U.S. patent application number 10/660060 was filed with the patent office on 2005-03-10 for gaming device having matching game with dual random generating and player picking of symbols.
Invention is credited to Baerlocher, Anthony J., Gilliland, John G., Kaminkow, Joseph E., Kniesteadt, Carl V., Webb, Bayard S..
Application Number | 20050054415 10/660060 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34227030 |
Filed Date | 2005-03-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050054415 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kaminkow, Joseph E. ; et
al. |
March 10, 2005 |
Gaming device having matching game with dual random generating and
player picking of symbols
Abstract
An improved Brasil Slingo.TM.-type game for a wagering gaming
device. The game enables the player to select an amount of masked
symbols prior to the generation the symbols by generation devices
associated with the masked symbols. When the symbols selected by
the player match symbols generated by the generation devices, the
game enables a bonus game or award generation apparatus. In one
embodiment, the apparatus is electromechanical. The payer's overall
award is a combination of the output of the bonus game or apparatus
and the base Slingo.TM. game.
Inventors: |
Kaminkow, Joseph E.; (Reno,
NV) ; Baerlocher, Anthony J.; (Reno, NV) ;
Kniesteadt, Carl V.; (Reno, NV) ; Webb, Bayard
S.; (Sparks, NV) ; Gilliland, John G.; (Washoe
Valley, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BELL, BOYD & LLOYD LLC
P. O. BOX 1135
CHICAGO
IL
60690-1135
US
|
Family ID: |
34227030 |
Appl. No.: |
10/660060 |
Filed: |
September 10, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3286 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/016 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming device comprising: a group of selections, each
selection associated with a symbol from a range of a plurality of
symbols; an independent generation device associated with each
selection group, the random generation devices each generating one
of the symbols of the associated selection group upon activation;
at least one pick of the selections; a number of generations by
each of the generation devices, wherein the number is at least one;
a first award provided to the player based on the symbols
associated with the selections which are generated by the
associated generation devices within the number of generations; and
a second award provided to the player based on how many of the
symbols associated with selections picked are generated by the
associated generation devices within the amount of generations.
2. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the first award is
provided contingent upon a threshold percentage of the symbols
associated with the selections being generated by the associated
generation devices within the amount of generations.
3. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the first award is
provided contingent upon each of the symbols associated with the
solutions being generated by the associated generation devices
within the amount of generations.
4. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the second award is a
combination of values provided in connection with each of the
symbols associated with selections picked by the player that are
also generated by the device.
5. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the second award includes
an outcome from at least one bonus game played after one of the
symbols associated with selections picked by the player is also
generated by the device.
6. The gaming device of claim 5, wherein the bonus game includes a
mechanical device that generates the outcome.
7. The gaming device of claim 6, wherein the mechanical device is
selected from the group consisting of: a spinning reel, a spinning
wheel, a translating indicator, a rotating indicator and any
combination thereof.
8. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the second award is
generated via a mechanical display device.
9. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes a plurality of
groups of selections, each selection associated with a symbol from
the range, wherein each generation device is associated with one of
the selections of each of the groups, and wherein the first award
is based on how many symbols associated with the selections of each
of the groups are generated by the associated generation devices
within the amount of generations.
10. The gaming device of claim 9, wherein the first award is
provided contingent upon a threshold percentage of the symbols
associated with the selections of one of the groups being generated
by the associated generation devices within the amount of
generations.
11. The gaming device of claim 9, wherein the first award is
provided contingent upon each of the symbols associated with the
selections of one of the groups being generated by the associated
generation devices within the amount of generations.
12. The gaming device of claim 9, wherein the groups are displayed
as rows of masked selections and the generation devices are each
displayed adjacent to a column of selections from each of the
groups.
13. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the generation devices
each generate and display one of the symbols from the range.
14. The gaming device of claim 1, which is played via a data
network.
15. The gaming device of claim 14, wherein the data network
includes an internet.
16. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the symbols are
numbers.
17. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the symbols are masked
initially.
18. The gaming device of claim 1, which includes additional
generations available to be generated by the generation
devices.
19. A gaming device comprising: a first display device displaying a
group of selections, each selection associated with a symbol from a
range of a plurality of symbols, and an independent generation
device associated with each selection of the group, each device
generating one of the symbols of the associated selection group
upon activation, at least one pick of the selections; a first award
provided to a player based on the symbols associated with the
selections generated by the associated generation devices; and a
second award provided to the player based on how many of the
symbols associated with selections picked are generated by the
associated generation devices, wherein the second award is
generated by a second display device.
20. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the first award is
provided contingent upon a threshold percentage of the symbols
associated with the selections being generated by the associated
generation devices within the amount of generations.
21. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the first award is
provided contingent upon each of the symbols associated with the
solutions being generated by the associated generation devices
within the amount of generations.
22. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the second award is a
combination of values generated by the second display device, the
values provided in connection with each of the symbols picked by
the player that are also generated by the device.
23. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the second display
device operates a bonus game to produce the second award.
24. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the second display
device is selected from the group consisting of a spinning wheel, a
spinning reel, a translation indicator, a rotating indicator and
any combination thereof.
25. The gaming device of claim 19, which includes a plurality of
groups of selections, each selection associated with a symbol from
the range, wherein each random generation device is associated with
one of the selections of each of the groups, and wherein the first
award is based on how many symbols associated with the selections
of each of the groups are generated by the associated generation
devices within the amount of generations.
26. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the first display device
includes a video monitor coupled operably with a touch screen.
27. The gaming device of claim 19, which is played via a data
network.
28. The gaming device of claim 27, wherein the data network
includes an internet.
29. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the symbols are
numbers.
30. The gaming device of claim 19, wherein the symbols are masked
initially.
31. The gaming device of claim 19, an additional award adapted to
be provided to the player if at least one designated combination of
symbols is generated by a plurality of the generation devices.
32. The gaming device of claim 31, wherein said designated
combination of symbols must occur in a row of symbols or a column
of symbols.
33. A method of operating a gaming device having a game payable
upon a wager, said method comprising: (a) displaying a first group
of symbols from a set of a plurality of symbols; (b) enabling a
player to pick at least one of the symbols; (c) generating randomly
a second group of the symbols from the set on a plurality of
independent generation devices, each generating one of said
symbols; (d) providing the player a first award based on the
symbols from the first group which are randomly generated in the
second group; and (e) providing the player a first award based on
how many player picked symbols groups are generated in the second
group.
34. The method of claim 33, wherein awarding the player based on
the symbols from the first group generated in the second group
includes awarding the player if a threshold percentage of the
masked symbols are generated in the second group.
35. The method of claim 33, which includes dividing the first group
of symbols into a plurality of sub-groups and awarding the player
if each of the symbols of one of the sub-groups is generated.
36. The method of claim 33, wherein step (c) is repeated at least
one time before steps (d) and (e).
37. The method of claim 33, wherein awarding the player based on
how many player-picked symbols from the first group are randomly
generated in the second group includes generating an award for each
match of the symbols.
38. The method of claim 33, wherein awarding the player based on
player-picked symbols from the first group generated in the second
group includes using a mechanical display to generate the
award.
39. The method of claim 33, wherein steps (a) to (e) are provided
via a data network or a computer storage device.
40. The method of claim 39, wherein the data network includes an
internet.
41. A method of operating a gaming device having a game operable
upon a wager, said method comprising: (a) enabling play of an item
matching game as a first bonus game of a base game, wherein an
objective is to randomly match as many of the items as possible;
(b) enabling the player to pick certain of the items prior to a
matching sequence of the matching game; (c) enabling the player to
play a number of second bonus game based on how many of the player
picked items are matched in the matching sequence, wherein the
matching sequences includes a plurality of independent generation
devices each generating one of the items; and (d) providing an
award to the player based on each of the outcomes of the first and
second bonus games.
42. The method of claim 41, which includes structuring the item
matching game to include a plurality of reels, each associated with
a dedicated group of the items, wherein the reels can generate and
match designated items of the group.
43. The method of claim 41, which includes structuring the second
bonus game to include an electromechanical apparatus.
44. The method of claim 41, which includes providing a number of
plays in the second bonus game based on how many of the player
picked items are matched in the matching sequence.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application relates to the following co-pending
commonly owned application: "GAMING DEVICE HAVING FREE GAME KENO",
Ser. No. 10/243,051, Attorney Docket No. 0112300-1095; and "GAMING
DEVICE HAVING KENO GAMES WITH WEIGHTED OUTCOMES AND DRAW FIRST
DISPLAY", Attorney Docket No. 0112300-1245.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which 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.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates in general to a wagering
gaming device, and in particular to a gaming device having a
matching game with dual random generating and player picking of
symbols.
[0004] Referring now to FIG. 1, the known Brasil Slingo.TM. game is
illustrated. FIG. 1 is a screen shot from a video monitor, such as
video monitor 16 illustrated in FIG. 2. Known Brasil Slingo.TM.
includes three groups of nine masked symbols. As illustrated, Group
62 includes masked symbols 60a through 60i. Group 64 includes
masked symbols 60j through 60r. Group 66 includes masked symbols
60s through 60aa.
[0005] The groups 62 through 66 are arranged in a grid pattern
forming rows and columns. Each column includes one masked symbol
from each group 62 through 66. One of the reels 68 (referring
collectively to reels 68a through 68i) is associated with each
column. For instance, reel 68a is associated with masked symbols
60a, 60j and 60s. Reel 68f, on the other hand, is associated with
masked symbols 60f, 60o and 60x.
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates that the known game of Brasil Slingo.TM.
provides a player with a number of turns or spins as indicated by
spins remaining display 72. The game enables the player to initiate
the spinning of reels 68 via the spin button 74. The gaming device
displays any win to the player via win meter 76.
[0007] When the game begins, the player sees the twenty-seven
masked symbols 60a through 60aa. The object of the game is to match
as many numbers randomly hidden behind or associated with those
symbols as possible within three spins. The player hits the spin
button 74 to play the game. When the player hits the spin button
74, the reels 68 each generate one of ten possible numbers. The
reel 68a generates one of the numbers zero to nine. The reel 68b
generates one of the numbers ten to nineteen. The reel 68c
generates one of the numbers twenty to twenty-nine. The reel 68d
generates one of the numbers thirty to thirty-nine. The reel 68e
generates one of the numbers forty to forty-nine. The reel 68f
generates one of the numbers fifty to fifty-nine. The reel 68g
generates one of the numbers sixty to sixty-nine. The reel 68h
generates one of the numbers seventy to seventy-nine. The reel 68i
generates one of the numbers eighty to eighty-nine. Each of those
ranges of numbers is also associated with the respective column of
symbols 60.
[0008] Besides generating numbers, the reels can also generate
"Super Jokers" or "Free Spin" symbols. The Super Joker, which has
been generated in FIG. 1 by the reel 68h reveals and matches each
of the numbers of its associated column. The Free Spin allows the
player to have one more spin of each of the reels 68a to 68i.
[0009] Known Brasil Slingo.TM. pays the player in a number of ways.
Certain of the masked numbers 60a through 60aa are associated
additionally with bonus Slingo.TM. coins. When those numbers are
matched, the player receives the associated coins. The main form of
payment occurs by matching and revealing each of the numbers in one
or more of the rows 62 to 66. Matching and revealing certain
patterns also generates awards for the player. In particular, if
the revealed numbers form a "big M" or a "big W," the player wins.
Still further, amassing Super Jokers yields additional Slingo.TM.
coins to the player.
[0010] The point accumulation for known Brasil Slingo.TM. is as
follows: (i) completing one row pays 100 points; (ii) completing
two rows pays 250 points; (iii) obtaining a big "M" or a big "W"
pays 500 points; (iv) matching and revealing all numbers pays 1,000
points; (v) obtaining four Super Jokers pays 100 points; (vi)
obtaining five Super Jokers pays 200 points; (vii) obtaining six
Super Jokers pays 1,000 points; (viii) obtaining seven Super Jokers
pays 5,000 points; (ix) obtaining eight Super Jokers pays 15,000
points; and (x) obtaining nine Super Jokers pays 25,000 points.
This is employed by an internet game with multiple players
competing for the most points to win the game.
[0011] While the known Brasil Slingo.TM. game has achieved a
certain amount of commercial success, it is desirable to increase
the enjoyment and excitement of that game. It is also desirable to
provide a Brasil Slingo.TM.-type game for a wagering gaming
machine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The present invention provides an improved version of the
Brasil Slingo.TM. game for a wagering gaming machine. The present
invention includes each of the features discussed above in
connection with FIG. 1. In addition, the present invention provides
a player interactive element added to the play and an award scheme
for providing players awards in a primary or secondary game of a
wagering gaming machine. In the game of the present invention, the
gaming machine enables the player choose or pick an amount of the
masked symbols 60a to 60aa prior to selecting the spin button 74 to
generate outcomes. In one embodiment, the game of the present
invention enables the player to pick three of the masked symbols.
The player can pick any of the symbols 60a to 60aa. As such, the
game of the present invention displays and provides masked
selections and not merely masked symbols.
[0013] When the player is finished picking the allotted three
masked selections, the player hits the spin button 74 as described
above. After each spin, the gaming device determines whether one of
the player's picked selections has been matched and revealed. If
so, the gaming device provides the player with a bonus opportunity.
In one embodiment, the match allows the player to play a bonus game
on a secondary display. In one embodiment, the secondary display
includes at least one mechanical device.
[0014] In one embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to
play the bonus game immediately after a match occurs due to the
spin of the reels in the base Slingo.TM. game. That is, the player
plays Slingo.TM., then the bonus game, then back to Slingo.TM.,
etc. In another embodiment, the gaming device accumulates each of
the matches between the player's picks and the game's picks and
enables the player to play the bonus game after each of the
Slingo.TM. spins has occurred.
[0015] The bonus game played via the matches with the player picks,
includes a mechanical device in one embodiment. The bonus game can
include a spinning wheel, spinning reel, rotating or translating
indicator, etc. When the player plays the bonus game, the gaming
device typically provides the player a certain type of outcome such
as an award. The bonus award is provided in addition to any award
or awards that the player wins via play of the base game.
[0016] It should be appreciated that the improved Slingo.TM. game
of the present invention also provides an additional award avenue
to the player. That is, besides each of the award possibilities
described above, the player also accumulates awards due to bonus
game play. Also, the present invention increases the level of
player interaction versus known Brasil Slingo.TM.. Those features
increase fun and excitement during gaming.
[0017] It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to
provide an improved game of Brasil Slingo.TM..
[0018] Another advantage of the present invention to provide a
gaming device having an improved level of player interaction.
[0019] A further advantage of the present invention to provide a
gaming device having multiple award avenues.
[0020] A further advantage of the present invention to provide a
gaming device having a video-based primary game and a mechanical
secondary game.
[0021] Additional features and advantages of the present invention
are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed
Description of the Invention and the figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0022] FIG. 1 is an elevation view of a prior art matching
game.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the
gaming device of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of the electronic
configuration of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing one possible sequence of
operation of the matching game of the present invention.
[0026] FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8 are expanded elevation views of the
video monitor displayed in FIG. 2 showing various screen shots of
one embodiment of the matching game of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 9 is an elevation view of one preferred display of the
gaming device of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Gaming Device and Electronics
[0028] Referring now to FIG. 2, each of the embodiments described
herein is provided in one preferred embodiment in a gaming device
10. Alternatively, certain embodiments are provided on various
monitors throughout a casino or gaming establishment. Gaming device
10 is in one embodiment a video gaming device and includes a
cabinet 12 having at least one video monitor. The illustrated
embodiment includes an electromechanical display 14 and a video
monitor 16. Electromechanical display 14 is alternatively a second
video monitor. Cabinet 12 is illustrated as being of a type where
the player stands or sits. The cabinet is alternatively a bar top
cabinet, wherein the player sits to play the Slingo.TM. game of the
present invention.
[0029] Cabinet 12 of gaming device 10 also includes one or more
monetary input devices 22. The monetary input device 22 can accept
coins, cash, a smart card, a credit card, a debit card, a casino
card or other type of gaming device card. Gaming device 10 can also
include a ticket reader and a ticket printer (not illustrated) that
enables the player to input and receive a redeemable ticket in lieu
of cash. The ticket reader/validator and printer operate with the
processor housed inside gaming device 10.
[0030] Cabinet 12 also provides controls for a player to operate
gaming device 10. In the illustrated embodiment, various
electromechanical input devices 18 are provided on a tilted portion
20 of the cabinet 12, below video monitor 16. Electromechanical
input devices 18 each send a discrete signal to a microprocessor
(described further below) located within cabinet 12. Those input
devices enable the player to perform the various game functions,
including but not limited to, picking at least one of the
selections for groups 162 to 166 (see FIG. 3), initiating the
random generating devices 68 wagering a variable number of credits
and cashing out.
[0031] Similar to the electromechanical input devices 18, cabinet
12 of gaming device 10 can provide electromechanical displays that
show, for example, the player's credits maintained within gaming
device 10, the matches for the player's selection, etc. In one
embodiment, however, those functions as well as others are provided
on video monitor 16. In one embodiment, display device 16 provides
a number of screens that the player accesses selectively to see the
pays for the matching game, the possible wagers, bonus game
information, etc. Display 16 can also inform the player of the
rules concerning the operation of one or more or all of the
embodiments of the present invention.
[0032] Video monitor 16 displays, without limitation: (i) the
masked selections or numbers (selections 160a to 160aa); (ii) the
symbols or numbers randomly generated by gaming device 10 (reels
68a to 68i); (iii) the selections and revealed symbols or numbers
picked or played by the player (marked, e.g., "player picked");
(iv) revealed symbols or numbers from matches between the masked
symbols and the generated symbols; (iv) the wager per game; (v) the
player's total wager; (vi) the player's award from the randomly
generated matches (display 76); (vii) the player's award from the
player's picks (display 78); and (viii) the player's total award
(display 84).
[0033] Display device 14 in the illustrated embodiment includes
three different electromechanical devices that provide the bonus
game of the present invention. Rotating wheel 86 includes a
stationary or rotating indicator 88 and a plurality of award values
90. Reels 92 also display award values. Display 94 includes a
translating indicator 96 and a plurality of award values 98. One,
or more or all of the displays can be provided to operate
individually at different times or collectively at the same time.
The outputs from the displays can be added to form an overall
award. Otherwise, the award can be selected from the outputs of the
electromechanical displays.
[0034] Referring now to FIG. 3, gaming device 10 is run by a
processor or central processing unit ("CPU") 38 and a memory device
40 that operates with one or more display devices 14 and 16 that
display the matching game of the present invention. Processor 38 is
in one embodiment a microprocessor and has a microcontroller-based
platform. Memory device 40 includes random access memory ("RAM") 46
and read only memory ("ROM") 48. The platform for the processor 38
and memory device 40 is located variously: (i) inside gaming device
10; (ii) as stand alone components in the casino; or (iii) part of
a server/client system, data network, one or more
application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC's) or one or more
hard-wired devices.
[0035] Gaming device 10 can house its own game program or be linked
in a client/server manner via a data network 30, wherein the
present invention provides some or all of the functions of the
processor and/or memory device at a central location, such as a
network server for communication to a playing station over a local
area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet connection,
microwave link and the like.
[0036] Gaming device 10 includes one or more simulated input
devices. The simulated input devices are provided by a touch screen
50 that operates via a touch screen controller 52 and a video
controller 54 with the processor 38. The input devices (mechanical
or virtual) enable the player to operate the matching gaming device
10 of the present invention. Cabinet 12 of gaming device 10 also
provides a number of speakers 24 that operate via a soundcard 42
with processor 38. The video monitor 16, and alternatively or
additionally the speakers 24, explain the operation of and perform
the game of the present invention. The speakers 24 can also inform
the player of any type of output, outcome or additional instruction
for gaming device 10.
[0037] Gaming device 10 in one embodiment operates the game of the
present invention as well as another game, such as keno, slot,
poker, blackjack, craps or other video wagering game. In one
embodiment, the game of the present invention is displayed on one
video monitor (e.g., monitor 16), while the second game is
displayed afterward on the same monitor 16. Besides providing the
matching game of the present invention, any of the embodiments
described herein can be additionally coupled with the one or more
games, such as keno, slot, poker, blackjack, craps, bingo, etc. The
Slingo.TM. game pays out in tokens or coins in one embodiment but
additionally or alternatively pays out non-monetary awards or bonus
awards, such as free games, a casino beverage or meal, a number of
selections from a prize pool, etc.
[0038] Referring now to FIG. 4, one possible sequence 100 for
operating the improved Slingo.TM. game of the present invention is
illustrated. Upon starting the base Slingo.TM. game as indicated by
oval 102, the video monitor 16 operates with touch screen 50 and
displays an array of masked award symbols in groups, as indicated
by block 104. While one preferred embodiment of the present
invention uses numbers as with known Slingo.TM., the present
invention is also operable with other types of symbols, rather than
numbers. For example, instead of using the numbers zero through
eight-nine (or one through ninety), the present invention could
instead use letters, alphanumeric symbols or other suitable
symbols.
[0039] The masked selections are arranged in three groups of nine
selections. Those groups are displayed together as an array in one
embodiment. The array includes the three groups and also forms nine
columns. Each column is associated with a unique random generation
device as indicated by block 104. While the nine by three scheme is
preferred in one embodiment, the present invention can provide a
different number of groups and/or a different number of masked
selections per group.
[0040] Gaming device 10, in alternative embodiments, displays the
groups with different spatial relationships than the rows and
columns illustrated in FIG. 5. For example, selections that are
related via a random generation device can be linked by type of
symbol, a displayed path or other type of visual marker that links
selections of different groups, which are, in turn, associated with
the same random generation device together.
[0041] In one embodiment, the random generation device is a reel as
discussed above. In an alternative embodiment, the random
generation device is another type of visual display that generates
one of the symbols from a range of symbols. For example, the reels
68 are replaced by spinning reels in one alternative embodiment. As
further indicated by block 104, the groups are arranged so that
each of the random generation devices is visibly associated with
one of the selections from each of the groups of selectable award
symbols.
[0042] Gaming device 10 enables the player to pick a designated
number of the masked symbols as indicated by block 106. In one
embodiment, the player can pick three of the selectable symbols.
Gaming device 10 alternatively provides the player with any
suitable number or percentage of picks of the masked selections in
accordance with game mathematics.
[0043] Gaming device 10 determines whether the player has made the
provided number of picks as indicated by diamond 108. If the player
has not completed the allotted number of picks, the gaming device
enables the player to make another pick as indicated by block 106.
If the player has completed the allotted picks, the gaming device
causes the generation devices 68a through 68i to generate symbols,
e.g., numbers. The gaming device reveals any of the masked symbols
generated by the generation devices 68a to 68i.
[0044] Next, the gaming device determines whether any group of
masked selections is completely revealed due to the last random
generation as indicated by diamond 112. If any of the groups of
masked symbols is revealed, the gaming device awards the player for
any of such completed groups as indicated by block 114. As
described above, the gaming device provides more credits or
Slingo.TM. points to the player for completing a higher number of
the groups. Still further, gaming device 10 yields free spins in
one embodiment.
[0045] After receiving any award due, as indicated by block 114, or
if the generation devices do not yield an award for the player, as
indicated by diamond 112, the gaming device determines whether any
masked symbol picked by the player is generated by the generation
devices as determined in connection with diamond 116. If so, the
gaming device operates a bonus game or event and provides any award
generated therefrom to the player.
[0046] In one embodiment, the player has an opportunity to win a
higher award as the player accumulates more matches. For example,
the gaming device in an embodiment enables the player to play the
bonus game after each random generation of one of the player's
picks. Alternatively, the gaming device accumulates the matches and
allows the player a bonus play for each match after base game
Slingo.TM. play.
[0047] Regardless of whether the player obtains a bonus award or
plays a bonus game, the gaming device determines whether any
generations of the Slingo.TM. game are left, as indicated by
diamond 120. If there is another set of random generations of the
devices 68a to 68i, the gaming device again causes the generation
device to generate another set of symbols and reveal from the
masked selections any matching symbols. The above-described cycle
is repeated until no more random generations are left, as indicated
by diamond 120, wherein the game sequence ends, as indicated by
oval 122.
[0048] Referring now to FIGS. 5 to 8, screen shots of one
embodiment of the improved Brasil Slingo.TM. game of the present
invention are illustrated on the display device 16. Display device
16 operates with the touch screen 50 so that the player 88 can
select any three (or other amount) of the selections 160a to 160aa
of groups 162 to 166, as well as spin button 74. Group 162 includes
masked selections 160a to 160i. Group 164 includes masked
selections 160j to 160r. Group 166 includes masked selections 160s
to 160aa.
[0049] The groups 162 to 166 are arranged in a grid-like format in
the illustrated embodiments. The generation device 68a is
associated with the selections 160a, 160j and 160s. The generation
device 68b is associated with the selections 160b, 160k and 160t.
The generation device 68c is associated with selection 160c, 160l
and 160u. The generation devices 68d to 68i are associated with the
remaining columns accordingly.
[0050] As discussed above, in one embodiment, generation devices
68a to 68i are reels that show a spinning motion or otherwise show
that the gaming device is randomly generating a number Super Jokers
or free spin from the applicable range of numbers (which includes
also a predefined or randomly determined amount of Super Jokers
and/or free spin symbols). The random generation devices then
display a randomly generated number or symbol. If that symbol is
masked behind one of the masked selections of the associated
column, the symbol is revealed in place of the mask.
[0051] FIGS. 5 to 8 illustrate that the improved Brasil Slingo.TM.
game of the present invention includes the spins remaining display
72, the spin button 74 and the win meter 76. Win meter 76 shows any
award achieved through base game play of the Brasil Slingo.TM.
game. Win meter 76, for example, shows awards generated if each of
the symbols associated with the masked selections of any one or
more of the groups 162 to 166 is generated. The win display 76 also
shows any win from an accumulated number of Super Joker
symbols.
[0052] Bonus meter 78 shows any win from a bonus game played as a
result of a match between one of the randomly generated symbols and
a masked selection picked by the player. Some embodiments for
playing the bonus game of the present invention are illustrated
below. Total win meter 82 totals the wins from the base game win
meter 76 and the bonus win meter 78. Display 84 designates the
symbol or number of the matches that occur between symbols picked
by the player and symbols generated randomly by generation devices
68a to 68i.
[0053] In one embodiment, masked selections 160a to 160aa are
associated with touch screen 50. The player simply touches the
desired selection to pick that selection. In an alternative
embodiment, separate electromechanical devices or other suitable
mechanisms are provided to enable the player to pick one or more of
the masked selections 160a to 160aa.
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, gaming device 10 enables the
player to select three masked selections. In FIG. 5, the player 88
picks the masked selections 160k, 160v and 160x. Each of those
selections is marked "player picked" or is suitably marked via a
change of color or other suitable method or indicator. In the
illustrated embodiment, the player makes each of the picks prior to
hitting the spin button 74. In alternative embodiments, the player
selects one or more of the marked selections after hitting spin
button 74 one or more times.
[0055] In FIG. 6, the player 88 hits spin button 74 for the first
time, leaving the spins remaining display 72 to show two remaining
spins (for three given spins). The reels 68a to 68i then spin and
show outcomes. As illustrated, reel 68b randomly generates the
number thirteen (from ten to nineteen), which is a match with the
value masked by section 160b. Reel 68c randomly generates the value
twenty-five (from twenty to twenty-nine), which matches the value
masked by related (same column) selection 160v. Reel 68f randomly
generates the value fifty-four (from fifty to fifty-nine), which
matches the value masked by related (same column) selection 160x.
Still further, reel 68h generates randomly the value seventy-eight
(from seventy to seventy-nine), which matches the value masked by
related (same column) selection 160q.
[0056] Of the matched values thirteen, twenty-five, fifty-four and
seventy-eight in FIG. 6, value fifty-four is also a value of a
player-picked selection 160x. Accordingly, the value fifty-four is
tallied in the picks that match meter 84. Picks that match meter 84
is alternatively called or referred to as a "Slingo.TM. spin meter"
because the matches tallied provide the basis for or provide
directly the number of spins or plays of one or more mechanical
devices that the player has once the spinning of reels 68a to 68i
stops.
[0057] In FIG. 7, player 88 hits spin button 74 again, leaving
spins remaining meter 72 to show one remaining pick. Reels 68a to
68i spin again and stop to display a new set of random outcomes. As
illustrated, reel 68b generates randomly the value fifteen, which
matches the value hidden behind selection 160k. Reel 68f generates
randomly the value fifty-one, which matches the value hidden behind
selection 160f. Of those matches, value fifteen is also a value of
a player-picked selection 160k. Value fifteen is accordingly
tallied in the picks that match meter 84.
[0058] FIG. 8 illustrates the outcome of the third and last random
generation. After the player hits spin button 74 a third time,
generation device 68a randomly generates the number two from the
possible numbers zero to nine. The random generation device 68d
generates randomly the number thirty-two from the possible numbers
thirty to thirty-nine. The random generation device 68b also
randomly generates a Super Joker symbol. That symbol reveals or
displays any remaining non-displayed symbols in the associated
column, namely, remaining non-displayed numbers seventy-one and
seventy-six. The Super Joker symbols are provided in any desired
percentage on any desired percentage of the random generation
devices or reels 68a to 68i (along with a desired percentage of
free spins).
[0059] As indicated by the spins remaining display 72, the player
has no spins remaining. The player has not completed or revealed a
group or row 162, 164 and 166 of selections and therefore does not
receive the known Slingo.TM. award associated therewith. The player
has also not received or achieved a threshold number of Super
Jokers (typically, four) to win an award on that front. In
alternative embodiments, however, the player wins an award for each
Super Joker accumulated. The player, in any event, still has an
opportunity to win one or more bonus awards for matching the
player-picked numbers of fifteen and fifty-four. In one embodiment,
if a free spin occurs on any reel, an additional spin would be
provided to the player to enable the player to accumulate more
hits.
[0060] To that end, gaming device 10 can stop the game temporarily
to enable the player to play one of the bonus games and achieve a
bonus award in connection with a player/game match. In that case,
after play of the bonus game the player returns to the Brasil
Slingo.TM. base game if the player has a remaining spin. In an
alternative embodiment, gaming device 10 accumulates any matches,
and the player plays the bonus game for each of the accumulated
matches when the base Brasil Slingo.TM. game ends.
[0061] FIG. 2 illustrates various types of bonus games of the
present invention. Display device 14 is in one embodiment a video
monitor, wherein the bonus game is carried out on that video
monitor. Display device 14 in one embodiment, however, includes at
least one mechanical award generation device. FIG. 2 illustrates
three possible mechanical configurations. The present invention is
not limited to those three embodiments.
[0062] Display device 14 in one embodiment includes a spinning
wheel 86. Wheel 86 includes an indicator 88 and a set of values 90.
Either the wheel and displayed values 90 rotate or the indicator 88
rotates to generate randomly one of the values 90. The bonus award
can coincide directly with one of the values 90 or be based upon
same.
[0063] Display device 14 alternatively or additionally includes a
set of reels 92 that spin and generate a plurality of numbers on
those reels. The numbers can be added together to provide the bonus
award to the player. Alternatively, one or more, but less than all
of the displayed numbers, are provided to the player as an award.
In a still further alternative embodiment, the number created by
the reels, such as 312, is the award or is a basis for the
award.
[0064] Display device 14 alternatively or additionally includes the
display 94. Display 94 includes a translating indicator 96 and a
plurality of displayed values 98. Indicator 96 moves back and forth
and alternately points to or indicates one of the values 98. The
player's bonus award corresponds directly to an indicated one of
the values 98 or is based on same.
[0065] The player's ultimate bonus award is an award from one of or
any combination of the electromechanical displays 86, 92 and 94.
Upon receiving the bonus award, the player either initiates another
random generation of the current base Slingo.TM. game, initiates
another base Slingo.TM. game via one of the input devices 18 or
cashes out via an input device 18.
[0066] Referring now to FIG. 9, one display of the Slingo.TM. game
of the present invention is illustrated on display device 16. The
display includes the groups 62, 64 and 68 of symbols, which are
initially not masked. The player here is able to see the numbers
that the player marks or designates for potential bonus play. In
the illustrated embodiment, player 88 marks or selects the
thirty-four, forty-eight and sixty-seven symbols 160d, 160g, 160w,
respectively.
[0067] Spins remaining meter 72 shows that the player receives
initially three spins. Spins played meter 92 shows that the player
has currently played no spins in the game. Free spins remaining
meter 94 shows that the player has currently accumulated no free
spins. Accordingly, the player has played no free spins as
indicated by meter 96. The player accumulates free spins by
generating a free spin or B5 symbols on one of the reels 68a to
68i.
[0068] The symbols BS, 13, 23, 33, 42, J, J, J and 82 shown
initially on reels 68a to 68i are regenerated once the player
presses the spin reels selection 74. That selection is enabled once
the player selects the allotted, i.e., three numbers, for bonus
play. Message 98 informs the player to make such selection. The
numbers thirty-four, sixty-seven and forty-eight selected by player
88 are suitably visually marked as such by a change of color,
pattern, etc.
[0069] A bonus win meter 90 is provided that shows points
accumulated for any of the above described achievements, such as
for matching all numbers in a column, in a row, on the board, in a
pattern, for accumulating Super Jokers, etc.
[0070] The bonus win shown in the meter is then incremented by any
amount achieved from playing one or more of the electromechanical
bonus games described as shown a number of times based on how many
player picked numbers have been matched via the spinning of reels
68a to 68i. In one embodiment, after each of the spins of reels 68a
to 68i has been executed, the spin input 74 changes to show the
player how many matches between the generated numbers or symbols
have occurred. Such tally provides the basis for or equals the
number of bonus spins or "Slingo.TM. spins" are shown in converted
meter 74.
[0071] The Brasil Slingo.TM. game uses numbers. The present
invention contemplates using other symbols besides numbers to
produce a substantially similar game to the one discussed herein.
For example, generation device 68a could generate and display a
fruit from a set of fruits. Device 68b could generate an automobile
from a set of automobiles. Device 68c could generate a fish from a
set of different fish, etc.
[0072] The provision of awards is the same whether symbols or
numbers are used. If a group of symbols is generated, the player
wins. The game still uses and provides awards for accumulated Super
Jokers. The player also receives a bonus award for picking
selections having symbols that are matched by symbols generated via
the devices. It should be appreciated that selections and
generators can be arranged and associated in any suitable manner.
Any desirable number of each can also be displayed.
[0073] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred 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 invention and without diminishing its intended
advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and
modifications be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *