U.S. patent application number 11/459232 was filed with the patent office on 2007-07-05 for system and method for intelligent casino configuration.
Invention is credited to Christine J. Denlay, John Denlay, Gary Frerking, Scott Olive, Lattamore D. Osburn, Gareth S. Phillips, Kent Reisdorph, Jeffrey S. Topham.
Application Number | 20070155490 11/459232 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37683810 |
Filed Date | 2007-07-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070155490 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Phillips; Gareth S. ; et
al. |
July 5, 2007 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTELLIGENT CASINO CONFIGURATION
Abstract
Certain embodiments provide a system and method for adaptable
control and configuration of a gaming environment. Certain
embodiments provide a gaming environment configuration system
including a plurality of gaming terminals capable of executing
games for play by one or more players and a configuration manager
configured to receive information regarding available games and the
plurality of gaming terminals. The configuration manager generates
one or more configurations for the plurality of gaming terminals.
The configuration manager may be configured to pause
reconfiguration of a gaming terminal based on gaming terminal
status. In an embodiment, the system also includes a certificate
manager for authenticating access to a game for play on a gaming
terminal. Additionally, the system may include a game database
server including a plurality of games for play at one or more of
the plurality of gaming terminals.
Inventors: |
Phillips; Gareth S.;
(Bramhall, Stockport, Manchester, GB) ; Olive; Scott;
(Narrabeen, New South Wales, AU) ; Reisdorph; Kent;
(Henderson, NV) ; Frerking; Gary; (Henderson,
NV) ; Osburn; Lattamore D.; (Las Vegas, NV) ;
Topham; Jeffrey S.; (Las Vegas, NV) ; Denlay;
Christine J.; (Las Vegas, NV) ; Denlay; John;
(Las Vegas, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCANDREWS HELD & MALLOY, LTD
500 WEST MADISON STREET
SUITE 3400
CHICAGO
IL
60661
US
|
Family ID: |
37683810 |
Appl. No.: |
11/459232 |
Filed: |
July 21, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60701731 |
Jul 22, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3232 20130101;
G07F 17/323 20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/029 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming environment configuration system, said system
comprising: a plurality of gaming terminals capable of displaying
games for play by one or more players; a configuration manager
configured to receive information regarding available games, game
configuration and status of said plurality of gaming terminals; and
a device for providing an input to the configuration manager,
wherein said configuration manager generates one or more
reconfiguration environments for said plurality of gaming
terminals, said configuration manager configured to at least pause
application of the reconfiguration environment for game play at a
gaming terminal based on gaming terminal status.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager uses
at least one of historical data and game information to determine
said one or more reconfiguration environments for said plurality of
gaming terminals.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager
suggests said one or more reconfiguration environments to an
operator.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager
implements one of said one or more reconfiguration environments for
said plurality of gaming terminals.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein said configuration manager
automatically implements one of said one or more reconfiguration
environments for said plurality of gaming terminals.
6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a certificate manager
for authenticating access to a game for play on a gaming
terminal.
7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a player tracking
system capable of collecting player information from said plurality
of gaming terminals.
8. The system of claim 1, further comprising an external system
configured to allow a player to at least one of retrieve and input
information relating to at least one of a game and a gaming
terminal.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein said external system comprises a
kiosk.
10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a game database
server including a plurality of games available for play at one or
more of said plurality of gaming terminals.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager
generates said one or more reconfiguration environments using one
or more templates.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said plurality
of gaming terminals is capable of suggesting a game to a
player.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager
configures said plurality of gaming terminals for tournament
play.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager
schedules said one or more reconfiguration environments for
implementation at one or more times.
15. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager
comprises a graphical user interface.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein said configuration manager
modifies a display at a gaming terminal in conjunction with said
reconfiguration environment at the gaming terminal.
17. A method for automatic configuration of a gaming environment,
said method comprising: monitoring gaming activity in a gaming
environment; and automatically adjusting a configuration of said
gaming environment based on at least one of predefined criteria and
play patterns detected from said gaming activity in said gaming
environment.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein said step of automatically
adjusting further comprises using historical data and information
associated with available games to suggest a change in
configuration.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein said step of automatically
adjusting further comprises using layout templates to automatically
adjust configuration of a gaming environment.
20. The method of claim 17, wherein said step of automatically
adjusting further comprises suggesting at least one configuration
to an operator for said gaming environment.
21. The method of claim 17, wherein said step of automatically
adjusting further comprises automatically adjusting a configuration
of said gaming environment according to a schedule.
22. The method of claim 17, further comprising dynamically
allocating games from a pool of available games to a plurality of
gaming terminals in said gaming environment.
23. The method of claim 17, further comprising suggesting a game to
a player at a gaming terminal in said gaming environment based on
at least one of predefined criteria and play patterns.
24. The method of claim 17, further comprising collecting player
information from said plurality of gaming terminals to form a
player profile.
25. The method of claim 17, further comprising authenticating
access to a game for play on a gaming terminal using a database of
certificates.
26. The method of claim 17, further comprising obtaining feedback
regarding at least one of said gaming activity and said gaming
environment.
27. A method for allocating games from a set of games to a
plurality of gaming terminals using a certificate database, wherein
said certificate database includes a certificate for each game in
said set of games and wherein a certificate from said certificate
database is matched to a game selected at a gaming terminal to
allow play of said game by a player in a gaming environment.
28. A computer-readable medium including a set of instructions
capable of execution by a computer, said set of instructions
comprising: a monitoring routine for monitoring gaming activity in
a gaming environment; and a configuration management routine for
automatically adjusting configuration of said gaming environment
based on at least one of predefined criteria and play patterns
detected from said gaming activity in said gaming environment.
29. The set of instructions of claim 28, wherein said at least one
predefined criteria includes information regarding available games
and gaming terminals in said gaming environment.
30. The set of instructions of claim 28, wherein said configuration
management routine generates one or more configurations for a
plurality of gaming terminals in said gaming environment.
31. The set of instructions of claim 28, further comprising a
certificate management module for authenticating access to a game
for play on a gaming terminal using one or more game
certificates.
32. The set of instructions of claim 28, further comprising a
library of configuration templates for use by the configuration
management routine to configure said gaming environment.
33. A method for configuring gaming machine terminals on a floor of
a casino, each terminal configurable in at least one of content,
appearance, denomination and operational mode, said method
comprising: providing a floor controller configured to communicate
with said gaming machine terminals; and directing input to said
controller from at least one of an operator, player, predetermined
routine or dynamic routine, said input reconfiguring at least one
terminal in response to said input.
34. The method of claim 33, further comprising group mapping a
location of gaming terminals to the controller, wherein said
controller is adapted to reconfigure available game play at
terminals in groups.
35. The method of claim 33, further comprising determining a
performance criterion for at least some of said terminals, using
said criterion to determining a reconfiguration routine and
implementing said routine at said controller to reconfigure at
least a plurality of said terminals.
36. The method of claim 35, further comprising determining said
performance criteria in relation to gaming content and implementing
a reconfiguration routine to reconfigure at least one terminal to
include content to correspond to that of terminals obtaining a
determined performance criterion.
37. The method of claim 33, further comprising pausing
reconfiguration of at least one terminal based upon predetermined
pause events.
38. The method of claim 37, further comprising pausing
reconfiguration based upon a pause event selected from the group
consisting of (a) ongoing play of the terminal by a player or (b)
the terminal to be reconfigured being temporarily out of service or
(c) the terminal to be reconfigured being in a tilt condition.
39. The method of claim 37, further comprising initiating the
reconfiguration upon termination of the pause event.
40. The method of claim 39, further comprising pausing the
reconfiguration of a terminal based upon ongoing play at the
terminal by a player and reconfiguring the terminal after
discontinuance of play or the terminal after a designated time
delay.
41. The method of claim 33, further comprising providing a display
representing the floor of the casino and the arrangement of said
terminals and for each of a plurality of reconfigurable terminals
an icon in the display representing at least the content presently
on said terminal.
42. The method of claim 41, further comprising, for at least each
reconfigurable terminal, information representing denomination.
43. The method of claim 41, further comprising entering a prompt at
any selected icon and in response thereto displaying at a display
details of the terminal's present configuration.
44. The method of claim 41, further comprising prompting a selected
icon and entering a reconfiguration command to effectuate
reconfiguration of said terminal.
45. The method of claim 44, further comprising prompting at any
selected icon and at a content menu selection to effect
reconfiguration of the terminal.
46. A system for reconfiguring configurable gaming terminals on a
casino floor comprising: a processor; a communication network
providing communication between the processor and each terminal; a
store of reconfiguration data to, when received by at least one of
the processor or terminal, reconfigure the terminal by content,
appearance, denomination or operational mode; an input device to
input a reconfiguration command to said processor in response to at
least one of (1) player input, (2) operator input, (3) a
predetermined routine and (4) a dynamically determined routine,
said processor adapted to access said store and reconfigure at
least one terminal in response to said command.
47. The system of claim 46, wherein said processor is configured to
receive signals from said terminals corresponding to at least a
determined operating condition defining a pause event and to
withhold reconfiguration of said at least one terminal in response
to a pause event.
48. The system of claim 47, wherein said processor is configured to
receive signals from said terminals corresponding to a selected
from the group consisting of (a) ongoing play of the terminal by a
player or (b) the terminal to be reconfigured being temporarily out
of service or (c) a tilt condition.
49. The system of claim 47, wherein said processor is configured to
reconfigure at least one terminal in response to said command upon
receipt of a signal from said terminal corresponding to termination
of said pause event .
50. The system of claim 46, further comprising a display, said
processor configured to control the display to display a map
corresponding to each of said configurable gaming terminals and
data representing at least the present content configuration.
51. The system of claim 50, wherein said processor is configured to
display for each configurable gaming terminal an icon representing
at least the present content configuration.
52. The system of claim 51, further comprising an operator input
device to input data into said processor, said processor configured
to display an available menu of at least a plurality of contents
and to reconfigure at least one terminal in response to data from
said input device selecting a terminal and selecting a content from
said menu.
53. A graphical user interface system allowing an operator to
configure a gaming environment, said system comprising: a map
representing a layout of a gaming floor in the gaming environment;
a game library including games available for play on a gaming
terminal on the gaming floor; and a configuration control capable
of allowing the operator to provide a game from the game library to
at least one gaming terminal on the gaming floor.
54. The system of claim 53, further comprising a layout editor
enabling the operator to edit a layout of the gaming floor
displayed on the map.
55. The system of claim 53, further comprising a profile manager
for creating a gaming floor configuration and saving the
configuration in a profile.
56. The system of claim 53, further comprising a tournament manager
for configuring tournament play with gaming terminals on the gaming
floor.
57. The system of claim 53, wherein the configuration control
allows the operator to change information displayed on at least one
gaming terminal display on the gaming floor.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application relates to, and claims priority
from, U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/701,731, filed on Jul.
22, 2005, entitled "System and Method for Intelligent Casino
Configuration," which is herein incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to casino configuration and
management, and more particularly relates to a system and method
for dynamic or predetermined casino configuration and
management.
[0003] Gaming machines, such as slot machines, fruit machines, or
poker machines, have in recent years become one of the more
popular, exciting, and sophisticated wagering activities available
at casinos and other gambling locations. At the same time, gaming
machines have also become a source of greater revenue for gaming
establishments. Thus, competition between manufacturers of gaming
machines has intensified as competitors vie for business from
gaming establishments.
[0004] A large gaming casino typically employs thousands of gaming
machines that can be operated simultaneously. A gaming system
providing entertaining and enticing features for players would be
highly desirable to attract both new and returning players to a
gaming establishment. Additionally, a gaming system that allows
customization and dynamic or predetermined modification by an
operator would be highly desirable to provide new features to
customers. Current gaming machines are difficult to reconfigure and
offer the same game to multiple users at multiple gaming
establishments. Certain games may become old or unattractive to
players and need updating or replacing. Thus, an improved system
and method for reconfiguring gaming machines would be highly
desirable.
[0005] Additionally, manual reconfiguration of a gaming machine by
a human operator raises concerns regarding security of data and
integrity of a game on the gaming machine. That is, gaming
establishments and legal authorities place high priority on the
integrity of a game, such as a slot or poker game. Thus, there is a
need for a configurable system that does not disturb sensitive game
or prize data and reduces possibility for human error in gaming
configuration. Manual configuration may not be effective to match
the desires of players for game content, denomination ($0.01,
$0.25, $0.50, $1.00, $5.00 for example) appearance or operational
mode. Operational mode may include configuring terminals for
tournament play (e.g., free play by the participants of the
tournament using the same starting stake of free credits),
promotional games, test games or the like. To acquire and manually
change out or convert to new games with a conversion kit (signage,
processor boards, button pads, etc.) requires significant time and
manpower. Thus such systems are not well suited to dynamically
change to optimize the business operation of the casino, e.g.
profits from the floor in response to the market and player
demands.
[0006] Currently, casino floors include a wide variety of
electronic gaming machines, such as video slot machines, poker
machines, reel slot machines and other gaming machines. In order to
adapt to changing situations and improve slot play, slot managers
adjust the location and configuration of these gaming machines.
Physical placement of games on the casino floor as well as
manipulation of working parameters of the games on the casino floor
is an important aspect of casino management.
[0007] Determining an "ideal mix" of game types, locations,
denominations, and other parameters is widely regarded as an art or
inexact science. A mix or configuration of games may vary from
venue to venue, day to day, and/or hour to hour, for example. Thus,
an ability to rapidly adjust a casino floor configuration (in whole
or in part) would be highly desirable. A system that monitors
configuration changes as well as player response to configuration
changes would be highly desirable. Additionally, a system that may
automatically change floor configuration on a periodic basis based
on predefined parameters or detected play patterns on the gaming
floor would be highly desirable. The historical data obtained
versus various configurations would be useful to help operators
make decisions as to gaming floor configurations.
[0008] It has been proposed that gaming systems include selecting
games from a large variety of game content stored on a centralized
game server for subsequent download and play on a local terminal.
Regulatory approval and issues of security have slowed what is
perceived to an inevitable shift to downloadable games at a casino.
Given current technology, it is now possible to virtually move
games around the casino floor or change parameters within the games
on the game floor from a central location without physically
accessing the games. Downloadable gaming systems also give a player
the freedom to choose the game played on a given gaming machine.
Selecting a desired game from a list of hundreds of available games
may be a time-consuming task, however, and assisting the player in
a choice of game through a number of metrics based on player
preferences or other factors would be highly desirable. As stated
above, current downloadable gaming systems also present challenges
to regulatory officials. For example, game integrity and/or game
license monitoring may be difficult for regulatory officials and
gaming operators to monitor. Providing a system and method through
which regulators may monitor and/or control game content would be
highly desirable.
[0009] Thus, there is a need for a system and method that allows
adaptable control and configuration of a gaming environment. There
is a need for a system which provides for the operator or player to
reconfigure one or more gaming terminals and for a system which
provides the operator with the opportunity and flexibility to
optimize the casino floor based upon various parameters. There is a
need for a system and method where reconfiguration commands may be
paused or interrupted in the event certain conditions exist. There
is a need for a system and method which provides for easy
designation and reconfiguration of any terminal on the casino
floor.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Certain embodiments provide a system and method for
adaptable control and configuration of a gaming environment.
Certain embodiments provide a gaming environment configuration
system including a plurality of gaming machines capable of
executing game content for play by one or more players and a
configuration manager configured to receive information regarding
available games and the plurality of gaming machines. The
configuration manager generates one or more configurations for the
plurality of gaming machines. Configuration (or reconfiguration
when a terminal is already configured) may be of game content,
terminal appearance, denomination or operational mode. Content
relates to the game type, theme, controls and/or secondary games,
for example, to be implemented at the terminal for play by the
customer. Appearance may include color (terminal, panels of the
terminal, displays, etc.), background, borders, adding or
subtracting displays, shape and broadly includes sound
characteristics as well. Denomination relates to the denomination
for the game, e.g. unit wager value/value of credits wagered.
Operational mode relates to whether the terminal is configured for
regular game play, tournament play, free play, promotional play or
the like or is placed in a disabled mode such as, for example,
maintenance, a tilt condition, regulatory request or order or the
like.
[0011] In an embodiment, historical data may be used to determine
one or more configurations for the plurality of gaming machines.
The configuration manager program may suggest the one or more
configurations to an operator according to established parameters
and obtained data, for example. The configuration manager may
implement one or more configurations for the plurality of gaming
machines. In an embodiment, the configuration manager automatically
implements one of the configurations for the plurality of gaming
machines. The configuration manager may generate one or more
configurations using one or more templates, for example. In an
embodiment, one or more of the gaming machines may be reconfigured
to offer groups of selectable games to players.
[0012] In an embodiment, the system also includes a certificate
manager for authenticating access to a game for play on a gaming
terminal. The system may also include a player tracking system
capable of collecting player information from the plurality of
gaming terminals. In an embodiment, the system further includes an
external system, such as a kiosk, configured to allow a player to
at least one of retrieve and input information relating to at least
one of a game and a gaming terminal, e.g., location on the casino
floor. Additionally, the system may include a game database server
including a plurality or store of games for play at one or more of
the plurality of gaming terminals.
[0013] Certain embodiments include a method for automatic
configuration of a gaming environment including monitoring gaming
activity in a gaming environment, and automatically adjusting a
configuration of the gaming environment based on at least one of
predefined criteria, e.g., day of the week, time of the year,
special events or promotions, and play patterns detected from the
gaming activity in the gaming environment. In an embodiment,
historical data and information associated with available games may
be used to suggest a change in configuration. In an embodiment,
layout templates may be used to automatically adjust configuration
of a gaming environment. At least one configuration may be
suggested to an operator for the gaming environment.
[0014] Certain embodiments of the method may also include
dynamically allocating games from a pool of available games to a
plurality of gaming terminals in the gaming environment. In an
embodiment, a game may be suggested to a player at a gaming
terminal in the gaming environment based on at least one of
predefined criteria and play patterns. Player information may be
collected from the plurality of gaming terminals to form a player
profile, for example. Access to a game may be authenticated for
play on a gaming terminal using a database of certificates, for
example. Feedback may be obtained regarding gaming activity and/or
gaming environment, for example.
[0015] Certain embodiments include a method for allocating games
from a set of games to a plurality of gaming terminals using a
certificate database. The certificate database includes a
certificate for each game in the set of games, and a certificate
from the certificate database is matched to a game selected at a
gaming terminal to allow play of the game by a player in a gaming
environment.
[0016] Certain embodiments include a computer-readable medium
including a set of instructions capable of execution by a computer.
The set of instructions includes a monitoring routine for
monitoring gaming activity in a gaming environment, and a
configuration management routine for automatically adjusting
configuration of the gaming environment based on at least one of
predefined criteria and play patterns detected from the gaming
activity in the gaming environment. At least one predefined
criteria may include information regarding available games and
gaming terminals in the gaming environment, for example. The
configuration management routine may generate one or more
configurations for a plurality of gaming terminals in the gaming
environment, for example. In an embodiment, the set of instructions
further includes a certificate management module for authenticating
access to a game for play on a gaming terminal using one or more
game certificates. The set of instructions may also include a
library of configuration templates for use by the configuration
management routine to configure the gaming environment.
[0017] In one embodiment, a configurator or processor includes a
display of a casino floor showing relative positions of games on
the casino floor. At each game there may be displayed an icon,
letter, number or other shorthand designator to indicate at a
glance a configuration presently resident on the gaming terminal,
e.g. game content, denomination. The operator may be able to
effectuate reconfiguration by accessing the display and, using a
touch screen, mouse, keypad or other data input device, and
reconfiguring the terminals by moving icons on the display. For
example, if a terminal on the floor shows by icon that it has game
(or group or bank of games) X resident on it and the operator wants
to change the game (games) to Y, the operator need only "click" on
game Y in a game store window and then click on the terminal at
which time the processor will remove game X and download game Y to
the terminal. In this fashion the operator can easily reconfigure
any one or groups of games on the casino floor.
[0018] In further embodiments the processor maintains a record
relating to each download including, for example, terminal, game
type, time of day, and the like for at least security purposes.
[0019] Certain embodiments provide a graphical user interface (GUI)
system allowing an operator to configure a gaming environment. The
system includes a map representing a layout of a gaming floor in
the gaming environment, a game library including games available
for download to a gaming terminal on the gaming floor, and a
configuration control capable of allowing the operator to download
a game from the game library to at least one gaming terminal on the
gaming floor. In an embodiment, the configuration control allows
the operator to change information displayed on at least one gaming
terminal display on the gaming floor.
[0020] The system may also include a layout editor enabling the
operator to edit a layout of the gaming floor displayed on the map.
Additionally, the system may include a profile manager for creating
a gaming floor configuration and saving the configuration in a
profile. Furthermore, the system may include a tournament manager
for configuring tournament play with gaming terminals on the gaming
floor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a casino network system used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram for a method for
configuration of a gaming environment used in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a graphical user interface (GUI) capable
of configuring and managing a gaming floor in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 4 depicts an example of a profile management interface
used in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 5 shows a profile status list used in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 6 depicts a configuration options interface used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 7 illustrates a preferences interface used to configure
GUI user preferences in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0028] FIG. 8 illustrates a credit management interface used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a coupon redemption
interface used in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 10 depicts a tournament setup interface used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 11 illustrates a tournament scheduling interface used
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 12 shows a tournament setup options interface used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 13 shows a tournament machine assignment interface used
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 14 shows a tournament summary used in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 15 shows an example of a graph charting gaming machine
performance used in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 16 illustrates a new game query interface used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] Referring to FIG. 1, a casino network system 100 includes a
plurality of gaming terminals 110, 120, and 130 interconnected
through network 140 to a slot accounting and/or player tracking
system 150 (hereinafter collectively referring to as a player
tracking system), slot floor configuration manager 160 and
certificate manager 170. It should be understood that, while the
present description refers to gaming terminals as "slot machines",
that gaming tables such as Blackjack, Pai Gow, Baccarat,
multi-terminal gaming machines such as multi-terminal roulette, Sik
Bo, Poker, dice games, and others may be subject to reconfiguration
where such tables are so adapted. As an example, a gaming table
layout may be embodied as a video display, and reconfiguration may
be of a type to reconfigure the video layout to change the game to
be played at the table, bonus features, minimum and maximum bets
and the like. Thus gaming terminal as used herein includes gaming
tables as well. It should also be understood that configuration or
reconfiguration of a gaming terminal includes both an initial
configuration and subsequent reconfiguration of the gaming terminal
to download and/or otherwise provide (e.g., server-based) a game
and/or other functionality to a player at the terminal.
[0038] Player tracking system 150 and slot floor configuration
manager 160 are connected to database server 180 via a
communication link 185, which may be integrated with or separate
from the network 140. Slot floor configuration manager 160 and
certificate manager 170 are connected to game database server 190
via a communication link 195 which may be integrated with or
separate from network 140. In an embodiment, the casino network
system 100 may be implemented in another gaming environment, such
as a hotel, restaurant, theater, store, airport or other venue
having one or more gaming systems.
[0039] System 100 also includes a system workstation 200, connected
to network 140. In addition, one or more self-service kiosks 210,
and/or one or more external systems 220 may be connected to network
140. External system 220 is connected to network 140 through
firewall 225, and may include a player workstation in a hotel room
or other location external to the casino, for example. One or more
kiosks 210 may be used to facilitate operations such as slot ticket
redemption, player card point redemption, change and/or currency
dispensation, promotion redemption and/or issuance, advertising,
information, event and/or dining reservations and/or ticketing,
etc. For example, one or more kiosks 210 and/or external systems
220 may used to purchase and/or view sports scores, news, game
announcements, weather, flight information, show times, specials,
reward tickets, prize tickets, coupons, airline or show tickets,
reservation confirmation, or other information, for example.
Additionally a player may be able to locate his or her favorite
games on the casino floor, restaurants or other facilities and/or
services at a kiosk 210.
[0040] Gaming terminals 110, 120, and 130 include communications
interfaces (CI) 115, 125, and 135 respectively, which communicate
with network 140. In other embodiments, CI 115, 125, and 135 may
instead communicate with player tracking system 150 via other
system and/or method, such as a serial communications protocol. In
an embodiment, CI 115, 125, and 135 may be integrated into a game
controller for gaming terminals 110, 120, and 130. Certain
embodiments of a CI are described in more detail below.
[0041] Player tracking system 150 collects data from CI 115, 125,
and 135 for purposes of slot accounting, monitoring and security,
and player tracking as is well known in the art. Player tracking
system 150 processes and stores said data in database 180.
Additional information regarding slot accounting and player
tracking is described in more detail below.
[0042] Slot floor configuration manager 160 receives information
relevant to slot floor configuration management from player
tracking system 150 and database 180. For example, slot floor
configuration manager 160 may include an interface to player
tracking system 150 to facilitate transfer of information between
manager 160 and tracking system 150. In an embodiment, slot floor
configuration manager 160 receives information from a database
separate from database 180 used by player tracking system 150. In
an embodiment, slot floor configuration manager 160 may receive
floor configuration information independent of player tracking
system 150. Slot floor configuration manager 160 also may receive
information directly from gaming terminals 110, 120, 130. Gaming
terminals 110, 120, 130 may be connected to slot floor
configuration manager 160 and/or player tracking system 150 via
separate networks or a common network, such as an Ethernet.
[0043] Slot floor configuration manager 160 processes information
to determine and/or suggest configurations of gaming terminals on a
gaming floor, such as a casino floor. Slot manager 160 reviews,
adjusts, and approves suggested floor configurations via system
workstation 200. In an embodiment, players may be provided with an
ability to select desired games to be played or downloaded to a
terminal via CI 115, 125, and 135 and/or gaming terminal 110, 120,
and 130. Players may also review game information or update their
profiles via kiosk 210 or external system 220, for example.
[0044] System 100 may also include external system 230, which is
connected to certificate manager 170 via a dedicated, secure,
communications link via firewall 235, for example. External system
230 may be a workstation in a gaming regulator's office, for
example. In one embodiment, gaming regulators may monitor and
manage game certificates on certificate manager 170 via external
system 230. Unless required by a particular jurisdiction, the
certificate manager 170 and associated equipment and functions may
not be required.
[0045] Certificate manager 170 is configured to allow access to
games to be controlled for a given gaming environment, such as
governmental regulators or gaming operators acting in compliance
with gaming regulations. The certificate manager 170 may work with
a certificate database to control access to the game(s) being
played. For example, the certificate database may include encoded
and encrypted digital certificates or other authentication/license
indicators that tie to games in the game database on a one-to-one
basis. In an embodiment, due to the nature of the games and gaming
terminals, a game may not be played unless a valid certificate for
that game exists in the certificate database. In an embodiment, a
certificate is also mated to a venue, such as a casino or other
gaming environment, so that a game may not be played at another
venue even if the game and certificate were electronically
duplicated and moved to another venue.
[0046] In an embodiment, a certificate may also be mated to a
binary image of a game file, such that a game may not be played if
the binary image is modified. If a modification or update of a game
image is a result of an authorized action, a new certificate may be
issued by a regulator before the game may be played. Games lacking
a valid certificate may be handled differently in a player's game
catalog interface. In an embodiment, games lacking a valid
certificate may be excluded from a player selection interface
altogether. In an alternate embodiment, games lacking a valid
certificate may be excluded from certain portions of a player
catalog and/or visibly marked with an appropriate descriptive
phrase such as "Pending approval for play in this casino".
[0047] In an embodiment, certificates may be implemented such that
the number of concurrently playing games of a given title may be
limited by regulators or a game provider, for example. In an
embodiment, certificates may be implemented such that a number of
concurrently playing games from a given game provider is similarly
limited. In an embodiment, the certificate database may be
implemented to facilitate a total number of games being
concurrently played at a given venue, if regulations enforce such a
limit, for example.
[0048] In an embodiment, regulators have access to the certificate
database, either through an interface local to a gaming environment
or through a remote interface such as a web-based interface through
a dedicated and encrypted network link between the venue and the
regulator. Through this interface, the regulator may manage the
certificate database to approve games for play or similarly revoke
approval of games, for example.
[0049] In an embodiment, the casino floor configuration system 100
uses historical data as well as stored information regarding
available games to determine and suggest, or in certain instances
command, available game configuration(s) or mix for the casino
floor or other gaming environment. Such a mix may include, for
example, game location(s), game denomination(s), game content, game
appearance, terminal appearance, terminal operational mode and/or
additional parameter(s) such as volatility, return to player (RTP),
etc. In an embodiment, the system 100 may change a gaming
environment floor configuration automatically. For example, rules,
preferences, calendar-based schedules, and/or historical data may
be used by system 100 to automatically reconfigure a gaming
environment. As a few examples, the denominations of games may be
changed to higher denominations for periods such as holidays and
weekends where tourists or conventioneers are expected and lower
denominations during the week for local players. Where a large
influx of tourists is expected, game play may be converted from,
for example, video Poker games to video slot machine games which
may be more popular with the expected demographics of the patrons.
Historical data may also be used to control or suggest a
configuration regime. Prior successful configurations may be
accessed and duplicated and even tied to calendar events, e.g.
reconfigure for the Christmas Holiday the same as last Christmas.
Where players are entitled to select configurations, a historical
record may be maintained with respect to player requested
configurations and the same may be analyzed to set up
configurations for the casino floor.
[0050] As used herein, reconfiguration refers to an initial
configuration, installation or access to a gaming terminal and/or
gaming and other software running on or via the gaming terminal.
Additionally, reconfiguration encompasses both downloading games
and/or other software to a gaming terminal and making games and/or
other software available at the gaming terminal (e.g., sever-based
gaming).
[0051] In an embodiment, the slot floor configuration manager 160
may include a workstation with an intuitive and easy-to-use
interface, such as a visual representation of the casino floor with
installed gaming terminals 110, 120, 130. For example, the
workstation includes a display. The manager 160 controls the
display to display the position of terminals on a casino floor and
to display with each terminal (or group or banks of terminals) data
or a visual reference corresponding to at least content then
resident on each terminal. For example, each terminal may be shown
in association with at least one of a number, letter, label, icon
and/or other indicator. As a specific example, each gaming terminal
has associated therewith a graphic icon representing game content
such as a representation of a unique game symbol, trademark, or
other pictorial so an operator may determine at a glance a resident
configuration of each terminal. Using a data input device such as a
mouse, keyboard, remote control or touch screen, the operator may
enter a prompt at a selected icon whereupon the processor is
controlled to display further details such as denomination,
performance, maintenance history, game history, or the like. In
this fashion, individual terminals or whole banks of terminals may
be reconfigured in a "drag and drop" mailer. The gaming terminals
110, 120, 130 may be selected individually and/or in groups for
configuration changes, for example. In an embodiment, an operator
and/or system may view and/or change gaming terminal 110, 120, 130
information and/or configuration using the configuration manager
interface. Using the floor configuration manager 160, an operator
may change a game available for play at a gaming terminal 110, 120,
130 and also information display via a primary and/or additional
display at gaming terminal 110, 120, 130.
[0052] In an embodiment, the system 100 may be configured to lock
down portions of a gaming environment. For example, an area of a
casino floor may be designated as the "video poker" area. In the
video poker area, operators may want to allow any video poker game
to be played or downloaded while disallowing downloading of other
types of games in this area, for example.
[0053] In another embodiment, gaming terminals in a gaming
environment may be configured for a field trial. A field trial
typically runs for 30 days, for example. Games on field trial are
made available for play during the field trial and, the slot
configuration manager 160 helps ensure that field trial game(s) are
available on a specific set of terminals.
[0054] One or more terminals or banks of terminals may be
configured for tournament play or other special event, for example.
When in a tournament play configuration, play may be free to
players. Play may be based upon free and/or prepaid/preset credits
being loaded in the game, e.g. 1000 credits, or the terminals may
be configured to be enabled for a period of time for free play. In
an embodiment, players pay an initial fee to "buy in" to a
tournament. Participating gaming terminals are then placed in a
"tournament mode". In an embodiment, terminals in tournament mode
are temporarily removed from slot accounting so that meters accrued
during tournament play are not included in standard slot
accounting. In an embodiment, participating terminals are
initialized to play continuously for "free" during the allotted
tournament time period. Alternatively, a set number of credits may
be allocated to a participating terminal for tournament play. At
the end of the period, the net win of each terminal is used to
measure the contestants' performance and top winners are awarded a
prize. During tournament play, reconfiguration of the terminals
involved may be paused. Additionally, one or more displays on
participating gaming terminals may display information and/or
graphics related to tournament play. An example of tournament play
is described in further detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,648, which is
herein incorporated by reference.
[0055] In an embodiment, a secondary screen (such as a secondary
screen in a top box of an electronic gaming machine) may be used
with a gaming terminal to display tournament information, such as
tournament standings and statistics. The tournament statistics
screen may display information such as tournament leaders and point
standings, time remaining in the tournament, player standing with
respect to the leaders (such as place in the tournament, points,
and/or a number of points separating the player from the closest
competition), and/or other information. At the conclusion of the
tournament, the secondary display shows tournament winners,
prize(s) won, and/or other information, for example.
[0056] In an embodiment, a screen displaying game identification
information and/or graphics may be modified to display tournament
identification information and/or graphics. In an embodiment, the
system 100 may be used for additional operational modes including
taking a terminal out of service for maintenance, configuration
and/or in case of a tilt condition (malfunction), for example.
[0057] In an embodiment, a gaming terminal may include one or more
configurable buttons, such as NKK.TM. Smartswitches.TM.,
touchscreen button deck, or configurable button panel. The face of
each button may include an enabling display of the button function.
Colors may vary as well, for example. The buttons may be programmed
by the slot configuration manager 160, workstation 200, and/or
automatically based on game information/configuration, for example.
For example, as a game is selected, reconfigured and/or replaced at
a gaming terminal 110, 120, 130, the buttons may be programmed,
displayed or enabled to accommodate functionality of the game.
[0058] Games may be defined by a "slot type," for example.
Parameters that make up a slot type may include game title,
denomination, return to player, style of game and/or bonus
feature(s), for example. A particular game may be available in
denominations from 5 cents to $100, for example. In an embodiment,
a full range of denominations may not be applicable to all areas of
a casino floor. For example, higher denomination games may only be
available in a high limit area. One slot type for a particular
title may be created for denominations from $5 to $100 for use in
high limit gaming, and another slot type may be created for
denominations of 5 cents to 25 cents for other parts of a floor.
The system 100 may select from the available slot types for a
particular title when making recommendations to the slot manager.
In an alternative embodiment, a predetermined protocol may be
established for certain areas of the casino floor such as, for
example, a High Limit area. In this instance, if an operator or
download routine attempts to download or make available a 5 cent
game into the High Limit area, the download may be paused and an
error message generated to remind the operator that the game is
inappropriate for the terminal in the High Limit area. Thus the
operator may make a conscious decision to override the high limit
only protocol for the terminal. Alternatively, the 5 cent download
or server request may be cancelled or overridden.
[0059] The system 100 may function with the player tracking system
150 to determine player profiles. The system 100 may use player
profile information to suggest, offer, include and/or exclude
players from certain games or parameters, for example. Player
profile information may be used by the slot configuration manager
160 to configure or suggest a configuration or server based game
for a gaming terminal 110, 120, 130 at which a particular player is
playing, for example. Additionally, the system 100 may suggest
games to a player based on factors such as historical data, game
rating, game availability, player preference, player ranking,
player access, player credit, newest games, most popular games
based on statistical tracking of game play, most popular games
based on customer ratings and reviews, events in the vicinity of
the gaming terminal, etc. For example, the system 100 may offer
selected games to a player which other players have like based upon
the present game.
[0060] In an embodiment, the system 100 provides players with an
ability to select games from a list extracted from an entire suite
of games available to the system such that the extracted list of
games is based upon games preferred by a player including other
games of similar character to games appealing to that player based
on player history. In an embodiment, a game may include different
outcomes according to choices made by a player at various points
during play of the game.
[0061] In an embodiment, the system 100 provides operators with an
ability to select games to be available for play on one or more
gaming terminals. Games may be available to an operator based on
authorization, gaming jurisdiction, casino affiliation, account
information, available credit, etc. An operator may purchase or
activate games for a certain amount of money or credits or via
coupon from a game provider, for example. For example, a casino
slot floor operator may download or make available games for gaming
terminals on the casino floor using available credits in his or her
account. If an operator or gaming environment's account balance is
low or has been exceeded, an operator may add credits to an
account. For example, an operator may access a web site or other
interface or click a button or tab to "buy" additional credits to
acquire the rights/ability for the game/feature.
[0062] In an embodiment, the system 100 may include a number of
templates describing suggested floor layouts for a given venue
based on factors well known in the industry. Templates in whole or
part may be saved to the live casino floor as desired. In an
embodiment, templates may be loaded, saved, and/or modified by the
slot floor configuration manager 160, for example.
[0063] In an embodiment, the system 100 includes an offline
experimental or "what if" mode that allows casino personnel to
experiment with various floor configurations. For example, the
system 100 may show a predicted effect of configuration changes on
a virtual floor. Virtual floor layouts may then be saved and/or
translated to an actual floor configuration as desired.
[0064] In an embodiment, the system 100 includes an ability to
reconfigure a floor configuration in response to pre-programmed
events, such as time of day, day of week (or month), certain events
occurring in or around the venue, and the like. For example, prior
to a highly anticipated event, such as a Monday Night Football game
or sports tournament, electronic gaming terminals outside a bar or
other venue hosting a special event related to the game may be
shifted to favor sports-minded games.
[0065] In an embodiment, a player uses credits to download, select,
and/or play a game (on EGM credit meter, player account, and/or
inserted at an EGM 110, 120, 130, for example). In an embodiment,
the system 100 allows one or more players to play multiple games on
one terminal simultaneously (dividing a game screen into four
windows, for example, with four games playing simultaneously).
[0066] In an embodiment, a plurality of games may be stored locally
on a gaming terminal. Contents of a gaming terminal may be
configured based on a game selected on the terminal by a player,
rather than forcing a download or server based game of a game onto
the terminal to change the configuration. Game content may be
updated on a periodic basis via a network and/or loaded locally at
the terminal, for example.
[0067] Certain embodiments provide a plurality of features to
players. For example, the system 100 may allow a player to search
or browse in real time for a game (by title, genre, popularity,
highest jackpot, etc). While browsing, filters may be employed by
the player to narrow the field being browsed, for example. The
system 100 may provide a catalogue to browse games (by
manufacturer, etc). The system 100 may make recommendations based
on player profiles (e.g., "Players who like this game also liked
this game"). The system 100 may also suggest games based on a
denomination most played by a player, etc. The system 100 may
suggest most popular games (perhaps at an extra charge or tiered
entry), new releases, etc. Players may also search for and download
or play progressive jackpot games which currently have the highest
jackpot. In this fashion, the downloaded or server-based games may
add to the progressive pool causing it to grow even faster. In an
embodiment, players may be allowed to access features using a
player card and/or account. A player may be granted access to
certain features based on a number of player loyalty points, for
example.
[0068] Certain embodiments allow a player to "vote" or provide
feedback (ratings, etc.) for a game at a gaming terminal 110, 120,
130, kiosk, or external system, for example. In addition, certain
embodiments provide downloadable help files or reference materials
that discuss features of a given game. Certain embodiments provide
a free evaluation mode to allow players to evaluate games at no
charge but with no payout for a win. The evaluation mode may be
optional for a venue and may also result in awarding coupons,
discounts, reward points, or other compensation to participating
players, for example.
[0069] The above features, as appropriate, may also be made
available through an interface such as a kiosk 210 on the casino
floor or web-based interface external to the casino. Players may be
able to access applicable information while away from the casino
floor (for example, in a hotel room or home). The interface allows
a player to learn about new games available at the casino or read
peer reviews of games prior to going to the casino, for example.
The player may add interesting games or other feature(s) to his or
her list of "favorites" in a player profile for easy access while
on the casino floor. In an embodiment, if a license or certificate
is available for a desired game, a player may reserve the game at
the kiosk 210 for play at a gaming terminal. Additionally, the
kiosk 210 or other interface device may provide players with a site
map or other casino information. The kiosk or web-based interface
may enable players to find out where games are on the casino floor,
jackpots and the like. For example, the kiosk 210 may provide a map
or list of options to allow a player to locate a particular game or
type of gaming terminal. The kiosk 210 or other interface may also
provide a player with information regarding similar or alternative
products, for example.
[0070] In an embodiment, a player may return to a hotel room, home
or other venue to enter reviews of games played during a gaming
session. The casino or other gaming environment may provide
incentives for entering such reviews, such by adding points to a
player account or rating the reviewers themselves based on quantity
and/or quality of their reviews, for example. In an embodiment, a
player may be limited by the system 100 to only submit reviews for
games that the player has played at the gaming environment.
[0071] In an embodiment, the system 100 may facilitate charging a
premium for certain game titles based on given criteria, such as a
new game, incentive bonus to game provider based on popularity,
exclusive contract, game customized to venue, etc. For example, a
premium or license fee may be charged for popular or new games. In
an embodiment, the system 100 may also facilitate tracking of a
game's performance with respect to performance warrantees offered
by a game provider, for example. The system 100 may also facilitate
favored exposure for certain game titles in game catalogs shown to
players in exchange for a game provider paying a promotional fee or
offering a discount. For example, games or other features may
receive favorable exposure in player catalogs for a fee or
discount.
[0072] In an embodiment, information may be collected with respect
to popularity of games and/or options within the games, for
example. Information gathered may then be used to promote popular
games to general and/or specific audiences.
[0073] FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram for a method 240 for
configuration of a gaming environment used in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. First, at step 242, a gaming
environment floor configuration is reviewed. For example, current
location and configuration of games on the gaming terminals may be
reviewed. Then, at step 244, criteria are evaluated with respect to
the current floor configuration. For example, historical data for a
gaming environment, gaming terminal(s), and/or player may be
evaluated automatically and/or manually. Evaluation criteria may
also include time, special event, game availability, location,
schedule, and/or other data, for example.
[0074] Next, at step 246, a new floor configuration is determined.
That is, a new floor configuration may be determined automatically
and/or manually based at least in part on the criteria and other
data evaluated in step 244. A new floor configuration of available
games may be determined using a template, by selecting game(s) from
an available library, etc. In an embodiment, a configuration
management system suggests a new floor configuration to an operator
based on historical data for the floor and other input/parameters.
At a display, where the current configuration is shown by icons or
other reference indicators or banners in association with the
terminals shown by the display, a suggested reconfiguration may be
shown by a ghost icon, image or banner in association with the
terminals for a period of time in advance of the reconfiguration,
for example. Then, at step 248, the floor configuration is
adjusted. The floor configuration may be adjusted automatically, an
operator may be prompted to adjust the configuration, and/or manual
adjustment by an operator may be facilitated. In an embodiment, a
floor configuration may be selected from one or more templates
based on criteria and/or user input.
[0075] In an embodiment, one or more changes to a floor
configuration may be scheduled in the system 100. For example, an
operator may schedule a new floor configuration to be implemented
at a certain time and/or for a certain time period. Thus, gaming
terminals may be configured with certain games and/or in certain
modes for one time period and with different games and/or in
different modes for another time period. For example, an operator
may schedule a casino to be configured to operate in a tournament
mode beginning at 2:00 am the following day. A casino floor may be
configured with certain games during a weekend and other games
during the week, for example. Certain games may be played on gaming
terminals during the day and others during the night, for example.
Thus, certain embodiments enable advanced configuration and
scheduling of gaming terminals in a gaming establishment.
[0076] It should be noted that when reconfiguration is commanded,
the system 100 is preferably configured to include several override
conditions which pause or prevent the reconfiguration. For example,
where a player is playing a game, reconfiguration of the terminal
may be paused or delayed until play is discontinued for a period of
time, e.g. 10 minutes, to prevent interruption of play. Other
conditions may be a maintenance condition such as where the
terminal is opened for service or there is a malfunction, or play
has been suspended but credits remain or payment of a jackpot is
pending. Also, as stated above, conditions such as designated high
limit areas may prevent the download of certain games to those
locations. Tournament play may delay reconfiguration until the
tournament has ended, for example. The operator may also configure
and input conditions which would block or encourage certain
downloads, e.g. only certain games and the casino entrance to
attract players, a percentage of the floor must remain video Poker,
maintain a certain number of Blackjack tables because of the number
of dealers on shifts and the like. In an embodiment, an operator
may override a configuration that has been suggested for automatic
implementation by the configuration system.
[0077] At step 250, in the embodiments where a player may select
configurations, a configuration (game content, terminal
configuration, operational mode) is selected by a user at a gaming
terminal. In an embodiment, a user may select from a plurality of
games available at the gaming terminal. In another embodiment, a
user may initiate a single game available at the gaming terminal.
In an embodiment, a user may download a game from a database or
collection of games for play at a gaming terminal.
[0078] Then, at step 252, a certificate or other authentication
indicator associated with the game is verified. For example, a
certificate associated with a game at a gaming terminal or other
gaming console may be compared with a certificate database for the
gaming environment to authenticate the game running at the gaming
terminal. In an embodiment, a player may also be authenticated to
verify the player's access and/or authorization to play the game.
For example, certain games may be made accessible to adults and/or
to members of a casino's players club or other group. Certification
may or may not be required depending upon the configuration of the
system 100 and regulatory requirements, for example.
[0079] At step 254, the game is played. During play, the system
100, acting as a slot accounting system, monitors performance of
the game, such as coin-in (amount wagered), jackpots paid (amount
paid out), or maintenance events. The system 100, and more
particularly the player tracking system server 150, tracks player
identification if the player has logging in to be tracked. Next, at
step 256, a player or other user may generate feedback for a game,
gaming terminal, and/or gaming environment. For example, a player
may complete a survey at a gaming terminal, a kiosk, and/or a hotel
room evaluating a game played and/or another aspect of the player's
experience in a gaming environment. In an embodiment, feedback from
a player is referenced in configuration of a gaming environment
floor. Additionally, player preference data and other feedback may
be stored for analysis and creation of player-based and/or
floor-based profiles and/or templates. Furthermore, game and/or
performance data may be compared to floor content to determine
profiles, templates and/or recommendations for floor
reconfiguration, for example.
[0080] In an embodiment, game(s), gaming terminal(s), and/or gaming
environment(s) may be configured in an experimental or field trial
mode to demonstrate and/or test one or more games and/or features.
One or more games, gaming terminals, and/or gaming environments may
be programmed for special events and/or schedules. Game(s), gaming
terminal(s), and/or gaming environment(s) may be configured to
accept different fees and/or offer different payback/reward for
different games, gaming terminals, and/or gaming environments.
Criteria set by an operator and/or system may impact programming,
fees, and/or payback, for example. In an embodiment, portion(s) of
a gaming floor may be "locked down" or configuration restricted
based on a schedule, game(s) played, and/or operator input.
[0081] In an embodiment, the system 100 may be integrated and/or
associated with a casino management system, such as a progressive
management system. An example of a progressive management system is
described further in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/059,479,
filed on Feb. 16, 2005, which is herein incorporated by reference.
The casino manager facilities player tracking, slot accounting,
game configuration, and bonusing, for example, in the system 100.
The casino manager, such as an OASIS.TM. casino management system,
may also facilitate promotions, ticket generation, marketing,
reporting, crediting, and communication between players, gaming
employees, and the system 100, for example. The casino manager may
be used for game configuration and modification for gaming
terminals, for example. The casino manager helps to provide
centralized management of a gaming environment, such as one or more
casinos. Examples of gaming networks may be found in U.S. patent
application Ser. Nos. 10/938,351 (filed Sep. 10, 2004), 10/938,103
(filed Sep. 10 2004), and 10/935,514 (filed Sep. 7, 2004), which
are herein incorporated by reference.
[0082] A management system may allow authorized users to configure
games and/or progressive links/levels, including adding and
removing games and/or progressive links/levels, meters, and/or
setting jackpot reset amounts and rate of progression, for example.
Reports, such as accounting, diagnostic and administrative reports,
may also be generated. Information may be displayed at a remote
terminal, gaming terminal display, overhead display, and/or other
display, for example. One or more databases may be accessed to aid
in report generation, game configuration, and/or other system
adjustment, for example.
[0083] Additionally, a management system may facilitate player
tracking, slot accounting, game configuration, and bonusing, for
example, in a gaming environment. A gaming manager, such as an
OASIS.TM. casino management system, may also facilitate promotions,
ticket generation, marketing, reporting, crediting, and
communication between players, gaming employees, and the system
100, for example. The gaming manager may be used for game
configuration and modification for gaming terminals. The gaming
management system helps to provide centralized management of a
gaming environment, such as one or more casinos.
[0084] A gaming environment may operate using a multi-tiered
architecture that includes a number of software layers including
one or more applications, an application program interface (API),
and an operating system. The applications provide a number of
different services, including accounting services, player tracking
services, progressive game services, browsing services, cashless
play services, etc. The applications may be written in various
languages including, for example, C#, Java, or SQL. The operating
system, for example, is a Windows.RTM. brand operating system which
provides conventional functions.
[0085] Gaming terminals may be implemented, for example, as slot
machines, video poker machines, video roulette machines, and the
like. Gaming terminals may be located in a local gaming
environment, such as a casino, and/or a multi-site gaming
environment, such as a plurality of networked casinos. Gaming
terminals may be used to play a first game and/or multiple games
employing one or more rewards.
[0086] A gaming environment may include a progressive server or
other gaming server capable of storing input data for gaming
terminals and output data from gaming terminals in a central
database. In an embodiment, a central processing unit (CPU)
operates through a network interface and communication lines to
enable communication with local data processing units. Local data
processing units may be used to divide gaming terminals into
groups. Using a group-based architecture, transaction data from
each group of games may be temporarily stored in the data
processing units. The units may be structured so that the
processing units include sufficient capacity and speed to
accommodate data generated by the games. Therefore, system
performance may be improved and data integrity may be preserved in
the event of a network or server error.
[0087] Processing units may also be designed to store data from
database(s) that may be used by gaming terminals. Such data may be
readily available for use by the games even if networks are
disabled or if a server is disabled temporarily. As a result of
these features, a gaming facility may remain operational even if
some of its networks or a gaming server malfunctions.
[0088] In an embodiment, one or more progressive games or amounts
may be facilitated using one or more progressive links and/or one
more levels within one or more links. A progressive link includes
one or more gaming terminals contributing to one or more
progressive amounts eligible for a win on any of the linked gaming
terminal(s). A progressive link may include one or more levels or
accumulating amounts. The progressive links may be running at one
or more gaming environments, such as one or more casinos. One or
more banks of gaming terminals in one or more gaming environments
may be shut down for a variety of reasons. For example, terminal(s)
may be shut down permanently or temporarily inactivated due to time
of day, maintenance, time-limited bonusing, retiring a game or
terminal, reconfiguring a game or terminal, etc. A floor
configuration system may be used to manage and adjust one or more
progressive links and/or banks of gaming terminals.
[0089] In an embodiment, progressive games or other promotions may
be configured using a progressive server, slot management system,
remote device, such as a hand held device or off-site input device,
or other system, for example. In an embodiment, multiple
controllers may be connected to a suite of gaming products. For
example, a network of gaming systems may include progressive links
configured into tiered groups, such as single site, statewide,
interstate, and/or multinational groups. In an embodiment, if one
or more links or levels in a multi-site progressive is off-line,
players at gaming terminals on an off-line or disabled link may be
informed that the terminals are not currently participating ill the
progressive or may be disabled until the link is again functional.
Additionally, in an embodiment, participants in both gaming and
non-gaming activities may contribute to and/or win prizes from
progressive links. For example, promotions offered at restaurants
and theatres, as well as electronic gaming terminals connected to a
progressive link, may offer a chance to win a progressive
prize.
[0090] FIG. 3 illustrates a graphical user interface (GUI) 300
capable of configuring and managing a gaming floor in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention. The GUI 300 may work
in conjunction with a gaming floor configuration system, such as
the floor configuration manager 160. The GUI 300 depicts a
plurality of gaming terminals 305, such as electronic gaming
machines, available on the gaming floor. The gaming terminals are
organized in banks 310. The GUI 300 also depicts a plurality of
table games 330. Each gaming terminal is associated with one or
more indicators 320-321. Each bank 310 is associated with an
indicator 323. An identifier and game information are displayed for
each gaming terminal 305 on the GUI 300. Available games for
allocation are displayed in the game library 340. The GUI 300
further includes a menu/tool bar 350 providing a user with viewing,
editing and reporting options, for example. The GUI 300 further
includes a status bar 360.
[0091] The GUI 300 allows a user to view and modify games and
activity occurring on a gaming floor, such as a casino floor. The
GUI 300 includes one or more configuration controls to enable an
operator to download games to gaming terminals 305 and/or execute
other reconfigurations, for example. Using the GUI 300, an operator
may select among available games and enable games on one or more
gaming terminal 305 and/or banks 310 of gaming terminals 305. For
example, an authorized user may select among games available under
categories such as premium slots, hot slots, and traditional
favorites, at game library 340. Using the menu bar 350, the GUI 300
allows a user to download or make available new games and/or
provide additional credits to purchase/license games, for example.
The GUI 300 may be used to configure and/or select one or more
profiles for gaming floor layout and management, for example.
Reports may also be generated for the gaming floor using the GUI
300. Tournament play may be configured and/or monitored using the
GUI 300. The GUI 300 may be used to manage one or more gaming
environments and/or gaming floor layouts.
[0092] The GUI 300 may be implemented in a variety of ways. Instead
of and/or in addition to the embodiments described above, the GUI
300 may also be implemented in a menu-based format listing
available games, gaming terminals, configuration options, reporting
options, scheduling options, regulatory information, etc. For
example, a table of gaming terminals may be displayed for an
operator of a casino gaming floor. The table may display terminal
name or ID, terminal status, current game, denomination, maximum
lines, etc. Available game icons and/or names may also be provided.
A user may "click on" or otherwise select one or more gaming
terminals and a game to download and/or provide at the selected
terminal(s). A menu or set of options may then be presented to the
operator to configure the game (e.g., max lines, denomination,
etc.). In an embodiment, an email or other message may be sent to
the operator after the game has been downloaded and/or provided to
players at the gaming terminal(s).
[0093] Gaming terminals may be organized in one or more groups. A
terminal may belong to one or more groups. Games may be downloaded
and/or provided to one or more groups.
[0094] In certain embodiments, games may be downloaded to a gaming
terminal in the background as someone is playing a game at the
gaming terminal. At an appropriate time, the gaming terminal may
then switch to the new game. The operator may set conditions for a
switch or reconfiguration, and the system checks the conditions
between switching/reconfiguring the gaming terminal.
[0095] The GUI 300 may provide a scheduling engine allowing an
operator to schedule a task. A task involves a collection of steps,
such as download/make available to a terminal, download/make
available to a group, run a report, notify user, notify group, etc.
A schedule is a time or a repeating time to run the steps in the
task. Multiple steps and/or multiple tasks may be executed in a
schedule to automate reconfiguration and other actions.
[0096] In certain embodiments, the GUI 300 may also provide
regulatory information. For example, the GUI 300 may provide a list
or other display of executable code files on each component of the
system and information about the executable files. Information may
include name, build version, hash value, etc. A regulator may view
game and machine information via the display. In certain
embodiments, clicking on or otherwise selecting a gaming terminal
provides the operator with current properties of the terminal, such
as hash value, IP address, game, max lines, max bet, payout, value
per coin, value per credit, download history, upcoming downloads,
MAC address, machine status, machine ID, activation time, machine
lock, etc. In certain embodiments, an operator may calculate a new
hash value for an executable file at a gaming terminal via the GUI
300.
[0097] The GUI 300 may also provide an operator with reporting
capability. For example, the system may generate an audit trail,
download and/or other game play history, user access, user groups,
machine listing, parameter listing, etc. An operator may also
manage users and/or groups accessing the GUI 300 system. One or
more users may be assigned to one or more groups, and permissions
may be assigned to users and/or groups.
[0098] FIG. 4 depicts an example of a profile management interface
400 used in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
The profile management interface 400 may be accessed from a menu or
button in the GUI 300, for example. The interface 400 provides a
list of profiles and allows an authorized user to add, remove
and/or configure one or more profiles. A user may configure and
save a profile to define a layout of games and/or other
configuration information on a gaming floor. In an embodiment, the
profile interface 400 provides default as well as customizable
settings for one or more profiles. The interface 400 allows a user
to assign an identifier to a profile and select a date and time for
a floor profile configuration to begin. In an embodiment, the
interface 400 allows a user to set a recurring time for
implementation of a profile.
[0099] FIG. 5 shows a profile status list 500 used in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention. The profile status
list 500 identifies available profiles and a schedule status for
each of the profiles, as shown in FIG. 5.
[0100] FIG. 6 depicts a configuration options interface 600 used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The
interface 600 may be available to a user via a menu option in the
GUI 300, for example. The configuration interface 600 allows an
authorized user to configure a game for a gaming floor. A user may
configure a game denomination, a number of lines available for game
play, a maximum number of credits to be bet, and/or a game
variation percentage, for example. The interface 600 may allow an
operator to check whether sufficient credits remain on a user's
account to allow a game to be enabled at one or more gaming
terminals. In an embodiment, a banner message, such as "NEW" or
other advertisement, may be highlighted on a gaming display, such
as a primary or secondary display for a gaming terminal, using the
interface 600.
[0101] In an embodiment, a gaming display, such as a top LCD
display or "glass" and/or a bottom display or "glass" on a gaming
terminal, may be dynamically modified or configured to display
content, such as images and/or text. One or more displays may be
configured to display a primary game, a secondary game, one or more
pay tables, and/or text/graphics. For example, game art for a game
downloaded to an electronic gaming machine may be downloaded to a
top LCD display on that electronic gaming machine. Additionally,
progressive jackpot information from a linked progressive
controller may be displayed (and updated).
[0102] In an embodiment, one or more displays on a gaming terminal
may be touchscreen displays. The touchscreen may be used to display
help files or reference materials for perusal by a player, for
example. The touchscreen may also be used to facilitate voting or
feedback from players. In an embodiment, a touchscreen or
traditional display may be used to implement networked and/or
cooperative gaming. For example, a gaming terminal and display may
allow players to compete against each other and track each other's
current winnings on the display. Additionally, a gaming machine and
display may facilitate cooperative play wherein coin in or winnings
for multiple players are pooled and displayed in an attempt to win
a prize, for example.
[0103] An authorized operator may also configure preferences for
the GUI 300 using a preferences interface 700, as illustrated in
FIG. 7. The preferences interface 700 may be accessed using the GUI
300, for example. An operator may configure visual, deployment,
notification, setup, and/or other preferences, for example, using
the interface 700. For example, a user may configure what
information is to be displayed on the GUI 300 using the interface
700. A user may also configure how the information is displayed on
the GUI 300.
[0104] FIG. 8 illustrates a credit management interface 800 used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The credit
management interface 800 may be accessed using the GUI 300, for
example. As described above, an authorized user may download
additional credits to an account to pay for games and/or services.
The interface 800 allows an operator to view pricing options,
credit balance, and other information. An operator may purchase
additional credits for use with the GUI 300 or other system using
the credit management interface 800. In an embodiment, an operator
and/or gaming environment may apply one or more coupons from a
gaming supplier, machine supplier, and/or other vendor for free
and/or discount credits. FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a coupon
redemption.
[0105] FIG. 10 depicts a tournament setup interface 1000 used in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The
tournament setup interface 1000 may be accessed using the GUI 300,
for example. As described above, an operator may configure
tournament play using the system 100. The tournament interface 1000
and the GUI 300 allow an operator to configure tournament
parameters such as name, time, starting credits, and/or other
parameters.
[0106] In conjunction with configuration of a tournament,
tournament scheduling may be determined using an interface, such as
tournament scheduling interface 1100, illustrated in FIG. 11. The
tournament scheduling interface 1100 allows a tournament to start
as soon as possible (e.g., after currently-executing non-tournament
games on participating gaming terminals have been completed) and/or
at a certain scheduled time. The interface 1100 may also allow an
operator to schedule an ending time for a tournament.
[0107] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 12, the GUI 300 may present
an operator with tournament setup options, such as a game selected
for tournament play and assignment of players to gaming machines
(e.g., provide specific assignments of players to gaming machines
or allow players to use any gaming machine configured for the
tournament). Using a tournament options interface 1200, an operator
may configure a variety of options for game play of the tournament.
If players are assigned to specific machines, an interface, such as
the machine assignment interface 1300 shown in FIG. 13 or other
textual or graphical form, may be provided to allow an operator to
assign players to participating gaming machines. Alternatively, an
operator may highlight gaming terminal icons via the GUI 300 to
assign participating players to terminals. After a tournament has
been configured, a summary 1400 may be generated as shown in FIG.
14. The summary 1400 may be displayed for the operator and/or for
the players participating in the tournament, for example. In an
embodiment, tournament summary information and/or instructional
information may be displayed on an overhead display in a casino or
other gaming environment.
[0108] In operation, the GUI 300 may be used to manage certain
aspects of a gaming floor, such as a casino floor. The GUI 300 may
be used to control eligible gaming terminals and view table games
and both eligible and non-eligible gaming terminals on the gaming
floor. In an embodiment, only eligible gaming terminals (e.g.,
configurable electronic gaming machines) may be displayed on the
GUI 300. Eligible gaming terminals are capable of receiving
downloadable products or electronic configuration information, for
example.
[0109] The GUI 300 provides a graphical map of a gaming floor and
provides tools for an operator to maximize floor potential by
moving content around the floor. The GUI 300 may provide a
real-time, historical, and/or time-averaged view of the floor, for
example. Tools available via the GUI 300 allow an operator to
deliver content and analyze performance. An example of a graph
charting gaming machine performance is shown in FIG. 15. An
operator may track trends, aggregate data, and perform additional
analysis using the tools of the GUI 300. Preferences available in
the GUI 300 allow a user to configure view, data, analysis, etc. In
an embodiment, data obtained via the GUI 300 may be transmitted to
an accounting system for analysis. The GUI 300 may enable a user to
reconfigure gaming terminals 305, enable or disable gaming
terminals 305, and/or lock gaming terminals 305 to prevent
reconfiguration or download, for example.
[0110] Indicators 320, 321 may be associated with each gaming
terminal 305 on the GUI 300. In an embodiment, the indicator 320
represents a denomination of the gaming terminal 305 (e.g., a
darker indicator signals a higher denomination). In an embodiment,
the indicator 321 represents a status of the gaming terminal 305
(e.g., non-play, carded play, non-carded play, tournament play,
etc.). Indicator bands 322 are shown surrounding each bank 310 of
gaming terminals 305 on the GUI 300. The indicator bands 322
indicate performance of the bank 310 (e.g., red for bad, green for
good, and/or shades of red/green).
[0111] An authorized user may view the game library 340 to peruse a
list of available games and configure options for each game (lines,
denomination, etc.). Games may be grouped into collections, such as
premium slots, traditional favorites, and hot slots. An operator
may select one or more gaming terminals 305 or banks 310 of gaming
terminals 305 using a keyboard and/or pointing device (e.g., mouse,
trackball, touchpad, touch screen, stylus, etc.). The operator may
then select one or more games from the library 340 and configure or
provide (e.g., in a server based environment) the selected
terminal(s) 305 and/or bank(s) 310 for the selected game(s). The
software and/or hardware of the gaming terminal(s) 305 is made
available for the game(s). In an embodiment, the software and/or
hardware of a gaming terminal 305 may emulate different chipsets
based on content for display at the gaming terminal 305.
[0112] In an embodiment, the GUI 300 generates a message or alert
if a game is incompatible with a gaming terminal 305. The GUI 300
may prevent an incompatible download or may disable the game on the
gaming terminal 305 until the incompatibility is resolved. The GUI
300 may also generate status messages to information an operator of
a success, failure, and/or other status of a download attempt, for
example. The GUI 300 may also display other indicators to apprise
an operator of errors or status updates.
[0113] In an embodiment, the GUI 300 may also allow the operator to
check for additional games made available for download.
Alternatively, the GUI 300 may automatically check for game and/or
system updates and alert the operator. The GUI 300 may connect to
an external server or database to retrieve a game list. The
operator may access and download games on the list. An operator may
add games from the list to the game library 340. In an embodiment,
the operator may preview games prior to providing game(s) to the
library 340. In an embodiment, the GUI 300 may contact a plurality
of servers, media and/or databases to provide games from different
sources. In an embodiment, the GUI 300 may only display games
approved for a relevant jurisdiction. The GUI 300 may perform a
checksum or other error checking to verify that an approved product
has been downloaded to the library.
[0114] For example, FIG. 16 illustrates a new game query interface
1600 used in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. The interface 1600 may be used by an operator to search
for new games made available for download or server based play. New
game query interface 1600 allows a user to search for new games
based on one or more criteria. For example, a user may search based
on date, manufacturer (e.g., Aristocrat Technologies, Inc., etc.),
denomination (e.g., penny games, quarter games, dollar games,
multi-denominational games, etc.), number of lines (e.g., 3 line
games, 5 line games, 20 line games, etc.) and/or other criteria.
The interface 1600 may allow a user to preview games identified by
a search as well as review information regarding the game(s). A
user may add game(s) to a game library for the gaming environment
using the interface 1600.
[0115] The GUI 300 may display available licensing credits for a
property, operator and/or customer, for example. When a game is
applied to one or more gaming terminals 305, the GUI 300 displays
an associated cost and deducts the cost from the credit balance. If
a customer wishes to download a game but lacks sufficient credits,
the customer may order additional licensing credits directly online
or via telephone, as described above. The GUI 300 may provide a
rate schedule per credit, which may differ per customer. A customer
inputs a desired number of credits, an account is charged, and
credits are bought. In an embodiment, a customer may input a coupon
code for a discount or free credit purchase in general or for
specific game(s). Coupons may have an expiration date. The customer
may then proceed to download game(s) or other software.
[0116] In an embodiment, an operator may switch among a number of
licensed games for play at the gaming terminals 305. In an
embodiment, licensing may be associated with play of the game. For
example, licensing credits may be consumed as a game is played.
Thus, a frequently played game results in greater licensing cost,
while an infrequently played game results in little licensing
cost.
[0117] In an embodiment, other software and/or firmware updates may
be distributed to gaming terminals 305 via the GUI 300. Updates for
processing software, accounting or management software, and other
utilities may be provided to gaming terminals 305 or other
electronic systems. Software may be downloaded for execution at a
gaming environment or may be delivered via an application service
provider model. In an embodiment, customers may be billed based on
usage or a flat fee, for example.
[0118] In an embodiment, deployment of a game and/or other
reconfiguration of a gaming terminal 305 may be implemented
substantially in real-time and/or may be scheduled. Configuration
may be scheduled for gaming terminal 305 idle time or following a
certain interval (e.g., 5 minutes) of gaming terminal 305 idle
time, for example. Configuration may also be scheduled for a
particular date and time, for example. In an embodiment, a
recurring download schedule may be established. For example, a
first game may be scheduled for download to a gaming terminal 305
for play during weekdays, and a second game may be scheduled for
download to the gaming terminal 305 for play during weekends.
[0119] As described above, the GUI 300 may facilitate tournament
play on a gaming floor (or multiple gaming floors). In an
embodiment, special tournament versions of a game with a higher
return to player (RTP) may be downloaded to participating gaming
terminals 305 for tournament play. An operator may be able to
select from available tournament versions of games. Players may be
assigned to particular gaming terminals 305 or may check in using a
player card. An overhead display and/or gaming terminal display may
show information such as a leader board, time remaining, player
identification, tournament mode, celebration mode, etc. After a
tournament is complete, the participating gaming terminals 305 may
be configured to exit tournament mode and resume regular
operation.
[0120] A display associated or integrated with the gaming terminal
305 displays the primary game features for play of a game. For
example, the display may generate a conventional slot game in which
a plurality of symbols are moved within their respective column, as
if rotated, at the appropriate time in response to the user
activation of the gaming terminal. The gaming terminal 305 and/or
bank 310 may also include a secondary or other additional display.
The additional display may display player information, secondary
game information, supplemental information, promotional
information, etc. The GUI 300 may allow configuration of the
primary and secondary displays based on the game and configuration
at the gaming terminal 305 and/or bank 310. For example, the
primary display showing the game available for play changes when a
game is downloaded to the gaming terminal 305. The secondary
display advertising the game also changes when a game is downloaded
to the gaming terminal 305.
[0121] The GUI 300 may allow a user to select one or more items
displayed on the GUI 300 using a pointing device, for example. A
user may select items or groups of items for modification and/or
information retrieval. The GUI 300 provides a menu/tool bar and may
provide context-sensitive menus for a particular profile, property,
category, etc. A user may select a profile and/or property to
configure using the GUI 300. A user may manage multiple profiles
and/or properties using the GUI 300. The GUI 300 may allow "smart"
selection according to a criterion (e.g., all gaming terminals of a
certain type, all gaming terminals of a certain denomination, all
gaming terminals in a certain bank, etc.). Additionally, the GUI
300 may allow a user to select all inactive games, specify multiple
criteria for selection, select all gaming terminals having the same
configuration, all games performing poorly or well, etc. In an
embodiment, an operator may click on, highlight, or position a
cursor over an item, such as a gaming terminal 305 or game in the
library 340, on the GUI 300 to retrieve information, such as name,
licensing, regulatory notices, performance, etc., regarding the
item.
[0122] The GUI 300 may also provide an edit layout mode. In edit
layout mode, a tool bar allows an operator to draw architectural
elements on the graphical map of the floor in the GUI 300. An
operator may also add textual or graphical annotations to the map,
import graphics, move objects, etc. Thus, the GUI 300 provides an
improved tool to generate and change a floor map for a gaming
environment.
[0123] In an embodiment, the configurator system 100 detects an
addition of a gaming terminal 305 to the system network. The system
100 may inform an operator through the GUI 300 (e.g., a pop-up box,
icon or message) or other alert. Then operator may position a
gaming terminal icon on the floor map or the GUI 300 may
automatically generate an icon in position on the floor map. The
configurator 100 may provide game information, denomination
information, and other configuration information to the GUI 300.
The operator may configure the new gaming terminal using the GUI
300. In an embodiment, an icon or image displayed on GUI 300
representing a gaming terminal or other device may be selected by
an operator, such as by using a mouse or other pointing device. A
menu may appear via GUI 300 to allow an operator to select from a
variety of options available for the gaming terminal or other
device. Similarly, an operator may select a group or a plurality of
gaming terminals and/or other devices for configuration and/or
information retrieval. Additionally, the system 100 may detect a
removal of a gaming terminal from the network and inform the GUI
300 and/or an operator to delete the gaming terminal from the GUI
300 map.
[0124] In an embodiment, the GUI 300 facilitates creation of one or
more profiles. In profile mode, the GUI 300 allows a user to layout
a floor, save the layout, and schedule the layout to occur at a
certain date and time (and/or a recurring layout). A profile allows
an operator to reconfigure an entire floor or section of a floor.
In an embodiment, an operator may select a profile from a menu to
implement as soon as possible or based on a schedule. In an
embodiment, the GUI 300 allows an operator to manage multiple
properties and multiple floors within a property using one
interface. For example, a company may manage all of its casino
floors using one interface and one pool of licensing credits.
[0125] Thus, certain embodiments provide an improved system and
method for configuration of gaming terminals in a gaming
environment. Certain embodiments provide a system and method that
allow customization and dynamic modification by an operator.
Certain embodiments provide improved reconfiguration of gaming
terminals in gaming environment to offer a variety of games and/or
other options to players. Additionally, certain embodiments improve
security, regulation and reliability of gaming terminals and access
to games by players. Certain embodiments monitor game play, player
response, and configuration changes to affect configuration of a
gaming environment. Certain embodiments provide an improved player
experience through selectable games, feedback, and/or other
preferences, for example. Certain embodiments allow progressive,
mystery, bonusing and other gaming content to be added to gaming
terminals. Certain embodiments allow an operator to manage sign or
display content and configuration, as well as gaming terminal
software and firmware content and configuration. Thus, certain
embodiments allow adaptable control and configuration of a gaming
environment.
[0126] While the invention has been described with reference to one
or more preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will
understand that changes may be made and equivalents may be
substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In
addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular
step, structure, or material to the teachings of the invention
without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that
the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment
disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments
falling within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *