U.S. patent application number 11/131906 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-23 for game played with playing card and non-playing card symbols.
Invention is credited to Milo Borissov.
Application Number | 20060264255 11/131906 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37448948 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060264255 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Borissov; Milo |
November 23, 2006 |
Game played with playing card and non-playing card symbols
Abstract
A slot-type game provides the opportunity to receive or form
combinations of winning slot symbols as well as cards forming poker
card combinations. In particular, slot-type, non-playing card
symbols are displayed along with playing card symbols. Winning
results occur if particular combinations of slot symbols and/or
playing card symbols are received. In one embodiment, winning
combinations of slot symbols must be located along active paylines,
while winning combinations of playing card symbols may occur
anywhere in the group of symbols. A respin feature permits a player
to replace one or more symbols in an additional attempt to obtain
winning results.
Inventors: |
Borissov; Milo; (Sharjah Al
Durah Tower, AE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WEIDE & MILLER, LTD.
7251 W. LAKE MEAD BLVD.
SUITE 530
LAS VEGAS
NV
89128
US
|
Family ID: |
37448948 |
Appl. No.: |
11/131906 |
Filed: |
May 17, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/020 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method of playing a game comprising the steps of: accepting a
wager; displaying a first plurality of symbols selected from a
group consisting of playing card symbols and non-playing card
symbols, one or more of said symbols of said first plurality of
symbols displayed along one or more paylines; determining from said
first plurality of symbols if any combinations of non-playing card
symbols along one or more of said paylines comprise winning
combinations of non-playing card symbols; determining from said
first plurality of symbols if any winning combinations of playing
card symbols exist in said plurality of displayed symbols; and
declaring a winning outcome for any winning combinations of
non-playing card or playing card symbols in said first plurality of
symbols.
2. The method in accordance with claim 1 including the step of
awarding winnings for winning outcomes.
3. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of
determining if winning combinations of playing card symbols exist
comprises determining if any playing card symbols comprise a poker
hand of at least one pair or higher value.
4. The method in accordance with claim 1 including the step of
activating at least one payline and determining if any combinations
of non-playing card symbols along one or more active paylines
comprise winning combinations of non-playing card symbols.
5. The method in accordance with claim 4 including the step of
activating at least one payline for a minimum wager and activating
a more than one payline for a wager greater than said minimum
wager.
6. The method in accordance with claim 1 including the steps of:
accepting input from a player regarding one or more symbols of said
first plurality of symbols to be replaced; replacing said symbols
to create a second plurality of symbols; determining from said
second plurality of symbols if any combinations of non-playing card
symbols along one or more of said paylines comprise winning
combinations of non-playing card symbols; determining from said
second plurality of symbols if any winning combinations of playing
card symbols exist in said plurality of displayed symbols; and
declaring a winning outcome for any winning combinations of
non-playing card or playing card symbols in said second plurality
of symbols.
7. The method in accordance with claim 6 including the step of
awarding winnings for winning outcomes from said first and second
pluralities of symbols.
8. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said first
plurality of symbols are selected from a group of symbols, said
group of symbols including a greater number of non-playing card
symbols than playing card symbols.
9. The method in accordance with claim 1 wherein said step of
displaying comprises the step of rotating one or more reels bearing
symbols.
10. The method in accordance with claim 1 including the step of
generating symbol information and wherein said step of displaying
comprises utilizing said generated symbol information to display
said symbols on a video display.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to casino-style games in which
symbols are displayed as part of the play of a game.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Slot-type gaming machines are well-known and have been
popular for years. These games have their origin in old mechanical
spinning reel games where a player attempted to receive certain
combinations of symbols as a result of the spin of the reels. More
recently, these games have been implemented on video gaming
machines where the symbols are generated and displayed on a video
display.
[0003] The problem with these games is that the basic configuration
of the game is relatively simple, and the game offers little player
interaction. In order to make these games exciting, gaming
manufacturers have recently begun offering "themed" slot type
games. For example, popular themed gaming machines currently
include Playboy.RTM., Star Wars.RTM. and others. Associating a
"theme" with the game does not, however, generally change the
method of game play or the minimal player interaction offered
thereby.
[0004] A slot-type game which provides a higher level of player
excitement and interaction is desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention comprises a method of playing a game
and a gaming machine configured to present a game. One embodiment
of the invention is a slot-type game providing a player the
opportunity to receive or form combinations of winning slot
symbols, as well as cards forming poker card combinations. In
particular, slot-type, non-playing card symbols are displayed along
with playing card symbols. Winning results occur if particular
combinations of slot symbols and/or playing card symbols are
received.
[0006] In accordance with one embodiment of a game, a plurality of
symbols are displayed. Those symbols are selected from a group
consisting of playing card symbols and non-playing card
symbols.
[0007] Next, it is determined if any combinations of non-playing
card symbols comprise winning combinations of non-playing card
symbols. In a preferred embodiment, the symbols are displayed in
association with one or more paylines, and only combinations of
non-playing card symbols along a payline may be declared winning
combinations of non-playing card symbols.
[0008] It is also determined if any winning combinations of playing
card symbols exist in the plurality of displayed symbols. In a
preferred embodiment, winning combinations of playing card symbols
may be declared for combinations of playing cards which appear or
occur anywhere, i.e. are "scattered," in the group of symbols,
regardless of wether those symbols exist along a payline. Winning
combinations of playing cards may comprise poker card combinations,
such as "a pair," "two pair" and the like.
[0009] A winning outcome is declared for any winning combinations
of non-playing card or playing card symbols. In one embodiment, the
game is played as a wagering type game and a player is awarded
winnings such as credits, points or other monetary value, or
prizes.
[0010] In one embodiment, the probability of receiving non-playing
card symbols is greater than that for receiving playing card
symbols.
[0011] In one embodiment, a player may be provided the opportunity
to replace one or more of the displayed symbols, such as by
selection of particular symbols to replace or by respinning one or
more physical or virtual reels with which symbols are
associated.
[0012] In a preferred embodiment, after an initial set of symbols
is displayed, that set of symbols is evaluated to determine if any
winning combinations of slot or non-playing card symbols exist
(such as winning sets of non-playing cards along active paylines).
A player is then permitted to replace one or more of the displayed
symbols, such as by respinning one or more of the reels. The
resultant set of symbols is then evaluated to determine if any
winning card symbol combinations exist.
[0013] One embodiment of the invention is a gaming machine
configured to present a game of the invention.
[0014] Further objects, features, and advantages of the present
invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed
description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the
attached figures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a gaming device of the type which may be
used to implement a game in accordance with the invention for play
by a player;
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates one set of symbols representing the
outcome of a game in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention;
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates one set of symbols representing a first
outcome of a game in accordance with another embodiment of the
invention; and
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates one set of symbols representing a second
outcome of the game in FIG. 3 after certain symbols from that set
of symbols have been replaced.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] The invention is a method of presenting and playing a game.
In the following description, numerous specific details are set
forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the
present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in
the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these
specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
[0020] In general, the invention comprises a method of playing a
game in which a plurality of symbols are displayed. The game is a
"slot" type game in which a player attempts to receive certain
combinations of slot symbols, those symbols preferably comprising
non-playing card symbols. In addition, the game includes the
opportunity for a player to receive playing card symbols in an
attempt to form winning card combinations.
[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the game of the invention is
presented to a player with a gaming machine. FIG. 1 illustrates one
embodiment of a gaming machine 20 in accordance with the invention.
As illustrated, the gaming machine 20 includes a housing 22 for
enclosing/supporting various components of the gaming machine. The
housing 22 have a variety of configurations. In one embodiment, the
housing 22 is configured to the machine has an "upright"
configuration. The machine 20 might also be configured as a
"slant"-type, "bar-top" or have other forms.
[0022] In one embodiment, the gaming machine 20 is configured as a
"video" type gaming machine, the machine including at least one
display 24 for displaying game information to a player. As
described below, this game information may include playing card and
non-playing card symbols or indicia.
[0023] The gaming machine 20 may include other means for providing
information to a player. For example, speakers (not shown) or other
devices may be provided for generating sound associated with the
game. The gaming machine 20 may also include lights, printed
instructions and other displays/display devices.
[0024] In one embodiment, a player must make payment in order to be
entitled to play the game. Preferably, the game is presented as a
wagering type game, and a player must place a bet or wager in order
to play the game for the opportunity to receive winnings.
Preferably, if the player is a winner of the game, the player is
provided an award, such as a monetary payout (such as coins),
credits representing monetary value, points or tangible prizes. As
illustrated, the gaming machine 20 may include a bill
validator/acceptor 26 for accepting paper currency and a coin
acceptor 28 for accepting coins. Other means of payment, such as a
credit card reader, may be provided. An award of winnings in the
form of coins may be paid to the player via a coin tray 30.
[0025] Preferably, the gaming machine 20 includes means for a
player to provide input. In one embodiment, this means comprises
one or more buttons. For example, a plurality of reel "spin" or
"select" buttons 32 may be provided for permitting a player to
hold/select cards in a hand. A bet one button 34 and bet max button
36 are provided for a player to select the amount to bet on a
particular game. Other means of input may be provided, such as a
touch-screen display and other devices now known or later
developed.
[0026] A game controller (not shown) is provided for controlling
the various devices of the gaming machine and for providing game
information. For example, the game controller may be arranged to
generate video and audio data for presentation by the display and
speakers of the gaming machine 20. The game controller may be
arranged to detect a signal from the coin acceptor indicating the
receipt of coins or from the bill validator regarding accepted
bills and for registering credits corresponding to those inputs,
for subtracting credits for wagers placed by a player, and for
causing a coin delivery mechanism to deliver coins from a coin
hopper to the coin tray 30 for payment of winnings and/or return to
a player of unwagered credits. Preferably, the one or more player
input devices provide an output to the gaming controller for use in
play of the game. For example, in response to a "bet one" input by
a player, the gaming controller is preferably transmitted a signal
which causes the gaming controller to initiate presentation of the
game.
[0027] It will be appreciated that the gaming machine 20 may have a
variety of configurations, and that the gaming machine 20
illustrated and described above is but an example of a device for
implementing the game of the present invention. For example, in one
or more embodiments, the gaming machine 20 may be associated with a
network and receive game information remotely and may transmit
information, such as payout and game play information, to a remote
location. For example, a remote master controller may generate game
information which is transmitted over a communication link to the
gaming machine 20. That information may be utilized by a local
controller or processor to present the game, such as by displaying
game play data or information.
[0028] As indicated, in one embodiment, game information is
displayed by a video display 24 to a player. That display may be of
a variety of types, including CRT, LCD, plasma and others. The
gaming machine 20 may also include more than one video display.
[0029] In one embodiment, as described in more detail below, game
information which is presented to a player comprises simulated
reels displaying game symbols. As indicated, these symbols may be
displayed in graphical representation by the display.
[0030] In another embodiment, the gaming machine 20 may include one
or more physical reels capable of displaying symbols. In such a
configuration, means are provided for rotating the physical reels.
In one or more embodiments, the means may comprise a mechanical
linkage associated with a spin arm, with movement of the spin arm
(a "pull") by a user causing the reels to spin. In such an
arrangement, the reels are generally allowed to free-wheel and then
stop. In another embodiment, electronically controlled mechanisms
are arranged to rotate and stop each reel. Such mechanisms are well
known to those of skill in the art. In this arrangement, actuation
of the spin arm or depression a spin button causes a controller
(not shown) to signal the activation of the spin mechanism
associated with one or more of the reels. Preferably, the
controller is arranged to either turn off the signal to the
device(s) effecting the rotation of each or all of the reels or
generates a signal for activating a braking device, whereby the
reels are stopped. As is well known, the combinations of reel
positions and their odds of hitting are associated with the
controller, and the controller is arranged to stop the reels in a
position displaying a combination of indicia as determined by the
controller based on the combinations and odds. The principal of
such an arrangement is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,448,419 to
Telnaes, which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0031] The gaming machine 20 may have other configurations,
including other features. For example, the gaming machine 20 may
include a player tracking device 38, such as a card reader and
associated keypad. Such player tracking devices are well known and
may permit the game operator to track play of players of the gaming
machine. The tracked play may be utilized to offer player bonuses
or awards.
[0032] In one embodiment, the gaming machine 20 may be configured
to dispense media, such as printed paper tickets, which have
associated value. For example, winnings or unused credits may be
returned to the player via a printed ticket having value or
associated value. In one embodiment, the gaming machine 20 might
also be configured to accept such media for providing credit for
game play. Such systems are well known and thus not described in
detail herein.
[0033] It will also be appreciated that the games of the invention
maybe presented or played as table games, such as using card marked
with playing card and symbol information as detailed below.
[0034] In one embodiment, the games of the invention are played as
wagering type games in which a player must place a wager in order
to play the game for an opportunity of winnings. In other
embodiments, the game may be played for fun or prizes. In such
event, the player may be permitted to play the game for free or may
be required to make payment to play the game.
[0035] As indicated above, a player may provide value to the gaming
machine 20 or machine operator in a number of ways, including with
coins or bills. The player might also be permitted to provide value
remotely.
[0036] Once the player provides value, the player preferably places
a wager to play the game. This may be accomplished, in one
embodiment, by the player pressing the "bet one" button 34 or the
"bet max" button 36, or by other means.
[0037] Preferably, in response to the player placing a wager, a
plurality of symbols or indicia are displayed to the player. In one
embodiment, the controller of the gaming machine 20 is configured
to randomly select or generate the symbols which are to be
displayed. Such methods of generation/selection are well known and
may include the generation of random numbers which correspond to
symbols which are to be displayed.
[0038] The symbols are displayed to the player. In one embodiment,
display of the symbols is via the video display 24. As indicated
above, in another embodiment, the display of the symbols could be
by one or more physical devices, such as physical reels, or a
combination of physical reels and virtual reels displayed by a
display.
[0039] Preferably, the outcome of the game is dependent upon the
symbols which are generated and displayed to the player. In
particular, certain combinations of symbols preferably comprise
pre-determined winning combinations of symbols. Other combinations
of symbols are losing combinations.
[0040] Most importantly, in accordance with the invention, the
symbols which are generated and displayed to the player are
selected from a group of symbols comprising playing card symbols
and non-playing card or "slot" symbols.
[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the playing card symbols comprise
one or more of the symbols 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, J, Q, K and
A of the four suits clubs (), spades (), heart () and diamonds
(.diamond.). The card symbols could be selected from a group of
symbols comprising less than all of such cards, or from a group
including additional or other cards, such as card values of other
or additional suits. The playing card symbols may comprise
computer-simulated images of playing cards, may comprise playing
card symbols, or may comprise images of actual playing cards or may
comprise other information, including other types of symbols, which
transmits or provides playing card value and/or suit
information.
[0042] In one embodiment, symbols comprising or representing at
least one of each of the cards of a standard fifty-two (52) card
deck of cards are used in play of the game. In another embodiment,
only symbols corresponding to a "partial" deck of cards may be
used. For example, in one embodiment, only one or more of the
playing cards 10, J, Q, K and A of each of the four suits (or
equivalent representations of those cards) are utilized.
[0043] The non-playing card symbols may be of a variety of types.
Preferably, the non-playing card symbols comprise symbols which can
be distinguished from the playing card symbols as not comprising
playing card symbols. In the embodiment illustrated, the symbols
are common slot machine symbols, such as BAR, 7, Cherries and the
like. In the event the gaming machine 20 is themed, the non-playing
card symbols maybe associated with that theme. One again, the
symbols could be computer generated, comprise images of actual
items or elements or the like.
[0044] As detailed below, the symbols could be displayed in a
variety of formats or arrangements. In an embodiment of the
invention where the symbols are displayed by a video display, the
symbols are preferably displayed in a plurality of columns similar
to the manner symbols are displayed by physical rotatable reels in
well-known slot machines. In such a configuration, each column may
display a plurality of symbols. In one common configuration, five
(5) columns of three (3) symbols, thus comprising a three (3) by
five (5) matrix of symbols, are displayed. The symbols could be
displayed in a variety of other configurations, such as in
positions of a square matrix, a pyramid or other patterns.
[0045] An outcome of the game is determined by or from the
combination of symbols which is generated and/or displayed. In one
embodiment, one or more combinations of symbols are declared
"winning" combinations. Those combinations may be referred to as
"predetermined winning combinations," since it is predetermined
that those combinations, if generated as a result of game play,
comprise winning combinations.
[0046] In one embodiment, it is determined if the generated symbols
comprise any predetermined winning combination(s) of symbols. In a
preferred embodiment, this determination is made, in at least one
instance, with respect to symbols appearing along paylines and,
preferably, active paylines.
[0047] In one embodiment, the generated symbols are displayed with
reference to one or more paylines. Preferably, paylines define
groups of two or more symbol locations. In one embodiment, the
symbols may be displayed in a matrix format. In such instance, the
paylines may be linear or non-linear. For example, the paylines may
be common straight horizontal lines, or may be vertical, diagonal,
"V" or other shapes/configurations. Preferably, however, one or
more symbols are displayed with reference to one or more of the
paylines.
[0048] In one embodiment, the size of a player's wager determines
the number of paylines which are activated. A minimum wager may
activate one or more paylines, while larger wagers than the minimum
may activate additional or all of the paylines. For example, there
may be five (5) paylines and the player may be permitted to place a
wager of one (1) to five (5) credits. In such a configuration, one
(1) payline may be activated for each credit which is wagered.
Thus, all five (5) paylines would only be activated in the event
the player wagered a five (5) credit wager.
[0049] In one embodiment, winning combinations include one or more
combinations of non-playing card symbols. Preferably, winning
combinations of non-playing card symbols must be associated with a
payline and, more preferably, an active payline. For example, a
combination of symbols comprising all of the same symbol along an
active payline may be declared a winning combination. One or more
combinations of non-playing card symbols may be declared winning
combinations. The particular combinations which comprise winning
combinations may be determined based upon a number of factors,
including the desired house hold for the game.
[0050] In one embodiment, winning combinations also include one or
more combinations of playing card symbols. Preferably, winning
combinations of playing card symbols include any combinations of
such symbols, regardless of their location. In this configuration,
the playing card symbols which comprise a predetermined winning
combination of symbols may be `scattered` or displayed anywhere,
not necessarily groups of such symbols only along a payline or
active payline. The particular combinations of playing card symbols
which comprise winning combinations may vary. In one embodiment,
such combinations comprise one or more combinations of cards
forming poker hands or poker card combinations. Such combinations
may comprise, for example, a minimum high card, a Pair, Two Pair,
Three of a Kind, a Full House, a Straight, a Flush, Four of a Kind,
a Straight Flush and/or a Royal Flush, among others.
[0051] Winning combinations may also comprise additional or other
combinations of cards (including combinations which are not
"traditional" poker hands), such as straights of three or four
cards, a Five of a Kind, or others. In fact, winning combinations
of cards may be based upon a variety of different criteria. For
example, in one embodiment, a player may attempt to form a
Blackjack or Baccarat hand from the displayed card indicia. A
player might be rewarded, for example, for obtaining a card value
total of eight (8) or nine (9) in an embodiment where the card
indicia are utilized to form a Baccarat hand. A player might be
rewarded, for example, for obtaining a card value total of twenty
(20) or twenty-one (21) in an embodiment where the card indicia are
utilized to form a Blackjack hand. In other embodiments, a "game"
hand of Baccarat or Blackjack may be dealt (such as by being
generated and displayed at the beginning of the game) and the
player may win only if the displayed card indicia "beats" the game
hand.
[0052] In a preferred embodiment, a player is awarded winnings for
winning outcomes. As indicated above, such winnings may comprise a
monetary award, credits, points, or tangible prizes. In one
embodiment, the size or value of the award may vary proportionately
to the probability of receiving a winning combination. For example,
a player may be paid a greater amount of winnings for a combination
of non-playing card symbols which is less likely to be obtained
than a combination of such symbols which is more likely to be
obtained.
[0053] One example of the play of such a game will be described
with reference to FIG. 2. As illustrated, a gaming machine is
configured to display a plurality of symbols. Those symbols may
comprise playing card and non-playing card symbols. The symbols may
be displayed via mechanical reels, a video display or
otherwise.
[0054] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, three paylines PL1,
PL2 and PL3 are designated. These paylines comprise horizontal
lines corresponding to rows of symbol positions. As indicated
above, other paylines or payline configurations may be
utilized.
[0055] As indicated, a player may be required to place a wager of a
certain size in order to "activate" the paylines. For example, by
placing a minimum wager, payline PL1 may be activated and the
player may be permitted to play the game. The player may be
required to place a larger wager in order to activate the
additional paylines PL2 and/or PL3.
[0056] The game symbols are generated and displayed to the player.
One such set of symbols is illustrated in FIG. 2. As illustrated,
the set of symbols which was generated and displayed comprised some
playing card symbols (such as the A, A.diamond., and 10), and
non-playing card symbols such as BAR, CHERRY, 7 and WILD. In one
embodiment, the WILD symbol may be designated to comprise any
symbol.
[0057] It is determined if the player received any combination of
non-playing card symbols which comprise predetermined winning
combinations of symbols. As indicated above, in a preferred
embodiment, such symbols must lie along an active payline. Assuming
the combination of symbols 7-7-7-7-7 is a winning combination (as
illustrated in FIG. 2, the gaming machine may be configured to
display, such as on the machine or via menu feature, what
combinations of symbols comprise winning combination and the
associated winning or result associated with that combination) and
that payline PL3 is active, the player has received that winning
combination along payline PL3 (with the WILD symbol substituting as
a 7 symbol).
[0058] In addition, it is determined if the player received any
combination of playing card symbols which comprise a predetermined
winning combination of symbols. As indicated, predetermined winning
combinations of playing card symbols may comprise combinations of
symbols which are commonly designated as winning in the game of
poker/video poker. As also indicated, in a preferred embodiment,
the combination of playing card symbols which comprise a
predetermined winning combination of symbols may be located
anywhere, not necessarily along a payline or active payline.
[0059] Assuming that the playing card combination a "Pair of Jacks
or Better" is designated a winning combination, then in the game
result indicated in FIG. 2, the player has received a winning
playing card combination. In FIG. 2, that combination comprises the
playing cards A and A.diamond..
[0060] As indicated above, the player may be awarded a prize or
winning for these winning combinations.
[0061] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a
player may be permitted to replace one or more of the symbols. In
one embodiment, a player may be permitted replace one or more
individual symbols or "respin" one or more reels or columns of
symbols. In the case of mechanical reels, this may actually
comprise the respinning of one or more reels. In the case of a
video type game, this may simply comprise the generation of one or
more new symbols and the display of those symbols in replacement of
other symbols.
[0062] In one embodiment, a player may obtain one or more winning
results (and be awarded winnings) for the base or main event, as
well as the secondary or bonus event or respin. In a preferred
embodiment, the player is awarded only for winning non-playing card
or slot symbols in the first spin or display, and is only awarded
for winning card symbols after the replacement/spin(s).
[0063] One example of this embodiment game will be described with
reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. FIG. 3 illustrates the outcome of the
base or main game in which a first set of symbols are selected and
displayed, those symbols comprising one or more playing card and/or
non-playing card symbols. In accordance with that main game or
event, it is determined if the player received any winning
outcomes. Preferably, this comprises determining if the player
received any winning non-playing card symbols. As illustrated, the
player might be deemed to have received a winning combination of
non-playing card symbols, such as the combination of two (2)
CHERRIES along payline PL3 or the like, depending on the particular
combinations of symbols which are designated winning combinations
of symbols.
[0064] In accordance with this embodiment invention, the player may
be permitted to replace one or more of the symbols from the first
set of symbols. In a configuration where symbols are arranged in
groups in "reel" format, the player may be permitted to "respin"
one or more of the reels in an attempt to receive other symbols
which might form a winning combination of symbols. In a preferred
embodiment, the player may replace one or more symbols in an
attempt to obtain a winning set of card symbols.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 3, in the original display or presentation
of symbols, the player has received all but one card necessary to
form a Royal Flush poker hand. In particular, the player has
received the A, K, Q and J of Diamonds (.diamond.) as part of the
symbols displayed in the first four reels R1, R2, R3 and R4. As
such, the player may elect to spin the last reel, R5, in attempt to
obtain card necessary to form the Royal Flush, namely the 10 of
Diamonds (.diamond.).
[0066] In one embodiment, the player may make a selection of one or
more reels to spin (or symbols to replace) or the player may make a
selection of reels to hold (or symbols to hold), with the remaining
reel(s) respinning (or symbols being replaced). As illustrated in
FIG. 4, as a result of the respin, a new set of symbols are
generated and displayed at reel R5. In this case, the respin
resulted in the display of the symbol 10 of Diamonds (.diamond.).
As a result, the player may be declared to have received a winning
card symbol combination (a Royal Flush), and may be awarded
corresponding winnings. The player may also not be required to
replace or respin. For example, if the player received a winning
set of card symbols in the original display of symbols, the player
may wish to keep those card symbols as a winning combination. The
player might, however, also wish to try and obtain a better set of
card symbols by replacement/respin.
[0067] In one embodiment, the game may include an "auto-hold"
feature. This feature may be activated by the player or may be a
default setting or implementation of the game which the player may
deactivate. The "auto-hold" feature may implement an optimum play
strategy, evaluating the reels for card symbols and making a
selection of one or more of the reels to hold/spin or symbols to
replace in an attempt to obtain a winning hand of card symbols.
This feature has the benefit of not requiring the player to
evaluate the displayed symbols and make complex decisions regarding
the formation of winning card symbol combinations.
[0068] A variety of advantages and features of the game will now be
appreciated. First, a game is provided which has the excitement of
the game of slots in which groups of symbols are displayed in
attempt to obtaining winning combinations. At the same time, a
card-type game is presented where a player attempts to obtain
winning combinations or sets of cards. Advantageously, in one
embodiment a player is permitted to employ a strategy to obtain
winning combinations of card symbols and/or non-playing card
symbols by replacing one or more existing symbols with one or more
new symbols.
[0069] A variety of configurations of the games of the invention
are contemplated. As indicated, in one embodiment, winning
combinations of non-playing card symbols are declared only if the
symbols appear along a payline, and winning combinations of card
symbols are declared if the symbols appear anywhere. The game may
be configured so that playing card symbols must also appear along a
payline to be declared winning combinations, and/or winning
combinations of non-playing card symbols may be declared regardless
of whether the symbols appear along a payline. In one embodiment,
playing card symbols are evaluated by determining the "best" result
when considering at most one card symbol per reel. For example, if
two Ace symbols appear on a single reel, then these symbols may not
form a Pair of Aces. Instead, only one of those Ace symbols may be
used, in conjunction with the card symbols on one or more of the
other reels, to form winning or non-winning results.
[0070] As also indicated above, while in a preferred embodiment
combinations of non-playing card symbols are evaluated after the
first display and combinations of playing card symbols are
evaluated after the replacement/respin opportunity(ies). In another
embodiment, the symbols could be evaluated for both winning playing
card and non-playing card symbols at both times.
[0071] In one embodiment, WILD or other symbols may be utilized,
those symbols having special meaning or import. For example, a WILD
symbol may serve as any playing card symbol and/or any non-playing
card symbol.
[0072] In one embodiment, symbols are displayed in columns, each
column of symbols associated with a reel, whether the reel is
actual or "virtual" in the case where the symbols are displayed via
a video display. In that configuration, "reels" may be spun and
respun. Of course, symbols may be displayed and replaced in other
fashions. For example, the player may be permitted to select
specific symbols for replacement, or rows or other combinations of
symbols.
[0073] Preferably, symbols are randomly selected for replacement of
other symbols in the case of a respin feature. In such event, the
same symbol or a different symbol may be selected for replacement
of a prior symbol. In one embodiment, symbols may be selected from
a group of symbols with symbols not being capable of re-selection
or re-use during the same game. Such a configuration is
particularly applicable to the playing card symbols. For example,
if a player receives a particular playing card symbol in a column
or reel, then upon respin, that same playing card (having already
been used) may not be re-selected for re-display during that same
game.
[0074] In one embodiment, the total number of symbols which the
player is permitted to select for replacement (such as the number
of reels which the player may respin) may be limited. For example,
a player may be permitted to respin at most two reels, or replace
at most 5 symbols. In another embodiment, the respin/replacement
maybe done automatically without player input, such as in random
fashion via the controller. It is also noted that symbols could be
replaced in various ways, including by replacement of individual
symbols (such as symbols which are "touched" on a touch-screen), by
spinning columns or rows of "reels" of the symbols, or by shifting
or otherwise moving symbols.
[0075] In an embodiment where the "reels" are respun, the symbols
which are displayed after the respin may include card and/or
non-card symbols. In other embodiments, a "respin" may result in
replacement of only the displayed card symbols. The card symbols
may be replaced with other card symbols or, in one embodiment, a
non-card symbol. Thus, after a respin, a player may actually end up
with a "worse" hand than before.
[0076] In one embodiment of the invention, the probability of
receiving a playing card symbol is less than the probability of
receiving a non-playing card symbol, such that, a greater number of
non-playing card symbols are generally displayed. For example, in
the case of mechanical reels, the ratio of non-playing card symbols
to playing card symbols may be 10 to 1. In the case of a video type
implementation, symbols may be selected from a group of possible
symbols. Again, the ratio of the non-playing card to playing card
symbols may be 10 to 1. Of course, in other embodiments, the
probabilities of receiving such symbols may be the same, or the
probabilities of receiving playing and non-playing card symbols may
be the same. Where game symbols are randomly selected, it may be
possible for the set of symbols to not include any playing card
symbols (i.e. all non-playing card symbols are displayed) or
non-playing card symbols (i.e. all playing card symbols are
displayed).
[0077] As described, a player may be provided with the opportunity
to win both the base game and have a second opportunity to win
after replacement of one or more symbols. In one embodiment, the
outcome of the game may only be determined after the player has
replaced the one or more symbols (in which case a player may only
receive winnings for winning combinations received after the symbol
replacement, and not additionally when the symbols are first
displayed).
[0078] In one embodiment, a player may be provided one or more
additional opportunities to replace one or more symbols in addition
to a first opportunity. A player may be permitted to respin one or
more reels or replace one or more symbols after a first opportunity
to respin one or more reels or replace one or more symbols. In one
embodiment, a player is required to place an additional wager in
order to be provided this opportunity. The player may be required
to place this extra wager at the beginning of the game, before the
first replacement/respin opportunity, or before each additional
replacement/respin opportunity. For example, after a first respin,
a player may still not have a winning set of card symbols. The
player may place an additional wager, however, and respin one or
more of the reels or otherwise replace one or more of the symbols
in a further attempt to obtain a winning set of card symbols. In an
embodiment where the player is provided the opportunity for winning
slot symbols after symbol replacement, evaluation of the slot
symbols may be made after replacement.
[0079] The game may be presented in the form of a Class II type
game or as part of such a game. It is known to play a Class II type
game such as bingo and present the results of such a game as the
outcome of a Class III type game. For example, based upon results
of a Class II bingo game, a set of symbols as described above may
be displayed to the player. That set of symbols may have a
particular combination of winning symbols which corresponds to the
outcome of the Class II game, thus representing the outcome of the
Class II game in the format described above.
[0080] One embodiment of the invention is a gaming machine
configured to present the game. In one embodiment, the gaming
machine includes a controller and at least one display. The
controller is configured to generate game information comprising
data representing playing card and non-playing card symbols. The
display is configured to display the symbols based upon the
generated data. As indicated, the controller may be configured to
receive input such as wager information and other player input. The
controller is also configured to determine game results and, if
appropriate, award winnings.
[0081] In another embodiment, the gaming machine may include a
controller and one or more physical reels capable of displaying the
game indicia. Preferably, the controller is configured to generate
game information which is used to control the reels, including
spinning of the reels and stopping of the reels in particular
positions, such as in the manner described above in greater detail.
Again, the controller may be configured to receive player input and
award winnings.
[0082] As indicated above, the controller may be a single
processing unit or device directly associated with the gaming
machine, or may comprise one or more elements located remote from
one another. For example, a main controller may be configured to
generate game information which is routed to local game
controllers.
[0083] The game may also be played in Internet and other
distributed environments. For example, the game may be presented to
a player at a home computer. In one embodiment, a player may access
a website which is supported by a remote host server. The host
server may generate game information which is transmitted to the
player's computer for display.
[0084] The game of the invention may be played as a bonus event or
as part of other games, and/or itself may include bonus events. For
example, in one embodiment, the game of the invention may be played
as a bonus event as part of one or more main games. In such event,
a player may not be required to place a wager to be entitled to
play the game, but may instead become entitled to play the game as
a result of the play of a base game (which itself may require a
wager in order to be played).
[0085] It will be understood that the above described arrangements
of apparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative of
applications of the principles of this invention and many other
embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
* * * * *