U.S. patent application number 10/959686 was filed with the patent office on 2005-04-28 for image alignment gaming device and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to Atlantic City Coin & Slot Service Company, Inc.. Invention is credited to Henshaw, Lawrence M., Seelig, Jerald C..
Application Number | 20050090306 10/959686 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34528526 |
Filed Date | 2005-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050090306 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Seelig, Jerald C. ; et
al. |
April 28, 2005 |
Image alignment gaming device and method
Abstract
In at least one embodiment, the present invention relates to a
gaming device that includes a game display having at least one
display section. The gaming device also includes a game controller
adapted to display images in the display section. At least a
portion of the images comprise fractional images corresponding to
at least one composite image. The images appearing in the display
section are randomly selected. A prize is awarded when a plurality
of fractional images are aligned such that they form a composite
image.
Inventors: |
Seelig, Jerald C.; (Absecon,
NJ) ; Henshaw, Lawrence M.; (Hammonton, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
IAN F. BURNS & ASSOCIATES
1575 DELUCCHI LANE, SUITE 222
RENO
NV
89502
US
|
Assignee: |
Atlantic City Coin & Slot
Service Company, Inc.
Pleasantville
NJ
|
Family ID: |
34528526 |
Appl. No.: |
10/959686 |
Filed: |
October 4, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10959686 |
Oct 4, 2004 |
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10245623 |
Sep 16, 2002 |
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10245623 |
Sep 16, 2002 |
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09967055 |
Sep 28, 2001 |
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6814665 |
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10959686 |
Oct 4, 2004 |
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10811104 |
Mar 26, 2004 |
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10959686 |
Oct 4, 2004 |
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09967033 |
Sep 28, 2001 |
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6719630 |
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09967033 |
Sep 28, 2001 |
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09894197 |
Jun 27, 2001 |
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6802777 |
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10811104 |
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10664228 |
Sep 16, 2003 |
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10664228 |
Sep 16, 2003 |
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09968952 |
Oct 1, 2001 |
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6644663 |
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60241384 |
Oct 17, 2000 |
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60503325 |
Sep 15, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/016 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of playing a game comprising, but not necessarily in
the order shown: (A) placing a wager on a gaming device; (B)
starting a game on the gaming device; (C) generating a game
outcome; (D) displaying fractional images of a composite image on
the gaming device on at least a portion of a plurality of
changeable display sections formed in a matrix of m rows by n
columns; and (E) awarding a prize when the composite image is
formed by alignment of the fractional images.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the prize is dependent on which of
the plurality of changeable display sections the fractional images
align to form the composite image.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the prize is dependent on which
row of the matrix displays the composite image.
4. The method of claim 2, wherein the prize is dependent on which
column of the matrix displays the composite image.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising displaying fractional
images of a plurality of composite images on the gaming device on
at least a portion of the plurality of changeable display
sections.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the composite image is a
fractional image of another composite image.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the prize has a value, wherein a
greater value prize is awarded when multiple composite images
simultaneously appear on the matrix of changeable display
sections.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the value of the greater value
prize is dependent on the position of each multiple composite image
appearing on the matrix of changeable display sections.
9. The method of playing a game according to claim 1, wherein the
fractional images are carried on a display mechanism, the
displaying mechanism comprising a flexible band movably positioned
over at least one roller.
10. The method of playing a game according to claim 9, the display
mechanism causing the fractional images displayed by the display
mechanism to rotate about a vertical axis.
11. The method of playing a game according to claim 1, further
comprising awarding a partial prize when less than the composite
image is displayed, the partial prize and the prize having a value,
the value of the partial prize being less than the value of the
prize.
12. The method of playing a game according to claim 11, the value
of the partial prize corresponding to the number of fractional
images corresponding to the composite image appearing on the matrix
of changeable display sections.
13. The method of playing a game according to claim 1, further
comprising simultaneously displaying at least a second composite
image to the player and awarding a number of prizes to the player
corresponding to the composite images that are displayed.
14. A gaming device comprising: (A) a game display comprising at
least one display section; (B) a game controller adapted to display
images in the at least one display section, at least a portion of
the images comprising fractional images corresponding to a
plurality of composite images, the images appearing in the at least
one display section being randomly selected, wherein a prize is
awarded when a plurality of the fractional images are aligned such
that they form at least one of the plurality of composite
images.
15. The gaming device according to claim 14, wherein the game
display comprises a set of rotatable reels, each reel corresponding
to the at least one display section, each reel configured to
display at least one of the fractional images.
16. The gaming device according to claim 14, wherein the game
display comprises a flexible band of material disposed on at least
one roller, the band bearing at least a portion of the plurality of
images.
17. The gaming device according to claim 16, wherein the flexible
band comprises a series of slots and the roller comprises teeth
adapted to engage the slots.
18. The gaming device according to claim 16, wherein the band
rotates about a vertical axis.
19. The gaming device according to claim 14, wherein the game
display is a video display.
20. The gaming device according to claim 14, wherein a partial
prize is awarded when less than all of the fractional images
corresponding to a composite image are displayed, the prize and
partial prize having a value, the value of the partial prize being
less than the value of the prize.
21. The gaming device according to claim 20, the partial prize
corresponding to the number of fractional images corresponding to a
composite image that appears on the game display.
22. The gaming device of claim 14, wherein the at least one display
section may display fractional images corresponding to more than
one of the plurality of composite images.
23. The gaming device according to claim 14, wherein at least one
display section comprises a plurality of display sections, wherein
the plurality of composite images may simultaneously be displayed
on the game display.
24. The gaming device of claim 14, wherein the game display
comprises a plurality of rotating wheels.
25. The gaming device of claim 24, wherein the plurality of
rotating wheels are concentric.
26. A gaming device comprising: (A) a housing; (B) a game display
associated with the housing, the game display adapted to present a
plurality of images to a game player; (C) at least a first display
mechanism associated with the game display, the first display
mechanism comprising: (a) at least one roller; (b) a flexible band
wrapped around at least one roller, the flexible band bearing a
plurality of indicia, at least one of the plurality of indicia
being a fractional image of a composite image; (c) an actuator
connected to the at least one roller and adapted to drive the at
least one roller, thereby moving the flexible band; (D) a
controller in communication with the first display mechanism, the
controller adapted to cause the first display mechanism to display
at least one of the plurality of indicia corresponding to a
randomly determined game outcome.
27. The gaming device of claim 26 wherein the game outcome
comprises a first game outcome whereby the controller causes the
first display mechanism to display at least one of the fractional
images of the composite image, wherein at least one of the
fractional images is positioned proximate at least a second
fractional image corresponding to the composite image, whereby a
player viewing the proximate fractional images will see the
composite image, the first game outcome entitling the player to a
prize.
28. The gaming device of claim 27 wherein the second fractional
image does not appear on the first display mechanism.
29. The gaming device of claim 27 wherein the prize has a value,
the game outcome comprising a second game outcome where less than
all of the fractional images corresponding to the composite image
are displayed to the player, the second game outcome entitling the
player to a partial prize, the partial prize having a value less
than that of the prize.
30. The gaming device of claim 29, wherein the value of the partial
prize corresponds to a number of the fractional images
corresponding to the composite image that is displayed to the
player.
31. The gaming device of claim 26 wherein the flexible band
comprises a series of slots on the periphery of the band, the at
least one roller comprises a plurality of teeth, whereby the
plurality of teeth engage the series of slots.
32. The gaming device of claim 26, further comprising at least a
second display mechanism, wherein the first and second display
mechanisms are arranged to form an m by n matrix where m and n are
integers.
33. The gaming device of claim 32 wherein at least one of m and n
is greater than one.
34. The gaming device of claim 33 wherein both m and n are greater
than one.
35. The gaming device of claim 32 wherein the prize has a value,
the value of the prize depending on which matrix positions the
composite image appears.
36. The gaming device of claim 26 wherein a plurality of composite
images are simultaneously presented to the player.
37. The gaming device of claim 36 wherein a prize is awarded to the
player for each of the plurality of composite images displayed.
38. The gaming device of claim 37 wherein the player is entitled to
a second prize when the plurality of composite images are
simultaneously displayed, the prize and second prize having a
value, the value of the second prize being greater than the value
of the prize.
39. The gaming device of claim 37, wherein the second prize has a
value, the value of the second prize depending on the position of
the plurality of composite images.
40. The gaming device of claim 26 wherein the flexible band is
linear.
41. The gaming device of claim 26 wherein the flexible band is at
least partially circular.
42. A gaming method comprising, but not necessarily in the order
shown: (A) allowing a player to place a wager and play a game of
chance; (B) initiating the game of chance; (C) determining a game
outcome; (D) moving at least a first flexible band, at least a
portion of the first flexible band being viewable by the player,
the first flexible band bearing a plurality of indicia, at least
one of the plurality of indicia on the first flexible band
comprising at least a first fractional image corresponding to a
composite image; (E) if the game outcome comprises a first game
outcome: (a) displaying the composite image to the player including
the first fractional image corresponding thereto; and (b) awarding
the player a first prize.
43. The gaming method of claim 42, the composite image comprising a
plurality of fractional images, further comprising, if the game
outcome comprises a second game outcome: (a) displaying at least
the first fractional image but less than the plurality of
fractional images corresponding to the composite image; and (b)
awarding the player a second prize.
44. The gaming method of claim 43 wherein the first and second
prize each has a value and the value of the second prize is less
than the value of the first prize.
45. The gaming method of claim 42, further comprising: (A) moving
at least a second flexible band, at least a portion of the second
flexible band being viewable by the player; (B) displaying the
viewable portions of the first and second flexible bands to the
player in a matrix of m rows and n columns, where m an n are
integers and at least one of m and n is greater than one.
46. The gaming method of claim 45 wherein m and n are greater than
one.
47. The gaming method of claim 45 wherein the value of the first
prize depends on the position in the matrix of the fractional image
corresponding to composite image.
48. The gaming method of claim 45 further comprising displaying at
least two composite images by aligning a plurality of fractional
images, including the first fractional image.
49. The gaming method of claim 48, further comprising awarding a
second prize when the at least two composite images are formed on
the game, the first and second prizes having a value, the value of
the second prize being greater than the value of the first
prize.
50. The gaming method of claim 48, further comprising awarding
second prizes for each of the at least two composite images
displayed to the player.
51. A gaming device comprising: (A) housing means for holding
gaming components; (B) display means for presenting a game to a
player; (C) display mechanism means for displaying a plurality of
indicia to the player, the plurality of indicia comprising at least
a first fractional image corresponding to a composite image; (D)
controller means for determining a game outcome and causing the
display mechanism means to display an image corresponding to the
game outcome.
52. The gaming device of claim 51 wherein the display mechanism
means comprises flexible band means for movably displaying the
plurality of indicia to the player.
53. The gaming device of claim 51 wherein the display mechanism
means comprises a first spinnable wheel means, the plurality of
indicia appearing on a face of the spinnable wheel.
54. The gaming device of claim 53 further comprising a second
spinnable wheel means, the plurality of indicia appearing on the
face of the second spinnable wheel means, wherein the first and
second spinnable wheel means are in a concentric relationship.
55. The gaming device of claim 51 wherein the game controller means
is configured to produce a first game outcome wherein the display
mechanism means displays the first fractional image proximate to a
second fractional image such that the player views the composite
image.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is:
[0002] I. a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/245,623 filed on Sep. 16, 2002, which:
[0003] 1. is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 09/967,055 filed on Sep. 28, 2001;
[0004] A. claims priority of U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/241,384, filed on Oct. 17, 2000; and
[0005] II. a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 10/811,104, filed on Mar. 26, 2004, which:
[0006] 1. claims priority of U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/503,325, filed on Sep. 15, 2003;
[0007] 2. is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.
09/967,033, filed on Sep. 28, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,630,
issued on Apr. 13, 2004, which:
[0008] A. is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/894,197, filed on Jun. 27, 2001;
[0009] 3. is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Ser. No.
10/664,228, filed Sep. 16, 2003;
[0010] A. which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/968,952, filed on Oct. 1, 2001,
which is now U.S. Pat. No. 6,644,663, issued Nov. 11, 2003; and
[0011] 4. is continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 10/245,623, filed on Sep. 16, 2002, which:
[0012] A. is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 09/967,055 filed on Sep. 28, 2001, which:
[0013] a. claims priority of U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/241,384, filed on Oct. 17, 2000.
[0014] All of these applications are hereby expressly incorporated
by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0015] This invention relates to gaming devices and, more
particularly, to a gaming device that adds to player excitement and
satisfaction.
BACKGROUND
[0016] Many types of slot and video gaming machines have been
designed over the years. The traditional slot machine has a series
of annular reels disposed in a side-by-side relationship that
rotate separately about a common axis. The reels can be implemented
mechanically or visually on a video display driven by a computer.
The game players score or winnings are indicated by indicia on the
peripheral surfaces of the reels, which may align in any of a
number of different combinations following a period of rotation of
the reels. Players of gaming apparatus typically find it enjoyable
to have a variety of different forms of gaming apparatus available.
For this purpose, slot machines of the spinning reel type have been
provided with a variety of different graphics, shapes, sound
effects and scoring systems. Gaming machines that are more
interesting generate more player excitement and in turn are played
longer resulting in more revenue for the game operator.
[0017] Unfortunately, the similarity of slot machines poses a
problem for slot machine manufacturers in differentiating their
machines from competitors. Modifying slot machines to enhance
player enjoyment is not beneficial if the basic geometry and
function of the visual components of the machine is retained.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 5,722,891 to Inoue appears to suggest a slot
machine having a plurality of rotatable mechanical reels. Inoue
purports to describe an embodiment where the reels are rotatable
about a vertical axis. However, Inoue appears to use standard
images on the reels of this embodiment.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 6,302,791 to Frohm et al. purports to suggest
a slot machine with a high volatility index for awarding high value
prizes. It appears that, in at least one embodiment, Frohm may
suggest a column of mechanical reels rotatable about a vertical
axis where a plurality of fractional images may be aligned to form
a composite image. However, it appears that Frohm suffers from
several drawbacks.
[0020] It appears that Frohm is designed only to display one
composite image. Frohm also appears to be limited to a single
column of reels. Finally, the reels of the Frohm device appear to
be spaced quite far apart. The spaces between the images in Frohm
make it more difficult for players to see the composite image
formed by the fractional images.
[0021] The 1936 Groetchen HIGH STAKES gumball vender appears to
have three mechanical reels bearing fractional image of a race
horse ridden by a jockey. See Marshall Fey, Slot Machines: A
Pictorial History of the First 100Years, 169 Liberty Belle Books,
Reno, Nev. (4.sup.th ed. 1994). It appears that the goal of the
game was to align three fractional horse images of the same color.
While HIGH STAKES appears to have used fractional images, the
machine always formed the same basic image because each reel
appears to have borne only images corresponding to a fractional
image, differing only in color.
[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,420 to Gutknecht purports to describe a
gaming device having a two-sided coin having two rotatable pieces.
Because the device of Gutknecht device can only display four
possible outcomes, its usefulness is quite limited. U.S. Pat. No.
5,749,576 to Heinen et al. appears to suggest a similar device.
However, Heinen appears even more limited than Gutknecht, with the
device only able to form a whole image or not.
[0023] U.S. Pat. No.5,373,440 to Cohen et al. purports to describe
an advertising device whereby a player may be awarded goods or
services for achieving a winning combination of symbols. In one
embodiment, Cohen may suggest the winning combination being the
alignment of a plurality of fractional images to form a composite
image. However, Cohen is an advertising device and not a game of
chance. Cohen appears to be limited to a single row of images.
Additionally, Cohen specifically states that the use of fractional
images is not preferred. Finally, Cohen appears to suggest that the
game display is computer generated and does not appear to suggest
how mechanical reels could be closely spaced together to avoid the
spacing problems discussed in conjunction with Frohm.
[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 6,095,921 to Walker et al. purports to suggest
a gaming device having a plurality of wheels bearing various
shapes. It appears that the goal of the game is to align images on
the wheels in order to form the image of a star. It appears that
only one composite image may be formed by the device. In addition,
Walker does not appear to enable a mechanical version of the
game.
[0025] A current unmet need exists for a gaming device that is
different than previous slot machines in order to provide game
players with a more exciting and desirable gaming experience.
SUMMARY OF ONE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
[0026] Advantages of One or More Embodiments of the Present
Invention
[0027] The various embodiments of the present invention may, but do
not necessarily, achieve one or more of the following
advantages:
[0028] provide a gaming device that adds to player excitement and
satisfaction;
[0029] provide a gaming device that is interesting to players,
resulting in longer playing time;
[0030] provide a gaming device that is readily distinguishable from
conventional slot machines;
[0031] provide a gaming device that awards a prize when several
fractional images are assembled into a composite image;
[0032] provide a matrix of displays that may be used to form one or
more integrated images;
[0033] provide a novel use for flexible band displays;
[0034] provide a gaming device where whole images may be formed by
aligning fractional images appearing on one or more wheels;
[0035] provide a gaming device capable of simultaneously forming a
plurality of composite images from a plurality of fractional
images;
[0036] provide a game whereby a player may be awarded multiple
prizes for simultaneously forming a plurality of composite images
from a plurality of fractional images;
[0037] provide a game whereby a player may be awarded a prize for
simultaneously forming a plurality of composite images from a
plurality of fractional images;
[0038] provide a mechanism for placing images in close proximity to
one another; and
[0039] provide a gaming device that may form a plurality of
composite images from a plurality of fractional images.
[0040] These and other advantages of the present invention may be
realized by reference to the remaining portions of the
specification, claims, and abstract.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ONE EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0041] In at least one embodiment, the present invention relates to
a gaming device that includes a game display having at least one
display section. The gaming device also includes a game controller
adapted to display images in the display section. At least a
portion of the images comprise fractional images corresponding to
at least one composite image. The images appearing in the display
section are randomly selected. A prize is awarded when a plurality
of fractional images are aligned such that they form a composite
image.
[0042] In other embodiments, the present invention relates to a
method of playing a game. According to the inventive method, a
wager is placed on a gaming device and a game is started. A game
outcome is generated. Images are displayed on the game display in
at least a portion of a plurality of changeable display sections
formed in a matrix of m rows and n columns. A fractional image of a
composite image is displayed in at least a portion of the
changeable display sections. A prize is awarded when a composite
image is formed by the alignment of fractional images appearing in
the changeable display sections.
[0043] The above description sets forth, rather broadly, a summary
of at least one embodiment of the present invention so that the
detailed description that follows may be better understood and
contributions of the present invention to the art may be better
appreciated. Some of the embodiments of the present invention may
not include all of the features or characteristics listed in the
above summary. There are, of course, additional features of the
invention that will be described below and will form the subject
matter of claims. In this respect, before explaining at least one
preferred embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited in its application to
the details of the construction and to the arrangement of the
components set forth in the following description or as illustrated
in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and
of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to
be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein
are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as
limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] FIG. 1 is substantially a front view of a gaming device in
accordance with the present invention in which the image displayed
is a composite image.
[0045] FIGS. 2A-2F are substantially perspective views of display
devices for use with the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 3 is substantially a front view of a matrix display of
the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 4 is substantially a front view of the gaming device of
FIG. 1 in which the image is not aligned.
[0048] FIG. 5 is substantially a front view of a matrix display of
the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 6 is substantially a flow chart showing the operation
of the gaming device of FIG. 1.
[0050] FIG. 7 is substantially a front view of an alternative
embodiment of a gaming device in which the present invention is
used as a bonus game.
[0051] FIG. 8 is substantially a flow chart showing the operation
of the bonus gaming device of FIG. 7.
[0052] FIG. 9 is substantially a front view of an alternative
embodiment of a gaming device in accordance with the present
invention.
[0053] FIG. 10 is substantially a front view of another embodiment
of a gaming device.
[0054] FIG. 11 is substantially a flow chart showing the operation
of the gaming device of FIG. 9.
[0055] FIG. 12 is substantially a flow chart showing the operation
of the gaming device of FIG. 9 when used as a bonus game in
conjunction with a primary game.
[0056] FIG. 13 is substantially a flow chart showing the operation
of the gaming device of FIG. 10.
[0057] FIG. 14 is substantially a flow chart showing the operation
of the gaming device of FIG. 10 when used as a bonus game in
conjunction with a primary game.
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0058] In the following detailed description of the preferred
embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which
form a part of this application. The drawings show, by way of
illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be
practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be
utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from
the scope of the present invention.
[0059] Gaming Device
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, a gaming device 10 is shown.
Gaming device 10 may comprise a housing (or case) 12, a game
display 50 having several display sections 52, a lever 14, selector
buttons 16, a coin acceptor 18, a coin bin 20 and a game controller
22 (generically represented) adapted to control at least one
display mechanism (not shown in FIG. 1). The display mechanism may
cause one or more fractional (or partial) image 60 to be displayed
in a particular display section or sections 52. When properly
aligned, fractional images 60 may form a composite image 62. By
composite image 62, Applicants mean the image 62 formed by aligning
the constituent fractional images 60 of the composite image 62. For
example, in FIG. 1, the composite image 62 of a girl's face is
formed by alignment of the fractional images 60 corresponding to
the top, middle, and bottom portions of the girl's face.
[0061] Housing 12 contains the gaming device components. Coin
acceptor 18 accepts value from a game player, generally to be
converted to credits on gaming device 10. Coin acceptor 18 may be
configured to also accept tokens, paper currency, and vouchers. In
addition, a card reader (not shown) may be included for accepting
credit cards, ATM cards, player tracking cards, smart cards, and
the like. A coin bin 20, which may be mounted below the housing 12,
holds coins that may be dispensed after a winning game event has
occurred. Of course, the present invention may also be used in
devices that do not dispense currency. Lever 14 may be pulled by
the game player to start the game. Alternatively the player may
initiate a game by using a selector button 16.
[0062] Display 50 is shown with three display sections 52. Of
course, more or less display sections could be used. In addition,
display sections 52 are shown arranged in a 3 by 1 matrix (3 rows
and 1 column). The present invention is not limited to any
particular configuration of display sections 52. For example,
display sections 52 may be arranged in an m by n matrix, where m is
the number of rows, n is the number of columns, m and n are
integers, and at least one of m and n is greater than 1. Non-linear
arrangements could also be used, for example an image might be
formed using quadrants, halves, or other portions of a circle.
[0063] In certain embodiments only one display section 52 may be
movable or changeable. For example, the bottom half image of a
composite figure might be painted or otherwise depicted on the
surface of display 50. In contrast, the top half image of the same
composite figure could be displayed by display mechanism utilizing
a display section 52 that is changeable. Specifically, in the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the images 60 appearing in top
and bottom display sections 52 could be depicted on display 50 with
only the middle of the girl's face appearing in a display section
52 that is changeable.
[0064] The images 60 displayed on display sections 52 may be
carried by one or more display mechanisms. The display mechanism
may be a mechanical spinning reel, a video display, a video display
that simulates mechanical spinning reels, a mechanical moveable
flexible band of material, or other suitable display device.
Display sections 52 are shown oriented, or aligned, vertically.
However, horizontal, linear, at least partially circular, diagonal,
or other arrangements could be used.
[0065] In at least some embodiments, it may be desirable to place
display sections 52 as close to one another as possible. Close
proximity of fractional images 60 may aid players in visualizing
the composite image 62 formed by the fractional images 60 and make
gaming device 10 more aesthetically pleasing.
[0066] Traditional mechanical reel assemblies (such as typically
used in slot machines) are limited in how closely they can be
placed together by their chassis and other component parts. A reel
shelf that allows reels to be placed more closely to one another
than conventional reel assemblies can be found in U.S. Pat. No.
6,644,663, as well as in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/664,228, the entire disclosures of which are hereby expressly
incorporated by reference.
[0067] It also may be beneficial to dispense completely with
traditional reel mechanisms in favor of display devices that rotate
a flexible band of material about one or more rollers. A number of
suitable devices may be obtained from Starpoint Electrics Ltd. of
Chessington, UK. These band displays produce smooth and quiet
operation and may present a visually different look from
traditional reel slots machines. In addition, these band mechanisms
may be constructed so that they may be placed very closely
together.
[0068] As already discussed, in gaming devices 10 presenting
fractional images 60, it may be beneficial to place the fractional
images 60 as closely together as possible. For example, FIG. 2A
illustrates a display mechanism 200 consisting of a band of
flexible material 202 that passes over a plurality of rollers 210.
Rollers 210 may be mounted to a chassis 208. Band 202 may bear a
number of different indicia 206. Indicia 206 may be traditional
slot machine images, such as fruits, bars, or 7s, fractional
images, or any other image desired by a game designer. At least one
roller 210 may be connected to an actuator 214, which may be a
motor, such as a dc motor, servo motor, stepper motor, or the like.
In at least one embodiment, actuator 214 is a standard 48 step
bi-directional 12 volt dc motor. Actuator 214 may be in
communication with a controller (not shown).
[0069] One or more illumination sources 212 may be placed behind
band 202 in order to illuminate indicia 206. Illumination sources
212 may be incandescent lights, fluorescent lights, light emitting
diodes, or any other suitable light source. Illumination sources
212 may also be connected to a controller (not shown) in order to
create interesting lighting effects.
[0070] Rollers 210 may have toothed portions 222 for engaging holes
or slots 224 on flexible band 202. The use of this tractor feed
system may aid in securing band 202 and provide a secure actuation
mechanism. Display mechanism 200 may include an optical sensor (not
shown), or other position-sensing device, for determining the
position of band 202. Display mechanism 200 is available as model
FS1RM from Starpoint Electrics Ltd.
[0071] Although display mechanism 200 positions band 202 at an
incline, other configurations may be used. For example, FIG. 2B
illustrates a display mechanism 250 that may be constructed in a
similar fashion to display mechanism 200. However, display
mechanism 250 positions band 202 in a curved or arced manner.
Display mechanism 270, shown in FIG. 2C, is similar to display
mechanism 250, also displaying band 202 in a curved or arced
manner, but has a more compact design than display mechanism 250.
Display mechanisms 250 and 270 are available from Starpoint
Electrics Ltd. as models FS2RM and FS3RM, respectively.
[0072] Another display mechanism, 280, is illustrated in FIG. 2D.
Display mechanism 280 is extremely compact and well suited for use
in the present invention. In particular, if game display 50 (FIG.
1) contains display sections 52 (FIG. 1) arranged in a m by n
matrix, a display mechanism 280 may be used for each cell, or
display section 52, of the matrix. The compact nature of display
mechanism 280 allows each display mechanism 280 to be placed
closely together, aiding a player in viewing a plurality of
fractional images 60 (FIG. 1) as a composite image 62 (FIG. 1).
Display mechanism 280 is available from Starpoint Electrics Ltd. as
part number FM1. The display mechanisms 200, 250, 270, 280 shown in
FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D allow for a modular design that allows
various displays 50 to be constructed however a game designer
desires.
[0073] Although display mechanisms 200, 250, 270, and 280 provide
similarly shaped bands 202, the bands 202 of the present invention
are not so limited and can be adapted to provide a variety of
configurations or shapes. For example, as best illustrated in FIG.
2E, display mechanism 290 includes a band 202 having a
semi-circular shape. One such suitable display mechanism 290 is the
1FD Flexi Disc manufactured by Sega SA and available from Starpoint
Electrics Ltd.
[0074] As further shown in FIG. 2E, band 202 has a plurality of
indicia 206 representing head portions of various figures that are
arranged in a plurality of sections 292. A prize may be awarded
when the player matches the head portion with a corresponding
bottom portion 294, or the prize could be paid depending on which
head portion was combined with which bottom portion 294. Of course,
other representations and game play methods may be used without
departing from the scope of the present invention. It is understood
that a variety of displays 50 may be constructed by utilizing
various combinations of display mechanisms 200, 250, 270, 280, 290
including bands 202 of the same and/or different shape.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 2F, fractional images or indicia 414 and
416 may also be displayed on the faces of spinnable wheels 408,
412. In this embodiment, composite images are formed by aligning
the fractional images, or indicia 408, 412 appearing on concentric
wheels 408, 412. For example, indicia 414, which may be the bottom
of a figure or icon, may be shown on an inner wheel 412 and other
indicia 416, which may be the top of the. figure or icon, may be
displayed on an outer wheel 408.
[0076] Outer wheel 408 may be attached to an outer wheel actuator
422 and inner wheel 412 attached to an inner wheel actuator 424.
Wheel display 400 may be supported by a chassis 420. For
embodiments with two concentric wheels, a suitable display
mechanism may be part 1CRD available from Starpoint Electrics Ltd.
An additional mechanism that may be used for concentric wheel
displays is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,105,962. Of course, more
concentric wheels, and other types of display mechanisms, may be
used in conjunction therewith without departing from the scope of
the present invention.
[0077] Referring back to FIG. 1, the axis of rotation of display
sections 52 may be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. FIG. 1 shows
displays sections 52 having a vertical axis of rotation 54. If the
game player is standing or sitting upright facing the display 50,
axis of rotation 54 is parallel to the game player. At least a
portion of display sections 52 are capable of displaying a
fractional image 60.
[0078] Fractional image 60 is a portion of the composite image 62.
The image 62 can be a wide variety of subjects such as pictures or
paintings including movie stars, celebrities, animals, famous
landmarks, musicians, vehicles, buildings, politicians, etc. The
composite image 62 is a contiguous recognizable image 62. If
desired a pay line (not shown) can be added to the display 50 to
aid the player in seeing the alignment of the fractional images
60.
[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 3, display sections 52 may contain
fractional images 504 or whole images 506. For example, fractional
images 504 and whole images 506, including typical slot machine
images, such as fruit 508, bars 510, and 7's 514, may be displayed
on the same display 500. In addition, more than one composite image
62 may be displayed on display 500. Accordingly, each display
section 52 may be configured to display fractional images 504
corresponding to more than one composite image 62. Therefore games
may be designed where prizes are awarded not just based on forming
a composite image 62, but which depend on which composite image 62
is formed.
[0080] In the case where display 500 has a matrix of display
sections 52, a composite image 62 may be formed along a row (image
520), column (image 522), diagonal (image 524), or other portion of
the matrix. In addition, a composite image 62 can be formed by
having all of the display sections 52 show a portion of the
composite image 62. If the matrix, or other arrangement of display
50, is large enough, more than one composite image 62 can be
displayed at the same time.
[0081] Not every display section 52 of display 500 needs to display
a fractional image 504 in order for a composite image 62 to be
formed. For example, in FIG. 1, a composite image 62 could be
formed using two of the display sections 52, the center and either
the top or bottom display section 52.
[0082] In embodiments having a matrix (or other suitable
arrangement) of display sections 52, such as illustrated in FIG. 3,
multiple composite images 62 may be simultaneously formed by
fractional images 504 on the same display 500. Multiple composite
images 62 may be used to indicate one prize or may be used to award
multiple prizes. For example, FIG. 3 illustrates display 500 having
a composite image 62 of a crown 520 above the composite image 62 of
a head 526.
[0083] For example, forming a single composite image 62, such as
image 526, might entitle a player to a small or moderate bonus.
Forming a plurality of composite images 62 that are integrated,
such as images 526 and 520, might entitle the player to a larger
jackpot or progressive prize. Although the composite image 62 of a
crown 520 and the composite image 62 of a head 526 are related
composite images 62, this relatedness is not required.
[0084] FIG. 1 illustrates a composite image 62 broken up into three
fractional images 60. If desired, composite image 62 could be
broken into a larger or smaller number of fractional images 60. A
conventional game controller 22 may be used to control the
displaying of the fractional images 60. Game controller 22 may
contain a random number generator (not shown) to cause the display
mechanism such as mechanical reels (not shown) or video display
(not shown) to generate a particular combination of fractional
images 60.
[0085] During game play, a game player inserts currency or currency
equivalents into coin acceptor 18, places a wager, and then pulls
lever 14 (or presses the appropriate selector button 16) to start
play. If game display 50 includes a display mechanism, such as
mechanical reels, the reels may spin or rotate about their
rotational axis 54. Game controller 22 selects a fractional image
60 to display in each display section 52.
[0086] In at least one embodiment, a player may be allowed to
provide input to influence display 50. For example, the player may
be allowed to activate one of the selector buttons 16 during a game
round to stop one or more display mechanisms from moving (or
otherwise displaying different images) and to stop on an image. In
certain embodiments, activation of a selector button 16 does not
influence the outcome of the game, but only determines when the
display mechanism begins to stop moving and eventually settles on a
particular, randomly determined, image.
[0087] If game display 50 includes a display mechanism, such as a
video display, the video display may simulate mechanical reels and
game controller 22 may select a fractional image 60 to display in
each display section 52. The game controller 22 can be configured
to automatically stop moving the display mechanism after a
predetermined time period has passed without the player activating
the player input device 16.
[0088] In FIG. 1, fractional images 60 line up to form a composite
image 62. In this example, the composite image 62 is a girl's face.
In FIG. 4, the fractional images 60 do not line up to form a
composite image 62. In FIG. 1, each fractional image 60
corresponding to the girl's head appears in the proper row of the
matrix. Display 50 could be configured so that the fractional image
60 corresponding to the top of the girl's head always appears, if
at all, in the top display section 52. Similarly, the middle and
lower portions of the girl's head could be configured to always
appear, if at all, in the corresponding display section 52. Of
course, the present invention embraces alternative configurations.
For example, rather than appearing in the top display section 52,
the fractional image 60 corresponding to the top of the girl's head
could be made to appear in the middle display section 52, as shown
in FIG. 4, or in other displays sections 52.
[0089] In some embodiments, when fractional images 60 in display
sections 52 form a composite image 62, a game-winning event may be
generated and the player may be awarded a prize in accordance with
a pay table. In some embodiments, when the fractional images 60
displayed in display sections 52 do not form a composite image 62,
a game losing event is generated, the game is ended, and the player
must place a new wager by depositing more coins, or using
accumulated credits, to play the game again. If desired, the payout
table can be structured to make a partial payout depending upon the
number of fractional images 60 that are properly aligned. For
example, if 2 of the 3 fractional images 60 are properly aligned,
the payout could be a percentage, such as 50 percent, of the payout
for having all 3 of the fractional images 60 properly aligned. An
award could be given for having even one fractional image 60 appear
on a display section 52 of display 50.
[0090] In certain embodiments, the location of a composite image 62
formed by fractional images 60 may be correlated to the value of a
prize. For example, consider a 3 by 3 matrix 600 (FIG. 5) of
display sections 52. A game (not shown) could be designed having a
horse race theme. The top row could correspond to a horse taking
first place in a race, the middle row to second place, and the
bottom row to third place (the rows could also correspond to win,
place, or show). If a composite image of a horse is formed in the
top row, the player might be entitled to a first prize. If the
composite image of the horse is formed on the middle or bottom row,
the player might receive a lesser prize.
[0091] Prizes could be awarded for having multiple composite images
formed at one time. For example, in the horse racing embodiment
described above, a player might be awarded a jackpot or progressive
prize for having horses appear in all three rows. Such a winning
event might correspond to a trifecta.
[0092] In other embodiments a number of fractional images 60 may be
assembled to form a number of composite images 62. Those composite
images 62 might themselves form another composite image 62. For
example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, a gaming device 10 (FIG. 1)
might be designed with a hamburger theme. Top row 604 of display
600 might have fractional images 60 corresponding to the top of a
hamburger bun 610. Bottom row 608 may have fractional images 60
representing the bottom of a hamburger bun 612. Middle row 606 may
have fractional images 60 representing a hamburger patty 614. The
player might be given different awards for forming the images of
one or more of bun sections 610 and 612 and hamburger patty 614
with a more valuable prize being awarded if the composite image 62
of a hamburger is formed.
[0093] Flowchart
[0094] Referring to FIG. 6, a flowchart 80 is shown. Flowchart 80
depicts the steps followed in playing a game on gaming device 10
(FIG. 1). A wager is placed by the game player at step 82 in order
to start game play on gaming device 10. At step 84, the player
pulls lever 14 in order to start the game. At step 85, the game
controller 22 determines which fractional images 60 are to be
displayed in each display section 52 and displays those fractional
images 60. Game controller 22 randomly selects the fractional image
60 to be displayed in each display section 52. Next, gaming device
10 moves to a decision step 86. At decision step 86, the number of
fractional images 60 that are aligned in the correct location or
display section 52 are determined. If the number of correctly
aligned fractional images 60 is equal to zero, a yes is returned
and the game progresses to step 94 where a losing event is
determined along with no pay out of an award. From step 94, the
game loops back to step 82 to allow the game player to place
another wager. If a no is returned at decision step 86, the game
moves to decision step 88.
[0095] At decision step 88 the number of fractional images 60 that
are aligned in the correct location or display section 52 is
compared to see if it is equal to one. In the case where the answer
is "yes" at step 88, the game progresses to step 96 where a partial
payout is determined. For example, if a wager of one dollar was
placed, the payout for correctly aligning one of the three
fractional images 60 could be 50 cents. From step 96, the game
loops back to step 82 to allow the game player to place another
wager. If a no is returned at decision step 88, the game moves to
decision step 90.
[0096] At decision step 90 the number of fractional images 60 that
are aligned in the correct location or display section is compared
to see if it is equal to two. In the case where a yes is returned
at step 90, the game progresses to step 98 where a partial payout
is determined and paid. For example, if a wager of one dollar was
placed, the payout for correctly aligning two of the three images
could be one dollar. From step 98, the game loops back to step 82
to allow the game player to place another wager. If a no is
returned at decision step 90, the game moves to step 92.
[0097] At step 92, the number of fractional images 60 that are
aligned in the correct location or display section is equal to
three, thereby forming a composite image. The game next moves to
step 100 where a full payout is determined and paid for a
game-winning event. For example, if a wager of one dollar was
placed, the payout for correctly aligning all of the three images
could be two dollars. From step 100, the game loops back to step 82
to allow the game player to place another wager.
[0098] Bonus Game Embodiment
[0099] The gaming device 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 is configured as
a primary game. The gaming device 10 can also be used as a bonus
game that is attached to another primary game. Referring to FIG. 7,
a bonus gaming device 120 is shown. Bonus gaming device 120
comprises a primary game 122 and a bonus game 124 mounted on top.
Primary game 122 can be almost any game. In FIG. 7, primary game
122 is shown as a conventional slot machine. Primary game 122
comprises several rotating reels 126 with a pay line 128 and that
is actuated by a lever 14. One or more meters or displays 130 tell
the game player their winnings and remaining playing credits. A
special symbol 132 is generated on pay line 128 to signify a bonus
qualifying or generating event. After a bonus qualifying event has
occurred the bonus game 124 becomes available for play. Bonus game
124 would then be played in a similar manner as to gaming device 10
(FIG. 1). The conventional slot machine triggers a bonus-qualifying
event that allows the game player the opportunity to play bonus
game 124 to win a bonus prize or payout.
[0100] Bonus Game Flowchart
[0101] Referring to FIG. 8, a flowchart 150 of the operation of
bonus gaming device 120 (FIG. 7) is shown. At step 152, a wager is
placed by the game player in order to start game play on primary
game 122. At step 154, the player plays the primary game 122. Next,
primary game 122 moves to a decision step 156. At decision step 156
the, game checks to see if the bonus-qualifying event has occurred.
If the bonus-qualifying event has not occurred, the game loops back
to step 152 to allow the player the opportunity to place another
wager and play the primary game 122 again. If the bonus-qualifying
event has occurred at step 156, the method continues to decision
step 158. At decision step 158, the player may elect to play the
bonus game 124 or return to the primary game 122. If the player
elects to return to the primary game 122, the game loops back to
step 152. If the player elects to play the bonus game 124, the game
proceeds to step 160. At step 160, the player plays the bonus game
124, which generates and displays either fractional 60 or composite
images 62. The operation at this point of the bonus game 124 is
identical to that of gaming device 10 of FIGS. 1 and 4. At step
162, the game player is then paid a payout depending upon the
number of fractional images 60 that are correctly aligned. The game
then loops back to step 152 to allow the player to play the primary
game 122 again.
[0102] Alternative Embodiment
[0103] Referring to FIG. 9, an alternative embodiment of a gaming
device 700 is shown. Gaming device 700 is similar to gaming device
10 of FIG. 1 with the addition of a spin or game play meter 702 and
a multiplier meter 710. Gaming device 700 comprises a case 12, game
play meter 702, multiplier meter 710, a game display 50 having
several or more display sections 52, a lever 14, selector buttons
16, a coin acceptor 18, a coin bin 20 and a game controller 22
adapted to control a plurality of fractional images 60 displayed in
the display sections 52. The fractional images 60 form a composite
image 62.
[0104] Game play meter 702 has several spin indicators 704 labeled
1 through 6 spins that are aligned vertically. Game play meter 702
may be shown as a voltage meter for example. Meter 702 is in
communication with game controller 22. The spin indicator 704
displays the number of times selected by game controller 22 that
the game is to be played or repeated for one wager. Spin indicator
704 displays a randomly generated integer for the number of times
that the game is to be played. For example, if gaming device 700
selects three (3) times to play the game, spin indicator 704 would
light up or otherwise indicate that three plays or spins of display
50 would occur. The spins would occur sequentially without the need
for the game player to pull lever 14. An award for each game is
generated in the same manner as in gaming device 10. That is, when
a composite image 62 is formed, a prize or award is generated. The
award from each game is added to obtain a cumulative award or
prize. The cumulative award or prize is displayed on meter 720. If
no award or prize is won in any of the spins, a consolation prize
may be generated by game controller 22 and awarded.
[0105] Multiplier meter 710 is located at the top of case 12.
Multiplier meter 710 selects and displays a multiplier that the
cumulative award or prize is to be multiplied by to obtain a total
prize that is then awarded to the game player. Multiplier meter 710
has several multiplier indicators 712 and an arrow 714. Multiplier
meter 710 is in communication with game controller 22. Game
controller 22 randomly selects a multiplier. Arrow 714 points to
the multiplier selected by game controller 22. Arrow 714 can be a
mechanical arrow that is rotated or can be one of several arrows
that light up to point to the selected multiplier. The selected
multiplier is multiplied by the cumulative award shown on meter 720
to obtain a total prize that is then paid to the player. The total
prize is shown on total prize meter 722. The total prize is added
to the game player's credit meter 724.
[0106] Gaming device 700 is shown as a primary game in FIG. 9.
Gaming device 700 could also be used as a bonus game. In the case
where gaming device 700 is used as a bonus game, it would replace
bonus game 124 in FIG. 7. Gaming device 700 would be mounted on top
of primary game 122.
[0107] Alternative Embodiment Flowchart
[0108] Referring to FIG. 11, a flowchart 300 is shown. Flowchart
300 depicts the steps followed in playing a game on gaming device
700 (FIG. 9). A wager is placed by the game player at step 302 in
order to start game play on gaming device 700. At step 304, game
controller 22 randomly selects a number of times to play a game on
gaming device 700. The number of games is displayed on game play
meter 702. At step 306, the game controller 22 determines which
fractional images 60 are to be displayed in each display section 52
and displays those fractional images 60. Game controller 22
randomly selects the fractional image 60 to be displayed in each
display section 52. At step 308, a base award is generated
depending upon the number of fractional images 60 that are
correctly aligned. The game then proceeds to decision step 310
where the number of games played is compared to the selected number
of times to play gaming device 700. If the number of times that
gaming device 700 has been played is not equal to the selected
number of times, the game loops back to step 306 where the
fractional images 60 are generated and displayed again. If the
number of times that gaming device 700 has been played is equal to
the selected number of times, the game proceeds to step 312. At
step 312 the award from each individual game played is added to
obtain a cumulative prize. The cumulative prize is displayed on
meter 720.
[0109] Next, the game proceeds to step 314 where game controller 22
randomly selects a multiplier. The multiplier is shown on
multiplier meter 710. At step 316, the multiplier is multiplied by
the cumulative prize to obtain a total prize. The total prize is
shown on total prize meter 722. Next, at step 318 the total prize
is displayed and paid. The game then returns to step 302 where the
game player is allowed to place another wager and play again.
[0110] Alternative Bonus Embodiment Flowchart
[0111] Referring to FIG. 12, a flowchart 800 is shown. Flowchart
800 depicts the steps followed in playing a game on gaming device
700 (FIG. 9) when it is used as a bonus game in conjunction with
primary game 122 (FIG. 7). A wager is placed by the game player at
step 302 in order to start game play on primary game 122. At step
802, the game player plays primary game 122. Next, at decision step
804 the game checks to see if a bonus-qualifying event has
occurred. If the bonus-qualifying event has not occurred, the game
loops back to step 302 to allow the player the opportunity to place
another wager and play the primary game 122 again. If the
bonus-qualifying event has occurred at step 804, the method
continues to step 304 to allow the player to play the bonus game on
gaming device 700. At step 304, game controller 22 randomly selects
a number of times to play a game on gaming device 700. The number
of games is displayed on meter 702. At step 306, the game
controller 22 determines which fractional images 60 are to be
displayed in each display section 52 and displays those fractional
images 60. Game controller 22 randomly selects the fractional image
60 to be displayed in each display section 52. At step 308, a base
award is generated depending upon the number of fractional images
60 that are correctly aligned. The game then proceeds to decision
step 310 where the number of times the game has been played is
compared to the selected number of times to play gaming device 700.
If the number of times that gaming device 700 has been played is
not equal to the selected number of times, the game loops back to
step 306 where the fractional images 60 are generated and displayed
again. If the number of times that gaming device 700 has been
played is equal to the selected number of times, the game proceeds
to step 312. At step 312 the award from each individual game played
is added to obtain a cumulative prize. The cumulative prize is
displayed on meter 720.
[0112] Next, the game proceeds to step 314 where game controller 22
randomly selects a multiplier. The multiplier is shown on
multiplier meter 710. At step 316, the multiplier is multiplied by
the cumulative prize to obtain a total prize. The total prize is
shown on total prize meter 722. Next, at step 318 the total prize
is displayed and paid. The game then returns to step 302 where the
game player is allowed to place another wager and play primary game
122 again.
[0113] Second Alternative Embodiment
[0114] Referring to FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of a gaming
device 750 is shown. Gaming device 750 is similar to gaming device
700 of FIG. 9 except that spin or game meter 702 (FIG. 9) is not
present. Gaming device 750 comprises a case 12, multiplier meter
710, a game display 50 having several display sections 52, a lever
14, selector buttons 16, a coin acceptor 18, a coin bin 20 and a
game controller 22 adapted to control a plurality of fractional
images 60 displayed in the display sections 52. The fractional
images 60 form a composite image 62.
[0115] Multiplier meter 710 is located at the top of case 12.
Multiplier meter 710 selects and displays a multiplier that the
award or prize in the game is to be multiplied by to obtain a total
prize that is then awarded to the game player. Multiplier meter 710
has several multiplier indicators 712 and an arrow 714. Multiplier
meter 710 is in communication with game controller 22. Game
controller 22 randomly selects a multiplier. Arrow 714 points to
the multiplier selected by game controller 22. Arrow 714 can be a
mechanical arrow that is rotated or can be one of several arrows
that light up to point to the selected multiplier. The selected
multiplier is multiplied by an award meter 720 to obtain a total
prize that is then paid to the player. The total prize is shown on
total prize meter 722. The total prize is added to the game
player's credit meter 724.
[0116] Gaming device 750 is shown as a primary game in FIG. 10.
Gaming device 750 could also be used as a bonus game. In the case
where gaming device 750 is used as a bonus game, it would replace
bonus game 124 in FIG. 7. Gaming device 750 would be mounted on top
of primary game 122 (FIG. 7).
[0117] Second Alternative Embodiment Flowchart
[0118] Referring to FIG. 13, a flowchart 900 is shown. Flowchart
900 depicts the steps followed in playing a game on gaming device
750. A wager is placed by the game player at step 302 in order to
start game play on gaming device 750. At step 306, gaming device
750 generates and displays the fractional images 60. Game
controller 22 randomly selects the fractional image 60 to be
displayed in each display section 52. At step 308, a base award is
generated depending upon the number of fractional images 60 that
are correctly aligned. The game then proceeds to step 314 where
game controller 22 randomly selects a multiplier. The multiplier is
shown on multiplier meter 710. At step 902, the multiplier is
multiplied by the base award or prize to obtain a total prize. The
total prize is shown on total prize meter 722. Next, at step 318
the total prize is displayed and paid. The game then returns to
step 302 where the game player is allowed to place another wager
and play again.
[0119] Second Alternative Bonus Embodiment Flowchart
[0120] Referring to FIG. 14, a flowchart 950 is shown. Flowchart
950 depicts the steps followed in playing a game on gaming device
750 when it is used as a bonus game in conjunction with primary
game 122 (FIG. 7). A wager is placed by the game player at step 302
in order to start game play on primary game 122. At step 802, the
game player plays primary game 122. Next, at decision step 804 the
game checks to see if a bonus-qualifying event has occurred. If the
bonus-qualifying event has not occurred, the game loops back to
step 302 to allow the player the opportunity to place another wager
and play the primary game 122 again. If the bonus-qualifying event
has occurred at step 804, the method continues to step 306 to allow
the player to play the bonus game on gaming device 750. At step
306, the game controller 22 determines which fractional images 60
are to be displayed in each display section 52 and displays those
fractional images 60. Game controller 22 randomly selects the
fractional image 60 to be displayed in each display section 52. At
step 308, a base award is generated depending upon the number of
fractional images 60 that are correctly aligned. The base award is
displayed on meter 720.
[0121] Next, the game proceeds to step 314 where game controller 22
randomly selects a multiplier. The multiplier is shown on
multiplier meter 710. At step 902, the multiplier is multiplied by
the base award to obtain a total prize. The total prize is shown on
total prize meter 722. Next, at step 318 the total prize is
displayed and paid. The game then returns to step 302 where the
game player is allowed to place another wager and play primary game
122 again.
Conclusion
[0122] Although the description above contains many specifications,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of
presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope
of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and
their legal equivalents rather than by the examples given.
* * * * *