U.S. patent application number 11/502148 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-15 for associative community bonus round.
This patent application is currently assigned to Spectre Gaming, Inc.. Invention is credited to Braun Martin.
Application Number | 20070060330 11/502148 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46325868 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070060330 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Martin; Braun |
March 15, 2007 |
Associative community bonus round
Abstract
A software product for gaming can comprise software operational
when executed by a processor to direct the processor to activate an
associative community bonus round on a first game machine, select a
second game machine to join the first game machine in an
associative community bonus round game, transmit an initiation
message to the selected second game machine, and display the
associative community bonus round game on the first game machine.
The software product may be stored in a storage medium.
Inventors: |
Martin; Braun; (Roseville,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CARR & FERRELL LLP
2200 GENG ROAD
PALO ALTO
CA
94303
US
|
Assignee: |
Spectre Gaming, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
46325868 |
Appl. No.: |
11/502148 |
Filed: |
August 9, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11202483 |
Aug 11, 2005 |
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11502148 |
Aug 9, 2006 |
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60707048 |
Aug 9, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3276 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/029 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A software product for gaming, the software product comprising:
software operational when executed by a processor to direct the
processor to activate an associative community bonus round on a
first game machine, select a second game machine to join the first
game machine in an associative community bonus round game, transmit
an initiation message to the selected second game machine, and
display the associative community bonus round game on the first
game machine; and a storage medium configured to store the
software.
2. The software product of claim 1 wherein activation of the
associative community bonus round is based on a normal play game
result on the first game machine.
3. The software product of claim 1 wherein selection of the second
game machine is based on a player association between a first user
of the first game machine and a second user of the second game
machine within a player loyalty system.
4. The software product of claim 1 wherein the initiation message
is configured to initiate display of the associative community
bonus round game on the selected second game machine.
5. The software product of claim 1 wherein the software is
operational when further executed by the processor to determine an
associative bonus round game result and determine a prize to a
first user of the first game machine based on the associative bonus
round game result.
6. The software product of claim 1 wherein a bonus display of the
first game machine displays the associative community bonus round
game.
7. The software product of claim 1 wherein the software is
operational when further executed by the processor to display a
prize to a first user of the first game machine.
8. The software product of claim 7 wherein the software is
operational when further executed by the processor to store prize
information associated with the prize within a player loyalty
system.
9. The software product of claim 1 wherein the software is
operational when further executed by the processor to process game
logic of the associative bonus round game.
10. The software product of claim 1 wherein the first game machine
comprises a slot machine.
11. The software product of claim 1 wherein the first game machine
comprises an amusement device.
12. The software product of claim 1 wherein the software is
operational when executed by the processor to command the first
game machine to award one or more points redeemable by a first
user.
13. A method of gaming, the method comprising: activating an
associative community bonus round on a first game machine;
selecting a second game machine to join the first game machine in
an associative community bonus round game; transmitting an
initiation message to the selected second game machine; and
displaying the associative community bonus round game on the first
game machine.
14. The method of claim 13 wherein activating the associative
community bonus round is based on a normal play game result on the
first game machine.
15. The method of claim 13 wherein selecting the second game
machine is based on a player association between a first user of
the first game machine and a second user of the second game machine
within a player loyalty system.
16. The method of claim 13 wherein the initiation message is
configured to initiate displaying the associative community bonus
round game on the selected second game machine.
17. The method of claim 13 further comprising: determining an
associative bonus round game result; and determining a prize to a
first user of the first game machine based on the associative bonus
round game result.
18. The method of claim 13 wherein a bonus display of the first
game machine displays the associative community bonus round
game.
19. The method of claim 13 further comprising displaying a prize to
a first user of the first game machine.
20. The method of claim 19 further comprising storing prize
information associated with the prize within a player loyalty
system.
21. The method of claim 13 further comprising processing game logic
of the associative bonus round game within the first game
machine.
22. The method of claim 13 further comprising processing game logic
of the associative bonus round game within a bonus server.
23. The method of claim 13 wherein the first game machine comprises
a slot machine.
24. The method of claim 13 wherein the first game machine comprises
an amusement device.
25. The method of claim 13 further comprising commanding the first
game machine to award one or more points redeemable by a first
user.
26. A gaming system comprising: a first game machine configured to
activate an associative community bonus round, select a second game
machine to join within an associative bonus round game, and display
an associative community bonus round game; and the selected second
game machine configured to display the associative community bonus
round game.
27. The system of claim 26 wherein activating the associative
community bonus round is based on a normal play game result on the
first game machine.
28. The system of claim 26 wherein selecting the second game
machine is based on a player association between a first user of
the first game machine and a second user of the second game machine
within a player loyalty system.
29. The system of claim 26 wherein the first game machine is
further configured to determine an associative bonus round game
result and determine a prize to a first user of the first game
machine based on the associative bonus round game result.
30. The system of claim 26 wherein a bonus display of the first
game machine displays the associative community bonus round
game.
31. The system of claim 26 wherein the first game machine is
further configured to display a prize to first user of the first
game machine.
32. The system of claim 26 wherein the first game machine is
further configured to process the game logic of the associative
bonus round game.
33. The system of claim 26 further comprising a bonus server
configured to process the game logic of the associative bonus round
game.
34. The system of claim 26 wherein the first game machine comprises
a slot machine.
35. The system of claim 26 wherein the first game machine comprises
an amusement device.
36. The system of claim 26 wherein the first processor is
configured to command the first game machine to award one or more
points redeemable by a first user.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/202,483 titled "Community Bonus Round
Gaming" filed Aug. 11, 2005, and claims the priority of U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/707,048 titled "Community Bonus
Round Gaming," filed Aug. 9, 2005, which are both hereby
incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to gaming, and more
particularly, to community bonus round gaming.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] With the continued expansion of casino gambling, casino
companies must compete more than ever for gambling dollars. To
attract customers, casino companies are avoiding the traditional
short-term, stop-gap solutions (e.g. increasing the buffet
offering, giving rooms away, advertising double and triple points)
and focusing on improving the guest's overall casino
experience.
[0006] One technique to improve the guest's casino experience is to
implement a bonus game in slot machines. A bonus game may be
triggered during normal game play on a slot machine and offers
players a new game. For example, a video poker slot machine offered
International Game Technology (IGT) triggers a bonus game when
certain conditions are met. Once bonus game play is complete, the
IGT video poker slot machine resumes normal game play.
[0007] Another example of improving the casino experience is a slot
machine with progressive payouts. As each individual slot machine
plays a game, the progressive payout increases. The slot machine
displays the progressive payout on a large screen to encourage
other players to participate. The server collects information
regarding the income received from the different slot machines and
creates a jackpot. When the specific slot machine "hits the
jackpot" such as triples sevens, the specific slot machine wins the
progressive payout. An example of the slot machine with progressive
payouts is the "Wheel of Fortune" slot machine.
[0008] There are approximately 754,000 slot machines currently
installed in North America. This represents a 400% increase from
the number of machines installed in 1991. Although many of these
slot machines appear to have different games, operate as slot
machines with progressive payouts, or offer a bonus game, the vast
majority of slot machines operate extremely similarly. For example,
the "Terminator" slot machine plays the same game as the "I Love
Lucy" slot machine. Aside from slight differences in graphics and
sound, game play has not significantly changed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] A software product for gaming can comprise software
operational when executed by a processor to direct the processor to
activate an associative community bonus round on a first game
machine, select a second game machine to join the first game
machine in an associative community bonus round game, transmit an
initiation message to the selected second game machine, and display
the associative community bonus round game on the first game
machine. The software product may be stored in a storage medium. A
bonus display of the first game machine can display the associative
community bonus round and a prize to the first user.
[0010] A normal play game result on the first game machine can
activate the associative community bonus round. Selection of the
second game machine may be based on a player association between a
first user of the first game machine and a second user of the
second game machine within a player loyalty system. The initiation
message can initiate display of the associative community bonus
round game on the selected second game machine.
[0011] The software product can also comprise software operational
when executed by the processor to determine an associative bonus
round game result and determine a prize to a first user of the
first game machine based on the associative bonus round game
result. A player loyalty system can store prize information
associated with the prize. Further, the software product can also
comprise software operational when executed by the processor to
process game logic of the associative bonus round game. The first
game machine can comprise a slot machine or an amusement device. In
addition, the software product can comprise software operational
when executed by the processor to command the first game machine to
award one or more points redeemable by a first user.
[0012] A method of gaming can comprise activating an associative
community bonus round on a first game machine, selecting a second
game machine to join the first game machine in an associative
community bonus round game, transmitting an initiation message to
the selected second game machine, and displaying the associative
community bonus round game on the first game machine.
[0013] A gaming system can comprise a first game machine and a
second game machine. The first game machine activates an
associative community bonus round, selects the second game machine
to join within an associative bonus round game, and displays an
associative community bonus round game. The second game machine
display the associative community bonus round game.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a system for gaming in one
embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a game machine in one
embodiment of the invention.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
a community bonus round in one embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
a community bonus round in another embodiment of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the game machine in one
embodiment of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a game machine module in one
embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a bonus server module in one
embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 8 is an illustration of images depicting an associative
community bonus round game in one embodiment of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
an associative community bonus round in one embodiment of the
invention.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
an associative community bonus round in another embodiment of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] The embodiments discussed herein are illustrative of one
example of the present invention. As these embodiments of the
present invention are described with reference to illustrations,
various modifications or adaptations of the methods and/or specific
structures described may become apparent to those skilled in the
art. All such modifications, adaptations, or variations that rely
upon the teachings of the present invention, and through which
these teachings have advanced the art, are considered to be within
the scope of the present invention. Hence, these descriptions and
drawings should not be considered in a limiting sense, as it is
understood that the present invention is in no way limited to only
the embodiments illustrated.
[0025] Community bonus round game play across multiple game
machines allows multiple players to participate in the same game. A
game machine is a machine that allows a player to input data and/or
money into the game machine to play a game for the opportunity to
win points, currency, awards, or prizes. One example of the game
machine is a slot machine.
[0026] In one embodiment, the game machine allows the player to
play games much like a traditional slot machine. However, a
community bonus round may be triggered to engage the game machine
in a community bonus round. Simultaneously, or soon thereafter, one
or more other game machines may be invited to join the community
bonus round thereby allowing other players to participate within
the same community bonus round. In one example, players cooperate
within the community bonus round to maximize scores for all
participants. Alternatively, the community bonus round may allow
multiple players to compete with each other for points, currency,
awards, or prizes. In another example, players may receive a bonus
by merely playing within the community bonus round.
[0027] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a system for gaming 100 in one
embodiment of the invention. The system for gaming 100 comprises
the bonus server 110, the game machines 120, 130, and 140, and the
communications network 150. The communications network 150 is
coupled to the bonus server 110 and the game machines 120, 130, and
140.
[0028] The communications network 150 may comprise a single device
or multiple devices. In one embodiment, the communications network
150 is a router that routes data to a limited number of devices. In
another embodiment, the communications network 150 comprises
multiple routers, bridges, and hubs that couple a larger number of
devices. A communications network 150 may be a local area network
(LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a globally accessible network,
such as the Internet, or any other network that allows devices to
communicate and transmit data to each other.
[0029] Although the communications network 150 illustrated within
FIG. 1 appears to be a "star" topology (i.e. each device
communicates to a central hub), the communications network 150 may
be any topology. In one example, the communications network 150
comprises a peer-to-peer network wherein the devices connect
directly to each other in a "ring" topology.
[0030] The bonus server 110 is any device or system configured to
generate and transmit an initiation message to the game machines
120, 130, and 140, to initiate the community bonus round, receive
game information from the game machines 120, 130, and 140, and
determine a result for the community bonus round.
[0031] The initiation message is any signal, message, or
instruction that directs the game machines 120, 130, or 140 to
activate the community bonus round. The initiation message may
further comprise a message to the players of the game machines 120,
130, and 140, notifying the players of the impending community
bonus round and requesting further input.
[0032] The community bonus round is any extra, special, premium, or
bonus mode that follows a normal gaming mode and may be played by
two or more game machines 120, 130, and/or 140. In one embodiment,
the community bonus round is triggered upon the occurrence of some
preset condition on one of the game machines 120, 130, or 140.
[0033] In some embodiments, the community bonus round is
collaborative, competitive, or associative. In one example, when
the community bonus round is collaborative, the players of the
first game machine 120 and the other participating game machines
130 and 140 will play together to achieve a bonus goal during the
round. For example, the goal of the community bonus round is to
score more points than some preset limit. If, at the end of the
community bonus round play, the sum of all of the players' points
total more than the preset limit, the bonus server 110 awards
points, currency, awards, or prizes to the players of the
participating game machines 120, 130, and 140. The end of the
community bonus round may be triggered by time expiring, a maximum
number of spins engaged, the sum of the players' scores reaching a
preset limit, or the success of achieving the goal.
[0034] In another example, the community bonus round is
competitive. In this example, the players of the first game machine
120 and the other participating game machines 130 and 140 play
against each other for points, currency, awards, or prizes. The
bonus server 110 may monitor and calculate the individual scores
for the different participating game machines 120, 130, and 140.
When the community bonus round ends, the bonus server 110
determines the winner of the community bonus round. In one example,
the winner of the community bonus round is the first player to
achieve some preset goal. In another example, the winner is the
player who scored the most points within a given time. The
community bonus round may end when time expires, a maximum number
of spins are engaged, or the preset goal is achieved.
[0035] In another example, the community bonus round is
associative. In this example, the players of the first game machine
120 and the other participating game machines 130 and 140 join the
community bonus round and are awarded points, currency, awards, or
prizes for merely participating. For example, the community bonus
round may comprise the first game machine 120 displaying a golfer
hitting a golf ball. Subsequently, the golf ball may be depicted as
bouncing by the participating game machines 130. The golf ball may
also be depicted landing close or into a hole on another
participating game machine 140. The bonus server 110 may then
calculate the scores and results of the community bonus round. For
example, the bonus server 110 may award a higher number of points
to the game machines 120 and 140 that depict the golfer's swing or
the golf hole. The bonus server 110 may award a different number of
points to every participating game machine 130 that depicted the
golf ball bouncing or rolling. The community bonus round ends when
some condition is met. In this example, the community bonus round
ends when the golf ball is depicted as coming to a halt. In some
embodiments, the associative community bonus round is an
associative community bonus round.
[0036] The game information is any information or data that
indicates metrics or results from a game. Some examples of game
information are a state of play of the game machine 120, 130,
and/or 140, player information, status of the community bonus
round, game machine data, a request to join the community bonus
round, a refusal to join the community bonus round, and/or an
acceptance to join the community bonus round.
[0037] The state of play of the game machine 120, 130, and/or 140
comprises the current activity of the game machine 120, 130, and/or
140. States of play may include, but are not limited to, waiting
for a player to initiate game play, normal game play, activating
the community bonus round, playing the community bonus round, or
transitioning from normal game play to the community bonus
round.
[0038] The game information may also comprise the request to join
the community bonus round, the refusal to join the community bonus
round, and/or the acceptance to join the community bonus round. In
one example, the player receives a request to join the community
bonus round on the game machine 120. The player subsequently inputs
the acceptance or refusal to join the community bonus round. The
game machine 120 transmits the acceptance or refusal to the bonus
server 110. In one example, the bonus server 110 or other game
machines 130 or 140 receive the acceptance and then adds the game
machine 120 to an existing community bonus round. In another
example, the game machine 120 performs at least some of the logic
to activate the community bonus round. In this example, the game
machine 120 initiates the community bonus round. The game machine
120 then transmits the request to join the community bonus round to
the bonus server 110, which, in turn, transmits the request to the
other game machine 130 or 140 to join the community bonus
round.
[0039] In one embodiment, the bonus server 110 controls at least
some of the game play on the game machines 120, 130, and/or 140.
For example, the player engages the game machine 120 to play a
game, while the bonus server 110 performs the game logic that
controls the parameters and game execution.
[0040] The game machines 120, 130, and 140 are devices or systems
that are configured to activate the community bonus round and
transmit game information in the community bonus round.
[0041] Although the bonus server 110 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as a
separate device from the game machines 120, 130, or 140, some or
all of the functions of the bonus server 110 may be contained
within a software module of one of the game machines 120, 130, or
140.
[0042] Optionally, an administrative server and a marketing server
(not shown in FIG. 1) may be devices or systems on the
communications network 150. An administrative server maintains
information relating to game play and community bonus round play as
well as metrics from the bonus server 110 and the game machines
120, 130, and 140. In one example, the administrative server
receives and stores scores, player information, wins, losses,
currency received, and the currency paid out by each game machine
120, 130, and 140. The administrative server may perform
calculations to determine the relative success of each game machine
120, 130, and 140. The administrative server may also perform
calculations to determine the relative success of individual games
on the game machines 120, 130, and 140, as well as the outcome of
community bonus rounds. These functions may also be performed by
the bonus server 110. A marketing server may store advertisements
or marketing information. In one example, the marketing server
sends advertisements and/or marketing information to the game
machine 120,130, and 140 to be displayed.
[0043] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a game machine 200 in one
embodiment of the invention. The game machine 200 comprises a bonus
display 210, a primary display 220, a programmable button panel
230, a ticket printer 240, a bill/ticket acceptor 250, a player
loyalty system 260, a coin tray 270, and a candle 280.
[0044] The bonus display 210 and the primary display 220 are any
devices configured to visually interact with the player of the game
machine 200. For example, the bonus display 210 and/or the primary
display may be a television screen, a monitor, a touch-screen, a
tablet display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma device, a
cathode-ray tube (CRT) screen, a flat panel device, a terminal
display, or a rear projection device. In other embodiments, the
bonus display 210 and the primary display 220 are the same display.
The bonus display 210 may be configured to show the game play of
the game machine 200. In one example, the bonus display 210
displays the same game play as the primary display 220 thereby
allowing spectators to view the game play.
[0045] The bonus display 210 may be configured to display
information associated with a community bonus round,
advertisements, games, or player information. In one example, the
bonus display 210 displays information associated with the
community bonus round such as how to play the community bonus
round, when the community bonus round will begin, an offer to join
the community bonus round, community bonus round play or scores.
The primary display 220 may also be configured to display
information associated with the community bonus round.
[0046] In another example, the bonus display 210 is configured to
display advertisements. Advertisements may contain information
selling the functions of the game machine 200, games offered by the
game machine 200, services offered by the owner or leaser of the
game machine, or any other advertisements. The bonus display 210
may also be configured to display available games. In another
embodiment, the bonus display 210 displays scores or gaming results
of the player of the game machine 200. The primary display 220 may
also be configured to display advertisements, available games,
scores, and/or gaming results.
[0047] The programmable button panel 230 is configured to accept
input from the player of the game machine 200. In one example, each
individual buttons on the programmable button panel 230 may be
programmed to perform certain functions. Although ten buttons are
depicted, the programmable button panel 230 may comprise any number
of buttons, joysticks, or switches. The programmable button panel
230 may also comprise a touch screen or other device capable of
accepting player input.
[0048] The ticket printer 240 is any printer capable of printing
receipts, tickets, or other documents for the player or game
machine 200 technician. In some embodiments, the ticket printer 240
may print advertisements or coupons that are redeemable by the
player.
[0049] The bill/ticket acceptor 250 is any device capable of
receiving and reading currency, tokens, or tickets. The bill/ticket
acceptor 250 may comprise a card reader configured to receive and
read credit cards, debit cards, or stored value cards.
[0050] The player loyalty system 260 is any device capable of
receiving player information from the player of the game machine
200. In one embodiment, the player loyalty system 260 comprises a
card reader that may receive and read player information from a
player loyalty card. In some embodiments, the player loyalty system
260 comprises a keypad or touch screen with which the player may
enter a password, input player information, and/or request
services.
[0051] Player information may comprise player identification, game
preferences, time spent playing each game, casino preference, drink
preference, associated friends, family members, clubs, hobbies,
money spent, and winnings. The player information may be stored on
a player loyalty card, bonus server 110 (FIG. 1), and/or game
machine 200. The player loyalty card is any card that may be
carried by a player that contains at least some player
information.
[0052] The status of the community bonus round may indicate the
game machine 200's activation of the community bonus round, the
preparation to begin the community bonus round, or the community
bonus round game play. Game machine data comprises resident games,
software versions, firmware versions, audit history, diagnostic
history, and the amount of currency available in the game machine
200.
[0053] The coin tray 270 is a tray configured to hold coins or
tokens that are issued from the game machine 200. The candle 280 is
a reflector and/or light. In some embodiments, the candle 280
indicates that the game machine 200 requires service or is in a
tilt condition.
[0054] The game machines 200 may generate or receive a command to
award points that are redeemable by the user for prizes. The points
may comprise one or more tickets printed by the ticket printer 240.
In alternative embodiments, the game machines 200 may award points
in the form of vouchers, coupons, or tokens via the coin tray 270
that are redeemable by the user for prizes. The game machines 200
may also award electronic points within a player loyalty system
that are redeemable by the user for prizes. The user may redeem the
points by trading a specified quantity of the points for a prize
selected by the user. Alternatively, selected points may be
redeemed only for a specific prize such as a grand prize. In these
embodiments, the game machine 200 may be an amusement device.
[0055] FIG. 3 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
a community bonus round in one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3
begins with step 300. In step 310, the first game machine 120 (FIG.
1) transmits game information to the bonus server 110. In one
example, a player inputs currency into the first game machine 120.
The first game machine 120 transmits a message to the bonus server
110 indicating that currency has been received and game play has
been initiated.
[0056] In step 320, the bonus server 110 determines a community
bonus round activation on the first game machine 120. In some
embodiments, the bonus server 110 monitors the first game machine
120 or the game logic to determine if the conditions are met. For
example, the bonus server 110 may determine which conditions are
necessary to trigger the community bonus round such as hitting a
jackpot. Accordingly, if the game logic determines that this
condition is to occur, then the bonus server 110 triggers the
community bonus round.
[0057] In step 330, the bonus server 110 generates an initiation
message to the first game machine 120 and one or more other game
machines 130 and/or 140 to initiate the community bonus round. In
some embodiments, the bonus server 110 generates messages to invite
the players on the game machines 120, 130, and 140 to participate
in the community bonus round. The bonus server 110 then generates a
command to prepare the game machines 120, 130, and/or 140 that
accepted joining the community bonus round. In one example, the
bonus server 110 generates a command to the game machines 120, 130
and/or 140 participating within the community bonus round to
display the name and location of each player. In another example,
the bonus server 110 generates a command to the participating game
machines 120, 130 and/or 140 to display rules of the community
bonus round or a count-down of when the community bonus round is to
begin. In a further example, the bonus server 110 downloads
software or data to prepare the game machines 120, 130, and/or 140
to play the community bonus round.
[0058] In step 340, the bonus server 110 activates the community
bonus round on the first game machine 120. In one example, the
bonus server 110 generates a command to activate the community
bonus round to the first game machine 120. The first game machine
120 receives the command, generates the necessary graphics, and
prepares to receive input from the player. In some embodiments, the
bonus server 110 performs the necessary community bonus round logic
and processes player inputs received from the first game machine
120 and other game machines 130 and/or 140.
[0059] In step 350, the bonus server 110 determines results for the
community bonus round. In one example, the bonus server 110
collects scores from the first game machine 120 and the other
participating game machines 130 and/or 140. The final scores may be
calculated by the bonus server 110 as the community bonus round is
played or the final scores may be calculated by the participating
game machines 120, 130, and/or 140. Once the play of the community
bonus round is completed, the bonus server 110 proceeds to
calculate final results depending on the rules of the community
bonus round. FIG. 3 ends in step 360.
[0060] FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
a community bonus round in another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 begins in step 400. In step 405, the player initiates game
play. In one example, the player inputs currency, tokens, or
tickets into the bill/ticket acceptor 250 (FIG. 2) of the game
machine 120 (FIG. 1).
[0061] In step 410, the game machine 120 sends a game play event to
the bonus server 110. In one example, the game machine 120 tracks
the amount of currency received and prepares to initiate a game.
The game machine 120 notifies the bonus server 110 that the player
initiated game play. In some embodiments, the bonus server 110
directs the game machine 120 to display a selection of games to the
player and prepare to receive a player selection. The player may
input the selection with the programmable button panel 230 or
through the touch-screen primary display 220. The game machine 120
directs the game selection to the bonus server 110 which then
generates a control signal to the game machine 120 to display
necessary graphics and program the appropriate inputs to play the
selected game. The bonus server 110 also performs the game logic
necessary to play the game. While the game is played, the game
machine 120 transmits player inputs to the bonus server 110 which
generates appropriate commands depending on the game logic.
[0062] In step 415, the bonus server 110 determines if the
community bonus round is triggered. The bonus server 110 monitors
the game play and the state of the game machine 120 to determine if
those conditions are met. If the conditions are not met, FIG. 4
ends in step 450.
[0063] If the conditions are met, then FIG. 4 continues to step 420
where the bonus server 110 selects game machines 120, 130, and/or
140 and determines the bonus messages.
[0064] The bonus server 110 selects game machines 200 to join the
community bonus round. The bonus server 110 may determine if any
conflicts or game incompatibilities exist within each possible game
machine 120, 130, and/or 140. In some embodiments, the bonus server
110 reviews player information to determine if any players are
associated with each other. If there are available players or club
members associated with the player playing the game machine 120
that has begun the community bonus round, the bonus server 110 may
determine bonus messages. In one example, the bonus server 110
generates a command to display an invitation for the community
bonus round to those players.
[0065] In one example, the bonus server 110 notifies the select
game machines 120, 130, and/or 140 that a community bonus round has
been triggered. The bonus server 110 commands the select game
machines 120, 130, and/or 140 to display messages and graphics to
the player on the game machines' primary display 220 or bonus
display 210.
[0066] In other embodiments, the bonus server 110 contacts other
bonus servers 110 to coordinate community bonus round logic between
a plurality of game machines 120, 130, and 140.
[0067] In step 425, the bonus server 110 sends a start community
bonus round signal to the select game machines 120, 130, and/or 140
identified in step 420 and begins timing. In one example, bonus
server 110 generates commands to the select game machines 120, 130,
and/or 140 to load a game interface, display necessary graphics,
and program the respective programmable button panels 230 to play
the community bonus round. In another example, the bonus server 110
generates a signal to the select game machines 120, 130, and/or 140
to display a countdown on the respective bonus displays 210 to
herald the beginning of the community bonus round.
[0068] In step 430, the select game machines 120, 130, and/or 140
begin the community bonus round. Any graphics and community bonus
round play may be depicted on the select game machines' bonus
display 210, the primary display 220, or both.
[0069] In step 435, the select game machines 120, 130, and/or 140
send scores to the bonus server 110. In some embodiments, the bonus
server 110 monitors the select game machines 120, 130, and/or 140
while directing community bonus round logic. In one example, the
bonus server 110 tallies and calculates the scores of the select
game machines 120, 130, and/or 140 during community bonus round
play.
[0070] In step 440, the bonus server 110 calculates and transmits
the community bonus round results to the select game machines 120,
130, and/or 140. In step 445, the bonus server 110 transmits
messages to select game machines 120, 130, and/or 140. In some
embodiments, the bonus server 110 directs the select game machines
120, 130, and/or 140 to display the results of the community bonus
round play, award points, currency, awards, or prizes, and print
tickets or receipts. The bonus server 110 then directs the select
game machines 120, 130, and/or 140 to return to normal game play.
FIG. 4 ends in step 450.
[0071] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the game machine 200 in one
embodiment of the invention. The game machine 200 includes a system
bus 580 coupled to a processor 510, memory system 520, storage
system 530, input/output (I/O) interface 540, communications
(corn.) network interface 550, primary display 220, and the bonus
display 210. The communications network interface 550 is further
coupled to an external communications link 590.
[0072] The processor 510 is configured to execute software or
instructions. The memory system 520 is any memory device configured
to hold data, either permanently or temporarily, to make the data
available to any components connected to the system bus 580. The
memory system 520 may comprise battery-backed random access memory
or read-only memory (ROM).
[0073] The storage system 530 is any storage device or group of
storage devices configured to store data permanently or
temporarily. In one embodiment, the storage system 530 implements a
Read/Verify-after-Write (RVAW) policy where data is verified after
being stored within the storage system 530. Further, the storage
system 530 may comprise a storage device configured to receive and
read external media.
[0074] The I/O interface 540 is any interface or device configured
to provide input or output to the player of the game machine 200.
For example, the I/O interface 540 may comprise a video interface,
audio interface, a remote control, a keypad, joystick,
touch-screen, or buttons. In another embodiment, the I/O interface
540 is coupled to the programmable button panel 230, the ticket
printer 240, the bill/ticket acceptor 250, and the player loyalty
system 260 which are each depicted in FIG. 2.
[0075] The communications network interface 550 is any
communication interface configured to transfer data between any
components connected to the system bus 580 and any network over the
external communications link 590. The external communications link
590 couples the game machine 200 to any communications network.
[0076] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the game machine module 600 in
one embodiment of the invention. The game machine module 600 is
software or hardware that is resident on the game machine 200 (FIG.
2). The game machine module 600 comprises a game client 610, client
manager 620, client tilt engine 630, client state manager 640,
client diagnostic module 650, client communication manager 660,
client administrative console module 670, and game machine device
drivers 680.
[0077] The game client 610 is an application configured to perform
standard functions on the game machine 200. In some embodiments,
the game client 610 processes game machine 200 inputs (e.g. a
button press), communicates game events to the bonus server 110
(FIG. 1), controls output to the bonus display 210 (FIG. 2),
controls output to the primary display 220, and/or maintains the
game machine 200 state. In some embodiments, the game client 610
relies on data libraries, such as tilt and bonus server libraries,
to perform standard functions.
[0078] The client manager 620 may function as the software
controller for the game machine 200. The client manager 620 manages
the game machine 200 configuration, loads games, unloads games and
manages the display of marketing events.
[0079] The client manager 620 may also control the display of
advertisements. In some embodiments, the client manager 620 may
receive advertisements from a marketing server. When an
advertisement is received by the client manager 620, the client
manager 620 passes the advertisement to the game client 610 to be
displayed.
[0080] The client tilt engine 630 generates tilts on error
conditions in order to prevent cheating and flag errors in game
play. For example, the client tile engine 630 triggers tilt
conditions by errors associated with money, tampering with the game
machine 200, alterations with software and/or firmware, or the
behavior of third party systems.
[0081] The client state manager 640 monitors the operation and
state of the game machine 200. The client state manager 640 is a
repository of the current and past data for the game machine 200
and may function to maintain the data for the game machine's 200
hardware and software components.
[0082] The client diagnostic module 650 provides hardware and
software diagnostic tests. For example, the client diagnostic
module 650 checks the components of the game machine module 600 and
the game machine 200. Regulatory requirements may require that
gaming devices employ mechanisms to verify that game components are
authentic and have not been corrupted or tampered with. The client
diagnostic module 650 may perform a diagnostic test to verify and
authenticate each component of the game machine module 600.
[0083] The client communication manager 660 controls the
communication from the game machine 200 to the communications
network. In one embodiment, the client communication manager 660
encrypts and decrypts communications to and from the communications
network.
[0084] The client administrative console module 670 controls the
function and display of the administrative console to the player or
technician of the game machine 200. The administrative console is
an interface configured to receive input from the technician. The
game client 610 may trigger an administrative mode within the game
machine 200 to display the administrative console.
[0085] The administrative console comprises options for configuring
the game machine 200 and/or the game machine module 600. Further,
the administrative console comprises options for diagnostic
testing, viewing game information, viewing game machine 200
information, or viewing game machine module 600 information.
[0086] The game machine device drivers 680 are used to control and
configure the components of the game machine 200. There may be a
separate game machine device driver 480 for each component
including the bonus display 210, the primary display 220, the
programmable button panel 230, the ticket printer 240, the
bill/ticket acceptor 250, the player loyalty system 260, the coin
tray 270, and the candle 280 (FIG. 2). In one embodiment, one or
more of the game machine device drivers 680 may be configured to
generate reports or events that are received by the game client 610
or the bonus server 110 (FIG. 1).
[0087] For example, the game machine device driver 680 for the
programmable button panel 230 may control the button background
color, button text, button text color, and button value. In another
example, when a button on the programmable button panel 230 is
depressed, the appropriate game machine device driver 680 generates
an event which identifies the button pressed and the button value.
The game machine device driver 680 for the programmable button
panel 230 may reprogram the buttons and button values as a game is
played or when a community bonus round is activated.
[0088] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a bonus server module 700 in
one embodiment of the invention. The bonus server module 700 is
software that is resident on the bonus server 110 (FIG. 1) and
controls the community bonus round. The bonus server module 700
comprises a server module 705, a platform manager 710, a server
tilt engine 715, a server state manager 720, a server communication
manager 725, a synchronization agent 730, a game matrix module 735,
a rules engine 740, a server diagnostic module 745, a server
administration console module 750, and server device drivers
755.
[0089] The server module 705 interacts with the game client 610
(FIG. 6) within the game machine module 600 to control game play
and the community bonus round. In some embodiments, the server
module 705 controls all of the game logic while the game client 610
controls and records player inputs and graphics on the game
machine's primary display device 210 (FIG. 2). In one example, the
server module 705 manages the game state (e.g. number of credits in
the game machine 200), determines outcomes, controls overall game
behavior, and controls the community bonus round. The game client
610 is responsible for processing the game machine 200 input events
(i.e. button press) and displays results (e.g. spinning and
stopping wheels).
[0090] In other embodiments, the game logic is split between the
server module 705 and the game client 610. For example, the server
module 705 may control overall game behavior while the game client
610 determines outcomes. In further embodiments, the game client
610 performs all of the game logic and the server module 705
collects statistics and monitors performance of the game machine
200.
[0091] The server module 705 may control the community bonus round
and game levels. In one example, the server module 705 controls
community bonus round gaming between two or more game machines 200.
For example, the server module 705 may set the condition necessary
for the player of one game machine 200 to trigger a community bonus
round. When that condition is met, the server module 705 determines
which game machines 200 are active on the network, which game
titles are loaded on each active game machine, which of the loaded
games are compatible with the community bonus round, and if the
games are in a state to participate in the community bonus round.
The server module 705 extends invitations to the players which
satisfy all conditions to play within the community bonus round.
The server module 705 initiates a community bonus round with those
which accept the invitation and then controls the community bonus
round logic. It is appreciated that the server module 705 can
simultaneously control game logic of multiple game machines 200 and
community bonus round logic from multiple community bonus
rounds.
[0092] During community bonus round play, the server module 705
returns play results and community bonus round updates to the
participating game machines 200. The outcome of the community bonus
round is also sent to the participating game machines 200. For
example, each game machine receives the player's score or credits
won in the community bonus round which may be displayed on the game
machine's bonus display device 210 (FIG. 2). The process of
community bonus round play is further described herein.
[0093] The server module 705 may also be configured to interact
with other bonus servers 110 or other server modules 705 when
controlling the community bonus round. For example, multiple server
modules 705 may coordinate a community bonus round between many
game machines 200. Each server module 705 may handle a specific
number of game machines 200 thereby allowing the casino to provide
for community bonus round gaming among any number of game machines
200 in any location (e.g. between different floors of the casino or
between different casinos.) It is appreciated that the server
modules. 705 allow for any amount of scaling to control and
coordinate community bonus round game play.
[0094] In another embodiment, the server module 705 controls game
levels. Game levels are similar to console video games where game
play on the game machine 200 progresses from one level to the next.
The determination of the triggering event that controls the
transition from one level to another may be determined by the game
developer. The server module 705 monitors the game machine 200 to
determine if the triggering event is met and then controls the game
logic that instructs the game machine 200 accordingly. It is
appreciated that the server module 705 may control both community
bonus rounds and game levels simultaneously.
[0095] In another example, the server module 705 may also store
each player's top score and highest level achieved. This
information may be stored on the game machine 200, the bonus server
110 (FIG. 1), and/or on the player loyalty card. As a result, the
player may return, input the player loyalty card and resume playing
at a different game machine 200 at the last level attained.
[0096] In further embodiments, the server module 705 is configured
to load and unload games from the game machines 200. For example,
the server module 705 may generate a command to remove or otherwise
delete an existing game from the game machine 200. The server
module 705 then downloads and loads client software, graphics,
video data and sound data to the same game machine 200.
[0097] The platform manager 710, similar to the client manager 620
(FIG. 6) on the game machine 200, controls the software of the
bonus server 110 (FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the platform
manager 710 initiates the server module 705, loads and unloads
games, coordinates the transmission of marketing events to the game
machines 200, monitors maintenance, manages server configuration,
controls the output of audit data, and processes events received
from third-party systems.
[0098] The server tilt engine 715 monitors the operating state of
the bonus server 110 and generates tilts on error conditions in
order to prevent cheating.
[0099] The server state manager 720 monitors the operation of the
bonus server 110. The server state manager 720 is a repository of
the current and past data for data received from one or more of the
game machines 200, the current and past data of the bonus server
110, and may function to maintain the data for the bonus server's
110 hardware and software components. The server state manager 720
also tracks the state of the bonus server 110 including, but not
limited to, bonus server 110 undergoing maintenance, controlling
one community bonus round, controlling multiple community bonus
rounds, or communicating with other bonus servers 110.
[0100] The server communication manager 725 controls the
communications from the bonus server 110 to and from the
communications network. In one embodiment, the server communication
manager 725 controls system authentication, communication channel
termination, and processes asynchronous requests from external
systems for data (e.g. meters, tilts, marketing). The platform
manager 710 may control the server communication manager 725.
[0101] The synchronization agent 730 determines that at least one
bonus server 110 is operating and processing game machine 200
requests. If a failure of the system should occur (e.g. there is no
active bonus server 110 on the network), the synchronization agent
730 transitions all devices on the network to a failover state. For
example, the synchronization agent 730 may send a signal to the
client manager 620 to initiate a shut down of the game machine
200.
[0102] The game matrix module 735 is a data structure that defines
relationships that are determined prior to activation of the gaming
system. For example, the game matrix module 735 contains data that
describes compatibility between games, compatibility of games and
community bonus rounds, game functionality at different game
machine 200 states, game functionality at different regions, and
game licensing restrictions.
[0103] The rules engine 740 is a data structure containing
conditions upon which events are triggered. In one example, the
rules engine 740 may contain every game event that triggers a
community bonus round. In some embodiments, the rules engine 740
also contains contingency conditions as well as events.
[0104] The server diagnostic module 745 provides hardware and
software diagnostic checks of the bonus server 110 and the bonus
server module 700. Regulatory requirements may require that the
bonus server 110 employ mechanisms that verify that server
components are authentic and have not been corrupted or tampered
with. As a result, a diagnostic test is used to verify and
authenticate each component of the bonus server 110 and the bonus
server module 700.
[0105] The server administrative console module 750 controls the
function and display of the administrative console to the player or
technician of the bonus server 110. The server module 705 may
trigger an administrative mode within the bonus server 110 to
display a server administrative console.
[0106] The server administrative console comprises options for
configuring the bonus server 110 and/or the bonus server module
700. Further, the server administrative console comprises options
for server setup, security, game machines 200 settings, tilts,
games, network setup, diagnostic tests, and marketing.
[0107] The server device drivers 755 are used to control and
configure the components of the bonus server 110. There may be a
separate server device driver 755 for each component of the bonus
server 110. The components of the bonus server 110 may comprise a
smart card reader, enclosure sensors, video display, network
interface card, local storage system, I/O interface, and a memory
system.
[0108] The bonus server module 700 and/or the game machine module
600 (FIG. 6) may have a marketing engine and a security module. In
one example, the marketing engine manages the transmission and
coordination of electronic marketing messages. Electronic marketing
material, including advertisements and banners, may displayed by
the game machine 200.
[0109] The security manager may control access to the game machine
200 and/or the bonus server 110. In one example, the security
manager controls access to the client administration console 670
(FIG. 6) or the server administration console 750. In another
example, the security manager may define access rights associated
with different passwords. In other embodiments, the security
manager may limit physical access to the inside of the game machine
200 or the bonus server 110. In one example, the security manager
requires the technician to enter a smart card and input a password
before allowing the technician to perform certain tasks on the game
machine 200 or the bonus server 110.
[0110] The market for slot machines and game machines is
dramatically increasing. As a consequence, casinos may lose players
to an increasing number of competitors. In response, casinos are
increasingly concerned with fostering player loyalty and improving
profitability.
[0111] By allowing game machines 200 to play bonus rounds within a
community, new games may be offered to players. The players within
the community may directly compete with each other, work together,
or experience new forms of entertainment that were previously
unavailable. The casino may utilize community bonus round gaming to
encourage groups, friends, associations, and clubs to game together
or create excitement in a casino to entice other people to
participate in community bonus round gaming. Community bonus round
gaming may also be used by the casino to customize the gaming
experience for different players by tracking their preferences,
identities, associations, scores, and attained levels. In a
marketplace where players are increasingly distracted by the number
of slot machines, community bonus round gaming may be a new
paradigm that refocuses player attention and increases the level of
player service the casino can provide.
[0112] FIG. 8 is an illustration of images depicting an associative
community bonus round game in one embodiment of the invention. An
associative community bonus round (further discussed in FIG. 1
herein) is a community bonus round which allows a second user of a
second game machine 200 (FIG. 2) to join a first user of a first
game machine 200 within an associative bonus round game. The
associative bonus round game is any game wherein the players (e.g.,
the respective users of the participating game machines 200) are
awarded prizes for viewing the associative bonus round game or
merely agreeing to participate. In one example, the first user of
the first game machine 200 and the second user of the second game
machine 200 agree to participate within the community bonus round
game. Subsequently, a community bonus round game is displayed, and
points or credits are awarded to the first user and the second
user.
[0113] The associative bonus round game allows two or more players
of different game machines 200 to play together within a single
game. As a result, friends, members of clubs, or colleagues may be
attracted to game machines 200 that comprise games that can trigger
the associative bonus round. Players are more likely to return to
game machines 200 that offer new opportunities to play together
during each gaming session. In one example, two or more friends
operate separate game machines 200 engaged in normal play. One of
the friends may trigger the community bonus round. Each of the
friends may be asked to join the associative bonus round game.
Subsequently, the friends may view or participate in the
associative bonus round game. Each friend may win different prizes
and watch the associative bonus round game results. The associative
bonus round game results is the play or outcome of the community
bonus round game.
[0114] The associative bonus round changes the normal play and
allows players to engage each other as a surprise. The players may
also be awarded unexpected prizes. The associative bonus round game
can change the normal game play of a game machine 200 allowing an
improved gaming experience. In one example, the associative bonus
round game may be animated and accompanied with lights and
sound.
[0115] Image 800, image 810, and image 820 can be concurrently
displayed on separate game machines 200 (FIG. 2) that participate
within the associative community bonus round. Although three images
are depicted in FIG. 8, there may be any number of images on any
number of game machines 200. In other embodiments, a single game
machine 200 can serially depict image 800, image 810, and image
820. The image 800, image 810, and image 820 can be displayed on
the bonus display 210 (FIG. 2) and/or the primary display 220 (FIG.
2).
[0116] Image 800 depicts a golfer swinging at a golf ball, a
high-level view of a golf hole, and information associated with the
swing (e.g., hole number and yardage.) The image 800 may display
additional information as well to add entertainment or realism. In
some embodiments, the game machine 200 displays a prize within the
image 800. In one example, the game machine 200 displaying the
image 800 awards the user of the game machine 200 one-hundred bonus
credits.
[0117] In some embodiments, the user of the game machine 200 may be
asked to hit a button or otherwise interact with the game machine
200 to command the golfer to swing at the golf ball. After the
golfer hits the ball, the prize may be awarded to the user.
[0118] After the image 800 is displayed and the prize is awarded to
the user of the game machine 200, the game machine 200 may return
to the normal game play. The prize may include, but not limited to,
credits on the game machine 200, points within the associative
community bonus round game, credit on a credit card, a payout,
goods, services, coupons, or additional opportunities to play the
game machine 200. In some embodiments, prize information associated
with prizes awarded during the associative community bonus round
are saved within the player loyalty system.
[0119] Image 810 depicts the golf ball bouncing across a fairway, a
high-level view of the hole, and information associated with the
associative community bonus round. In some embodiments, the game
machine 200 displays an award to the user within the image 810. In
one example, the game machine 200 displaying the image 810 awards
the user twenty bonus credits.
[0120] Image 820 depicts a golf ball rolling into the short grass,
a high-level view of the hole, and information associated with the
associative community bonus round. In some embodiments, the image
820 also depicts an award to the user. In one example, the game
machine 200 displaying the image 820 awards the user fifty bonus
credits.
[0121] Although three images (i.e., image 800, image 810, and image
820) are depicted in FIG. 8, the images may be animated and or
accompanied with sound. In one example, the image 800 may comprise
an animation of a golfer swinging at a golf ball. In addition to
the animation, the sound of a golfer hitting a golf ball may be
played by the game machine 200. Similarly, the image 810 may
comprise an animation of a golf ball hitting a fairway and bouncing
away. Further, the image 820 may comprise an animation of a golf
ball rolling in the short grass or falling into a golf hole. Each
game machine 200 can add the sounds of a golf course or a crowd of
spectators. In alternate embodiments, the image 800, image 810, and
image 820 are fixed.
[0122] The game machines 200 may also depict other images. In one
example, each game machine 200 displays a message to the respective
user that an associative community bonus round game is about to
begin. Each game machine 200 may give the user an opportunity to
"opt-out" of the associative community bonus round game. The game
machines 200 may further display the identity of the users about to
play within the associative community bonus round game as well as a
count down to the beginning of the associative community bonus
round game.
[0123] FIG. 9 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
an associative community bonus round in one embodiment of the
invention. FIG. 9 begins in step 900. In step 910, the first game
machine 200 (FIG. 2) triggers an associative community bonus round.
In one example, the first user of the first game machine 200
initiates normal game play by inputting cash within the first game
machine 200. Upon each play within normal game play, a normal play
game result within the normal game play may qualify for the
associative community bonus round (e.g., a normal play game result
of three "bonus" bars qualifies for the community bonus round.)
[0124] In step 920, the first game machine 200 activates the
associative community bonus round. In some embodiments, the game
machine 200 selects between multiple associative community bonus
round games to activate. In an example, one associative community
bonus round game may feature a golfer while another associative
community bonus round game may feature billiards or any other
event.
[0125] Once the first game machine 200 selects the associative
community bonus round game, the first game machine 200 may select a
level or a progressive associative community bonus round game. In
one example, the first user of the first game machine 200 may
trigger multiple associative community bonus rounds. The first
associative community bonus round game may depict the first hole of
a round of golf. The second associative community bonus round game
triggered by the first game machine 200 may depict a second hole of
golf and so forth. The award associated with each level of the
associative community bonus round game may also increase.
[0126] In step 930, the first game machine 200 selects a second
game machine 200 to join the first game machine in the community
bonus round game. In one example, the first game machine 200
randomly selects the second game machine 200 to include in the
associative community bonus round game. In another example, the
first game machine 200 transmits a query to the second game machine
200 to determine if the second game machine 200 is currently within
normal game play. If the second game machine 200 is currently
within normal game play, then the first game machine transmits an
initiation message to the second game machine 200 in step 940.
[0127] In some embodiments, the first game machine 200 selects the
second game machine 200 based on a player association. The player
association is any association between the first user of the first
game machine 200 and the second user of the second game machine
200. The player loyalty system (further discussed in FIG. 2 herein)
can track and store one or more player associations. In one
example, the first game machine 200 queries the player loyalty
system to identify a game machine 200 operated by a second user
associated with the first user. The first game machine 200 may then
select the other game machine 200 operated by the second user to
join the first game machine in the associative community bonus
round game.
[0128] In some embodiments, the second game machine 200 can receive
the initiation message and trigger the associative community bonus
round. Alternately, the second game machine 200 may merely display
the associative community bonus round game and award points to the
second user without triggering the associative community bonus
round.
[0129] In step 950, the first game machine 200 and the second game
machine 200 display the associative community bonus round game. In
some embodiments, the bonus display 210 (FIG. 2) of the game
machine 200 and the second game machine 200 displays the
associative community bonus round game. In an example, the bonus
display 210 of each game machine 200 notifies the respective users
that the associative community bonus round game has been triggered.
Further information displayed may include the identity of the first
user of the first game machine 200 that triggered the associative
community bonus round, the identity/location of the first game
machine 200, and possible awards for participation. The respective
bonus displays 210 may also provide the users the opportunity to
"opt out" of the associative community bonus round game and/or
display a countdown until the associative community bonus round
game is to begin.
[0130] Optionally, the first user of the first game machine 200 may
be awarded a first prize and the second user of the second game
machine 200 may be awarded a second prize. In various embodiments,
the first prize is more valuable than the second prize because the
first prize is awarded to the first user who initiated the
associative community bonus round. In other embodiments, the second
prize may be more valuable than the first prize. In an example, the
second game machine 200 displays the golf ball falling into a golf
hole. Since the second game machine 200 depicted the "hole in one",
the second prize may be greater than or equal to the first prize.
FIG. 9 ends in step 960.
[0131] Although FIG. 9 is a flowchart comprising two separate game
machines 200, there may be any number of game machines 200 playing
within the associative community bonus round game. For example, the
first game machine 200 may transmit an initiation message to any
number of other game machines 200. The first game machine 200 and
the other game machines 200 may then display the associative
community bonus round game (e.g., the first game machine 200
depicts a golfer hitting a golf ball, other game machines 200
depict the golf ball either flying or bouncing down a fairway, and
the last game machine 200 depicts the golf ball falling into a sand
trap or landing in the green.) A prize may then be awarded for the
respective user of each game machine 200 that depicted the
associative community bonus round game. The valuation of the prizes
may be independent of each other, may be distributed equally, or
may be based on a predetermined calculation.
[0132] FIG. 10 is a flow chart depicting the initiation and play of
an associative community bonus round in another embodiment of the
invention. FIG. 10 begins in step 1000. In step 1010, the game
machine 200 (FIG.2) transmits game information to the bonus server
110 (FIG. 1). In an example, the game machine 200 operates in
normal game play. The game machine 200 transmits the normal game
play results of the normal game play to the bonus server 110 as
they occur. In other embodiments, the game machine 200 transmits
only some of the normal game play results to the bonus server
110.
[0133] The bonus server 110 receives the game information from the
game machine 200 and determines if the associative community bonus
round is triggered in step 1020. In some embodiments, the bonus
server 110 bases the determination on the normal game play results.
In an example, the bonus server 110 determines that a normal game
play result of three cherries triggers the associative community
bonus round. In another example, the bonus server 110 determines
that a combination of normal game play results in series triggers
the associative community bonus round. If the bonus server 110
determines that an associative community bonus round has been
triggered, the bonus server 110 continues to stop 1030, otherwise,
FIG. 10 ends in step 1070.
[0134] In step 1030, the bonus server 110 activates the associative
bonus round. In some embodiments, the bonus server 110 transmits an
activation message to the first game machine 200 to activate the
associative bonus round. In some embodiments, the activation of the
associative bonus round is optional.
[0135] In step 1040, the bonus server 110 selects one or more other
game machines 200 to participate within the associative community
bonus round game. The bonus server 110 may base the selection of
the one or more other game machines 200 on those game machines 200
that are currently operating in the normal game play or to those
operated by users associate to each other within the player loyalty
system.
[0136] In step 1050, the bonus server 110 transmits the initiation
message to the game machine 200 and at least one other selected
game machine 200. In some embodiments, the game machines 200 that
receive the initiation message from the bonus server 110 prepare to
display the associative community bonus round game. In other
embodiments, the game machine 200 that originally transmitted the
triggering game information to the bonus server (e.g., in step
1010) activates the associative community bonus round while the
other game machines 200 prepare to display the associative
community bonus round game. Alternately, all of the game machines
200 that receive the initiation message may activate the
associative community bonus round.
[0137] In step 1060, the game machine 200 and at least one other
selected game machine 200 display the associative community bonus
round game. In one example, the game machine 200 and at least one
other selected game machine 200 display the same images within the
associative community bonus round game. In another example, each
game machine 200 may display a different image or animation.
[0138] In some embodiments, the bonus server 110 transmits the
appropriate image to each game machine 200 participating in the
associative community bonus round game. In one example, the bonus
server 110 processes the game logic of the associative community
bonus round game to determine images for each participating game
machine 200 and transmits the images to the respective game
machines 200. Alternately, the bonus server 110 processes the game
logic of the associative community bonus round game and transmits
instructions for the game machines 200 to generate images.
[0139] In step 1070, the bonus server 110 calculates associative
community bonus round game results and awards prizes to the user of
the game machine 200 and the other users of the other selected game
machines 200. The bonus server 110 can process the game logic of
the associative community bonus round game to award prizes to the
respective users. In an example, the bonus server 110 awards points
to the respective users and transmits the number of points rewarded
to the respective game machines 200. Alternately, the bonus server
110 may transmit a notice of a goods or services. The bonus server
110 may also track and store prize information within the player
loyalty system. Prize information is information associated with
the prize including, but not limited to, type of prize, amount
awarded, value of prize, identity of user receiving the prize, and
the game machine 200 the user was operating when the prize was
awarded. FIG. 10 ends in step 1080.
[0140] Although FIG. 10 discusses the bonus server 1.10 as
processing within the associative community bonus round, the bonus
server 110 may only assist a game machine 200 in the processing and
implementation of the associative community bonus round. In one
example, the first game machine 200 may trigger an associative
community bonus round whereupon the first game machine 200 may
query the bonus server 110 for other game machines 200 that fit
certain requirements. The bonus server 110 may track the status of
each game machine 200 (e.g., actively playing in normal game play
or idle,) the games available on each game machine 200, and the
users through the player loyalty system. The bonus server 110 may
use this information to select one or more other game machines 200
and transmit the selection to the first game machine 200. The first
game machine 200 may then transmit an initiation message to the
selected game machines to display the associative community bonus
round game. The bonus server 110 or the first game machine 200 may
process the associative community bonus round game logic and award
points to each respective user.
[0141] The above-described functions can be comprised of
instructions that are stored on a storage medium. The instructions
can be retrieved and executed by a processor. Some examples of
instructions are software, program code, and firmware. Some
examples of storage medium are memory devices, tape, disks,
integrated circuits, and servers. The instructions are operational
when executed by the processor to direct the processor to operate
in accord with the invention. Those skilled in the art are familiar
with instructions, processor(s), and storage medium.
[0142] In the foregoing specification, the invention is described
with reference to specific embodiments thereof, but those skilled
in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited
thereto. Various features and aspects of the above-described
invention may be used individually or jointly. Further, the
invention can be utilized in any number of environments and
applications beyond those described herein without departing from
the broader spirit and scope of the specification. According, the
specification and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative
rather than restrictive.
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