U.S. patent application number 09/813513 was filed with the patent office on 2001-07-26 for slot-type gaming machine with variable drop zone symbols.
Invention is credited to Krise, David A., Sines, Randy D..
Application Number | 20010009317 09/813513 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24606355 |
Filed Date | 2001-07-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010009317 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sines, Randy D. ; et
al. |
July 26, 2001 |
Slot-type gaming machine with variable drop zone symbols
Abstract
A game machine (2, 200) which includes a playing field (6, 301)
traversed by objects, such as balls (320). The playing field can
have plural drop zones (381-383) which can be selected by the
player using deflectors (108-110) that control where the balls are
launched. Detectors (22, 392) indicate scoring positions assumed by
the balls. A payline display (28, 335) displays scored events. A
symbol selector is included to select symbols which are variably
assigned to the scoring positions and displayed on displays (20,
397). Balls score symbols which can be displayed in the payline
display and affect winning or bonus play. Game machine (200)
includes traditional slot machine reels which works in conjunction
therewith.
Inventors: |
Sines, Randy D.; (Spokane,
WA) ; Krise, David A.; (Spokane, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WELLS ST JOHN ROBERTS GREGORY AND MATKIN
SUITE 1300
601 W FIRST AVENUE
SPOKANE
WA
992013828
|
Family ID: |
24606355 |
Appl. No.: |
09/813513 |
Filed: |
March 20, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09813513 |
Mar 20, 2001 |
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09128960 |
Aug 4, 1998 |
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6203009 |
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09128960 |
Aug 4, 1998 |
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08649821 |
May 17, 1996 |
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5788230 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/121B ;
273/138.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3262 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/34 20130101; G07F 17/3297 20130101;
A63F 7/022 20130101; A63F 2007/0064 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/121.00B ;
273/138.1 |
International
Class: |
A63F 003/00 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A game machine comprising: a playing field; a launcher for
launching at least one object onto the playing field; a plurality
of detecting positions configured to detect said at least one
object after the object has traversed across at least part of the
playing field; a symbol selector which performs an association
between a plurality of available symbols and said plurality of
detecting positions, said symbol selector performing said
association in a manner which varies from one game to another game;
and at least one payline display configured to display at least one
symbol which results from the at least one object being detected in
a detection position during play of a game.
2. A game machine comprising: at least one slot machine reel, said
at least one slot machine reel being mounted for movement between a
plurality of different reel positions to present various reel
symbols contained upon the at least one reel for viewing along a
payline; a playing field; a launcher for launching at least one
object onto the playing field; a plurality of detecting positions
configured to detect said at least one object after the object has
traversed across at least part of the playing field; a symbol
selector which performs an association between a plurality of
available symbols and said plurality of detecting positions, said
symbol selector performing said association in a manner which
varies from one game to another game; and at least one payline
display configured to display at least one symbol which results
from association by the symbol selector with the at least one
object being detected in a detection position during play of a
game.
3. A method of operating a game machine comprising: providing a
playing field; launching at least one object onto the playing field
whereon the at least one object moves upon the playing field in an
apparently random manner; providing a plurality of detector
positions which detect said at least one object after movement upon
the playing field; associating at least one symbol with at least
one of the plurality of detector positions, said associating being
performed in a manner which provides associated symbols from a
plurality of available symbols, said associated symbols varying
from one game to another game; detecting the at least one object in
one or more of the plurality of detector positions; displaying at
least one symbol which results from the at least one object being
detected in a detector position during play of a game.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of co-pending prior U.S.
Patent Application Ser. No. 08/649,821 filed May 17, 1996 (U.S.
Pat. No. 5,788,230 issued Aug. 4, 1998). Priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 120 is claimed with regard to said prior application. Said
prior application is also incorporated by reference hereinto in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The field of this invention is slot-type gaming machines
having a drop zone portion which has one or more dropping balls or
other dropping objects which can be received at different positions
to affect the action and probabilities associated with winning and
playing the game.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Slot machines have been a dominant part of the gaming
industry world wide for over 50 years. While pachinko machines have
seen a great deal of popularity in Asia, they are not as well
suited for gaming as the traditional slot machine.
[0004] Slot machines have changed very little over the years.
Whether mechanical or electronic, they still have reels spinning
and coming to stop on a potential jackpot. It appears that a large
part of the appeal of slot machines is the "mechanical" nature of
the spinning reels which induces a belief in players that they are
witnesses to a truly random event and that the "big" jackpot is
always just around the corner. While the big jackpot may or may not
be just around the corner, slot machines maintain a very accurate
payout percentage, usually 92 and 99 percent with the house
retaining the rest as profit.
[0005] The public perception and reaction to slot machines is a
critical part of their acceptance and the perception of the
fairness of the machine. When slot machines with video displays
showing simulated reels were introduced, the public rejected them
in favor of the older slot machines with mechanical reels. Even
though the new machines simulated the mechanical slots in every way
and used the same random number generating circuit and yielded the
same percentages as the mechanical slot machines, they were less
attractive to the gaming public.
[0006] The biggest problem with the mechanical or electronic slot
machines that have mechanical reels is that they have higher
mechanical maintenance costs than machines with video displays in
place of spinning reels. While prior art machines that replaced the
spinning reels with video displays had lower mechanical maintenance
costs, they were also less attractive to gamers.
[0007] Another problem with traditional slot machines is their
size, due to the space requirements of the mechanical reels.
Traditional slot machines take up a great deal of floor space and
are generally not well suited to being wall mounted. Smaller
machines would allow the machines' owners to generate more revenue
per square foot. The option of wall mounting a machine is
attractive because this allows greater flexibility in the placement
of machines.
[0008] Yet another problem with traditional slot machines is that
the limited number of possible combinations of symbols limits the
size of a jackpot that can be offered. In an effort to overcome
this limitation and to provide larger jackpots, gaming
establishments link multiple machines together in order to offer a
progressive jackpot. This is relatively complicated and requires
greater costs in setting up and operating the machines.
[0009] It is common for the patrons of slot machines and other
gaming devices to look for large jackpots in order to win big and
make a fortune. Although the progressive slot machines have
addressed some of this interest, there are some who are not drawn
to this approach. There is still a strong interest in the casino
industry for slot machines or similar gaming machines which can
offer large jackpots but still provide the consistent entertainment
value and steady operation of slot machines, but without the
expense and trouble of progressive slot systems. Thus there is a
continuing need for improved slot machines which can offer greater
combinations of events and greater jackpot amounts.
[0010] Finally, the very randomness which makes slot machines
attractive also deters some people from playing them because they
do not perceive there to be any skill involved in playing the game.
Additionally, some people are looking for a more interactive
experience than is provided by traditional slot machines. Too much
interactivity, such as that involved with video and pinball games,
would slow down the cycle rate of the machines to an unacceptable
level.
[0011] There is a demand for a gaming machine that is as attractive
to gamers as slot machines but at lower mechanical maintenance
costs. There is a further demand for a gaming machine which would
allow for the chance at a large jackpot with a small investment
without having to link together multiple machines. There is yet a
further demand for a gaming machine which creates a perception of
skill while maintaining an accurate payout percentage and a fast
cycle rate.
SUMMARY
[0012] The present invention is a drop slot game machine that
utilizes falling balls or other playing field objects which drop or
otherwise traverse across a playing field, such as from the upper
part of the playing field to a lower part of the playing field. The
playing field is advantageously is divided into user or randomly
selectable drop zones which allow the balls or other objects to be
introduced onto the playing field in more than one location. The
balls can traverse the playing field and be detected, such as at
exit positions near or at the bottom of the playing field. The
balls preferably encounter deflector pegs which effect, such as
randomly effect or change the path of the balls during their fall.
As each passes through an exit position it is detected by a
suitable sensor (photoelectric, infrared, electric, mechanical,
etc.).
[0013] The exit or other detector positions have a corresponding
symbol which is associated or assigned to the position to enhance
play. The symbol can be display on detector displays using suitable
symbol representations, such as represented on a liquid crystal
display, at or near an exit or other detector position. The symbol
display, can be configured to light up or otherwise indicate when a
ball passes through or is otherwise detected at that position. A
small indicator, such as or more LED's, above each symbol can be
used to reflects how many balls fell into a particular position
(providing some did). This is used to eliminate doubt which can
otherwise arise as to which position has been scored, and to how
many balls passed through the associated position. A larger payline
display, simulating the payline of a traditional slot machine,
shows the series of symbols selected by the balls passing through
the exit positions.
[0014] If, for example, three balls are dropped, then the symbols
representing the three exit positions which the balls pass through
are displayed on the larger payline display. The symbols used in
traditional slot machines as well as new symbols can be displayed
on the exit position symbol display and the payline display. If all
three balls fall into a single exit position, then the same symbol
will be represented three times on the payline.
[0015] Payout in the present invention is controlled by electrical
circuits similar to those controlling paying in traditional slot
machines, thereby ensuring the same payout percentages.
[0016] After passing through the exit positions, the balls
recirculate by rolling into a launching position where they will be
ejected back to the top of the game machine to drop through the
playing field. It is likely that the balls will be launched by
electrical solenoid or pneumatic ejector system.
[0017] A microprocessor/random number generator determines which
symbols appear on which exit positions at the time of each pull.
More than three balls can be used and more than three symbols can
be represented on the payline (such as a four or greater reel
machine). Furthermore, multiple paylines can be used using the
appropriate number of balls (i.e., three paylines, three symbols
per payline, nine balls would drop). In general, it is possible to
simulate almost all current slot machine pay variations.
[0018] An additional feature of the machine is to have drop zones
so that the balls may be deflected into one specific zone at the
upper starting position. These zones may be either randomly
selected by the machine itself, or selected by the player just
prior to the symbols being shown on the displays.
[0019] Other features may include bonus payoffs, such as: symbols
designated by the LCD as "double", "triple" etc. if balls fall in
those individual or group of holes. Another bonus may be available
if all the balls fall through the same hole. Yet another bonus may
be available based upon what is displayed on the exit position
display in combination with the payline display.
[0020] From a player's standpoint, there is an element of
anticipation not present in traditional slot machines. A player can
see a jackpot developing and "wish" balls into the jackpot
positions. The present invention also creates a perception of
"true" randomness not found in traditional slot machines. The
player sees balls freely dropping through the playing field as
opposed to reels jerkily moving symbols in or out of the
payline.
[0021] The present invention also creates a perception of skill. By
being able to select drop zones a player can exert a distinct
influence on the outcome (not at all present in current slot
machines). In reality, the percentages will run the same, but there
is little doubt that the perception of skill on the player's behalf
will exist.
[0022] Another aspect that is unique to the present invention is
what may be called the "if only I had" aspect which is evident in
other gambling sport/games, i.e. horse racing "if only I had bet on
the number two horse", roulette "if only I had bet the red or
seven", craps, etc. In the case of the present invention, "if only
I had selected number two drop zone".
[0023] Yet another advantage to the player is their ability to
experience the excitement of a "high probability of win" round when
they look down and see many symbols which may be "high" jackpot
oriented. In these cases, the player will actually be at an
advantage to win during that round, and he/she will know it. This
situation never exists on a traditional slot machine.
[0024] The machine of the present invention also allows for a
greater number of symbols to be displayed than a traditional, reel
based, slot machine. The reel based machines are limited to
displaying the number of symbols that can be fit on the reel. In a
three (3) reel machine with eleven (11) symbols per reel there are
1,331 possible combinations that can ever be displayed on the
payline. In the present invention it is easy to store many symbols
for electronic display. In a machine with eight (8) exit positions
and 25 possible symbols per exit position there are over 150
billion combinations for display on the exit position display. This
larger number of possible combinations makes it possible for the
present invention to pay out over a larger range of combinations
and would allow a single machine to have the potential to pay out a
very large jackpot.
[0025] The present invention should have a very wide appeal to the
gaming establishments as it has an overtly visible "mechanical"
element, balls launching and freely dropping through the playing
field, yet very low maintenance. The maintenance is low because
other than simple mechanical switches and a ball ejecting system,
the machine is dependent on non-mechanical hardware and software
for most of its operation.
[0026] Still other versions and aspects of the invention can be
implemented by combining the drop zone style game machine described
herein in a gaming machine which also includes a more traditional
reel-style slot machine. One or more reels having the reel symbols
included thereon can be presented in the traditional slot machine
fashion. The probability combinations can be greatly enhanced by
having a secondary drop zone section on the machine with the
traditional slot machine reels. The secondary drop zone section can
be played concurrently, as a bonus round, combined in a single
payline determination using both symbol sets, otherwise combined or
sequenced to enhance the player's enjoinment and anticipation. The
added mathematically probability options are greatly enhanced and
this allows the casino operator to offer greatly enhanced maximum
jackpot amounts without having the added cost and complexity of
connecting numerous slot machines into a mega-jackpot pool as is a
common and costly procedure being used widely in the casino
industry.
[0027] These and other features of the present invention will be
more fully appreciated when considered in light of the following
detailed description and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below
with reference to the following accompanying drawings.
[0029] FIG. 1 is a front diagrammatic view showing a preferred drop
slot gaming machine made in accordance with this invention.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of the upper portion of the
playing field forming part of the machine shown in FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 3 is an enlarged diagrammatic sectional view showing
portions circled at circle 3 of FIG. 2. Portions are shown in
dashed line to indicate action of a zone deflector which is shown
in this Fig.
[0032] FIG. 4 is an enlarged front elevational view showing a
preferred form of constructing the exit positions, payline display,
symbol selector display used as part of the gaming machine of FIG.
1.
[0033] FIG. 5 is an enlarged diagrammatic sectional view showing
portions circled at circle 5 of FIG. 4.
[0034] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the gaming machine of
FIG. 1.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a preferred operational
sequence used in the gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0036] FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of an alternative gaming
machine made in accordance with the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance
of the constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent Laws "to promote
the progress of science and useful arts" (Article 1, Section
8).
FIRST EMBODIMENT GENERALLY
[0038] The game machine of the present invention is shown generally
at 2 in FIG. 1. The present invention comprises a generally upright
gaming cabinet 4, the upper portion of which houses the playing
field 6 which in turn is covered by a transparent front glass 44.
At the top of playing field 6, there are three zone deflectors 108,
109, and 110, just below and slightly to the right of each
deflector there is a zone divider wall 112, 113, and 114. Zone
deflectors 108, 109, and 110 along with zone divider walls 112,
113, and 114 divide the upper portion of the playing field into
drop zones I, II, III and IV.
[0039] The middle portion of playing field 6 is comprised of a maze
of deflector pegs 12. Generally, the maze of deflector pegs 12 is
arranged so it would take a ball 2-4 seconds to fall through the
maze. There are eight exit positions 20 at the bottom of playing
field 6 under the maze of deflector pegs 12. Each exit position 20
has an exit position sensor 22 associated with it and each exit
position sensor 22 has an exit position symbol display 24
associated with it. Each exit position symbol display 24 is also
comprised of a ball count display 26. Beneath the exit position
symbol display 24, there is a payline display 28. In lieu of balls
it is also possible to use other suitable objects which can pass
over the playing field and be scored by the exit or other scoring
position sensors.
[0040] The exit positions 20 lead to ball return ramp 30 which in
turn leads to ball holder 32 which is connected to ball ejector 14
or other suitable ball or object launcher. Ball ejector 14 is
provided with a ball ejector sensor 34 that will cause the ball
holder 32 to load the ball ejector 14 when no balls are
detected.
[0041] The drop slot game machine 2 is also provided with four zone
select buttons 36 and a play handle 38. The player may use the zone
select buttons 36 to choose which zone the balls should drop into
when launched by the ball ejector 14. Play handle 38 is modeled
after a traditional slot machine handle.
[0042] FIG. 2 illustrates the drop zone portion of the present
invention. Referring to FIG. 3, we can see that zone deflectors 8
have two positions, retracted 117, and extended 116. When extended,
there is not enough room for a ball to pass between zone deflector
116 and zone divider wall 10. Front glass 44 and playing field 6
also limit the ball's travel. In addition, the upper interior edge
42 of playing field 6 is curved in order to guide the ball along a
path intersecting the deflectors 116. The extension and retraction
of the zone deflectors is controlled by deflector peg
retractor/extender 40 which is a solenoid in one of the preferred
embodiments.
[0043] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a front and side view of the exit
positions 20. In FIG. 5, deflector peg 12, exit position sensor 22,
and exit position symbol display 24, and payline display 28 can be
clearly seen. In the present preferred embodiment, exit position
sensor 22 is an infrared (IR) sensor. The IR sensor 22 detects a
ball passing through the exit position 20 and illuminates the
corresponding symbol on the exit position symbol display 24 and
payline display 28.
[0044] In a typical playing cycle the player will put coins in the
machine, or play credits, the same as regular slot machines. At
this point all LCDs or other display element may go blank. The
player then hits a drop zone button 36 once and new symbols are
selected and displayed on the exit position symbol display 24. The
player can now pull the traditional slot machine handle 38 or push
a play button 62 or a zone select button 36 again to launch the
balls. Upon first push of a zone select button 36, a zone deflector
8 is also activated and moves into its extended position 116.
[0045] A separate play button 62 will exist for people who just
want to put their money in and push a button, allowing play similar
to traditional slot machines. Alternatively, people may put their
money in and pull the handle 38. In these cases the zone will be
selected randomly by the machine itself As soon as this button is
pushed, or handle pulled, the symbols are immediately selected and
displayed on the exit position symbol display 24 and the ball is
launched (perhaps simultaneously). Balls are launched, deflected
into zones selected or random, fall and drop into holes and
appropriate symbols are displayed on the payline display 28. Balls
proceed to launch positions for next pull or launch. If the player
wins, coins drop or credits register like a traditional slot
machine.
[0046] All other features that are available in a traditional slot
machine, i.e., bill validator, personalized card tracking, cash or
credit, number of coins played display, are available in the
present invention.
[0047] In FIG. 7 the operation sequence of the present invention
begins with the machine in standby 70. In standby 70 the machine
can carry out any number of actions to attract players such as
lighting and sound effects. If the machine detects a coin drop or
credit deposit 72, the machine is initialized for game play 74.
Also referring to FIG. 1, when initialized for game play 74 the
present invention may randomly display symbols on the exit position
symbol display 24, clears the payline display 28, and moves all the
zone deflectors 8 to their starting position, either extended or
retracted.
[0048] Game play continues with either the player selecting a drop
zone I, II, III, IV when a zone select button is pressed 76 or the
machine randomly selecting a drop zone when the play handle is
pulled 78 or the play button is pushed 80. As the play handle is
pulled 78 or the play button is pushed 80, the selected zone
deflector is extended and the balls are launched and the game is
played 88. If a drop zone I, III, IV was selected when a zone
select button is pressed 76, the balls are launched and the game is
played 88 with a second pressing of the zone select button 82, the
play handle is pulled 78, or the play button is pushed 80.
[0049] In the preferred embodiment, the symbols on the exit
position symbol display 24 that are to be used for scoring in a
game are to be selected and displayed simultaneously with the
launching of the balls. Alternatively, the symbols on the exit
position symbol display 24 may be selected and displayed when the
drop zones are selected 76, the play handle is pulled 78, or the
play button is pushed 80.
[0050] If a coin drop or credit deposit is detected 72 and no
further game play events occur after a specified amount of time,
the machine may randomly select a drop zone and play the game 88 or
reset 96.
[0051] After the balls are launched and the game is played 88, the
present invention determines scoring 90. If the game is a winner,
the invention provides the appropriate payout response 92 and
returns the machine to standby 94 (70). If the game is not a winner
the machine is returned to standby 94 (70).
[0052] It is within the scope of the present invention to use any
number of balls or other suitable objects launched one at a time or
in groups. It is advantageous to use a smaller number of balls
launched simultaneously in order to keep the cycle rate on the game
as short as possible. It is also within the scope of the present
invention to use balls that have an offset center of mass.
[0053] The present invention may also be configured for lottery or
pull tab usage in areas where slot machines are prohibited. Any
number of balls could be dropped to select any number of randomly
selected symbols. The selected symbols would be displayed and any
winning combination would be printed out on a validated ticket for
redemption.
ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT
[0054] FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment gaming machine 200.
Gaming machine 200 is principally a traditional slot machine having
three reels 201-203 which are displayed through associated reel
windows 205. A reel payline 206 is defined by a bar or other
suitable indicia indicated across the face of the slot machine,
such as across windows 205 and adjacent portions of the slot
machine cabinet 208.
[0055] Reels 201-203 rotate about a horizontal axis extending left
to right in FIG. 8, the same as most slot machines. The reels stop
and the payline 206 defines the reel symbol combination which is
considered in determining the game outcome. The particular reel
symbol payline combination is either a losing combination or a
winning combination. If it is a winning combination, the winnings
are determined according to a payoff schedule programmed into the
gaming machine. The payoff schedule can also be presented visually
to the player and prospective players on the machine, such as
within a payoff schedule area 220 on the face of slot machine
200.
[0056] Slot machine 200 also has a bill acceptor 210 which can
accept money bills and process the bills for value and provide the
player with appropriate credit in the game machine control system.
A coin acceptor 230 is also included to accept coins for similar
credit and play. The face of slot machine 200 is also preferably
provided with a pay display 231 which shows the amount paid into
the machine through either the bill acceptor or coin acceptor. Also
advantageously included is a credit display 232 which shows the
game or similar credits available to the player. A coins played
display 233 can also be included to indicate the number of coins
which have been paid. One or more additional ancillary displays,
such as ancillary display 234, can also be included. Such displays
can be used for various purposes, such as to indicate one or more
playing rules associated with a particular slot machine; for
example, whether 1, 2 or 3 coins can be played, etc.
[0057] The front of gaming machine 200 can also include various
player controls. One available player control is the traditional
slot machine activation arm 241 which can be pulled to activate the
next spin of the reels 201-203. Alternatively, some people prefer
to use the easier activation touch control key 242. Machine 200 is
further provided with a three-coin activation touch control key 243
which can be used to initiate play on the basis of three coins
worth of wager.
[0058] It is also worthy of explanation that the gaming machine 200
can be set up and programmed so that by wagering greater amounts,
such as by using more coins or credits, the payoff schedule can be
varied to provide greater jackpots. This option is fully available
with the novel machines and methods described herein.
[0059] Player controls 244-246 are additional player control touch
keys which can be dedicated to various functions. Typical functions
include a control key 244 to select whether payoffs should be paid
in credit or coin; a control key 245 to select whether credits
should be paid out, such as at the end of a player's session of
play; or a control key 246 to select the number of coins to be
played in a particular spin of the reels. Other alternative player
controls are also clearly possible and may be preferred in various
forms of the invention.
[0060] Gaming machine 200 also includes a coin tray 250 which
receives coins which are paid out by the machine. Machine 200 can
also advantageously be provided with a light assembly 260 at the
top of the machine. Light 262 can be used to indicate the player is
in need of change so that a casino employee can attend to the
player's need for change or other money changing. Light 261 can be
flashed to indicate when a jackpot has been won to bring attention
and added excitement to the game and surrounding casino area.
[0061] A further feature and novel aspect of gaming machine 200 is
the drop zone play section 300. Drop zone play section 300 is very
similar to the drop zone game machine 2 described above, and the
description given elsewhere herein can be interpreted as applying
to the construction and function of the drop zone play section 300.
Differences and additional features particular to section 300 as
shown, and its operation, will now be described. However, it should
be appreciated that the design as described above in connection
with machine 2 can be incorporated in total or in part as an
alternative to the preferred drop zone play section 300 which will
now be described.
[0062] Drop zone section 300 includes a playing field 301 which has
a plurality of pins or deflector pegs 312. Deflectors 312 are
stationary although other shapes sizes and actions can be used to
increase game interest. A ball or other suitable object 320 is
released onto the playing field 301 in a manner the same or similar
to the machine 2. As shown, section 300 includes a ball feed 350
which can be made in a variety of forms. The ball feed 350 serves
as a launcher and it launches one or more balls or other objects
onto the playing field 301. The ball or balls 320 can be routed out
through a single object entry or launch point, or through one or
more of a plurality of launch ports 371-373. The launch ports
371-373 can be fitted with zone deflectors (not specifically
illustrated) similar to deflectors 108-110 of FIG. 2 for purposes
of controlling which of the available drop zones 381-383 in which
the ball is released or launched. Optional zone partitions 385 can
be included.
[0063] The drop zone section 300 further includes one or more
detectors 391 which detect the passage of the ball or balls 320
through one or more exit positions 392 arranged at suitable
locations upon the playing field, such as along the lower portion.
The exit or scoring positions 392 shown in FIG. 8 include an array
across the bottom of the playing field. This illustration pictures
eight (8) detection positions and eight associated exit positions
from which the balls 320 exit the playing field and are recycled
using a suitable ball recovery and handling mechanism, such as
shown above in connection with gaming machine 2, or according to
other know constructions. The eight detection positions also
preferably have associated detection position displays 397. The
detection position displays 397 are preferably changeable
electronic displays which can be electronically controlled to
display various numbers or other symbols. As shown there are
multiplier numbers shown on displays 397 to indicate a particular
type of play involving a bonus round which will be described in
greater detail below.
[0064] The drop zone section 300 can also include player control
touch keys 331-333 which allow the player to select one of the
three available drop zones 381-383 in which the ball or balls are
launched onto the playing field. In some forms of the invention,
these control keys also indicate that the player has chosen to play
a bonus round which is an optional play capability.
[0065] During operation, the gaming machine 200 can be used in
several different modes of operation. Such different modes of
operation may be preset by the casino, or be player selectable to
enhance the gaming choices. Gaming machine 200 can most
fundamentally be used as a basic slot machine in the traditional
manner with the user activating the reels 201-203 to spin and
present a reel symbol combination along the payline 206. The
specific rules used with govern what combinations are considered to
have payoffs.
[0066] Another mode of operation for gaming machine 200 is to use
the drop zone section 300 as a bonus round. In this mode of
operation, the user pulls the arm 241 or otherwise activates the
reels 201-203 to spin and produce a combination of symbols. If the
symbols on the payline 206 are a winning combination, then the
player is given an option to increase the jackpot. This option can
be automatic either as a part of the payoff associated with one or
more particular reel symbol combinations on the reel payline, or it
can be done at risk of a wager. In one form of play the bonus round
is merely a further play of the machine after receiving a winning
combination of a certain type. In this mode the ball or other
object 320 or group of such objects can be automatically launched
in response to a bonus round triggering event. The bonus round
trigger events can be a particular combination achieved on the
reels 201-203, a particular symbol shown on one or more reels, or
other similar event associated with play of the machine. The ball
or balls can be launched from one of the launch ports 371-373 as
controlled by the associated zone deflectors (not shown). It is
also possible to launch more than one ball and to launch the
multiple balls from one or more than one of the launch ports. The
ball or other object caroms off the playing field and surrounding
surfaces and any deflectors 312 to land in a detector position
392.
[0067] The detected position or positions scored by the ball or
balls are adjacent to a symbol display 397 which is variable to
assign various values or other symbols to a scored position. One
preferred manner of play involves a single ball which falls into
one of the detector positions and the symbol assigned to that
position is indicated, such as by being highlighted or presented in
a payline display 335. Payline display 335 is variable to allow
differing types of symbols to be presented as the scored symbols.
In a preferred mode of operation the symbols used in the detector
displays 397 are multiplier factors which are multiplied times the
payoff won by the combination shown on the reel payline 206. For
example, if the ball 320 falls into the detection position adjacent
to the symbol "20" then the player takes a jackpot equal to 20
times that awarded under the reel combination alone.
[0068] In order to allow probabilities and payoff to achieve a
proper balance, it may be desirable in some mode of operation to
have the player risk the jackpot awarded in the spin of the reels
201-203. This is illustrated in FIG. 8 by the detection position
display labeled with "0". If the ball 320 falls into the detector
position bearing this symbol value, then the player loses the
jackpot.
[0069] The set of available symbols presented in the detection
position displays 397 can be a very large set and need not be
solely multiplier factors. For example, the displays 397 might also
contain in addition to or in lieu of the numerical multipliers,
symbols similar to those on the reels 201-203. If the ball lands in
a detector position which is assigned the same symbol as the three
reels have place on the payline 206, then a further bonus may be
paid. For example, if the reels 201-203 all show cherry symbols,
and the ball lands in a detector position that also shows a cherry,
then the jackpot may increase by a suitable amount, for example ten
times.
[0070] It should also be appreciated that the drop zone section 300
can be utilized in another mode of operation, wherein the drop zone
is launched with one or more balls at the same time as the reels
201-203 are activated. The ball falls into a detector position
assigned a changeable symbol value as shown in the detector
position displays 397. If the symbol produces an increased jackpot
then the player wins big and greater excitement is brought to the
game.
[0071] It should be appreciated, that the number of possible
symbols which can be displayed by displays 397 is not limited to
the 20-25 typical slot machines symbols. They can be totally
different, such as the multiplier factors discussed above, or they
can be of other significance. The set is controlled by the
available set of symbols contained in the memory of the processor
controlling the game machine and there is in effect no definite
limit to the possible symbols. Since the drop zone feature allows a
large additional set of symbols to be used, the variety and size of
jackpots can be increased tremendously, thus overcoming a
troublesome limitation of traditional slot machines. For example,
one of the symbols available for assignment to a detector position
391 may be 10,000 times the jackpot shown on the reels 201-203. If
the jackpot on reels 201-203 is $1,000, then a jackpot of
$10,000,000 can be offered. In order to make the payout performance
of the gaming machine profitable, then the number of times the
10,000 times symbol appears will be less frequent than other
possible symbols.
[0072] It should still further be appreciated that the drop zone
section 300 can also be operated in a manner which combines both of
the above-described possible operational modes. For example, the
drop zone section can function simultaneously with the reels to add
additional play combinations, followed by a bonus round wherein
additional payline combinations are achieved. The bonus round can
be optional by costing additional coins or credits. The indicated
simultaneous operation of the drop zone section can also be
optional requiring additional coins or credits to be wagered. The
added flexibility which can be achieved in both play and payline
combinations is astronomical in comparison to the limitations of
prior art slot machines.
[0073] The start of any bonus round or of simultaneous drop zone
section play can also be done by lighting suitable parts of section
300, or by stimulating the drop zone section 300 in another manner.
A suitable message can be displayed either on the drop zone
detector displays 397 or in another manner upon the machine 200
which is satisfactory to apprise the player of the next actions to
be expected.
[0074] A still further operational mode is to allow a player to
play the drop zone portion 300 of gaming machine 200 in a manner
similar to gaming machine 2 explained above. The ball or balls
detected and the symbols assigned to the detected or scored
positions are displayed on the drop zone payline display 335. This
can include one or more symbols as a particular set of rules may be
set up.
[0075] It should also emphasized that the drop zone detector
displays are assigned symbols by a symbol selector which varies or
can vary the symbols assigned to each detector position from one
game to another game, or from one phase of a particular game to
another phase of the game.
METHODS
[0076] The invention further includes novel methods associated with
the operation and play of the gaming machines described
hereinabove. The novel methods can include one or more of the
indicated steps as explained herein and as further explained
below.
[0077] In one form the methods according to this invention include
providing a playing field. The playing field can advantageously be
constructed or otherwise provided is as described above, and is
adapted to allow the traversal of playing field objects over the
playing field. The playing field is provided most preferably in the
form of an inclined or vertical surface or surfaces which allow the
objects to traverse the playing field under an external force, such
as the force of gravity. The playing field can be provided with
differing drop zones so that the objects can be introduced onto the
playing field at one or more positions or in variable positions.
Alternatively, a single launching position is possible or can be
used with other aspects of the novel methods according to this
invention.
[0078] The preferred methods also advantageously include launching
or otherwise introducing at least one playing field object, such as
a ball, upon the playing field. The launching can be done using an
ejector or can be performed by otherwise feeding the ball or other
object onto the playing field. Preferred methods can also include
deflecting the launched or launching balls so that the ball starts
onto the playing field in one of a plurality of available drop
zones as can be controlled by the player or game machine processor.
The drop zones used in launching the object can be the result of a
selecting or controlling step. The selecting of the drop zone used
for launching one or more balls or objects can be accomplished by
the player as a selection process which improves the players
interaction with the gaming machine during play of the game. The
selecting of the drop zone from available drop zones can also be
performed by a gaming machine processor control which can utilize a
random selection technique or other selection technique which can
be programmed or be dependent upon various aspects of play
associated with the gaming machine.
[0079] The methods according to this invention can also be defined
by providing at least one, and more preferably, a plurality of
detector positions which facilitate detection of the playing field
objects as the objects land or traverse through one or more
detector positions. The detecting can be accomplished using any
suitable sensor or detector dependent upon the type of object being
used or the movement or condition at which detection is desired.
The detecting positions can advantageously be adjacent to or
coincident with exit positions through which the balls or other
objects leave the playing field.
[0080] The methods according to the invention also advantageously
include associating at least one symbol with at least one of the
plurality of detector positions. The associating is preferably
accomplished using a symbol selector which has a plurality of
available symbols forming a playing field detector symbol set from
which a symbol is selected. The selecting of symbols by the symbol
selector include assigning or associating the selected symbol with
one or more of the detecting positions.
[0081] The associating step is also preferably accompanied by a
step of displaying the symbols selected with the detecting position
or positions to which the symbol or symbols are assigned. The
displaying step can be accomplished most advantageously by
selecting symbols which can be displayed using changeable
electronically controllable detector position displays which bear
some spacial relationship or other relationship to the detector
positions of the playing field so that the player can readily see
the association which has been assigned.
[0082] The symbol selecting and any accompanied displaying steps
can be performed either prior to launching of an object onto the
playing field or during traversal of the object across the playing
field. Assignment of the symbol can also occur after detection, and
in some situation this operational regime may be preferred. In one
possible operational scheme, the various detector displays may be
cycled by cycling through different tentative assignments, or by
merely displaying different symbols using the detector displays.
This can be done preceding and during play of the playing field
object. When the object is detected the varying symbol selected are
assigned to the detector positions and the detector displays can be
illuminated or otherwise fixed for the player to perceive.
[0083] In another preferred method or methods according to the
invention, the symbol selecting is preceded by an anticipation
building displaying step wherein the at least one detector displays
are varied to present different of the available symbol set to wet
the players appetite for possible increased winnings. This is
particularly appropriate wherein the drop zone section is being
used as an optional bonus round for which the player must actively
make a decision to initiate the drop zone play sequence. For
example, the player may have already performed by playing the reels
of the slot machine and is now in a position to optionally wager
the jackpot already won in the available bonus round. The methods
can thus include a player deciding step wherein the player decides
whether to participate in the bonus drop zone play round. During
the considering period the player can be tempted by performing a
displaying step wherein the various potential symbols and
associated premiums can be intermittently displayed to attract
attention to the optional drop zone round and to present
information to the player about the set of symbols which may be
assigned to the various detection positions. This can serve an
attracting function of increased entertainment value and
potentially of increasing value from a profit standpoint for the
casino.
[0084] As an attendant possibility to the previously described
deciding step, the player can also be presented with an optional
choice of drop zone choices. This presenting of multiple drop zone
alternatives can be either a separate step or concomitant with the
step of acting to effectuate the deciding step by the player
performing an indication of the player choice whether to play the
bonus round or not.
[0085] The methods according to this invention also include
detecting the object by the detectors after the object has
traversed portions of the playing field and assumed an exit or
other detected position. The detecting step can be performed by
optically, electrically mechanically or otherwise sensing the
passage or presence of the ball or other playing object at the
detection location.
[0086] The detecting can be done for each detector with one option,
or by allowing multiple objects to be detected by the same
detector. The detection of multiple passages through the same
detector by multiple balls, can be used to further provide greater
options and flexibility regarding the payoff and jackpot size,
frequency, etc.
[0087] The detecting step is preferably followed by displaying the
symbol which has been variably associated with the detecting
position which actually detects the ball or balls. The displaying
can be accomplished using a payline display which shows the symbols
which have been scored by the object or objects which have played
upon the playing field.
[0088] In some of the methods according to this invention, the play
of the some of the preferred novel gaming machines also include
activating a reel or reels causing the reels to spin. The
activating step is following by spinning the reel or reels of the
slot machine. The methods further include stopping the reel or
reels. The stopping of the reel or reels further provides
displaying of the certain one or more reel symbols in a selected
position, such as at the reel payline. The methods can further
include identifying combinations of reel symbols which have been
stopped or otherwise selected for display on the payline or
paylines to determine winning symbols or combinations of symbols
which are presented. The identifying can also include consideration
of the drop zone portion of the game machine and one or more of the
drop zone detectors can be considered alone or in combination with
some or all of the symbols displayed at the reel symbol payline to
achieve a winning or losing combination.
[0089] The determining of winning symbols or combinations of
symbols can also be used as a triggering event to an option to play
a bonus round or bonus rounds. The bonus rounds can be performed
using the drop zone section or using other procedures as explained
herein.
[0090] The games can further include paying out any payoffs which
the player has acquired during play of the game. This can include
paying in coins, credits, on account or other means for payoffs to
be effected.
[0091] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been
described in language more or less specific as to structural and
methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the
invention is not limited to the specific features shown and
described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred
forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is,
therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the
proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in
accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.
* * * * *