on one or more side wagers placed; (15) determined independent of one or more side wagers placed; (16) determined based on the player's primary game wager or wager level; (17) determined independent of the player's primary game wager or wager level; (18) determined based on time (such as the time of day); (19) determined independent of time (such as the time of day); (20) determined based on an amount of coin-in accumulated in one or more pools; (21) determined independent of an amount of coin-in accumulated in one or more pools; (22) determined based on a status of the player (i.e., a player tracking status); (23) determined independent of a status of the player (i.e., a player tracking status); (24) determined based on one or more other determinations disclosed herein; (25) determined independent of any other determination disclosed herein; and/or (26) determined in any other suitable manner or based on or independent of any other suitable factor(s).
It should be appreciated that the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with or in conjunction with one or more of a variety of different types of gaming systems, such as, but not limited to, those described below.
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 EGMs; and/or (c) one or more personal gaming devices, such as desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers or computing devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), mobile telephones such as smart phones, and other mobile computing devices.
Thus, in various embodiments, the gaming system of the present disclosure includes: (a) one or more EGMs in combination with one or more central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts; (b) one or more personal gaming devices in combination with one or more central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts; (c) one or more personal gaming devices in combination with one or more EGMs; (d) one or more personal gaming devices, one or more EGMs, and one or more central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts in combination with one another; (e) a single EGM; (f) a plurality of EGMs in combination with one another; (g) a single personal gaming device; (h) a plurality of personal gaming devices in combination with one another; (i) a single central server, central controller, or remote host; and/or (j) a plurality of central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts in combination with one another.
For brevity and clarity, each EGM and each personal gaming device of the present disclosure is collectively referred to herein as an “EGM.” Additionally, for brevity and clarity, unless specifically stated otherwise, “EGM” as used herein represents one EGM or a plurality of EGMs, and “central server, central controller, or remote host” as used herein represents one central server, central controller, or remote host or a plurality of central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts.
As noted above, in various embodiments, the gaming system includes an EGM in combination with a central server, central controller, or remote host. In such embodiments, the EGM is configured to communicate with the central server, central controller, or remote host through a data network or remote communication link. In certain such embodiments, the EGM is configured to communicate with another EGM through the same data network or remote communication link or through a different data network or remote communication link. For example, the gaming system illustrated in
In certain embodiments in which the gaming system includes an EGM in combination with a central server, central controller, or remote host, the central server, central controller, or remote host is any suitable computing device (such as a server) that includes at least one processor and at least one memory device or storage device. As further described below, the EGM includes at least one EGM processor configured to transmit and receive data or signals representing events, messages, commands, or any other suitable information between the EGM and the central server, central controller, or remote host. The at least one processor of that EGM is configured to execute the events, messages, or commands represented by such data or signals in conjunction with the operation of the EGM. Moreover, the at least one processor of the central server, central controller, or remote host is configured to transmit and receive data or signals representing events, messages, commands, or any other suitable information between the central server, central controller, or remote host and the EGM. The at least one processor of the central server, central controller, or remote host is configured to execute the events, messages, or commands represented by such data or signals in conjunction with the operation of the central server, central controller, or remote host. It should be appreciated that one, more, or each of the functions of the central server, central controller, or remote host may be performed by the at least one processor of the EGM. It should be further appreciated that one, more, or each of the functions of the at least one processor of the EGM may be performed by the at least one processor of the central server, central controller, or remote host.
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 EGM 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 EGM, and the EGM 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 EGM are communicated from the central server, central controller, or remote host to the EGM and are stored in at least one memory device of the EGM. In such “thick client” embodiments, the at least one processor of the EGM executes the computerized instructions to control any games (or other suitable interfaces) displayed by the EGM.
In various embodiments in which the gaming system includes a plurality of EGMs, one or more of the EGMs are thin client EGMs and one or more of the EGMs are thick client EGMs. In other embodiments in which the gaming system includes one or more EGMs, certain functions of one or more of the EGMs are implemented in a thin client environment, and certain other functions of one or more of the EGMs are implemented in a thick client environment. In one such embodiment in which the gaming system includes an EGM and a central server, central controller, or remote host, computerized instructions for controlling any primary or base games displayed by the EGM are communicated from the central server, central controller, or remote host to the EGM in a thick client configuration, and computerized instructions for controlling any secondary or bonus games or other functions displayed by the EGM are executed by the central server, central controller, or remote host in a thin client configuration.
In certain embodiments in which the gaming system includes: (a) an EGM configured to communicate with a central server, central controller, or remote host through a data network; and/or (b) a plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another through a data network, the data network is a local area network (LAN) in which the EGMs are located substantially proximate to one another and/or the central server, central controller, or remote host. In one example, the EGMs and the central server, central controller, or remote host are located in a gaming establishment or a portion of a gaming establishment.
In other embodiments in which the gaming system includes: (a) an EGM configured to communicate with a central server, central controller, or remote host through a data network; and/or (b) a plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another through a data network, the data network is a wide area network (WAN) in which one or more of the EGMs are not necessarily located substantially proximate to another one of the EGMs and/or the central server, central controller, or remote host. For example, one or more of the EGMs are located: (a) in an area of a gaming establishment different from an area of the gaming establishment in which the central server, central controller, or remote host is located; or (b) in a gaming establishment different from the gaming establishment in which the central server, central controller, or remote host is located. In another example, the central server, central controller, or remote host is not located within a gaming establishment in which the EGMs are located. It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments in which the data network is a WAN, the gaming system includes a central server, central controller, or remote host and an EGM each located in a different gaming establishment in a same geographic area, such as a same city or a same state. It should be appreciated that gaming systems in which the data network is a WAN are substantially identical to gaming systems in which the data network is a LAN, though the quantity of EGMs in such gaming systems may vary relative to one another.
In further embodiments in which the gaming system includes: (a) an EGM configured to communicate with a central server, central controller, or remote host through a data network; and/or (b) a plurality of EGMs 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 EGM 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 EGM, 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 EGM.
It should be appreciated that the central server, central controller, or remote host and the EGM 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 EGMs 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 various embodiments, an EGM includes at least one processor configured to operate with at least one memory device, at least one input device, and at least one output device. The at least one processor may be any suitable processing device or set of processing devices, such as a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable integrated circuit, or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).
As generally noted above, the at least one processor of the EGM is configured to communicate with, configured to access, and configured to exchange signals with at least one memory device or data storage device. In various embodiments, the at least one memory device of the EGM includes random access memory (RAM), which can include non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), and other forms as commonly understood in the gaming industry. In other embodiments, the at least one memory device includes read only memory (ROM). In certain embodiments, the at least one memory device of the EGM includes flash memory and/or EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory). The example EGM illustrated in
In certain embodiments, as generally described above, the at least one memory device of the EGM stores program code and instructions executable by the at least one processor of the EGM to control the EGM. The at least one memory device of the EGM also stores other operating data, such as image data, event data, input data, random number generators (RNGs) or pseudo-RNGs, paytable data or information, and/or applicable game rules that relate to the play of one or more games on the EGM (such as primary or base games and/or secondary or bonus games as described below). In various embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or the operating data described above is stored in at least one detachable or removable memory device including, but not limited to, a cartridge, a disk, a CD ROM, a DVD, a USB memory device, or any other suitable non-transitory computer readable medium. In certain such embodiments, an operator (such as a gaming establishment operator) and/or a player uses such a removable memory device in an EGM to implement at least part of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or the operating data is downloaded to the at least one memory device of the EGM through any suitable data network described above (such as an internet or intranet).
In various embodiments, the EGM includes one or more input devices. The input devices may include any suitable device that enables an input signal to be produced and received by the at least one processor of the EGM. The example EGM illustrated in
In one embodiment, the EGM includes a payment device configured to enable the EGM to be funded via an electronic funds transfer, such as a transfer of funds from a bank account. In another embodiment, the EGM includes a payment device configured to communicate with a mobile device of a player, such as a cell phone, a radio frequency identification tag, or any other suitable wired or wireless device, to retrieve relevant information associated with that player to fund the EGM. It should be appreciated that when the EGM is funded, the at least one processor determines the amount of funds entered and displays the corresponding amount on a credit display or any other suitable display as described below.
In various embodiments, one or more input devices of the EGM are one or more game play activation devices that are each used to initiate a play of a game on the EGM or a sequence of events associated with the EGM following appropriate funding of the EGM. The example EGMs illustrated in
In certain embodiments, one or more input devices of the EGM are one or more wagering or betting devices. One such wagering or betting device is as a maximum wagering or betting device that, when utilized, causes a maximum wager to be placed. Another such wagering or betting device is a repeat the bet device that, when utilized, causes the previously-placed wager to be placed. A further such wagering or betting device is a bet one device. A bet is placed upon utilization of the bet one device. The bet is increased by one credit each time the bet one device is utilized. Upon the utilization of the bet one device, 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 other embodiments, one input device of the EGM is a cash out device. The cash out device 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 (as described below). The example EGMs illustrated in
In certain embodiments, one input device of the EGM is a touch-screen coupled to a touch-screen controller or other touch-sensitive display overlay to enable interaction with any images displayed on a display device (as described below). One such input device is a conventional touch-screen button panel. The touch-screen and the touch-screen controller are connected to a video controller. In these embodiments, signals are input to the EGM by touching the touch screen at the appropriate locations.
In various embodiments, one input device of the EGM is a sensor, such as a camera, in communication with the at least one processor of the EGM (and controlled by the at least one processor of the EGM in some embodiments) and configured to acquire an image or a video of a player using the EGM and/or an image or a video of an area surrounding the EGM.
In embodiments including a player tracking system, as further described below, one input device of the EGM is a card reader in communication with the at least one processor of the EGM. The example EGMs illustrated in
In various embodiments, the EGM includes one or more output devices. The example EGM illustrated in
In various embodiments, the display devices include, without limitation: a monitor, a television display, a plasma display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a display based on light emitting diodes (LEDs), a display based on a plurality of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), a display based on polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs), a display based on a plurality of surface-conduction electron-emitters (SEDs), a display including a projected and/or reflected image, or any other suitable electronic device or display mechanism. In certain embodiments, as described above, the display device includes a touch-screen with an associated touch-screen controller. It should be appreciated that the display devices may be of any suitable sizes, shapes, and configurations.
The display devices of the EGM are configured to display one or more game and/or non-game images, symbols, and indicia. In certain embodiments, the display devices of the EGM 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 of the EGM are configured to display one or more video reels, one or more video wheels, and/or one or more video dice. In other embodiments, certain of the displayed images, symbols, and indicia are in mechanical form. That is, in these embodiments, the display device 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.
In various embodiments, one output device of the EGM is a payout device. In these embodiments, when the cash out device is utilized as described above, the payout device causes a payout to be provided to the player. In one embodiment, the payout device is one or more of: (a) a ticket generator configured to generate and provide a ticket or credit slip representing a payout, wherein the ticket or credit slip may be redeemed via a cashier, a kiosk, or other suitable redemption system; (b) a note generator configured to provide paper currency; (c) a coin generator configured to provide coins or tokens in a coin payout tray; and (d) any suitable combination thereof. The example EGMs illustrated in
In certain embodiments, one output device of the EGM is a sound generating device controlled by one or more sound cards. In one such embodiment, the sound generating device includes one or more speakers or other sound generating hardware and/or software for generating sounds, such as by playing music for any games or by playing music for other modes of the EGM, such as an attract mode. The example EGMs illustrated in
In various embodiments, the EGM includes a plurality of communication ports configured to enable the at least one processor of the EGM to communicate with and to operate with external peripherals, such as: 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, SCSI ports, solenoids, speakers, thumbsticks, ticket readers, touch screens, trackballs, touchpads, wheels, and wireless communication devices. At least U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0254014 describes a variety of EGMs including one or more communication ports that enable the EGMs to communicate and operate with one or more external peripherals.
As generally described above, in certain embodiments, such as the example EGMs illustrated in
It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the EGM is a device that has obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission, and in other embodiments, the EGM is a device that has not obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission.
As explained above, for brevity and clarity, both the EGMs and the personal gaming devices of the present disclosure are collectively referred to herein as “EGMs.” Accordingly, it should be appreciated that certain of the example EGMs described above include certain elements that may not be included in all EGMs. For example, the payment device of a personal gaming device such as a mobile telephone may not include a coin acceptor, while in certain instances the payment device of an EGM located in a gaming establishment may include a coin acceptor.
In various embodiments, an EGM may be implemented in one of a variety of different configurations. In various embodiments, the EGM may be implemented as one of: (a) a dedicated EGM wherein computerized game programs executable by the EGM for controlling any primary or base games (referred to herein as “primary games”) and/or any secondary or bonus games or other functions (referred to herein as “secondary games”) displayed by the EGM are provided with the EGM prior to delivery to a gaming establishment or prior to being provided to a player; and (b) a changeable EGM wherein computerized game programs executable by the EGM for controlling any primary games and/or secondary games displayed by the EGM are downloadable to the EGM through a data network or remote communication link after the EGM is physically located in a gaming establishment or after the EGM is provided to a player.
As generally explained above, in various embodiments in which the gaming system includes a central server, central controller, or remote host and a changeable EGM, the at least one memory device of the central server, central controller, or remote host stores different game programs and instructions executable by the at least one processor of the changeable EGM to control one or more primary games and/or secondary games displayed by the changeable EGM. More specifically, each such executable game program represents a different game or a different type of game that the at least one changeable EGM is configured to operate. In one example, certain of the game programs are executable by the changeable EGM to operate games having the same or substantially the same game play but different paytables. In different embodiments, each executable game program is associated with a primary game, a secondary game, or both. In certain embodiments, an executable game program is executable by the at least one processor of the at least one changeable EGM as a secondary game to be played simultaneously with a play of a primary game (which may be downloaded to or otherwise stored on the at least one changeable EGM), or vice versa.
In operation of such embodiments, the central server, central controller, or remote host is configured to communicate one or more of the stored executable game programs to the at least one processor of the changeable EGM. In different embodiments, a stored executable game program is communicated or delivered to the at least one processor of the changeable EGM by: (a) embedding the executable game program in a device or a component (such as a microchip to be inserted into the changeable EGM); (b) writing the executable game program onto a disc or other media; or (c) uploading or streaming the executable game program over a data network (such as a dedicated data network). After the executable game program is communicated from the central server, central controller, or remote host to the changeable EGM, the at least one processor of the changeable EGM executes the executable game program to enable the primary game and/or the secondary game associated with that executable game program to be played using the display device(s) and/or the input device(s) of the changeable EGM. That is, when an executable game program is communicated to the at least one processor of the changeable EGM, the at least one processor of the changeable EGM changes the game or the type of game that may be played using the changeable EGM.
In certain embodiments, the gaming system randomly determines any game outcome(s) (such as a win outcome) and/or award(s) (such as a quantity of credits to award for the win outcome) for a play of a primary game and/or a play of a secondary game based on probability data. In certain such embodiments, this random determination is provided through utilization of an RNG, such as a true RNG or a pseudo RNG, or any other suitable randomization process. In one such embodiment, each game outcome or award is associated with a probability, and the gaming system generates the game outcome(s) and/or the award(s) to be provided based on the associated probabilities. In these embodiments, since the gaming system generates game outcomes and/or awards randomly or based on one or more probability calculations, there is no certainty that the gaming system will ever provide any specific game outcome and/or award.
In certain embodiments, the gaming system maintains one or more predetermined pools or sets of predetermined game outcomes and/or awards. In certain such embodiments, upon generation or receipt of a game outcome and/or award request, the gaming system independently selects one of the predetermined game outcomes and/or awards from the one or more pools or sets. The gaming system flags or marks the selected game outcome and/or award as used. Once a game outcome or an award is flagged as used, it is prevented from further selection from its respective pool or set; that is, the gaming system does not select that game outcome or award upon another game outcome and/or award request. The gaming system provides the selected game outcome and/or award. At least U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,470,183; 7,563,163; and 7,833,092 and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2005/0148382, 2006/0094509, and 2009/0181743 describe various examples of this type of award determination.
In certain embodiments, the gaming system determines a predetermined game outcome and/or award based on the results of a bingo, keno, or lottery game. In certain such embodiments, the gaming system utilizes one or more bingo, keno, or lottery games to determine the predetermined game outcome and/or award provided for a primary game and/or a secondary game. The gaming system is provided or associated with a bingo card. Each bingo card consists of a matrix or array of elements, wherein each element is designated with separate indicia. After a bingo card is provided, the gaming system randomly selects or draws a plurality of the elements. As each element is selected, a determination is made as to whether the selected element is present on the bingo card. If the selected element is present on the bingo card, that selected element on the provided bingo card is marked or flagged. This process of selecting elements and marking any selected elements on the provided bingo cards continues until one or more predetermined patterns are marked on one or more of the provided bingo cards. After one or more predetermined patterns are marked on one or more of the provided bingo cards, game outcome and/or award is determined based, at least in part, on the selected elements on the provided bingo cards. At least U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,753,774; 7,731,581; 7,955,170; and 8,070,579 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0028201 describe various examples of this type of award determination.
In certain embodiments in which the gaming system includes a central server, central controller, or remote host and an EGM, the EGM is configured to communicate with the central server, central controller, or remote host for monitoring purposes only. In such embodiments, the EGM determines the game outcome(s) and/or award(s) to be provided in any of the manners described above, and the central server, central controller, or remote host monitors the activities and events occurring on the EGM. In one such embodiment, the gaming system includes a real-time or online accounting and gaming information system configured to communicate with the central server, central controller, or remote host. In this embodiment, the accounting and gaming information system includes: (a) a player database for storing player profiles, (b) a player tracking module for tracking players (as described below), and (c) a credit system for providing automated transactions. At least U.S. Pat. No. 6,913,534 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0281541 describe various examples of such accounting systems.
As noted above, in various embodiments, the gaming system includes one or more executable game programs executable by at least one processor of the gaming system to provide one or more primary games and one or more secondary games. The primary game(s) and the secondary game(s) may comprise any suitable games and/or wagering games, such as, but not limited to: electro-mechanical or video slot or spinning reel type games; video card games such as video draw poker, multi-hand video draw poker, other video poker games, video blackjack games, and video baccarat games; video keno games; video bingo games; and video selection games.
In certain embodiments in which the primary game is a slot or spinning reel type game, the gaming system includes one or more reels in either an electromechanical form with mechanical rotating reels or in a video form with simulated reels and movement thereof. Each reel displays a plurality of indicia or symbols, such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars, or other images that typically correspond to a theme associated with the gaming system. In certain such embodiments, the gaming system includes one or more paylines associated with the reels. The example EGM shown in
In various embodiments, one or more of the paylines is horizontal, vertical, circular, diagonal, angled, or any suitable combination thereof. In other embodiments, each of one or more of the paylines is associated with a plurality of adjacent symbol display areas on a requisite number of adjacent reels. In one such embodiment, one or more paylines are formed between at least two symbol display areas that are adjacent to each other by either sharing a common side or sharing a common corner (i.e., such paylines are connected paylines). The gaming system enables a wager to be placed on one or more of such paylines to activate such paylines. In other embodiments in which one or more paylines are formed between at least two adjacent symbol display areas, the gaming system enables a wager to be placed on a plurality of symbol display areas, which activates those symbol display areas.
In various embodiments, the gaming system provides one or more awards after a spin of the reels when specified types and/or configurations of the indicia or symbols on the reels occur on an active payline or otherwise occur in a winning pattern, occur on the requisite number of adjacent reels, and/or occur in a scatter pay arrangement.
In certain embodiments, the gaming system employs a ways to win award determination. In these embodiments, any outcome to be provided is determined based on a number of associated symbols that are generated in active symbol display areas on the requisite number of adjacent reels (i.e., not on paylines passing through any displayed winning symbol combinations). If a winning symbol combination is generated on the reels, one award for that occurrence of the generated winning symbol combination is provided. At least U.S. Pat. No. 8,012,011 and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2008/0108408 and 2008/0132320 describe various examples of ways to win award determinations.
In various embodiments, the gaming system includes a progressive award. Typically, a progressive award includes an initial amount and an additional amount funded through a portion of each wager placed to initiate a play of a primary game. When one or more triggering events occurs, the gaming system provides at least a portion of the progressive award. After the gaming system provides the progressive award, an amount of the progressive award is reset to the initial amount and a portion of each subsequent wager is allocated to the next progressive award. At least U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,766,079; 7,585,223; 7,651,392; 7,666,093; 7,780,523; and 7,905,778 and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2008/0020846, 2009/0123364, 2009/0123363, and 2010/0227677 describe various examples of different progressive gaming systems.
As generally noted above, in addition to providing winning credits or other awards for one or more plays of the primary game(s), in various embodiments the gaming system provides credits or other awards for one or more plays of one or more secondary games. The secondary game typically enables an award to be obtained addition to any award obtained through play of the primary game(s). The secondary game(s) typically produces a higher level of player excitement than the primary game(s) because the secondary game(s) provides a greater expectation of winning than the primary game(s) and is accompanied with more attractive or unusual features than the primary game(s). It should be appreciated that the secondary game(s) may be any type of suitable game, either similar to or completely different from the primary game.
In various embodiments, the gaming system automatically provides or initiates the secondary game upon the occurrence of a triggering event or the satisfaction of a qualifying condition. In other embodiments, the gaming system initiates the secondary game upon the occurrence of the triggering event or the satisfaction of the qualifying condition and upon receipt of an initiation input. In certain embodiments, the triggering event or qualifying condition is a selected outcome in the primary game(s) or a particular arrangement of one or more indicia on a display device for a play of the primary game(s), such as a “BONUS” symbol appearing on three adjacent reels along a payline following a spin of the reels for a play of the primary game. In other embodiments, the triggering event or qualifying condition occurs based on a certain amount of game play (such as number of games, number of credits, amount of time) being exceeded, or based on a specified number of points being earned during game play. It should be appreciated that any suitable triggering event or qualifying condition or any suitable combination of a plurality of different triggering events or qualifying conditions may be employed.
In other embodiments, at least one processor of the gaming system randomly determines when to provide one or more plays of one or more secondary games. In one such embodiment, no apparent reason is provided for the providing of the secondary game. In this embodiment, qualifying for a secondary game is not triggered by the occurrence of an event in any primary game or based specifically on any of the plays of any primary game. That is, qualification is provided without any explanation or, alternatively, with a simple explanation. In another such embodiment, the gaming system determines qualification for a secondary game at least partially based on a game triggered or symbol triggered event, such as at least partially based on play of a primary game.
In various embodiments, after qualification for a secondary game has been determined, the secondary game participation may be enhanced through continued play on the primary game. Thus, in certain embodiments, for each secondary game qualifying event, such as a secondary game symbol, that is obtained, a given number of secondary game wagering points or credits is accumulated in a “secondary game meter” configured to accrue the secondary game wagering credits or entries toward eventual participation in the secondary game. In one such embodiment, the occurrence of multiple such secondary game qualifying events in the primary game results in an arithmetic or exponential increase in the number of secondary game wagering credits awarded. In another such embodiment, any extra secondary game wagering credits may be redeemed during the secondary game to extend play of the secondary game.
In certain embodiments, no separate entry fee or buy-in for the secondary game is required. That is, entry into the secondary game cannot be purchased; rather, in these embodiments entry must be won or earned through play of the primary game, thereby encouraging play of the primary game. In other embodiments, qualification for the secondary game is accomplished through a simple “buy-in.” For example, qualification through other specified activities is unsuccessful, payment of a fee or placement of an additional wager “buys-in” to the secondary game. In certain embodiments, a separate side wager must be placed on the secondary game or a wager of a designated amount must be placed on the primary game to enable qualification for the secondary game. In these embodiments, the secondary game triggering event must occur and the side wager (or designated primary game wager amount) must have been placed for the secondary game to trigger.
In various embodiments in which the gaming system includes a plurality of EGMs, the EGMs are configured to communicate with one another to provide a group gaming environment. In certain such embodiments, the EGMs enable players of those EGMs to work in conjunction with one another, such as by enabling the players to play together as a team or group, to win one or more awards. In other such embodiments, the EGMs enable players of those EGMs to compete against one another for one or more awards. In one such embodiment, the EGMs enable the players of those EGMs to participate in one or more gaming tournaments for one or more awards. At least U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2007/0123341, 2008/0070680, 2008/0176650, and 2009/0124363 describe various examples of different group gaming systems.
In various embodiments, the gaming system includes one or more player tracking systems. Such player tracking systems enable operators of the gaming system (such as casinos or other gaming establishments) to recognize the value of customer loyalty by identifying frequent customers and rewarding them for their patronage. Such a player tracking system is configured to track a player's gaming activity. In one such embodiment, the player tracking system does so through the use of player tracking cards. In this embodiment, a player is issued a player identification card that has an encoded player identification number that uniquely identifies the player. When the player's playing tracking card is inserted into a card reader of the gaming system to begin a gaming session, the card reader reads the player identification number off the player tracking card to identify the player. The gaming system timely tracks any suitable information or data relating to the identified player's gaming session. The gaming system also timely tracks when the player tracking card is removed to conclude play for that gaming session. In another embodiment, rather than requiring insertion of a player tracking card into the card reader, the gaming system utilizes one or more portable devices, such as a cell phone, a radio frequency identification tag, or any other suitable wireless device, to track when a gaming session begins and ends. In another embodiment, the gaming system utilizes any suitable biometric technology or ticket technology to track when a gaming session begins and ends.
In such embodiments, during one or more gaming sessions, the gaming system tracks any suitable information or data, such as any amounts wagered, average wager amounts, and/or the time at which these wagers are placed. In different embodiments, for one or more players, the player tracking system includes the player's account number, the player's card number, the player's first name, the player's surname, the player's preferred name, the player's player tracking ranking, any promotion status associated with the player's player tracking card, the player's address, the player's birthday, the player's anniversary, the player's recent gaming sessions, or any other suitable data. In various embodiments, such tracked information and/or any suitable feature associated with the player tracking system is displayed on a player tracking display. In various embodiments, such tracked information and/or any suitable feature associated with the player tracking system is displayed via one or more service windows that are displayed on the central display device and/or the upper display device. At least U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,722,985; 6,908,387; 7,311,605; 7,611,411; 7,617,151; and 8,057,298 describe various examples of player tracking systems.
It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the present embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.