U.S. patent application number 10/867269 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-16 for gaming machine having an enhanced game play scheme.
This patent application is currently assigned to WMS Gaming Inc.. Invention is credited to Englman, Allon G., Jaffe, Joel R., Rothschild, Wayne H..
Application Number | 20050130737 10/867269 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34652774 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050130737 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Englman, Allon G. ; et
al. |
June 16, 2005 |
Gaming machine having an enhanced game play scheme
Abstract
A gaming machine having an enhanced game play scheme is provided
where, in response to receipt of a second wager to select an
option, a player is provided with enhanced game play. Enhanced game
play may include (1) providing more frequent bonus game play, (2)
providing a larger bonus game value payout, (3) providing more
frequent bonus game play and providing a larger bonus game value
payout, (4) providing a larger or multiplied game value payout, (5)
providing a guaranteed value payout for a non-winning outcome, (6)
providing game features (7) providing a larger game value payout
based on a partial game outcome, (8) providing an extra wild symbol
capable of repositioning, and (9) providing a possibility of an
additional reel movement to reposition an extra reel symbol or (10)
providing a possibility of an extra pay line to include an extra
reel symbol to increase a value payout.
Inventors: |
Englman, Allon G.; (Chicago,
IL) ; Jaffe, Joel R.; (Evanston, IL) ;
Rothschild, Wayne H.; (Northbrook, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Michael J. Blankstein
WMS Gaming, Inc.
3401 N. California Ave.
Chicago
IL
60618
US
|
Assignee: |
WMS Gaming Inc.
|
Family ID: |
34652774 |
Appl. No.: |
10/867269 |
Filed: |
June 14, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10867269 |
Jun 14, 2004 |
|
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|
10731941 |
Dec 10, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/34 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3244 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/025 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
It is claimed:
1. A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine, the
wagering game having a plurality of winning outcomes, the gaming
machine including a display device and a gaming machine controller
having a processor and a memory, the display device displaying a
first array of symbols, the method comprising: providing at least
one buy-a-multiplier option to a player, the at least one
buy-a-multiplier option corresponding to a buy-a-multiplier outcome
having a multiplier number; detecting a buy-a-multiplier wager, the
buy-a-multiplier wager indicating player selection of the at least
one buy-a-multiplier option; displaying a game outcome of the
wagering game; and multiplying a value payout award by the
multiplier number to form a multiplied value payout if the game
outcome includes the buy-a-multiplier outcome.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising awarding the
multiplied value payout to the player.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the buy-a-multiplier outcome
comprises a predetermined outcome.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the buy-a-multiplier outcome
comprises at least one of the plurality of winning outcomes.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the buy-a-multiplier outcome is
randomly determined by the gaming machine controller.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the buy-a-multiplier outcome is
randomly determined by a server operatively coupled to the gaming
machine, the server having a server controller.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising detecting a game wager
to play the wagering game prior to the step of displaying the game
outcome.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the wagering game is selected
from the group consisting of a slot game, a video keno game, a
video poker game and a video black jack game.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising detecting a game wager
to play the wagering game prior to the step of providing the
buy-a-multiplier option to the player.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the game wager includes a
minimum criteria.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein displaying the game outcome
includes rotating and stopping a plurality of symbol bearing reels
to place symbols on the reels in a second array of symbols, and
wherein the minimum criteria includes player activation of a
maximum number of pay lines.
12. The method of claim 9, further comprising detecting a
qualifying event.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the qualifying event includes
one or more of a time of day, a day of the week, a player tracking
card insertion in the gaming machine, an identity of the player and
a minimum wager amount.
14. The method of claim 1, wherein the buy-a-multiplier wager
includes a game wager to play the wagering game.
15. The method of claim 1, wherein the multiplier number is
randomly determined by the gaming machine controller.
16. The method of claim 1, wherein the multiplier number is
randomly determined by a server operatively coupled to the gaming
machine, the server having a server controller.
17. A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine, the
wagering game having a plurality of winning outcomes, the gaming
machine including a display device and a controller having a
processor and a memory, the display device displaying a first array
of symbols, the method comprising: detecting a first wager from a
player to play the wagering game; providing a buy-a-multiplier
option to the player, the buy-a-multiplier option corresponding to
a pre-determined symbol having a multiplier number; detecting a
second wager, the second wager indicating player selection of the
buy-a-multiplier option; displaying a game outcome; and multiplying
a value payout by the multiplier number to form a multiplied value
payout if the game outcome includes one of the plurality of winning
outcomes having the pre-determined symbol.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising awarding the
multiplied value payout to the player.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein detecting the first wager
includes detecting a first credit amount corresponding to wagering
game play, and wherein detecting the second wager includes
detecting a second credit amount corresponding to the
buy-a-multiplier option.
20. The method of claim 17, wherein the first wager includes a
minimum criteria.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein displaying the game outcome
includes rotating and stopping a plurality of symbol bearing reels
to place symbols on the reels in a second array of symbols, and
wherein the minimum criteria includes player activation of a
maximum number of pay lines.
22. A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine, the
wagering game having a plurality of winning outcomes, the gaming
machine including a display device and a controller having a
processor and a memory, the display device displaying a first array
of symbols, the method comprising: detecting a first wager from a
player to play the wagering game; providing a plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options to the player, each of the plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options corresponding to a like pre-determined
symbol and one of a plurality of multiplier numbers, each of the
plurality of multiplier numbers corresponding to a different second
wager amount; detecting a second wager, the second wager indicating
player selection of one of the plurality of buy-a-multiplier
options; displaying a game outcome; and multiplying a portion of a
value payout by the multiplier number corresponding to the
buy-a-multiplier option selected by the player to form a multiplied
value payout if the game outcome includes one of the plurality of
winning outcomes having the like pre-determined symbol.
23. The method of claim 22, further comprising awarding the
multiplied value payout to the player.
24. The method of claim 22, wherein the plurality of multiplier
numbers comprise increasing number values, each of the increasing
number values corresponding to a respective increasing second wager
amount.
25. The method of claim 22, wherein detecting the first wager
includes detecting a first credit amount corresponding to wagering
game play, and wherein detecting the second wager includes
detecting a second credit amount corresponding to the multiplier
number of the one of the plurality of buy-a-multiplier options
selected by the player.
26. The method of claim 22, wherein the first wager includes a
minimum criteria.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein displaying the game outcome
includes rotating and stopping a plurality of symbol bearing reels
to place symbols on the reels in a second array of symbols, and
wherein the minimum criteria includes player activation of a
maximum number of pay lines.
28. A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine, the
wagering game having a plurality of winning outcomes, the gaming
machine including a display device and a controller having a
processor and a memory, the display device displaying a first array
of symbols, the method comprising: detecting a first wager from a
player of the wagering game; providing a plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options to the player, each of the plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options corresponding to one of a plurality of
pre-determined symbols having a corresponding multiplier number;
detecting a second wager, the second wager indicating player
selection of one of the plurality of buy-a-multiplier options, the
one of the plurality of buy-a-multiplier options including a first
pre-determined symbol and a corresponding multiplier number;
displaying a game outcome; and multiplying a portion of a value
payout award by the corresponding multiplier number to form a
multiplied value payout if the game outcome includes one of the
plurality of winning outcomes having the first pre-determined
symbol.
29. The method of claim 28, further comprising awarding the
multiplied value payout to the player.
30. The method of claim 28, wherein the plurality of pre-selected
symbols comprises the first array of symbols.
31. The method of claim 28, wherein detecting the first wager
includes detecting a first credit amount corresponding to wagering
game play, and wherein detecting the second wager includes
detecting a second credit amount corresponding to the one of the
plurality of buy-a-multiplier options selected by the player.
32. The method of claim 28, wherein the first wager includes a
minimum criteria.
33. The method of claim 32, wherein displaying the game outcome
includes rotating and stopping a plurality of symbol bearing reels
to place symbols on the reels in a second array of symbols, and
wherein the minimum criteria includes player activation of a
maximum number of pay lines.
34. A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine, the
wagering game having a plurality of winning outcomes, the gaming
machine including a display device and a controller having a
processor and a memory, the display device displaying a first array
of symbols, the method comprising: detecting a first wager from a
player of the wagering game; providing a plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options to the player, each of the plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options corresponding to one of a plurality of
pre-determined symbols, each of the plurality of pre-determined
symbols having a plurality of multiplier numbers, each of the
plurality of multiplier numbers corresponding to a different second
wager amount; detecting a second wager, the second wager indicating
player selection of one of the plurality of buy-a-multiplier
options, the one of the plurality of buy-a-multiplier options
including a first pre-determined symbol and a first multiplier
number associated with the first pre-determined symbol; displaying
a game outcome; and multiplying a portion of a value payout award
by the first multiplier number to form a multiplied value payout if
the game outcome includes one of the plurality of winning outcomes
having the first pre-determined symbol.
35. The method of claim 34, further comprising awarding the
multiplied value payout to the player.
36. The method of claim 34, wherein the plurality of multiplier
numbers comprise increasing number values, each of the increasing
number values corresponding to a respective increasing second wager
amount.
37. The method of claim 34, wherein the plurality of pre-determined
symbols comprises the first array of symbols.
38. The method of claim 34, wherein detecting the first wager
includes detecting a first credit amount corresponding to wagering
game play, and wherein detecting the second wager includes
detecting a second credit amount corresponding to the one of the
plurality of buy-a-multiplier options selected by the player.
39. The method of claim 34, wherein the first wager includes a
minimum criteria.
40. The method of claim 39, wherein displaying the game outcome
includes rotating and stopping a plurality of symbol bearing reels
to place symbols on the reels in a second array of symbols, and
wherein the minimum criteria includes player activation of a
maximum number of pay lines.
41. A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine, the
wagering game having a plurality of winning outcomes, the gaming
machine including a display device and a controller having a
processor and a memory, the display device displaying a first array
of symbols, the method comprising: providing a plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options to a player, each of the plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options corresponding to one of a plurality of
pre-determined symbols, each of the plurality of pre-determined
symbols having a plurality of multiplier numbers, each of the
plurality of multiplier numbers corresponding to a different second
wager amount; detecting a second wager, the second wager indicating
player selection of a first buy-a-multiplier option of the
plurality of buy-a-multiplier options, the first buy-a-multiplier
option including a first pre-determined symbol and a first
multiplier number associated with the first pre-determined symbol;
detecting a third wager, the third wager indicating player
selection of a second buy-a-multiplier option of the plurality of
buy-a-multiplier options, the second buy-a-multiplier option
including a second pre-determined symbol and a second multiplier
number associated with the second pre-determined symbol; displaying
a game outcome; multiplying a first portion of a value payout award
by the first multiplier number to form a first multiplied value
payout if the game outcome includes one of the plurality of winning
outcomes having the first pre-determined symbol; and multiplying a
second portion of the value payout award by the second multiplier
number to form a second multiplied value payout if the game outcome
includes one of the plurality of winning outcomes having the second
pre-determined symbol.
42. The method of claim 41, further comprising awarding the first
multiplied value payout to the player.
43. The method of claim 42, further comprising awarding the second
multiplied value payout to the player.
44. The method of claim 41, wherein detecting the first wager
includes detecting a first credit amount corresponding to wagering
game play, wherein detecting the second wager includes detecting a
second credit amount corresponding to the first buy-a-multiplier
option, and wherein detecting the third wager includes detecting a
second credit amount corresponding to the second buy-a-multiplier
option.
45. The method of claim 41, wherein the first wager includes a
minimum criteria.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein displaying the game outcome
includes rotating and stopping a plurality of symbol bearing reels
to place symbols on the reels in a second array of symbols, and
wherein the minimum criteria includes player activation of a
maximum number of pay lines.
47. A method of conducting a wagering game on a slot machine, the
slot machine including a plurality of rotating symbol bearing
reels, a display device and a controller having a processor and a
memory, the method comprising: providing an option for manual reel
set-up; detecting a manual reel set-up wager from a player, the
manual reel set-up wager indicating player selection of the manual
reel set-up option; in response to detecting the manual reel set-up
wager, enabling manual reel set-up by the player; and detecting
manual rotation of the symbol bearing reels by the player to place
symbols on the reels in a first symbol array, the first symbol
array selected by the player.
48. The method of claim 47, further comprising: rotating and
stopping the plurality of symbol bearing reels in a second symbol
array, the second symbol array selected by the controller; and
awarding a value payout if the second symbol array includes one of
a plurality of winning symbol combinations of the wagering
gaming.
49. The method of claim 47, further comprising: rotating and
stopping the plurality of symbol bearing reels in a second symbol
array, the second symbol array selected by the controller; and
awarding a value payout if a portion of the second symbol array
includes a portion of the first symbol array.
50. The method of claim 47, further comprising detecting a game
wager to play the wagering game prior to the step of providing the
option for manual reel set-up.
51. An gaming machine for conducting an enhanced wagering game, the
gaming machine comprising: display device; a value input device;
and a controller coupled to the display device and the value input
device, the controller having a processor and a memory coupled to
the processor, the controller being programmed to: provide at least
one buy-a-multiplier option to a player, the at least one
buy-a-multiplier option corresponding to a buy-a-multiplier outcome
having a multiplier number, detect a buy-a-multiplier wager, the
buy-a-multiplier wager indicating player selection of the at least
one buy-a-multiplier option, display a game outcome of the wagering
game, and multiply a value payout award by the multiplier number to
form a multiplied value payout if the game outcome includes the
buy-a-multiplier outcome corresponding to the at least one
buy-a-multiplier option.
52. The gaming machine of claim 51, wherein the controller is
further programmed to award the multiplied value payout to the
player.
53. The gaming machine of claim 51, wherein the display device
comprises a video display.
54. The gaming machine of claim 51, wherein the display device
comprises a flat panel transmissive display positioned in front of
mechanical spinning reels of the gaming machine.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/731,941 filed Dec. 10, 2003 and entitled
"Gaming Machine Having Enhanced Game Play Scheme." This application
is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/428,516 filed May
1, 2003 and entitled "Gaming Machine With Interactive Pop-Up
Windows" and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/832564 filed Apr.
27, 2004 and entitled "Gaming Machine With Interactive Pop-Up
Windows Providing Enhanced Game Play Schemes", which are
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] This invention is directed to gaming machines, and more
particularly, to a gaming machine having an enhanced game play
scheme.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Gaming machines providing base games such as electronically
driven video slots, video poker, video blackjack, video keno, video
bingo, video pachinko, video lottery, and mechanically driven reel
slots, etc., are well known in the gaming industry. Generally
gaming machines are configured to operate as "stand-alone" units
(that may or may not be coupled to a backroom computer) where the
outcome of game play is "locally determined", or as part of a
server-based gaming network where the outcome of game play may be
either locally determined or "centrally determined".
[0004] Slot games provided by either video slot machines or
mechanical spinning reel slot machines have proven to be one of the
most popular wagering games. As a result, slot game designers
continually seek ways to improve game play and increase coin-in
revenue per wagering game (e.g., the amount wagered by the player
per game). For example, competition for slot game players has
resulted in game designs with lower game play denominations for
those players desiring maximum game play time for their coin-in.
Competition has also resulted in slot game designs with higher
numbers of pay lines to increase an occurrence of a winning symbol
combination per wagering game and to increase coin-in revenue per
wagering game. There is a visual limit, however, to the maximum
number of pay lines that can be offered per wagering game.
[0005] Bonus games are also utilized to attract slot game players
and to increase coin-in revenue per wagering game. Bonus games,
typically initiated by an occurrence of a bonus triggering event
occurring during slot game play, are desirable because they
generally result in some type of win for the player. For example,
some bonus games associated with slot game play provide "free"
spins to the player.
[0006] Because of the popularity of bonus games, gaming machine
manufacturers have attempted to use them to as a basis to increase
coin-in revenue per wagering game played. For example, one bonus
scheme allows a player to buy a chance to participate in a bonus
game where bonus game play may yield a progressive jackpot. This
chance to participate in the bonus game is provided to the player
in exchange for the player providing "additional coin-in" (i.e.,
coin-in that is above what is required for standard base game play
on the gaming machine). Although this scheme does result in an
increased coin-in amount per slot game played, the additional
coin-in amounts are utilized to fund the progressive jackpot rather
than to increase coin-in revenues per game.
[0007] Another bonus scheme allows a player to pay 5 addition
credits per spin (multiplied by the amount bet per line) to
possibly qualify for bonus game play if a bonus triggering event
occurs during the reel spin and if the player has selected the
maximum number of pay lines bet per game. Without the 5 additional
credits per spin per pay line, bonus game play will never be
triggered. Thus, for a player desiring a possible chance to
participate in bonus game play, the player's coin-in must increase
from 20 credits to 25 credits per pay line selected. Although this
scheme does result in an increased coin-in revenue amount per game,
the player must always select to play the maximum number of pay
lines; a costly proposition for the player just to have a possible
chance to participate in bonus game play.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In general, the present invention provides a gaming machine
having an enhanced game play scheme where, in response to a first
wager for base game play plus additional coin-in per game (a second
wager), a player has an opportunity for enhanced game play. In
other words, for additional coin-in per game, an existing aspect of
game play is enhanced. Therefore, depending on the gaming machine
configuration, the additional coin-in per game may result in one of
a number enhanced game play schemes that increase player excitement
while at the same time, increase coin-in revenue per game
played.
[0009] In one embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may
result in more frequent bonus game play via lowering a threshold
for a bonus triggering event to occur.
[0010] In another embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may
result in an enhanced or "supersized" bonus game to be awarded to
the player when bonus game play is triggered. Enhanced bonus game
play results in a higher value payout average than standard bonus
game play.
[0011] In a yet another embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may result in an enhanced bonus game having a lower threshold for a
bonus triggering event to occur; a combination enhanced bonus game
scheme.
[0012] In a further embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may
result in a winning symbol combination paying an enhanced award
associated with an enhanced pay table rather than paying a standard
award associated with a standard pay table.
[0013] In further additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per
game may result in a winning symbol combination paying an enhanced
award corresponding to a multiplied value payout for a winning game
outcome.
[0014] In yet an additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per
game may result in a modified value payout scheme after displaying
a partial game outcome.
[0015] In another further embodiment, the additional coin-in per
game may enable player pre-spin reel set-up in the case of a slot
machine.
[0016] In yet a further embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may operate as insurance yielding a guaranteed value payout in the
event of a non-winning outcome of game play.
[0017] In an additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may be collected after the initial wager at a time when the game
outcome is only partially displayed. The additional coin-in per
game results in a larger value payout in the event of a winning
outcome.
[0018] In yet an additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per
game may activate game features.
[0019] In another additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per
game may activate one or more special reel symbol(s) capable of
being repositioned within an outcome symbol array to yield a higher
value payout.
[0020] In another further embodiment, the additional coin-in per
game may activate additional reel movement after the outcome symbol
array is displayed to reposition an extra reel symbol into the
outcome symbol array and yield a higher value payout.
[0021] In yet another further embodiment, the additional coin-in
per game may activate a possibility of generating an extra pay line
that includes an extra reel symbol if the extra pay line results in
a higher value payout.
[0022] Additional aspects of the invention will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed
description of various embodiments, which is made with reference to
the drawings, a brief description of which is provided below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a gaming
machine having an enhanced game play scheme in accordance the
invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the electronic components of
the gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an embodiment of an enhanced game
play scheme routine that may be performed during game play of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0026] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of another embodiment of an enhanced
game play scheme routine that may be performed during game play of
the gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0027] FIG. 5 is an exemplary mechanical button panel for enhanced
game play on the gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 6 is an exemplary display screen that may be displayed
on the gaming machine of FIG. 1 during performance of the enhanced
game play scheme routine of FIG. 3.
[0029] FIGS. 7-12 are a series of exemplary display screens that
may be displayed during performance of yet another embodiment of an
enhanced game play scheme routine performed during game play of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIGS. 13-18 are a series of exemplary display screens that
may be displayed during performance of a further embodiment of an
enhanced game play scheme routine during game play of the gaming
machine of FIG. 1.
[0031] FIGS. 19-22 are a series of exemplary display screens that
may be displayed during performance of yet a further embodiment of
an enhanced game play scheme routine during game play of the gaming
machine of FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 23 is a flowchart of an embodiment of a
Buy-a-Multiplier game play scheme routine that may be performed
during game play of the gaming machine of FIG. 1.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EXAMPLES
[0033] The description of the preferred examples is to be construed
as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment
of the invention. Numerous alternative embodiments could be
implemented, using either current technology or technology
developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still
fall within the scope of the claims defining the invention.
[0034] In general, the present invention provides a gaming machine
having a number of enhanced game play schemes where, in response to
receipt of a second wager to select an option for enhanced game
play, a player is provided with enhanced game play. The option may
be provided before or after a first wager from the player. Enhanced
game play may include (1) providing more frequent bonus game play,
(2) providing a larger value payout for bonus game play, (3)
providing more frequent bonus game play and providing a larger
payout for bonus game play, (4) providing a larger value payout for
base game play, (5) providing a guaranteed payout at a
predetermined value if a game outcome is a non-winning outcome, (6)
providing one or more game features, (7) providing a multiplied
value payout, (8) enabling the player to manually adjust the reel
symbol array prior to a game play reel spin, (9) providing a larger
value payout for base game play if, after a partial game outcome is
displayed, the player selects the option, (10) activating an extra
wild symbol capable of being repositioned within an outcome symbol
array to yield a higher value payout, (11) providing a possibility
of an additional movement of a reel to reposition an extra reel
symbol, above or below the outcome symbol array, into the outcome
symbol array to yield a higher value payout, or (12) providing a
possibility of generating an extra pay line that includes an extra
reel symbol, above or below an outcome symbol array, if the extra
pay line results in a higher value payout, to name a few.
[0035] As described below, the present invention is preferably
implemented using a video slot machine. It is contemplated that the
present invention may also be implemented using other types of
video gaming machines or, in some cases, using an adaptable
mechanical spinning reel gaming machine having flat panel
transmissive display positioned in front of the mechanical spinning
reels. The flat panel transmissive display is adapted to, among
other things, superimpose video images upon the mechanical spinning
reels. A mechanical spinning reel gaming machine with superimposed
video images generated by a flat panel transmissive display is
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,517,433, entitled "Reel Spinning Slot
Machine With Superimposed Video Image", naming Loose et al. as
inventors, filed May 22, 2001 ("the Loose et al. patent"), and
herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0036] An advantageous feature of the gaming machine having an
enhanced game play scheme is that, in response to an additional
wager per game, a player has an opportunity for enhanced game play,
thereby increasing player enjoyment and increasing coin-in revenue
per game. Thus, unlike prior art schemes that allow a player to
become eligible for possible game play (e.g., bonus game play,
progressive jackpot game play) via an additional wager, the gaming
machine having one or more enhanced game play scheme allows a
player "super-size" existing game play by enhancing base game play,
enhancing bonus game play, enhancing the frequency of bonus game
play, enhancing pay table value payouts, multiplying value payouts,
pre-configuring symbol arrays, etc., via placing a second, or
additional wager.
[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one possible embodiment of a
gaming machine 10 offering an enhanced game play scheme. The gaming
machine 10 may be configured as a stand-alone gaming machine or may
be configured as part of a server-based gaming network having one
or more coupled servers and a number of additional gaming machines.
The gaming machine 10 may be any type of wagering gaming machine
offering the enhanced game play scheme and may therefore have
varying structures and methods of operation. For example, the
gaming machine 10 may be a video gaming machine configured to play
a video wagering game, or it may be a mechanical spinning reel slot
machine (with or without an arm mechanism). For exemplary purposes,
various elements of the gaming machine 10 are described below, but
it should be understood that numerous other elements may exist and
may be utilized in any number of combinations to create a variety
of gaming machine types.
[0038] Referring to FIG. 1, the gaming machine 10 includes a
cabinet 12 having a door 14 to provide access to the interior of
the gaming machine 10. Attached to the door 14 are audio speaker
grills 17 and a belly glass area 18 that typically displays game
theme artwork. Sounds provided via the audio speaker grills 17 and
associated audio speakers may include the sound of spinning slot
machine reels, a dealer's voice, music, announcements or any other
audio related to the wagering game.
[0039] Also attached to the door 14 are a number of value input
devices that allow a player to insert value for game play. The
value input devices may include a coin slot acceptor 20 or a note
acceptor 22 to input value to the gaming machine 10. The note
acceptor 22 may accept value in any number of forms, including
currency or a currency-sized paper ticket voucher inscribed with
information such as a bar code representing value, the name of the
casino, the date, etc. As used herein, the term "value" may
encompass gaming tokens, coins, paper currency, ticket vouchers,
credit or debit cards, smart cards, and any other object
representative of value.
[0040] The gaming machine 10 may also include a player tracking
area 23 having a card reader 24, a keypad 25 and a small display
26. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art,
the player tracking area 23 may be located in any number of areas
of the gaming machine 10. The small display 26 may be implemented
using a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), a liquid crystal display
(LCD), an LED display, and/or a touch screen to display information
to a game player or casino employee. The card reader 24 may include
any type of card reading device, such as a magnetic card reader,
memory card reader, an optical card reader, etc. The card reader 24
may be used to read data from a card (e.g., a credit card, a player
tracking card, a smart card, etc.) offered by a player. If provided
for player tracking purposes, the card reader 24 may be used to
read data from, and/or write data to, cards capable of storing
data. Such data may include the identity of a player, the identity
of a casino, the player's gaming habits, etc. Once gathered, the
data can be "mined" (i.e., the data is sorted to identify patterns
and establish relationships) for any number of purposes including
administering player awards, distinguishing player preferences and
habits, accounting, etc.
[0041] The gaming machine 10 also includes a main display device 31
for displaying video game images (e.g., simulated reel symbols,
simulated cards, simulated numbers, etc.), or in the case of a
mechanical spinning reel slot machine, for displaying a symbol
array of artwork and blank symbols affixed to mechanical spinning
reels viewable to the player. The symbol array may include
occurrences of non-winning symbol combinations where no value
payout is awarded to the player, or occurrences of winning symbol
combinations (reflected in a pay table) where value payouts are
awarded to the player. In addition, the main display device 31 may
display animation, 2-D or 3-D images and digital video
playback.
[0042] For video gaming machines, the main display device 31 may be
implemented as a CRT, an LCD, a VFD, a plasma display, an organic
liquid crystal display or other type of video display suitable for
use in a gaming machine, and includes a touch screen. For example,
in a video gaming machine offering a slot game, the main display
device 31 may include an LCD-TFT display displaying video reel
artwork symbols and blank symbols.
[0043] For mechanical spinning reel slot machines, the main display
device 31 includes a reel display area and may additionally include
a touch screen. Alternatively, the touch screen may be provided at
a location disposed part from the main display device 31. The reel
display area is adapted to display game information to a player
while, at the same time, allowing the player to view a reel symbol
array provided by the stopped mechanical spinning reels. The game
information displayed to the player may include game denominations,
available credits, pay lines, wagering information, and other
suitable game information. When the mechanical spinning reels are
rotated and stopped, the resulting symbol array in conjunction with
game information displayed in the reel display area provide a game
outcome and game status to the player.
[0044] Referring again to FIG. 1, the gaming machine 10 may also
include a box top 34 having additional speaker(s) 36 and a top box
display device 38. Although not separately illustrated, the top box
display device 38 may include a camera and/or a microphone, and/or
physical objects such as mechanical reels, wheels, or dice. The top
box display device 38, if configured as a dynamic display (e.g., a
flat panel video display), may enable a number of game enhancements
such as bonus games, interactive tournament games, progressive
jackpot games, etc. Alternatively, the top box display device 38,
if configured as a static display, may display award information
such as pay tables for base or bonus games via glass art.
[0045] The gaming machine 10 may also include a player control
panel 44. The player control panel 44 includes a number of
pushbuttons or touch-sensitive areas (i.e., touch screen) that may
be pressed by the player to select games, make wagers, make gaming
decisions, etc. As used herein, the term "button" is intended to
encompass any device that allows a player to make an input, such as
a mechanical input device that must be depressed to make an input
selection or a display area that a player may simply touch. The
number of pushbuttons may include one or more "Bet" buttons for
wagering, a "Max Bet" button for making the maximum wager allowable
for the game, a "Play" button for beginning pay, a "Repeat" button
for repeating the previous wagering selection, a "Collect" button
for terminating play and cashing out of the game, a "Help" button
for viewing a help screen, a "See Pays" button for causing the main
display device 31 to generate one or more display screens showing
the odds or payout information for the game or games provided by
the gaming machine 10, and a "Call Attendant" button for calling an
attendant. Further, although the player control panel 44 is shown
to be separate from the main display device 31, it should be
understood that the control panel 44 could be generated as a
touch-sensitive screen by the main display device 31.
[0046] Referring again to FIG. 1, when a player inserts value in
the gaming machine 10, credits corresponding to the amount
deposited are displayed on a credit meter of the gaming machine 10.
After depositing the appropriate amount of value and making
appropriate selections, the player begins base game play by pulling
a mechanical arm or by pushing an appropriate button such as a Bet
button, a Max Bet button, or a Play button on the player control
panel 44. Subsequent game play outcome displayed via the main
display device 31 may be determined either centrally or locally (1)
using a random number generator (RNG) resulting in a pseudo random
set of outcomes, or (2) by selecting a game outcome from a fixed
set of outcomes (pooled), or (3) other suitable technique. In
addition, when triggered by a bonus triggering event such as an
occurrence of selected symbols, a bonus game may be made available
to the player. Like base game play, an outcome associated with
bonus game play may be determined using an RNG, a fixed set of
outcomes, or other suitable technique. Additional details
describing enhanced game play on the gaming machine 10 having an
enhanced game play scheme are included below as described in
connection with FIGS. 3-23.
[0047] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a number of components that may
be incorporated in the gaming machine 10 of FIG. 1. Referring to
FIG. 2, the gaming machine 10, includes a controller 200 that may
comprise a program memory 202 (including a read only memory (ROM)),
a microcontroller-based platform or microprocessor (MP) 204, a
random-access memory (RAM) 206 and an input/output (I/O) circuit
208, all of which may be interconnected via a communications link,
or an address/data bus 210. The microprocessor 204 is capable of
displaying images, symbols and other indicia such as characters,
people, places, things, and faces of cards. The RAM 206 is capable
of storing event data or other data used or generated during a
particular game. The program memory 202 is capable of storing
program code that controls the gaming machine 10 so that it plays a
particular game in accordance with applicable math models, game
rules, and pay tables. For example, when an additional coin-in
amount is received for a wager, the microprocessor 204, executing
code in the program memory 202, causes a bonus triggering event to
occur and then enables subsequent bonus game play.
[0048] It should be appreciated that although only one
microprocessor 204 is shown, the controller 200 may include
multiple microprocessors 204. For example, the controller 200 may
include one microprocessor for executing low level gaming functions
and another processor for executing higher-level game functions
such as some communications, security, maintenance, etc. Similarly,
the memory of the controller 200 may include multiple RAMs 206 and
multiple program memories 202, depending on the requirements of the
gaming machine 10. Although the I/O circuit 208 is shown as a
single block, it should be appreciated that the I/O circuit 208 may
include a number of different types of I/O circuits. The RAM(s) 206
and program memory(s) 202 may be implemented as semiconductor
memories, magnetically readable memories, and/or optically readable
memories, etc. Further, the term "controller" is used herein to
refer collectively to the program memory 202, the microprocessor
204, the RAM 206 and the I/O circuit 208.
[0049] FIG. 2 illustrates that multiple peripheral devices,
depicted as peripheral devices 211, 212, and 214, may be
operatively coupled to the I/O circuit 208. The peripheral devices
may include a control panel with buttons, a coin slot acceptor, a
note acceptor, a bill validator, a card reader, a keypad, a sound
circuit driving speakers, a card reader display, a video display, a
touch screen, etc. In the case of a spinning reel slot machine, the
peripheral devices may include a number of electro-mechanical
spinning reels and a mechanical arm similarly coupled to the I/O
circuit 208. Although three peripheral devices are depicted, more
or less peripheral devices may be included.
[0050] It should be appreciated that although the controller 200 is
a preferable implementation of the present invention, the present
invention also includes implementation via one or more application
specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate
arrays (FPGA), adaptable computing integrated circuits, one or more
hardwired devices, or one or more mechanical devices.
[0051] One manner in which the gaming machine 10 may operate is
described below in connection with one or more flowchart(s) that
represents a number of portions or routines of one or more computer
programs, which may be stored in one or more of the memories of the
controller 200. The computer program(s) or portions thereof may
also be stored remotely, outside of the gaming machine 10 and may
therefore control the operation from a remote location.
[0052] As previously discussed, unlike prior art schemes that allow
a player to be eligible for possible game play (e.g., bonus game,
progressive jackpot) only via additional coin-in, the gaming
machine 10 having an enhanced game play scheme allows a player to
optionally "upgrade" game play by enhancing existing base game
play, enhancing existing bonus game play, enhancing the frequency
of bonus game play, enhancing pay table value payouts, etc. In an
embodiment, player selection of the enhanced game play may be made
prior to initiating the game outcome. In another embodiment (see,
FIG. 4) player selection of the enhanced game play may be made
after a partial game outcome is displayed.
[0053] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an embodiment of an enhanced game
play scheme routine 300 that may be performed by the controller 200
of the gaming machine 10 or by another controller coupled to the
controller 200 (a "coupled controller") during game play. The
enhanced game play scheme routine 300 provides one example of game
play where, in response to receipt of a second wager to select an
option, a player is provided with enhanced game play. Although
discussed below in the context of a video slot game for
illustrative purposes, it is contemplated that the enhanced game
play scheme routine 300 may be executed in conjunction with any
number of other wagering base or bonus games provided by gaming
machines.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 3, the enhanced game play scheme routine
300 begins operation when the controller 200 provides an option for
enhanced game play of the wagering game on the gaming machine 10
(step 302). Exercising the option by a player may result in (1)
providing more frequent bonus game play, (2) providing a larger
value payout average for bonus game play, (3) providing more
frequent bonus game play and providing a larger payout for bonus
game play, (4) providing a larger value payout average for base
game play, (5) providing a guaranteed payout at a predetermined
value if a game outcomes yields only non-winning symbol
combinations, (6) providing one or more game features, (7)
providing a multiplied value payout, and (8) enabling the player to
manually adjust the reel symbol array prior to a game play reel
spin.
[0055] Game play is enabled upon detecting a first wager from a
player (step 304). Detection of the first wager includes detecting
a value input and detecting a bet. The controller 200 detects the
value input when a player deposits one or more of coins, paper
currency, card, or a voucher into a value input device of the
gaming machine 10. When the controller 200 detects the value input,
a number of credits associated are displayed on a credit meter of
the main display device 31. After value input detection, the
controller 200 enables a pay line selection. If there is only one
pay line, the controller 200 enables initiation of base game play.
If there is more than one pay line, the controller 200 also enables
a bet-per-pay line selection. The bet-per-pay line selection causes
an amount per pay line to be bet or wagered with the total wager
divided equally between each selected pay line if multiple pay
lines are selected. The bet-per-pay line is also displayed to the
player via a bet meter on the gaming machine 10. In addition, the
controller 200 enables the player to select a maximum bet (via a
"Max Bet Spin" button, for example). Thus, the player may chose the
maximum bet option causing maximum pay line selection and maximum
credits rather than the pay line selection and the bet per pay line
selection.
[0056] Pay line selection and bet per pay line selection may be
made by the player using a touch screen and/or a mechanical button
panel. FIG. 5 is an exemplary mechanical button panel 450 for a
slot game play on a slot machine having one or more of the enhanced
game play scheme routines described herein. The mechanical button
panel 450 includes four buttons 451, 452, 453, and 454 for pay line
selection, and five buttons 461, 462, 463, 464, and 465 for a
number of credit(s) bet per pay line. Also included is button 455
which when selected, may enable the player selection of the option
for enhanced game play. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, providing
the option for enhanced game play may include a first wager where
the player selects a maximum number of pay lines available for the
slot game.
[0057] Referring again to FIG. 3, the option for enhanced game play
is selected, or exercised, when the player wagers additional
credits. Thus, enhanced game play is enabled upon detecting a
second wager from the player (step 306). The amount of the second
wager may vary depending on the wagering game offered and further
depending on the pay lines selected and the bet per pay line. For
example, if enhanced game play requires an additional 5 credits per
credit bet (per pay line), then enhanced game play for a 15 pay
line bet at 5 credits per pay line would require a second wager
equivalent to 25 credits. The total amount wagered for the game
would therefore be 100 credits; 75 credits for "un-enhanced" game
play plus 25 credits to upgrade to enhanced game play.
[0058] Upon detecting the second wager, the controller 200 enables
enhanced game play of the wagering game (step 308); in the
illustrated example, enables a reel spin. The player may spin the
reels by depressing a button such as a "Spin Reels" pushbutton
provided on the player control panel 44 or by depressing a video
display button provided by a touch screen on the gaming machine 10.
Alternatively, if the slot game is a mechanical spinning reel slot
game utilizing a number of mechanical spinning reels, the player
may pull a handle (e.g., an electro-mechanical arm) provided on the
gaming machine 10 to initiate the reel spin. In either case, the
controller 200, having determined a game outcome based on operation
of a pseudo random generator device, stops the reels such that they
display a reel symbol array representing the game outcome
associated with enhanced game play (step 316). If the reel symbol
array includes a winning symbol combination and/or if associated
bonus game play yields credits, a value payout (i.e., one or more
credits) is awarded to the player (step 318).
[0059] The game outcome and/or the value payout may vary, depending
on the enhancement enabled upon detecting the second wager.
[0060] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the likelihood
of an occurrence of a bonus game, detection of the second wager by
the controller 200 may lower the threshold for an occurrence of a
bonus game triggering event (step 310). For example, if un-enhanced
game play requires that three like symbols (e.g., three Waitress
symbols) appear, scattered within the reels symbol array in order
to trigger bonus game play, then enhanced game play may require
that only two like symbols appear in the reels symbol array in
order to trigger bonus game play. An advantage of this type of game
enhancement is increased entertainment for the player as the
interval between bonus game play is shortened.
[0061] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the value
payout average resulting from bonus game play (step 312), detection
of the second wager by the controller 200 may cause one of any
number of enhanced bonus game schemes having enhanced value payouts
to occur. The enhanced value payouts for bonus game play yield an
overall increased value payout average to the player as compared
with the value payout average associated with un-enhanced game
play. For example, if un-enhanced game play yields 10 free spins
per bonus game, then enhanced game play, costing 3 additional
credits on a nine line slot game, may yield 20 free spins per bonus
game.
[0062] FIG. 6 is an exemplary display screen 500 that may be
displayed on the gaming machine of FIG. 1 during performance of the
enhanced game play scheme routine 300. The exemplary display screen
500 illustrates one example of an enhanced bonus game having an
enhanced value payout. Referring to FIG. 6, the exemplary display
screen 500 includes a video dashboard having a credit meter 502 for
displaying a number of credits available for base game play (e.g.,
400 credits), a pay line indicator 504 for displaying the number of
pay lines selected (e.g., 15 pay lines), a bet indicator 506 for
displaying the number of credits wagered per pay line for an
un-enhanced game (e.g., a first wager of 1 credit per pay line). A
total bet indicator 508 is also provided for displaying the total
credits wagered for the game (e.g., 17 credits); in this case, 15
credits for the first wager, plus 2 credits for the second wager
enabling enhanced bonus game play. Also included are a number of
player selectable buttons such as a select line button 512, a bet
per line button 514, a spin/stop reels button 516, a max bet spin
button 518, etc. Although illustrated as virtual touch screen
buttons, some of the player selectable buttons may also be
configured into the mechanical button panel described in connection
with FIG. 4.
[0063] In the illustrated example, the player selects the option
for enhanced game play by placing the second wager of 2 additional
credits. Enhanced game play causes doubling of the number of free
spins awarded during bonus game play. Thus, the player, having
placed the second wager of two credits, having won a bonus game,
and having selected a first symbol 520 from among five symbols
(i.e., five cowboy hats) during bonus game play, is awarded 16 free
spins rather than 8 spins, thereby yielding an overall increased
value payout average to the player as compared with the value
payout average associated with un-enhanced game play.
[0064] In another example, if un-enhanced game play yields an
un-enhanced value payout amount associated with a bonus game
outcome, then enhanced game play may yield double, triple, etc.,
the un-enhanced value payout amount associated with the same bonus
game outcome. Returning to the free spin example, for a second
wager of 3 credits on a nine pay line slot game, enhanced game play
may yield a bonus game having 10 free spins with double, triple,
etc., value pay outs. In yet a further example, if un-enhanced game
play allows a player during bonus game play to select/reveal items
having a credit value until a bonus game-ending item (e.g., a
terminator, a party pooper) is selected/revealed, enhanced game
play may allow the player during bonus game play to select/reveal
items until two bonus game-ending items are selected/revealed
(e.g., enhanced game play may include one "terminator saver"). In
all of the above examples, additional credits, on average, are paid
out to the player(s) during enhanced game play of a bonus game.
Although too numerous to mention, other examples of an enhanced
bonus game having increased value payouts for bonus game play, are
contemplated.
[0065] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the likelihood
of an occurrence of a bonus game (step 310) and increase in the
value payout average resulting from bonus game play (step 312),
detection of the second wager by the controller 200 may cause one
of any number of bonus game schemes to occur which result in
increased bonus game occurrences, increased value payout averages
per bonus game, or both. For example, if un-enhanced game play of a
nine pay line game (e.g., "X Marks The Spot") having three separate
bonus games where the first bonus game is triggered by three like
reel symbols in a reel symbol array (e.g., Treasure Chest Scatter),
the second bonus game yields five free spins (e.g., Free Spin
Bonus), and the third bonus game yields three value symbols (e.g.,
Second Screen Bonus), then enhanced game play costing 6 additional
credits may enable (a) the first bonus game to be triggered by two
like reel symbols, (b) the second bonus game to yield ten free
spins, and (c) the third bonus game to yield five value symbols. In
one embodiment, the six additional credits provided via the second
wager may be allocated evenly (i.e., 2 credits per bonus game)
between the three bonus games.
[0066] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the value
payout average resulting from base game play (step 314), detection
of the second wager by the controller 200 may cause one of any
number of base game schemes having enhanced value payouts to occur.
The enhanced value payouts for base game play yield an overall
increased value payout average to the player as compared with the
value payout average associated with un-enhanced game play. In
other words, detection of the second wager by the controller 200
may cause an increase to all or part of the value payouts
associated with winning symbol combinations displayed on a pay
table of the gaming machine 10. For example, if un-enhanced game
play of a five reel game has a value payout of 200 credits for five
like symbols displayed in a symbol array, then enhanced game play
costing 5 additional credits per game per credit bet (per pay
line), may enable a value payout of 500 credits for the same five
like symbols. Such an enhancement scheme maximizes the volatility
of game play for those players wishing to exercise the option by
placing the second wager. In another example, if un-enhanced game
play of a five reel game has no value payout for two like symbols
displayed in a symbol array, then enhanced game play costing 5
additional credits per game per credit bet (per pay line), may
enable a 2 credit payout for all two like symbols displayed in the
symbol array. Such an enhancement scheme allows for lower
volatility game play for a player wishing to exercise the option by
placing the second wager.
[0067] Another example of a base game scheme having an enhanced
value payout includes providing a guaranteed value payout to the
player at the conclusion of every game. Therefore, if the
enhancement enabled is providing a guaranteed payout at a
predetermined value if a game outcomes is a non-winning outcome
(step 312), detection of the second wager by the controller 200 may
cause one of any number of game schemes to occur where a guaranteed
value payout occurs. For example, if un-enhanced game play of a
nine pay line slot game only yields a value payout for winning
symbol combinations appearing in a pay table of the gaming machine
10, then enhanced game play, costing one additional credit for
every nine pay line slot game, yields a 10 credit value payout if
the game outcome yields only non-winning symbol combinations.
[0068] If the enhancement enabled is activating one or more game
feature(s), detection of the second wager by the controller 200 may
cause one of any number of game features to be included in the
game. The feature may, for example, be a special function indicator
that indicates a random or predetermined position(s) on the reels.
A symbol landing in the indicated position may be considered a wild
symbol or a scatter symbol for that spin of the reels. The feature
may be an expanding wild symbol such that if the player places the
second wager, a regular wild symbol expands to occupy the entire
reel. The feature may be to eliminate or override one or more
less-favorable outcomes in a bonus game. The less-favorable outcome
may, for example, be a low credit award or a stopper (e.g., a
terminator or party pooper) symbol in a bonus round where the
player makes selections until selecting an item that reveals the
stopper symbol.
[0069] As mentioned above, enhanced game play may include providing
a larger value payout for base game play if, after a partial game
outcome is displayed, the player selects the option by placing the
second wager. The player may wish to select such an option when,
for example, a partial reel symbol array indicates that a winning
outcome is more likely than not.
[0070] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of another embodiment 320 of an
enhanced game play scheme routine that may be performed by the
controller 200 during game play of the gaming machine 10 or by a
coupled controller during game play. The enhanced game play scheme
routine 320 provides one example of game play where, in response to
receipt of a second wager to select an option, a player is provided
with enhanced game play after a partial game outcome is
displayed.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 4, the enhanced game play scheme routine
320 begins operation when the controller 200 detects a first wager
for game play of the wagering game (step 322). Next, the controller
200 enables game play and then displays a partial wagering game
outcome (step 324); in this case, enables a reel spin and displays
a partial reel symbol array provided by at least two stopped reels
of the total number of reels. The controller 200 then provides an
option to the player for enhanced game play (step 326) where
enhanced game play includes increasing a value of some or all of
the value payouts associated with the winning base game outcomes
(e.g., winning symbol combinations).
[0072] In response to receiving a second wager indicating player
selection of the option (step 328), the controller 200 displays a
full outcome associated with enhanced game play (step 332); in this
case, stops the remaining spinning reels to display a full reel
symbol array. If the full outcome associated with enhanced base
game play includes a winning outcome, a value payout is awarded to
the player (step 334) where the value payout reflects the increase
of some or all of the value payouts associated with the winning
base game outcomes.
[0073] In yet another embodiment of an enhanced game play scheme
routine, the controller 200 provides an option to the player to
"purchase" (for a second wager amount) a modified value payout
scheme after displaying a partial game outcome. For example, based
on a partial game outcome of a slot game where the first and second
left-most reels have been stopped, the player may wish to purchase
an option for a right-to-left line pay. The player may wish to
select such the option when the partial game outcome reel symbol
array includes a low occurring and high paying symbol, when it
appears that a traditional left-to-right line pay is unlikely or
when it appears that a right-to-left line pay is likely.
[0074] FIGS. 7-12 are a series of exemplary display screens 600
that may be displayed during performance of yet another embodiment
of an enhanced game play scheme routine 650 during game play of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1. The exemplary display screens 600
illustrate one example of the enhanced game play scheme routine 650
where a reel symbol (e.g., a Super Wild symbol) is able to be
repositioned in a reel symbol array if it is activated and if
repositioning would yield a higher value payout to the player.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 7, the exemplary display screen 600
includes a video dashboard having a credit meter 602 displaying 842
credits, a pay line indicator 604 displaying 20 pay lines, a bet
indicator 606 displaying a first wager of 1 credit per pay line, a
total bet indicator 608 displaying total credits wagered of 20
credits for a first wager for game play. In the illustrated example
of FIG. 7, the 842 credits displayed on the credit meter 602
reflect a deduction of 20 credits prior to the reel spin. As will
be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, in some slot
game designs, the deduction of wagered credits may not be reflected
on the credit meter 602 until after the reel spin.
[0076] Also included on the video dashboard of the exemplary
display screen 600 are a number of player selectable buttons such
as a select line button 612, a bet per line button 614, a spin/stop
reels button 616, a max bet spin button 618, etc. Although
illustrated as virtual touch screen buttons, the some of the player
selectable buttons may also be configured within the mechanical
button panel described in connection with FIG. 4.
[0077] In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, one of the reel
symbols on one of the reels (i.e., on reel five) is designated as a
super wild reel symbol 620 (e.g., a Super Wild symbol) that is able
to be repositioned in an outcome reel symbol array if the supper
wild symbol is activated and if repositioning would yield a higher
value payout to the player. When the controller 200 detects a first
wager of a first amount of credits from a player to play the slot
game, the controller 200 provides an option to activate the super
wild symbol 620.
[0078] The option is preferably provided only when the first wager
includes player selection of a maximum number of pay lines
available for the slot game. For example, for a reel symbol array
having fifteen reel symbols and up to twenty player pay lines, the
option is preferably provided only when the first wager includes
player selection of twenty pay lines. It is contemplated that in
other slot game designs, the option may be offered when less pay
lines are selected, when the first wager includes a maximum number
of credits per pay line bet, etc.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 8, upon receiving a second wager (i.e., a
second amount of credits, in this case 5 credits) indicating player
selection of the option, the total bet indicator 608 reflects the
second wager by increasing from 20 to 25 credits, the super wild
symbol 620 is activated and enhanced slot game play is enabled. The
second credit amount is preferably directly proportional to a
number of credits bet per selected pay line(s). Activating may also
include changing a color of the super wild reel symbol to notify
the player of the activated state. Next, the reels are rotated
(see, FIG. 9) and stopped to display a first reel symbol array 621.
If the super wild symbol 620 appears in the first reel symbol array
621 (see, FIG. 10), the super wild symbol 620 is repositioned (see,
FIG. 11) to display a second reel symbol array 623 (see, FIG. 12)
if the second reel symbol array has a higher value payout than the
first reel symbol array. In the illustrated example of FIG. 12, the
repositioned super wild symbol completes a four money-symbol pay
line resulting in a 100 credit value output.
[0080] Because of the repositioning of the super wild symbol 620, a
probability of an occurrence of a winning outcome is higher in the
second reel symbol array than in the first symbol array. Further
the super wild symbol is repositioned by the controller 200 to
maximize the value payout to the player.
[0081] FIGS. 13-18 are a series of exemplary display screens 700
that may be displayed during performance of a further embodiment of
an enhanced game play scheme routine 750 during game play of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1. The exemplary display screens 700
illustrate one example of the enhanced game play scheme routine 750
where a reel displaying a first extra symbol is able to be
"nudged", or undergoes an additional slight movement, to reposition
the first extra symbol in a reel symbol array if the additional
movement would yield a higher value payout to the player.
[0082] Referring to FIG. 13, the exemplary display screen 700
includes a video dashboard having a credit meter 702, a pay line
indicator 704 displaying 20 pay lines, a bet indicator 706
displaying a first wager of 1 credit per pay line, a total bet
indicator 708 displaying total credits wagered of 20 credits. Also
included are a number of player selectable buttons such as a select
line button 712, a bet per line button 714, a spin/stop reels
button 716, a max bet spin button 718, etc. Although illustrated as
virtual touch screen buttons, some of the player selectable buttons
may also be configured within the mechanical button panel described
in connection with FIG. 4.
[0083] In the illustrated example of FIG. 13, a first extra reel
symbol 720 (i.e., a gold bar) and a second extra reel symbol 722
(i.e., a money bag) are displayed above and below the first reel
724 of a first symbol array 727 of fifteen reel symbols. When the
controller 200 receives a first wager of a first amount of credits
from a player to play the slot game, the controller 200 provides an
option to activate a possibility of movement of the first reel 724
to reposition either the first extra reel symbol 720 or the second
extra reel symbol 722 after the reels spin and stop.
[0084] The option is preferably provided only when the first wager
includes player selection of a maximum number of pay lines
available for the slot game. It is contemplated that the option may
be offered however, when less pay lines are selected, when the
first wager includes a maximum number of credits per pay line bet,
etc.
[0085] Referring to FIG. 14, upon receiving a second wager (i.e., a
second amount of credits) indicating player selection of the
option, the total bet indicator 708 reflects the second wager by
increasing from 20 to 25 credits, the possibility of movement of
the first reel 724 to reposition either the first extra reel symbol
720 or the second extra reel symbol 722 is activated and therefore
enhanced slot game play is enabled. The second credit amount is
preferably directly proportional to a number of credits bet per
selected pay line(s). Activating may also include changing a color
of the first and second extra reel symbol 720, 722 (see, FIG. 14)
and/or displaying the words "SUPER NUDGE ACTIVATED" to notify the
player of the activated state. Next, the reels are rotated (see,
FIG. 15) and stopped to display a second reel symbol array 729
(see, FIG. 16). The first extra reel symbol 720 (i.e., a bank safe)
and the second extra reels symbol 722 (i.e., a piggy bank) are also
rotated and stopped (see, FIG. 16). If the addition movement of the
first reel 724 to reposition the first extra symbol 720 into a
third reel symbol array results in a higher value payout than the
second symbol array (see, FIG. 17), then the first extra reel will
nudge downward by one reel position to form the third symbol array
731. Similarly, if the addition movement of the first reel 724 to
reposition the second extra symbol 722 into a third reel symbol
array results in a higher value payout than the second symbol
array, then the first extra reel will nudge upward by one reel
position to form the third array 731. In the illustrated example of
FIG. 18, repositioning the first extra symbol 720, a bank safe,
into the third reel symbol array creates a five bank safe
combination yielding in a higher value payout than the second
symbol array.
[0086] Because of the possibility of repositioning either the first
or second extra reel symbol, a probability of an occurrence of a
winning outcome is higher in the third reel symbol array than in
the second symbol array. Further, either the first or second extra
reel symbol is repositioned via the additional movement of the
first reel 724 by the controller 200 to maximize the value payout
to the player.
[0087] FIGS. 19-22 are a series of exemplary display screens 800
that may be displayed during performance of yet a further
embodiment of an enhanced game play scheme routine 850 during game
play of the gaming machine of FIG. 1. The exemplary display screens
800 illustrate one example of the enhanced game play scheme routine
850 where an extra reel symbol is used to generate a new pay line
having a winning symbol combination and yielding a value payout to
the player.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 19, the exemplary display screen 800
includes a video dashboard having a credit meter 802 displaying 924
credits, a pay line indicator 804 displaying 20 pay lines, a bet
indicator 806 displaying a first wager of 1 credit per pay line, a
total bet indicator 808 displaying total credits wagered of 20
credits. Also included are a number of player selectable buttons
such as a select line button 812, a bet per line button 814, a
spin/stop reels button 816, a max bet spin button 818, etc.
Although illustrated as virtual touch screen buttons, some of the
player selectable buttons may also be configured within the
mechanical button panel described in connection with FIG. 4.
[0089] In the illustrated example of FIG. 19, an extra reel symbol
820 (i.e., gold bar) is displayed above a first symbol array 827 of
fifteen reel symbols. The extra reel symbol 820 is preferably
displayed above the third reel 824 although it may be displayed
above or below any of the reels. When the controller 200 receives a
first wager of a first amount of credits from a player to play the
slot game, the controller 200 provides an option to activate a
possibility of generating an extra pay line that includes the extra
reel symbol 820.
[0090] The option is preferably provided only when the first wager
includes player selection of a maximum number of pay lines
available for the slot game. It is contemplated that the option may
be offered however, when less pay lines are selected, when the
first wager includes a maximum number of credits per pay line bet,
etc.
[0091] Referring to FIG. 20, upon receiving a second wager (i.e., a
second amount of credits) indicating player selection of the
option, the total bet indicator 808 reflects the second wager by
increasing from 20 to 25 credits, the possibility of generating an
extra pay line including the extra reel symbol 820 is activated and
enhanced slot game play is enabled. The second credit amount is
preferably directly proportional to a number of credits bet per
selected pay line(s). Activating may also include changing a color
of the third reel 824 and/or displaying the words "SUPER SYMBOL
ACTIVATED" to notify the player of the activated state (see, FIG.
20). Next, the reels are rotated (see, FIG. 21) and stopped to
display a second reel symbol array 829 (see, FIG. 22). The extra
reel symbol 820 is also rotated and stopped (see, FIG. 21). If the
extra reel symbol 820 (i.e., money bag) completes a winning symbol
combination, the extra pay line 830 is generated including the
first extra reel symbol 820 (see, FIG. 22). The extra pay line 830,
including the extra reel symbol 820, may be generated to include
five reel symbols in one in any number of patterns. In the
illustrated example of FIG. 22, the extra symbol 820 in the extra
pay line 830 creates a five moneybag combination yielding a value
payout of 300 credits.
[0092] Because of the possibility of generating an extra pay line
that includes the extra symbol 820, a probability of an occurrence
of a winning outcome is higher in the third reel symbol array than
in the second symbol array. Further, the extra pay line is
generated by the controller 200 to maximize the value payout to the
player.
[0093] In yet a further embodiment of an enhanced game play scheme
routine the player may have an option to multiply a winning game
outcome by a multiplier number to increase a value output. FIG. 23
is a flowchart of such an enhanced game play scheme referred to
herein as a Buy-a-Multiplier (BAM) game play scheme routine 900
that may be performed during game play of the gaming machine of
FIG. 1. The BAM game play scheme routine 900 provides one example
of game play where, in response to receipt of an additional wager
(i.e., a second wager) to select a BAM option, a player is provided
with BAM enhanced game play where value payouts associated with
winning game outcomes are multiplied by a predetermined number, or
multiplier. The value of the multiplier number preferably
corresponds to the amount of the additional, or second, wager or to
the value of the symbol designated, either pre-designated or
designated by the player, for inclusion in winning symbol
combinations associated with multiplied value payouts. Although
referred to herein as a first wager to play the wagering game and a
second wager to select a BAM option, it is contemplated that the
first and second wager may be combined into a single wager that
includes wagering game play and selection of the BAM option.
[0094] Although discussed in the context of a video slot game, it
is contemplated that the BAM game play scheme routine 900 may be
adapted for any game theme. For example, the BAM game play scheme
routine 900 may be adapted for a video poker game where, in
response to receipt of an additional wager to select a BAM option,
a value payout for one or more selected winning poker game outcomes
(e.g., a poker hand including three Kings) is multiplied by a
multiplier number of the selected BAM option. Similarly, the BAM
game play scheme routine 900 may be adapted for a video black jack
game where, in response to receipt of an additional wager to select
a BAM option, the player is awarded a value payout, that may or may
not be multiplied, depending on whether the player's card hand is
within a certain point spread (i.e., 2 points) of the dealer's
hand. The BAM game play scheme routine 900 may also be adapted for
a video keno game where, in response to receipt of an additional
wager to select a BAM option, a value payout for one or more
winning keno game outcomes that include a specific number is
multiplied by a multiplier number of the selected BAM option.
[0095] In addition, although referred to herein as a second wager,
it is contemplated that the additional wager for BAM enhanced game
play may be made either before or after the wager for base game
play (e.g., the first wager), depending on the game design.
[0096] Player selection of the BAM option may be made via a touch
screen button provided by a video gaming machine display, or it may
be made via a mechanical button. The mechanical button may be an
existing mechanical button on the player control panel 44, visually
highlighted to direct player's attention to it at the appropriate
selection time. The mechanical button may also be a "special"
button configured only for BAM game play and may include a readily
identifiable logo.
[0097] To increase coin-in revenue, BAM enhanced game play is
preferably only available to a player when a minimum criteria is
met, for example when a maximum bet is placed, or in the case of a
slot game, when a maximum number of pay lines are selected for
activation. It is contemplated however, that BAM enhanced game play
may not be subject to a minimum wager criteria and instead be
subject to a qualifying event such as the time of day, the type of
game offered by the game machine 10, the popularity of the game,
insertion of a player tracking card, a membership level in a player
tracking club, or combinations thereof, etc.
[0098] Referring to FIG. 23, the Buy-a-Multiplier game play scheme
routine 900 begins operation when the controller 200 detects a
first wager for game play of the wagering game (step 902). Upon
detecting the first wager, the controller 200 enables a player
selectable BAM option for BAM enhanced game play (step 904) if the
first wager includes a minimum criteria, for example, when a
maximum number of pay lines are selected for activation for slot
game play.
[0099] BAM enhanced game play may include one of any number of
Buy-A-Multiplier game play schemes where value payouts associated
with winning game outcomes are multiplied by a predetermined number
that, for example, corresponds to a second wagered amount. The
Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may be configured as a one
game-symbol specific BAM enhanced game where value payouts
associated with winning symbol combinations that include a
pre-designated reel symbol may be multiplied by a fixed
predetermined number. That is, for a second wager, value payouts
associated with winning symbol combinations of the pre-designated
game-symbol, for example, winning combinations of three, four or
five cherry reel symbols, may be multiplied by a fixed
predetermined number (e.g., 2.times.) and awarded to the
player.
[0100] BAM enhanced game play may also be expanded to provide
symbol specific volatility where, for one pre-designated symbol,
the value of the multiplier increases as the second wager amount is
increased; it is therefore not a fixed multiplier number. For
example, for a second wager of one credit, a value payout
associated with a winning game outcome that includes a
pre-designated SEVEN reel symbol may be multiplied by 5 while, for
an increased second wager of three credits, the value payout
associated with a winning game outcome that includes the SEVEN reel
symbol may be multiplied by 15.
[0101] BAM enhanced game play may be further expanded to provide
game specific volatility, where for a particular game, the value of
the multiplier number varies from reel symbol to reel symbol, with
the more likely occurring reel symbols having a lower multiplier
values. Although each multiplier option may result in different
value payouts depending on the symbol selected, selection of any
one of the symbols for inclusion in BAM game play, however,
requires the same second wager amount. Thus, the player, based on
his/her preference for a "lucky" symbol, or based on the different
pre-assigned multiplier number values associated with the different
reel symbols, can chose a particular symbol for inclusion in
winning symbol combinations having multiplied value payouts. In
this way, the player can control game volatility.
[0102] For example, the Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may be
configured so that a second wager of one credit on a cherry reel
symbol win yields a value payout that is 2 times the value payout
of its winning symbol combination while a second wager of one
credit on a SEVEN reel symbol yields a value payout that is 25
times the value payout of its winning symbol combination, where
winning symbol combinations of the SEVEN reel symbol are less
likely to occur than winning symbol combinations of the cherry reel
symbol.
[0103] It is contemplated that the Buy-A-Multiplier game play
scheme described above may be further configured to allow the
player to "multiply" the multiplied value payout by multiplying the
base value of the second wager. For example, the Buy-A-Multiplier
game play scheme may be configured so that instead of a second
wager of one credit on a cherry reel symbol win yielding a value
payout that is 2 times the value payout of its winning symbol
combination, a second wager of three credits on the cherry reel
symbol win would yield a value payout that is 6 times the value
payout of its winning symbol combination. Similarly, a second wager
of five credits on the cherry symbol (rather than one credit) would
yield a value payout that is 10 times the value payout of its
winning symbol combination (rather than 2 times the value
payout).
[0104] The Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may also be configured
to allow the player to place simultaneous second wagers for more
than one Buy-A-Multiplier option. For example, the Buy-A-Multiplier
game play scheme may be configured so that a "total second wager"
of 5 credits corresponds to a second wager of 2 credits for
multiplying a value payout associated with a winning symbol
combination of cherry reel symbols by 10.times. and a "third" wager
of 3 credits for multiplying a value payout associated with a
winning symbol combination of SEVEN reel symbols by 25.times..
[0105] Further, the Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may be
configured to allow the player to place a second wager for a
Buy-A-Multiplier option where value payouts associated with all
winning symbol combination are multiplied by one of a
pre-determined or random multiplier number. Similarly, the
Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may also be configured to allow
the player to place a second wager for a Buy-A-Multiplier option
where value payouts associated with selected winning symbol
combinations including a particular symbol or symbols are
multiplied by one of a pre-determined or random multiplier number.
For example, for a second wager of two credits, any value payout
associated with a winning game outcome that includes a cherry reel
symbol may be multiplied by 5. Other reel symbols (e.g., bars, 7's,
etc.) or combinations of reel symbols (e.g., cherries and/or bars,
bars and/or 7's, etc.) could also be utilized.
[0106] If configured to allow the player to place simultaneous
second wagers for multiple reel symbol, or to multiply the
multiplied value payouts by multiplying the base value of the
second wager, it is contemplated that the Buy-A-Multiplier game
play scheme would preferably include a cap or maximum total second
wager to prevent a player from placing excessive wagers. In
addition, although five embodiments of a Buy-A-Multiplier game play
scheme have been described above, additional embodiments of the
Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme are contemplated.
[0107] For example, rather than being pre-determined, the
multiplier numbers may be randomly selected during game play of one
or more of the Buy-A-Multiplier game play schemes discussed above.
Similarly, rather than being pre-designated, the symbols may be
randomly selected during game play of one or more of the
Buy-A-Multiplier game play schemes discussed above.
[0108] Referring again to FIG. 23, if the controller 200 does not
detect a second wager, indicating that the player has not selected
the BAM option for BAM enhanced game play, game play is initiated
as described in connection with FIG. 3 and a game outcome is
displayed (step 908). If the game outcome includes a winning symbol
combination, the player is awarded accordingly. The player may
either play again if credits remain on the credit meter or may
cash-out. If the game outcome does not include a winning symbol
combination, the player may play again if credits remain on the
credit meter or may cash-out.
[0109] Referring again to step 906, if the controller 200 detects a
second wager (or a "third", etc. wager), indicating that the player
has selected one or more BAM option(s) for BAM enhanced game play
according to a BAM game play scheme, the controller 200 enables BAM
enhanced game play (step 912). Game play is then initiated as
described in connection with FIG. 3. and a game outcome is
displayed (step 914).
[0110] (1) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included one
pre-designated symbol with a fixed pre-determined multiplier
corresponding to a fixed second wager amount, then upon receipt of
the fixed second wager amount, value payouts associated with
winning symbol combinations of the one pre-designated symbol will
be multiplied by the fixed pre-determined multiplier and awarded to
the player (e.g., 50 credits awarded). For example, if the BAM
enhanced game play scheme included one cherry reel symbol with a
fixed pre-determined multiplier of 2.times. for a one credit second
wager, then upon receipt of a one credit second wager, a value
payout associated with a combination of three reels cherries having
a line pay of 25 credits would be multiplied by 2.times. and 50
credits would be awarded to the player.
[0111] (2) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included one
pre-designated symbol with variable pre-determined multipliers
corresponding to a second wager amount, then value payouts
associated with winning symbol combinations of the one
pre-designated symbol will be multiplied by the appropriate
pre-determined multiplier (determined by the second wager amount)
and awarded to the player. For example, if BAM enhanced game play
included one cherry reel symbol with variable pre-determined
multipliers of 2.times. for a one credit second wager, 5.times. for
a three credit second wager and 25.times. for a five credit second
wager, then upon receipt of a three credit second wager, a value
payout associated with a combination of three reels cherries having
a line pay of 25 credits would be multiplied by 5.times. and 150
credits would be awarded to the player.
[0112] (3) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included two or
more pre-designated symbols, each having a fixed pre-determined
multiplier corresponding to the same fixed second wager amount,
then value payouts associated with winning symbol combinations of
each of the two or more pre-designated symbols would be multiplied
by the appropriate pre-determined multiplier (determined by player
symbol selection) and awarded to the player. For example, if BAM
enhanced game play included one a cherry reel symbol with a fixed
pre-determined multiplier of 2.times. for a one credit second
wager, and a SEVEN reel symbol with a fixed pre-determined
multiplier of 5.times. for a one credit second wager, upon player
selection of the SEVEN symbol and upon receipt of a second wager of
one credit, a value payout associated with a combination of three
SEVEN symbols having a line pay of 20 credits would be multiplied
by 5.times. and 100 credits would be awarded to the player.
[0113] (4) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included two or
more pre-designated symbols, each having a variable pre-determined
multipliers where each variable pre-determined multiplier
corresponds to a second wager amount, then value payouts associated
with winning symbol combinations of each of the two or more
pre-designated symbols would be multiplied by the appropriate
pre-determined multiplier (determined by player symbol selection
and the second wager amount) and awarded to the player. For
example, if BAM enhanced game play included one cherry reel symbol
with variable pre-determined multipliers of 2.times. for a one
credit second wager, 5.times. for a three credit second wager and
25.times. for a five credit second wager, and a SEVEN reel symbol
with variable pre-determined multipliers of 5.times. for a one
credit second wager, 10.times. for a three credit second wager and
20.times. for a five credit second wager, upon detecting a player
symbol selection of the SEVEN reel symbol and upon receipt of a
second wager of three credits, a value payout associated with a
combination of three SEVEN symbols having a line pay of 20 credits
would be multiplied by 10.times. and 200 credits would be awarded
to the player.
[0114] (5) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included two or
more pre-designated symbols, each having variable pre-determined
multipliers associated with variable second wager amounts, then
value payouts associated with winning symbol combinations of each
of the two or more pre-designated symbols would be multiplied by
the appropriate pre-determined multiplier (determined by player
symbol selections and second wager amounts) and awarded to the
player. For example, if BAM enhanced game play included a cherry
reel symbol with variable pre-determined multipliers of 2.times.
for a one credit second wager, 5.times. for a three credit second
wager and 25.times. for a five credit second wager, and a SEVEN
reel symbol with variable pre-determined multipliers of 5.times.
for a one credit second wager, 10.times. for a three credit second
wager and 20.times. for a five credit second wager, upon detecting
a first player symbol selection of the SEVEN reel symbol and upon
receipt of a second wager of three credits, and upon detecting a
second player symbol selection of the cherry reel symbol and upon
receipt of a third wager of five credits, a value payout associated
with a winning symbol combination of three SEVEN symbols having a
line pay of 20 credits will be multiplied by 10.times. and a value
payout associated with a winning symbol combination of four cherry
symbols having a line pay of 10 credits will be multiplied by
25.times. and 450 credits will be awarded to the player.
[0115] In still another embodiment of an enhanced game play scheme
routine, the player may have an option to manually set-up the reel
configuration of slot game reels prior to a reel spin ("manual
pre-spin reel set-up"). Once the manual pre-spin reel set-up game
play scheme is selected by the player, the duration of the manual
pre-spin reel set-up game scheme may be one game or many games,
depending on its configuration. Moreover, a bonus award (e.g.,
credits, free spins) may be awarded to a player if a portion of a
symbol array resulting from the manual pre-spin reel set-up matches
a portion of the symbol array displaying the subsequent game
outcome. The portions may vary to include all or some of the symbol
arrays, only winning symbol combination, selected symbols, or
selected pay lines, to name a few. Although the option is
preferably selected by the player upon placing a second wager, it
is contemplated that the option to manually set-up the reel symbol
configuration may be given to the player without the player being
required to place the second wager.
[0116] Manual pre-spin reel set-up may be desirable to a player who
enjoys perceiving some control over game play. By manually
setting-up the reel configurations, such a player may feel that
he/she has increased the odds of winning a particular symbol
combination. In addition, some players may be "superstitious" and
prefer that particular reel symbols be displayed prior to the reel
spin. For example, on a five reel video slot machine, the player
may wish to rotate video reels 1, 3 and 4 in order to align four
cherry symbols on a particular pay line prior to initiating the
reel spin, and seemingly increase his/her odds of displaying four
cherry symbols along an activated pay line in the game outcome.
[0117] During operation, either before or after the first wager,
depending on the game configuration, the player may configure the
reel symbol array, or "set-up" the reels, in order to display a
particular symbol pattern as mentioned above. The reel position
adjustments may be made in one of any number of ways depending on
the gaming machine type. For video slot machines and for mechanical
spinning reel slot machines having an overlaid flat panel
transmissive display, the player may adjust the reel symbols
displayed on the display 12 by touching under the center of the
reel symbol ("under-center") to rotate its associated reel forward.
Similarly, the player may adjust the reel symbols displayed on the
display 12 by touching over the center of the reel symbol
("over-center") to rotate its associated reel backwards, or vice
versa. Each reel may therefore be rotated by the player to place
selected symbols along activated pay lines prior to initiating and
displaying the final game outcome. In the case of a mechanical
spinning reel gaming machine, one or more mechanical buttons on the
player control panel 44 may be utilized to allow the player to
manually set-up the reel symbol configuration.
[0118] In still a further embodiment, the player may be able to
manually stop selected reels in any order he/she chooses and then
place an additional, or second wager, to select a BAM option to
multiply a value output associated with a winning symbol
combination by a multiplier number. In this case, the BAM option
would be available to the player as long as the stopped reels did
not indicate a winning symbol combination.
[0119] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a number
of other alternatives exist for enhanced game play schemes that
increase the coin-in revenue per game played. For example, the
player may be required to place an extra wager (i.e., the second
wager) to buy virtually any feature or to make any feature
available to the player.
[0120] As may be apparent from the discussion above, the gaming
machine having a number of enhanced game play schemes increases
coin-in revenue per game played and increases player enjoyment.
Thus, unlike prior art schemes that allow a player to become
eligible for possible game play via an additional wager (e.g.,
bonus game play, progressive jackpot game play), the gaming machine
having one or more enhanced game play scheme allows a player
"supersize" existing game play by enhancing base game play,
enhancing bonus game play, enhancing the frequency of bonus game
play, enhancing pay table value payouts, etc., via an additional
wager amount.
[0121] From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous
variations and modifications may be affected without departing from
the scope of the novel concept of the invention. It is to be
understood that no limitations with respect to the specific methods
and apparatus illustrated herein is intended or should be inferred.
It is, of course, intended to cover by the appended claims all such
modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.
* * * * *